At least 17 people died and 15 were injured in a shooting at a tavern in Gauteng province, South Africa. Police are looking for eight suspects who may have used rifles and pistols, but the reason for the attack is still unknown.
Key Facts
The shooting happened in Wedela township, southwest of Johannesburg.
Emergency services confirmed 17 people died at the scene.
Another 15 people were wounded in the attack.
Police are searching for eight suspects involved in the incident.
The suspects are believed to have used AK-47 rifles and pistols.
The motive behind the shooting has not been determined.
The incident took place in South Africa’s Gauteng province.
Police are actively investigating and looking for more information.
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Pope Leo XIV led a large outdoor Mass in central Paris, attracting about 800,000 people. He also visited Lourdes, where thousands gathered for prayers at a famous grotto.
Key Facts
The open-air Mass took place at Place de la Concorde in Paris.
Around 800,000 people attended the Mass.
Pope Leo XIV visited Lourdes during his trip to France.
Thousands of worshippers greeted him in Lourdes.
The Pope prayed at the Grotto of Massabielle, a well-known holy site.
The events were part of the Pope’s official visit to France.
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Ethiopia’s federal army says it is carefully managing rising conflict in the country’s north to avoid a new civil war. Fighting has spread from the Tigray region to neighboring areas, with a new rebel alliance aiming to remove the government, and internet access has been cut amid concerns about drone attacks on civilians.
Key Facts
Ethiopia’s army chief says the military is acting with “wisdom and restraint” amid rising tensions in northern Ethiopia.
Multiple armed groups formed the Ethiopian Peoples’ Forces Alliance for Survival to oppose Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s government.
Fighting has spread beyond Tigray into the Afar and Amhara regions, with clashes around towns like Abala and Alamata.
Ethiopia’s army reported killing 272 fighters and wounding 260 in a recent counterattack near North Wollo, part of Amhara region.
The Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) says the federal government has launched a full military offensive using infantry, mechanized units, and drones.
Internet was cut off in northern Ethiopia after reports of drone strikes on civilians, raising alarm at the UN.
The 2022 Pretoria Agreement, which previously ended a two-year civil war in Tigray, is under severe strain due to renewed fighting.
Ethiopia’s president accused foreign actors of interfering in the country, emphasizing Ethiopia’s role in regional peace efforts.
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Four Tunisian activists, including Wael Naouar, have been held since March on suspicion of financial irregularities related to fundraising for an aid flotilla to Gaza. Wael’s health is worsening, and his family reports his difficult condition and emotional impact on his children. The activists and their lawyers deny any wrongdoing, and their pretrial detention was recently extended.
Key Facts
Wael Naouar and three other activists have been detained since March in Tunisia.
They are investigated for possible misuse of funds raised for the Global Sumud Flotilla, which aims to deliver aid to Gaza.
None of the four activists have been found guilty; their lawyers say this continued detention is unfair.
Wael started a hunger strike on August 16, which lasted 38 days and hurt his health.
Wael’s family describes his declining physical condition, including dizziness and difficulty controlling his leg.
His young son and daughter have been emotionally affected by his imprisonment.
The investigating judge has extended their detention by four months, a decision now challenged by the defense.
The Tunisian Economic and Financial Judicial Pole is handling the investigation, focusing on financial crimes.
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Germany’s Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul met with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in New York for rare talks amid rising tensions after Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine. They discussed the war, diplomatic relations, and efforts to restart grain exports via the Black Sea, but no new agreements were made.
Key Facts
The meeting was the first between German and Russian foreign ministers since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022.
Germany requested the talks, held on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly.
Wadephul urged Russia to stop escalating tensions and called for a ceasefire focusing on grain exports and energy infrastructure.
Lavrov accused Germany of supporting Ukraine militarily and accused Ukraine of attacking vessels in the Black Sea.
Germany blames Russia for a recent drone incident near Leipzig airport; Russia denies involvement.
Both sides discussed bilateral ties and the war, but Lavrov said he learned nothing new.
Russia is in talks with India, Egypt, and Turkiye to ensure safe navigation in the Black Sea.
Wadephul informed European allies of the meeting, emphasizing Germany’s position against Russia’s aggression.
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Bangkok was declared a disaster zone after heavy rains caused widespread flooding. Up to 300 millimeters of rain fell, causing the city’s canals and drainage system to overflow.
Key Facts
Bangkok experienced very heavy rainfall, with some areas receiving up to 300 millimeters.
The heavy rain caused severe flooding in many parts of the city.
The flooding overwhelmed the city’s canals and drainage system, making it unable to handle the water.
The Thai government declared Bangkok a disaster zone to respond to the emergency.
Flooding has affected roads and infrastructure, causing disruptions for residents.
The declaration helps coordinate rescue efforts and access emergency resources.
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Thousands of people marched in Madrid to protest the city’s housing problems. The eviction of an 87-year-old woman named Maricarmen Abascal from her home increased public anger and led to more calls for government action.
Key Facts
Thousands of protesters gathered in Madrid.
They demanded solutions to the housing crisis.
