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Trump to chair Gaza meeting in Washington, top US and Israeli diplomats to also meet

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Trump to chair Gaza meeting in Washington, top US and Israeli diplomats to also meet

Washington, USA – U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff said on Tuesday that President Donald Trumpwould chair a meeting on Gaza at the White House on Wednesday and added that Washington expected Israel’s war in the Palestinian territory to be settled by the end of the year.
The U.S. State Department separately said Secretary of State Marco Rubio will meet Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar in Washington on Wednesday. It released the information in a regular next-day public schedule that said their meeting at the State Department would be held at 1515 ET (1915 GMT).

WHY IT’S IMPORTANT

Trump had promised a swift end to the war in Gaza during the 2024 U.S. election campaign and after taking office in January, but almost seven months into his term, that stated goal remains elusive.
Trump’s term began with a ceasefire which lasted two months and ended when Israeli strikes killed around 400 Palestinians on March 18. In recent weeks, images of starving Palestinians in Gaza, including children, have shocked the world and fueled criticism of Israel over the worsening conditions.

KEY QUOTES

When asked on Fox News’ “Special Report with Bret Baier” show if there is a post-war plan for Gaza, Witkoff said: “Yes, we’ve got a large meeting in the White House tomorrow, chaired by the president, and it’s a very comprehensive plan we’re putting together on the next day.”

RELATED NEWS : President Lee Urges Trump to Lead Peace Efforts on Korean Peninsula

He did not elaborate further and did not list the meeting’s participants.
When asked should Israel be doing anything differently to end the war and secure the release of the hostages, Witkoff said: “We think that we’re going to settle this one way or another, certainly before the end of this year.”
Witkoff said Israel was open to continuing discussions with Palestinian militant group Hamas. He said Hamas had signaled it was open to a settlement.

CONTEXT

U.S. ally Israel’s devastating assault on Gaza since October 2023 has killed over 62,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza health authorities. It has also caused a hunger crisis, internally displaced Gaza’s entire population and prompted accusations of genocide and war crimes at international courts that Israel denies.
The latest bloodshed in the decades-old Israeli-Palestinian conflict was triggered in October 2023 when Hamas attacked Israel, killing 1,200 and taking about 250 hostages, Israeli tallies show.

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At least 34 Colombian soldiers kidnapped after clashes with FARC dissidents

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At least 34 Colombian soldiers kidnapped after clashes with FARC dissidents

Bogotá, Colombia – Colombia’s Defense Minister Pedro Sánchez confirmed on Tuesday that 34 Army soldiers were kidnapped during a military operation in rural El Retorno, Guaviare, southern region of Colombia, where a senior commander of FARC dissidents was killed.

The minister denounced the abduction as “an illegal and criminal act,” and said some civilians were allegedly involved, claiming they sought to establish a humanitarian corridor.

RELATED NEWS : Colombia hit by twin attacks, 13 killed; president brands armed groups as terrorists

“That is a kidnapping; it goes against the will of the soldiers. We have called on the Ombudsman’s Office and the United Nations to demand their immediate release,” Sánchez told reporters after meeting with Attorney General Gregorio Eljach and other officials to review security ahead of the 2026 legislative and presidential elections.

Soldiers taken after guerrilla leader killed

The commander-in-chief of the Armed Forces, Admiral Francisco Cubides, explained that the kidnapping took place after other clashes in the same area in which ten other guerrillas were killed.

“Continuing the military operations (…) that began last Sunday, Aug.24, yesterday troops from the Armed Forces engaged in combat with members of the self-styled Martín Villa Mobile Block, belonging to the FARC dissidents,” the admiral said in X.

The kidnapping took place in the same rural area where the Army on Sunday killed Willinton Vanegas Leyva, also known as ‘Dumar’ or ‘Chito,’ one of the top leaders of the Estado Mayor Central (EMC), the largest faction of FARC (Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia) dissidents.

FARC dissidents are groups formerly part of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), who refused to lay down their arms after the Colombian peace process came into effect in 2016, or resumed their insurgency afterwards.

Dumar was considered the main commander of the EMC’s Martín Villa structure and a close ally of Iván Mordisco (Néstor Vera Fernández), the guerrilla leader most wanted by Colombian authorities.

