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Category: World

Qatar’s Emir Accuses Israel of Undermining Gaza Truce Talks at UN

Qatar’s Emir Accuses Israel of Undermining Gaza Truce Talks at UN

Fola Badmus06 mins

Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani has sharply condemned Israel for a “treacherous attack” on Hamas leaders in Doha, accusing it of derailing ceasefire efforts and violating international norms during his address to the United Nations General Assembly on Tuesday. The emir warned that the September 9 attack “undermines any diplomatic efforts aimed at ending the genocide against the people in Gaza” and said it demonstrated that Israel has become a “rogue” state. The strike, which targeted Hamas officials in Qatar’s capital while they were meeting to discuss a ceasefire proposal brokered by the United States, was described by Doha as “state terrorism.” Although top Hamas leaders survived, six people were killed in what was seen as an unprecedented escalation. The attack took place in a residential neighborhood near diplomatic missions and schools. Qatar, a key mediator in the Gaza negotiations, said the bombing amounted to a political assassination. The emir said, “It is difficult to cooperate with such a mentality that does not respect the most minimum standards of cooperation,” adding that Israel simultaneously “negotiates with delegations” while plotting to assassinate members of negotiation teams. He accused Israel of attempting to render Gaza unlivable, “where no one can study or receive treatment.” Labeling Israel as a state “engaged in genocide,” Sheikh Tamim criticized it for branding all critics as either antisemitic or terrorists, a tactic he said “even Israel’s allies realise … and reject.” Drawing parallels to past global struggles, the emir likened the growing solidarity with Palestinians to the global movement against apartheid in the 20th century. His remarks came amid growing international backlash over the war in Gaza, where more than 65,000 Palestinians have been killed since Israel’s military campaign began in October 2023. Speaking earlier on the same day, U.S. President Donald Trump called for the war to stop “immediately,” while Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said silence in the face of the war amounted to complicity in “barbarity.” Jordan’s King Abdullah II described the Gaza war as “one of the darkest moments in this institution’s history,” urging world leaders to move beyond repeated condemnations and toward concrete action. “How long will we be satisfied with condemnation after condemnation without concrete action?” he asked. France and Saudi Arabia jointly convened dozens of leaders earlier this week to revive talks on a two-state solution, while several European nations—including France, Belgium, Malta, and Luxembourg—formally recognized Palestinian statehood. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres also spoke, defending international human rights standards and referencing a landmark UN Human Rights Council report that found Israel’s actions in Gaza constitute genocide. The U.S. and Israel have both rejected the report. Guterres stated, “We must choose human dignity and human rights. Human rights are not an ornament of peace, they are its bedrock.” He emphasized that respecting rights must go beyond rhetoric, calling for “justice over silence.” Sheikh Tamim concluded his speech by tying the September 9 attack to broader violations of the international order, warning that tolerating such behavior would erode global norms. “These rules are based on the maintenance of international peace and security and the respect for human dignity and state sovereignty,” he said. “If we allow violations to continue, it means allowing the rule of the jungle, where perpetrators and violators enjoy benefits just because they can.”

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Trump Says Ukraine Can Reclaim All Territory from Russia

