Original title: Hamas hands over Israeli hostages Tal Shoham and Avera Mengisto to Red Cross
Hamas has handed over two Israeli hostages, Tal Shoham and Avera Mengistu, to the International Committee of the Red Cross in Rafah, marking the first phase of a larger hostage exchange deal. This handover is part of a ceasefire agreement, with Hamas planning to release a total of six hostages in exchange for approximately 600 Palestinian prisoners. The Israeli military confirmed that the two hostages are now in their custody. The ceremony was conducted under tight security, with masked Hamas militants present, and included the display of weaponry claimed to have been taken from the Israeli military during the October 2023 conflict. The Red Cross has emphasized the importance of conducting such handovers in a dignified manner. The release of the hostages comes amid ongoing tensions, including accusations from Israel regarding a misidentified body returned by Hamas, which has threatened the fragile truce. The families of the hostages are anxiously awaiting their return, while the Israeli government prepares for the next stages of the exchange.
Original title: Trump fires CQ Brown Jr as chair of Joint Chiefs in military shake-up
Donald Trump dismissed General CQ Brown Jr. from his position as chair of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, marking a significant change in military leadership. This decision aligns with a broader initiative led by Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth to eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts within the military. Hegseth had previously expressed skepticism about Brown's appointment, questioning whether it was based on merit or race. Brown, who had been recognized for his contributions to breaking racial barriers in the military, was replaced by retired Lt Gen Dan Caine, who Trump praised for his past military performance. Caine's appointment is part of a larger overhaul at the Pentagon, which includes potential firings of civilian staff and changes to military deployments under Trump's America First policy. Hegseth indicated that Trump is seeking to fill several other high-level military positions, further indicating a significant shift in military leadership. While Caine has extensive military experience, his qualifications for the chair position may raise questions due to specific legal prerequisites outlined in the Goldwater-Nichols Act, which can be waived by the president.
Original title: Esther Ghey: ‘I refuse to let them impact the rest of my life’
Esther Ghey's memoir, 'Under a Pink Sky,' recounts her life and the tragic murder of her transgender daughter, Brianna, by two teenagers in February 2023. The book serves as both a personal narrative and a critique of the dangers posed by smartphones and online spaces. Ghey reflects on her troubled past, including struggles with addiction and self-worth, paralleling Brianna's challenges with bullying and social media addiction. The memoir highlights the impact of technology on youth mental health, detailing Brianna's descent into harmful online communities and her eventual murder. Ghey emphasizes the importance of forgiveness, both for Brianna's killers and for herself, as she navigates her grief and seeks to raise awareness about online safety for children. The book aims to shed light on Brianna's true self and Ghey's journey of healing, advocating for safer technology for young users.
Original title: US envoy praises Zelenskyy as Trump criticizes him amid chaotic foreign policy approach
The US envoy to Ukraine, Gen Keith Kellogg, commended President Volodymyr Zelenskyy as a courageous leader during his recent visit, contrasting sharply with Donald Trump's derogatory remarks about Zelenskyy, whom he labeled a dictator. Trump has criticized Ukraine for the war with Russia and suggested that Zelenskyy is unimportant in negotiations, while also boasting of better relations with Putin. Elon Musk supported Trump's stance, alleging corruption in Ukraine without evidence. Despite Kellogg's pro-Ukrainian stance, the differing rhetoric highlights a chaotic US foreign policy approach. Negotiations between the US and Ukraine regarding access to Ukraine's mineral resources are ongoing, with Zelenskyy hesitant to sign agreements without security guarantees. European leaders have expressed alarm over Trump's comments, reaffirming their support for Zelenskyy and democratic values. A recent poll shows a significant approval rating for Zelenskyy among Ukrainians, countering Trump's claims of his unpopularity. Ukrainian civil society organizations have stated that elections cannot be held during the ongoing war, emphasizing that legitimacy rests with the Ukrainian people and that polls should only occur after a ceasefire.
Original title: German police arrest man suspected in stabbing at Berlin Holocaust memorial
A man has been arrested by German police in connection with a stabbing incident at Berlin's Holocaust memorial, which left a 30-year-old Spanish tourist seriously injured. The attack occurred on a Friday evening, and while the exact motive remains unclear, it coincides with a tense national election period in Germany. Police spokesperson Florian Nath reported that the suspect approached officers with blood on his hands, raising their suspicions. The weapon used in the attack was seized by authorities. The memorial, a significant site commemorating the six million Jews killed during the Holocaust, has become a focal point amid rising tensions related to immigration and far-right politics in Germany. This incident follows other violent attacks, including a stabbing linked to an Afghan immigrant, which has intensified discussions surrounding immigration policies. Additionally, an 18-year-old ethnic Chechen was arrested earlier on the same day for allegedly planning an attack on the Israeli embassy in Berlin.
