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At least 25 killed in India after bus catches fire in crash with motorcycle

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Simeon Bateren
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KURNOOL, India (BN24) — A devastating crash in southern India on Friday morning left at least 25 people dead when a passenger bus caught fire after colliding with a motorcycle on a highway in Andhra Pradesh. The fire, which quickly engulfed the vehicle, trapped dozens of passengers, many of whom were sleeping at the time of the crash.

The tragic accident occurred near Chinnatekuru village in Kurnool district, about 130 miles south of the state capital, Hyderabad. Police confirmed that the bus, which was traveling between Hyderabad in Telangana state and Bengaluru in Karnataka, was carrying 44 passengers at the time of the incident.

According to senior police officer Vikrant Patil, the crash occurred when the motorcycle collided with the rear of the bus, which was speeding along the highway. The motorcycle became lodged beneath the vehicle, dragging behind it for some distance. The friction caused by the dragging motorcycle ignited sparks, which then triggered a fire in the bus’s fuel tank.

“The fire started rapidly, and within minutes the entire bus was consumed by flames,” Patil said. “Many of the passengers were asleep at the time and did not have time to react when the fire broke out.”

Passengers who were awake managed to break windows and escape the burning vehicle. Authorities said 18 people, including a few with minor injuries, were able to flee the bus, but it is unclear how many others managed to get out. Tragically, many passengers were unable to escape the inferno in time.

“Some people were able to smash windows and jump out, while others were trapped and burned alive,” Patil said. “By the time we arrived, the fire had already spread through the bus, and the situation was beyond control.”

The bus driver attempted to extinguish the fire using a fire extinguisher, but the flames were too intense. Firefighters arrived at the scene, but by that point, the bus was hollowed out, and the damage was already catastrophic. Authorities said the unidentified motorcycle rider, whose body was found near the bus, also died in the incident.

A forensic team is investigating the cause of the crash, though officials have ruled out foul play. Preliminary findings suggest that the collision and the subsequent fire were the primary causes of the fatalities.

The tragic accident highlights ongoing safety concerns in India’s transportation system, especially concerning passenger buses. Earlier this month, at least 20 people were killed in a similar incident in Rajasthan, where a suspected short circuit triggered a fire on a bus.

The bus was part of a fleet operating between Hyderabad and Bengaluru, two major cities in southern India. The incident occurred on National Highway 44, a key route connecting southern and northern India. It is unclear how many passengers had boarded the bus at the time of the crash, as the official passenger list is still being verified.

The local government and Indian authorities have vowed to investigate the incident thoroughly. The regional police chief confirmed that investigators are reviewing both the bus’s mechanical condition and possible human error.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences on social media, calling the loss “heartbreaking.” Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu also extended his sympathies to the families of the victims. The state government has promised compensation for the families of those who died in the fire.

Local villagers who witnessed the scene have described the incident as chaotic, with several people desperately trying to help others escape from the burning bus.

“The smoke and flames were so thick. It was difficult to see anything,” said one resident, who declined to give their name. “We could hear people shouting, but the fire was too strong. It was too late to help.”

This incident underscores the persistent issue of road safety in India, where traffic accidents and fires on passenger vehicles are frequent. In recent years, authorities have pushed for better enforcement of safety standards, but incidents like this continue to highlight the vulnerability of both passengers and drivers.

The deadly fire has also sparked calls for greater safety regulations for inter-state buses, especially in light of the growing number of fatalities linked to fires and crashes on Indian highways.

9-year-old girl found dead in Oxfordshire home after reported assault on 3 children

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A nine-year-old girl was found dead inside a home in the quiet Oxfordshire village of Islip after police were called to reports that three children had been assaulted on Tuesday, authorities said.

Thames Valley Police said officers discovered three children at the property. Two were rushed to the hospital for treatment and later discharged, while the third child — a nine-year-old girl — was pronounced dead at the scene by paramedics.

A 49-year-old woman from Oxfordshire was also taken to the hospital in what police described as a life-threatening condition. She remains under police supervision while receiving medical care.

Detective Inspector Amy Fox, the senior investigating officer, called the incident “an unimaginable tragedy” and confirmed that investigators are not currently seeking anyone else in connection with the case. “Our deepest sympathies are with the child’s family, friends, and all who knew and loved her,” Fox said. “We are doing everything we can to support those affected and to uncover the full circumstances behind this heartbreaking event.”