In Major Policy Shift, Trump Says Ukraine Can Reclaim All Territory from Russia

Fola Badmus06 mins

In a dramatic change of stance, U.S. President Donald Trump has declared that Ukraine can recover all of its territory seized by Russia since the 2022 invasion — a departure from his previous suggestions that both sides would need to compromise to end the war. Trump made the statement in a post on his Truth Social platform following a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly. “With time, patience, and the financial support of Europe and NATO, returning to Ukraine’s original borders is very much an option,” Trump wrote. The statement marks a significant reversal from Trump’s earlier position, in which he suggested both Kyiv and Moscow would need to cede land to secure peace. That approach had been sharply rejected by Zelenskyy and most of Europe’s leaders. Criticism of Russia and Praise for Ukraine Trump appeared to take aim at Russia’s military effectiveness, stating that the war had been fought “aimlessly,” and claiming a “real military power” would have won in less than a week. He also called Russia a “paper tiger,” adding that President Vladimir Putin and the Russian economy are in “big trouble,” and urged Ukraine to take advantage of the moment. Despite previous skepticism about Ukraine’s chances and a public clash with Zelenskyy earlier this year, Trump struck a more supportive tone this week. “I have great respect for the fight that Ukraine is putting up. It’s pretty amazing, actually,” he said after the meeting. Zelenskyy: Trump Could Be a ‘Game-Changer’ Zelenskyy thanked Trump for what he called his “personal efforts to stop this war” and said the two had discussed post-war security guarantees for Ukraine. “We all understand that President Trump is ready to give Ukraine security guarantees after this war is finished,” Zelenskyy told reporters, adding that Trump’s leadership could be a “game-changer” in the conflict. Trump had previously opposed Ukraine’s membership in NATO and had insisted that Europe should play a larger role in arming Kyiv. But since taking office in January, he has positioned himself as a potential broker of peace — even promising during his campaign to end the war within 24 hours of becoming president. From Diplomacy to Deterrence Trump’s comments come amid rising tensions between Russia and NATO. When asked if NATO allies should shoot down Russian aircraft violating their airspace, Trump responded, “Yes, I do,” signaling support for a more assertive military posture. Earlier this week, Russian MiG-31 fighter jets violated Estonian airspace for 12 minutes, prompting Estonia to call for an emergency UN Security Council meeting and to consult NATO allies. Similar incidents involving Russian drones have been reported by Poland. NATO issued a firm warning Tuesday, pledging to use “all necessary military and nonmilitary tools” to defend member states and calling the airspace breaches “a pattern of increasingly irresponsible behaviour” by Moscow. Uncertainty Remains Around Putin Asked whether he still considered Putin a reliable negotiating partner, Trump was vague. “I’ll let you know in about a month from now, OK?” he said. Trump has frequently delayed decisions related to sanctions or new steps against Moscow, often citing personal diplomacy as a better path forward. Backdrop: A War in Stalemate Since the start of the full-scale invasion in February 2022, Russia has seized nearly 20% of Ukraine’s territory, including Crimea, which it annexed in 2014. The war has become Europe’s deadliest conflict since World War II, with both sides locked in a prolonged and grinding battle. Trump’s newly declared support for Ukraine’s full territorial recovery introduces a major shift in the U.S. position and could realign Western diplomatic and military strategies — depending on whether the administration backs rhetoric with action.

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Taliban Bans Books by Women and Women-Focused Subjects from Afghan Universities Amid Broader Crackdown

Fola Badmus02 mins

The Taliban government has banned books written by women from Afghan university curricula, as part of sweeping new restrictions that also outlaw the teaching of human rights and sexual harassment. Out of 680 titles flagged as “anti-Sharia,” 140 were authored by women, including science texts like Safety in the Chemical Laboratory. Eighteen subjects have also been removed from university programs — six of them focused specifically on women, including Gender Studies and Women’s Sociology. A Taliban official stated these subjects conflict with “Sharia principles and government policy.” The move follows other recent bans, including one on fibre-optic internet in 10 provinces, aimed at curbing “immorality.” Women and girls remain disproportionately affected. They are already barred from schooling beyond sixth grade, and midwifery programs — one of the few remaining education options for women — were closed in late 2024. Former deputy justice minister Zakia Adeli, whose book was banned, said the move reflects the Taliban’s deep-rooted misogyny: “When women aren’t allowed to study, it’s no surprise their writings are also suppressed.” The ban also targets Iranian authors and publishers, reportedly to curb “Iranian influence” in Afghan education. Of the 679 banned books, 310 are linked to Iran. Professors warn the restrictions will isolate Afghan academia. One university lecturer said the banned books had been a key connection to global scholarship: “Their removal creates a substantial void in higher education.” Under the new guidelines, faculty must now create their own textbooks — but whether they can meet international academic standards remains uncertain.