Original title: Young e-scooter riders face huge insurance premiums, warns MoneySuperMarket
Young people using private electric scooters on roads and pavements may face significant increases in car insurance premiums, according to MoneySuperMarket. Since 2020, nearly 800 children aged 13 to 16 have received an IN10 endorsement for driving uninsured vehicles, likely linked to e-scooter use, which is illegal in public spaces. This endorsement remains on a driving record for four years and can add approximately £1,000 to annual car insurance costs. For instance, a 17- to 19-year-old with no offences might pay an average of £1,766, while one with an IN10 could see their premium rise to £2,767. Similarly, drivers aged 20 to 29 face a jump from £1,272 to £2,272 with an IN10. Experts emphasize the importance of responsible e-scooter use and advise parents to discuss the legal implications and potential financial consequences with their teens.
Original title: Brazilian city declares emergency as sinkholes threaten homes
Authorities in Buriticupu, Maranhão state, Brazil, have declared a state of emergency due to significant sinkholes threatening hundreds of homes. Approximately 1,200 residents are at risk as the sinkholes, known locally as 'voçoroca', have expanded dramatically in recent months, exacerbated by heavy rains and poor land management practices over the past 30 years. The sandy soil in the area, combined with deforestation and inadequate construction planning, has made the region particularly vulnerable to erosion. Local officials acknowledge the municipality's limited capacity to address the complex issues posed by the sinkholes, which include both erosion and the need to relocate affected residents. Experts warn that the situation may worsen if heavy rains continue, raising concerns among long-time residents about the safety of their homes.
Original title: Keir Starmer to avoid confrontation with Trump over Ukraine during US visit
Keir Starmer is set to meet Donald Trump in the US next week, aiming to ease rising tensions over Ukraine. Trump recently criticized Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron for not doing enough to end the war, while also making controversial claims about Ukraine and its president, Volodymyr Zelenskyy. European leaders, including German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, have condemned Trump's remarks as dangerous, and Zelenskyy accused him of being misinformed. While Macron plans to confront Trump about appearing weak against Putin, Starmer intends to focus on future cooperation rather than past disputes. British officials emphasize a bridging role between the US and Europe, contrasting with Macron's tougher stance. Starmer's visit coincides with new UK sanctions against Russia and discussions on increasing bilateral trade. He hopes to leverage goodwill from Trump to secure support for European troops in Ukraine and plans to highlight his commitment to raising defense spending. However, some advisors urge a more direct approach to ensure a strong message against Putin's demands.
Original title: Long-overdue laws to protect children forced into selling drugs across county lines will save lives
New legislation in England and Wales aims to combat the exploitation of children in drug trafficking and other criminal activities. The law introduces specific offenses for using children in crime, with potential prison sentences of up to ten years for offenders. Child criminal exploitation prevention orders will restrict the activities of suspected groomers, with breaches resulting in up to five years in prison. The legislation follows tragic incidents, including the death of a 14-year-old boy who had been groomed by gangs. Charities and former children's commissioners have welcomed the changes, emphasizing the need to focus on perpetrators rather than victims. The law acknowledges that children cannot consent to their exploitation, although it does not alter the age of criminal responsibility. The government aims to protect vulnerable children, with estimates suggesting that 14,500 children were at risk of exploitation last year. Personal accounts from former victims highlight the dangers and pressures faced by children involved in drug trafficking.
Original title: Increased screen time linked to higher myopia risk in children, experts warn
Research indicates that increased screen time significantly raises the risk of myopia among young people. A study analyzing 45 studies with over 335,000 participants found that each additional hour of screen time correlates with a 21% increase in the likelihood of developing myopia. For children already diagnosed with myopia, an extra hour of screen use raises the odds of worsening the condition by 54%. The risk escalates sharply with more screen time, showing a 97% increase for four hours daily. While genetics play a role, factors like limited outdoor time and prolonged close-up focus contribute to the condition's rise. The study suggests a potential safety threshold for screen use under one hour, but limitations exist, including reliance on self-reported data and the inability to establish causation. Experts emphasize the importance of outdoor exposure and caution against excessive screen time, particularly for children, as worsening myopia can lead to serious eye health issues.
