In a deadly incident marking the first crew fatalities in commercial shipping due to Houthi strikes, three sailors have died following a Houthi missile attack on a ship in the Gulf of Aden. This attack was claimed by the Houthis and is part of a series of strikes they began last year in waters off Yemen. The MV True Confidence's crew had to abandon the ship after the attack, according to US officials. The British embassy in Sana’a, Yemen, initially reported two fatalities, which was later revised to three by the US Central Command. The attacked vessel, owned by Liberia-registered True Confidence Shipping and operated by Greece-based Third January Maritime Ltd, was left adrift with a fire on board. Rescue operations were underway, with some crew members already in lifeboats, as reported by the marine security firm Ambrey. Houthi militants have escalated attacks against international commercial shipping since mid-November, justifying these as actions in solidarity with Palestinians. These attacks have caused damage to several ships, but this is the first instance of merchant sailor fatalities. The incident underscores the growing danger in the region's key shipping routes, prompting some companies to alter or suspend their operations. The US and the UK are now focusing on improving intelligence on Houthi military assets and bolstering local naval forces to secure Yemen’s territorial waters. Despite this, there remains a high risk to all vessels in the area due to the ongoing conflict.
Israel: Massive rocket attack on Kiryat Shmona – ‘Hezbollah aggression nearing critical point’
08 Mar 2024
Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant conveyed to U.S. Special Envoy Amos Hochstein that Israel is nearing a decision for military action in Lebanon due to Hezbollah’s ongoing attacks. This message was delivered following a significant rocket attack on the northern Israeli town of Kiryat Shmona by Hezbollah, where around 30 rockets were fired, 10 intercepted by Israel’s missile defence systems. One rocket hit a house's yard, causing minor damage but no injuries. Hochstein, who is in the region to facilitate a negotiated agreement to prevent escalation between Israel and Hezbollah, was warned by Gallant of the increasing likelihood of conflict due to Hezbollah’s aggression. This escalation was evident in the intense skirmishes along Israel’s northern border, with Hezbollah claiming responsibility for at least eight attacks in a single day. The IDF responded by striking the launch sites of the attacks and other Hezbollah infrastructure in Lebanon. Targets included a military site in Ayta al-Sha’ab, operational headquarters in Jabal al-Batam, and launch positions in al-Matmura, as well as other military buildings in southern Lebanon. Hezbollah justified its heavy rocket barrage as retaliation for Israeli strikes in Hula, initially reported as civilian casualties but later confirmed as Hezbollah members.
Group unveils plan to stop abortion and the abuse of women forced to terminate pregnancies
08 Mar 2024
The pro-life group Live Action has unveiled a plan aimed at halting abortion and the abuse of women. The organisation, known for its anti-abortion stance, is launching a campaign to educate the public about the harms of abortion to both unborn children and women. Live Action's president, Lila Rose, emphasised the need to expose the "violence of abortion" and its negative impact on women's physical and mental health. The group's plan includes raising awareness about the dangers of abortion and promoting alternatives that protect both the mother and the unborn child. They intend to utilise various mediums, including social media, to disseminate their message. Additionally, Live Action is advocating for policy changes and support systems that offer better care and resources for pregnant women, particularly those facing unplanned pregnancies. Live Action's approach focuses on educating young people and communities about the reality of abortion and its repercussions. They aim to create a culture where abortion is not only illegal but unthinkable. The group believes that through education and support, women can be empowered to make life-affirming choices for themselves and their unborn children.