Detective Chief Inspector Sally Spencer said a post-mortem examination had been conducted but that the cause of death has not yet been determined. The child’s family is being supported by specially trained officers as the investigation continues.

A police cordon was set up around the home while forensic teams examined the scene. Officers have since concluded their work at the property but will maintain a visible presence in the area throughout the weekend to reassure residents and gather any additional information.

“This remains a highly sensitive and complex investigation,” Fox added. “We encourage anyone with concerns or information to speak with our officers.”

Residents of Islip expressed shock and sorrow at the tragedy, describing the area as a normally peaceful community.

“I’ve lived here for 15 years. Nothing like this has ever happened,” said neighbor Vicky Preston, 50. “It’s an absolute tragedy. My heart goes out to the family and friends who knew her.”

Another resident, who asked not to be named, said she was the one who called police after the children ran to her for help. “It’s just awful. They’re traumatized,” she said.

Others in the close-knit village echoed the devastation. “They were a busy young family, always working,” one neighbor said. “It’s terribly sad — I can’t imagine what on earth must have happened.”

Thames Valley Police said updates will be provided as soon as further details become available.

Source: thesun.uk

U.S. sanctions Colombia’s president as Trump accuses Petro of fueling drug trade

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WASHINGTON (BN24)  — The United States imposed sanctions Friday on Colombian President Gustavo Petro, intensifying a growing feud between President Donald Trump and one of Washington’s longtime Latin American allies. The move followed Trump’s public accusations that Petro has failed to curb cocaine production and allowed drug cartels to thrive.

The unprecedented sanctions target Petro personally, along with his wife, son, and Colombia’s Interior Minister Armando Benedetti, under U.S. authorities that allow punitive measures against those allegedly involved in international narcotics trafficking. The decision marks a major rupture in decades of close U.S.-Colombian cooperation on anti-drug efforts.

“Since President Gustavo Petro came to power, cocaine production in Colombia has exploded to the highest rate in decades, flooding the United States and poisoning Americans,” Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said in a statement. “President Petro has allowed drug cartels to flourish and refused to stop this activity. Today, President Trump is taking strong action to protect our nation and make clear that we will not tolerate the trafficking of drugs into our nation.”

The sanctions, among the harshest ever imposed on a sitting Colombian president, place Petro on a short list of sanctioned world leaders that includes those of Russia, Venezuela, and North Korea.

Petro, a leftist and former guerrilla, fired back on X, calling the move “a complete paradox.” He wrote, “Fighting drug trafficking for decades, and effectively, has brought me this measure from the government of the very society we helped so much to stop their cocaine consumption. But not one step back, and never on our knees.”

The confrontation erupted after Petro accused the U.S. of “murder” for firing at a civilian boat off the Venezuelan coast that he said belonged to “a humble family,” not a rebel group. Trump responded by labeling Petro “an illegal drug leader,” accusing him of shielding traffickers and undermining regional stability.

Benedetti, who was also sanctioned, denounced the U.S. measures as politically motivated, saying he was targeted merely for defending Petro. “This proves the U.S. anti-drug fight is a sham,” he said on X.

“This is the harshest sanction ever against a sitting Colombian president and his family,” said Sergio Guzman of Colombia Risk Analysis. “If this is the targeted pressure the U.S. has been planning, then the impact will fall directly on Petro’s inner circle rather than the Colombian economy.”

The rift comes amid escalating tensions between Washington and several Latin American governments. U.S. forces have stepped up operations in the southern Caribbean, striking vessels in international waters that American officials claim are drug smuggling routes—though those claims have been disputed by regional leaders.

Trump and Petro have clashed repeatedly since Trump returned to office in January, with disagreements over anti-narcotics strategy and regional security widening the gap. Last weekend, Trump threatened to impose higher tariffs on Colombian imports and confirmed Wednesday that all U.S. funding to the country had been suspended.

In a separate statement Friday, the State Department said Secretary of State Marco Rubio would not certify Colombia’s counter-narcotics efforts, a move that could block additional U.S. assistance.

Petro’s government insists it has made measurable progress in combating drug production. Colombia’s foreign ministry said the country seized more cocaine under Petro than in any previous administration and claimed coca crop expansion has dropped from 43% in 2021 to just 3% in 2024. “President Petro reiterated the importance of the United States basing its assessments on accurate data regarding Colombia’s fight against drugs,” the ministry said in a statement.

