Europe

Tensions in the Middle East escalated as Iran-backed Houthi rebels launched missile attacks on Saudi Arabia, targeting a major refinery in Yanbu. Greek military sources reported that a deployed Patriot missile battery intercepted the attack, while Riyadh faced similar threats in Jizan, prompting civil protection warnings.

The International Criminal Court’s member states have voted to remove chief prosecutor Karim Khan, marking a historical first. This decision follows allegations of sexual misconduct, which Khan denies, and comes amid significant pressure from the US government regarding the court’s jurisdiction and ongoing investigations.

Germany’s Bundestag is poised to vote on a significant fiscal package that proposes amendments to longstanding debt policies, aiming to facilitate increased defence spending and establish a €500 billion infrastructure and climate fund.

The vote is seen as a response to Russia’s advances in Ukraine as the United States makes clear Europe can no longer rely on US protection from Russia.

Supporters of lifting the debt restrictions to boost defence spending say it’s essential for European security but there is also opposition. The decision could influence broader European defence initiatives, like the EU’s proposed €800 billion ReArm Europe fund.

The ban was triggered by the death of a 14-year-old boy, who was stabbed by a fellow pupil at his school in Tirana and shared on social media.

The opposition are suggesting this is politically motivated and labelling it a form of censorship.

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