Podcasts about trt world

May 23, 2025 by TRT World

This is TRT World's Daily News Brief for Wednesday, May 14th. Palestine says Israel continues to 'weaponise aid' to punish Gaza "Palestine's representative to the UN, Riyad Mansour, says Israel is using starvation as a deliberate weapon in Gaza. He accused Israeli authorities of systematically blocking aid and manipulating its delivery—not just occasionally, but in a way he described as deliberate and ongoing for over two months. Mansour told the UN Security Council that this isn't just mismanagement, it's what he calls ""engineered starvation""." Trump's Arab ally worked discreetly to secure release of US-Israeli captive:sources "Sources have told TRT World that the release of American-Israeli hostage Edan Alexander was the result of quiet, behind-the-scenes diplomacy, and a key figure in this was American-Arab activist Bishara Bahbah. According to the sources, a senior Hamas official reached out to Bahbah last month in search of a communication channel to Steve Witkoff, who served as Donald Trump's Middle East envoy. That backchannel eventually led to Alexander's release, carried out by Hamas's armed wing, the Qassam Brigades." Celebrations in Damascus as Syria calls Trump's decision to lift sanctions 'a turning point' "Over in Syria, officials are celebrating what they see as a major shift in US policy. President Donald Trump's move to lift sanctions on Syria is being hailed as a ""turning point"" by the country's leadership. Foreign Minister Asaad al Shaibani welcomed the announcement, saying it marks a significant moment for the Syrian people. He called it a step toward greater stability, economic independence, and the chance to rebuild after years of war." Trump secures $600B Saudi investment pledge on Gulf tour "Donald Trump has locked in a massive $600 billion investment pledge from Saudi Arabia during his Gulf tour. As Trump stepped off Air Force One, he was greeted by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Later, the two signed a major agreement in Riyadh that includes cooperation in energy, defence, mining and more. The deal also features what Washington is calling the biggest-ever defence sales agreement between the two countries—nearly $142 billion worth of commitments in that area alone." Spain chooses Turkish HURJET as advanced trainer for its air force "In a notable boost for Turkish aerospace, Spain has picked Türkiye's HURJET as the next advanced jet trainer for its air force. The news comes just as the 2025 International Defence and Security Exhibition (FEINDEF) wraps up. According to Spanish aviation media outlet Avion Revue Internacional, an official signing is expected this Wednesday between the Spain's defence industry and HURJET's manufacturer Turkish Aerospace. The agreement sets the stage for future collaboration and the formal inclusion of HURJET into the Spanish Air and Space Force's training fleet."

Förra veckan publicerade Göteborgsposten en lång, exklusiv intervju med artisten Måns Zelmerlöw från hans hem i skånska Staffanstorp. Artisten befinner sig mitt i en sårig skillsmässa som utspelar sig inför öppna ridåer. Lyssna på alla avsnitt i Sveriges Radio Play. I intervjun erkänner Måns Zelmerlöw att han tagit kokain. En nyhet som fick stort nationellt genomslag. Men precis som att Göteborg är Sveriges andra stad så var Göteborgsposten andrahandsvalet när Måns pressfolk erbjöd den här exklusiva intervjun till svenska medier. Förstahandsvalet var Dagens Nyheter. Och det fanns en anledning till att DN valde att tacka nej till den här chansen.Reporter: Freddi RamelI förra veckan skedde ett brutalt trippelmord i Uppsala. Tre killar, mellan 15- och 20 år gamla, sköts till döds inne på en frisersalong i stadsdelen Vaksala. Mitt på blanka dagen. Samma kväll greps en 16-årig kille i sitt hem och på en pressträff sa polisen att han anhållits på sannolika skäl misstänkt för att vara skytten som dödade de tre killarna. Men blott tre dagar senare släpptes han och alla misstankar avskrevs plötsligt. Kvar finns nu en mängd publiceringar om honom, om än anonymiserade så tämligen utbroderade. Reporter: Martina PierrouVilka frilansjobb kan man egentligen kombinera med återkommande uppdrag för Sveriges Radio? I veckan kunde sajten Bulletin berätta att en av Ekots medarbetare, programledaren och reportern Per Bergfors Nyberg har en bakgrund som nyhetsankare på den turkiska tv-kanalen TRT World. Det här ledde i veckan både till en diskussion och högljudd till kritik mot Sveriges radio. Att just nu när den svenska journalisten Joakim Medin sitter fängslad i just Turkiet— ha en anställd med bakgrund på en kanal som beskrivs som närmast ett propagandaorgan för Turkiets president Erdogan, jaa det har stuckit i ögonen. Reporter: Erik Petersson

This is TRT World's Daily News Brief for Thursday, May 8th. Pakistan shoots down Indian jets as tensions soar "To calm tensions between the two arch-rivals India and Pakistan, world leaders have urged them to stop fighting. US President Donald Trump called for both nations to cease hostilities, while Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan offered diplomatic support to de-escalate the situation. Pakistan has said Indian strikes resulted in the deaths of 31 Pakistani civilians and injuries to 57 others, vowing to respond. It also said its air force brought down five Indian fighter jets and one drone in an act of ""self-defence” — including three Rafale aircraft." Israel kills over 50 Palestinians in continued Gaza bombardment "At least 54 Palestinians were killed and dozens more wounded in fresh Israeli air strikes across Gaza, according to medics. In Al-Tuffah, 16 Palestinians were killed in Israeli shelling of a school-turned-shelter, while 22 others were killed in an attack on a market in Gaza City. Further casualties occurred in Khan Younis, Bani Suhaila and various refugee camps. Gaza's government media office confirmed that Israel has targeted over 234 shelters. Total blockade on Gaza has caused severe famine among Palestinians, with the world urging Tel Aviv to allow aid to flow. Israel has killed over 52,600 people in the Palestinian enclave, mostly women and children, since October 7, 2023. " US court blocks Trump admin's transfer bid for detained Turkish student "A federal appeals court has ordered the transfer of Turkish doctoral student Rumeysa Ozturk from an immigration jail in Louisiana to a court in Vermont, where a bail hearing is scheduled for May 9. Ozturk was arrested in March after co-authoring a critical op-ed on Israel's genocidal war on Gaza. The ruling rejects the Trump administration's attempt to block her transfer. Ozturk's legal team argues her detention violates free speech rights." Russia declares ceasefire with Ukraine during Victory Day "Russia declares a unilateral ceasefire lasting until midnight on 11 May, marking the 80th anniversary of Victory Day, a national holiday, commemorating the 1945 defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II. President Vladimir Putin's move to pause hostilities during the national holiday met resistance from Kiev. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy rejected the initiative and warned foreign dignitaries against attending Moscow's celebrations, citing safety concerns. The Kremlin hit back, labelling the warning a “threat,” while spokesman Dmitry Peskov vowed a “swift and effective” military response to any breach by Ukraine." Black smoke rises again as Vatican delays papal decision "Tension runs high in Vatican City as black smoke once again billowed from the Sistine Chapel, signalling no decision yet on the next pope. The 133 cardinals, the most diverse group ever assembled, began their second day of secret voting Thursday. With no clear favourite, speculation swirls—from Italy's Pizzaballa to Sri Lanka's Ranjith. As Catholic pilgrims crowd St Peter's Square, hope lingers as the Christian world awaits the white smoke that will herald the 267th pontiff."

April 26, 2025 by TRT World

Following the breaking news on Friday afternoon that Russell Brand has been formally charged with rape and sexual assault by UK authorities, we speak with TRT World presenter Enda Brady in London, to detail the charges and look to what comes next. Host: Tabitha Monahan Guest: Enda BradySee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Donald Trumps dotter och svärson, Ivanka Trump och Jared Kushner, har storslagna planer för Albanien. De planerar att bygga att semesterparadis för miljardärer i naturskyddade områden, något som väcker kritik och frågor. Hur kommer det sig att paret väljer att investera i landet, och varför har de som god relation med landets premiärminister? Gäst: Teresa Küchler, Svenska Dagbladets medarbetare i Bryssel. Programledare och producent: Jessica Johansson. Klipp i avsnittet: The Center for Albanian Studies, TRT World, Reuters Kontakt: podcast@aftonbladet.se

February 20, 2025 by TRT World

February 19, 2025 by TRT World

February 18, 2025 by TRT World

February 17, 2025 by TRT World

Historian Greg Grandin, journalist José Luis Granados Ceja & journalist Andalusia Soloff talk about Mexico, Colombia, Venezuela, Cuba, neocolonialism, immigration and deportation. Greg Grandin is Professor of History at Yale University. He is the author of a number of prize-winning books, including most recently The End of the Myth: From the Frontier to the Border Wall in the Mind of America, and The Empire of Necessity: Slavery, Freedom, and Deception in the New World, which won the Bancroft and Beveridge prizes in American History and was shortlisted for the Samuel Johnson Prize in the UK. He is also the author of Fordlandia: The Rise and Fall of Henry Ford's Forgotten Jungle City, a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize in History, as well as for the National Book Award and the National Book Critics Circle Award. His first book, The Blood of Guatemala, won the Latin American Studies Association's Bryce Wood Award for the best book published on Latin America, in any discipline. He has published widely in, among other places, The New York Times, Harper's, The London Review of Books, The Nation, The Boston Review, The Los Angeles Times, The New Republic, The Hispanic American Historical Review, and The American Historical Review. A graduate of Brooklyn College at the City University of New York, Professor Grandin received his doctorate at Yale University, where he studied under Emilia Viotti da Costa. He is also a member of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences. José Luis Granados Ceja (@GranadosCeja https://twitter.com/granadosceja?lang=en) is a writer and photojournalist based in Mexico City. He previously worked as a staff writer for teleSUR and currently works on a freelance basis. He is also the host of the Soberanía podcast co-host of the Soberanía podcast ( / @soberaniapodcast . His stories focus on contemporary political issues, particularly those that involve grassroots efforts to affect social change. He often covers the work of social and labor movements in Latin America. Follow him on Twitter: @GranadosCeja (https://twitter.com/granadosceja?lang=en) Andalusia K. Soloff is an Emmy nominated documentary filmmaker and multimedia journalist in Mexico who seeks to center the voices of those most affected by violence by focusing on their human dignity and resilience. Soloff has produced award-winning documentaries including "A Sense of Community: Iztapalapa," "Frontline Mexico," "Guatemala's Past Unearthed"(Al Jazeera) as well as "Endangered" (HBO), focused on the risks that journalists face. Her new cinematic short, "Poppy Crash," which flips the script on the fentanyl crisis, is part of the official selection of the DOCS MX film festival and IDFA Docs for Sale. She has produced news documentaries and reports for RAI, ZDF, CGTN, Democracy Now!, AJ+, VICE News, TRT World and worked both as a DP, Drone Operator, and Correspondent for numerous other production companies and global news outlets. She is Founder of the journalist organization Frontline Freelance México as well as Co-coordinator of the Fixing Journalism initiative, which seeks to change the unequal relationships that exist between local fixers and foreign correspondents. Andalusia has been a fellow with the Dart Center and the International Women's Media Foundation. ***Please support The Katie Halper Show *** For bonus content, exclusive interviews, to support independent media & to help make this program possible, please join us on Patreon - https://www.patreon.com/thekatiehalpershow Get your Katie Halper Show Merch here! https://katiehalper.myspreadshop.com/all Follow Katie on Twitter: @kthalps