Despite those assurances, the Trump administration maintains that Petro’s policies have emboldened traffickers. “We will no longer subsidize failure,” Trump said earlier this week. “Colombia must take real action or face real consequences.”

The sanctions underscore a dramatic realignment in U.S.-Colombia relations, shifting from decades of partnership in anti-narcotics operations to open confrontation between the two governments.

New York Attorney General Letitia James pleads not guilty in mortgage fraud case pushed by Trump

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NewYork (BN24) – New York Attorney General Letitia James pleaded not guilty Friday to federal mortgage fraud charges, accusing President Donald Trump’s administration of using the justice system “as a tool of revenge” against political opponents.

James entered her plea in federal court in Norfolk, Virginia, setting the stage for a politically charged courtroom clash between the Republican president and one of his most prominent Democratic critics. The indictment accuses James of lying on mortgage documents to secure favorable loan terms when purchasing a modest home in Norfolk, where she has family ties.

“My faith is strong, and I have this belief in the justice system and the rule of law, and I have a belief in America,” James said after the hearing. Smiling as she exited the courthouse to chants of “We stand with Tish!” from supporters, she added, “There’s no fear today.”

James, who brought the landmark civil fraud case against Trump that led to a half-billion-dollar judgment against him before it was partially overturned on appeal, said her indictment is political payback. “This is about a justice system being used as a weapon against those who simply did their job and stood up for the rule of law,” she told reporters.

The indictment charges James with bank fraud and making false statements to a financial institution. Prosecutors allege that when purchasing her Norfolk home in 2020, she falsely claimed it would serve as a second residence under a “second home rider” clause, but instead rented it to tenants, enabling her to obtain better loan rates typically unavailable for investment properties.

James’ attorney, Abbe Lowell, said the defense would move to dismiss the case as a “vindictive prosecution” brought at the president’s direction. A trial date was set for Jan. 26.

Her indictment followed the resignation of Erik Siebert, the former U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, who stepped down after Trump administration officials pressured him to pursue charges. Siebert was replaced by Lindsey Halligan, a former Trump lawyer and White House aide with no prior experience as a federal prosecutor. Halligan personally presented the case to a grand jury after being appointed by Attorney General Pam Bondi.

Trump had publicly urged Bondi to prosecute James and other political rivals, posting on his social media platform: “We can’t delay any longer, it’s killing our reputation and credibility. JUSTICE MUST BE SERVED, NOW!!!”

James is the third prominent Trump adversary to face federal charges this month, fueling criticism that the administration is weaponizing the Justice Department. Former FBI Director James Comey and ex–national security adviser John Bolton also pleaded not guilty to charges brought after Trump publicly called for their prosecution.

Defense lawyers for both James and Comey have challenged Halligan’s appointment, citing political interference. James’ legal team has also filed a motion to bar prosecutors from leaking information about the case after Halligan reportedly contacted a journalist through an encrypted messaging platform to discuss details of the prosecution.

The Justice Department is also investigating separate mortgage fraud allegations involving Democratic Sen. Adam Schiff and Federal Reserve Board member Lisa Cook, two other frequent Trump critics who deny wrongdoing.

James, who became New York’s first female attorney general in 2018, has been one of Trump’s most persistent legal adversaries. Her civil fraud lawsuit against Trump and his companies led to findings that he inflated the value of his real estate assets to deceive lenders and insurers. Although an appeals court later reduced the penalty, the case cemented James’ national profile — and made her a target of Trump’s ongoing attacks.

As the legal and political battlelines sharpen, James vowed to keep fighting. “I believe in the rule of law,” she said outside court. “And I will continue to do my job for the people of New York.”

Pentagon sends world’s largest aircraft carrier to South America amid escalating drug war operations

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WASHINGTON (BN24) — The U.S. military is sending the world’s largest aircraft carrier to the waters off South America in the latest escalation and buildup of military forces in the region, the Pentagon announced Friday.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth ordered the USS Gerald R. Ford and its strike group to deploy to U.S. Southern Command to “bolster U.S. capacity to detect, monitor, and disrupt illicit actors and activities that compromise the safety and prosperity of the United States,” Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell said in a social media post.

The deployment will dramatically increase the number of service members and ships dedicated to the Trump administration’s campaign to counter narcotics traffickers in the region.

Parnell said on X that Hegseth “has directed the Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group and embarked carrier air wing to the U.S. Southern Command” area of responsibility. Southern Command is responsible for the Caribbean Sea, Central and South America and the surrounding waters.

