A violent attack occurred at a synagogue in Manchester on Yom Kippur, resulting in two fatalities and a suspect shot dead by police. The incident began with an attack on a security guard and involved a vehicle being driven at members of the public, with three others left seriously injured. Following the attack, authorities declared a “major incident” and a “marauding terror attack.” Law enforcement is currently investigating the incident and has urged anyone with relevant information or footage to come forward, as the Prime Minister has condemned the attack and additional police resources are being deployed.
Read More
Polish authorities are investigating a suspected Russian plot to carry out sabotage attacks using drones and disguised explosives. The probe, stemming from the detention of an agent allegedly working for Russia’s GRU, revealed instructions to bury and retrieve explosive-filled “sweetcorn” tins. Evidence suggests that these operations were planned not only in Poland but also in Lithuania and Germany, with similar tins discovered in Lithuania and drone components transported between the three countries. If convicted, the suspect could face a life sentence, with the investigation expected to conclude by year’s end.
Read More
The Royal Netherlands Air Force achieved its first confirmed combat kill with an F-35A fighter jet, downing a Russian drone. Tail number F-027 of the 313th Squadron was involved in the operation, which occurred during a sortie over Poland. The Dutch Ministry of Defense revealed an official photo showcasing the kill mark, a symbol of the successful downing. This marks a historic first for a NATO-operated fifth-generation F-35. The Dutch F-35s are stationed in Poland as part of NATO’s collective defense mission, which has already resulted in combat operations.
Read More
A general strike paralyzed Greece on Wednesday as unions protested new labor laws that would extend the workday to 13 hours, a move that has sparked widespread outrage. Thousands of workers across various sectors, including transport, healthcare, and education, participated in the 24-hour strike, disrupting services and taking to the streets in both Athens and Thessaloniki. The pro-business government’s proposal has been met with fierce opposition, with critics arguing that it will exacerbate existing issues such as low wages and a poor work-life balance. The proposed law is set to be passed this month despite concerns over worker rights, potential exploitation, and the long-term impacts on productivity and employee well-being.
Read More
Amidst escalating domestic fuel shortages, Russia is preparing to import gasoline from Asian countries like China, South Korea, and Singapore. These shortages are primarily caused by Ukrainian drone and missile strikes that have crippled almost 40% of Russia’s refining capacity. To facilitate imports, the government plans to lift import duties, provide subsidies, and potentially boost imports from Belarus. Further, the government is considering lifting a ban on a controversial octane-boosting additive, despite safety concerns, to increase fuel production.
Read More
As the offensive continues, Israel’s defense minister ordered remaining Gazan residents to evacuate, warning those who stay will be considered militants. At least 21 Palestinians were killed amid ongoing strikes, as Hamas considers a new proposal from President Trump. The plan requires Hamas to release hostages and disarm, with the promise of humanitarian aid and reconstruction, however, Hamas expressed concerns. With the intensified warfare, the International Committee of the Red Cross suspended operations in Gaza City, relocating staff.
Read More
The Canadian government has issued a warning to citizens with an “X” gender identifier on their passports, cautioning them about potential entry restrictions when travelling to the U.S. and other countries that do not recognize this identifier. This advisory follows U.S. President Donald Trump’s executive order restricting the recognition of gender to male or female on official documents. The notice advises that travelers may be asked to provide their sex/gender as male or female. This update is part of broader travel advisories aimed at informing Canadian travelers about potential challenges in the U.S., including those related to anti-2SLGBTQ+ laws.
Read More
Authorities in Germany arrested three individuals suspected of planning attacks on Israeli or Jewish institutions. The suspects, identified as Abed Al G., Wael F. M., and Ahmad I., are accused of procuring firearms, including an AK-47, since earlier this summer. Hamas has denied any connection to the individuals. The arrests coincide with Hamas’s consideration of a U.S. peace proposal and follow the ongoing conflict between Hamas and Israel.
Read More
Anti-government protests in Morocco, organized by a youth-led movement, have escalated into violence and destruction for a fifth straight night, particularly in areas with limited social services. Demonstrators, criticizing corruption and the prioritization of World Cup investments over public services, have clashed with authorities, leading to widespread arrests. The protests have spread, with reports of property damage and injuries in multiple cities across the country. Officials responded with arrests and warnings, but the movement continues to gain support, highlighting the deep-seated discontent over social and economic disparities.
Read More
French military forces have boarded the oil tanker Boracay, suspected of involvement in drone flights that led to the closure of Danish airports. The tanker, which has links to Russia and is part of the “shadow fleet,” was intercepted while carrying crude oil from Russia to India. Two crew members are in custody as French authorities investigate the vessel’s nationality and lack of cooperation, which follows drone sightings and incursions that have prompted European leaders to develop defenses against such threats. The incident has raised concerns of potential Russian involvement, resulting in the Danish prime minister declaring that Europe faces a “hybrid war.”
Read More
John Q. Hosedrinker