Daily News Brief January 31 by TRT World

January 27, 2025 by TRT World

* Israel approves Gaza truce deal in key vote Israel's government has greenlit a ceasefire and prisoner swap with Hamas in a 24-8 vote after cabinet talks. The deal, seen as a pivotal pause in the Israeli brutal war on Gaza, required PM Netanyahu to rally support from his ministers. TRT World's Mohammad Al-Kassim reported that most ministers backed the agreement. Netanyahu's office confirmed the decision after six hours of debate. * Syrians protest PKK/YPG in Damascus Syrians gathered at the Umayyad Mosque in Damascus after Friday prayers to denounce the PKK/YPG. Protesters chanted slogans against the group's actions, calling for an end to eight years of violations, including road closures and resource hoarding. Residents reported fears of leaving homes at night due to PKK/YPG control. * Over 40 Pakistanis dead in migrant boat disaster More than 40 Pakistanis drowned after a migrant boat capsized off West Africa's coast, a key route for those attempting to reach Europe. The tragedy drew grief from President Asif Ali Zardari, who called for tougher measures to stop human trafficking. Spain-based Walking Borders reported 50 deaths, 44 of whom were Pakistanis, as the group embarked on a perilous journey to the Canary Islands. * Colombia halts peace talks amid guerrilla violence Colombia has suspended peace talks with the ELN after guerrilla violence near the Venezuela border left 39 dead. President Gustavo Petro accused the group of “war crimes” after it targeted rivals and paramilitaries in fresh clashes. The unrest derailed fragile negotiations and dashed hopes for the ELN to disarm. * US Supreme Court backs TikTok ban over security fears The US Supreme Court has upheld a law allowing a TikTok ban unless ByteDance, its Chinese parent, sells the app by Sunday. In a unanimous 9-0 decision, the court ruled the measure does not violate free speech, citing national security concerns. Congress had passed the law with bipartisan support, and TikTok's legal challenge failed to sway the justices.

In the UK a Tory bid to launch a new national inquiry into the grooming gangs scandal has been voted down by MPs.Enda Brady, TV Presenter at TRT World explains what happen yesterday.

Catherine Gray, host of Invest In Her, talks with Sarah Dusek, a venture capitalist and co-founder of EnygmanVentures, a venture capital fund. She invests in women-led businesses in Southern Africa, creates solutions to wealth disparity, and provides access to capital for women.   In 2017, after successfully selling her company, Under Canvas, for more than $100 million, Sarah launched Enygma Ventures. In that same year, Under Canvas received a spot on the coveted Inc. 5000 list, and Sarah was named to Ernst & Young's EY Entrepreneurial Winning Women list. Sarah began her career in the nonprofit world in her early twenties working in Southern Africa and Southeast Asia. After almost eight years, she became disillusioned with the lack of change resulting from her efforts. She realized that the most effective vehicle for driving change and solving big world problems is business. Businesses are sustainable solutions to problems. They drive economies, create self-sufficiencies, and change our world. Business can, and should, be a force for good.   Today, Sarah offers online courses for early-stage entrepreneurs (hosted at www.pranary.com). Over the past year, five thousand entrepreneurs have gone through her programs to become investor-ready and learn how to build valuable companies. She is a regular contributor to Forbes.com, The Telegraph, and TRT World. She is also chairwoman of the Women's Giving Circle for The Global Good Fund, a social entrepreneurship leadership development program, and sits on the board of ten (and rising) startup companies in Southern Africa, as well as Under Canvas. Sarah has an LLB Law degree from Exeter University, UK, and an MA from University of Manchester in Missiology. She divides her time between the US and South Africa with her husband and two children.   www.sheangelinvestors.com  www.pranary.com

Poland has become an increasingly important actor within the European Union. After years of democratic backsliding, it`s democracy is consolidating again under Prime Minister Donald Tusk who took office in 2023. In 2025 Poland will face presidential elections and Poland will also be chairing the Council of the European Union. Poland is a stance supporter of Ukraine after it was invaded by Russia in February 2024. It hosts a large number of Ukrainian refugees and is rapidly building up its defense capabilities in order to deter a hostile Russia. What geopolitical role is Poland pursuing in an increasingly multipolar world? How will the election of Donald Trump shape the future of European Security and how does Poland perceive it`s role within the European Union? With Ukraine and Moldova having candidate status for EU accession, what can be expected from Poland in this context? How important is democracy and peace for Poland? Is Poland able to bridge different perceptions of EU countries about the future of the Union? These and other questions are discussed with the political analyst Wojciech Przybylski and the polish academic Maciej Kisilowksi in the 26th episode of the IIP Podcast “Peace Matters” moderated by Stephanie Fenkart. Guests: Wojciech Przybylski is a political analyst heading Visegrad Insight's policy foresight on European affairs. His expertise includes foreign policy and political culture. Editor-in-Chief of Visegrad Insight and President of the Res Publica Foundation. Europe's Future Fellow at IWM - Institute of Human Sciences in Vienna and Erste Foundation. Wojciech also co-authored a book 'Understanding Central Europe', Routledge 2017. He has been published in Foreign Policy, Politico Europe, Journal of Democracy, EUObserver, Project Syndicate, VoxEurop, Hospodarske noviny, Internazionale, Zeit, Dziennik Gazeta Prawna, Onet, Gazeta Wyborcza and regularly appears in BBC, Al Jazeera Europe, Euronews, TRT World, TVN24, TOK FM, Swedish Radio and others. Prof. Maciej Kisilowksi's research interests focus on the application of innovation strategy to various nonmarket fields, including public law and regulation. He received his doctorate in law and master's in law degrees from Yale Law School, M.P.A. in economics and public policy from Princeton University's Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International Affairs, and M.B.A. with distinction from INSEAD. He also holds another Ph.D. and M.A. in law from Warsaw University. Prof. Kisilowski designed and teaches a number of graduate and executive classes, for which he was awarded the CEU Distinguished Teaching including Award in 2016. Prof. Kisilowski is a frequent commentator on issues of political-economy of East-Central Europe, contributing (among others) to Los Angeles Times, Financial Times, Project Syndicate, Foreign Policy, Wall Street Journal, Politico and Haaretz. He is the author/editor of three books, including Administrategy, which was translated into five languages. His recent academic articles appeared in Law and Social Inquiry and International Business Review. Prof. Kisilowski is involved in a number of social change projects at the intersection of strategy and governance, including The Social Contract Incubator in his native Poland. He's a consultant to governmental organisations, progressive political parties, advocacy groups and businesses in Central Europe and beyond. Moderation: Stephanie Fenkart, Director of the IIP. The episode was recorded on 3 December 2024.

Cormac Smith has worked in Public Relations and Corporate Communications for over three decades. In 2016 he travelled to Ukraine to take up a special appointment as the ‘Strategic Communication Advisor' to Pavlo Klimkin, then the Foreign Minister of Ukraine. He was attached to the British Embassy in Kyiv but was embedded in Ukraine's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the first foreigner to hold such a position. While in Kyiv, he also advised and provided training for five other government ministries and worked directly with three other cabinet ministers: Health, Education and the Deputy Prime Minister. ---------- Philip Ingram is a journalist and consultant who has built on a long and senior military career as an intelligence, counterintelligence, security officer, and planner. Philip has extensive business experience, especially in steel manufacturing. He also has extensive media experience, appearing on the BBC, Sky News and Radio networks, international networks including Al Jazeera, TRT World, CNN, ABC, CBC, Japanese NTV and many others. ---------- LINKS: https://defencebrink.uk/ https://x.com/philipingmbe https://x.com/CormacS63 ---------- SUPPORT THE CHANNEL: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/siliconcurtain https://www.patreon.com/siliconcurtain ---------- TRUSTED CHARITIES ON THE GROUND: Save Ukraine https://www.saveukraineua.org/ Superhumans - Hospital for war traumas https://superhumans.com/en/ UNBROKEN - Treatment. Prosthesis. Rehabilitation for Ukrainians in Ukraine https://unbroken.org.ua/ Come Back Alive https://savelife.in.ua/en/ Chefs For Ukraine - World Central Kitchen https://wck.org/relief/activation-chefs-for-ukraine UNITED24 - An initiative of President Zelenskyy https://u24.gov.ua/ Serhiy Prytula Charity Foundation https://prytulafoundation.org NGO “Herojam Slava” https://heroiamslava.org/ kharpp - Reconstruction project supporting communities in Kharkiv and Przemyśl https://kharpp.com/ NOR DOG Animal Rescue https://www.nor-dog.org/home/ ---------- PLATFORMS: Twitter: https://twitter.com/CurtainSilicon Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/siliconcurtain/ Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/4thRZj6NO7y93zG11JMtqm Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/finkjonathan/ Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/siliconcurtain ---------- Welcome to the Silicon Curtain podcast. Please like and subscribe if you like the content we produce. It will really help to increase the popularity of our content in YouTube's algorithm. Our material is now being made available on popular podcasting platforms as well, such as Spotify and Apple Podcasts.

