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Miami Bus Shooting Leaves 2 Dead as Driver Opens Fire 

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A tragic shooting incident unfolded early Sunday morning in Miami, Florida, when a Miami-Dade County Transit bus driver opened fire on two passengers, killing both. The incident occurred outside a shopping plaza at the corner of Miami Gardens Drive and Northwest Seventh Avenue. 

According to authorities, the shooting was triggered by a heated argument between the bus driver and passengers. During the altercation, the driver drew a firearm and shot two male passengers. Both victims were airlifted to HCA Florida Aventura Hospital in critical condition but later succumbed to their injuries. 

Law enforcement responded to a 911 call around 3 a.m. and quickly cordoned off the entire shopping plaza near the parked bus. It remains unclear what sparked the argument that escalated into deadly violence. 

Miami Gardens police confirmed that the bus driver is in custody as the investigation continues. Authorities have not disclosed whether the driver will face criminal charges. It is also unknown if any of the passengers were armed at the time of the incident. 

A spokesperson for Miami-Dade’s Department of Transportation and Public Works clarified that transit operators are prohibited from carrying firearms. “Transit operators are not allowed to be armed,” the spokesperson stated. “This morning’s incident aboard a Metrobus remains under investigation, and the Department of Transportation and Public Works is fully cooperating with law enforcement.” 

The incident has left the community shaken, with many expressing grief and frustration over the tragic loss of life. Miami-Dade County Commissioner Eileen Higgins, chair of the county’s Transportation Committee, shared her sorrow over the shooting. 

“Another example of why people shouldn’t have guns,” Higgins told the Miami Herald. “Two people would still be alive today if there had been a shouting match rather than a shooting match. I’m heartbroken.” 

A witness who was leaving a nearby store at the time of the shooting described hearing six gunshots. 

“I don’t know who was hit, I don’t know why they were hit, but I do not like the violence that’s going on in my neighborhood,” the witness told NBC 6 South Florida. “This is a beautiful neighborhood.” 

Miami Gardens police described the investigation as “fluid,” with more details expected to emerge. Authorities are working to determine what led to the fatal confrontation and whether any policy violations occurred. The tragic incident has reignited conversations about gun violence and public safety in Miami.

UK Prepared to Retaliate Against US Car Tariffs Amid Trade Dispute 

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The UK government has warned it will not hesitate to retaliate if the United States imposes tariffs on car imports, according to sources from Downing Street. The warning comes as last-minute negotiations continue ahead of a planned 25% tax on car imports and potential additional tariffs on other goods set to take effect on April 2. 

While Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is committed to avoiding a trade war, the UK is pushing for an exemption by highlighting its balanced trading relationship with the US. Government sources indicate negotiations for an exemption would continue beyond the April 2 deadline, with one official stating, “We won’t stop trying.” 

Should US tariffs proceed, the UK’s response remains uncertain, though options include targeted duties on American sectors heavily reliant on British products. Specific measures could involve imposing tariffs on iconic American products such as Harley-Davidson motorcycles. One expert told the BBC that the “nuclear option” would be targeting financial services—a move deemed unlikely. 

Despite these threats, UK ministers remain focused on diplomacy. Prime Minister Starmer emphasized that the government would be “pragmatic and clear-eyed” in seeking a resolution through intense negotiations rather than escalating tensions. 

The independent Office for Budget Responsibility has warned that a reciprocal trade war could cost the UK billions in economic growth, threatening the government’s fiscal targets. Dame Meg Hillier, chair of the Commons Treasury Select Committee, cautioned that the government’s commitment to free trade will face a stern test in the coming weeks. 

US President Donald Trump has defended the tariffs, claiming the 25% levy would stimulate “tremendous growth” in the US auto industry by protecting American jobs. However, critics argue the move could disrupt domestic car production, raise consumer prices, and strain relations with key allies. 

The planned tariffs have drawn sharp criticism from international leaders. German Economy Minister Robert Habeck called for a firm EU response, while French President Emmanuel Macron dismissed the tariffs as a “waste of time,” urging Trump to reconsider. 

The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) expressed disappointment, highlighting the importance of the US market, the second-largest destination for UK car exports valued at £7.6 billion annually. The US imported around eight million cars last year—about $240 billion in trade—primarily from Mexico, South Korea, Japan, Canada, and Germany. 

