The Jakarta Composite Index experienced a sharp decline on March 18 due to rising state debt and economic policies by President Prabowo, prompting a 30-minute trading halt. Analysts attribute the market crisis to a combination of domestic issues eroding investor confidence, urging immediate recovery measures. Concerns over expensive government programs, debt in construction SOEs, and capital outflows have contributed to Indonesia’s capital market instability, with the IHSG falling by 13% year-to-date in 2025.
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Druze near Damascus resist demand to turn in arms as tensions boil
Druze residents near the capital of Syria are resisting a demand from the Islamist-led government to surrender their light weapons. They express concerns that the authorities have not adequately addressed their fears of renewed attacks from Sunni Muslim militants following recent days of sectarian violence. This situation highlights the ongoing tensions and security challenges faced by the Druze community amidst a backdrop of escalating sectarian strife in the region. Full Article
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