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Pope Francis, recovering from pneumonia, made a brief appearance on Easter Sunday to bless thousands in St. Peter's Square. While he did not lead the mass, his voice sounded stronger, and he emphasized themes of love and forgiveness in his message. His health continues to improve, but he remains under medical advice to limit public engagements.
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Lebanese authorities are reopening the investigation into the 2021 murder of activist Lokman Slim, following a Court of Cassation ruling to transfer the case to a new judge. This decision comes after criticism of the previous judge's closure of the case without identifying suspects, amid ongoing concerns about judicial independence in Lebanon.
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Following a year of conflict with Israel, Hezbollah faces increasing pressure for disarmament from the U.S. and Lebanese authorities. The group's weakened state raises questions about its future and the potential for internal strife in Lebanon. Discussions are ongoing, but Hezbollah's stance remains firm against disarmament without significant incentives.
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Lebanese President Joseph Aoun emphasized the need for calm dialogue regarding Hezbollah's weapons, asserting that the state will eventually monopolize arms. His comments come amid rising tensions following Hezbollah's defiance against disarmament, highlighting the delicate balance between maintaining civil peace and addressing national security concerns.
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Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz announced that Israeli troops will remain in security zones in Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria indefinitely. This decision complicates ongoing ceasefire negotiations with Hamas, who demands a complete Israeli withdrawal in exchange for hostages. The situation has escalated tensions with neighboring countries and raised humanitarian concerns.
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Lebanese authorities have detained several individuals linked to planned rocket attacks on Israel, confiscating weapons in a raid near Sidon. This follows earlier arrests related to rocket fire that prompted Israeli airstrikes. President Aoun emphasizes the need for careful handling of disarming Hezbollah amid ongoing tensions.
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Bill Maher has publicly addressed Larry David's satirical New York Times essay that compared Maher's dinner with Donald Trump to dining with Adolf Hitler. Maher criticized the use of Hitler in the argument, asserting it diminishes the historical significance of the Holocaust. He emphasized his longstanding criticism of Trump and expressed hope for reconciliation with David.
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Israeli forces have conducted a ground incursion into southern Lebanon, targeting Hezbollah despite an ongoing ceasefire. Hezbollah's new leader, Naim Kassem, stated the group will not disarm while Israeli troops remain in Lebanon. The conflict has resulted in significant civilian casualties and ongoing tensions in the region.
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Pope Francis, recovering from pneumonia, did not preside over Easter Mass in Vatican City, delegating duties to Cardinal Angelo Comastri. Despite his absence, Easter services were held worldwide, symbolizing resilience amid ongoing conflicts, particularly in Ukraine and Lebanon, where congregations gathered in damaged churches.
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Pope Francis passed away at 88, initiating the Sede Vacante period. Cardinals are gathering in Rome to prepare for a conclave to elect his successor. The camerlengo, Cardinal Kevin Farrell, will oversee the transition, including the destruction of the Fisherman’s Ring and the organization of the funeral and conclave.
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Significant cuts to US foreign aid are jeopardizing health and nutrition programs worldwide, particularly in Yemen, Ethiopia, and Afghanistan. The World Food Programme warns that millions face severe food insecurity and malnutrition as funding freezes take effect, with dire consequences for vulnerable populations. The situation is exacerbated by the Trump administration's ongoing withdrawal from international aid commitments.
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Following a war with Israel that severely weakened Hezbollah, discussions on disarming the group are gaining momentum. Lebanese President Joseph Aoun aims for a state monopoly on arms, while Iran warns against external pressures. The situation remains delicate, with potential for civil conflict if handled improperly.
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On April 27, 2025, Israel conducted airstrikes in Beirut's southern suburbs, targeting Hezbollah facilities. The strikes followed evacuation warnings and have raised concerns about escalating violence in the region. Lebanese President Joseph Aoun condemned the attacks, urging international intervention to halt Israeli aggression.
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On April 27, 2025, Israel conducted an airstrike in the Dahiyeh neighborhood of Beirut, targeting Hezbollah missile storage sites. This action, despite a fragile ceasefire, has raised tensions, prompting calls from Lebanon's president for international intervention to halt Israeli strikes. No casualties were reported, but the strike generated panic among civilians.
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Israel has intensified its military support for the Druze community in Syria amid escalating sectarian violence, which has resulted in over 100 deaths. The IDF has evacuated injured Druze to Israeli hospitals and conducted airstrikes against threats to the community. Israeli Druze are demanding more action from their government to protect their Syrian counterparts.