According to Sánchez, Dumar’s role was to “consolidate strategic drug-trafficking corridors in Meta and Guaviare to strengthen the dissidents and expand their criminal apparatus.”

Government demands release, calls UN

Minister Sánchez stressed that the kidnapping disrupted an active military offensive against Mordisco’s group, which authorities have identified as the main threat in the region.

“This operation was being carried out in response to alerts from the Ombudsman’s Office to protect civilians from Mordisco’s criminal actions,” he said.

The Army reported that in the same operation that killed Dumar, another guerrilla was also killed, while six fighters were captured, including two women.

Rising security tensions in Colombia

The abduction of dozens of soldiers comes amid mounting security concerns in Colombia as the country prepares for elections in 2026.

The government has faced increasing attacks from FARC dissidents who rejected the 2016 peace deal, as well as from other armed groups expanding their presence in strategic regions.

Sánchez reiterated that the state “will not accept conditions or negotiations imposed by armed groups,” insisting that the priority remains the safe return of the kidnapped soldiers. 

SOURCE : EFE. |  Follow Us: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Youtube |

Slovenian President Reiterates Support for Palestinian Statehood and Human Dignity

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Slovenian President Reiterates Support for Palestinian Statehood and Human Dignity

Ljubljana, Slovenia – Slovenian President Nataša Pirc Musar on Tuesday underscored her country’s support for Palestinian statehood, declaring that “Palestinians deserve peace, security and a dignified life in their own country.

She made the statement during her meeting with Palestinian Foreign Minister Varsen Aghabekian Shahin, who is visiting Ljubljana for high-level talks aimed at strengthening bilateral ties.

According to the president’s office, the meeting focused on the current situation in the Middle East, ongoing efforts to achieve peace, and opportunities to expand Slovenian–Palestinian cooperation in areas of mutual interest.

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President Pirc Musar emphasized that a just and lasting solution to the Israeli–Palestinian conflict is vital not only for regional stability but also for international peace and security. She reaffirmed Slovenia’s position that the two-state solution remains the only viable path to ensuring dignity, safety and prosperity for both peoples.

For his part, Foreign Minister Shahin thanked Slovenia for its continued support and welcomed Ljubljana’s efforts to advocate for Palestinian rights on the global stage. He noted that stronger cooperation between Slovenia and Palestine could pave the way for greater cultural, educational and economic exchanges.

The meeting comes at a time when international attention is once again focused on the Middle East, with growing calls in Europe and beyond for renewed diplomatic engagement to resolve the long-standing conflict. Slovenia, a member of the European Union, has repeatedly voiced support for peace initiatives that uphold international law and the right of Palestinians to an independent state.

Slovenia remains one of the most vocal supporters of Palestinian statehood and the two-state solution. We are calling for an immediate and permanent ceasefire, the safe and unhindered delivery of humanitarian aid, and respect for international law. Our first priority is the protection of civilians – starving the civilian population is unacceptable, She post on X formerly twitter.

SOURCE : STA |  Follow Us: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Youtube |

Weihnachts‑Freispiele bei Total Casino: So nutzen Sie Gratis‑Spins, bevor Sie echtes Geld gewinnen

Roshan Bilung
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Weihnachts‑Freispiele bei Total Casino: So nutzen Sie Gratis‑Spins, bevor Sie echtes Geld gewinnen

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Supreme Court Orders Investigation into Anant Ambani’s Vantara Wildlife Park

Shasi Kumar
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Supreme Court Orders Investigation into Anant Ambani’s Vantara Wildlife Park

New Delhi, India – The Supreme Court has ordered an independent investigation into Vantara, the sprawling wildlife rescue and rehabilitation park run by Reliance Foundation in Jamnagar, Gujarat. The project, spearheaded by Anant Ambani, son of billionaire Mukesh Ambani, houses over 1.5 lakh animals across 2,000 species and includes what it claims is the world’s largest elephant care facility.

The court’s directive came while hearing a batch of public interest litigations filed by wildlife groups alleging mistreatment of animals, irregularities in acquisitions, and lapses by the Central Zoo Authority (CZA). Though the bench noted that the allegations were “unsupported by proof,” it said an independent appraisal was necessary “in the ends of justice.”

