Sudan paramilitary attacks kill 31; hunger, displacement crises worsen.
In Sudan, renewed attacks by the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces in Sennar have left at least 31 people dead and 100 wounded, exacerbating the conflict that has created severe hunger and displacement crises. This ongoing violence between the RSF and Sudan's army has drawn international concern over potential war crimes.
Meanwhile, in East Timor,
Pope Francis arrived to a warm welcome from President Jose Manuel Ramos-Horta and the people of Dili. His visit, the first since the country’s independence in 2002, comes at a pivotal moment as the nation commemorates the 25th anniversary of its UN-backed referendum for independence.
Shifting to Gaza, where the new school year has been postponed indefinitely due to the ongoing war between Israel and Hamas, which has damaged or destroyed 90% of the territory's schools. In response, UNRWA has converted many schools into emergency shelters while continuing a polio vaccination campaign amidst the turmoil.
In Japan, Digital Minister Kono Taro, who aspires to be the next Prime Minister, has proposed recognizing Palestine as part of his vision for a two-state solution and regional stability. Kono’s platform also emphasizes transitioning to renewable energy by 2050, while maintaining robust US relations and countering China's regional influence.
Back in the UK, a University of Sheffield study revealed that London Mayor Sadiq Khan and former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak were the top targets of online abuse during the recent general elections. The study highlighted that over 6 percent of responses to these politicians were abusive, underscoring concerns over cyber harassment.
Lastly, in Yemen, US and UK jets conducted consecutive airstrikes on Houthi targets in Hodeidah, following earlier strikes in Ibb province. These operations aim to eliminate Houthi drones and missile systems threatening international shipping, even as Yemen's government seeks financial aid to address their crippling economic crisis.