The United States has called on Iran to refrain from escalating the situation, reminding them of the dangers of the cycle of retaliation. This came after Israel launched airstrikes against Iran targeting several sites across the country. James M. Dorsey talks to TRT World. For more, subscribe to The Turbulent World at https://jamesmdorsey.substack.com

Negar Mortazavi discusses Israel-Iran tensions in an interview on CNN with Becky Anderson, on the Australian Radio, and on TRT World television. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theiranpodcast/support

*) Some 100 US doctors reject Israel's claim of Hamas misusing Gaza hospitals A group of 99 American physicians and medical professionals have said they saw no signs of Hamas activity in hospitals, calling on the Biden administration to immediately cease support for Israel. In a letter sent to President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris the group of doctors shared their firsthand experiences of the dire humanitarian conditions saying they had "witnessed crimes beyond comprehension." Doctors said in the letter that Israel's "continued, repeated" displacement of the malnourished and sick population of Gaza, half of whom are children, to areas without running water or even toilets available is "absolutely shocking." *) US backs Israel's invasion of Lebanon as bombs rattle Beirut The Biden administration believes it is appropriate for Israel to continue with its ground and air attacks on Lebanon for now, US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said. Miller said the nature of all conflicts was "fluid" and "unpredictable" and therefore it was impossible to say how long it would take Israel to achieve its stated goal of clearing Hezbollah infrastructure. *) Death toll from Helene that tore through southeast US tops 200 More than 210 people are now confirmed dead after Hurricane Helene carved a path of destruction through several US states, officials said, making it the second deadliest storm to hit the US mainland in more than half a century. The storm flooded towns and cities, made countless roads impassable, knocked out power and water service, and left communities shell-shocked as they grappled with the start of a years-long recovery effort. A compilation of official figures confirms 212 fatalities across North and South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, Tennessee and Virginia. *) Arab Americans unimpressed by Harris' outreach Arab Americans from various walks of life have voiced their disapproval of US Vice President Kamala Harris' latest attempt to reconnect with the minority community ahead of the 2024 elections. TRT World spoke with more than a dozen community members who voiced their sentiment in clear terms — it's simply not enough. As the presidential race intensifies, Harris' campaign finds itself scrambling to repair damaged ties with Muslim and Arab American voters, many of whom feel deeply disappointed by the administration's support for Israel's war on Palestinians in besieged Gaza. *) Netanyahu bugged my private toilet — Boris Johnson Former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has alleged that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has bugged his private living quarters on at least one occasion in 2017. Johnson shared excerpts of his forthcoming memoir, "Unleashed" , to daily Telegraph. In his book, which is set to be released on October 10, he writes, "Thither Bibi repaired for a while, and it may or may not be a coincidence but I am told that later, when they were doing a regular sweep for bugs, they found a listening device in the thunderbox." When pressed byTelegraph for more details on the alleged bugging, Johnson deflected, encouraging them to read his memoir upon its release for further revelations.

The Australian Federal Police have released a short podcast series to mark the ten year anniversary of the downing of flight MH17 in Ukraine. It's called Search Among the Sunflowers. The title reflects the surreal spectacle that faced the ten member team of AFP officers who were among the first international investigators allowed to enter the site. All 298 people on board were killed, including 38 people who called Australia home. Officer Hilda Sirec, who is now Assistant Commissioner of the AFP, was part of that first small team and she joins us on Australian True Crime to talk about the mission.Search Among The Sunflowers is available now, wherever you get your podcasts.Send us a question by recording a voice message here.Click here to subscribe to ATC Plus on Apple Podcasts and access all ATC episodes early and ad-free, as well as exclusive bonus episodes. CREDITS:Host: Meshel Laurie. You can find her on Instagram Guest: AFP Assistant Commissioner, Hilda SirecExecutive Producer/Editor: Matthew TankardThis episode contains extra content from the ABC, CNN and TRT World.GET IN TOUCH:https://www.australiantruecrimethepodcast.com/Follow the show on Instagram @australiantruecrimepodcast and Facebook Send us a question to have played on the show by recording a voice message here.Email the show at AusTrueCrimePodcast@gmail.com Become a subscriber to Australian True Crime Plus here: https://plus.acast.com/s/australiantruecrime. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is a "Shortcut" episode. It's a shortened version of this week's more detailed full episode, which is also available on our feed.The Australian Federal Police have released a short podcast series to mark the ten year anniversary of the downing of flight MH17 in Ukraine. It's called Search Among the Sunflowers. The title reflects the surreal spectacle that faced the ten member team of AFP officers who were among the first international investigators allowed to enter the site. All 298 people on board were killed, including 38 people who called Australia home. Officer Hilda Sirec, who is now Assistant Commissioner of the AFP, was part of that first small team and she joins us on Australian True Crime to talk about the mission.Search Among The Sunflowers is available now, wherever you get your podcasts.Send us a question by recording a voice message here.Click here to subscribe to ATC Plus on Apple Podcasts and access all ATC episodes early and ad-free, as well as exclusive bonus episodes. CREDITS:Host: Meshel Laurie. You can find her on Instagram Guest: AFP Assistant Commissioner, Hilda SirecExecutive Producer/Editor: Matthew TankardThis episode contains extra content from the ABC, CNN and TRT World.GET IN TOUCH:https://www.australiantruecrimethepodcast.com/Follow the show on Instagram @australiantruecrimepodcast and Facebook Send us a question to have played on the show by recording a voice message here.Email the show at AusTrueCrimePodcast@gmail.com Become a subscriber to Australian True Crime Plus here: https://plus.acast.com/s/australiantruecrime. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

*) Israel hits Gaza school, killing 11 people in devastating strike An Israeli air strike has hit a school in northern Gaza, where thousands of displaced Palestinians were taking shelter. At least 11 people were killed, with 22 others wounded, including women and children, according to Gaza's Health Ministry. The Israeli military confirmed the strike, which took place at the Al Falouja School in the Jabalia refugee camp. Footage from the scene showed rescue workers pulling victims from the debris as crowds gathered in shock. *) Netanyahu's attendance at the UN General Assembly is a shame: Erdogan Turkish President Erdogan didn't hold back, calling Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu's presence at the UN General Assembly “a shame” for the global community. Speaking to reporters at the end of his diplomatic visit to New York, Erdogan said it was a betrayal to the memories of those killed — from babies to UN officials — in Gaza. He also pointed out the strange behaviour of the Israeli delegation after his speech, saying, “They can't defend themselves. Their stance says it all.” *) World can't wait for Israel's nod to implement two-state solution: Fidan Türkiye's Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan criticised Israel for dragging its feet on the two-state solution, warning it could destabilise the entire region. Speaking at a meeting on Gaza at the UN, Fidan made it clear — the world can't wait for Israel's approval. He highlighted a recent Israeli parliament decision that rejected the idea of a Palestinian state, calling it “pure greed” and urging action. *) Africa unites at UNGA to demand permanent UNSC seats ‘with veto power' At the UN General Assembly, African leaders stood united in their long-standing demand for permanent seats on the UN Security Council — and they want veto power too. Charles Milupi, a Zambian minister, told TRT World that Africa's message is getting louder, with leaders saying it's time for better representation at the United Nations. Milupi also called on the current permanent members — the US, UK, China, Russia and France — to listen and reform the Security Council. *) Zelenskyy presents ‘victory plan' to Biden In a high-stakes meeting at the White House, US President Joe Biden and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy discussed the ongoing conflict with Russia. The US had just announced nearly $8 billion in new aid for Ukraine. Biden laid out plans to ramp up security assistance, while Zelenskyy presented his strategy for achieving victory over Russia.

Cormac Smith has worked in Public Relations and Corporate Communications for over three decades. In 2016 he travelled to Ukraine to take up a special appointment as the ‘Strategic Communication Advisor' to Pavlo Klimkin, then the Foreign Minister of Ukraine. He was attached to the British Embassy in Kyiv but was embedded in Ukraine's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the first foreigner to hold such a position. While in Kyiv, he also advised and provided training for five other government ministries and worked directly with three other cabinet ministers: Health, Education and the Deputy Prime Minister. ---------- Philip Ingram is a journalist and consultant who has built on a long and senior military career as an intelligence, counterintelligence, security officer, and planner. Philip has extensive business experience, especially in steel manufacturing. He also has extensive media experience, appearing on the BBC, Sky News and Radio networks, international networks including Al Jazeera, TRT World, CNN, ABC, CBC, Japanese NTV and many others. ---------- LINKS: https://defencebrink.uk/ https://x.com/philipingmbe https://x.com/CormacS63 ---------- SUPPORT THE CHANNEL: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/siliconcurtain https://www.patreon.com/siliconcurtain ---------- TRUSTED CHARITIES ON THE GROUND: Save Ukraine https://www.saveukraineua.org/ Superhumans - Hospital for war traumas https://superhumans.com/en/ UNBROKEN - Treatment. Prosthesis. Rehabilitation for Ukrainians in Ukraine https://unbroken.org.ua/ Come Back Alive https://savelife.in.ua/en/ Chefs For Ukraine - World Central Kitchen https://wck.org/relief/activation-chefs-for-ukraine UNITED24 - An initiative of President Zelenskyy https://u24.gov.ua/ Serhiy Prytula Charity Foundation https://prytulafoundation.org NGO “Herojam Slava” https://heroiamslava.org/ kharpp - Reconstruction project supporting communities in Kharkiv and Przemyśl https://kharpp.com/ NOR DOG Animal Rescue https://www.nor-dog.org/home/ ---------- PLATFORMS: Twitter: https://twitter.com/CurtainSilicon Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/siliconcurtain/ Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/4thRZj6NO7y93zG11JMtqm Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/finkjonathan/ Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/siliconcurtain ---------- Welcome to the Silicon Curtain podcast. Please like and subscribe if you like the content we produce. It will really help to increase the popularity of our content in YouTube's algorithm. Our material is now being made available on popular podcasting platforms as well, such as Spotify and Apple Podcasts.

