Mohini Barman

Over 75 municipalities across Italy, including major cities, participated in a general strike to protest Italy’s role in the Gaza conflict. The strike, organized by multiple unions, aimed to halt arms shipments from Italian ports and call for a stronger stance on Gaza. Thousands marched through central Milan, Bologna, and Naples, confronting police and disrupting transportation. At least 60 people were injured and dozens arrested in clashes. Leaders demanded government accountability and a reevaluation of foreign policy. The protests represent one of the largest displays of public dissent in Italy in recent years, reflecting deep frustration with war and humanitarian…

Copper prices have jumped sharply following a fatal mudslide at Freeport-McMoRan’s Grasberg mine in Papua, Indonesia — one of the world’s largest producers. The company has declared force majeure, citing major disruption to output and transportation routes. The Grasberg mine accounts for around 3% of global copper production, and the reduced supply has triggered concerns about deficits in 2025 and beyond. Analysts say the shock could ripple across commodity markets, especially in countries dependent on copper imports. Shares of major miners rose in response, while investors scrambled to reposition portfolios. Many see this as a reminder of the fragility of…

Flights were grounded in both Denmark and Norway after unauthorized drones were detected in the airspace near major airports overnight. The disruptions affected tens of thousands of passengers as flights were diverted or delayed across the region. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen described the incident as possibly the “most serious attack on Danish critical infrastructure to date.” Norwegian authorities also confirmed broad disruptions. Investigations are underway on whether the drone incursions were coordinated, with speculation about Russian involvement in light of regional tensions. NATO condemned airspace violations over Estonia just days earlier, heightening security concerns across Northern Europe. Analysts say…

Hurricane Lee made landfall on the US East Coast on Friday, bringing heavy rainfall, strong winds, and coastal flooding across New England. Authorities evacuated thousands from vulnerable coastal towns, while airlines canceled more than 800 flights. Power lines collapsed in Massachusetts, leaving over 300,000 homes without electricity. Emergency services said rescue teams are working round the clock to clear roads and restore power. Meteorologists warn that climate change is making Atlantic storms more intense, causing longer-lasting damage. President Joe Biden has pledged federal aid to assist recovery.

Public schools across Chicago remained closed on Friday as thousands of teachers went on strike demanding higher wages, smaller class sizes, and more mental health staff in schools. Union leaders say teachers have been underpaid while dealing with overcrowded classrooms, which affects both staff morale and student performance. The city government has called the strike “disruptive” but acknowledged that negotiations are ongoing. Parents expressed frustration, balancing sympathy for teachers with the challenges of childcare during closures. Analysts believe the strike could set a precedent for other US cities where education unions are pressing for reform.

The German government has announced an accelerated plan to shut down all coal-fired power plants by 2030, five years earlier than previously scheduled. Economy Minister Robert Habeck said the move is crucial to meeting climate targets and reducing dependency on imported fuels. Renewable sources, particularly wind and solar, will replace the lost capacity. Environmental groups have welcomed the decision, while energy companies have sought financial support for the transition. The shift is expected to influence EU climate policy and encourage other European nations to fast-track their energy transitions.

The United Nations’ latest report warns that global hunger has risen for the fourth consecutive year, affecting over 780 million people worldwide. Conflict, climate change, and economic slowdown have worsened food insecurity, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa and parts of South Asia. The report notes that despite record global harvests, distribution and affordability remain critical issues. The World Food Programme has called for urgent international cooperation, highlighting that children are the most vulnerable group. Analysts warn the crisis could trigger further migration and political instability if left unaddressed.