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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reiterated calls for the complete dismantling of Iran's nuclear program, asserting that he is influencing U.S. negotiations with Tehran. This comes as U.S. and Iranian officials report progress in talks mediated by Oman, aimed at preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons while lifting sanctions.
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Lawyers for Abdulrahman al-Qaradawi, an Egyptian poet detained in the UAE, have filed a legal challenge in the UK. They allege his abduction, torture, and extradition from Lebanon, urging police to investigate under universal jurisdiction laws. Al-Qaradawi has been held in solitary confinement without charge for over 100 days.
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On May 8, 2025, Israeli air strikes targeted Hezbollah sites in southern Lebanon, resulting in one death and multiple injuries. This escalation follows a ceasefire established in November 2024, which has seen ongoing violations from both sides. Lebanese officials condemned the attacks, emphasizing the need for international intervention.
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Amnesty International's annual report claims Israel has committed genocide against Palestinians in Gaza, citing specific intent to destroy the population. Israel vehemently denies these accusations, asserting its actions are in self-defense against Hamas. The report highlights severe humanitarian crises and widespread civilian casualties since the conflict escalated in October 2023.
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Recent clashes in Syria's Druze-majority areas, particularly Jaramana and Sahnaya, have resulted in over 100 deaths, including security forces and civilians. The violence was triggered by an audio clip allegedly insulting the Prophet Muhammad, leading to widespread sectarian tensions. The Syrian government has vowed to hold those responsible accountable amid rising fears among minority groups.
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The Global Flourishing Study, conducted by researchers from Harvard and others, ranks countries based on broader well-being metrics. Indonesia tops the list, while Japan ranks lowest. The study emphasizes the importance of social relationships and community involvement over mere economic wealth. Findings were published in Nature Mental Health on May 1, 2025.
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Lebanon's military has intensified actions against Hamas following recent rocket attacks from its territory into Israel. The Higher Defence Council has warned Hamas against compromising national security, leading to the handover of suspects involved in the attacks. Israeli airstrikes have continued in response to these incidents, raising tensions in the region.
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The UAE will allow its citizens to travel to Lebanon starting May 7, 2025, following a diplomatic meeting between leaders of both nations. This decision ends a travel ban imposed in 2021 amid tensions over Hezbollah's influence in Lebanon.
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As the Catholic Church prepares for a new pope following the death of Pope Francis, voices from around the world express their hopes for the next pontiff. Young Catholics seek a leader who embodies mercy and unity, while marginalized communities desire inclusivity and support for the vulnerable.
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As tensions rise with the US under President Trump, Iran's rhetoric regarding its proxy forces in the Middle East appears to be softening. Recent statements from Iranian officials suggest a willingness to consider disarmament of groups like Hezbollah, though experts caution against interpreting this as a definitive policy shift.
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On May 5, 2025, the Lebanese Army raided a Captagon manufacturing plant near the Syrian border, seizing a large quantity of pills and production equipment. This operation is part of ongoing efforts to combat drug trafficking in the region, particularly linked to the Syrian civil war and its aftermath.
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On May 5, 2025, Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel dropped felony charges against seven protesters from a pro-Palestinian camp at the University of Michigan. Nessel cited a 'circus-like atmosphere' and ongoing criticism as factors in her decision, despite believing the cases were strong. The case had drawn national attention regarding free speech and bias allegations.
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Israel's government has approved an intensified military operation in Gaza, involving the displacement of most residents and a sustained military presence. International condemnation has followed, with calls for humanitarian aid as the humanitarian crisis deepens amid ongoing conflict.
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Turkey's National Intelligence Organisation intercepted 1,300 weaponized pagers intended for Hezbollah in Lebanon. The shipment, rigged with explosives, was seized at Istanbul Airport just days after deadly pager attacks in Lebanon. The operation highlights ongoing tensions in the region and Turkey's role in countering threats to its neighbors.
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As of May 19, 2025, the Gaza conflict has intensified, with over 61,700 reported deaths. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu has ruled out a ceasefire until Hamas is eliminated, complicating ongoing negotiations in Doha. International criticism mounts against Israel's humanitarian aid plan, deemed inadequate by several nations and organizations.
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Lebanon faces renewed pressure from the U.S. to disarm Hezbollah, complicating its internal security dynamics. The U.S. approach risks igniting tensions with the Shia community, which views Hezbollah as a protector. Meanwhile, Israel escalates military actions in Syria, targeting the new Syrian leadership, raising concerns about regional stability.
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The UN peacekeeping force in southern Lebanon has protested against Israeli military fire at its positions, marking the first such incident since a ceasefire with Hezbollah began on November 27, 2024. UNIFIL reported multiple aggressive actions by the Israeli Defence Forces, raising concerns about the safety of peacekeepers in the region.
