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2 Swedish Teens Detained Over Blasts Near Israeli Embassy in Copenhagen

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2 Swedish Teens Detained Over Blasts Near Israeli Embassy in Copenhagen

Two Swedish teenagers were ordered held in pre-trial detention Thursday in connection with two predawn explosions near the Israeli Embassy in Copenhagen a day earlier.

The suspects, aged 16 and 19, face preliminary charges of possessing illegal weapons and carrying five hand grenades. Prosecutors said they are investigating “whether the motive could be a terror attack.”

“This was pretty close to the Israeli Embassy,” prosecutor Søren Harbo said before the court hearing. The blasts damaged a roof terrace of a nearby house but did not harm the embassy itself.

The explosions occurred early Wednesday in a neighborhood housing several foreign diplomatic missions. No injuries were reported, though a nearby Jewish school was closed following the incident.

Danish broadcaster DR reported that the teenagers are suspected of acting “in association and together with prior agreement with one or more perpetrators.” Both denied the charges, according to local media.

The suspects were arrested Wednesday on a train at Copenhagen’s central station. A third suspect, aged 19, initially detained near the embassy, has been released.

In Sweden, Fredrik Hallström of the domestic security agency SAPO said, “The latest incident at the Israeli embassy is not classified as a terrorist crime at the moment.” However, Johan Olsson from the Swedish police’s National Operations Department described the charges as “aggravated weapons offenses, causing danger or other serious illegal threats and damage.”

This incident follows a separate attack late Tuesday when shots were fired at the Israeli Embassy in Stockholm, with no injuries reported and no arrests made.

The events have heightened security concerns around Israeli diplomatic missions in Scandinavia, prompting increased vigilance from local authorities.

apnews.com

At Least 50 Dead as Boat Capsizes in Eastern Congo Lake

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At Least 50 Dead as Boat Capsizes in Eastern Congo Lake

A boat carrying scores of passengers capsized on Lake Kivu in eastern Congo on Thursday, killing at least 50 people, according to eyewitness accounts.

The vessel, reportedly overloaded, sank while attempting to dock just meters from the port of Kituku, witnesses told The Associated Press. They reported seeing rescue services recover at least 50 bodies from the water.

“The boat was clearly overcrowded,” said Jean-Paul Munyandamutsa, a local fisherman who witnessed the accident. “It started to tilt dangerously as it approached the dock.”

Authorities have not yet confirmed the exact number of passengers on board or the final death toll. Witnesses said about 10 people survived and were taken to a local hospital for treatment.

This incident marks the latest in a series of deadly boat accidents in the Democratic Republic of Congo, where overcrowding is often cited as a primary cause. In a similar tragedy this summer, an overloaded boat sank near the capital, Kinshasa, resulting in 80 fatalities.

Congo’s vast waterways serve as crucial transportation routes in a country with limited road infrastructure. However, lax safety standards and overloading continue to pose significant risks to passengers.

“These tragedies are sadly becoming all too common,” said Marie Ndjeka, a spokesperson for a local maritime safety advocacy group. “We urgently need stricter enforcement of passenger limits and improved safety measures.”

Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the accident. As rescue efforts continue, local officials are calling for increased vigilance and adherence to maritime safety regulations to prevent future disasters.

Russia Launches Major Drone Attack on Ukraine, Damaging Energy Infrastructure

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Russia Launches Major Drone Attack on Ukraine, Damaging Energy Infrastructure

Russian forces conducted a massive drone assault on 15 Ukrainian regions overnight, causing significant damage to energy infrastructure and residential buildings, Ukrainian authorities reported Thursday.

The Ukrainian air force said it intercepted 78 out of 105 Russian drones, with 23 more likely impacted by electronic jamming. The attack damaged power lines and substation equipment in the Kyiv, Odesa, and Ivano-Frankivsk regions, according to Ukraine’s energy ministry.

“This was one of the largest drone attacks we’ve seen in recent months,” said a senior Ukrainian defense official, speaking on condition of anonymity due to security concerns.

In Odesa, regional governor Oleh Kiper reported that power had been restored to over 3,000 consumers, though 2,000 remained without electricity. The assault also caused temporary disruptions to railway services in the southern region.

