In a renewed surge of activism, Moroccan youth took to the streets of Casablanca and other cities on Thursday, reigniting their calls for sweeping governmental reforms. The protests, orchestrated by the ‘Gen Z 212’ movement, demand the dismissal of Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch and a crackdown on corruption, alongside improved public services in health and education. This latest wave of demonstrations follows a brief midweek hiatus, strategically timed to culminate in a powerful display of dissent ahead of King Mohammed VI’s anticipated parliamentary address on Friday.
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Oman: 8 killed, 2 injured in major traffic accident
A devastating traffic accident in Oman’s Wilayat of Duqm has resulted in the deaths of eight individuals and left two others injured, according to a statement released by Oman’s Ministry of Health on Thursday. The collision involved two vehicles, marking one of the most severe road incidents in the region this year. In a related development, Oman Police announced the arrest of an individual of Asian nationality for recording a video of the crash. Authorities stated that the video depicted the bodies of the victims, prompting legal action against the individual. The incident has sparked discussions about road safety and the ethical implications of recording such tragic events. The police have not disclosed further details about the accident’s cause or the identities of those involved, but investigations are ongoing.
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Has the clock stopped on Swiss US trade?
The Swiss economy, renowned for its competitiveness and innovation, faces unprecedented challenges as US-imposed tariffs of 39% on Swiss goods take a heavy toll. Despite Switzerland’s significant contributions to the US economy, including creating 400,000 jobs through investments, President Trump’s trade policies have left the Alpine nation grappling with economic setbacks. Swiss President Karin Keller-Sutter’s efforts to negotiate a reduction in tariffs have so far proven futile, leaving Swiss exporters in a precarious position. Approximately 17% of Swiss exports, valued at billions, are destined for the US market, making the tariffs a severe blow to key industries. While pharmaceuticals, Switzerland’s most lucrative export to the US, remain unaffected for now, the threat of a 100% tariff on imported medicines looms large. The medical technology sector, a global leader in precision engineering, is also at risk. Companies like MPS, which produce advanced medical devices, face immense pressure as the tariffs erode already slim profit margins. Swiss business leaders argue that the tariffs are not only unjustified but also counterproductive, potentially driving up costs for US patients and taxpayers. Despite the challenges, Switzerland is actively diversifying its trade partnerships, securing agreements with India, Mercosur, and China, while maintaining its strong ties with the EU. The long-term impact of the tariffs extends beyond economics, straining the historically robust business relations between Switzerland and the US. While Swiss entrepreneurs remain hopeful for a resolution, the current administration’s approach has left many disillusioned. As Switzerland navigates this trade storm, its resilience and adaptability will be put to the test.
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Japanese fans leave a lasting impression at the Under-20 World Cup in Chile
SANTIAGO, Chile (AP) — The men’s Under-20 World Cup in Chile has lost one of its most vibrant fanbases as Japan’s team was eliminated following a narrow 1-0 defeat to France in the round of 16. Despite the loss, the Japanese supporters left an indelible mark on the tournament with their passionate and disciplined presence. From drums and banners to heartfelt cheers, they transformed stadiums in Santiago and Valparaíso into lively hubs of energy. Their unwavering support for their team, which had a flawless group-stage run, resonated deeply with both players and local fans. Toshi Yoshizawa, a 43-year-old fan who recently moved to Mexico to open a ramen restaurant, shared how the tournament inspired him to cross the ocean. “This World Cup and this national team made it easy for me to make the journey,” he told The Associated Press. Yoshizawa was part of a small but spirited group of fans who had formed connections during the Asian qualifying rounds in China last February. Their camaraderie and enthusiasm were on full display during Wednesday’s match at Santiago’s National Stadium, where players expressed gratitude to Chilean fans through a heartfelt message in their locker room: “Thank you very much, Chile! We are very proud of your culture!” Even after the match, the Japanese fans stayed behind to clean their seats and aisles, adhering to a tradition of leaving a place cleaner than they found it. “It’s one of our teachings growing up,” Yoshizawa explained. Their departure marks the end of a memorable chapter in Chile’s World Cup, but their legacy of sportsmanship and respect will linger.
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Israel approves Trumpâs plan for Gaza ceasefire and hostage release
A multinational force comprising approximately 200 troops, supervised by the US military, has been tasked with overseeing the Gaza ceasefire, as confirmed by a senior US official. The contingent is expected to include personnel from Egypt, Qatar, Turkey, and the UAE. Their primary responsibility will be to monitor, observe, and ensure compliance with the ceasefire agreement, preventing any violations or incursions in Gaza.
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Brazilian justice announces retirement from Supreme Court, opens path for another Lula nominee
In a significant development within Brazil’s judicial landscape, Supreme Court Justice Luís Roberto Barroso announced his early retirement, eight years before the mandatory retirement age of 75. The 67-year-old former chief justice, who stepped down from his leadership role in September, revealed his decision at the conclusion of Thursday’s court session, citing a desire to pursue personal interests and a quieter life. Barroso’s departure creates a pivotal opportunity for President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva to appoint a successor ahead of next year’s general elections, potentially shaping the court’s future direction. Barroso, appointed in 2013 by former President Dilma Rousseff, has been a central figure in high-profile cases, including the conviction of ex-President Jair Bolsonaro for coup-related charges. Bolsonaro, currently under house arrest, faces a 27-year prison sentence for his alleged role in orchestrating the January 8, 2023, riots at the Supreme Court building. Barroso emphasized that his retirement decision predates the current political climate, having informed President Lula of his intentions two years prior. Lula has already nominated two justices to the court this year, signaling his influence over its composition. The 11-member court, which has faced intense scrutiny and pressure since the 2023 riots, remains a critical institution in Brazil’s political and judicial framework.
