The United States has launched airstrikes against the Islamic State in Nigeria, targeting jihadist militants. This marks an active US military engagement aimed at countering extremist threats in the region. The strikes come amid longstanding criticism by former President Trump of the Nigerian government's ability to protect Christians from Islamist violence, highlighting ongoing security challenges in Nigeria.
In Syria, a blast at a mosque in Homs during Friday prayers has killed at least eight people. The attack occurred in a predominantly Alawite area, a community that has suffered violence and repression since the fall of former-President Bashar al-Assad. This incident underscores the fragile security situation and sectarian tensions persisting in the region.
Meanwhile, in Israel, two people were killed in a suspected Palestinian attack involving a vehicle ramming and stabbing. The attacker, reportedly from the occupied West Bank, ran over one victim before stabbing another several miles away. Israeli authorities continue to face security challenges amid ongoing tensions in the area.
Israel has officially recognized Somaliland as an independent state, a move announced by Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu. This decision has drawn criticism from several countries, including Somalia, Egypt, Turkey, and Djibouti, who view the recognition as setting a dangerous precedent. The development could impact diplomatic relations and regional alliances in the Horn of Africa.
On another diplomatic front, ceasefire talks between Thailand and Cambodia are ongoing amid renewed conflict along their border. Despite negotiations on a third consecutive day, Cambodia has accused Thailand of conducting "indiscriminate attacks" in the border region. The talks aim to halt weeks of fighting that have destabilized the area.
Ex-Malaysia Prime Minister Najib Razak has been sentenced to 15 years in prison following his conviction related to the multibillion-dollar 1MDB sovereign wealth fund scandal. This verdict is a significant move in addressing corruption at the highest levels of government in Malaysia and could have lasting political and legal implications.
In the United States, a judge has blocked the detention of British social media campaigner Imran Ahmed, who was among five people accused of attempting to pressure US firms into censoring speech. The ruling highlights ongoing debates about free speech, social media regulation, and cross-border legal issues.
California is experiencing easing conditions after heavy downpours, but authorities warn that flood and mudslide risks remain in the region. Saturated ground means that even light additional rainfall could trigger natural disasters, posing ongoing risks to public safety and infrastructure.
A controversy has arisen around a prominent Russian archaeologist wanted by Ukrainian authorities for conducting digs in occupied Crimea. The case raises questions about the connections between museums, cultural heritage, and state interests amid geopolitical conflict. It reflects broader tensions over cultural property and national identity in disputed territories.