*) Chief of Israeli intel unit quits over October 7 failure The head of the Israeli army's notorious intelligence and surveillance unit has accepted responsibility for failing to prevent a raid by Hamas fighters on October 7 last year. Brigadier General Yossi Sariel, who led Unit 8200, told Chief of Staff Herzl Halevi he's resigning. Sariel is one of seven high-ranking officials, including top military leaders, to step down amid backlash over Hamas' attacks on Israeli military sites and settlements, once Palestinian lands. *) New video, witnesses refute Israel's account of Eygi's killing The Israeli army says Eygi was "very likely" hit unintentionally during a "violent riot" aimed at the "key instigator." But new evidence opposes that claim. Video and witness reports suggest that the killing of Turkish-American activist Aysenur Ezgi Eygi in the occupied West Bank was in fact a targeted assassination. In this Washington Post's investigation, it shows that Eygi was shot after 30 minutes when the clashes in Beita had ended. *) Biden, Gaza 'key factors' driving US support for Africa UNSC seats The US push for two permanent UN Security Council seats for Africa and a rotating seat for island nations is tied to boosting Biden's legacy and shifting focus from Israel's war on Gaza, a UN expert told TRT World. Richard Gowan of the International Crisis Group said, "Biden might be remembered as the president who paved the way for Council reform." Gowan added that the move helps distract from the US's controversial vetoes on truce calls in Gaza saying "The US wants to be seen as a reformer, not a spoiler." *) Kim's visit reveals North Korea's uranium enrichment plant for first time North Korea's Kim Jong-un has been wanting to expand his country's nuclear capabilities for a while now. And now for the first time ever, he has publicly disclosed a uranium enrichment facility. Kim said he is aiming to exponentially boost the production of nuclear weapons for self-defence amid growing nuclear threats from the US and its allies. *) UNESCO 'deeply concerned' about possible looting from Sudan museums UNESCO has sounded the alarm over armed groups reportedly looting museums and heritage sites in war-torn Sudan. It said it was particularly concerned by reports of looting at the National Museum of Sudan, as well as the Khalifa House Museum in Omdurman and Nyala Museum in South Darfur. The National Museum, which opened in the 1970s, has been home to more than 2,700 objects including some important pieces from the ancient Egyptian Pharaonic dynasties and Nubian culture.

*) Islamic Action Front becomes largest party in Jordan parliament Jordan's opposition party, the Islamist Action Front (IAF), made a big splash in the latest parliamentary election. Early results show the front bagging up to a fifth of the seats. The party's leader Wael al Saqqa said, “We've earned the people's trust, and now the real work begins.” But pro-government and tribal groups still hold the upper hand in the 138-seat parliament. *) 'Biggest lie': Harris under fire for falsely accusing Hamas of rapes The US presidential candidate Kamala Harris might have received accolades for taking on Donald Trump in the debate. But she is facing backlash for her false remarks about Hamas fighters allegedly raping Israeli women during the October 7 attacks. “It's shameful that Kamala Harris is spreading atrocity propaganda on national TV,” said political strategist Ashish Prashar in an interview with TRT World. Prashar added, “She's pushing these lies to justify Israel's right to genocide.” *) Debris with remains of 10,000 people — Rebuilding Gaza is an uphill battle Rebuilding Gaza after Israel's war will cost billions of dollars, according to United Nations estimates. The destruction caused by Israel's military, with US-supplied weapons, has left Gaza in ruins. Clearing the 40 million tonnes of rubble alone could take 15 years and cost up to $600 million, the UN warns. With such massive devastation, the road to recovery will be long and costly for the blockaded enclave. *) Netanyahu seeks to choreograph Israeli probe to dodge ICC arrest warrant Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu might have a trick up his sleeve that he believes can help him avoid the war crime proceedings at the International Criminal Court. His justice minister Yariv Levin has asked the Attorney General to investigate. Netanyahu and Defense Minister Yoav Gallant over their handling of the war on Gaza. The Israeli Channel 12 says this move is actually an effort to shield them from potential arrest warrants by the International Criminal Court. The strategy suggests that the ICC should step back if domestic legal proceedings are considered sufficient. *) Australian breakdancer Rachael Gunn crowned world's top female breakdancer Australian Olympic breakdancer Rachael "Raygun" Gunn, once mocked for her kangaroo-inspired routine at the Olympics, is now the world's number one breakdancer. At 37, Gunn faced ridicule on social media and late-night shows for her performance and outfit at the recent Olympics, with many questioning her place on the team. However, she's had the last laugh, rising to the top of the global rankings - on the basis of what's being called a technicality.

In this week's UK update, Anton was joined by Enda Brady, Presenter at TRT World, to discuss Michael Gove's calls for criminal prosecutions against companies, including Irish firm Kingspan, involved in Grenfell Tower cladding. They also touched on Lucy Letby's plans to launch a fresh appeal, and Jeremy Kyle defending his presenting style.

James M. Dorsey, senior fellow at Singapore's S Rajaratnam School of International Studies talks to TRT World about Gaza ceasefire negotiations and unpacks what Washington could do to bring Israel to the negotiation table.

