As dawn breaks across the globe, today’s top international stories reveal the shifting tides of power, policy, and protest. From rising diplomatic tensions to domestic reform debates in the Sudan crisis, Hamas-Israel ceasefire and US-UK trade tensions, top the billing today, as we break down the key facts of each story and how leading global media are framing the headlines.
It’s a cool start to the day in London 12°C after a week of sun, sunny and crisp in Paris at 16°C, overcast in New York at 9°C, sweltering heat in Dubai at 32°C, and brisk but bright day in Budapest at 14°C. There’s no reason why you should be gloomy, thinks are looking up!
Sudan crisis
Sudan’s Civil War Triggers World’s Largest Humanitarian Crisis
Sudan’s civil war, now entering its third year, has escalated into the world’s most severe humanitarian crisis. The conflict between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths and displaced nearly 13 million people, with famine declared in regions like Darfur. Recent attacks have left over 400 civilians dead, and both factions face accusations of war crimes.
Sources:
- The Guardian: Sudan in ‘world’s largest humanitarian crisis’ after two years of civil war
- Al Jazeera: Millions displaced as Sudan war enters third year
Hamas-Israel ceasefire
Hamas Rejects Israeli Ceasefire Proposal Over Disarmament Demand
Israel has proposed a 45-day ceasefire in Gaza, contingent upon Hamas releasing 11 Israeli captives and disarming. Hamas has labeled the disarmament demand a “red line,” stalling negotiations. The death toll in Gaza approaches 51,000, with international mediators struggling to broker peace.
Sources:
US-UK Trade Deal
JD Vance Expresses Optimism for US-UK Trade Deal Amid Tariff Tensions
US Vice President JD Vance has expressed hope for a “great” trade deal with the UK, despite recent tariffs imposed by President Trump. The UK faces a 10% import tariff and 25% on steel and car imports. Negotiations are expected to expand to cover food and other goods, with UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves set to discuss further during upcoming IMF meetings.
Sources:
Indonesia and Russia Cooperation
Indonesia Denies Reports of Russian Military Base Request
Indonesia has denied reports that Russia requested to base military aircraft at an Indonesian airbase in Biak, Papua. The denial follows concerns from Australia after reports suggested Russia sought to station long-range aircraft in Indonesia. Indonesia maintains its non-alignment policy and has not acknowledged any such request.
Sources:
Harvard fights back against Trump
Trump Administration Faces Backlash Over Harvard Funding Freeze
The Trump administration has frozen $2.3 billion in funds to Harvard University after the institution rejected federal demands, which critics label as attempts to stifle academic freedom. Former President Obama condemned the move as “unlawful and ham-handed,” urging other universities to resist similar pressures.
Sources:
- The Guardian: Obama condemns Trump’s $2.3bn Harvard funding freeze as ‘unlawful and ham-handed’
- WTX News : Trump freezes $2.2 billion in grants to Harvard
This briefing includes summaries from The Guardian and Al Jazeera. Other sources such as France 24, Washington Post, Euronews, and BBC News did not have directly related articles on these topics at the time of this briefing.