As negotiations continue, the UK remains determined to secure an exemption while preparing for potential retaliatory measures if tariffs are imposed.

bbc.com

Hamas Releases Hostage Video Amid Renewed Gaza Bombardment 

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Hamas has released a disturbing video showing hostage Elkana Bohbot, 36, pleading for his release as the militant group warns that “time is running out.” Bohbot, who has been held captive for 540 days, emotionally appeals to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, expressing the deep psychological toll of his captivity. 

“I am the one who asked to do these videos. Hamas did not tell me to make these videos. This is not psychological warfare,” Bohbot says in the clip. “The real psychological warfare is what is going on inside my head, every morning when I wake up without my son and my wife… it’s making me crazy!” 

The propaganda video, titled “Time is Running Out,” marks the second footage of Bohbot released by Hamas in five days, following the collapse of a ceasefire reached in January. The truce was disrupted after Israel resumed airstrikes in Gaza, leading to ongoing negotiations to restore peace. 

Bohbot was abducted from the Nova music festival on October 7, 2023, when Hamas launched a deadly cross-border raid, killing 1,200 Israelis. In a previous video, Hamas also featured hostage Yosef-Haim Ohana. An estimated 59 hostages remain in Gaza, while many have been exchanged in prisoner swaps or died in captivity. 

The resurgence of violence has resulted in devastating losses. According to Gaza’s Health Ministry, Israeli strikes have killed over 50,000 Palestinians since the conflict reignited. Israel, however, claims around 20,000 militants have been neutralized, though evidence has not been provided. 

Hamas is pushing for a reinstatement of the ceasefire, but Israel has intensified military operations. Tensions have escalated further with protests from Palestinian civilians chanting “Hamas out!” and “Hamas are terrorists,” calling for an end to violence. 

Extraordinary footage shows demonstrators holding banners reading “We want to live in peace” and “Stop the War.” The mass protests come amid a separate wave of anti-government demonstrations in Israel, with Prime Minister Netanyahu accusing opposition forces of fueling “anarchy.” 

As negotiations stall and hostilities persist, the humanitarian crisis deepens, displacing nearly 90% of Gaza’s population and reducing vast areas to rubble. The international community continues to call for an immediate ceasefire and humanitarian aid access.

Trump Unworried About Car Price Hikes from Tariffs on Foreign-Made Autos

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U.S. President Donald Trump stated on Saturday that he is unfazed by potential car price hikes resulting from new tariffs on foreign-made automobiles, telling NBC News he “couldn’t care less” if manufacturers raise prices. 

Republican presidential nominee and former U.S. President Donald Trump speaks as he participates in a town hall presented by Spanish-language network Univision, in Doral, Florida, U.S., October 16, 2024. REUTERS/Marco Bello

In an interview with NBC News, Trump dismissed concerns about the impact of permanent tariffs on imported cars, expressing confidence that the move would benefit American car manufacturers. “I hope they raise their prices, because if they do, people are gonna buy American-made cars,” Trump said, highlighting the expected boost to U.S.-based factories. 

The White House is set to impose new tariffs on a range of consumer goods starting April 2. The decision has sparked criticism from international leaders and raised concerns about increased costs for American consumers. 

Trump emphasized that the tariffs are part of his administration’s broader push to promote American manufacturing and reduce the U.S. trade deficit. He stated he would only consider negotiating on the tariffs “if people are willing to give us something of great value.” 

The tariffs align with Trump’s longstanding objective of revitalizing American manufacturing and reshaping the country’s trade relationships. His administration’s trade policies have been a key focus, often leading to tensions with major trading partners. 

Despite the backlash, Trump remains resolute in his approach, prioritizing American jobs and industry over concerns about potential price increases. The tariffs are expected to encourage consumers to buy American-made vehicles, reinforcing Trump’s commitment to boosting domestic manufacturing.

6 Killed in Deadly Clash Between Nigerian Security Forces and Pro-Palestinian Islamic Movement of Nigeria 

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In a deadly confrontation on Friday in Nigeria’s capital, Abuja, six people were killed during a clash between Nigerian security forces and members of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN), a Shiite Muslim group. According to police spokesperson Josephine Adeh, one security officer and five IMN members died in the violence. 