Kyiv authorities reported downing about 15 drones over the capital and its surroundings during a five-hour air alert. Minor property damage was reported in the central regions of Poltava, Cherkasy, and Kirovohrad.

Russia’s defense ministry claimed its forces had targeted Ukrainian energy facilities powering military operations, as reported by state news agency TASS. Moscow has consistently denied targeting civilians, despite regular strikes on non-military areas behind the front lines.

A view shows semi-trucks destroyed during a Russian drone strike near Ukraine-Romania border, amid Russia’s attack on Ukraine, in Odesa region, Ukraine October 2, 2024. REUTERS/Nina Liashonok

The drone attacks come as Russian forces continue to make steady progress on the eastern front, more than two and a half years into the full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The intensifying strikes, particularly as winter approaches, have prompted Kyiv to renew calls for its Western allies to lift restrictions on long-range weapons use.

In a separate development, the Ukrainian military announced it had used U.S.-provided ATACMS ballistic missiles to strike a Russian radar station, aiming to reduce Moscow’s ability to detect and intercept ballistic targets. The military did not disclose the location or timing of the strike on the ‘Nebo-M’ radar station.

Second Suicide in 2 Days on Indian Mumbai’s Atal Setu Bridge as Mumbai Businessman Jumps to Death

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Second Suicide in 2 Days on Indian Mumbai’s Atal Setu Bridge as Mumbai Businessman Jumps to Death

A 52-year-old businessman jumped to his death from the Atal Setu bridge in Mumbai early Wednesday, marking the second apparent suicide on the structure in two days, police reported.

Philip Hitesh Shah, a resident of Matunga in central Mumbai, drove his sedan onto the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link (MTHL), part of which is known as Atal Setu, parked it, and leaped into the sea below, according to a police official who spoke on condition of anonymity because they weren’t authorized to speak to the media.

“Shah had been depressed for the past few months, and the family suspects this led to his decision to end his life,” the official said.

The incident occurred just two days after a deputy manager of a nationalized bank jumped from the same bridge. His body was recovered from the Navi Mumbai seashore on Tuesday.

CCTV control room staff on the bridge alerted authorities after noticing Shah’s parked car. A rescue team was immediately dispatched to the location.

The Atal Setu, which opened to the public in January, is India’s longest sea bridge, connecting Mumbai to Navi Mumbai. These incidents have raised concerns about safety measures on the newly inaugurated structure.

Local authorities are reviewing security protocols on the bridge in light of these events. Mental health experts emphasize the importance of increased awareness and support systems to prevent such tragedies.

hindustimes.com

Israel Says Hamas Government Head in Gaza Killed in Airstrike

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Israel Says Hamas Government Head in Gaza Killed in Airstrike

The Israeli military announced Thursday it had killed Rawhi Mushtaha, the head of the Hamas government in Gaza, along with two senior security officials in an airstrike conducted three months ago.

According to an Israeli military statement, the strike targeted an underground compound in northern Gaza that served as a command and control center. Mushtaha and commanders Sameh al-Siraj and Sami Oudeh were reportedly taking refuge there when the strike hit.

“Mushtaha was one of Hamas’ most senior operatives and had a direct impact on decisions relating to Hamas’ force deployment,” the military said in a statement.

The Israeli military described Mushtaha as a close associate of Yahya Sinwar, the top Hamas leader believed to have helped mastermind the October 7 attack on Israel that sparked the ongoing conflict. Sinwar is thought to be alive and in hiding within Gaza.

Sameh al-Siraj reportedly held the security portfolio for Hamas’s political bureau.

The announcement comes amid ongoing military operations in Gaza, which have intensified since Hamas’s October attack on Israel. The Israeli military has been targeting Hamas leadership and infrastructure in an effort to dismantle the organization’s operational capabilities.

The ongoing conflict has resulted in significant casualties on both sides and has drawn international concern over the humanitarian situation in Gaza.

Dead Grandparents Found Embracing After Deadly Tree Fall in Hurricane Helene

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Dead Grandparents Found Embracing After Deadly Tree Fall in Hurricane Helene

An elderly couple was found hugging each other in death after a massive tree crashed through their bedroom during Hurricane Helene, their grandson reported Thursday.

