Soudan: Tragedy Unfolds with Over 180 Deaths in Two Days
In a devastating turn of events, the people of Sudan are reeling from the aftermath of bombings that have claimed the lives of at least 176 individuals over the span of two days. According to reports from various sources, including official statements and members of the civil society, these attacks have been attributed to both the military and paramilitary forces in the region. The violence escalated on Tuesday when paramilitaries launched bombings in Omdourman, a suburb near the Sudanese capital, resulting in the deaths of at least 65 people. Prior to this, a military airstrike on a bustling market in North Darfur had already claimed over 100 lives, further deepening the tragedy. The ongoing conflict between the regular army and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has left tens of thousands dead and over 11 million displaced in Sudan since April 2023.
South Korea: Former Defense Minister Attempts Suicide
In a shocking development, Kim Yong-hyun, the ex-Defense Minister of South Korea who served during the short-lived martial law declaration a week ago, attempted suicide while in custody. Reports indicate that he tried to end his life by hanging late on Tuesday in his cell. The chaos in South Korea’s political landscape stems from President Yoon Suk-yeol’s failed attempt to impose martial law on the night of December 3-4, which was swiftly repealed due to pressure from the Parliament and the public. These events have plunged the country into uncertainty and unrest.
Brazil: Lula Recovers After Surgery for Brain Hemorrhage
President Lula of Brazil, aged 79, is currently recuperating in the intensive care unit of a hospital in São Paulo following a successful surgery to address a brain hemorrhage. The procedure, aimed at draining a hematoma caused by internal bleeding, was completed without complications. While Lula is expected to make a full recovery, he will remain under close observation in the ICU for 48 hours before being discharged next week. This health scare has reignited discussions about Lula’s political future, especially as the left-wing landscape in Brazil faces uncertainties due to a lack of viable successors within the Workers’ Party (PT), which Lula has led since its inception in 1980.
Rugby Players Cleared of Charges in Argentina Assault Case
French rugby internationals Hugo Auradou and Oscar Jégou have been acquitted of rape allegations in Argentina, with the judge ruling that the act in question did not constitute a crime. The players were accused of “rape with violence in a group” by a woman they met at a nightclub during the French national team’s tour in Argentina. Following the verdict, the players are now eligible to represent France once again. However, the accuser has expressed intentions to appeal the decision, while the rugby players are considering legal action against her for false accusations.
Malibu Engulfed in Flames, Thousands Evacuated
A raging fire has engulfed Malibu, the upscale California city known for its celebrity residents, prompting the evacuation of over 6,000 individuals as it rapidly spread across more than 890 hectares. The blaze, which started on Monday evening, forced the closure of all schools in the area. Despite the destructive nature of wildfires in Malibu, the situation is showing signs of improvement as the winds have subsided, allowing firefighting aircraft to contain the flames and protect homes. The proximity of the fire to the ocean has also played a role in limiting its expansion, offering a glimmer of hope amid the devastation.