RELATED NEWS : Anil Ambani, Reliance Communications Face CBI Case in ₹30 Billion Fraud Allegation

A committee led by a retired Supreme Court judge will now examine animal acquisitions—particularly elephants—review complaints of a “vanity collection,” and assess compliance with India’s Wildlife Protection Act.

The panel has been asked to submit its report by September 12.

In a statement, a Vantara spokesperson said the facility remains “committed to transparency and legal compliance” and will fully cooperate with the inquiry. “Our mission and focus continues to be the rescue, rehabilitation and care of animals,” it added.

The Ambani family’s marquee project made headlines last year when it hosted part of Anant Ambani’s pre-wedding festivities, with international celebrities invited to tour the centre in themed “jungle fever” outfits. Earlier this year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also visited the park, describing it as a “safe haven for animals” that furthers ecological sustainability.

Apart from leading Vantara, Anant Ambani serves as Executive Director at Reliance Industries and plays a key role in its telecom and technology arm, Jio Platforms.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s inauguration of Vantara, a wildlife park run by Reliance Foundation in Jamnagar, had drawn flak from opposition leaders and activists, who questioned his close association with the Ambani family.

While Modi praised the project on X as a “safe haven for animals” and lauded Anant Ambani’s “compassionate effort,” critics pointed out that the Supreme Court has already ordered a probe into the facility over allegations of irregular animal acquisitions and violations of wildlife laws.

SOURCE : AGENCIES |  Follow Us: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Youtube |

Kim Kardashian and Daughter North Twin in All-Black Looks During Stylish Night Out in Rome

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Kim Kardashian and Daughter North Twin in All-Black Looks During Stylish Night Out in Rome

Rome, Italy – Kim Kardashian and her daughter North West turned heads on Saturday, August 22, as they stepped out in coordinated all-black ensembles during an evening in the Italian capital.

The SKIMS founder, 44, opted for a sleek black bodycon silk dress, while her 12-year-old daughter North made a bold fashion statement in a corset, skirt, and knee-high boots. With her striking electric-blue hair styled into two waist-length ponytails, North stood nearly eye-to-eye with her famous mom.

The mother-daughter duo later shared a TikTok on their joint account, dancing to Destroy Lonely’s “If Looks Could Kill” and showing off their matching outfits. Kardashian first revealed North’s vibrant blue hair back in June on Instagram Stories, captioning a photo of her daughter with a simple.

Fans have often noted the resemblance between Kardashian and her eldest child. In July, the reality star reposted a side-by-side photo comparison of her younger self and North, captioning it: “Like mom, like daughter.”

Kardashian, who is also mom to Psalm, 6, Chicago, 7, and Saint, 9, has previously admitted she sometimes turns to North for fashion feedback. Speaking at the 2025 Met Gala, Kardashian shared that her daughter isn’t afraid to critique her looks but does so with a positive outlook.

“She’s a big critiquer, but it’s pretty good,” Kardashian told Vogue’s Emma Chamberlain. “Even if something’s not her style, she always says, ‘Just be you, and if you like it, that’s what matters.’”

The proud mom added that bringing North along to events is always special: “She was such a positive force tonight. It was great.”

SOURCE : PEOPLE |  Follow Us: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Youtube |

Indonesia hosts annual US-led combat drills with Indo-Pacific allies

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Indonesia hosts annual US-led combat drills with Indo-Pacific allies

Jakarta, Indonesia – Indonesia and the United States began annual joint military exercises on Monday together with forces from a dozen other countries, as the U.S. pushes its allies to take threats from China more seriously.

Hosted by the Indonesian National Armed Forces, this year’s Super Garuda Shield focused on strengthening regional ties in an increasingly unstable global landscape, said Gen. Tandyo Budi Revita, the military’s Deputy Commander.

RELATED NEWS : Thailand again accuses Cambodia of planting land mines as 3 soldiers are hurt by blast along border

“It serves as a joint exercise where we stand together to respond every challenge quickly and precisely.” he said in his speech at kick-off ceremony along with Admiral Samuel Paparo, the Commander of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command.

The exercise has been held annually in Jakarta by U.S. and Indonesian soldiers since 2009. The list of participants expanded since 2022 to include Australia, Japan, Singapore, the United Kingdom, France, Canada, Germany, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Brazil and South Korea, bringing the total number of troops taking part in the drill to 6,500.

