Month: September 2026

The current and former presidents of the International Criminal Court’s governing body have condemned diplomatic pressures aimed at isolating the court, asserting these efforts undermine international law. They urged member states to support the ICC amid escalating sanctions from the Trump administration, which has opposed the court’s investigations, particularly regarding Israeli officials.

Mayor Jeromy Farkas characterised the current budget proposals as a “wishlist”, noting that many stakeholders request items as budget discussions unfold. He spoke to reporters on Thursday regarding the influx of demands typically seen during the budgeting process.

The Missouri Supreme Court has unanimously halted the implementation of a new Republican-leaning House map ahead of the midterm elections, ordering a statewide referendum on its validity. This decision preserves the previous map, maintaining six GOP-leaning and two Democratic-leaning districts for the November general election.

Major General Nikolai Varpakhovich is in critical condition following a suspected assassination attempt in Saratov, Russia, where he was shot while leaving his home.

A hazardous materials alert at Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) was triggered on Thursday evening after a woman reported carrying toxic substances in her handbag. Terminal 1 was evacuated, flight operations paused, and emergency teams are currently analysing the unknown substance amid safety concerns.

The US House of Representatives passed a bill penalising universities that boycott Israel, including institutions in the West Bank, in a 237-169 vote. Critics, including rights groups, assert it infringes on free speech. The legislation now requires Senate approval and the President’s signature to become law.

A resident of Nova Scotia has reported losing hundreds of relatives and friends due to devastating flash floods in Rasuwa, Nepal. The situation remains critical as the community mourns the impact of the disaster.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has indicated that Sean Parnell is his preferred candidate for Army Secretary, according to senior officials. Parnell, currently the Pentagon spokesperson, previously served in the Army and has been recognised for his military service. The White House is seeking a successor for Dan Driscoll, who recently resigned.

The World Meteorological Organisation forecasts a ‘supersized’ El Niño to peak by February, heightening risks of extreme weather globally, including for the UK.

Five African migrants died while attempting to reach Spain’s Canary Islands, as confirmed by Spanish rescuers. The maritime rescue service saved 44 others from a drifting boat southwest of Gran Canaria, with reports indicating dozens more may have perished during the perilous journey.