The “enhanced U.S. force presence” will “bolster U.S. capacity to detect, monitor, and disrupt illicit actors and activities that compromise the safety and prosperity of the United States homeland and our security in the Western Hemisphere,” Parnell said.

The USS Gerald R. Ford is the Navy’s newest and most advanced aircraft carrier, having been commissioned into service in 2017. At more than eleven hundred feet long with a displacement of one hundred thousand long tons, the carrier is the largest in the world. It is powered by two nuclear reactors and can reach a top speed of thirty-four point five miles per hour, according to the Navy.

The carrier group will join eight U.S. vessels that are already in the region, including three destroyers, one cruiser, a littoral combat ship, an amphibious assault ship and two transport ships.

The Ford is currently in the Mediterranean Sea, a defense official told CBS News, along with three destroyers.

Deploying an aircraft carrier represents a major escalation of military power in a region that has already seen an unusually large U.S. military buildup in the Caribbean Sea and the waters off Venezuela.

News of the decision to send the carrier group to Latin America comes after the U.S. launched another strike on a vessel allegedly operated by the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua that Hegseth said was trafficking drugs in the Caribbean Sea.

The secretary said on X that the strike killed all six men who were on board and took place in international waters. He said it was the first strike to take place at night. “The vessel was known by our intelligence to be involved in illicit narcotics smuggling, was transiting along a known narco-trafficking route, and carrying narcotics,” he wrote. Hegseth posted a video, marked unclassified, showing the vessel as it was hit.

This latest strike appears to be the tenth carried out by the Trump administration against alleged drug trafficking boats over the past several weeks, which have now led to more than forty deaths. The first several took place in the Caribbean Sea, but this week the administration’s campaign broadened into the Pacific Ocean.

The U.S. military has conducted its tenth strike on a suspected drug-running boat, Hegseth said Friday, blaming the Tren de Aragua gang for operating the vessel and leaving six people dead in the Caribbean Sea.

The pace of the strikes has quickened in recent days from one every few weeks when they first began to three this week, killing a total of at least forty-three people since September. Two of the most recent strikes were carried out in the eastern Pacific Ocean, expanding the area where the military has launched attacks and shifting to where much of the cocaine from the world’s largest producers is smuggled.

The aircraft carrier deployment represents the most significant military escalation in the region since the Trump administration began its aggressive counter-narcotics campaign. The addition of the Ford strike group will provide the U.S. military with enhanced surveillance, intelligence-gathering and strike capabilities across a vast maritime area.

The carrier strike group typically includes the aircraft carrier, guided-missile destroyers, guided-missile cruisers and an attack submarine, along with embarked aircraft squadrons. The Ford can carry more than seventy-five aircraft and has a crew of approximately four thousand five hundred sailors.

The deployment comes amid escalating tensions with Venezuela, where President Donald Trump has authorized CIA covert operations and disclosed plans to potentially oust President Nicolas Maduro. Trump said Venezuelan leader Maduro offered “everything” including the country’s natural resources to secure a deal with the United States.

The military buildup in Latin America has raised concerns among legal experts and Democratic lawmakers who question whether the strikes on suspected drug boats adhere to international laws of war. The Trump administration argues it is engaged in a war with narcoterrorist groups from Venezuela, making the strikes legitimate.

Admiral Alvin Holsey, who leads U.S. Southern Command, announced Thursday he would step down at the end of this year, two years ahead of schedule, in a surprise move amid the escalating Venezuela tensions. Sources indicated there had been tension between Holsey and Hegseth over operations in the Caribbean.

Less than a week ago, the Pentagon announced its counter-narcotics operations in the region would not be led by the Miami-based Southern Command but by II Marine Expeditionary Force, a unit capable of rapid overseas operations based at Camp Lejeune in North Carolina. That decision surprised U.S. military observers, since a combatant command like Southern Command would normally lead high-profile operations.

The expanded military presence in Latin American waters reflects the Trump administration’s determination to combat drug trafficking through aggressive military action. The deployment of an aircraft carrier provides capabilities far beyond traditional counter-narcotics operations, including air superiority, strike operations and command and control functions.

Critics have questioned the legal basis for strikes that have killed more than forty people, many of whom were never confirmed to be armed or engaged in hostile actions. The administration maintains the operations target narcoterrorist organizations that pose a direct threat to U.S. national security.