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Canada and Australia Join UK in Recognising Palestinian Statehood

Canada and Australia Join UK in Recognising Palestinian Statehood

Fola Badmus07 mins

Coordinated move comes ahead of the UN General Assembly, as global support for a two-state solution gains momentum. By Kamal Yalwa | Published September 21, 2025 Canada and Australia have officially recognised the State of Palestine, joining the United Kingdom in a coordinated diplomatic move aimed at reviving efforts toward a two-state solution in the Middle East. The announcement comes just days ahead of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, as international pressure mounts over Israel’s ongoing war in Gaza and continued settlement expansion in the occupied West Bank. In a formal statement, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney declared Canada’s recognition of Palestinian statehood, stating: “Canada recognises the State of Palestine and offers our partnership in building the promise of a peaceful future for both the State of Palestine and the State of Israel.” Carney also condemned the Israeli government’s ongoing actions, accusing it of working “methodically to prevent the prospect of a Palestinian state from ever being established.” He clarified that this recognition supports peaceful coexistence and strengthens moderate voices within the Palestinian Authority, not extremist factions: “This in no way legitimises terrorism, nor is it any reward for it. Recognising Palestine empowers those seeking peace and the end of Hamas.” Carney also revealed that the Palestinian Authority had made direct commitments to Canada, including pledges to reform its governance, hold democratic elections next year—excluding Hamas—and begin demilitarisation efforts. Australia Echoes Canada’s Move Shortly after Canada’s announcement, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese also confirmed his country’s formal recognition of Palestine. In a joint statement with Foreign Minister Penny Wong, Albanese said the decision was made in coordination with Canada and the UK. The statement called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages, while stressing that Hamas “must have no role in Palestine’s future.” UK Adds Diplomatic Weight UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who had already signalled support for Palestinian statehood earlier this year, formally confirmed Britain’s recognition following the announcements from Ottawa and Canberra. “This move revives hope for peace for both Palestinians and Israelis, and reaffirms our commitment to a two-state solution,” Starmer said. Growing Global Shift The coordinated move from Canada, Australia, and the UK—three longstanding allies of Israel—marks a significant shift in the international approach to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The recognition follows months of escalating violence in Gaza, where over 65,200 Palestinians have been killed according to local health authorities. Israel has faced increasing international isolation, with mounting criticism from both governments and civil society groups. At a protest in Toronto on September 20, thousands marched against Prime Minister Carney’s domestic policies and in support of Palestinian rights, reflecting the growing public pressure shaping foreign policy in Western democracies. Meanwhile, Israel and the United States have warned that recognising Palestinian statehood amid ongoing conflict “rewards terrorism,” arguing it legitimises Hamas. Israeli opposition leader Benny Gantz criticised the announcements, claiming they embolden Hamas and undermine hostage negotiations: “If you truly want peace in the Middle East, Western leaders must focus on applying pressure on Hamas—not legitimising them through premature recognition,” Gantz posted on social media. Recognition Gains but UN Status Still Stalled So far, 147 of 193 UN member states have recognised the State of Palestine. However, this symbolic recognition does not translate into full UN membership, which requires approval from the Security Council—a move currently blocked by the United States’ veto power. Still, momentum is building. France and several other nations are expected to follow suit during the UN General Assembly. Some Western countries have also begun imposing sanctions on Israel or threatening diplomatic boycotts. Notably, nations like Spain, Ireland, and the Netherlands have pledged to withdraw from the Eurovision Song Contest if Israel participates next year. Even Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recently acknowledged the shifting global stance, admitting that Israel is experiencing a form of international isolation and will need to adapt its economy accordingly.