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Paragliders: The army’s lethal new weapon in Myanmar’s civil war
In a chilling escalation of Myanmar’s ongoing civil war, paramotor attacks have surged in recent months, transforming these low-tech aerial devices into instruments of terror. The latest incident occurred during a Thadingyut festival in Chang U township, Sagaing region, where nearly 100 people had gathered to celebrate the full moon and protest against the military junta. The festive atmosphere turned to horror as a paramotor—a motorized paraglider—dropped bombs on the crowd, killing at least 26 people and injuring dozens more. Witnesses described the attack as ‘mass murder,’ with one survivor recounting the trauma of believing his lower body had been severed. This attack is part of a broader pattern of paramotor strikes that have become a grim hallmark of Myanmar’s conflict. These devices, which can carry up to 160kg of payload, including 120mm bombs, are cheap, easy to operate, and require minimal pilot training. Their low-altitude flight capability allows them to strike with precision, often under the cover of darkness. Military sources reveal that paramotors are produced at Myanmar’s state-owned Heavy Industry Number 10, making them a cost-effective alternative to conventional aircraft. However, their slow speed, vulnerability to ground fire, and inability to operate in severe weather limit their effectiveness. Despite these drawbacks, their use reflects the junta’s strategy of low-cost aerial dominance amid resource constraints. The conflict, which began with a military coup in 2021, has displaced millions and claimed thousands of lives. China’s increasing support for the junta, including arms sales and drone technology, has further complicated the situation. As paramotor attacks target civilian gatherings, the humanitarian crisis deepens, leaving residents with few defenses beyond makeshift bunkers. This new wave of terror underscores the evolving nature of warfare in Myanmar, where innovation meets brutality.
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US makes peso purchase in controversial $20bn Argentina rescue plan
In a bold move to stabilize Argentina’s faltering economy, the United States has announced the purchase of Argentine pesos and finalized a $20 billion financial rescue package. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent confirmed the decision on social media, emphasizing the US commitment to supporting Argentina’s reform agenda. ‘The US Treasury is prepared to take whatever exceptional measures are warranted,’ Bessent stated, underscoring the strategic importance of a stable Argentina for the Western Hemisphere. The announcement has bolstered the peso and Argentine debt in financial markets, though it has reignited domestic debate in the US, where critics argue the funds could be better spent addressing domestic issues like healthcare. Democratic Senator Elizabeth Warren voiced her opposition, questioning the decision to aid Argentina while the US faces its own fiscal challenges. Argentina, grappling with a sharp decline in the peso’s value and dwindling reserves, is set to hold midterm elections on October 26, which will test public support for President Javier Milei’s austerity measures. Milei, a Trump ally, has implemented sweeping deregulation and spending cuts to curb inflation, earning praise from international investors but sparking domestic backlash. The US support has also drawn criticism from American farmers, who fear losing their soybean market to Argentina. Despite the controversy, Bessent defended the move as a bipartisan priority, highlighting the need for a prosperous and stable Argentina. Milei expressed gratitude for the US support, vowing to strengthen economic ties between the two nations.
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Christian Pulisic, Antonee Robinson, Alejandro Zendejas could miss US friendly against Ecuador
AUSTIN, Texas — The United States men’s national soccer team faces potential setbacks ahead of their friendly match against Ecuador on Friday, as key players Christian Pulisic, Antonee Robinson, and Alejandro Zendejas are dealing with fitness issues. U.S. coach Mauricio Pochettino revealed on Thursday that Pulisic and Robinson did not participate in training, while Zendejas is unlikely to feature in the game. Robinson, who underwent right knee surgery in May, is still regaining full fitness. No specific details were provided regarding the conditions of Pulisic and Zendejas. The 16th-ranked U.S. team will also face Australia on Tuesday in Commerce City, Colorado, as part of their preparation for upcoming international fixtures. This month’s matches are crucial, as the team has only four more friendlies scheduled before Pochettino assembles the squad for pre-World Cup training camp in 2026. Pochettino, who took over the team in October 2024 following Gregg Berhalter’s dismissal after a disappointing Copa America campaign, has emphasized the need to rebuild the team’s culture and competitiveness. Under his leadership, the U.S. has shown signs of improvement, ending a seven-game winless streak against top 25 nations with a 2-0 victory over Japan last month. Pochettino has vowed to foster a competitive environment, ensuring no player feels assured of a spot on the World Cup roster.
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Alex Jones asks US Supreme Court to block billion-dollar defamation ruling against him
Controversial right-wing figure Alex Jones has petitioned the US Supreme Court to temporarily suspend a staggering $1.5 billion defamation judgment against him, which threatens the forced sale of his media company, Infowars. The judgment stems from Jones’ repeated false claims that the 2012 Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting was a hoax. Jones argues that selling Infowars to satirical news site The Onion, backed by the victims’ families, would cause irreparable harm to him and his 30 million followers. The sale was previously rejected in a bankruptcy auction last year. Jones is now seeking to pause the judgment while his appeal is considered, with the Supreme Court expected to review his application privately on Friday. His legal team contends that Jones, as a media defendant, should be protected under the First Amendment, warning that the judgment could set a dangerous precedent for journalists, stifling free speech. Jones’ attorneys also claim the bankruptcy auction was marred by collusion, a claim dismissed by the court. In his application, Jones warned of “irreparable injury” if Infowars is sold to its “ideological nemesis” and dismantled. The Sandy Hook shooting, which claimed the lives of 20 children and six adults, remains one of the deadliest school massacres in US history. Jones, who has since acknowledged the attack as “100% real,” previously propagated baseless conspiracy theories, accusing victims’ families of being “crisis actors” and claiming the tragedy was staged to restrict gun rights.