UN calls for Taliban to restore internet as Afghanistan goes dark

The UN Security Council has approved a significant resolution to bolster security in Haiti by establishing a new military force of up to 5,500 personnel to combat rampant gang violence. This move is crucial as the country has been struggling with escalating violence that has overwhelmed local law enforcement. The involvement of military troops, as highlighted by US Ambassador Mike Waltz, marks a pivotal shift in addressing the crisis and aims to restore stability and safety for the Haitian people.

Dr. Subir Sinha from SOAS University highlights a fascinating trend among GenZ protest movements, noting a 'contagion effect' similar to what was seen during the Arab Spring. This phenomenon, fueled by social media, allows young activists worldwide to connect and inspire each other, even as their causes may differ. Understanding this interconnectedness is crucial as it shows how global youth are increasingly united in their quest for change.

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has stirred controversy by criticizing 'fat generals' and diversity initiatives, claiming they have contributed to a decline in military effectiveness. During a rare meeting with commanders, he urged those who do not align with his agenda to resign. This statement raises significant concerns about the direction of military leadership and the implications for diversity and inclusion within the armed forces.

The U.S. is attempting to reestablish its military base in Afghanistan as a strategic counter to China's growing influence in the region. This move highlights the ongoing geopolitical tensions between the two superpowers, with Washington seeking to secure its position while Beijing expands its reach. The situation is significant as it reflects the shifting dynamics in international relations and the potential for increased conflict over influence in Asia.

In a recent address, President Donald Trump warned U.S. military officials about a so-called 'invasion from within,' equating domestic threats to foreign enemies. This alarming rhetoric highlights the growing concerns over internal divisions and challenges to national security, suggesting that identifying these threats may be more complex than traditional military confrontations. Trump's comments reflect a significant shift in focus for the military, emphasizing the need to address internal issues that could undermine the nation's stability.

The UN has urged the Taliban to restore internet access in Afghanistan following a nationwide shutdown, the first since they regained power in August 2021. This outage is part of the Taliban's ongoing efforts to enforce their version of morality, raising concerns about freedom of information and communication in the country. The situation is critical as internet access is vital for education, business, and connecting with the outside world.

Afghanistan is experiencing a severe communications blackout as Taliban authorities have shut down internet and mobile phone services for the second consecutive day. This unprecedented move is part of a broader crackdown aimed at preventing what the Taliban deems 'vice.' The impact on daily life is significant, leaving many Afghans feeling isolated and disconnected. This situation raises concerns about freedom of communication and access to information in the country, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by the Afghan population since the Taliban regained control.

Flights in Afghanistan have been grounded following an indefinite internet shutdown imposed by the Taliban. While the group has not provided an official reason for this drastic measure, it raises concerns about the impact on travel and communication within the country. This situation is particularly troubling as it affects not only local citizens but also international aid and business operations, highlighting the ongoing challenges in Afghanistan.

The recent Road World Championships in Rwanda marked a historic moment as the first event of its kind held in Africa, over a century since the competition began. This milestone not only showcases Rwanda's growing prominence in the sports world but also brings a sense of pride and excitement to local spectators. The event has the potential to inspire future generations of cyclists in Africa and promote the region as a vibrant destination for international sporting events.

Three Afghan sisters living in Iran are using karate to empower themselves and other women in their community. Fleeing the Taliban in search of safety, they have turned to martial arts not just for self-defense, but as a means to build courage and resilience. Their story highlights the challenges faced by migrants and the positive impact of sports in fostering strength and unity among women, especially in hostile environments.

British veterans are launching a legal battle over earplugs they claim are faulty, which were used during military operations, including in Afghanistan, since 2003. This issue is significant as it highlights the ongoing struggles veterans face with hearing loss and the accountability of manufacturers in providing adequate protection for those serving in combat.

Following Moldova's recent election, where the pro-Western party secured a significant win, allegations of voter fraud have emerged, primarily from pro-Russian supporters. They are sharing videos claiming to show evidence of this fraud. However, experts, including Charlotte Hughes from France 24, have pointed out inconsistencies in the footage that raise questions about its credibility. This situation is crucial as it highlights the ongoing political tensions in Moldova and the challenges to democratic processes.

Recent data reveals that competition for graduate jobs has reached an all-time high, prompting experts to advise new graduates to focus on local opportunities. With firms cutting back on available positions in their programs, the job landscape is becoming increasingly challenging. This shift highlights the importance of local job markets and the need for graduates to adapt their strategies to secure employment.

Former UK Defense Secretary Ben Wallace has called on Western nations to take decisive action against Crimea, suggesting that they should make the region 'not inhabitable' to support Ukraine. This statement highlights the ongoing tensions in the area and the West's role in the conflict, emphasizing the urgency of international involvement in the situation.

In a significant move, Australia's opposition leader Ley has communicated new standards of behavior to her frontbench team, emphasizing accountability within the party. Meanwhile, the union has responded to Optus's claims regarding a triple-zero outage, which the company attributed to staff issues. This situation highlights ongoing tensions in Australian politics and the importance of effective communication and responsibility in public service, especially in critical areas like emergency services.

The U.S. government is on the brink of its first shutdown in nearly seven years, with both Democrats and Republicans trading blame as the midnight deadline approaches. President Trump has stated that if a deal isn't reached, he will have 'no choice' but to cut federal workers. This situation is significant as it highlights the ongoing political gridlock in Congress and the potential impact on government services and employees, raising concerns about the economy and public welfare.

Lola Young has announced the cancellation of her upcoming gigs due to a recent stage collapse, stating she needs to take time away for the foreseeable future. This news is disappointing for her fans who were looking forward to her performances, and it highlights the importance of safety in live events. Young's decision to prioritize her well-being and that of her audience is commendable, but it leaves many fans feeling let down.

In a thrilling Champions League match, Galatasaray triumphed over Liverpool with a 1-0 victory, thanks to an early penalty scored by Victor Osimhen. This win is significant as it showcases Galatasaray's strength on the European stage, boosting their confidence and fan support while putting them in a favorable position in the tournament.