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UK to Recognize Palestinian State Today

Fola Badmus02 mins

The United Kingdom is expected to formally recognize a Palestinian state later today, British officials said, after Israel failed to meet key conditions laid out by Prime Minister Keir Starmer. These conditions included agreeing to a ceasefire in Gaza, allowing humanitarian aid into the enclave, ending measures toward annexing territory in the West Bank, and recommitting to a two‑state peace process. Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy clarified that recognition would be largely symbolic and would not result in the immediate establishment of a sovereign state. The move is intended to preserve the prospects for a two‑state solution. The decision comes amid growing international pressure on Israel over its military operations in Gaza and concerns about worsening humanitarian conditions. Canada, France, and Portugal are among other Western nations preparing to recognize Palestinian statehood in alignment with the UN General Assembly later this week. Israel has criticized these recognition efforts, arguing that they amount to rewarding terrorism. Families of Israeli hostages have also expressed strong opposition to what they view as diplomatic moves that may undermine efforts to secure the hostages’ release.

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Beijing moves to curb commercialization of faith and reassert Communist Party control over spiritual life

China Bans Online Preaching and AI in Major Crackdown on Digital Religion

Fola Badmus06 mins

Beijing moves to curb commercialization of faith and reassert Communist Party control over spiritual life China has rolled out sweeping new restrictions on religious expression online, banning unlicensed digital preaching and the use of artificial intelligence to produce religious content. The move is part of a broader campaign by the Chinese Communist Party to clamp down on the commercialization of religion and ensure religious activities remain firmly under state control. The crackdown, introduced by the National Religious Affairs Administration, prohibits most forms of online religious engagement unless carried out by state-licensed religious institutions. This includes bans on livestreamed sermons, short religious videos, paid digital rituals such as online chanting or incense offerings, and AI-generated religious teachings. Authorities cited the need to combat the spread of “illegal information,” online fortune-telling, and “heretical cults” as key reasons for the policy. The tightening of online regulations comes amid rapid growth in what some analysts have dubbed China’s “temple economy,” estimated to be worth over $14 billion annually. Religious revival in the country—despite formal restrictions—has led to a boom in temple tourism, e-commerce sales of religious items, and digital spiritual services. While only about 10% of the population formally identifies with a religion, surveys suggest up to 40% of Chinese people believe in deities, spirits, or ghosts. The blending of faith and commerce has sparked criticism that religious practice is becoming overly commodified and detached from its spiritual roots. The timing of the new restrictions follows the public scandal surrounding Shi Yongxin, abbot of the iconic Shaolin Temple, who is currently under investigation for alleged financial misconduct and behavior deemed inconsistent with Buddhist teachings. Known as the “CEO monk” for his high-profile commercial ventures, Shi has been accused of turning the monastery into a profit-making enterprise. Several of his associates have reportedly been detained, and the case has become a flashpoint for debates about the blurred lines between religion, commerce, and state power in modern China. In response to the new measures, local religious bureaus across China have begun implementing compliance campaigns. In Sichuan province, officials have organized study sessions for Buddhist, Catholic, and Islamic leaders to reinforce the new rules. Religious organizations have been told to carry out internal “self-examinations,” and local authorities have pledged to “eliminate risks” posed by unregulated religious activity. Analysts view this as part of a broader ideological tightening under President Xi Jinping, whose administration has already conducted wide-ranging anti-corruption drives across government and the Communist Party. The current focus on religion reflects a desire to prevent religious leaders from accumulating social influence or wealth that might challenge the state’s authority. The new rules will significantly affect temples and clergy that have embraced digital platforms. At Mount Qingcheng, a Taoist sacred site in Sichuan, monks had begun livestreaming services and selling religious merchandise on Douyin (China’s TikTok), with some items priced over $1,400. Such practices have drawn both fascination and criticism on social media, where users mockingly described monks as luxury tourists. While the latest crackdown may curtail these ventures, observers expect some religious groups to find workarounds, noting that similar campaigns in the past have lost momentum after a few months. Ultimately, the latest restrictions highlight Beijing’s intent to keep religion subordinate to the state. According to Ian Johnson, author of The Souls of China, the policy is less about eliminating faith and more about controlling it. “Religion may flourish, temples may profit, and millions may worship,” he said. “But only on terms acceptable to the Communist Party.” As China balances economic development, political stability, and spiritual expression, the message remains clear: religious freedom exists—but only within limits drawn by the state.