The Ford deployment will significantly expand U.S. military presence in waters where China and Russia have also increased their naval activities in recent years. The carrier provides a powerful symbol of American military might and commitment to the region.

Tinubu sacks Chief of Defence Staff, others and appoints new Service Chiefs in Nigeria

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Simeon Bateren
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ABUJA, Nigeria (BN24)— President Bola Tinubu has launched a sweeping reorganization of Nigeria’s military leadership, appointing new Service Chiefs in a strategic move to reinforce the nation’s response to rising insecurity. The appointments, which take effect immediately, mark one of the most significant military leadership changes since Tinubu assumed office.

General Olufemi Oluyede has been named the new Chief of Defence Staff, replacing General Christopher Musa, whose tenure was characterized by significant operational challenges in the fight against insurgency and banditry across the country. Other appointments include Major-General W. Shaibu as Chief of Army Staff, Air Vice Marshal S.K. Aneke as Chief of Air Staff, and Rear Admiral I. Abbas as Chief of Naval Staff. Major-General E.A.P. Undiendeye retains his position as Chief of Defence Intelligence, ensuring continuity in intelligence operations.

According to the Presidency, the shake-up reflects Tinubu’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture, enhancing coordination among the Army, Navy, and Air Force, and injecting fresh energy into the country’s defence operations. Sunday Dare, the President’s Special Adviser on Media and Public Communication, said the changes “signal a renewed focus on professionalism, operational efficiency, and strategic synergy within the Armed Forces.”

The appointments come amid persistent security challenges across Nigeria, including insurgency in the northeast, banditry in the northwest, and separatist agitations in the southeast. Analysts view Tinubu’s move as an effort to address longstanding operational gaps in military leadership and restore public confidence in the Armed Forces.

President Tinubu expressed gratitude to the outgoing Service Chiefs, particularly General Musa, describing them as patriots who “gave their best to protect the nation.” He urged the new commanders to embrace the responsibilities entrusted to them by prioritizing discipline, vigilance, and unity of purpose. “The expectations of Nigerians are high, and the new Service Chiefs must rise to meet them,” the President said.

Observers note that the appointments reflect a broader strategy by Tinubu’s administration to reform the defence sector and align military leadership with national security priorities. The new leadership team is expected to play a critical role in modernizing operational tactics, improving intelligence-sharing mechanisms, and enhancing coordination with other security agencies.

The decision has already sparked reactions from security experts, lawmakers, and civil society groups, who largely view the overhaul as a necessary step to tackle the country’s complex security landscape. With the new Service Chiefs in place, the Tinubu administration aims to signal resolve, strengthen accountability, and ensure that the Armed Forces remain a credible force in protecting Nigeria’s citizens and national interests.

Police officer struck and killed in the line of duty while helping motorists in another collision

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Simeon Bateren
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La Mesa, Calif (BN24) — A 25-year-old police officer with the La Mesa Police Department was killed on Monday night after being struck by a vehicle while stopping to assist motorists involved in a traffic accident. Officer Lauren Craven, who had joined the department earlier this year, was providing aid on Interstate 8 when the fatal incident occurred just before 10:30 p.m.

According to the La Mesa Police Department, Officer Craven was driving eastbound on I-8 near Fairmount Avenue, returning to La Mesa from San Diego Central Jail, when she saw a collision involving two vehicles. She pulled over to offer assistance and exited her patrol car to help those involved in the crash. Tragically, while she was outside her vehicle, another car struck her.

California Highway Patrol (CHP) officers arrived on the scene shortly after and performed lifesaving efforts, but despite their attempts, Officer Craven was pronounced dead at the scene.

Officer Craven had only joined the La Mesa Police Department in February 2024 and was assigned to the Patrol Division. Described by her peers as tenacious, courageous, and compassionate, she quickly made an impact with her dedication to service.

“The La Mesa Police Department is deeply saddened by the loss of Officer Craven,” a department statement said. “Her selflessness in her final moments reflected the same unwavering commitment to public service that defined her career.”

The California Highway Patrol is handling the investigation, but no further details about the incident or the other individuals involved have been released at this time.

In a statement, the La Mesa Police Department extended its gratitude to the allied agencies supporting them during this difficult time. “We ask that the La Mesa community keep Officer Craven, her family, and the La Mesa Police Department in their thoughts and prayers,” the department added.

