South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol has declared emergency martial law, citing anti-state actions by the opposition Democratic Party, including attempts to impeach top prosecutors. This decree suspends political activities, allows warrantless arrests, and bans strikes and rallies. The opposition and even Yoon’s own party leaders have condemned the move as unconstitutional. Citizens in Seoul are stunned, with military vehicles and helicopters visible across the capital. Parliament has voted to block the martial law, but its enforcement remains uncertain. The declaration has sparked fears of democratic backsliding in the nation.
LEBANON-ISRAEL CEASEFIRE UNDER THREAT
Tensions flared between Israel and Hezbollah, jeopardizing the recent ceasefire brokered by the US and France. Israeli airstrikes on southern Lebanon killed 10, while Hezbollah launched mortars at Israeli positions, citing “violations” of the truce. The ceasefire agreement requires Hezbollah to withdraw from the Blue Line and Litani River, while Israeli forces must pull back from disputed zones. Both sides accuse each other of breaches, prompting international concern. Lebanese authorities have reported over 54 violations, with calls for stricter monitoring. Despite escalations, US officials assert the truce remains largely intact.
“ALL HELL TO PAY” : TRUMP WARNS HAMAS
US President-elect Donald Trump issued a strong warning to Hamas on December 2, threatening severe consequences if the militant group does not release hostages by January 20, 2025. Trump emphasized that those responsible for the hostages’ captivity will face unprecedented retaliation once he assumes office. This warning follows the failure of President Joe Biden’s administration to secure a deal to end the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas and release hostages taken during the October 7, 2023 attack. Meanwhile, Biden expressed sorrow over the discovery that Hamas has been holding the body of an American soldier killed in the attack.
NEPAL ACCEPTS $20 MILLION GRANT FROM CHINA
The Nepal government has agreed to accept $20 million in grant assistance from China ahead of Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli’s official visit to China. The Council of Ministers confirmed this decision during a meeting on Sunday, which also includes accepting an additional $4.13 million in projects proposed by China. Oli’s visit, his first to a neighbouring country during this term, will focus on discussions with Chinese President Xi Jinping on various mutual interests. Key topics include infrastructure projects like the Tokha-Khahare Tunnel and the expansion of Kathmandu Ring Road.
$3.5 BILLION MISALLOCATION SCAM IN CANADA
An audit report revealed a significant mismanagement in Canada’s COVID-19 relief efforts, where $3.5 billion in loans were distributed to ineligible businesses under the Canadian Emergency Business Account (CEBA) program. Launched to support small businesses during the pandemic, the program involved over $49 billion in loans. The report criticized the government for inadequate oversight, highlighting that $853 million in administrative spending lacked proper controls. The Trudeau administration also over-relied on Accenture, awarding the contractor nearly 91% of the $230 million budget without competitive bidding.