Jerry Savage, 78, and his wife Marcia, 74, were among more than 150 people confirmed dead in what has become one of the deadliest storms in U.S. history. The couple’s death in Beech Island, South Carolina, underscores the devastating impact of fallen trees during severe weather events.

John Savage, 22, the couple’s grandson, described the harrowing moments before the tragedy. “We heard one snap and I remember going back there and checking on them,” he said. “They were both fine, the dog was fine.”

Shortly after, a thunderous “boom” signaled the fall of one of the property’s largest trees onto the grandparents’ bedroom.

“When they pulled them out of there, my grandpa apparently heard the tree snap beforehand and rolled over to try and protect my grandmother,” John Savage said, adding that the family finds solace in believing it was “God’s plan to take them together.”

The Savages were married for over 50 years. Jerry, a retired electrician and carpenter, and Marcia, a former bank teller, were remembered by family and friends as hardworking, kind, and devoted to their church.

Tammy Estep, 54, the couple’s daughter, described her father as a “doer” and her mother as an avid gospel singer known for her cooking, especially her banana pudding.

Hurricane Helene has left a trail of destruction across multiple states, causing flooding, mudslides, and widespread power outages. The storm’s death toll includes two South Carolina firefighters killed by a falling tree while on duty.

As communities grapple with the aftermath, the Savage family’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the storm’s human cost. A GoFundMe page has been set up to cover funeral expenses for the couple, who are survived by two children, four grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren.

“They loved each other to their dying day,” John Savage said, encapsulating the bittersweet nature of his grandparents’ final moments together.

Rare Israeli Strike in Central Beirut Kills 7 as Tensions Escalate

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Rare Israeli Strike in Central Beirut Kills 7 as Tensions Escalate

An Israeli airstrike on an apartment in central Beirut killed seven Hezbollah-affiliated civilian first responders late Wednesday, marking a rare attack in the heart of Lebanon’s capital as tensions continue to escalate in the region.

The strike, which occurred without warning, hit an area near the United Nations headquarters, the prime minister’s office, and parliament. Hezbollah’s civil defense unit confirmed the deaths of seven of its members.

In a separate incident, the Lebanese Red Cross reported that an Israeli strike on Thursday killed four of its paramedics and a Lebanese army soldier near the village of Taybeh in southern Lebanon. The convoy was evacuating wounded individuals when targeted, despite coordinating movements with U.N. peacekeepers.

These attacks come as Israel intensifies its operations in southern Lebanon, where it announced a limited ground incursion earlier this week. The Israeli military has ordered the evacuation of villages and towns north of the U.N.-declared buffer zone established after the 2006 war, signaling a possible expansion of its operations.

At least eight Israeli soldiers have been killed in clashes with Hezbollah in southern Lebanon, according to Israeli military sources.

The escalating violence has opened a second front in the conflict that began with Hamas’ October 7 attack from Gaza. Since mid-September, Israeli airstrikes across Lebanon have killed at least 1,276 people, according to Lebanon’s Health Ministry.

Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah and several top commanders have been killed in recent Israeli strikes. The Israeli military claims to have struck around 200 Hezbollah targets across Lebanon, including weapons storage facilities and observation posts.

The conflict has displaced hundreds of thousands on both sides of the border. Israel says it is targeting Hezbollah in response to nearly a year of rocket attacks that have displaced some 60,000 Israelis from northern communities.

Messi Clinches 46th Trophy as Inter Miami Wins Supporters’ Shield

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Messi Clinches 46th Trophy as Inter Miami Wins Supporters’ Shield

Lionel Messi added yet another piece of silverware to his unparalleled collection Wednesday night, leading Inter Miami to a 3-2 victory over the Columbus Crew and securing the Major League Soccer Supporters’ Shield. This triumph marks the 46th major trophy of Messi’s illustrious career, further extending his record as the most decorated player in men’s soccer history.

The Argentine superstar was instrumental in the win, scoring twice in the final minutes of the first half to set Inter Miami on course for victory. Messi’s first goal came in the 45th minute, showcasing his signature skill as he weaved through defenders before finding the back of the net. He followed up with a masterful free-kick just before halftime, curling the ball past the Columbus goalkeeper from 30 yards out.

“Winning this trophy with Inter Miami is special,” Messi said post-match. “Every title is important, and I’m proud to contribute to the club’s success in my first full season here.”