The loss of Officer Craven has deeply affected the La Mesa community, where she was known not only for her professional dedication but also for her warmth and compassion. Her peers remember her as a public servant who exemplified the true spirit of law enforcement.

Her legacy of service and sacrifice will be remembered as an enduring example of bravery and commitment to the safety of others. Officer Craven’s death is a tragic reminder of the risks law enforcement officers face in their daily duties.

4 people killed in Israeli air strikes targeting Hezbollah sites in Lebanon

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Simeon Bateren
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LEBANON (BN24) — Four individuals were killed in Israeli air strikes that targeted Hezbollah positions in eastern and southern Lebanon on Thursday, raising fears of a further escalation in tensions between the two sides. According to Lebanon’s health ministry, the air strikes resulted in an initial death toll of two people in the mountainous eastern region of Lebanon. Later reports confirmed that two additional individuals were killed in a separate airstrike in the southern town of Nabatieh, including an elderly woman, as reported by Lebanon’s official National News Agency (NNA).

The NNA had earlier detailed the air raids, describing them as “violent” and launched by Israeli warplanes targeting the eastern mountain range of Lebanon’s Bekaa Valley, an area located near the Syrian border. This region has been a hotspot for Hezbollah’s operations and military infrastructure. The NNA also reported that Israeli strikes targeted the Hermel range, which lies in the country’s northeast.

The Israeli military confirmed that it had launched the air strikes as part of an ongoing effort to target Hezbollah sites in both eastern and northern Lebanon. A statement from the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) claimed that the strikes had destroyed several Hezbollah military positions, including a military camp and a facility involved in the production of precision-guided missiles in the Bekaa Valley. In addition to these, Israeli forces reported having attacked a training camp used by Hezbollah militants, as well as a weapons storage facility located in Nabatieh.

Israel’s strikes are part of a broader campaign against Hezbollah, a Lebanese militant group that is backed by Iran and has been a long-standing adversary of Israel. The group maintains a heavily fortified presence in southern Lebanon, and Israeli officials have repeatedly stated that they will continue to target Hezbollah’s military infrastructure to prevent attacks on Israeli soil.


The airstrikes come despite a ceasefire agreement brokered in November 2024, which had aimed to end over a year of hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah. The ceasefire had initially ended a two-month open war in which both sides launched heavy attacks on each other. Under the ceasefire terms, Israel was expected to withdraw from southern Lebanon, while Hezbollah was to dismantle its military forces in the region. However, despite the agreement, Israel has continued to carry out airstrikes, citing Hezbollah’s ongoing military presence and activities near the border.

The Lebanese government, under increasing international pressure, particularly from the United States, has moved to disarm Hezbollah as part of efforts to prevent further escalation. However, the government faces stiff opposition from Hezbollah and its allies in the Lebanese parliament. These political factions are staunchly against any efforts to disarm the group, which has significant influence in Lebanon’s political and military spheres.


The death of the four Lebanese civilians has deeply shocked the local population and highlighted the human cost of the ongoing Israeli-Hezbollah conflict. The victims were reportedly in areas that had not seen intense fighting for some time, making the attacks all the more alarming for residents.

Lebanon’s National News Agency identified one of the victims as an elderly woman who died in the southern strike near Nabatieh, a town that has historically been a Hezbollah stronghold. The strikes in the Bekaa Valley, a key Hezbollah stronghold, resulted in the other two fatalities, but the names of the victims have not yet been publicly released.

While the Israeli military justifies its airstrikes as necessary to combat Hezbollah’s military buildup in Lebanon, the death toll among civilians has raised concerns about the potential for broader conflict in the region. Many residents of Lebanon are worried that the fragile ceasefire may collapse entirely, leading to a new round of violent conflict between Israel and Hezbollah.


The continued strikes have drawn significant international attention. The United Nations has called for an immediate de-escalation of tensions and a return to diplomatic dialogue. However, despite the UN’s calls for peace, both Israel and Hezbollah remain entrenched in their positions. Israel continues to cite security concerns stemming from Hezbollah’s missile production and military capabilities, while Hezbollah has insisted on maintaining its military presence as a deterrent against Israeli aggression.

The Lebanese government is caught between pressure from the international community to disarm Hezbollah and the political realities of maintaining stability in Lebanon. Hezbollah’s political power in Lebanon is considerable, and any move to disarm the group is likely to provoke significant political unrest. Hezbollah and its allies in Lebanon’s parliament have already rejected disarmament efforts, and many Lebanese view the group as a protector against Israeli aggression.