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Israeli Bombing Kills Over 90 Palestinians as Gaza City Nears Collapse

Israeli Bombing Kills Over 90 Palestinians as Gaza City Nears Collapse

Fola Badmus03 mins

By Kamal Yalwa Published: September 20, 2025 At least 91 Palestinians have been killed across the Gaza Strip since dawn on Saturday, with Gaza City bearing the brunt of ongoing Israeli airstrikes. Medical sources told Al Jazeera that 76 of the deaths occurred in the city alone, where the Israeli military continues an intense bombing campaign. The densely populated coastal enclave has been under siege for weeks, with Israeli forces attempting to forcibly evacuate Gaza City’s residents. According to Gaza Civil Defence, around 450,000 people—half of the city’s population—have fled since Israel announced plans to capture and occupy the area in August. In one of the deadliest incidents of the day, six people were killed in an Israeli drone strike on the Tuffah neighbourhood. Another attack on the Shati refugee camp in western Gaza City killed at least five people, including two young girls, according to ambulance sources. The Israeli military claims to have demolished up to 20 residential towers in Gaza City over the past two weeks as part of its ongoing operation. The strikes have turned once-crowded neighbourhoods into rubble-strewn wastelands. Al Jazeera correspondent Hind Khoudary, reporting from central Gaza, described scenes of panic and chaos as civilians attempted to flee. She said Israeli quadcopters were targeting evacuees, using explosives that residents likened to “earthquakes” with every detonation. Meanwhile, Hamas on Saturday released what it called a “farewell picture” of 48 Israeli captives still held in Gaza. The group has warned that intensified Israeli attacks could further endanger the hostages’ lives, with several reportedly already killed by Israeli airstrikes. Hamas claims the captives are “scattered throughout the neighbourhoods” of Gaza City, making their rescue increasingly complicated amid ongoing bombardment and military operations. The humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate rapidly, as large-scale displacement, crumbling infrastructure, and mounting casualties fuel concerns of an even deeper crisis ahead.

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Five Key Takeaways from Trump-Starmer Meeting in the UK Aylesbury, UK – September 18, 2025 — U.S. President Donald Trump and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer presented a united front on major global issues during a joint press conference at Chequers, wrapping up Trump’s three-day visit to the United Kingdom. Despite recent tensions between Washington and European allies, the meeting underscored strong transatlantic ties as the two leaders discussed Ukraine, NATO, Gaza, Afghanistan, and more. 1. Trump Says Putin ‘Let Him Down’ Over Ukraine President Trump expressed frustration with Russian President Vladimir Putin over the prolonged war in Ukraine, admitting he underestimated the challenge of resolving the conflict. “I thought it would be easiest because of my relationship with President Putin, but he’s let me down,” Trump said. PM Starmer reiterated the UK’s commitment to supporting Ukraine, vowing to increase pressure on Russia and push for a lasting peace deal. 2. Divergence on Gaza, But Unity Against Hamas While both leaders condemned Hamas’s October 7, 2023 attack on Israel, they differed on the broader approach to the Gaza conflict. Trump avoided criticizing Israel’s ongoing military campaign, which has killed over 65,000 Palestinians, calling October 7 “one of the worst days in the history of humanity.” Starmer's previous pledge to recognize a Palestinian state was noted as a “point of disagreement,” but Trump praised the UK leader’s strong stance against Hamas. 3. Trump Praises NATO and Increased Defense Spending Once a vocal NATO critic, Trump struck a different tone, applauding the alliance’s commitment to boost defense spending. “I want to thank NATO and our wonderful head of NATO, Mark [Rutte]… They’ve done a great job,” he said, highlighting a new pledge for members to spend 5% of GDP on defense. Trump emphasized U.S. support in supplying weapons to NATO allies, stressing that the alliance was now “paying its fair share.” 4. Bagram Airbase Back in Focus Trump hinted at possible negotiations with the Taliban for the U.S. to regain access to the Bagram airbase in Afghanistan, which was vacated in 2021 during the Biden administration’s withdrawal. “We’re trying to get it back,” Trump said, citing its strategic location near China’s nuclear facilities. The Taliban, however, quickly dismissed the proposal, stating they welcome engagement with the U.S. but will not allow any foreign military presence. 5. Trump Weighs in on Kimmel Firing Trump also addressed the firing of late-night host Jimmy Kimmel by ABC, following political controversy over remarks involving conservative commentator Charlie Kirk. “Jimmy Kimmel was fired because he had bad ratings… He’s not a talented person,” Trump said, dismissing concerns about free speech and framing the firing as a business decision. Conclusion: The Trump-Starmer meeting reflected a broad effort to reinforce U.S.-UK ties amid ongoing global crises. While areas of disagreement remain, particularly on Middle East policy, both leaders signaled alignment on Ukraine, NATO, and global security cooperation.

