Lebanon accuses Israel of ‘deliberately killing’ Reuters journalist in complaint to UN
Telegraph
23-10-14 14:29
Lebanon has accused Israel of “deliberately killing” Reuters journalist, Issam Abdallah, and plans to submit a complaint to the UN Security Council. Abdallah, a Lebanese national, was killed in suspected Israeli shelling near the Lebanese border on Friday. Two other Reuters journalists were also injured in the same incident.
Thousands attend UK pro-Palestine marches as Gaza braces for invasion
The Independent
23-10-14 13:45
Thousands of people in the UK gathered for pro-Palestinian demonstrations over the weekend, amid growing international concern over the situation in Israel and Gaza. The largest gathering took place in London, where police warned in advance that anyone showing support for militant group Hamas could face arrest. More than 1,000 officers were deployed by the Metropolitan Police for the demonstration, while other rallies and protests were held across the country. The protests come as Palestinians began a mass exodus from northern Gaza following an Israeli military warning to evacuate ahead of an expected ground invasion.
UPDATE 1-IMF countries to boost funding by year-end, Israel-Gaza war weighs on outlook
Yahoo US
23-10-14 13:41
International Monetary Fund (IMF) countries have agreed to increase the fund's lending resources by the end of the year. The exact terms of the increase in funding have not been disclosed, but it is intended to ensure that the IMF can maintain global financial stability. The decision was made at a meeting of the IMF's steering committee, and the final wording of a statement is still being negotiated. IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva warned that the Israel-Gaza conflict is adding to global economic uncertainty, although it is too early to gauge the conflict's impact on the global economy.
Lebanon to file UN complaint, Israel investigating after Reuters videographer killed in shelling
CBC
23-10-14 13:06
The Israeli army is investigating an incident in southern Lebanon in which a Reuters journalist was killed. Issam Abdallah, a Lebanese national and visuals journalist, was killed on Friday while providing a live video signal for broadcasters near the village of Alma al-Shaab, close to the Israel border. A Reuters witness at the scene said he was struck by missiles fired from the direction of Israel. Lebanon's Foreign Ministry plans to submit a formal complaint to the UN Security Council on "Israel's deliberate killing" of Abdallah.
Starmer told Tories could sneak ‘shot in arm’ red wall by-election win
The Independent
23-10-14 13:05
The Tories believe they can win the by-election in Tamworth, which would give a huge boost to Rishi Sunak's slim general election hopes. Despite Labour's national poll lead, winning Tamworth would be a significant signal of their progress and their ability to hold onto key marginals in the Midlands. Polling experts suggest that Tamworth is a crucial contest for Labour's efforts to win a Commons majority and that a victory for the Tories would be a major boost for their campaign.
Israeli military preparing for 'significant ground operations'
Reuters
23-10-14 17:18
The Israeli military is preparing for a potential invasion of the Gaza Strip following a recent attack by Hamas gunmen. The military has stated that its forces are deployed across the country and are increasing operational readiness for potential ground operations.
Cricket World Cup: India rout Pakistan by 7 wickets
Deutsche Welle
23-10-14 17:06
India defeated Pakistan in a high-stakes match at the Cricket World Cup. Pakistan was bowled out for 191 runs, with Indian bowler Jasprit Bumrah taking two wickets. India then chased down the total in just over 30 overs, with captain Rohit Sharma scoring 86 runs. This win marks India's eighth consecutive World Cup victory over Pakistan. The match was marred by political controversy, as Pakistani fans and journalists were effectively banned from attending. Pakistan will look to bounce back in their next game against Australia, while India will face Bangladesh.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited Israeli infantrymen near the Gaza Strip and told them, "You ready for the next stage? The next stage is coming." The Israeli military announced that it was prepared for a "coordinated" air, ground, and naval offensive in Gaza. This comes after Hamas attackers breached Israeli defenses in a surprise attack last week. Netanyahu also visited destroyed homes in the kibbutzim of Be'eri and Kfar Aza. Palestinians in Gaza faced the choice of staying under strikes or fleeing under strikes, with thousands of Palestinians fleeing the north of the Gaza Strip in anticipation of a ground assault. Israel has been pounding the area with air strikes and has kept two roads open for people to escape.
