Following an Iranian missile barrage on Israel, at least 240 people were wounded, four seriously, with damage inflicted upon a major hospital and a Tel Aviv high-rise. Israel retaliated with strikes on Iran’s Arak heavy water reactor, prompting Russia to voice concern over the safety of its personnel at the Bushehr nuclear plant. An Israeli official claimed that approximately two-thirds of Iran’s ballistic missile launchers had been destroyed, while Iran launched over 450 missiles and 1,000 drones towards Israel. The conflict continues amidst escalating tensions and international calls for a ceasefire.
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The Finnish Parliament overwhelmingly approved (157-18) the withdrawal from the Ottawa Treaty banning anti-personnel landmines, enabling Finland to resume their use. Opposition came primarily from the Left Alliance (10 MPs), Greens (7 MPs), and one member of the ruling coalition. This decision follows similar actions by Baltic states and reflects Finland’s reassessment of its defense capabilities in a changing security environment. The next steps involve presidential confirmation and notification to the UN.
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Nippon Steel and U.S. Steel finalized their $15 billion merger, creating the world’s fourth-largest steelmaker. The deal, initially proposed in December 2023, faced significant delays due to national security concerns and political opposition from both the Biden and Trump administrations. To address these concerns, a “golden share” provision was added, granting the federal government oversight on key decisions. The merger combines Nippon Steel’s advanced technology with U.S. Steel’s market access, ultimately benefiting both companies.
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In a recent interview, Russian Ambassador Andrey Kelin confirmed approximately 600,000 Russian soldiers are currently engaged in the Ukraine conflict, a figure consistent with earlier Ukrainian estimates. Despite claiming monthly recruitment of 50-60,000 volunteers, Russia’s substantial troop losses, estimated by Ukraine at 217,440 since January 1, 2025, and independently verified, are straining the Russian economy. These high casualty rates, coupled with significant recruitment bonuses, are placing immense pressure on already sanctioned Russian finances, raising serious concerns about the long-term economic stability of the country.
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Driven by faulty intelligence and Israeli pressure, President Trump is on the brink of war with Iran, mirroring the disastrous Iraq War. This decision, despite widespread opposition and substantial risks, echoes Trump’s past criticisms of the Bush administration’s Iraq invasion. The conflict is predicated on false claims of imminent Iranian nuclear capability, contradicted by US intelligence agencies. Trump’s actions, including the withdrawal from the Iran nuclear deal and the assassination of a top Iranian general, have significantly escalated tensions and paved the way for this potential war.
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In response to Iran’s missile attacks on Israeli territory, which injured 137 civilians and soldiers, Defence Minister Katz declared that Iranian Supreme Leader Khamenei “cannot continue to exist.” This statement follows IDF retaliatory strikes on Iranian targets, including a purported nuclear facility, and escalating exchanges of fire. Katz subsequently ordered intensified attacks on Iranian strategic and government targets, reflecting a broad Israeli consensus to neutralize perceived Iranian threats. Despite international concern, neither side shows willingness to de-escalate, increasing the risk of wider regional conflict.
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Following the fatal shooting of Minnesota House Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman and her husband, their home was burglarized. The break-in, discovered Wednesday, involved forced entry through a rear window, though nothing appeared to be missing. Police are investigating the incident and seeking information from the public, while neighbors express outrage and sorrow over the desecration of the Hortmans’ home. Meanwhile, the suspect, Vance Boelter, is in custody, facing murder charges related to the Hortmans’ deaths and attacks on other state lawmakers.
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Following the release of an unsanctioned video on social media, Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard faced President Trump’s anger. The video, reflecting on the horrors of nuclear war, was interpreted by Trump as lobbying against potential U.S. involvement in the Israel-Iran conflict. This incident, coupled with Trump publicly siding with Israeli President Netanyahu over Gabbard’s congressional testimony regarding Iran’s nuclear capabilities, indicates a decline in Gabbard’s favor with the President. Furthermore, the White House reportedly considered eliminating Gabbard’s position, potentially merging her responsibilities with another agency.
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Three-year-old Claire Bell, missing since Sunday, was found alive and well near an Ontario highway on Wednesday. Public tips proved critical in locating her, leading police to expand the search into Ontario where a drone spotted her. The extensive search involved hundreds of officers, volunteers, and various resources from both Quebec and Ontario police forces. Claire’s mother, Rachel-Ella Todd, has been charged with child abandonment.
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Olabisi Onabanjo University in Nigeria is facing widespread condemnation for a policy requiring female students to undergo physical checks for bras before exams. A viral video depicts female staff touching students’ chests to enforce the dress code, which a student leader defended as maintaining a distraction-free environment, though acknowledging the need for alternative enforcement methods. Critics, including a human rights group, have condemned the practice as a violation of students’ rights and likened it to sexual assault. The university’s student union president stated the policy aims for a respectful environment, but is exploring alternative approaches to enforcing modesty guidelines.
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John Q. Hosedrinker