Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 10:47am on 20 Mar 2025,Thursday International
At least 55 Palestinians were killed in overnight Israeli airstrikes on Gaza, according to the Hamas-run civil defense agency. The attacks come as Israel resumes its military campaign, which has killed over 48,500 Palestinians, per Hamas health officials. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced "targeted ground activities" in Gaza to create a buffer zone. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared combat had resumed “in full force,” warning of intensified strikes until Hamas releases 59 remaining hostages. Ceasefire talks collapsed as Hamas rejected Israel’s terms. Israel has also blocked essential supplies to Gaza since early March.
Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 05:27am on 20 Mar 2025,Thursday International
US President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky held an hour-long call discussing ceasefire efforts and Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. Trump proposed possible US ownership of Ukraine’s power plants, which Zelensky later clarified was only regarding the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia facility. The discussion followed Trump’s call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, who rejected a 30-day ceasefire proposal. Meanwhile, Ukraine and Russia exchanged 175 POWs each, with Kyiv receiving 22 severely wounded soldiers. Despite ongoing talks, both nations accused each other of continued attacks on energy infrastructure. Technical teams from Ukraine and the US will meet in Saudi Arabia soon.
Brief by Shorts91NewsDesk / 03:58am on 20 Mar 2025,Thursday International
On March 18, 2025, Hungary's parliament, led by Prime Minister Viktor Orbán's Fidesz party, passed legislation prohibiting LGBTQ+ Pride marches in public spaces, citing child protection concerns. The law also permits authorities to use facial recognition technology to identify and fine participants. This move has ignited significant protests, including a blockade of a central Budapest bridge, and drawn sharp criticism from human rights organizations and the European Union, which view the law as an infringement on fundamental rights and freedoms. Budapest's mayor, Gergely Karácsony, has vowed to proceed with the planned Pride event on June 28, asserting the city's commitment to freedom and inclusivity. Critics argue that the legislation serves as a distraction from domestic issues and is part of a broader pattern of actions against LGBTQ+ rights under Orbán's administration.
Brief by Shorts91NewsDesk / 03:00am on 20 Mar 2025,Thursday International
On March 18, 2025, Israel launched extensive airstrikes across the Gaza Strip after ceasefire negotiations with Hamas deteriorated. The surprise offensive resulted in over 400 Palestinian deaths, marking one of the deadliest escalations since the conflict began in October 2023. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced the resumption of full-scale combat operations against Hamas, stating that the recent strikes were "just the beginning." The Israeli Defense Forces targeted Hamas leadership, military commanders, and infrastructure in these attacks. In retaliation, Hamas accused Israel of endangering hostages and vowed continued resistance. The international community expressed deep concern over the escalating violence and its humanitarian impact, urging both sides to exercise restraint and return to negotiations.
Brief by Shorts91NewsDesk / 02:41am on 20 Mar 2025,Thursday International
The latest batch of JFK assassination files has been released, but some redactions remain despite promises of full disclosure. A 1992 law mandated the release of all documents, but national security exceptions have delayed full transparency. Both former President Trump and President Biden have pushed for more releases, with Trump claiming he requested no redactions—though some still exist. Experts acknowledge progress but note that key documents held by the CIA and FBI remain classified. While further disclosures are expected, historians agree that debates and conspiracy theories surrounding JFK’s assassination are unlikely to end.
Brief by Shorts91NewsDesk / 02:34am on 20 Mar 2025,Thursday International
On March 18, 2025, Israel resumed heavy airstrikes across Gaza following the breakdown of ceasefire negotiations with Hamas. The attacks, among the deadliest since the war began, killed over 400 Palestinians, including 130 children, according to Gaza’s health ministry. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared the strikes "only the beginning," vowing continued military action until Hamas is dismantled. The UN Security Council convened an emergency session, warning of catastrophic humanitarian conditions as Israel blocked aid. Hamas accused Israel of using hostages as leverage, while international leaders called for immediate de-escalation to prevent further bloodshed.
Brief by Shorts91NewsDesk / 02:24am on 20 Mar 2025,Thursday International
On March 19, 2025, Israel intensified its military assault on Gaza, launching widespread airstrikes and initiating a ground offensive to reclaim the Netzarim corridor. The renewed attacks have killed at least five people in Gaza City and Beit Hanoun, adding to over 400 Palestinian deaths from strikes a day earlier. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to continue operations until Hamas is dismantled and hostages are freed. The Israel Defense Forces issued fresh evacuation orders, signaling further escalation. Global leaders, including UN officials, have expressed grave concerns over the rising civilian toll and worsening humanitarian crisis.
Brief by Shorts91NewsDesk / 02:14am on 20 Mar 2025,Thursday International
On March 19, 2025, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reignited military operations in Gaza, despite 59 hostages still being held by Hamas. The decision has sparked mass protests, with tens of thousands, including former security officials and hostage families, accusing him of prolonging the war for political survival. Netanyahu's dismissal of Shin Bet chief Ronen Bar has added to public outrage, seen as a politically motivated move. Opposition leader Yair Lapid has called for nationwide demonstrations. Meanwhile, hardliner Itamar Ben-Gvir has rejoined Netanyahu’s coalition, strengthening the right-wing government amid escalating tensions and international criticism.
Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 06:43pm on 19 Mar 2025,Wednesday International
A UN worker was killed and others were injured in Gaza after a compound was damaged on Wednesday. The cause of the incident is unclear. Hamas blamed an Israeli strike, but Israel denied targeting the UN site. The attack happened after Israel resumed fighting, breaking a two-month ceasefire. Gaza's health ministry said over 400 people have died since strikes restarted. The UN has called for an investigation. Meanwhile, protests erupted in Israel against the renewed offensive. Talks for a lasting ceasefire have stalled, and humanitarian aid remains blocked at Gaza's borders.
Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 06:39pm on 19 Mar 2025,Wednesday International
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky will speak to US President Donald Trump about monitoring a possible ceasefire with Russia. Russian President Vladimir Putin agreed to stop attacks on Ukraine’s energy facilities but did not approve a full 30-day ceasefire. Despite this, both sides accused each other of launching fresh air attacks. Zelensky said Ukraine would provide a list of key sites for the US and allies to monitor. He stressed that if Russia stops its attacks, Ukraine will do the same. Ukraine's air force reported shooting down 72 drones, while Russia claimed to have destroyed 57 Ukrainian drones.