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Myanmar Earthquake: Death Toll Climbs to 3,145 Amid Ongoing Rescue Efforts

The devastating earthquake that struck Myanmar nearly a week ago has claimed at least 3,145 lives, with search and rescue teams continuing to recover bodies from the rubble. The 7.7 magnitude quake, which had its epicenter near Mandalay, Myanmar's second-largest city, caused widespread destruction, including collapsed buildings, damaged roads, and destroyed bridges.  Humanitarian aid groups are working tirelessly to provide survivors with medical care and shelter, as thousands remain homeless and vulnerable to disease outbreaks. The United Nations estimates that over 17 million people have been affected by the disaster, with more than 9 million severely impacted.  In response to the crisis, Myanmar's military government has declared a temporary ceasefire to facilitate relief efforts. However, ongoing challenges, including communication blackouts and difficult-to-reach areas, have hindered the full assessment of the disaster's impact.  The coming days will be critical in d...

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Israel’s War Cabinet Deliberates: Responding to Iran’s Unprecedented Attack

 

Israel’s war cabinet convened urgently to address the unprecedented drone and missile attack launched by Iran. The situation has escalated tensions in the Middle East, leaving the world on edge.

On Saturday night, Iran unleashed a barrage of more than 300 drones and missiles toward Israeli territory. The Israeli military, with support from the US, UK, France, and other allies, successfully thwarted most of these attacks before they reached their targets. Fortunately, no casualties were reported, and the damage remained limited.

However, the gravity of the situation cannot be ignored. Israel’s military chief of staff, Lt Gen Herzi Halevi, asserted that Iran’s actions would not go unanswered. Speaking from the Nevatim air base in southern Israel, which sustained damage during the attack, Lt Gen Halevi emphasized that the launch of so many missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) would indeed prompt a response. Yet, the specifics of that response remain undisclosed.

Analysts speculate on Israel’s potential moves. They range from a limited cyberattack or targeted infrastructure strike—designed to send a clear signal without provoking a full-scale military response—to more extensive actions. The war cabinet’s deliberations aim to strike a delicate balance between asserting Israel’s security interests and avoiding further escalation.

World leaders have urged restraint. US President Joe Biden reaffirmed “America’s ironclad commitment to the security of Israel” but also emphasized the need for a ceasefire to bring home the 130 hostages still held in Gaza since October 7. The US, however, declined to participate in any counter-strike against Iran.

British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak echoed this sentiment, calling on “all sides” to show restraint. As tensions persist, the international community closely watches the unfolding situation in the Middle East.

Separately, violence continues in the occupied West Bank following the killing of an Israeli teenager, Benjamin Achimeir. His disappearance while tending to sheep near Ramallah has added to the region’s instability.

As Israel’s war cabinet weighs its response, the world holds its breath, hoping for de-escalation and a path toward peace.

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