Original title: Stormzy denies compromising beliefs for commercial gain after McDonald's criticism
Stormzy has faced backlash for his advertising partnership with McDonald's, particularly due to the company's ties to Israel amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The rapper promotes a 'Stormzy meal' in a new campaign, which has drawn criticism from supporters of Palestine, especially after a boycott against McDonald's was organized following the company's franchise owner's actions in Israel. Despite the controversy, McDonald's clarified that it does not support any governments involved in the conflict and that local actions were made independently. Stormzy, a known supporter of Palestine, stated that his previous Instagram post advocating for Palestine was archived for personal reasons and not due to the criticism he received. He emphasized that he conducts his own research on brands he collaborates with and has not compromised his beliefs for commercial gain. Critics, including Jeremy Corbyn's Peace & Justice Project, argue that his partnership with McDonald's allows the company to improve its public image. Stormzy is also expected to release new music soon, following his successful previous albums and singles.
Original title: ‘It feels like we’ve lost our way’: Germans voice fears ahead of crucial elections
Germany's railways, once a source of pride, now reflect a broader national malaise as citizens express concerns about the rise of the far-right Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) party ahead of crucial elections. Conversations across cities like Magdeburg, Bremerhaven, Gelsenkirchen, and Dresden reveal fears of increasing polarization and a potential regression to populism. Many citizens lament bureaucratic inefficiencies and rising energy costs, while others emphasize the importance of protecting democracy and the need for migrants in an aging society. The recent attack at a Christmas market has intensified discussions around security and migration, with some fearing that the AfD's policies could lead to deportations. Amidst these tensions, there are calls for unity and a focus on pressing issues like environmental degradation and economic stagnation, as well as a desire for a more inclusive dialogue about immigration. The upcoming elections are seen as pivotal, with many hoping for a coalition that prioritizes democratic values over far-right ideologies.
The war in Ukraine has escalated with unprecedented drone usage, posing severe challenges for soldiers and medics alike. Infantryman Sasha recounts his harrowing experiences of evading drone attacks while sustaining injuries from shrapnel. Medical personnel in field hospitals face dire conditions, often using rudimentary techniques to treat wounded soldiers, as they navigate the dangers of drone warfare that complicate timely medical evacuations. The field hospital serves as a critical first stop for injured soldiers, but the presence of drones often leaves casualties stranded, preventing medics from reaching them in the crucial 'golden hour.' As the conflict continues, the psychological toll on medics is profound, with many experiencing trauma and emotional distress from the relentless suffering they witness. Despite the challenges, the resolve of Ukrainian healthcare workers remains strong, as they continue to fight for their land and people, often at great personal cost.
Original title: Judeo-Christian values at heart of rightwing conference in London
A recent conference in London, organized by the Alliance for Responsible Citizenship (Arc), gathered around 4,000 attendees, including prominent rightwing figures, to discuss the perceived crisis facing western civilization due to a departure from its Judeo-Christian foundations. Speakers like Kemi Badenoch and Nigel Farage highlighted the importance of these values, with Farage advocating for increased birth rates to restore traditional culture. The conference, while not overtly religious, was influenced by evangelical Christian perspectives, particularly through its co-founders, Philippa Stroud and Jordan Peterson. The term 'Judeo-Christian values' was frequently referenced, with some critics arguing it serves as a code for Islamophobia. The influence of evangelical Christianity in UK politics has been growing, particularly within the Conservative party, as evidenced by the emergence of socially conservative MPs. However, the evangelical presence remains relatively marginal compared to the US, where such groups have a more significant political role. Despite their increasing visibility, evangelical Christians face challenges in a largely secular UK, where their views often conflict with liberal democratic principles. The conference showcased a blend of conservative Christians, social conservatives, and libertarians, united by opposition to internationalism and other progressive ideologies.
Original title: Could noise-cancelling headphones be harming your hearing?
Noise-cancelling headphones are praised for improving commutes and reducing background noise, but concerns have emerged regarding their potential impact on auditory processing skills. Audiologists, including Renee Almeida, have noted an increase in adults experiencing auditory processing disorder (APD) symptoms, despite normal hearing tests. Almeida suggests that constant use of noise-cancelling technology may hinder the brain's ability to process multiple sound sources, leading to difficulties in locating sounds and following conversations. Although there is no scientific evidence linking noise-cancelling headphones directly to APD, experts agree that further research is necessary. Other audiologists, like Dr. Cheryl Edwards, highlight the challenges children with APD face in educational settings, while Harvey Dillon emphasizes that auditory processing skills develop over time and can be disrupted by factors like ear infections. Despite the concerns, some experts argue that noise-cancelling headphones can be beneficial, particularly for neurodiverse individuals, and recommend alternative listening methods and training to mitigate potential issues.