In the meantime, Lebanon’s civilian population bears the brunt of the violence. Families who have suffered loss, such as those affected by Thursday’s airstrikes, face the trauma of ongoing instability, with many struggling to comprehend how a ceasefire meant to bring peace is unraveling into further bloodshed.


As the situation unfolds, both Israel and Lebanon face difficult choices. The Israeli government has made clear its intention to continue striking Hezbollah targets, while Hezbollah remains firm in its resistance to Israeli incursions into Lebanese territory. Despite the growing death toll and increasing international calls for restraint, the region remains on the brink of further violence.

For now, the Lebanese people, already suffering from years of political and economic turmoil, must endure the ripple effects of an unresolved conflict that continues to claim innocent lives.

Trump pardons Binance founder Changpeng Zhao, ending “War on Crypto”

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WASHINGTON (BN24) — President Donald Trump granted a full pardon Thursday to Changpeng Zhao, the billionaire founder of Binance, the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchange, marking a decisive end to what his administration described as the “war on crypto.”

In a statement, the White House said, “President Trump exercised his constitutional authority by issuing a pardon for Mr. Zhao, who was prosecuted by the Biden administration in their war on cryptocurrency. The war on crypto is over.”

Zhao, widely known by his initials CZ, pleaded guilty in 2023 to failing to maintain an adequate anti-money laundering program at Binance. The company agreed to pay $4.3 billion in fines as part of the settlement with U.S. authorities, and Zhao resigned as CEO. He was sentenced to four months in prison.

The pardon represents a sweeping victory for Zhao and Binance, following months of speculation and intense lobbying from industry figures. It also signals a major policy shift under President Trump, who has pushed to loosen regulations on digital currencies as his family builds its own multibillion-dollar crypto venture, World Liberty Financial.

Binance welcomed the announcement, calling it “incredible news.” A company spokesperson said, “We thank President Trump for his leadership and for his commitment to make the U.S. the crypto capital of the world.”

Speaking to reporters Thursday afternoon, President Trump defended the decision and dismissed Zhao’s legal troubles as politically motivated. “Are you talking about the crypto person? A lot of people say that he wasn’t guilty of anything,” Trump said. “They say what he did was not even a crime. It wasn’t a crime. He was persecuted by the Biden administration, and so I gave him a pardon at the request of a lot of very good people.”

Reports earlier this year suggested that representatives of the Trump family’s crypto enterprise had held discussions with Binance about investing in its U.S. arm, though Zhao publicly denied any connection between the talks and his pardon. “Fact: I have had no discussions of a Binance US deal with … well, anyone,” Zhao wrote on X in March. “No felon would mind a pardon.”

Binance has nonetheless been linked to the growth of World Liberty Financial, which recently launched its own digital currency. In one major transaction this year, Binance accepted a $2 billion payment from an Emirati investment fund, opting to process the funds using World Liberty Financial’s cryptocurrency—a deal that proved both lucrative and legitimizing for the Trump-backed venture.

The pardon underscores Trump’s deepening ties to the cryptocurrency world and cements his administration’s pivot toward making the United States a global hub for digital assets.

Lionel Messi extends Inter Miami contract through 2028 season, commits to new stadium and MLS future

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MIAMI (BN24) — Lionel Messi has signed a contract extension to extend his stay at Inter Miami through the end of the 2028 MLS season, the team announced Thursday, securing the services of the world’s most decorated player for three additional years.

Messi, thirty-eight, initially joined Miami in July 2023 as a Designated Player on a two-and-a-half-year contract, breaking league precedent and team records with his deal. The club announced the new deal with a video of Messi signing the contract on what will become the field of Miami’s long-awaited new stadium, Miami Freedom Park.

“It makes me really happy to stay here and to continue with this project that, besides being a dream, has become a beautiful reality — playing in this stadium, at Miami Freedom Park,” Messi said in a statement. “Since I arrived in Miami, I’ve been very happy, so I’m truly glad to keep going here. We’re all really excited about the moment when we can finally play at Miami Freedom Park. We can’t wait for it to be finished — to experience it from the inside, in our new home, and for the fans to enjoy it as well. It’s going to be something very special to play at home in such a spectacular stadium.”