This week on the ‘What's Your Pineapple Express?' series, Scott had the honor of sitting down and speaking with an incredible leader – Jason Howk. Jason leads a non-profit organization called Global Friends of Afghanistan and has continued doing amazing work while keeping Afghanistan at the forefront. Join us this week as Jason shares his many years of experience in Afghanistan, gives us insight into some very important information, and shares what we need to learn from the abandonment of Afghanistan. Some of the things he reveals about what happened with this abandonment and more importantly, what's happening right under our noses in this growing safe haven will blow you away. Own Every Room - https://rooftopleadership.com/owneveryroom/ Nobody is Coming to Save You - https://www.hachettebookgroup.com/titles/scott-mann/nobody-is-coming-to-save-you/9781546008286/?lens=center-street Scottmann.com  Join Rooftop Nation! Website: https://www.rooftopleadership.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ScottMannAuthor Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scottmannauthor LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rooftop-leadership Twitter: https://twitter.com/RooftopLeader Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYOQ7CDJ6uSaGvmfxYC_skQ  Select Afghanistan experiences and published works SummaryJason Criss Howk spent 23 years in the U.S. Army as an Infantry and Sapper Paratrooper, and also as a South Asia Foreign Area Officer (Soldier-Diplomat).  His work in Afghanistan began in 2002 and has continued until the present day as he leads the Global Friends of Afghanistan educational non-profit organization that monitors and leads discussions on Afghan issues. Jason has worked on Afghanistan portfolios at the tactical, operational, strategic, national policy and international policy levels. He has taken part in a variety of missions to include military, diplomatic, intelligence, academic, and humanitarian efforts. During his Afghanistan work Jason worked daily with dozens of generals, ambassadors, and political appointees with Afghan portfolios. Due to his assignments and knowledge of the topic, Jason is one of the few Americans that has been privy to the discussions of all 4 presidential administrations as they planned their Afghanistan policy. Jason studied both Arabic and Dari at the Defense Language Institute, is a professor at the USAF Special Operations School, and is a Malone Fellow in Arab and Islamic Studies. He holds a Master's Degree in South Asia and Middle East Security Studies from the Naval Postgraduate School, is a CGSC graduate, and was a term-member of the Council on Foreign Relations from 2010-2015. Jason is an award-winning author who has written 4 books in English and has published over 225 works since 2008 in over 40 outlets. As a professor, lecturer, and columnist he focuses on Afghanistan, Islam, terrorism, and various National Security topics. For his work on Afghanistan Major Howk earned the Legion of Merit award for his years of exceptionally meritorious service as a Soldier-Statesman, and two Bronze Star Medals. He also earned the Afghanistan Governmental Success medal from the President of Afghanistan. Afghanistan ExperiencesSep 2002-Sep 2003       Sep-Nov 2003: Operations officer Coalition Task Force 82. Engineer Operations Officer on MG Vines General Staff at Bagram Airfield. Focus on engineer support to daily counter-terrorism operations across the country. His key effort was the completion of the FOB Salerno Airfield and Heliport in Khost province. Tactical and Operational level experiences in various Eastern Provinces.Nov 2002-Sep 2003: Aide De Camp to MG Karl Eikenberry as he took over as Chief of the Office of Military Cooperation-Afghanistan at the U.S. Embassy Kabul and also as the U.S. Security Coordinator. They worked daily with Afghan cabinet members across all parts of the government for the first year of the interim government and got to know all of them intimately. MG Eikenberry was tasked with implementing the international Security Sector Reform program in Afghanistan, and as Chief OMC-A creating the Afghan National Army and MOD from scratch. Their typical daily interactions included the leaders of UNAMA, NATO-Nation Embassies, ISAF, the 3-star US Forces Commander, CENTCOM, OSD, the Joint Staff, the Intelligence Community, regional ambassadors, the Special Forces leaders training the ANA, and the US Ambassador. For the majority of the year Jason was the sole note-taker in over 4,000 hours of meetings and the drafter of reports to State, OSD, and CENTCOM.2004-July 2007During an assignment in TRADOC Jason began to create and teach courses in the Army and at civilian institutions about Afghan and Islamic culture. He helped the Engineer School develop their Cultural, Counter-insurgency, and Counter-IED training for 2LTs deploying to Afghanistan and Iraq. During company command the Army selected Jason for the highly competitive Foreign Area Officer (FAO) program after completing a fellowship in Oman where he studied their insurgencies and how they rebuilt their nation after those conflicts. He continued to study Afghanistan and stayed in touch with his former boss LTG Karl Eikenberry who was the Combined Forces commander in Afghanistan.2007-2009 FAO TrainingIn FAO training he obtained a Master's Degree in South Asia and Middle East Security Studies at the Naval Postgraduate School in 2008. At NPS Jason focused on Afghanistan and the Oman counter-insurgency campaigns. He published a thesis on Oman's COIN and CT lessons which was distributed to his former bosses LTG Eikenberry, LTG McChrystal, and GEN Petraeus. He also wrote a directed study on the creation of the Afghan Military and the US Security Sector Reform efforts that was published as a monograph by the US Army War College in 2009 with a foreword by GEN McChrystal. That study was completed after many interviews with LTG Karl Eikenberry who was then assigned to NATO, just prior to his selection as Ambassador to Afghanistan.From 2008-2009 Jason attended Arabic language training at DLI until the day LTG McChrystal was nominated by President Obama to command ISAF. He was immediately ordered to the Pentagon to prepare LTG McChrystal for senate confirmation and to assist him when he took command in Kabul.2009-2010 As ADC to LTG McChrystal, Jason helped prepare him for his assignment and attended all meetings with Legislative and Executive branch leaders in Washington. Within hours of the Senate confirmation, they flew to Brussels to meet with NATO leaders and then onwards to Kabul Afghanistan. In Kabul Jason helped GEN McChrystal form trusting relationships with the same Afghan leaders Jason worked closely with when they first formed the government in 2002.For the next 2 months Jason traveled with GEN McChrystal to over half the provinces to listen to NATO and Afghan forces, and Afghan leaders to better understand the war.  Jason assisted COMISAF during the strategic review of the U.S. and NATO Afghanistan policy, often quietly liaising between GEN McChrystal and Ambassador Eikenberry, his new and old bosses.After the strategic review was sent to CENTCOM Jason was selected to initiate and design the NATO interagency team focused on reintegration — i.e., how former insurgents could rejoin society. GEN McChrystal loaned Jason to support the incoming Reintegration Advisor who had worked on a similar mission in Iraq and would carry out sensitive diplomatic missions.As the Military Assistant and Political Advisor to retired British Lt Gen Sir Graeme Lamb. They worked with the Afghan government as they developed their peace and reintegration policy with foreign governments, diplomats, and international organizations. This also helped launch the US/NATO peace process and made Jason one of the insiders on Afghan peace talks for over a decade.2010-2014After a year in Dari (Afghan Farsi) language training at DLI, and graduation from the Army Command and General Staff College, Jason was assigned to the Joint Chiefs of Staff's Afghanistan and Pakistan Task Force. In that role, he led two of the highest-level interagency teams of Afghanistan and Pakistan experts in providing products and briefings for the Joint Chiefs of Staff and OSD leadership, and the White House.  Also in that role, his teams helped prepare four different Generals to assume senior commands in Afghanistan. One of his team's key efforts was monitoring and helping U.S. leaders prepare for diplomatic negotiations with the Taliban.2015-2021After retiring in 2015, Jason continued his focus on Afghanistan and Islam as a professor at numerous institutes and continued to advise the U.S. and Afghan governments, and international bodies.From 2016 to 2017, he served as an advisor on the Presidential Transition Team's National Security cell focused on the Afghan peace process and foreign relations with Islamic nations. He contributed ideas to both the 2017 National Security Strategy and 2018 National Strategy for Counterterrorism.From 2017 onwards he served as an advisor on conflict resolution to the U.S. government, NATO member states, parts of the U.N., the Afghan President's NSC staff, and the Afghan National Defense and Security Forces leadership.Jason was invited to give presentations at the 2019 and 2020 Central and South Asia Military Intelligence conferences at U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM). His topics included the future of the ANDSF, and the Unconventional Warfare efforts of Pakistan against Afghan and NATO forces.Jason led a USIP project team to assess post-conflict security in Afghanistan that culminated in a an invitation from the Afghan President and UN Chief in Kabul to give a presentation to over 70 nations at the 2020 U.N. Donor Conference on Afghanistan in Geneva.A second USIP project allowed his team to remain involved in the peace process until August 2021 as part of a U.S. Institute of Peace project authorized to conduct Track-2 diplomacy while talking to the Afghan government, various parts of Afghan society, and Taliban supporters.From 2019-2021 during both USIP projects his team took part in the USIP-led discussions that contributed to the congressionally-mandated Afghanistan Study Group Report. “A Pathway for Peace in Afghanistan” was published in February 2021.August 2021 OnwardsAfter the collapse of the Afghan republic while Jason was virtually assisting the evacuation of at-risk Afghans from Kabul, he and his colleagues formed the Global Friends of Afghanistan non-profit (GFA) to speak and write about Afghanistan and ensure the topic of Afghanistan was not removed from the daily news, and to help Afghans raise their voices to the outside world. On 1 September 2022 GFA held their inaugural annual conference with Georgetown University to discuss the evacuation and resettlement of Afghans, and the humanitarian crisis and security collapse in Afghanistan. Writing ExperienceSummaryJason has written 5 books, was on the editing team of the FAO Association International Affairs Journal, and was the senior editor for A Voice for Two Nations blog. He has published over 225 articles, essays, and news reports in over 40 outlets. He is a mentor to writers and a member of the Military Writers Guild, where he edits and co-authors with new writers. Most recently he has begun publishing U.S. veterans and Afghan book authors at Tamarisk Press a niche publishing assistance non-profit. His work has been published in the following outlets: CNN, Fast Company, Foreign Policy, The National Interest, ClearanceJobs News, Military Times, The Cipher Brief, US Institute of Peace, The Global Observatory, Small Wars Journal, Divergent Options, From The Green Notebook, The Bridge, The Forge, The Foreign Service Journal, The FAOA Journal, Observer, Task&Purpose, Business Insider, Real Clear Defense and Politics, SOFX The Special Operations Forces Network, US Army War College, Naval Postgraduate School, O-Dark-Thirty, and in various Afghan newspapers like Reporterly, and Hasht e Subh. He also discusses Afghanistan, Terrorism, and Islam on CNN, Afghan International Persian, TRT World, and Voice of America, and appears on other news and radio outlets.Select Publications Books2012, Lions in the Path of Stability and Security: Oman's Response to Pressing Issues in the Middle East. My 2008 NPS thesis was published in Oman in Arabic.2017, The Quran: A Chronological Modern English Interpretation. Gold Medal Winner at the National Indie Excellence Awards2021, Leaders Always Go a Little Further: ...Unless They Trip. Foreword by LtGen Sir Graeme Lamb.2021, Ali's American Dream: An Iraqi Refugee's Story of Survival and Triumph. Foreword by SIV recipient Nasirullah Safi formerly of Afghanistan.2022, U.S. War Options in Afghanistan: Choose Your Own Path. Foreword by Afghan Colonel A. Rahman Rahmani, a would-be terrorist who was deradicalized and later flew special operations combat missions against the Taliban-Haqqani network and aided evacuation of Afghans Pilots in 2021. 2020-2022, Lead Editor of the Foreign Area Officer Association book, Culture Shock: Leadership Lessons from the Military's Diplomatic Corps. Foreword by LTG (Ret) Charles Hooper. Publishing advisor and book formatting for 4 books. 2021: Brand Elverston's Proclivity and Nasirullah Safi's Get the Terp Up Here!2022: Brand Elverston's Instruments of Ignorance and Nasirullah Safi's Indispensable: Tale of a Military Interpreter Various Studies (contributor and author/co-author)2009, US Strategy Review of US and NATO Afghanistan Policy, ISAF2009, A Case Study in Security Sector Reform: Learning from Security Sector Reform/Building in Afghanistan (October 2002-September 2003), US Army War College press2010 Afghanistan Peace and Reintegration Programme, Islamic Republic of Afghanistan2021, “No Going Backward”: Afghanistan's Post–Peace Accord Security Sector, USIP2022, Afghan Women: “I Don't Feel Safe.” A Global Friends of Afghanistan survey report, GFA Select recent articles and columnsAug 2022, Afghanistan Has Become a Terrorist Paradise, The National InterestAug 2022, How Can We Help Afghanistan? Ask the Afghans, The National InterestMar 2022, Information Operations: How is Ukraine Different Than Afghanistan? ClearanceJobs NewsMar 2022, Lessons Learned from the Last 20 Years: 9 Flaws in the American Way of War, ClearanceJobsDec 2021, U.S. Foreign Affairs Influence and the Afghanistan Fallout for the U.S., ClearanceJobs NewsOct 2021, Why Afghan Peace Talks Got Derailed, ClearanceJobs NewsSep 2021, ‘You Are Fighting in the Wrong Country.' How We Failed Afghan Policy Miserably, The Pilot19 Aug 2021, Taliban Takeover in Kabul: Pakistani Invasion Complete in Afghanistan, ClearanceJobs9 Aug 2021, Where is the Taliban with the Doha Peace Process? ClearanceJobs NewsMay 2021, Terrorists Kill Around 90 Afghan Students: The World Shrugs, ClearanceJobs NewsApr 2021, Afghanistan Needs a Weaker President: Decentralizing power can be key to long-term peace, Foreign Policy, with Shabnam NasimiFeb 2021, Taliban Keep Showing True Colors with Mockery of the Doha Peace Process, ClearanceJobsJan 2021, Path to Peace in Afghanistan for the Biden Administration, ClearanceJobs NewsDec 2020, Time to Make the Taliban Diplomatically Uncomfortable, ClearanceJobs NewsFeb 2019, America, don't abandon Afghanistan…Again, CNN, with Abdul Rahman Rahmani

James M. Dorsey tells TRT World that the escalating hostilities raise more questions than they provides answers.

*) Hezbollah launches retaliatory strikes against Israel Hezbollah has announced it launched attacks on Israel with a large number of drones in response to the assassination of the group's top commander in Beirut last month. The Lebanon-based group said it targeted an identified "special military target” as well as Israel's Iron Dome platforms and other sites. Meanwhile, Israeli media reported that 200 rockets were fired from Lebanon into Israel. *) Israeli military claims 100 fighter jets raid Hezbollah positions An Israeli army spokesman has claimed about 100 Israeli fighter jets raided Hezbollah positions, destroying rocket launchers. Earlier, the Israeli army said in a statement that Hezbollah is "preparing to fire missiles and rockets toward Israeli territory”. The Israeli army gave an ultimatum to residents in southern Lebanon to "leave immediately." *) Israel leaves mere 9.5 percent of Gaza for civilians The Palestinian Civil Defence in Gaza has said that Israeli forces have turned the designated "safe humanitarian zones" within Gaza into heaps of rubble and ashes. The Israeli attacks have left only 9.5 percent of the Palestinian territory as so-called “safe zones” for displaced civilians. Initially, these zones covered 230 square kilometres or 63 percent of Gaza's total area but as the Israeli military offensives continued, the size of these areas shrank dramatically. *) France arrests founder and CEO of Telegram, Pavel Durov Pavel Durov, billionaire founder and CEO of the Telegram messaging app has been arrested at an airport outside Paris. Durov was travelling aboard his private jet. His arrest was triggered by a “lack of moderators on Telegram”, which according to French authorities allowed criminal activity to go on undeterred on the messaging app. *) TRT World's ‘Holy Redemption' exposes Israeli settler violence Istanbul's iconic Atlas Cinema was packed for the launch of TRT World's investigative documentary “Holy Redemption”. The documentary exposes how illegal Jewish settlers are systematically driving out Palestinians from their homes in the occupied West Bank. In addition, a panel of experts discussed various aspects of the Palestinian struggle ahead of the premiere of the investigation carried out by TRT World journalists at great risk in December last year. The Director General of TRT, Mehmet Zahid Sobaci, said the documentary also sheds light on one of the most disturbing methods of occupation in the world.

