First public comments attributed to Assad claim he never planned to leave Syria

A powerful 8.8 magnitude earthquake struck near Russia's Kamchatka Peninsula, prompting tsunami alerts in Japan, Hawaii, and parts of Alaska. The quake, which occurred at a depth of 19.3 kilometers, caused damage and evacuations in nearby Russian regions and led to warnings of potential tsunami waves up to 3 meters affecting several coastal areas across the Pacific. Want More Context? 🔎

Lesotho's capital, Maseru, faces severe hardships as thousands of garment workers lose jobs due to impending US tariffs and the withdrawal of USAID, cutting off healthcare for many. With high unemployment and national disaster declared, fears grow as President Trump's policies threaten the economy, leaving the Basotho seeking new solutions in regional trade despite challenges in South Africa. Want More Context? 🔎

Unconditional support for Israel is being questioned within Trump's MAGA base, especially in light of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, prompting discussions on the consistency of US involvement in the Middle East with an "America First" approach. Notable shifts include Trump's acknowledgment of starvation in Gaza and a decline in support for Israel among younger Republicans, indicating a potential ideological transformation within the party. Want More Context? 🔎

Anthony Albanese has stated that Australia's recognition of a Palestinian state will depend on circumstances that advance the two-state solution, following the UK’s potential recognition of Palestine if Israel fails to make significant progress in Gaza. He emphasized the need for humanitarian access, a ceasefire, and the Palestinian Authority's commitment to reforms, urging global support for these objectives. Want More Context? 🔎

Earthquake 'the strongest in decades', says Russian officialAn 8.7 magnitude earthquake struck 78 miles from Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, Russia, at a depth of 18 kilometers, generating a 3-4 meter tsunami in Kamchatka. While there were no reported injuries, a kindergarten was damaged, and local officials described it as the strongest tremor in decades. Want More Context? 🔎

A powerful 8.8-magnitude earthquake off Russia's Kamchatka Peninsula triggered a 4-meter tsunami, causing evacuations and damage, with injuries reported in the region. Tsunami warnings have been issued for Japan, the Philippines, Hawaii, and parts of Alaska, while aftershocks are expected for the next month, prompting alerts in coastal areas as far as New Zealand. Want More Context? 🔎