Rebel group takes key Myanmar border town and rare earth mining hub in setback for military regime

A Bafta-winning actor who starred in Netflix's Top Boy, Micheal Ward, is facing multiple charges, including two counts of rape and three counts of sexual assault, all reported to have occurred in January 2023 involving the same woman. The Metropolitan Police are leading the investigation, emphasizing the support for the victim during this sensitive process. Want More Context? 🔎

Palestinians in Gaza are facing a severe humanitarian crisis, with the Health Ministry reporting 122 malnutrition deaths since the conflict began in October 2023, including 83 children. Hospitals struggle with starvation as Israel's blockade prevents essential aid, prompting urgent calls for immediate assistance and blaming the Israeli occupation and international complicity for the ongoing famine. Want More Context? 🔎

The Supreme Court of Appeal has mandated that the KwaZulu-Natal High Court's decision to reject the State's application for special leave to appeal the acquittal of prominent figures involved in the KZN Jazz Festival corruption case be reconsidered. This ruling underscores the ongoing legal complexities surrounding the high-profile corruption allegations. Want More Context? 🔎

The German government plans to ask all 18-year-old males about their willingness to join the armed forces through a compulsory questionnaire as part of a strategy to increase military personnel from 182,000 to 260,000, potentially reinstating conscription if necessary. Chancellor Friedrich Merz is leading efforts to enhance Germany's military capabilities, including an advertising campaign and incentives like subsidized driving licenses and language courses to attract more volunteers. Want More Context? 🔎

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres criticized the international community for its indifference to the escalating starvation crisis in Gaza, describing it as a "moral crisis" that demands urgent action. He called for an immediate ceasefire, unimpeded humanitarian access, and condemned the ongoing suffering of civilians, particularly children, exacerbated by the Israeli blockade and the limitations imposed by the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation. Want More Context? 🔎

The U.S. will implement new tariffs starting at 15%, with potential increases up to 50% unless countries negotiate trade deals, impacting consumer prices and operational costs for companies like Nestlé and General Electric. Economists warn of gradual price hikes across various goods, particularly in categories reliant on imports, as the U.S. tariff regime becomes established. Want More Context? 🔎