Catherine Connolly: the outspoken leftwinger set to be Ireland’s next president

In Dublin, a chaotic scene unfolded as three police officers were injured and 24 individuals were arrested during a disturbance outside a hotel housing asylum seekers. The situation escalated with stones and fireworks being hurled at law enforcement, highlighting ongoing tensions surrounding immigration and public safety. This incident underscores the challenges cities face in managing community relations and the safety of vulnerable populations.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is set to visit Israel as part of ongoing efforts by the Trump administration to reinforce a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. This visit follows a significant ruling by the International Court of Justice, which stated that Israel has not substantiated its claims regarding the UN's relief agency for Palestinians, UNRWA, being linked to Hamas. This diplomatic engagement highlights the complexities of the situation and the US's role in seeking stability in the region.

Dublin is facing a third night of unrest as protests erupt over the alleged assault of a child, leading to clashes between demonstrators and police. The situation escalated with officers being targeted by stones and fireworks, resulting in injuries and multiple arrests. This unrest highlights growing tensions surrounding asylum policies and community safety, making it a significant issue for both local authorities and residents.

In Dublin, a second night of violent clashes between teens, some as young as seven, and police has resulted in at least 23 arrests. This unrest, centered around an asylum hotel, raises serious concerns about community tensions and the safety of vulnerable populations. The use of fireworks in these confrontations highlights the escalating nature of the conflict, making it a significant issue for local authorities and residents alike.

Germany has stepped up to support thousands of employees at local American military bases who are facing financial uncertainty due to the ongoing U.S. government shutdown. By covering their wages, Germany not only demonstrates solidarity with its NATO ally but also ensures that these workers can maintain their livelihoods during a challenging time. This move highlights the importance of international cooperation and the shared responsibilities among NATO members.

Lithuania has raised concerns over balloons allegedly carrying contraband cigarettes crossing from Belarus, prompting threats to close its border. This situation is significant as it highlights ongoing tensions between NATO member states and Belarus, raising questions about border security and the potential for increased conflict in the region.

Russia's recent nuclear drills highlight escalating tensions in Europe, particularly in light of the ongoing Ukraine war. This comes just after Ukraine's President Zelensky secured a significant deal for 150 Gripen fighter jets from Sweden, aiming to bolster Ukraine's defense amid relentless Russian attacks that have severely impacted the country's energy infrastructure. The situation underscores the urgent need for international attention and support as both nations navigate this precarious landscape.

The U.S. and Israel are contemplating a controversial plan to split Gaza into two distinct zones, one under Israeli control and the other governed by Hamas. This division raises significant concerns about the future of the region, as reconstruction efforts would be limited to the Israeli side, potentially exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in the area controlled by Hamas. This plan could further entrench divisions and complicate peace efforts, making it a critical issue for both local residents and international observers.

Syrian authorities have successfully negotiated a ceasefire with a jihadist group led by Frenchman Oumar Diaby in northwestern Syria. This development is significant as it may help reduce violence in the region and open pathways for humanitarian aid, reflecting ongoing efforts to stabilize the area amidst the complex conflict.

The Women's Cricket World Cup match between India and New Zealand is currently underway in Navi Mumbai, with India aiming for a semi-final spot. As the game progresses, fans are eagerly watching the performance of players like Smriti Mandhana and Jess Kerr. This match is significant not only for the teams involved but also for the growing popularity of women's cricket, showcasing the talent and competitiveness of female athletes on a global stage.

In a recent court ruling, six men were found guilty of rioting in Ely, a response to tragic e-bike deaths that have sparked community outrage. This verdict highlights the tensions surrounding safety and accountability in the wake of these incidents, emphasizing the need for better regulations and awareness regarding e-bike usage.

King Charles made history by becoming the first British monarch to pray publicly with the Pope in 500 years during a visit to the Vatican. This significant moment not only highlights the evolving relationship between the Church of England and the Catholic Church but also symbolizes a commitment to interfaith dialogue. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is advocating for the European Union to quickly approve a plan to utilize frozen Russian assets to support Ukraine, emphasizing the legality and fairness of the proposal. This dual narrative showcases the importance of diplomacy and unity in addressing both spiritual and geopolitical challenges.

In the second men's one-day international at Adelaide Oval, Australia is chasing a target of 265 runs to secure a win against India. The match is currently underway, with Josh Hazlewood starting strong by delivering a maiden over, showcasing his skill and putting pressure on the Indian batsmen. This match is significant as it highlights the ongoing rivalry between these two cricketing nations and the importance of ODI series in shaping team rankings and player performances.

In a recent statement, Trump expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of talks with Putin, noting that they 'don't go anywhere.' This comes as the US imposes new sanctions on Rosneft and Lukoil, Russia's largest oil companies, in response to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. These sanctions are significant as they aim to pressure Russia economically while highlighting the US's commitment to supporting Ukraine during this crisis.