Club co-owner Jorge Mas previously expressed his desire to see Messi inaugurate Miami Freedom Park in 2026, when the team makes the move from its current venue in Fort Lauderdale to the new stadium in Miami. Inter Miami will play the final matches of the 2025 campaign at Chase Stadium before kicking off the 2026 season at Miami Freedom Park.

“We promised our fans that we would dream big to build an iconic club,” Mas said. “A club that represents the passion, hard work and dedication of all those that came before us to create a Miami built on dreams. Leo signing through 2028 is an ode to our amazing city. We very much look forward to writing new chapters at our stadium at Miami Freedom Park. Together we will continue building and dreaming.”

Since his MLS debut, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner has continued to set new standards on and off the pitch by leading Miami to trophies and attendance records across the country.

“Our vision was to bring the best players to Inter Miami and to this city, and that’s exactly what we have done,” said Inter Miami co-owner David Beckham. “We brought the best player to have ever played the game to our city. That shows our commitment to Miami, but it also shows Leo’s commitment to the city, to the Club, and to the game. He’s still as committed as he’s ever been and he still wants to win. As owners, to have a player that loves the game as much as he does, and who has done as much for the game in this country and to inspire the next generation of young talent as he has, we feel very lucky.”

The Argentina captain and World Cup winner first led the team to the inaugural 2023 Leagues Cup trophy before going on to inspire Miami to the 2024 Supporters’ Shield and league record for most points in a single season.

Individually, Messi has won the 2024 MLS MVP award and most recently the 2025 Golden Boot after recording twenty-nine goals in just twenty-eight games. Messi also has been nominated for the 2025 MLS MVP award and is favorite to become the first player to clinch the award on two consecutive occasions.

The club has seen a massive rise in global popularity with Messi on the roster. His pink number ten jersey has been MLS’ highest seller since he joined the league, and he has added to his massive off-field business empire since coming to the United States, even starring in a Super Bowl ad last year.

Inter Miami’s valuation has more than doubled since Messi’s arrival, climbing to a reported one point one nine billion dollars as of January 2025. The league has prospered as well, with ticketing revenue reaching an all-time high in 2025. Five clubs have broken their attendance records in matches featuring Messi and Miami.

“When Lionel Messi made MLS his league of choice, it marked a turning point — not just for Inter Miami, but for our entire sport in North America,” MLS commissioner Don Garber said. “Since then, we’ve witnessed something truly historic: the greatest player of all time bringing global attention to our league. We’re thrilled that Leo has chosen to stay and continue his career with Inter Miami.”

Messi will continue to play at Inter Miami without longtime teammates Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets, who previously announced their retirement from football at the end of the 2025 MLS season. Busquets and Alba will compete with Inter Miami in the MLS playoffs with the hopes of clinching one final trophy as players.

Luis Suárez may also play his final games with the club, as his contract expires at the end of the 2025 campaign. Though Suárez has yet to announce an extension with the club, Mas previously insisted the door remains open for him at Inter Miami should the Uruguayan choose to stay for another season.

The contract extension represents a major commitment by both Messi and Inter Miami to continue building one of MLS’ most successful and high-profile franchises. Messi will be forty-one years old when the contract expires at the end of the 2028 season, having potentially spent five and a half years in Major League Soccer.

The timing of the announcement, coming during the playoffs, underscores the club’s confidence in its long-term trajectory and Messi’s continued ability to perform at an elite level despite his age. His performance in the 2025 regular season, culminating in the Golden Boot award, demonstrated that he remains one of the most dominant players in MLS.

The new stadium at Miami Freedom Park has been a long-anticipated project for the club and is expected to significantly enhance the matchday experience for fans. The facility will provide a permanent home for Inter Miami after years of playing at temporary venues in Fort Lauderdale.

Inter Miami and Messi will now prepare for the first game of the Round 1 playoff series against Nashville SC on Friday at Chase Stadium as the club attempts to clinch the 2025 MLS Cup. The team enters the playoffs as one of the favorites after a dominant regular season performance led by Messi’s goalscoring prowess.

The extension solidifies MLS’ position as a destination for elite global talent and validates the league’s strategy of attracting marquee players who can elevate the sport’s profile in North America. Messi’s impact extends beyond the field, driving merchandise sales, television ratings and international interest in Major League Soccer.

For Inter Miami, retaining Messi through 2028 provides stability and star power as the franchise transitions to its new stadium and continues to build a competitive roster around its Argentine superstar.

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