Gaza polio vaccination drive reached 600,000 children: WHO

A recent polio vaccination drive in Gaza successfully immunized over 600,000 children, aided by a ceasefire that allowed health workers access to previously unreachable areas. The WHO reported that despite previous vaccination efforts, the poliovirus remains present. The campaign, which concluded on Wednesday, highlighted the importance of peace for effective public health initiatives. A fourth round of vaccinations is planned soon.

Visa fee hikes and delays hinder international artists from touring the United States

The New Colossus Festival in NYC showcased 196 international artists amid growing visa challenges for musicians. Recent increases in visa fees and processing delays have made it harder for artists, particularly those from the Global South, to tour in the U.S. Many are reconsidering U.S. performances due to costs and logistical issues, raising concerns about cultural and economic impacts.

Measles cases reach nearly 300 total in Texas and New Mexico. Here's what you should know

Measles outbreaks in West Texas and New Mexico have surged to nearly 300 cases, with two unvaccinated individuals dying from related complications. Texas reports 259 cases, while New Mexico has 35. The highly contagious virus can be prevented through vaccination, and health officials urge booster shots for those at risk, as vaccination rates have declined since the pandemic.

Big March storm system threatens US with tornadoes, blizzards and wildfire risk

A massive storm system is set to impact over 100 million people across the U.S. on Friday, bringing tornadoes to the Mississippi Valley, blizzards in the northern Plains, and heightened wildfire risks in Texas and Oklahoma. Forecasters predict damaging winds and severe thunderstorms, with tornado threats extending into the weekend, particularly in Gulf Coast states.

Syria's sects: delicate mix for its new Islamist leaders

Syria's new leader, Ahmed al-Sharaa, vows to create an inclusive society amid sectarian tensions following the ousting of Bashar al-Assad. However, violence against Alawites has raised concerns over potential discrimination against minority groups. The country, ravaged by civil war, features a complex mix of sects, including Sunni Muslims, Christians, and Druze, each with distinct historical contexts and challenges.

Nepalese people know mastermind behind royal massacre of 2001, says Prachanda

Former Nepalese Prime Minister Pushpakamal Dahal ?Prachanda? accused ex-monarch Gyanendra Shah of orchestrating the 2001 royal palace massacre, claiming the public knows the truth. Speaking in Sindhupalchowk, he criticized Gyanendra for past crimes and warned against attempts to undermine the federal democratic republic. Prachanda urged participation in a rally to oppose pro-monarchy movements.

Israel PM, security agency fight it out in public

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar are publicly feuding over agency reforms following its failure to prevent the October 7 Hamas attack. Netanyahu accused Bar of "blackmail," while Bar's predecessor hinted at serious concerns about Netanyahu's leadership. Tensions are further fueled by disagreements over Bar's potential replacement and accusations of undermining security independence.

Italian unions worried about job cuts at U.S. military bases

Italian unions are rallying against potential job cuts for local staff at U.S. military bases due to government downsizing plans by President Trump and Elon Musk. With over 4,000 Italian personnel employed, concerns grow over hiring freezes and recent redundancies. Union representatives warn of possible protests and strikes if clear answers are not provided.

Musk meets with head of National Security Agency to ensure it is aligned with Trump, spy agency says

Elon Musk met with NSA leader Gen. Timothy Haugh to align priorities amidst budget cuts affecting federal agencies, including potential changes for spy services. As Musk leads the new Department of Government Efficiency, he has already reduced personnel at various agencies. The NSA and Cyber Command play crucial roles in national security and cybersecurity, especially regarding support for Ukraine.

Oil prices set to end week stable as investors mull path to Ukraine ceasefire

Oil prices rose slightly on Friday after previous losses, with Brent crude at $70.24 and U.S. WTI at $66.94. Analysts suggest price stability hinges on geopolitical developments, particularly regarding the Ukraine conflict and Russian oil sanctions. The International Energy Agency warned of potential oversupply in the market, leading to cautious demand growth projections.

Warning of unrest as Serbian protesters descend on Belgrade

Thousands of students and protesters have gathered in Belgrade ahead of major anti-government rallies, spurred by a tragic railway station collapse. Serbian PM Milos Vucevic warned of potential police intervention against violence, while opposition groups fear his supporters may provoke unrest. The protests challenge Vucic's long-standing rule, calling for accountability and transparency regarding the disaster.

Hamas says it will release a US-Israeli hostage and 4 bodies, but Israel expresses immediate doubt

Hamas has agreed to a proposal to release an American-Israeli hostage and the bodies of four dual nationals, but the Israeli government remains skeptical, accusing Hamas of manipulation during ceasefire talks. The U.S. is also involved in negotiations for a potential hostage exchange, while conditions in Gaza remain dire amid ongoing tensions between Israel and Hamas.

Chadian journalists on Russia 'collusion' charges await hearing

Three Chadian journalists, including an RFI correspondent, remain in custody on charges of colluding with the Russian paramilitary group Wagner. They face serious allegations, including conspiracy and undermining state security, which could lead to 20-30 years in prison. Their lawyers claim no evidence has been presented against them, raising concerns among press organizations about media freedom in Chad.

UN report warns Iran is stepping up electronic surveillance of women to enforce headscarf laws

A UN report reveals Iran is intensifying electronic surveillance and public reporting against women defying mandatory hijab laws, following the death of Mahsa Amini in 2022. The report highlights systematic discrimination, state-sponsored vigilantism, and severe penalties for non-compliance, amid ongoing protests and a crackdown on dissent. Iran’s use of surveillance technology and harsh responses exacerbate tensions within the country.

Florence cathedral closed as Italy's Tuscany on flood alert

Heavy rain near Florence has caused severe flooding, prompting a red weather alert and warnings for residents to stay indoors. Authorities closed schools, parks, and major attractions like the Uffizi Galleries. Over 500 firefighters are responding to incidents, and the Arno River is expected to reach critical levels. The situation is deemed worse than previous floods in 2019.

Peruvian farmer’s case against German energy giant RWE could reshape global climate accountability

A climate lawsuit by Peruvian farmer Saul Luciano Lliuya against German energy firm RWE is set to trial in Germany. Lliuya claims RWE's emissions contribute to glacial melt threatening his community. Experts believe the case could establish a precedent for holding major polluters accountable, potentially impacting the fossil fuel industry's financial landscape and inspiring similar global lawsuits.