Former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley has withdrawn from the presidential race, paving the way for a potential Biden-Trump rematch. In her announcement from South Carolina, Haley declined to endorse Donald Trump, though acknowledging his likely nomination as the Republican candidate. Her campaign, lasting over a year, focused on several key issues, including support for Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan, concerns about national debt, and advocating for congressional term limits. Haley's decision follows a series of electoral setbacks, including a sole victory in Vermont on Super Tuesday and underwhelming performances in other primaries. Initially a strong contender in a crowded Republican field, Haley gained traction through impressive debate performances and support from influential donors and political figures. However, her campaign lost momentum due to several gaffes, including controversial remarks about the American Civil War and racism in the U.S. Despite maintaining a moderate stance on issues like gun control and abortion rights, critics suggested Haley didn't sufficiently distance herself from Trump. Her campaign endured until it became evident that her chances of securing the Republican nomination were slim, leading to her eventual suspension of the campaign. This exit sets the stage for a likely Trump nomination and a repeat of the Trump-Biden electoral battle in 2020. (The Independent) See also
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has called for enhanced military capabilities against the US and South Korea, responding to ongoing joint military exercises between the two nations. During a visit to a training base, Kim emphasised the need for “actual war drills'' to improve combat readiness, as reported by the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). This stance follows the North Korean Defense Ministry's declaration of conducting “responsible military activities'' in reaction to what they perceive as invasion preparations through the South Korean-US drills. The annual South Korean-US exercises, which are computer-simulated and involve field training, are seen as defensive by the participating countries. North Korea, which has historically responded to these drills with missile tests, continues to showcase nuclear-capable weaponry. South Korea’s Defense Ministry spokesperson, Jeon Ha Gyu, affirmed that South Korea will robustly counter any North Korean provocations, criticising the North’s portrayal of the drills as invasion rehearsals. This escalation occurs amidst a series of North Korean missile tests designed to target South Korea and the US mainland. Observers expect further tensions and provocative actions from North Korea, especially in the context of upcoming major elections in the US and South Korea.
Iran's morality police have escalated their enforcement of Islamic dress codes, leading to severe punishments for women, including car confiscations, floggings, and fines, reports Amnesty International. This crackdown follows protests ignited by the death of Mahsa Amini, who was detained for not wearing a hijab. Amnesty's findings reveal that tens of thousands of women have had their cars seized for defying veiling laws, with some also facing flogging, prison, or mandatory 'morality' classes. One woman, Roya Heshmati, described being flogged in front of a judge, likening it to "medieval torture." Many women recounted being pursued by police and stranded far from home after their vehicles were impounded. Release of the vehicles required payment of fees and commitments to comply with veiling laws. Surveillance and public reporting have intensified, with even men mistaken for women due to long hair facing questioning. The recent protests, under the slogan "Woman, Life, Freedom," challenged Iran's regime, leading to proposed legislation increasing penalties for dress code violations. Amnesty International's Deputy Middle East Director, Dina Eltahawy, noted the increased policing aims to suppress resistance, causing distress and disrupting lives. The report highlights the harsh realities of compulsory veiling and the Iranian government's efforts to reinforce it amidst growing public dissent.
Street preacher wins settlement from police
01 Mar 2024
Avon and Somerset police have confessed they acted ‘disproportionately’ when stopping pastor Dia Moodley from criticising other religions while street preaching. The notice was issued in 2021, to prevent him from ‘passing comments on any other religion or comparing them to Christianity’. After the police settled damages on the ground of religious discrimination, Moodley said, ‘It isn't for them to decide which religions or worldviews can be free from criticism. When I preach, I am committed to speaking about the good news of Christianity in love, grace, and truth – but that doesn't mean that I will never say something that others may disagree with. The nature of a free and democratic society is that we can speak publicly about our beliefs. Thankfully, I have received some measure of justice after having been wrongfully silenced by authorities. But this creeping culture of censorship is detrimental to all of us in society, whatever we believe, and we must challenge it wherever we see it.’
Cathedral’s 900 years of ministry recognised
01 Mar 2024
A motion has been introduced in the Scottish parliament to formally recognise St Giles' Cathedral, a landmark in Edinburgh with a history spanning 900 years. MSP Miles Briggs commended the cathedral for its enduring significance and its efforts to engage people of all backgrounds and faiths. Rev Dr George Whyte, representing St Giles', expressed gratitude for the recognition, emphasising the importance of maintaining a balance between tourism and worship. The motion also highlights the cathedral's role as a centre celebrating Scotland's heritage and culture, attracting 1.5 million visitors annually. It is also a national church, hosting significant events such as state ceremonies. The cathedral's outreach projects aim to foster inclusivity and community cohesion. The motion will be circulated for additional signatures, reflecting widespread support within the parliament.