Arthur hurt by absence of Pakistan fans in Ahmedabad
Reuters
23-10-14 17:04
Pakistan team director Mickey Arthur expressed his disappointment at the lack of Pakistani fans at the Narendra Modi Stadium during their match against India. The late unveiling of the tournament's schedule made it difficult for fans to plan their trip to India, and political tensions between the two countries further complicated matters. The Pakistan Cricket Board has asked the International Cricket Council (ICC) to resolve visa delays for their fans and media. Arthur felt that the tournament lacked the atmosphere of a global event and seemed more like a bilateral series hosted by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). Despite this, he did not use it as an excuse for Pakistan's loss and stated that the team remained focused on the game. Only a few Pakistani journalists were able to attend the match, and the ICC is working to resolve the visa issues.
Rohit praises India's versatile bowling attack after win over Pakistan
Reuters
23-10-14 17:02
India captain Rohit Sharma praised his bowling unit after their comprehensive seven-wicket victory over arch-rivals Pakistan in the World Cup. At one stage, Pakistan looked set to score over 300 runs, but India's bowlers staged a remarkable comeback to dismiss them for 191. Mohammed Siraj, Jasprit Bumrah, and Kuldeep Yadav were particularly impressive, taking two wickets each. Rohit stated that their bowling effort set up the game for India and emphasized the importance of each bowler doing their job. He also downplayed the significance of their unbeaten record against Pakistan, stating that they treat every game as an opportunity to play against quality opposition.
UPDATE 1-Russia asks UN Security Council to vote Monday on Israel, Gaza
Yahoo US
23-10-14 23:49
Russia has proposed a draft resolution to the United Nations Security Council, calling for a humanitarian ceasefire and condemning violence against civilians and acts of terrorism in the Israel-Hamas conflict. The draft resolution also calls for the release of hostages, humanitarian aid access, and the safe evacuation of civilians. The resolution does not directly name Hamas, but refers to Israel and the Palestinians. The vote on the resolution is expected to be scheduled for Monday.
UPDATE 1-Iran warns of 'far-reaching consequences' if Israel not stopped
Yahoo US
23-10-14 23:11
Iran has warned Israel that if its alleged "war crimes and genocide" are not stopped, the situation could spiral out of control with "far-reaching consequences." The warning came in a social media post, after Iran reportedly sent a message via the UN to Israel, saying it would have to respond if Israel carried out a ground offensive in the Gaza Strip. Israel has threatened retaliation against Hamas, after the Palestinian group attacked Israeli towns, killing 1,300 people.
Ireland’s 37 phases of agony define greatest World Cup heartbreak
The Independent
23-10-14 22:05
Ireland's Rugby World Cup quarter-final curse continued as they were defeated 28-24 by New Zealand. It was Ireland's eighth defeat in 10 quarter-finals. The team went 37 phases through a move that started in their own half but fell short of the try line and the match ended with New Zealand kicking the ball into touch. The result means that Ireland have still not won a knockout match at a World Cup. New Zealand will now face Argentina in the semi-finals. Despite this, Ireland's team has been hailed as the "greatest of all time", with some saying that they may still be the best team in the world. This is despite the fact that New Zealand lost a pool match in the World Cup, which was a first for a New Zealand coach. The coach will leave his role after the World Cup, but he still has a chance to win the tournament.
Annular solar eclipse transfixes crowds across the Americas
Reuters
23-10-14 21:22
On Saturday, thousands of people across the Americas witnessed an annular solar eclipse. This rare phenomenon occurs when the moon passes in front of the sun, creating the appearance of a "ring of fire" in the sky. The eclipse followed a path from the U.S. Pacific Northwest to the Atlantic Ocean, passing over parts of Mexico, Central America, Colombia, and Brazil. Spectators in the Mexican city of Campeche gathered to watch the moon glide across the sun, creating the image of a brilliant ring. One couple even chose the eclipse as the perfect moment to get engaged.