An 87-year-old woman, Maricarmen Abascal, was forcibly evicted from her home.
The eviction happened on a Wednesday.
The eviction sparked renewed anger among the public.
Protesters called on the government to take action to fix the housing issues.
The protest was focused on the city of Madrid’s housing problems.
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The UN General Assembly ended with mixed results in diplomacy. President Donald Trump rejected Iran’s proposal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, while Russia and Germany restarted important talks, and China criticized the US approach to the region.
Key Facts
The UN General Assembly recently concluded with various diplomatic outcomes.
Iran proposed reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a key shipping route, but President Trump declined the offer.
Russia and Germany have resumed high-level discussions.
China criticized the United States’ strategy in the region.
The situation reflects ongoing tensions and differing views among major countries about how to handle conflicts in the Gulf area.
The Strait of Hormuz is important for global oil shipments and regional security.
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Venezuela released 39 political prisoners after a second round of talks involving the interim government and the opposition, supported by the United States. The talks aim to improve the country’s political situation and address issues like frozen funds and judiciary reform.
Key Facts
39 political prisoners were freed between Friday and Saturday from different prisons in Venezuela.
The released include eight women accused of drug-related terrorism and six people accused of working with the U.S. in a 2020 attempt to overthrow former President Maduro.
The talks were between interim President Delcy Rodriguez’s government and the opposition, with U.S. backing.
A first round of talks in August focused on recovering Venezuelan funds frozen abroad and reforming the judiciary.
An amnesty law was enacted in February to allow prisoner releases, but progress has been slow.
Rights group Foro Penal says 344 people are still political prisoners as of September 18, down from 391 in August.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said over 1,000 Venezuelans have been released since Maduro's removal.
Families of political prisoners have protested outside the U.S. embassy and prisons, calling attention to their situation.
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The European Union announced it will provide over 710 million euros ($810 million) in aid to help people affected by crises, especially in Africa. The funds will support displaced people, respond to conflicts, food shortages, disease outbreaks, and promote peace in several regions.
Key Facts
The EU will release more than 710 million euros ($810 million) for humanitarian aid worldwide, with a focus on Africa.
380 million euros ($430 million) is dedicated to migration support in sub-Saharan Africa, helping vulnerable migrants and voluntary returns.
97 million euros ($110 million) will address conflict, food insecurity, malnutrition, and climate problems in sub-Saharan Africa.
7.5 million euros ($8.5 million) will go to the Democratic Republic of the Congo to tackle the Ebola outbreak and prepare for future emergencies.
10 million euros ($11.5 million) will support peace and stability efforts in the Great Lakes region, troubled by conflict and environmental issues.
Palestinian territories and Lebanon will receive 103 million euros ($117 million) to help vulnerable groups.
Ukraine will get 52 million euros ($59 million) for humanitarian aid and emergency readiness.
The EU announced investments to boost health and nutrition businesses in Africa, vaccine production in Colombia, and primary healthcare in Ethiopia.
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Iran says it is waiting for an official reply from the United States about its plan to reopen the Strait of Hormuz within seven days. This statement came after President Donald Trump said he had rejected the plan.
Key Facts
Iran proposed reopening the Strait of Hormuz within seven days.
Iran’s foreign minister, Abbas Araghchi, said they have not yet received an official US response.
President Donald Trump announced he rejected Iran’s proposal.
The Strait of Hormuz is a key waterway for global oil shipments.
The situation involves ongoing talks and negotiation attempts between Iran and the US.
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Six people died after a gas leak caused a blast that collapsed a building in Athens, Greece. Four of the victims were American tourists, and two others were a British man and a Greek woman. Nearby buildings were damaged, and some people were injured.
Key Facts
The explosion happened in the Plaka district of Athens.
Six people died: four Americans, one British man, and one Greek woman.
The building that collapsed was a small, two-story structure.
The blast is believed to have been caused by a major gas leak.
Two neighboring buildings were severely damaged and might need to be demolished.
Residents had reported gas smells and safety concerns to authorities months before the explosion.
Emergency crews rescued two injured women from a nearby building.
Plaka is near the Acropolis, a famous ancient monument in Greece.
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Police in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines are investigating a shooting that killed four people and injured four others near the capital city, Kingstown. Officials say the violence is linked to gang conflicts and they are increasing patrols to prevent more attacks.
Key Facts
Four people died and four others were injured in a shooting in Kingstown, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines.
Police responded to reports of gunfire on Friday night in the Green Hill community.
The victims had apparent gunshot wounds; two injured people remained in hospital.
No arrests have been made and police have not yet confirmed a motive.
Authorities say the violence is connected to gang rivalries and possible retaliatory attacks.
There have been 37 homicides recorded in the country this year.
Police are increasing patrols, searches, and intelligence sharing to address the violence.
Officials urge young people to avoid gangs and violent behavior.
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Russia has increased its missile and air strikes in different parts of Ukraine. Ukraine’s biggest steel factory, run by ArcelorMittal, has stopped working because it is not safe to keep the plant open.