Cormac Smith has worked in Public Relations and Corporate Communications for over three decades. In 2016 he travelled to Ukraine to take up a special appointment as the ‘Strategic Communication Advisor' to Pavlo Klimkin, then the Foreign Minister of Ukraine. He was attached to the British Embassy in Kyiv but was embedded in Ukraine's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the first foreigner to hold such a position. While in Kyiv, he also advised and provided training for five other government ministries and worked directly with three other cabinet ministers: Health, Education and the Deputy Prime Minister. ---------- Philip Ingram is a journalist and consultant who has built on a long and senior military career as an intelligence, counterintelligence, security officer, and planner. Philip has extensive business experience, especially in steel manufacturing. He also has extensive media experience, appearing on the BBC, Sky News and Radio networks, international networks including Al Jazeera, TRT World, CNN, ABC, CBC, Japanese NTV and many others. ---------- LINKS: https://defencebrink.uk/ https://x.com/philipingmbe https://x.com/PhilipIngMBE ---------- SUPPORT THE CHANNEL: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/siliconcurtain https://www.patreon.com/siliconcurtain ---------- TRUSTED CHARITIES ON THE GROUND: Save Ukraine https://www.saveukraineua.org/ Superhumans - Hospital for war traumas https://superhumans.com/en/ UNBROKEN - Treatment. Prosthesis. Rehabilitation for Ukrainians in Ukraine https://unbroken.org.ua/ Come Back Alive https://savelife.in.ua/en/ Chefs For Ukraine - World Central Kitchen https://wck.org/relief/activation-chefs-for-ukraine UNITED24 - An initiative of President Zelenskyy https://u24.gov.ua/ Serhiy Prytula Charity Foundation https://prytulafoundation.org NGO “Herojam Slava” https://heroiamslava.org/ kharpp - Reconstruction project supporting communities in Kharkiv and Przemyśl https://kharpp.com/ NOR DOG Animal Rescue https://www.nor-dog.org/home/ ---------- PLATFORMS: Twitter: https://twitter.com/CurtainSilicon Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/siliconcurtain/ Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/4thRZj6NO7y93zG11JMtqm Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/finkjonathan/ Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/siliconcurtain ---------- Welcome to the Silicon Curtain podcast. Please like and subscribe if you like the content we produce. It will really help to increase the popularity of our content in YouTube's algorithm. Our material is now being made available on popular podcasting platforms as well, such as Spotify and Apple Podcasts.

Kirsty Lang onSusan Wojcicki, the first woman to lead a major company in Silicon Valley.Lord Colwyn, a jazz loving politician who cared passionately about improving the nation's teeth.Sir Ernest Hall, a piano playing entrepreneur, who oversaw the regeneration of a former textile mill in Halifax.Mísia, the musician who found international acclaim by bringing a modern twist to traditional Portuguese Fado music. Interviewee: Mike Isaac Interviewee: Lady Colwyn Interviewee: Lord Hunt of Kings Heath Interviewee: Jeremy Hall Interviewee: Carmo CruzProducer: Gareth Nelson-DaviesArchive used:Susan Wojcicki on Studio 1.0, Bloomberg Technology, YouTube upload 15/11/2016; Susan Wojcicki, Leadership Live with David Rubenstein, YouTube uploaded 28/05/2020; Susan Wojcicki, Washington Post, YouTube uploaded 18/06/2020; Susan Wojcicki, CNN Business, YouTube uploaded 04/05/2017; The Secret Life of The Third Baron Colwyn, BBC Radio 4, 24/05/1979; Lord Colwyn, House Of Lords Dental Care debate, Parliament TV 01/02/2018; Lord Hall speech, Live Music, House of Lords, Parliament TV, 27/01/2012; Westminster Special: The Ballot for the Last Hereditaries, BBC Radio 4, 05/11/1999; Sir Ernest Hall, Desert Island Discs, BBC Radio 4, 26/04/1998; Sir Ernest Hall, Private Passions, BBC Radio 3, 18/09/2005; Sir Ernest Hall – Busoni Piano Concerto op.39 – Prologo e Introito, Sir Ernest Hall YouTube channel, Sheffield Symphony Orchestra - Halifax Choral Society - John Langstaff, uploaded 30/10/2022; Mísia interview, Showcase: Misia - Exploring emotions with Fado, TRT World, YouTube uploaded 09/06/2016;

James M. Dorsey, adjunct senior fellow at Singapore's S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies talks to TRT World about the latest round of Gaza ceasefire talks in Doha and the prospects of a lasting truce in Israel's war on Gaza.

GUEST 1 OVERVIEW: Claire is a Political commentator and former SpAd to Minister for Immigration. She has over 15 years experience in Parliament and now contributes to media outlets such as Sky News, GB News and TRT World.   X: @Claire_Pearsall   GUEST 2 OVERVIEW: Behaviour and Communication Expert David Charalambous, is the founder of Reaching People and a partner of the World Council for Health Coalition. With 25 years of experience consulting both multinational clients and individuals, he brings a wealth of knowledge to understanding how people are influenced. Through Reaching People, he delves into various aspects such as cognitive dissonance and storytelling to analyse the dynamics of reaching people. His most recent video on influence offers valuable insights into this topic.   GUEST 3 OVERVIEW: Stelios describes himself as a classical liberal individualist. Stelios advocates for national sovereignty and conservative values alongside anti-authoritarianism. Stelios is a regular on Lotus Eaters.

NEWSREADER INTRO: This is TRT World's Daily News Brief for Monday, August 5th. *) Israel's Netanyahu sets new demands on Gaza prisoner swap deal Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has added new conditions to a proposed hostage swap deal with Hamas, including exiling around 150 Palestinian prisoners from the country, according to local media. Among the conditions is the deportation of some Palestinian prisoners who will be released from Israeli prisons to foreign countries, Israel's Channel 13 reported, citing unnamed sources. The US, Qatar, and Egypt have been trying to broker a prisoner exchange and ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, but efforts have stalled due to Netanyahu's refusal to meet Hamas's demands to stop the war. *) Sirens blare as missiles, UAVs fired from Lebanon target northern Israel Missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles were reportedly launched from Lebanese territory into northern Israel, an Israeli official said. An official spokesperson for the Israeli army confirmed to Anadolu news agency that projectiles originated from Lebanon and targeted northern regions of Israel. The spokesperson refrained from providing details regarding any casualties or injuries resulting from the attacks. *) New violence kills scores in Bangladesh, students seek Hasina's resignation At least 93 people have been killed while hundreds of others injured across Bangladesh as students took to the streets demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, local media reported. The country's Prothom Alo daily reported that the people were killed in more than 15 districts as governing party armed groups swooped on protesters and opened fire. Authorities declared a three-day public holiday as people were killed in clashes between protesters on one side and police and governing Awami League party supporters on the other side. *) North Korea unveils 250 missile launchers, boosts nuclear readiness North Korean leader Kim Jong-un oversaw the delivery of a new tactical ballistic missile system to troops, state media reported. Kim also gave a speech at the ceremonial event in Pyongyang where 250 new tactical ballistic missile launchers were unveiled. The launchers have been described by state media as a powerful up-to-date tactical attack weapon “personally designed by Kim and ready to be transferred to KPA units”. And finally… *) UK far-right protesters target Birmingham asylum hotel with projectiles A hotel known to have sheltered asylum seekers was targeted near the central English city of Birmingham, police said, as violent anti-immigration rallies led by far-right protesters shake parts of Britain. “A large group of individuals” have been “throwing projectiles, smashing windows, starting fires and targeting police” at the hotel in the town of Tamworth, with one officer injured, Staffordshire Police said in a statement. Riots first flared in Southport following a frenzied knife attack at a Taylor Swift-themed dance party in the northwest coastal city, before spreading up and down England.

GUEST OVERVIEW - Claire Pearsall is a Political commentator and former SpAd to Minister for Immigration. She has over 15 years experience in Parliament and now contributes to media outlets such as Sky News, GB News and TRT World.   X: @Claire_Pearsall   GUEST OVERVIEW - Catherine McBride is a free market economist with 19 years experience; Catherine is a member of the Institute for Economic Affairs and also the Centre for Brexit Policy and she also advices the UK Government on trade.  

