Pakistan Blocks Social Media Platform X Over 'Misuse' Concerns; Court Calls Decision Laughable

Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 11:41am on 17 Apr 2024,Wednesday International

Pakistan confirmed the suspension of social media platform X, citing national security threats. The platform, owned by Elon Musk, has been inaccessible since February, prompting criticism from the Sindh High Court. The court directed the government to restore access within a week, questioning the decision's effectiveness. The interior ministry accused X of failing to cooperate on critical issues, leading to the ban. Widespread disruptions in accessing X were reported across major cities. The US State Department expressed support for internet access while refraining from direct intervention. Mobile internet services were cut during February's polls due to security reasons.

Read More at Hindustan Times

Heavy Rain, Storms Disrupt Travel in Dubai, 28 India Flights Cancelled

Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 11:30am on 17 Apr 2024,Wednesday International

Dubai faces chaos as heavy rain and storms paralyze the city, resulting in widespread flooding. Over 500 flights, including 28 to India, are diverted, delayed, or cancelled, with warnings issued to avoid unnecessary travel. Emirates Airline suspends check-ins, while major malls and metro stations suffer flooding. UAE and Bahrain also impacted, following Oman's deadly deluge. With more storms forecasted, schools are closed, and remote work extended. Climate concerns loom as authorities urge precaution amidst record rainfall.

Read More at NDTV

Russian Strike Kills 11, Injures 20 in Ukrainian City of Chernigiv

Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 10:58am on 17 Apr 2024,Wednesday International

A Russian strike on Chernigiv, northern Ukraine, resulted in 11 deaths and 20 injuries. President Zelensky highlighted the lack of sufficient air defences, urging allies for support against Russian aggression. First responders searched for survivors amidst rubble, with casualties including a policewoman. The densely populated area faced severe infrastructure damage, with buildings and vehicles destroyed. Zelensky criticized the global response to Russian terror, stressing the urgent need for enhanced air and missile defences. Chernigiv, historically spared from conflict, faces renewed devastation, highlighting ongoing tensions despite its distance from the frontline.

Read More at NDTV

The US is Ready to Impose Sanctions on Iran's Missile And Drone Activities, Urging Allies For a United Response

Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 08:56am on 17 Apr 2024,Wednesday International

The United States plans to impose new sanctions on Iran following its weekend attack on Israel. The attack, involving over 300 missiles, drones, and rockets, was in retaliation for a strike on Tehran's consulate in Damascus. The US will target Iran's missile and drone program, as well as the Revolutionary Guards and the Iranian defense ministry. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen and EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell have indicated support for these measures. Despite the attack, most projectiles were intercepted, resulting in minimal damage.

Read More at News 18

UK Man Jailed for £70m Cocaine Conspiracy, Hid Drugs in Cheese

Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 07:37am on 17 Apr 2024,Wednesday International

Saleem Chaudhri, 46, from Blackburn, UK, sentenced to 27 years and six months for smuggling £17m worth of cocaine concealed in Gouda cheese blocks. Lancashire Police raided his unit, discovering 478lb of cocaine. Chaudhri and accomplice Rieadul Mohabath, 28, admitted to the £70m conspiracy. Mohabath received a 16-year sentence. Police seized cash and suspected drugs during Mohabath's arrest in South Shields, UK. Chaudhri's home search revealed nearly £10,000 in cash. The operation involved trafficking over 4,400lb of cocaine. Detective Sgt Haydn Sibley emphasized the elaborate measures taken to conceal the drugs, marking Lancashire's largest cocaine bust.

Read More at BBC

NASA Reports a Piece of The International Space Station Hit a Florida House

Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 04:57am on 17 Apr 2024,Wednesday International

A piece of the International Space Station crashed into a Florida home. NASA confirmed it was part of hardware jettisoned in 2021. The metal object, weighing 1.6lb, pierced two ceilings. Thankfully, no one was hurt, but the homeowner's son narrowly avoided injury. The debris, identified as a stanchion used for mounting batteries, was supposed to burn up during re-entry. Made of Inconel alloy, it measures 4in by 1.6in. Homeowner Alejandro Otero described the impact as a "tremendous sound." This incident underscores the risks associated with space debris and the need for vigilance in tracking it.

Read More at BBC

Rishi Sunak Reaffirms UK's Backing for Israel's Security in Conversation With Benjamin Netanyahu

Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 03:43am on 17 Apr 2024,Wednesday International

The UK Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak, expressed support for Israel's security after Iran's attack. He emphasized the need for calm to prevent further instability in the region. Sunak noted Iran's isolation and the G7's coordinated response. Israel thanked the UK for its support. Sunak also highlighted concerns about Gaza's humanitarian crisis, urging increased aid access. He criticized Hamas for blocking a deal to save lives and secure hostages' release. Iran launched 300 attack drones and missiles towards Israel, triggering air raid sirens nationwide.

Read More at The Times Of India

Historic Copenhagen Stock Exchange in Denmark Engulfed by Fire; Iconic Spire Collapses

Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 07:26pm on 16 Apr 2024,Tuesday International

Denmark's 17th-century Børsen, a symbol of cultural heritage, succumbed to flames in Copenhagen. Onlookers watched in shock as the dragon-adorned spire fell. Firefighters battled for hours to control the blaze, with half of the building destroyed. Scaffolding around the structure hindered rescue efforts. The cause remains unknown. Culture Minister mourns the loss of 400 years of history. The building, under renovation, housed the Danish Chamber of Commerce and valuable artworks. Prime Minister expresses sorrow over the tragedy. Citizens and officials rally to save precious artifacts. The incident evokes memories of Notre-Dame fire in Paris.

Read More at BBC

Iranians Anxious as Leaders Declare 'Tel Aviv as Our Battlefield'

Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 06:22pm on 16 Apr 2024,Tuesday International

Iranians are feeling nervous following Iran's attack on Israel, with Tehran experiencing heightened tension. Some are worried that the conflict could escalate further, leading them to stockpile essential items due to concerns about the economy. The government's messaging emphasizes that "Tel Aviv is our battleground," indicating a readiness for further confrontation. Meanwhile, international pressure on Israel is a prominent topic in the news, while Iranians discuss the potential impact of military escalation on their daily lives. Online discussions under various hashtags show a mix of support and criticism for Iran's actions.

Read More at BBC

UK PM Rishi Sunak Faces Resistance Over Smoking Ban Plans

Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 05:09pm on 16 Apr 2024,Tuesday International

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak confronts opposition to his proposal to ban smoking for under-15s as Parliament debates the Tobacco and Vapes Bill. The legislation aims to create a smoke-free generation, raising the smoking age annually. Health Secretary Victoria Atkins asserts the bill's importance in saving lives and reducing NHS strain. Critics, including former PMs, oppose it as restrictive. The law targets early prevention, with fines for selling tobacco to minors. Advocates hail it as a milestone, aiming to relegate smoking to history. The bill also regulates vaping to deter youth consumption, citing health concerns and economic burdens of smoking.

Read More at Hindustan Times

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