The incident occurred during a march in solidarity with Palestinians on International Quds Day, observed on the last Friday of Ramadan to show support for Palestinians worldwide. The IMN has a history of staging demonstrations, often resulting in violent confrontations. In 2015, a military crackdown led to the arrest of the group’s leader, Ibraheem El-Zakzaky, igniting intense protests. Despite his release, the group continues to hold nationwide demonstrations. 

Sidi Munir Sokoto, a spokesperson for the IMN, stated that the group’s procession was peaceful, dismissing claims that members provoked the military. “This incident is the latest in a series of events where security forces have abused their power by targeting innocent civilians exercising their legal rights,” Sokoto said. 

However, Nigerian police reported that IMN members were armed with firearms, short swords, and catapults. Security forces were responding to a distress call when they allegedly came under “intense gunfire,” resulting in the death of one officer and serious injuries to three others. 

Nineteen people were arrested in connection with the clash, and police confirmed that investigations are underway to bring all perpetrators to justice. 

Amnesty International condemned the security forces’ response, accusing them of using lethal tactics against the IMN. “Firearms should never be used as a tactical tool for managing demonstrations. Nigerian authorities are obligated under international law to conduct a full, independent investigation into the deaths,” the rights group asserted. 

The IMN, a Shiite sect inspired by Iran’s Islamic Revolution, aims to establish an Islamic state in Nigeria through peaceful means. The group represents around 5% of Nigeria’s 100 million Muslims, most of whom are Sunni. However, the Nigerian government banned the IMN in 2019 following violent protests and allegations of extremist ties. 

Despite the ban, the IMN continues to organize demonstrations, often met with a heavy-handed response from security forces. The latest clash underscores the group’s ongoing conflict with Nigerian authorities, raising concerns about human rights abuses and the government’s handling of dissent.

Latest U.S. Airstrikes in Yemen Kill At Least One as Conflict Escalates 

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The United States launched a series of airstrikes in Yemen overnight into Saturday, reportedly killing at least one person, as American forces continue a renewed campaign targeting Houthi rebel positions. The U.S. military previously acknowledged striking a significant military site in Sanaa controlled by the Iranian-backed Houthis. 

The full extent of the damage and casualties remains unclear. The overnight strikes followed intense air raids on Friday, marking an escalation in the military campaign that began on March 15. 

An analysis by the Associated Press indicates that the new American operation under President Donald Trump is broader than previous actions under former President Joe Biden. The strikes now target ranking Houthi personnel and drop bombs in urban areas, moving beyond launch sites. 

Meanwhile, satellite images analyzed by the AP reveal a mysterious airstrip on Mayun Island in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. The airstrip, strategically positioned in a key maritime chokepoint, now appears capable of supporting flights and B-2 bombers, enabling rapid strikes in the region. 

The airstrikes targeted multiple locations under Houthi control, including the capital, Sanaa, and the governorates of al-Jawf and Saada. The Houthi-run SABA news agency reported that the strikes in Saada killed one person, identified as a civilian, and wounded four others. Analysts suggest the rebels may be underreporting casualties, given the strikes’ focus on military and intelligence sites. 

The U.S. Central Command confirmed one of Friday’s airstrikes by releasing black-and-white footage showing a bomb hitting a Houthi military command headquarters in Sanaa. The Houthis have not acknowledged the attack. 

In a separate statement, the Houthi-controlled Telecommunications and Information Technology Ministry claimed that U.S. strikes destroyed “broadcasting stations, communication towers, and messaging networks” in Amran and Saada governorates. Intense airstrikes were reported around Jebel Aswad in Amran. 

The latest U.S. campaign began after the Houthis threatened to target “Israeli” ships over Israel’s blockade of Gaza. The Houthis’ broad definition of Israeli vessels risks attacks on various commercial ships. 

The Houthi rebels previously targeted over 100 merchant vessels, sinking two and killing four sailors. Attacks on American warships were also attempted but unsuccessful. 

The rebels have also threatened U.S. allies Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, though both nations have stayed out of the American airstrike campaign. 