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The Trump administration's cuts to USAID have drastically reduced foreign aid, impacting vulnerable populations in Nigeria. Over 90% of USAID contracts were slashed, leading to severe malnutrition among children in Borno state, where humanitarian programs are collapsing.
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Despite a ceasefire agreement, Israel has conducted multiple airstrikes in southern Lebanon targeting Hezbollah operatives. Recent strikes have resulted in casualties and heightened tensions, with Lebanon's government calling for international intervention to halt Israeli actions. The situation remains volatile as both sides navigate the aftermath of a prolonged conflict.
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President Trump has announced the Golden Dome missile defense initiative, a $175 billion project aimed at countering long-range and hypersonic missile threats. The system, inspired by Israel's Iron Dome, will include space-based interceptors and is expected to be operational by 2029, despite skepticism about its timeline and budget.
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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has accused UK, French, and Canadian leaders of emboldening Hamas by demanding an end to Israel's military actions in Gaza. His comments follow the shooting of two Israeli diplomats in Washington, which he linked to international criticism of Israel's humanitarian blockade. The situation remains tense as humanitarian aid access is debated.
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On May 21, 2025, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas announced a joint commitment to disarm Palestinian factions in Lebanon's refugee camps. This agreement aims to enhance security and stability following recent conflicts, including the Israel-Hezbollah war. A timetable for disarmament is expected to be established soon.
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As of May 30, 2025, Israel has ordered the closure of Al-Awda Hospital, the last operational healthcare facility in northern Gaza, amid ongoing military operations. This has exacerbated the humanitarian crisis, with over 54,000 Palestinians reported dead since the conflict escalated in October 2023. International calls for humanitarian aid are intensifying.
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Lebanon's recent municipal elections, held on May 24, 2025, tested Hezbollah's popularity post-war with Israel. Despite significant challenges, including low voter turnout and ongoing reconstruction issues, Hezbollah and its ally Amal secured many uncontested victories, indicating their continued influence in Shia regions.
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Reports reveal that Israeli soldiers are allegedly forcing Palestinians to act as human shields during military operations in Gaza. This practice, described by multiple sources, has reportedly become widespread over the past 19 months of conflict, raising serious human rights concerns.
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As of May 30, 2025, negotiations for a ceasefire in Gaza remain unresolved. The Trump administration's envoy, Steve Witkoff, submitted a proposal to Hamas, which they claim does not meet their demands. Israeli officials have not confirmed acceptance of the proposal, and fighting continues, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
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As ceasefire negotiations continue, a proposed 60-day truce has received mixed reactions. Hamas is consulting with factions over the U.S.-backed plan, which includes a prisoner exchange. Meanwhile, violence persists, with significant casualties reported in Gaza, raising concerns over the humanitarian crisis.
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Elizabeth Tsurkov, a 38-year-old Israeli-Russian scholar, has been held captive in Iraq since March 2023. Negotiations for her release are ongoing, with reports of a potential exchange involving Iranian detainees. Her family remains hopeful despite the complexities of the situation as she marks 800 days in captivity.
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Israel's refusal to allow a delegation of Arab foreign ministers, including Saudi Arabia's top diplomat, to meet Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas in the West Bank has raised tensions. The visit aimed to support Palestinian statehood discussions ahead of an international conference in June. Saudi officials condemned Israel's actions as a rejection of peace efforts.
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As Gaza faces severe humanitarian crises, ceasefire negotiations continue between Israel and Hamas. US envoy Steve Witkoff's proposal remains under review by Hamas, while Israeli officials assert that failure to comply could lead to further military action. The situation on the ground is dire, with famine warnings from the UN and ongoing violence.
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On June 6, 2025, the Lebanese army condemned Israeli airstrikes on Beirut's southern suburbs, warning that such actions could undermine its role in monitoring the ceasefire with Hezbollah. The strikes targeted buildings allegedly used for drone production, escalating tensions ahead of Eid al-Adha.
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On June 5, 2025, Israel launched airstrikes on southern Beirut, targeting alleged Hezbollah drone facilities. This attack follows a series of violations of a ceasefire agreement established in November 2023, leading to widespread evacuations and condemnation from Lebanese officials. The situation escalates as tensions rise ahead of the Eid al-Adha holiday.
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Oghenochuko Ojiri, a 53-year-old art dealer, was sentenced to 30 months in prison for selling artworks worth £140,000 to Nazem Ahmad, a suspected Hezbollah financier. This marks a significant legal precedent as Ojiri is the first to be convicted under the Terrorism Act for failing to disclose information about such transactions.