Heather Humphreys, a Fine Gael candidate for the Irish presidency, has emphasized the importance of fostering unity and extending friendship to unionists in Northern Ireland as discussions about a potential referendum on a united Ireland gain momentum. Speaking to RTÉ, Humphreys, who hails from a Presbyterian background in Monaghan, highlighted her family’s historical ties to the Ulster Covenant of 1912, a pledge against Irish home rule. She expressed pride in her heritage, stating, “I come from the tradition of 1798, the United Irishmen. I’m very proud of my tradition, I’m very proud of where I come from.” Humphreys believes the Irish president’s role is crucial in laying the groundwork for dialogue and reconciliation, particularly with the approximately one million Northern Irish citizens who identify as British. She described herself as uniquely positioned to bridge divides, given her background and identity as a product of the Republic of Ireland. Humphreys also reaffirmed her commitment to the Good Friday Agreement, which stipulates that a border poll can only occur if a majority in Northern Ireland supports unification. Additionally, she addressed her relationship with the Irish language, acknowledging its importance and pledging to improve her proficiency. Despite criticism for not advancing her Irish-speaking skills as promised, Humphreys expressed her intent to return to Gaeltacht areas to refresh her knowledge and inspire others to embrace the language.
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Authorities identify 16 victims in Tennessee munitions factory explosion
A devastating explosion at Accurate Energetic Systems, a munitions plant in Hickman County, Tennessee, has claimed the lives of 16 individuals. The incident occurred on the morning of October 10, 2025, completely leveling one of the company’s buildings. Law enforcement officials, including Sheriffs Chris Davis of Humphreys County and Jason Craft of Hickman County, released the names of the victims during a press briefing on Monday. The victims are Jason Adams, Erick Anderson, Billy Baker, Adam Boatman, Christopher Clark, Mindy Clifton, James Cook, Reyna Gillahan, LaTeisha Mays, Jeremy Moore, Melinda Rainey, Melissa Stanford, Trenton Stewart, Rachel Woodall, Steven Wright, and Donald Yowell. The sheriffs emphasized the need to support the families of the victims during this difficult time. The cause of the explosion remains unknown, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) is conducting an investigation. Initially, authorities feared that 18 people had died, but two individuals believed to be on-site were later found elsewhere. The tragedy has deeply affected the close-knit community of Bucksnort, Tennessee, where the plant is located. Aerial footage of the scene revealed charred debris, smouldering vehicles, and little remaining of the facility but rubble. Residents shared heartfelt stories about the victims, highlighting the strong bonds within the community. The explosion has prompted a shift from rescue to recovery efforts, as the site remains too dangerous for first responders.
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Exclusive: ICC senior officials accused of ‘prejudice’ over Karim Khan probe
The International Criminal Court (ICC) is under intense scrutiny for its handling of a sexual misconduct complaint against Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan. Middle East Eye (MEE) has revealed that the complainant was in contact with Margareta Kassangana, a vice president of the ICC’s governing body, the Assembly of States Parties (ASP), before the case was referred to the United Nations’ Office of Internal Oversight Services (OIOS) for an external investigation. This unprecedented move has raised concerns about due process and Khan’s right to privacy. Kassangana’s involvement in discussions with the complainant prior to the investigation has further complicated the matter, casting doubts on the impartiality of the process. Meanwhile, another ASP member, Ugandan Ambassador Mirjam Blaak, has been accused of prejudicial conduct after a recording surfaced of her making inappropriate remarks about Khan’s accuser, suggesting his guilt was pre-determined. The Pan-African Business Forum (PABF) has called for an independent investigation into Blaak’s conduct, citing it as evidence of bias within the ASP. The ICC’s handling of the case has drawn widespread criticism, with former ICC judge Cuno Tarfusser expressing deep concern over the breach of confidentiality and the potential undermining of the court’s integrity. Khan, who has been on leave since May 2024, denies the allegations, and internal investigations were closed after the complainant refused to cooperate.
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Gaza: Tributes pour in for slain Palestinian journalist Saleh al-Jafarawi
The tragic death of Palestinian journalist and activist Saleh al-Jafarawi has sparked an outpouring of grief and tributes across social media. Jafarawi, 28, was fatally shot multiple times on Sunday while covering clashes between an Israel-backed militia and Hamas fighters in Gaza City. His killing occurred just days after a ceasefire agreement was announced between Israel and Hamas, casting a shadow over hopes for peace in the region.