Satellite photos from Saturday show at least four B-2 stealth bombers deployed to Diego Garcia in the Indian Ocean. The bombers, which can carry nuclear weapons, are positioned out of Houthi range. 

The USS Harry S. Truman aircraft carrier has conducted strikes from the Red Sea, while the USS Carl Vinson is expected to join from Asia. France’s sole aircraft carrier, the Charles de Gaulle, is currently in Djibouti, near the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, though it is not involved in the U.S. campaign. 

Satellite images from Planet Labs PBC show that an airstrip on Mayun Island in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait is now operational, with markings “09” and “27” indicating its east and west ends. 

While the Saudi-led coalition previously acknowledged “equipment” on Mayun, traffic to the island links the construction to the UAE, which supports Yemen’s Southern Transitional Council. 

The airstrip’s completion follows a similar project on Abd al-Kuri Island, near the Gulf of Aden, enhancing the UAE’s strategic military presence in the region. 

The ongoing airstrikes mark a significant escalation in U.S. military involvement in Yemen’s complex conflict, raising concerns about regional stability and the humanitarian toll on the war-torn nation.

Turkey Arrests Swedish Journalist Over Alleged PKK Links and Insulting the President

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Turkish authorities announced Sunday that they have arrested Joakim Medin, a Swedish journalist from the daily Dagens ETC, on charges of “membership in a terrorist organization” and “insulting the president.” Medin was detained upon arrival at Istanbul Airport on Thursday and formally arrested the following day. 

According to a statement from the Counter Disinformation Center, a division of the Turkish Presidency’s Communications Department, Medin’s arrest was “not over his journalism activities.” The Center accused Medin of participating in a January 11, 2023, rally in Stockholm organized by supporters of the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK), a militant group designated as a terrorist organization by Turkey and its Western allies. The rally included an effigy of Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. 

The PKK, which has waged a 40-year insurgency against Turkey that has claimed tens of thousands of lives, declared a ceasefire in early March following a call from its imprisoned leader Abdullah Ocalan. A peace initiative between the PKK and the Turkish state was initiated in October. 

The Ankara Public Prosecutors Office launched an investigation into the Stockholm rally two days after it occurred, identifying 15 suspects, including Medin. The Counter Disinformation Center also alleged that Medin facilitated communication between the PKK and the press. 

Medin’s arrest is part of a wider crackdown on media workers covering Turkey’s largest protests in more than a decade. Over a dozen journalists have been detained in recent days. 

The incident has drawn criticism from press freedom advocates who argue that Turkey’s actions threaten the right to free expression and press coverage.

University of Minnesota Graduate Student Detained by ICE, Sparking Concerns

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A University of Minnesota graduate student was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents at an off-campus residence on Thursday, according to a statement from the university. The student’s identity, nationality, visa type, and status were not disclosed, and the university emphasized that it had no prior knowledge of the detention. 

The statement, signed by President Rebecca Cunningham, Vice President for Student Affairs Calvin Phillips, and Vice President for Equity and Diversity Mercedes Ramírez Fernández, described the incident as “deeply concerning.” The university also clarified that its public safety departments, including the University of Minnesota Police Department (UMPD), do not enforce federal immigration laws or inquire about an individual’s immigration status. 

Minnesota Governor Tim Walz announced on social media that he was in contact with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to obtain more information. “The University of Minnesota is an international destination for education and research. We have many students here on visas, and we need answers,” Walz stated. 

Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey also condemned the incident, calling the detention “deeply troubling.” He stressed that educational institutions should be safe spaces for students to learn without fear. 

This incident comes amid a wave of recent ICE arrests targeting international students in the United States. 

Earlier this month, Mahmoud Khalil, a graduate student at Columbia University and a legal permanent resident, was detained by ICE agents on accusations of supporting Hamas, a designated terrorist organization. Khalil’s attorney denied the allegations, emphasizing that there was no evidence to support the claim. Khalil remains in federal custody in Louisiana, where a court ruling prevents his deportation while legal challenges are resolved. 

Additionally, Rumeysa Ozturk, a Turkish graduate student at Tufts University, was arrested by ICE agents on Tuesday while en route to meet friends for iftar during Ramadan. A video of the arrest was shared widely, and a court order has temporarily blocked her deportation. 

