MPs’ pay watchdog to give public more of a say on how politicians are funded

In a significant political development, Georgia has charged five politicians with attempting to overthrow the government, highlighting ongoing unrest in the country. This situation is crucial as it reflects the tensions within Georgian politics and raises concerns about stability in the region.

Nearly 500 individuals were arrested during a Palestine Action protest in London, which took place despite appeals from politicians and police for the demonstrations to be postponed following the recent Manchester synagogue attack. This event highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding protests related to Palestine and raises questions about public safety and the right to protest in sensitive times.

France is facing a significant budgetary deadlock as the new Prime Minister proposes a tax aimed at individuals earning 250,000 euros or more, alongside measures to limit the wealthy's use of holding companies. This situation is crucial as it highlights the ongoing struggle within French politics to address fiscal challenges and ensure equitable taxation, which could impact public services and economic stability.

The U.S. is facing a critical situation as funding to ensure the safety of its nuclear arsenal may run out due to a government shutdown, according to the energy secretary. This lapse in funding raises serious concerns about the oversight and security of these weapons, which are vital for national defense. The implications of such a shutdown could jeopardize not only the safety of the nuclear stockpile but also the broader stability of U.S. defense strategies.

As the government shutdown stretches into its third day, President Donald Trump has taken a controversial step by freezing $2.1 billion in transit funding for Chicago, a city led by Democrats. This move is part of a broader strategy where Trump's administration has now withheld at least $28 billion from Democratic cities and states, raising concerns about the politicization of federal funding. This situation not only affects public services but also highlights the ongoing tensions between the Trump administration and Democratic leaders, making it a significant issue for both local governance and national politics.

The UK is reportedly 'furious' over its unsuccessful strategy towards Russia, as highlighted by the Russian Foreign Intelligence Service. Despite efforts to isolate Moscow, the UK has not achieved its goals and is now allegedly planning a new provocation. This situation is significant as it reflects the ongoing tensions between the UK and Russia, raising concerns about future diplomatic relations and potential escalations.

A pipe bomb was discovered outside the Sinn Féin offices, prompting strong condemnation from first minister Liz Kimmins, who labeled the incident an 'attack on democracy.' This alarming event raises concerns about political violence and the safety of public officials, highlighting the ongoing tensions in the region.

Recent footage has surfaced, reportedly showing Jihad Al-Shamie just before an attack, aligning with witness descriptions. This development is significant as it may provide crucial evidence for ongoing investigations and help authorities understand the events leading up to the incident.

Israeli and Hamas officials are gearing up for indirect talks in Egypt aimed at discussing a potential ceasefire and the release of hostages. This meeting comes as the conflict in Gaza approaches its second anniversary, and it revolves around a U.S.-drafted peace plan introduced by President Trump. While there are still many uncertainties, including key demands like the disarmament of Hamas, this dialogue represents a hopeful step towards ending the violence and establishing a more stable future for the region.

Gisèle Pelicot, a French rape victim who became a symbol of resilience after a landmark verdict last year, is back in court as an appeals trial begins for the man convicted of her assault. This case is significant not only for Pelicot but also for the broader conversation around justice for victims of sexual violence in France. The outcome could influence future cases and the legal landscape surrounding such crimes.

The Conservative Party's recent proposal to eliminate green energy measures has sparked significant backlash from environmental groups, who have labeled the plan as 'contradictory nonsense.' Shadow energy secretary's comments were dismissed as 'dead wrong,' highlighting the ongoing tension between political agendas and environmental sustainability. This debate is crucial as it reflects the broader struggle over climate policy in the UK, impacting future energy strategies and environmental commitments.