This Supporters’ Shield victory represents Messi’s second trophy with Inter Miami since joining the club in 2023, following their Leagues Cup triumph last year. It also secures home-field advantage for Inter Miami throughout the upcoming MLS playoffs.

Inter Miami coach Tata Martino praised Messi’s impact, saying, “Leo’s experience in winning titles is invaluable. His presence elevates the entire team, both on and off the field.”

The win improves Inter Miami’s record to an impressive 20-4-8, giving them 68 points with two matches remaining in the regular season. This puts them within reach of breaking the MLS single-season points record of 73, set by New England in 2021.

At 36 years old, Messi continues to defy expectations, boasting 17 goals in 17 MLS matches this season. His influence on Inter Miami is clear, with the team holding a 10-1-6 record in league play when he’s in the lineup.

As Inter Miami celebrates this milestone, attention now turns to the upcoming playoffs and the possibility of adding the MLS Cup to Messi’s ever-growing trophy cabinet. For now, however, this 46th major honor serves as a reminder of Messi’s enduring class and his ability to lead teams to glory, regardless of the league or continent.

apnews.com

Over 100 Missing After Boat Capsizes in Northern Nigeria

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Over 100 Missing After Boat Capsizes in Northern Nigeria

More than 100 people, primarily women and children, are missing after a wooden boat capsized Tuesday evening in the Niger River in northern Nigeria, local authorities reported Wednesday.

The vessel, carrying nearly 300 passengers returning from a religious festival, sank around 8:30 p.m. Tuesday. Officials said the boat was filled to roughly three times its intended capacity.

“The boat was not supposed to carry more than 100 persons, but there were almost 300 people on it. And that was what resulted in the breakage of the boat,” said Salihu Garba, director of relief and rehabilitation at the state emergency services.

A frantic search and rescue operation has saved 150 people so far. Ibrahim Audu Husseini, a spokesman for Niger state’s emergency services, told AFP that 16 bodies had been recovered — 14 women and two men.

Abdullahi Baba Arah, head of Niger State Emergency Management Agency, said, “The search and rescue operation is still ongoing to locate more survivors.”

This incident marks the fourth fatal boat accident in northern Nigeria since mid-2023. The region’s lack of adequate roads often leads to increased boat usage, with accidents frequently attributed to poorly maintained vessels or overcrowding.

Maritime safety experts have long called for stricter enforcement of passenger limits and improved maintenance standards for boats operating in Nigeria’s inland waterways.

“This tragedy underscores the urgent need for better regulation and safety measures,” said a local maritime safety advocate who requested anonymity due to the sensitivity of the issue.

Beyonce, Lana Del Rey, Metallica Reportedly ‘Blacklisted’ in Russia

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Beyonce, Lana Del Rey, Metallica Reportedly ‘Blacklisted’ in Russia

Global music superstars Beyonce, Lana Del Rey, and Metallica are reportedly among 79 artists included on an unofficial “blacklist” circulating in Russia’s entertainment industry, according to an investigation by the news website Vyorstka.

The investigative report, published Wednesday, cites two anonymous sources in the Russian advertising and event organizing sectors. These sources claim that a list of 79 “blacklisted” artists is being distributed, with recipients strongly advised to exclude these performers’ music from advertisements, promotional materials, and public events.

“The list appears to target a wide range of international and domestic artists,” said a Moscow-based music industry analyst who requested anonymity due to the sensitive nature of the topic. “It’s an unprecedented move that could significantly impact Russia’s cultural landscape.”

Despite the reported blacklist, Vyorstka found that one-third of the listed artists have concerts scheduled in Russia within the next six months. The news outlet also quoted a member of one blacklisted band who claimed they were still able to perform at events and festivals in the country.

Other international acts reportedly on the list include Hozier and Florence and the Machine. The blacklist also allegedly includes exiled Russian comedians and even some apolitical social media influencers.

Vyorstka’s investigation revealed that 19 of the listed artists have previously had shows canceled in Russia for political reasons. Intriguingly, the list is said to include two Russian artists who support the country’s actions in Ukraine, highlighting the complex and sometimes contradictory nature of such unofficial censorship efforts.

The Russian government has not officially commented on the existence or authenticity of the list.

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