Al Jazeera reported that the armed militia sought to exploit the security vacuum following the ceasefire announcement. The clashes also claimed the lives of several displaced Palestinians, further escalating tensions in the besieged enclave.
Jafarawi, known for his courageous reporting and hopeful demeanor, had become a symbol of Palestinian resilience. Over the past two years, he documented the ongoing conflict in Gaza, earning widespread admiration for his dedication to truth and justice. Social media users and fellow journalists mourned his loss, with many highlighting his unwavering commitment to his people and his land.
‘He loved his people, he loved his religion, he loved his land. He covered the genocide for two years as the powers of the world tried to silence his voice,’ wrote a prominent pro-Palestine account on Instagram. ‘His voice will live on, even after the occupation ends.’
Jafarawi’s death has also reignited discussions about the dangers faced by journalists in Gaza. According to Brown University’s Watson Institute, Israel has killed more journalists in Gaza than in any other modern conflict, surpassing even the toll of major wars like World War II and the Vietnam War.
The tragedy is compounded by the fact that Jafarawi’s brother, Naji, was among the Palestinian prisoners released as part of the ceasefire agreement. Naji will now return home to bury his brother instead of celebrating their reunion.
Jafarawi’s legacy as a voice of truth and courage continues to inspire, even as the world mourns his untimely death. His work and sacrifice serve as a stark reminder of the human cost of conflict and the enduring struggle for justice in Palestine.
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Watch: Heavy rain and flooding as Nor’easter slams multiple US states
A powerful Nor’easter, characterized by its cyclonic winds blowing from the northeast in the Atlantic Ocean, has wreaked havoc across several U.S. states. The storm brought relentless heavy rainfall, leading to widespread flooding in affected areas. Coastal regions bore the brunt of the tempest, with strong winds exacerbating the already dire conditions. Emergency services have been deployed to assist residents, as many communities grapple with submerged roads, damaged infrastructure, and power outages. Meteorologists warn that the Nor’easter’s impact could persist, urging residents to remain vigilant and adhere to safety advisories. This severe weather event underscores the increasing frequency and intensity of such storms, raising concerns about climate change’s role in shaping extreme weather patterns.
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Israeli hostages, Palestinian prisoners freed in ceasefire deal
In a significant development in the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, a US-brokered ceasefire agreement has led to the release of 20 Israeli hostages held by Hamas and the liberation of 250 Palestinian prisoners serving life sentences in Israeli jails. The exchange, which took place on October 13, 2025, marks a pivotal moment in the protracted conflict that has plagued the region for years. Among the released Palestinians, 135 will be deported abroad, while 14 will return to their homes in East Jerusalem. In return, Israel has committed to releasing over 2,000 Palestinian detainees. The deal, however, has not been without controversy. Reports emerged of Israeli forces raiding the homes of Palestinian prisoners, including Ahmed Ka’abneh, who has been imprisoned since 1997. Additionally, a Palestinian man was shot in the foot during a demonstration outside Ofer military prison. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hailed the release of the hostages as a ‘historic event’ but emphasized that the military campaign is far from over. US President Donald Trump, en route to Israel, acknowledged Hamas’s rearming in Gaza, stating that the US had temporarily approved it. The disarmament of Hamas remains a contentious issue in the ceasefire negotiations, with no clear resolution in sight.
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Watch: ‘You upgraded me to president’ – Carney jokes with Trump after misstatement
In a moment of levity during the high-profile ‘Summit for Peace,’ Canadian Prime Minister Justin Carney shared a humorous exchange with US President Donald Trump following a minor verbal slip. The incident occurred when Trump inadvertently referred to Carney as ‘president’ instead of ‘prime minister.’ Seizing the opportunity for a light-hearted remark, Carney quipped, ‘You upgraded me to president,’ eliciting laughter from the audience and easing the formal atmosphere of the event. The exchange highlighted the cordial relationship between the two leaders, even amidst the serious discussions on global peace and diplomacy. This brief yet memorable interaction underscored the importance of maintaining a balance between professionalism and camaraderie in international relations.