NEWSREADER INTRO: This is TRT World's Daily News Brief for Monday, July, 15th. *) Gaza truce talks haven't paused, military chief survived — Hamas https://www.trtworld.com/middle-east/live-blog-gaza-truce-talks-havent-paused-military-chief-survived-hamas-18183820 Hamas says that Gaza ceasefire talks continue and the group's military commander is in good health, a day after the Israeli military targeted Mohammed Deif. Hamas' spokesperson Jihad Taha said, “There is no doubt that the horrific massacres will impact any efforts in the negotiations” but added that “efforts and endeavours of the mediators remain ongoing.” Hamas political officials also insisted that communication channels remained functional between the leadership inside and outside Gaza after the strike in the enclave's south. *) Türkiye continues to fight global injustices: Altun https://www.trtworld.com/turkiye/turkiye-continues-to-fight-global-injustices-altun-18183797 Türkiye marks the eighth anniversary of the July 15 coup attempt, which killed 253 people and wounded over 2,700. On the eve of July 15 this year, Türkiye's Communications Directorate arranged a concert to commemorate July 15 Democracy and National Unity Day. Türkiye's Communications Director, Fahrettin Altun, stressed Türkiye's resilience against the efforts to undermine its sovereignty, denouncing the 2016 coup as a scheme by a terrorist group serving global exploitation interests. *) World leaders react in ‘shock' to Trump rally shooting https://www.trtworld.com/us-and-canada/world-leaders-react-in-shock-to-trump-rally-shooting-18183592 From Asia to Europe, world leaders around the globe reacted with shock to the wounding of former US president Donald Trump in an assassination attempt at an election rally. "Once again, we are witnessing unacceptable acts of violence against political representatives," European Union's foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell said. Regarding the attack, Turkish President Erdogan said, "I strongly condemn the assassination attempt against the 45th President of the United States and presidential candidate, Mr. Donald Trump." *) ‘Smell of blood' fills Gaza hospital after deadly Israeli strike: UN https://www.trtworld.com/middle-east/smell-of-blood-fills-gaza-hospital-after-deadly-israeli-strike-un-18183786 The UN Agency for Palestinian Refugees reported "horrific scenes" at a hospital in southern Gaza following a deadly Israeli strike on a "humanitarian zone" for displaced Palestinians. At least 90 people have been killed and nearly 300 others injured in a strike that targeted the Al Mawasi area of Khan Younis in southern Gaza. The Israeli army claimed the attack targeted Hamas' military commander, Mohamed Deif, and his deputy, which Hamas rejected and called it a "cover-up of a horrible massacre." *) Algeria suspends art festivals in solidarity with war-torn Gaza https://www.trtworld.com/arts-and-culture/algeria-suspends-art-festivals-in-solidarity-with-war-torn-gaza-18183695 Algeria's Culture Ministry announced that it is suspending all major art festivals this summer in solidarity with Gaza, which has been under a devastating Israeli onslaught since last October. Culture Minister Soraya Mouloudji said in a statement that the ministry will instead intensify activities that express the country's solidarity with the Palestinian cause. Mouloudji said the decision comes from Algeria's supportive, fixed position toward "the Palestinian cause and its brave legitimate struggle against Zionist brutality."

We talk to Enda Brady, London-based presenter of TRT World.

Philip Ingram is a journalist and consultant who has built on a long and senior military career as an intelligence, counterintelligence, security officer, and planner. Philip has extensive business experience, especially in steel manufacturing, and has set up companies from scratch, merged companies, taken over companies post sale assets. He also has extensive media experience, appearing on the BBC, Sky News and Radio networks, international networks including Al Jazeera, TRT World, CNN, ABC, CBC, Japanese NTV and many others. ---------- LINKS: https://x.com/PhilipIngMBE https://greyharemedia.com/philip-ingram-mbe-bio/ ---------- SUPPORT THE CHANNEL: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/siliconcurtain https://www.patreon.com/siliconcurtain ---------- TRUSTED CHARITIES ON THE GROUND: kharpp - Reconstruction project supporting communities in Kharkiv and Przemyśl https://kharpp.com/ Save Ukraine https://www.saveukraineua.org/ Superhumans - Hospital for war traumas https://superhumans.com/en/ UNBROKEN - Treatment. Prosthesis. Rehabilitation for Ukrainians in Ukraine https://unbroken.org.ua/ Come Back Alive https://savelife.in.ua/en/ Chefs For Ukraine - World Central Kitchen https://wck.org/relief/activation-chefs-for-ukraine Ukrainian Freedom News https://www.ukrainianfreedomnews.com/donation/ UNITED24 - An initiative of President Zelenskyy https://u24.gov.ua/ Serhiy Prytula Charity Foundation https://prytulafoundation.org NGO “Herojam Slava” https://heroiamslava.org/ NOR DOG Animal Rescue https://www.nor-dog.org/home/ ---------- PLATFORMS: Twitter: https://twitter.com/CurtainSilicon Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/siliconcurtain/ Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/4thRZj6NO7y93zG11JMtqm Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/finkjonathan/ Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/siliconcurtain ---------- Welcome to the Silicon Curtain podcast. Please like and subscribe if you like the content we produce. It will really help to increase the popularity of our content in YouTube's algorithm. Our material is now being made available on popular podcasting platforms as well, such as Spotify and Apple Podcasts.

GUEST 1 OVERVIEW: Claire is a Political commentator and former SpAd to Minister for Immigration. She has over 15 years experience in Parliament and now contributes to media outlets such as Sky News, GB News and TRT World. X: @Claire_Pearsall GUEST 2 OVERVIEW: Debi Evans (SRN, PG Cert Autism) is UK Column's nursing correspondent. She is a past advisor to the UK Department of Health. GUEST 3 OVERVIEW: Tom Sullivan is a Journalist & Commentator. 

In a world where misinformation and conspiracy theories are commonplace, journalists have a critical role in reporting on the facts and communicating complex scientific issues like climate change. But how can journalists make the issue accessible and engaging to a wide audience? In this conversation, Enda Brady, host of "Round Table" on TRT World, shares his insights on harnessing the power of storytelling and facts in reporting on climate change. With over two decades of experience in journalism, Enda has a wealth of knowledge on the challenges and opportunities of reporting on the issue. He discusses the importance of using anecdotes, observations, and metaphors to communicate complex scientific information in a way that resonates with people. He also emphasises the importance of fact-based reporting, and the role that journalists play in holding those in power accountable. But can storytelling the facts really make a difference in the fight against climate change? Enda shares his thoughts on the need for leadership and collective action, and the role that individuals can play in building resilience and making a difference. Whether you're a journalist, a communicator, or simply interested in learning more about the world around you, this conversation is a must-watch. Tune in to hear Enda's insights on the power of storytelling and facts in reporting on climate change, and discover how journalists can help to save the planet.   HIGHLIGHTS:  0:02 Media leaders have a responsibility to balance positive and negative stories. 02:19 Beginning of journalism career through work experience 06:42 Social media has created echo chambers leading to the spread of conspiracy theories and misinformation. 08:47 The gap between traditional and social media sources is widening. 13:05 Storytelling facts can turbocharge your message 15:20 Climate change is a huge issue that requires individual action. 19:25 Balancing real experts with alternative perspectives 21:16 Balancing positive and negative news coverage on climate change 25:02 Leaders should educate consumers and implement sustainable initiatives 26:51 Invest in renewables and green energy for a sustainable future 30:25 Importance of election cycles and environmental policies 32:07 Leaders should prioritiSe long-term benefits for the country and the planet 35:57 Leadership changes needed for environmental progress 37:42 China's actions in Africa and renewable energy 41:27 Embracing resilience through challenging physical activities 43:17 Fitness is achievable with dedication 46:57 The elite sports mindset is valuable in any line of business 48:46 Better sleep is vital for athletic performance. 52:46 Resilience in the face of adversity 54:51 Embrace resilience and positivity in the face of challenges   REFERENCES:   Website: https://www.endabrady.com Linkedin: https://bit.ly/3RhwuGs Roundtable: https://bit.ly/3VAca5K   **********   This episode of Conversations on Climate is a podcast brought to you by UNITED RENEWABLES. We bring together the best minds from academia and business, to offer their experience and expertise in the face of climate change – from game theorists to corporate diplomats, and oil industry veterans to micro-algae entrepreneurs.    For more top-quality interviews with our incredible guests, subscribe to our YouTube channel or follow us on Twitter.   We'd love to have you join us!   Don't forget to share with your colleagues, friends, and family. We would love to hear your opinions and feedback, so please leave your comments on our platforms.   We talk about how the scope of the challenge before us is beyond that of any one individual or any one solution. We listen to thinkers, researchers, policymakers, and business leaders. They discuss a diversity of ideas and solutions to global climate and environmental issues and why they matter.   Season 3 is presented by Chris Caldwell and produced by UNITED RENEWABLES.   Tune into both the video and audio versions of this podcast NOW: https://www.unitedrenewables.co.uk/podcast   Please visit our YouTube channel, where all of our Conversations are available for you to enjoy.   SUBSCRIBE TO THE CHANNEL HERE: https://bit.ly/3GZpd7R  and ring the notification bell.   Join us on Twitter: https://bit.ly/3MnhuSf  Join us on Facebook: https://bit.ly/3Q5UKcj  Join us on LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/3tFEnK3    #leadership #organisationalbehaviour #climateaction #renewableenergy #conversationsonclimate #politics

GUEST 1 OVERVIEW: Claire is a Political commentator and former SpAd to Minister for Immigration. She has over 15 years experience in Parliament and now contributes to media outlets such as Sky News, GB News and TRT World. X: @Claire_Pearsall GUEST 2 OVERVIEW: Joachim Hagopian is a West Point graduate, former Army officer and author of “Don't Let the Bastards Getcha Down”. After the military, Joachim earned a master's degree in Clinical Psychology and worked as a licensed therapist. As an independent journalist for over eight years, Joachim has written hundreds of articles for many news sites, like Global Research, lewrockwell.com and The Government Rag. GUEST 3 OVERVIEW: Howard Cox is a Reform UK Parliamentary Candidate and the founder of the FairFuelUK Campaign. He was also a candidate for the London Mayor election in 2024 and successfully stopped £200 billion in government tax hikes.