Mexico presses Israel to open humanitarian corridor to Gaza
Reuters
23-10-14 21:20
Mexican Foreign Minister Alicia Barcena has called on Israel to open a humanitarian corridor to allow people to leave Gaza. Mexico is currently working to repatriate its citizens from the area and has been in touch with the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for help. The appeal comes after the family of a Mexican aid worker with Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders) asked for assistance in getting her out. Mexico's foreign ministry has condemned the attacks by Hamas on Israel and President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador has expressed a desire for his country to remain neutral in the conflict. As of Thursday, hundreds of Mexican nationals were still waiting to leave Israel.
Australia's referendum failure could lead to more divisive politics, analysts say
Yahoo US
23-10-15 03:42
Australia's decision to reject the constitutional recognition of its Indigenous population could lead to more divisive politics, similar to Donald Trump's, at the next national election, some analysts have warned. The referendum result, which saw a majority of Australians vote against altering the constitution to create an Indigenous advisory body, has also led to calls for Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to focus on cost of living issues. The conservative opposition Liberal party opposed the referendum and is now expected to seek policies to take to the next election in 2025.
Australian voters' divisions, indifference doom Indigenous referendum
Yahoo US
23-10-15 03:30
The proposal for a permanent but non-voting "Indigenous Voice" in Australia's parliament has been overwhelmingly rejected in the country's first referendum in 25 years. The vote was defeated by misinformation, race-based suspicion and political indifference. Although the Labour Party's proposal was aligned with the Elders of the Indigenous community, it failed to gain support from the opposition party.
Australian Indigenous leaders call for 'week of silence' after referendum defeat
Nikkei Asia
23-10-15 02:02
Australian Indigenous leaders have called for a week of silence and reflection after a referendum to recognise First Peoples in the constitution was rejected by a majority of the population. Over 60% of Australians voted against the referendum, which asked whether to alter the constitution to create an Indigenous advisory body. The outcome is a setback for reconciliation efforts with the Indigenous community and for Australia's image regarding how it treats First Nations people. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island people make up 3.8% of the population but are not mentioned in the constitution and are the most disadvantaged group in the country.
WRAPUP 1-Gaza braces for Israeli ground assault, fears of conflict spreading grow
Yahoo US
23-10-15 01:08
The Israeli military is preparing for a ground assault on the Gaza Strip, as it retaliates against the Hamas militant group who stormed through Israeli towns, killing 1,300 people. The attack by Hamas was the worst assault on civilians in Israel's history. Israel has vowed to destroy Hamas. The country has subjected Gaza to its most intense bombardment ever, putting the enclave, which is home to 2.3 million Palestinians, under siege. Gaza authorities have said that more than 2,200 people have been killed, a quarter of them children, and nearly 10,000 wounded. One million people have reportedly left their homes. Iran has warned of "far-reaching consequences" if Israel's bombardment is not stopped. Both Hamas and Hezbollah are backed by Iran. The US and other world leaders have warned against any country broadening the conflict, and international organizations and aid groups have urged calm and pressed Israel to allow humanitarian assistance to get through. Meanwhile, Russia has asked the UN Security Council to vote on a draft resolution calling for a humanitarian ceasefire and condemning violence against civilians and all acts of terrorism.
Poland holds high-stakes election amid rows over democratic rule
Yahoo US
23-10-15 01:00
Poland votes tomorrow in a parliamentary election that the ruling nationalist Law and Justice (PiS) party hopes will earn it an unprecedented third term in office. PiS has cast the vote as a choice between security from unfettered migration and a creeping westernisation it sees as contrary to Poland's Catholic character. It has been accused of undermining democratic checks and balances using publicly owned media to push its own propaganda, stirring up homophobia and politicising the courts.
