Islamic State claims responsibility for attack on Catholic church in Istanbul

US Military Launches Airstrikes on ‘Iran-Aligned Sites’ in Syria, Day After Attack on Command Center

The US military has launched a series of airstrikes targeting sites in Syria associated with Iran-aligned groups, a day after an assault on America’s largest command centre in the region. The strikes, conducted by US Central Command, were in retaliation for recent attacks on US personnel stationed in Syria. Centcom emphasised that the action was a direct response to the escalating violence aimed at American forces, underscoring the US's commitment to protecting its troops and partners in the region. The airstrikes, which hit multiple sites believed to be linked to Iranian-backed militias, aim to degrade the ability of these groups to plan and execute future attacks against US forces. The US military presence in Syria, primarily focused on combating ISIS remnants, has faced increasing threats from Iran-aligned militias, complicating efforts to stabilise the region. Centcom's statement reinforced that such attacks on US forces would not be tolerated, sending a strong message to Tehran-backed militants. The escalation comes amid growing tensions in Syria, where Iran-backed groups maintain a significant presence, particularly in the east. #USMilitary #IranAlignedGroups #SyriaAirstrikes #MiddleEastTensions #USStrikes #Centcom #IranBackedMilitias #SyriaConflict #USForces #IranSyria #MilitaryRetaliation #USIranTensions #CommandCenterAttack #IranProxyWar #SyriaSecurity

VIDEO| Turkish Protestors Take Over German Ship Carrying Weapon for Israel Amid Gaza Crisis

Turkish activists stormed the German-flagged MV Kathrin at Istanbul's port, protesting its transport of 150,000 kg of explosives intended for Israeli military use. The vessel, previously rejected by multiple countries, had offloaded its cargo in Egypt. This protest follows similar actions at Istanbul's Ambarli Port and comes amid concerns over these weapons' potential use in Gaza. #Turkish #MVKathrin #Istanbul #IsraelGazawar #Gazawar #israelHamaswar #Erdogan #ADG #ProtestinTurkey #Ankara #ProGaza #IsraelHezbollah #IDFwar #Warlive

Meet a digital nomad thriving in İstanbul, the world's crossroads

Looking for a new expat destination? In this episode of Meet the Locals, a digital nomad shares her experiences of living and working in the vibrant, multicultural city of İstanbul, where ancient history and modern life intertwine seamlessly.

Pope's calls doctors who perform abortions 'hitmen,' sparking online furore

It was the second time in as many weeks that Francis has been asked about his views on abortion, which remains a hotly-contested issue for the Catholic Church

Pope Francis meets with students at Catholic University in Leuven

Pope Francis addressed concerns of both students and professors, including social inequality, the climate crisis and the role of women within the Catholic church.

Pope Francis condemns Catholic Church's 'shameful' abuse in Belgium

Earlier on Friday, Belgium's prime minister blasted the pontiff for the Catholic Church's horrific legacy, demanding "concrete steps" to come clean with the past and put victims' interests ahead of those of the institution.