Paparo said the expanded participants symbolizes a commitment to partnership and to the sovereignty of each country through mutual respect.

“It represents deterring anyone that would hope to change the facts on the ground using violence with the collective determination of all participants to uphold the principles of sovereignty,” Paparo said.

Jakarta has expressed concern about what it sees as Chinese encroachment on its exclusive economic zone in the South China Sea, while maintaining generally positive ties with Beijing.

Commander of US Indo-Pacific Command Adm. Samuel Paparo, right, shakes hands with Deputy Commander of the Indonesian Armed Forces Gen. Tandyo Budi Revita during the opening ceremony of Super Garuda Shield 2025, an Indonesia-US annual large-scale joint military exercise that brings together forces from multiple countries, in Jakarta, Indonesia Monday, Aug. 25, 2025. Photo : AP

Several Asian countries also sent observers to the 11-day combat exercise in Jakarta and on Sumatra island. They will end on Sept. 4 with a combined live-fire drill.

The expanded drills have sparked concern from China, which accused the U.S. of trying to build an “Asian NATO” to limit China’s growing military and diplomatic influence in the region.

During a recent speech in Singapore, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth cautioned that seeking U.S. military support while relying on Chinese economic support carries risk.

Hegseth said Washington has been strengthening an arc of military alliances in the Indo-Pacific to reassure allies alarmed by Beijing’s increasing military and economic pressure from China and provocative actions in the disputed South China Sea.

Despite increased activities by Chinese coast guard vessels and fishing boats in the area have unnerved Jakarta, Indonesia has sought to avoid confrontation and continued economic initiatives with China.

Jakarta’s decision to sidestep the issue is consistent with its longstanding policy of keeping friction with Beijing behind closed doors, especially given the scale of Chinese trade and investment in the Indonesian economy, said Muhammad Zulfikar Rakhmat and Yeta Purnama, researchers at the Center of Economic and Law Studies or CELIOS.

“This dual-track diplomacy might seem inconsistent. But for Jakarta, it is strategic. Indonesia is embracing defense diversification, not alignment,” said Rakhmat of CELIOS.

The country has remained committed to Super Garuda Shield and continued purchasing U.S. and French arms and developing interoperability with Western militaries, he added.

“In a region defined by rising tensions and great power rivalry, Indonesia’s refusal to choose sides, at least in defense, might be its strongest asset,” Rakhmat said.

SOURCE : AP NEWS |  Follow Us: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Youtube |

President Lee Urges Trump to Lead Peace Efforts on Korean Peninsula

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President Lee Urges Trump to Lead Peace Efforts on Korean Peninsula

Washington, USA — South Korean President Lee Jae Myung on Monday voiced hope that U.S. President Donald Trump would act as a “peacemaker” and open a new path for peace on the Korean Peninsula, as he looked forward to a potential Trump–Kim Jong-un meeting.

During their first high-stakes summit at the White House, Lee urged Trump “to bring peace to the Korean Peninsula, the only divided nation remaining in the world.” The talks were expected to center on alliance modernization and trade, following a recent agreement reducing U.S. tariffs on South Korean goods to 15 percent from a threatened 25 percent.

RELATED NEWS : Trump Seeks Meeting With Kim Jong Un as South Korea’s New President Lee Visits White House

Trump, for his part, reiterated his willingness to meet North Korea’s Kim Jong-un this year, renewing calls for dialogue with the reclusive regime.

“I hope you will meet Kim Jong-un and even build a ‘Trump World’ in North Korea so that I can play golf there, and that you will firmly play the role of a historic peacemaker,” Lee said. He praised the stability of the Korean Peninsula during Trump’s first term, contrasting it with recent years marked by Pyongyang’s advancing nuclear and missile programs.

“It is not easy for inter-Korean relations to improve through my involvement alone. In fact, the only person who can truly resolve this issue is President Trump,” Lee added. “If you play the role of a ‘peacemaker,’ I will work hard as a ‘pacemaker’ to support you.”

Lee also expressed interest in strengthening cooperation with Washington in shipbuilding and manufacturing, saying, “A renaissance is taking place in the U.S. not only in shipbuilding but also in manufacturing, and I hope the Republic of Korea can join in that process.”