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The UN nuclear watchdog seeks a local truce to restore power to the Zaporizhzhia plant
The United Nations’ nuclear watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), is actively negotiating with Ukraine and Russia to establish localized ceasefires aimed at restoring external power to the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant in Ukraine. According to two anonymous diplomats familiar with the discussions, the plant, which is Europe’s largest, has been operating on diesel generators since September 23 after its last external power line was severed. The facility, currently under Russian control, is not operational but requires consistent power to cool its six shutdown reactors and spent fuel, preventing potential nuclear disasters. The IAEA has repeatedly raised concerns about the precarious situation at the plant. The proposed plan involves a two-phase approach to repair damaged power lines. The first phase would establish a 1.5-kilometer ceasefire zone to repair the Dniprovska 750-kilovolt line, located in Russian-controlled territory. The second phase would focus on repairing the Ferosplavna-1 330-kilovolt backup line in Ukrainian-controlled territory. IAEA experts would oversee the repairs, initially scheduled for October 11-17. However, while Ukraine has provided guarantees for safe passage, Russia has yet to do so, delaying the process. A Russian diplomat stated that preparations are underway, and repairs could commence soon. IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi has been engaging intensively with both sides to prevent a nuclear accident. The plant has experienced ten blackouts since the war began, with the latest being the longest. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy accused Russia of lacking interest in restoring safety, emphasizing the need for international pressure.
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Palestinian prisoners being released from Israeli jails
In a significant development in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, a prisoner-hostage exchange has been initiated as part of a broader ceasefire agreement. On October 13, 2025, Israeli authorities began releasing Palestinian prisoners from jails, following Hamas’ release of 20 Israeli hostages earlier in the day. The exchange, mediated by international parties, marks a critical step toward de-escalating tensions in the region. According to the agreement, approximately 2,000 Palestinian detainees are set to be freed. Meanwhile, Israel confirmed the safe return of 13 hostages, the last living Israelis held by Hamas in Gaza. These individuals are currently being escorted by Israeli soldiers and Shin Bet agents, undergoing medical assessments before reuniting with their families. Hamas has reiterated its commitment to fulfilling its obligations under the truce pact, emphasizing the role of mediators in ensuring Israel’s compliance. Additionally, Hamas officials announced plans to return the remains of 28 deceased hostages later on Monday. The Israeli military released photos of the returned hostages, showing them in good health. This exchange, while a temporary respite, underscores the fragile nature of the ceasefire and the complexities of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
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‘Your appointment’s rescheduled’: Shutdown cancels US citizenship ceremonies
On a Saturday morning in Virginia, a group of individuals from diverse backgrounds gathered at a U.S. immigration office, eager to complete their journey to becoming American citizens. Clutching their naturalization notices, they passed through security and lined up at the check-in desk, anticipating the solemn yet celebratory moment of taking the Oath of Allegiance. However, their hopes were abruptly dashed when they learned the ceremony had been canceled due to the ongoing government shutdown. None had received prior notifications, and the USCIS website, which later revealed the cancellation, had been temporarily inaccessible. The notice cited ‘unforeseen circumstances’ and expressed regret for the inconvenience. The cancellation left many in distress. One woman in a hijab feared discrimination, while a man who had brought his family to celebrate now faced uncertainty. Others worried about the impact on their work, lives, and plans. For many, this was more than an inconvenience—it was a disruption to years of effort, including navigating paperwork, interviews, and preparing for the citizenship test. The group was told to return on November 1, but with the shutdown unresolved, even that date is uncertain. While USCIS is largely funded by application fees and typically remains operational during shutdowns, its director, Joseph Edlow, stated that public-facing services like interviews and naturalization ceremonies could face delays. The exact number of canceled ceremonies nationwide remains unclear, though anecdotal reports suggest others have been affected. The shutdown, stemming from a deadlock between Republicans and Democrats over government funding since October 1, has left over 700,000 federal workers on unpaid leave. Combined with recent rapid changes to U.S. immigration policies, the anxiety among aspiring citizens continues to grow. The political stalemate in Washington is now directly impacting the lives and futures of those hoping to make the U.S. their permanent home.