November 24, 2024

*) Death toll from Israeli attacks soars to 3,670 in Lebanon The human toll in Lebanon keeps climbing. Over the past 24 hours, at least 25 more people have been killed in Israeli attacks, pushing the death count to a staggering 3,670 since October last year, according to the Lebanese Health Ministry. The ministry said 58 more people were injured, adding to the total of 15,413 wounded since the conflict began. *) Russia’s new legislation: Sign up to fight in Ukraine, write off bad loans Join the war, erase your debts — that’s the new deal in Russia. President Vladimir Putin has signed off on a law allowing those who enlist to fight in Ukraine to cancel unpaid debts of up to $96,000. This incentive targets new recruits, with the promise extending to contracts signed after December 1. The relief isn’t just for the fighters — their spouses are also covered. Analysts say this move aims to boost enlistment for a conflict that’s now nearing its third year and straining Russia’s manpower. *) Türkiye warns of escalating threats if Syria fails to progress: Fidan Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has said Türkiye has no intention of aggression and regime change in Syria. The Turkish foreign minister said the lack of tangible steps on terrorism and refugees is creating a more substantial threat within Syria. Fidan told reporters in Ankara that if diplomatic and constructive approaches fail, then Türkiye will inevitably evaluate other measures when the time comes. *) Sudanese army recaptures key city from Rapid Support Forces A victory for the Sudanese army — they’ve announced the recapture of Sinja, the capital of Sennar State, from the Rapid Support Forces, or RSF. In a short but triumphant statement, the army declared its victory and released videos showing soldiers reclaiming the 17th Infantry Division’s headquarters. The RSF, so far, has remained silent on the army’s claim. *) Wealthy polluters to pay poor: COP29 negotiates $300B climate deal A deal hammered out under intense pressure: wealthy nations have agreed to contribute $300 billion a year to help poorer, vulnerable countries tackle the climate crisis. The agreement, finalised in the early hours under a stadium roof in Azerbaijan, follows two gruelling weeks of negotiations. As nearly 200 nations debated climate finance, last-minute edits were still being made on the floor before the pact was finally approved.