SOURCE : YONHAP NEWS |  Follow Us: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Youtube |

Trump Seeks Meeting With Kim Jong Un as South Korea’s New President Lee Visits White House

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Trump Seeks Meeting With Kim Jong Un as South Korea’s New President Lee Visits White House

Washington, USA — U.S. President Donald Trump said on Monday he wanted to meet with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and signaled openness to further trade talks with South Korea, even as he leveled fresh criticism at his visiting Asian ally.

South Korea’s new President, Lee Jae Myung, arrived at the White House for high-stakes talks just hours after Trump publicly criticized Seoul’s handling of investigations into the December martial law attempt by his conservative predecessor. The remarks cast a tense shadow over Lee’s first official visit since taking office in June following the impeachment and removal of Yoon Suk Yeol.

RELATED NEWS : Japan’s Ishiba, South Korea’s Lee agree closer cooperation before Lee meets Trump

Welcoming Lee to the Oval Office, Trump said he was open to revisiting aspects of the U.S.–South Korea trade deal and expressed interest in renewed dialogue with North Korea.
“I’d like to have a meeting,” Trump told reporters. “I look forward to meeting with Kim Jong Un in the appropriate future.”

President Lee, striking a conciliatory tone, praised Trump and voiced support for renewed U.S.–North Korea engagement. South Korea’s economy remains closely tied to the U.S., which underwrites its defense with troops and nuclear deterrence. Trump, however, reiterated his long-standing view that Seoul has been “a money machine” benefiting disproportionately from American protection.

The White House meeting also touched on sensitive domestic issues. When asked about Trump’s earlier social media post alleging misconduct linked to raids on churches, Lee sought to carefully clarify Seoul’s position.
“We didn’t directly investigate the U.S. base; we investigated the South Korean unit within the base. I will explain it to you more in detail later,” Lee told Trump.

Observers noted the unusual contrast between Trump’s sharp online remarks and his later effort to downplay them. After accusing Seoul of serious misconduct, Trump dismissed the issue during the press availability, saying: “I’m sure this was just a misunderstanding.”

The meeting comes at a pivotal time as Washington, Seoul, and Pyongyang weigh next steps on regional security, trade, and diplomatic engagement.

SOURCE : REUTERS |  Follow Us: Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Youtube |

Zelenskyy met Norway’s Prime Minister Støre, Agree on Stronger Defense, Energy Cooperation, and Security Guarantees

Shasi Kumar
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Zelenskyy met Norway’s Prime Minister Støre, Agree on Stronger Defense, Energy Cooperation, and Security Guarantees

Kyiv, Ukraine — President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre in Kyiv to discuss Ukraine’s defense needs, energy cooperation, and long-term security guarantees as the war with Russia continues.

The talks focused on diplomatic efforts for a “just peace,” strengthening Ukraine’s air defense, the return of abducted Ukrainian children, and closer cooperation with partners on arms procurement.

RELATED NEWS : Ukraine’s Zelenskiy says he discussed pressure on Russia with US envoy Kellogg

Zelenskyy thanked Norway for its “consistent and systemic support,” highlighting Oslo’s role in supplying NASAMS systems and confirming that Norway, together with Germany, will finance the purchase of two Patriot air defense systems and their missiles. He also expressed hope for joint NASAMS production with Norway.
“Our partners are well aware of our air defense needs. We hope that Norway’s example of assistance will be followed by other countries, particularly Scandinavian states,” Zelenskyy said.

Prime Minister Støre confirmed that Norway will maintain the same level of assistance in 2026, with part of the funds directed toward Ukraine’s drone production. “A strong and well-equipped Ukrainian army will be one of the most significant security guarantees for the future,” he noted.

Both leaders discussed frontline developments, arms procurement under NATO’s PURL program, and ways to strengthen Ukraine’s long-range drone capabilities as a means of pressuring Russia to seek peace.

The meeting also addressed energy resilience, with Norway pledging support for Ukraine’s gas purchases to help the country through the winter. Zelenskyy emphasized the importance of this aid amid Russian strikes on energy infrastructure.

Special attention was given to the return of Ukrainian children abducted by Russia. Norway reaffirmed its active role in the International Coalition for the Return of Ukrainian Children under Ukraine’s Bring Kids Back UA initiative.

Both sides reiterated that sanctions against Russia must remain in place until Moscow fully ends its aggression and occupation of Ukrainian territories.

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