Key Facts
Russia has launched more missile and air strikes across Ukraine.
The steel plant in Kryvyi Rih is Ukraine’s largest.
The plant is owned by ArcelorMittal, a large steel company.
ArcelorMittal said it is too dangerous to keep the factory running.
The factory has halted all its operations.
The strike wave affects different regions of Ukraine.
Safety concerns are the main reason for stopping the plant work.
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Violence between Pakistan and Afghanistan has increased after years of changing relations. Pakistan accuses Afghanistan of sheltering fighters who attack Pakistan, while Afghanistan denies this, and efforts to stop the violence have not worked.
Key Facts
Pakistan and Afghanistan were once allies but now have tense relations.
Pakistan welcomed the Taliban's return to power in Afghanistan in 2021.
Relations have worsened since then, leading to violent clashes.
Pakistan accuses Afghanistan of protecting the Pakistan Taliban (TTP) and other groups responsible for attacks in Pakistan.
Afghanistan denies supporting or hiding these fighters.
Several attempts to end the violence have failed.
Recent incidents include air attacks, border conflicts, and suicide bombings.
Experts from both countries and international representatives have discussed the issue.
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Hamas criticized the Board of Peace for refusing to work with the UN agency UNRWA in Gaza, accusing it of siding with Israel and undermining Palestinian aid and rights. The Board said it only wants to work with trusted partners and claims UNRWA fails to meet its standards, while attacks continue in Gaza and the West Bank.
Key Facts
Hamas called the Board of Peace’s rejection of UNRWA “aligned with the Israeli position.”
The Board of Peace declared UNRWA will have no role in Gaza’s aid delivery.
UNRWA was created in 1949 to support Palestinian refugees and protect their right of return.
The Board of Peace says it works only with partners who help stabilize Gaza and reject UNRWA.
UNRWA officials have met privately with Board members despite the public rejection.
UNRWA’s former leader said the Board has failed to stop Israeli blocking of aid into Gaza.
Israeli attacks recently killed and injured Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank.
Israeli forces raided a university in Ramallah and arrested a man in Tulkarem as part of ongoing operations.
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Pope Leo XIV held an outdoor Mass in central Paris attended by more than 800,000 people during his four-day visit to France. The pope also visited Lourdes, met with migrants, and is scheduled to speak with victims of clerical abuse.
Key Facts
Over 800,000 people gathered for the open-air Mass at Place de la Concorde in Paris.
The pope rode through Paris in the "popemobile" along the Champs-Élysées.
This is the first official papal visit to France in nearly 20 years.
France is officially secular but has strong Catholic traditions.
The pope met migrants and spoke about living together in peace and the role of women in society.
He plans to meet with seven victims of clerical sex abuse during his visit.
The visit occurs before the upcoming French presidential election.
Several presidential candidates attended the Mass, but President Emmanuel Macron was represented only by his wife.
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Thousands of people protested in Madrid against the Spanish government's handling of a recent migrant crisis in Ceuta, a Spanish city in North Africa. The protest was organized by right-wing groups and criticized Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez for border failures during a large migrant arrival in late July.
Key Facts
Around 20,000 to 180,000 people attended the protest in Madrid, according to government and organizers.
In late July, over 70,000 migrants entered Ceuta from Morocco; most were returned but thousands remain stranded.
Protesters accuse the government of not protecting Ceuta’s borders and want early elections.
Vox party demands Prime Minister Sanchez be tried for treason and all migrants returned.
The government says Moroccan border controls did not manage the migrant arrival well and is investigating.
Spain plans to speed up the process to send stranded migrants back to Morocco.
The protest was supported by Spain’s conservative People’s Party and far-right Vox.
This was the second large protest under the “March for Dignity” name, with the first held before the June migration surge.
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Saudi Arabia spoke at the United Nations General Assembly and accused Iran of making clear attacks on civilian and economic sites in the region. Saudi Arabia also urged the world to condemn the Houthis, a group threatening shipping in the Red Sea.
Key Facts
Saudi Arabia made these accusations during its speech at the UN General Assembly.
Saudi Arabia said Iran attacked civilian and economic targets in the region.
The Saudi Foreign Minister called these attacks "flagrant," meaning very obvious and serious.
Saudi Arabia warned about threats to shipping in the Red Sea caused by the Houthis.
The Houthis are a group involved in conflicts in Yemen and the region.
Saudi Arabia asked the international community to take action against the Houthis.
The focus of the speech was on regional security and protecting trade routes in the Red Sea.
This speech reflects ongoing tensions between Saudi Arabia, Iran, and the Houthis.
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Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said at the UN General Assembly that Russia will continue its military actions in Ukraine until its goals are met. He described Russia's involvement as a fight for truth and justice.
Key Facts
Sergey Lavrov is the Russian Foreign Minister.
He spoke at the United Nations General Assembly.
Lavrov said Russia’s war in Ukraine will go on until it reaches its objectives.
He described the military operation as a fight for truth and justice.
The statement reflects Russia’s position on the conflict in Ukraine.
Moscow aims to complete its military plans in Ukraine.
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