Hezbollah claimed it repelled two Israeli incursions near Adaisseh in southern Lebanon, with clashes starting Friday night. The militant group reported engaging Israeli forces, causing an explosion that forced a retreat and inflicted casualties. A second Israeli advance occurred early Saturday, which Hezbollah said led to ongoing clashes. The Israeli military has not yet commented on the confrontations.
Gang Attack in Haiti Kills 70, Including Infants
A gang attack in central Haiti killed at least 70 people, including three infants, according to the UN. The Gran Grif gang targeted the town of Pont Sondé, using automatic rifles. Houses and vehicles were burned, and 6,000 people were displaced. Despite security challenges, local institutions are aiding victims. Prime Minister Garry Conille vowed to intensify law enforcement efforts.
US Warships and Planes Strike Houthi Targets in Yemen
The U.S. military launched strikes on Iranian-backed Houthi forces in Yemen, targeting 15 locations, including weapons systems and bases. The attacks, involving aircraft and warships, aim to protect navigation after the Houthis attacked around 100 ships since November. Explosions were reported in major cities, including Sanaa. The Houthis recently shot down a U.S. drone, and the Pentagon confirmed prior attacks on U.S. Navy ships.
Chad Leverages Russian-Western Rivalry
Chad, a long-time ally of France, is strategically leveraging its relationships with Russia and Western partners, aiming to deepen ties with Moscow, which is causing concern for Paris and Washington. President Mahamat Déby met with Vladimir Putin in January, and cultural connections have strengthened, highlighted by the opening of a Russian cultural center in N’Djamena. However, challenges arose recently when a sociologist linked to the Wagner Group was detained. Chad’s growing relationship with Russia is unsettling for the U.S. and France, particularly as military regimes in the Sahel increasingly favor Russian ties over Western ones.
EU Imposes Heavy Taxes on Chinese Electric Cars
The EU will impose significant tariffs on electric vehicle imports from China, following majority support from member states. This decision, aimed at protecting the European car industry from perceived unfair Chinese subsidies, will see tariffs rise from 10% to as much as 45% over five years. While intended to shield local manufacturers, concerns about increased EV prices for consumers have arisen. The move risks escalating trade tensions between Brussels and Beijing, which has criticized the tariffs as protectionist. China’s electric car industry, reliant on international markets, may face challenges as it competes with EU companies.
