From grassroots to states, let women lead. Stability, hope and innovation will follow | Ellen Johnson Sirleaf and Sahle-Work Zewde

In a controversial speech at the United Nations, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared his intention to 'finish the job' in Gaza, dismissing the recent recognition of a Palestinian state by countries like the UK and France as 'insane.' This statement has sparked significant backlash, leading to delegates walking out during his address. The implications of Netanyahu's remarks are profound, as they highlight the ongoing tensions in the region and the challenges to peace efforts.

During a speech by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the United Nations General Assembly in New York, dozens of attendees walked out in protest. This incident highlights the growing tensions surrounding Netanyahu's policies and the international response to them, emphasizing the divide in opinions on Israel's actions and the broader implications for global diplomacy.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recently addressed the United Nations Assembly, emphasizing a hopeful future for the Middle East, particularly regarding Iran. He expressed confidence that the Iranian people will reclaim their freedom and work towards making their country great again. This statement is significant as it reflects a shift in regional dynamics and highlights the potential for positive change in Iran, which could impact stability and relations in the Middle East.

The UK government is planning to introduce digital IDs to enhance border security, a move that has sparked significant public backlash, with an online petition nearing 900,000 signatures opposing the initiative. Meanwhile, Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy condemned the ongoing conflict in Gaza as inhumane and unjustifiable during his address at the United Nations General Assembly in New York. This situation highlights the government's focus on security measures while facing criticism over its stance on international humanitarian issues.

In a significant crackdown on sextortion and romance scams, Interpol announced the arrest of 260 suspects across 14 African countries. This operation highlights the growing concern over online scams that exploit vulnerable individuals, and the coordinated effort to combat such crimes is a positive step towards ensuring safety and justice in the digital space.

A recent EU survey reveals that 70% of respondents support a fare-cutting rail fund, indicating a strong public desire for voter-friendly climate policies. While there is enthusiasm for sustainable transport, taxes on beef and flying are less favored, highlighting the challenges politicians face in implementing effective climate measures. This survey is significant as it reflects public sentiment on climate action and could influence future policy decisions aimed at addressing climate change while balancing voter concerns.

In a recent response to President Trump's UN speech, Michael Newman critiques US foreign policy in the Middle East and Africa, while Terry Hansen highlights Trump's neglect of climate responsibilities. Trump's assertion that European countries are 'going to hell' due to immigration raises questions about the impact of American policies on global issues. This discussion is crucial as it underscores the interconnectedness of international relations and the responsibilities of powerful nations in addressing global challenges.

Japan's recent decision to cut its cultural exchange program with Africa highlights the impact of misinformation and populist rhetoric on international relations. This program was designed to strengthen ties between Japan and African nations, fostering mutual understanding and collaboration. The abandonment of such initiatives not only affects cultural diplomacy but also reflects broader challenges in addressing false narratives that can undermine global partnerships.

The ongoing proxy war between the US and Russia is significantly impacting Africa, particularly in the Sahel region, where local populations are caught in the crossfire. This conflict, framed by anti-colonial rhetoric, highlights the dire consequences for Africans who are bearing the brunt of geopolitical tensions. Understanding this situation is crucial as it not only affects regional stability but also raises questions about the future of international relations and the well-being of African nations.

Former President Trump has called for an investigation into what he describes as a 'triple sabotage' incident at the United Nations General Assembly, highlighting the recent issues with a malfunctioning escalator. This demand for scrutiny reflects Trump's ongoing engagement with international affairs and his focus on accountability, even after his presidency. The situation raises questions about the operational integrity of such a significant global institution.

Donald Trump has caught Ukraine and NATO allies off guard with his unexpected remarks at the United Nations General Assembly, suggesting that he believes Kyiv can achieve military success against Russia. This marks a significant shift from his previous stance, where he often blamed both sides for the conflict. The implications of this change could affect U.S. support for Ukraine and the dynamics within NATO, especially for frontline states like Estonia. Observers are left wondering what specific actions might follow this surprising declaration.

In Victoria, a troubling trend has emerged as the crime rate surged by 13.8%, reaching a record high in 2024-25. Alarmingly, less than 1% of the population is responsible for 40% of all criminal offenses, according to data from the Crime Statistics Agency. This spike in crime not only raises concerns about public safety but also highlights the need for targeted interventions to address the root causes of offending. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for policymakers and communities alike, as they work to create safer environments.

Assata Shakur, a prominent figure in the Black Liberation Army and a symbol of resistance, has passed away at the age of 78 in Havana, Cuba. Her life was marked by her activism and her controversial escape from the U.S. after being convicted of killing a New Jersey state trooper. Shakur's death is significant as it highlights the ongoing discussions around race, justice, and the legacy of political activism in America.

A recent forensic audit of the Federation of Sovereign Indigenous Nations has raised serious concerns, revealing that over $34 million of its expenditures from April 2019 to March 2024 were deemed questionable, unsupported, or ineligible. This finding is significant as it highlights potential mismanagement of funds within an organization that plays a crucial role in representing Indigenous interests, raising questions about accountability and transparency in financial practices.

Keir Starmer's proposal for mandatory digital IDs in the UK has sparked significant criticism from rivals and civil liberties groups. Concerns are rising about the potential risks, including the creation of a major hacking target and the exclusion of individuals without smartphones. This initiative, aimed for implementation by mid-2029, raises important questions about privacy and accessibility in an increasingly digital world.

The Ryder Cup 2025 kicked off with an exciting day of foursomes at Bethpage Black, where the USA trails Europe 1-3 after the first round. This event is significant as it showcases top golfers from both sides competing for national pride and glory. With players like Bryson DeChambeau aiming to ignite the American team, fans are eager to see how the competition unfolds in the coming days.

This week's photo gallery showcases significant global events, including protests in Milan, Israeli strikes on Gaza, and the impact of Super Typhoon Ragasa in China, alongside lighter moments like a pelican relaxing in London. These images not only capture the diversity of human experiences but also highlight the pressing issues facing different regions, reminding us of the interconnectedness of our world.

Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian has issued a stark warning about the potential consequences of the Trump administration's actions, suggesting they could ignite further conflict in the Middle East. He also reflected on a personal injury from the recent war with Israel and expressed openness to international nuclear inspectors visiting Iran. This statement highlights the ongoing tensions in the region and the delicate balance of international relations, making it crucial for global leaders to engage in dialogue to prevent escalation.