Israel bombs south Gaza after Hamas hostage threat

13 Sept 06:21 Key points summarised by AI

Israel escalated bombings in southern Gaza's Khan Yunis following Hamas's warning that no Israeli hostages would be released alive without a prisoner exchange and meeting their demands.
The ongoing conflict, initiated by Hamas's October 7 attack, has led to widespread devastation in Gaza, with over 17,997 reported deaths and nearly two million people displaced amid a collapsing health system.
Diplomatic efforts for a ceasefire are stalled, as the US continues to reject one due to Hamas's stated intent to repeat attacks, while the UN Secretary-General criticized the Security Council's undermined authority after a US veto.
Concerns about regional escalation are rising, marked by intensified cross-border exchanges between Israel and Lebanese militants, and threats from Yemen's Huthi rebels to target vessels heading to Israel.

Macron condemns those who 'sought to bring down the Republic' after rioting mars nationwide protests

19 Oct 12:56 Key points summarised by AI

President Macron condemned widespread rioting and looting during nationwide protests, blaming far-left activists and criminals for the "unrestrained violence" and vowing accountability for those who "sought to bring down the Republic."
Over 2,400 arrests were made as protests against rising living costs and poor school conditions escalated, causing extensive damage to public buildings and businesses in cities like Paris, Limoges (where City Hall burned), Marseille, and Lyon.
The unrest, which organizers hoped would revive the "yellow vest" movement, saw political leaders trade blame, with Macron instructing prefects to protect public buildings and potentially ban future protests to prevent further disorder.