Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 12:56pm on 16 May 2024,Thursday International
Pakistan's jailed former Prime Minister, Imran Khan, makes a virtual court appearance regarding anticorruption law amendments. Despite demands for transparency, the hearing wasn't livestreamed, sparking accusations of collusion between the chief justice and the government. Khan's party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf, alleges bias against them. The virtual appearance marks Khan's first court appearance since his imprisonment in August 2023. Meanwhile, tensions persist between Khan's supporters and the government. The hearing follows government amendments to the National Accountability Ordinance, altering the powers of Pakistan's main anticorruption agency.
Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 11:09am on 16 May 2024,Thursday International
Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico is no longer in a life-threatening condition after being shot in an assassination attempt on Wednesday. Fico, 59, was shot five times and underwent surgery, but is now stable and out of danger. One bullet went through his stomach and another hit a joint, causing serious injuries. Initially, his condition was critical, but doctors report a successful operation. The attack occurred as Fico left a government meeting, and authorities have classified it as a politically motivated assassination attempt. An investigation is ongoing.
Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 07:53am on 16 May 2024,Thursday International
Five Israeli soldiers were killed in an incident in Jabalia, northern Gaza, on Wednesday, marking one of the deadliest incidents since the war began in October. Israeli tank fire mistakenly hit the troops, who had re-entered the town on Monday after previously pulling out. The incident occurred amidst intensified fighting in Jabalia and Rafah, where tens of thousands of civilians have fled since Saturday. The UN reports 600,000 Palestinians have fled Rafah and another 100,000 have been newly displaced in the north, highlighting the escalating humanitarian crisis.
Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 04:37am on 16 May 2024,Thursday International
Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico is in critical condition after being shot in a small town north-east of Bratislava. The attack occurred on Wednesday afternoon as Fico greeted people outside a cultural community centre. A man fired five shots at the prime minister before being subdued by bodyguards. Fico underwent surgery for over three hours, and his condition is described as "bad". The defence minister called the shooting an "attack on democracy". The assailant has been detained but not yet identified. The incident has sparked shock and concern among Slovak politicians, including the president.
Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 08:20pm on 15 May 2024,Wednesday International
Yemen's Houthis claim to have targeted a US warship and a vessel named "Destiny" in the Red Sea, aligning with their campaign of attacks to support Palestinians in Gaza. Houthis' military spokesman Yahya Sarea stated they aimed at the American destroyer "Maysun" with naval missiles, while targeting "Destiny" en route to the Israeli port of Eilat. Dates of the attacks were unspecified, and Reuters couldn't independently verify the claims. Continuous Houthi assaults in the Red Sea disrupt global shipping, prompting US and UK strikes on Houthi targets. Fears mount over wider Middle East destabilization amidst ongoing conflicts.
Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 07:24pm on 15 May 2024,Wednesday International
Israeli Prime Minister rejects claims of a "humanitarian catastrophe" in Rafah amidst massive evacuations. Nearly 500,000 people evacuated as clashes intensify during Palestinian Nakba commemoration. US approves $1 billion arms package for Israel despite warnings of prolonged conflict. European Union urges immediate cessation of military operations. Netanyahu asserts successful evacuation efforts, denies humanitarian crisis. Desperate scenes evoke memories of 1948 Nakba. Hamas blames Zionist occupation for ongoing refugee suffering. Netanyahu's statement contrasts with grim realities of urban combat in besieged Gaza.
Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 06:55pm on 15 May 2024,Wednesday International
Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant opposes Israel taking charge of Gaza after the conflict with Hamas. Gallant insists on avoiding military or civilian rule, emphasizing the need for political solutions involving Palestinians and international cooperation. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu focuses on Hamas's defeat before considering governance alternatives. Netanyahu dismisses discussions on Gaza's future as premature while Hamas remains in power. Gallant's stance draws criticism from Israel's far-right National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, highlighting divisions within the Israeli government. The differing opinions reflect the complexity of resolving the Gaza conflict and establishing sustainable governance.
Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 06:34pm on 15 May 2024,Wednesday International
During the Fort Lauderdale Air Show in Florida, two fighter jets narrowly avoided disaster as they clipped wings mid-air during an aerial stunt. Spectators captured the tense moment on video as the jets, part of the Polaris Ghost Squadron, momentarily lost control before regaining stability. An emergency was declared, but both aircraft landed safely, with pilots unharmed. Despite the scare, the show continued, featuring performances by the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds and other renowned teams. Aviation enthusiasts praised the event's excitement, underscoring the risks and thrills of aerial displays.
Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 05:43pm on 15 May 2024,Wednesday International
Ukraine withdraws troops from several villages in Kharkiv border region following sustained pressure from Russian forces. President Zelensky cancels foreign trips as soldiers struggle to contain cross-border incursion. Moscow claims control of additional settlements, while Kyiv asserts military presence in contested areas. Decision to relocate troops aims to safeguard lives amid ongoing clashes. Despite setbacks, Ukrainian military maintains resistance against Russian advance. Intense fighting reported in Kharkiv region, with Russian forces targeting key locations. Ukraine's intelligence chief notes stabilization of front line amidst escalating tensions.
Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 05:35pm on 15 May 2024,Wednesday International
US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announces that laid-off H-1B visa holders in the US can legally extend their stay beyond 60 days. Options include applying for a new employer, changing visa status, or adjusting visa status. Timely actions during the grace period ensure extended stay, while inaction may require departure within 60 days. H-1B non-immigrants can work for a new employer upon filing a new H-1B petition. USCIS clarifies misconceptions amid tech industry layoffs, affecting thousands, including Indians. Efforts continue to support legal stay for affected workers amidst ongoing challenges in the job market.