Other international students detained this week include Alireza Doroudi, an Iranian doctoral student at the University of Alabama, and Kseniia Petrova, a Russian medical researcher at Harvard University. 

The University of Minnesota incident underscores growing concerns about immigration enforcement on college campuses and the impact on international students who come to the U.S. for education and research.

Newcastle United Fans Celebrate Historic Carabao Cup Victory with Open-Top Bus Parade

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Hundreds of thousands of jubilant Newcastle United fans lined the streets of Newcastle to celebrate the club’s historic Carabao Cup victory over Liverpool, marking the club’s first domestic trophy win in 70 years. The city was transformed into a sea of black and white as fans cheered on an open-top bus parade. 

An estimated 150,000 fans gathered at Town Moor for a ticketed event where players lifted the trophy, recreating their iconic celebration from Wembley Stadium on March 16. 

For manager Eddie Howe, the celebration was a deeply emotional moment. A massive banner was unfurled outside St James’ Park in his honor. Goalscorer Dan Burn, a lifelong Newcastle fan, expressed his disbelief: “I don’t know what I was expecting, but it is everything I have ever dreamed of. It is something I will never forget.” 

Newcastle-born TV personalities Ant and Dec joined the celebrations, sharing their excitement on social media. Ant McPartlin shouted, “Let’s get ready to rumble!” while Declan Donnelly expressed disbelief at sneaking onto the parade bus. The pair led chants of “ole, ole, ole, ole” while overlooking fans at St James’ Park. 

As the bus neared Town Moor, the area was engulfed in white smoke while fans sang a unique rendition of “Hey Jude,” replacing the name with “Geordies.” 

The celebration culminated in a stunning drone show sponsored by Sela, featuring illuminated images of the Newcastle United jersey and the phrase “Making History.” The display provided a fitting end to a memorable day for Newcastle United fans. 

This victory marks a new chapter for Newcastle United as fans eagerly anticipate further success under Eddie Howe’s leadership.

Myanmar Earthquake Death Toll Surpasses 1,600 as Desperate Search for Survivors Continues

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The devastating earthquake in Myanmar has claimed more than 1,600 lives, with residents in affected areas resorting to digging through rubble with their bare hands to rescue loved ones, the BBC reports. 

A lack of equipment, damaged communication networks, and impassable roads and bridges have severely hindered search and rescue efforts. 

The earthquake struck Mandalay, Myanmar’s second-largest city, flattening much of it. Applause broke out when rescuers freed a woman from a collapsed 12-story apartment building after 30 hours, but the Red Cross warns over 90 people may still be trapped. 

In a nearby township, rescuers found the bodies of 12 preschool children and a teacher beneath a kindergarten building. 

Road damage between Yangon, Nay Pyi Taw, and Mandalay has caused severe disruptions, according to the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA). 

Medical supplies, including trauma kits, blood bags, anesthetics, essential medicines, and tents, are in short supply, OCHA reports. 

Footage shared online shows two men clearing rubble to rescue a trapped young woman, while survivors’ cries for help echo from beneath the debris. Rescuers say they can only help when they hear survivors. 

Earlier on Saturday, a rescue team in Mandalay’s Kyaukse district pulled out several people from a collapsed school. Six were already dead—five women and one man—when found. Victims included students, teachers, and staff. 

Limited rescue equipment is slowing down efforts, with rescuers struggling to reach those trapped. 

Poor communication and power outages worsen the situation. Mandalay Airport is out of service due to damaged runways. 

Residents report chaos and lack of coordination in rescue efforts, with overwhelmed hospitals unable to manage the casualties. 

The junta reports over 1,500 damaged buildings in Mandalay, and Sagaing’s bridges are severely damaged, blocking rescue access. 

Despite a rare appeal for international aid, the military junta continues air and drone strikes on ethnic armies and rebel groups. 

A recent airstrike in Naungcho, northern Shan state, killed seven people, while pro-democracy groups report bombings in Sagaing and near the Thai border. 

Tom Andrews, the UN’s special rapporteur on human rights in Myanmar, called on the junta to cease military operations amid the disaster. 

“The problem is ongoing military strikes by the junta. This is completely outrageous and unacceptable,” Andrews told the BBC.

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