News without the noise · Toronto Edition
Updated 1h ago · 44 stories
A series of Russian drone and missile strikes on Kyiv resulted in at least eight fatalities, including a 12-year-old girl, and left many others injured. Rescue operations are ongoing at a partially destroyed apartment building, where at least 20 individuals are feared missing. The attacks, which
Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi accused the United Arab Emirates of actively participating in the U.S.-Israeli war against Iran, claiming their involvement in attacks. Meanwhile, Iranian media reported that Iran has allowed Chinese ships to pass through the Strait of Hormuz under new transit protocols. This development follows a series of maritime incidents, including an attack on an Indian-flagged ship off the coast of Oman, with all crew members reported safe.
During a recent meeting, US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping discussed the importance of keeping the Strait of Hormuz open for energy flow amid ongoing tensions related to the US-Israel war on Iran. The White House reported that both leaders agreed on the necessity of maintaining access to the strait, which has seen disruptions due to Iran's actions since the conflict began. Additionally, reports indicate that some Chinese vessels have been allowed to transit the strait under special agreements with Iran, despite the ongoing blockade enforced by the US.
Israel has intensified its military operations in southern Lebanon, resulting in the deaths of two individuals and prompting forced evacuations in several towns. This escalation comes as both nations prepare for U.S.-brokered discussions aimed at extending a ceasefire, which is set to expire soon. The Israeli army has targeted alleged Hezbollah infrastructure, while Lebanon's Ministry of Public Health reports significant casualties since the conflict resumed in March.
In April, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia conducted a series of secret air strikes against Iran amid ongoing tensions related to the US-Israeli conflict with Tehran. Analysts suggest that the strikes were intended to avoid public humiliation of Iran, which could provoke retaliation from Tehran.
Israel and Lebanon are set to engage in a new round of negotiations aimed at preserving a fragile ceasefire, which has been repeatedly violated. This meeting, the third this year, comes amid ongoing Israeli attacks in Lebanon, resulting in civilian casualties. The Lebanese government is advocating for a ceasefire enforcement before further discussions, while Israel seeks to continue its military operations and disarm Hezbollah.