Five Key Takeaways from Trump-Starmer Meeting in the UK

Fola Badmus05 mins

Aylesbury, UK – September 18, 2025 — U.S. President Donald Trump and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer presented a united front on major global issues during a joint press conference at Chequers, wrapping up Trump’s three-day visit to the United Kingdom. Despite recent tensions between Washington and European allies, the meeting underscored strong transatlantic ties as the two leaders discussed Ukraine, NATO, Gaza, Afghanistan, and more. 1. Trump Says Putin ‘Let Him Down’ Over UkrainePresident Trump expressed frustration with Russian President Vladimir Putin over the prolonged war in Ukraine, admitting he underestimated the challenge of resolving the conflict.“I thought it would be easiest because of my relationship with President Putin, but he’s let me down,” Trump said.PM Starmer reiterated the UK’s commitment to supporting Ukraine, vowing to increase pressure on Russia and push for a lasting peace deal. 2. Divergence on Gaza, But Unity Against HamasWhile both leaders condemned Hamas’s October 7, 2023 attack on Israel, they differed on the broader approach to the Gaza conflict.Trump avoided criticizing Israel’s ongoing military campaign, which has killed over 65,000 Palestinians, calling October 7 “one of the worst days in the history of humanity.”Starmer’s previous pledge to recognize a Palestinian state was noted as a “point of disagreement,” but Trump praised the UK leader’s strong stance against Hamas. 3. Trump Praises NATO and Increased Defense SpendingOnce a vocal NATO critic, Trump struck a different tone, applauding the alliance’s commitment to boost defense spending.“I want to thank NATO and our wonderful head of NATO, Mark [Rutte]… They’ve done a great job,” he said, highlighting a new pledge for members to spend 5% of GDP on defense.Trump emphasized U.S. support in supplying weapons to NATO allies, stressing that the alliance was now “paying its fair share.” 4. Bagram Airbase Back in FocusTrump hinted at possible negotiations with the Taliban for the U.S. to regain access to the Bagram airbase in Afghanistan, which was vacated in 2021 during the Biden administration’s withdrawal.“We’re trying to get it back,” Trump said, citing its strategic location near China’s nuclear facilities.The Taliban, however, quickly dismissed the proposal, stating they welcome engagement with the U.S. but will not allow any foreign military presence. 5. Trump Weighs in on Kimmel FiringTrump also addressed the firing of late-night host Jimmy Kimmel by ABC, following political controversy over remarks involving conservative commentator Charlie Kirk.“Jimmy Kimmel was fired because he had bad ratings… He’s not a talented person,” Trump said, dismissing concerns about free speech and framing the firing as a business decision. Conclusion:The Trump-Starmer meeting reflected a broad effort to reinforce U.S.-UK ties amid ongoing global crises. While areas of disagreement remain, particularly on Middle East policy, both leaders signaled alignment on Ukraine, NATO, and global security cooperation.

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