GUEST OVERVIEW: Claire is a Political commentator and former SpAd to Minister for Immigration. She has over 15 years experience in Parliament and now contributes to media outlets such as Sky News, GB News and TRT World. X: @Claire_Pearsall

Jury convicts Donald Trump on all 34 charges in hush money trial https://www.trtworld.com/us-and-canada/jury-convicts-donald-trump-on-all-34-charges-in-hush-money-trial-18168112 Donald Trump has become the first former president to be convicted of felony crimes. A New York jury found Trump guilty of falsifying business records in a scheme to illegally influence the 2016 election through hush money payments to an adult movie actress. The verdict from the 12-person jury convicted Trump on all 34 counts after deliberating for 9.5 hours. *) Recognising Palestine generates positive momentum — Norway's ambassador https://www.trtworld.com/europe/recognising-palestine-generates-positive-momentum-norways-ambassador-18167646 The recognition of an independent Palestinian state strengthens the idea of the two-state solution to the longstanding issue of Israeli occupation of Palestinian land, Norway's ambassador to Türkiye told TRT World. Andreas Gaarder said “the intention is to contribute to creating a momentum and also to signal to the world community that this is an important issue that needs to be solved and it needs to be solved now.” Gaarder said Oslo has been involved in “hectic diplomatic activity” in Brussels in the past few days, while strongly advocating for the end of Israel's brutal war on Gaza and for long-lasting peace in the region. *) NY hospital fires nurse for Gaza ‘genocide' reference during award speech https://www.trtworld.com/discrimination/ny-hospital-fires-nurse-for-gaza-genocide-reference-during-award-speech-18167836 A nurse at New York University Langone Medical Center has been fired for referring to the “genocide” in Gaza during a speech accepting an award earlier this month. Hesen Jabr, a Palestinian American labour and delivery nurse, drew a link between her work and the suffering of mothers in Gaza. Jabr said after the speech, she was “dragged” to an office and was handed her termination letter for putting “others at risk” and “offending people.” *) NATO discusses allowing Ukraine to use Western arms to strike inside Russia https://www.trtworld.com/europe/nato-discusses-allowing-ukraine-to-use-western-arms-to-strike-inside-russia-18168072 NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg pushed at the start of a meeting of the alliance's foreign ministers to let Ukraine use Western weapons to strike inside Russia. Ukraine has been pressing its supporters, led by the United States, to allow it to use the longer-range weaponry it supplies to hit targets on Russian soil. Some countries including Britain and the Netherlands say Kiev has the right to use their weapons to strike military targets in Russia. And finally… *) Efes-2024 exercise based on peacekeeping, no country targeted: Erdogan https://www.trtworld.com/turkiye/efes-2024-exercise-based-on-peacekeeping-no-country-targeted-erdogan-18167900 Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has said that the Turkish military's ongoing Efes-2024 drill is based on peacekeeping. In an address to the military during the exercise in Izmir province, the Turkish president said that “no country is targeted within the scope of the Efes-2024 drill.” Erdogan said Türkiye has the opportunity to use the new domestic systems that have entered the inventory during the ongoing drill.

*) Norway, Ireland and Spain recognise Palestine as a state Norway, Ireland and Spain have recognised the Palestinian state. Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris called it “a historic and important day” and said the move to recognise the State of Palestine was coordinated with Spain and Norway. Several European Union countries have in the past weeks indicated that they plan to make the recognition official, arguing a two-state solution is essential for lasting peace in the region. The efforts come as a mounting death toll from Israel's war on Gaza prompts calls globally for a ceasefire and Palestinian recognition. *) Tens of thousands gather for Raisi's funeral in Tehran Tens of thousands of Iranians have flocked to the streets of Tehran to join the funeral processions of president Ebrahim Raisi and his entourage, who died in a helicopter crash. In the centre of the city, people holding portraits of Raisi gathered in and around the University of Tehran, where Ali Khamenei, Iran's supreme leader, is due to lead prayers for Raisi and his companions, including foreign minister Hossein Amirabdollahian. *) Blinken unsure Israel will make compromises for Saudi normalisation deal US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said he was unsure whether Israel was ready to make compromises to reach a deal to normalise relations with Saudi Arabia, notably on a pathway to an independent state of Palestine. His frank assessment came after Jake Sullivan, US President Joe Biden's national security advisor, visited both countries and briefed the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on the “potential” of a possible deal. But Blinken acknowledged doubts about whether Netanyahu and his hard-right government would meet Saudi demands if the normalisation issue became more than “hypothetical.” *) Schools shut in India, Pakistan as temperatures soar to 47.4C Authorities in several parts of India and Pakistan have announced the closure of schools amid intense heat waves. The decision comes as temperatures soar to alarming levels, posing significant risks to the health and safety of students and educators alike. The India Meteorological Department said the Najafgarh area in the capital New Delhi recorded a maximum temperature of 47.4 degrees celsius. Pakistan, on the other hand, is currently sizzling with temperatures between 38 and 43 degrees celsius, which are likely to soar to 46 degrees celsius in the coming week. *) TRT World bags Telly Award for video series on Zionist movement TRT World has bagged a coveted Silver Telly Award in the News & Information category for its compelling video series on the history of the Zionist movement. This three-episode series delves into the early 19th-century considerations by various Zionist groups to establish a Jewish state in regions such as the United States, Argentina, and Uganda. The Telly Awards, a prestigious US-based competition, received over 13,000 entries this year. TRT World's series was chosen from among nominations from six continents and all 50 US states.

This is TRT World's Daily News Brief for Tuesday April 9th. *) 'Pathetic': Nicaragua drags Germany to ICJ over Gaza aid, weapons to Israel Nicaragua has hauled Germany before the International Court of Justice to demand judges impose emergency measures to stop Berlin from providing Israel with weapons and other assistance. Lawyers for Nicaragua on Monday argued Germany was in breach of the 1948 United Nations Genocide Convention, set up in the wake of the Holocaust, by furnishing Israel with weapons. In 2023 some 30 percent of Israel's military equipment purchases came from Germany, totalling $326 million - a tenfold increase on 2022. Germany will respond fully in court on Tuesday but has hit back at the allegations. *) UNSC revives Palestine's bid for full UN membership The United Nations Security Council has said it would decide this month on Palestine's bid for full UN membership. As the Gaza war rages on into its seventh month, the council's decision on Monday was described as "historic" by Palestine, but angrily denounced by Israel. Maltese Ambassador Vanessa Frazier, who holds the rotating presidency of the council, said that "the council has decided that this deliberation has to take place during the month of April." Any request to become a UN member state must first pass through the Security Council — where Israel's ally the United States wields a veto — and then be endorsed by the General Assembly. *) EU eyes offshoring refugees but avoids UK-style Rwanda plan The European Union is open to the idea of sending refugees and migrants to outside countries, even if it is not willing to go quite as far as following Britain and its plans to fly refugees to Rwanda. The concept of using third countries to host asylum-seekers who have reached Europe is seen in a deal Italy has recently struck with non-EU nation Albania. It is also foreshadowed in reform of EU migration and asylum laws that the European Parliament puts to a vote on Wednesday, and which contains a provision for sending asylum-seekers to a "safe" third country. *) Türkiye-Israel trade volume drops amid Gaza invasion — report Türkiye has restricted the export of certain products to Israel until it implements a ceasefire and allows “sufficient and uninterrupted flow" of humanitarian aid to Gaza, the Turkish Trade Ministry said. The requirements of this decision will be immediately implemented. The annex listed several types of aluminium and steel products, paint, electric cables, construction materials, and other materials. The ministry also said that the decision will remain in effect until Israel, within the framework of its obligations arising from international law, declares an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and allows a sufficient and uninterrupted flow of humanitarian aid to Gaza, adding that Türkiye “has not allowed the sale of any product or service that can be used for military purposes to Israel” since a long time. And finally… *) 'Spectacular' total eclipse leaves North Americans spellbound People across North America — from a Mexican seashore to breathtaking Niagara Falls on the US-Canada border — have followed the solar eclipse and cheered the celestial show and, in Arkansas, were getting married en masse. Where clear skies prevailed, observers along the direct path of the eclipse were treated to the rare spectacle of the Moon appearing as a dark orb creeping in front of the Sun, briefly blocking out all but a brilliant halo of light, or corona, around the Sun's outer edge on Monday. It was North America's first total eclipse since 2017. And that's your daily news brief from TRT World. For more, head to trtworld.com

This is TRT World's Daily News Brief for Monday, April 8th. *) ICJ to hear against Germany for ‘facilitating' Israel's genocide in Gaza Germany faces charges from Nicaragua at the top UN court that it is “facilitating” acts of genocide and breaches of international law in Israel's war on Gaza. In a 43-page submission to the International Court of Justice, Nicaragua argues that Germany is in breach of the 1948 United Nations Genocide Convention, set up in the wake of the Holocaust. Nicaragua is demanding the judges impose emergency measures to stop Berlin providing Israel with weapons and other assistance. The Central American country will set out its case on Monday, with Germany due to respond the following day. *) Hamas ‘determined' in Gaza truce, hostage swap deal with Israel Palestinian resistance group Hamas has reiterated its commitment to securing a deal that brings a cessation of hostilities. A delegation from Hamas arrived in Cairo and met with Abbas Kamel, head of the General Intelligence Directorate of Egypt, the movement said in a statement. The statement emphasised Hamas' demands for an agreement that ensures the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza and the repatriation of hostages. In addition, Egyptian media noted that truce discussions would extend for the next 48 hours. *) Diplomatic staff leaves Ecuador after embassy raid — Mexico Mexico's diplomatic personnel have begun leaving Ecuador after the two countries severed ties. On Friday, Quito's security forces stormed the Mexican embassy in a bid to arrest former Ecuadorian vice president Jorge Glas, who was sheltering at the embassy. A day after the raid, Mexican Foreign Minister Alicia Barcena said that diplomatic personnel and their families would leave Ecuador. *) Ferry sinks, 90 people killed off Mozambique coast More than 90 people have died when an overcrowded makeshift ferry sank off the north coast of Mozambique, local authorities say. According to the officials, the converted fishing boat, carrying about 130 people, ran into trouble as it tried to reach an island off Nampula province. Many children were among the victims, he added. Rescuers had found five survivors and were searching for more, but sea conditions were making the operation difficult. And finally… *) Green onion outcry: humble vegetable scandal shakes up South Korea vote Used widely in South Korean cooking, green onions are dominating discussions ahead of the April 10 vote after an apparent gaff by the president sparked online outcry. President Yoon Suk Yeol visited a grocery store in the capital Seoul and said green onions were at a “reasonable price”. But local media reported that the store he visited had specially discounted the vegetable ahead of the president's visit. His comments sparked an avalanche of online memes, with the opposition claiming the politician was out of touch and people brandishing green onions at campaign rallies. And that's your daily news brief from TRT World. For more, head to trtworld.com