Syria’s interim president Ahmad al-Sharaa has urged Bedouin tribes to fully commit to a fragile ceasefire following a week of deadly clashes with Druze militias in Sweida province. The conflict has killed hundreds and displaced nearly 80,000 people, worsening an already dire humanitarian situation. Israel intervened militarily, citing protection of the Druze minority, leading to high-level diplomacy brokered by the US, Turkey, and regional allies. Despite a formal truce, new clashes erupted as revenge attacks continued, threatening to unravel the peace deal. The Syrian government warned of deploying special forces if violence persists.
CHINA BEGINS TIBET MEGA-DAM PROJECT
China has officially begun construction of a massive hydroelectric dam on the Yarlung Tsangpo River in Tibet, known downstream as the Brahmaputra. The $167 billion project, set to include five hydropower stations, aims to support China’s carbon neutrality goals and supply power to other regions while also meeting Tibet’s needs. However, the project has triggered concerns in India and Bangladesh over potential downstream impacts, including water flow disruption and ecological damage. India has raised diplomatic concerns, while China insists the project will not harm lower riparian states. Environmental groups also warn of risks to the fragile Tibetan plateau.
US SENDS PATRIOTS VIA GERMANY
The United States has redirected a Patriot air defence system to Germany instead of Switzerland to expedite Ukraine’s missile defence deliveries. Under this arrangement, Berlin will send two of its own Patriot systems to Kyiv, while the US replenishes Germany’s stock. This is the first concrete action under former President Donald Trump’s new arms plan for Ukraine, supported by NATO and EU nations. With Russia’s relentless missile and drone strikes continuing, Ukraine’s need for advanced air defence has become urgent. The US says deliveries will now move faster under bilateral deals with NATO members.
TRUMP SEEKS EPSTEIN JURY TRANSCRIPTS
The Trump administration has requested the release of grand jury transcripts related to the Jeffrey Epstein case, but refuses to disclose thousands of Justice Department-held documents. The move follows media reports linking Trump to Epstein via a 2003 birthday note allegedly signed by Trump, sparking controversy. Trump denies the letter’s authenticity and has filed a $10 billion lawsuit against the Wall Street Journal over the report. Attorney General Pam Bondi announced the selective release decision, prompting criticism from Trump’s base and fueling conspiracy theories. Legal battles over transparency and accountability are now intensifying.
LA CLUB CRASH INJURES 30
A car plowed into a crowd outside The Vermont nightclub in Los Angeles early Saturday, injuring at least 30 people, according to local police and fire officials. Seven victims are in critical condition, while six others suffered serious injuries. The vehicle reportedly struck a taco truck and valet stand before crashing into partygoers. The driver was then assaulted by bystanders and shot during the altercation. Police are investigating the motive, and the suspected shooter fled the scene armed with a silver revolver. Authorities have urged witnesses to come forward as the investigation continues.
