Jerusalem wildfires force evacuations as Israel seeks international aid
Wildfires swept through the outskirts of Jerusalem on Wednesday, triggering evacuations, road closures, and an international call for help.
In Jerusalem, families of Israeli hostages commemorated the 500th day of their loved ones' captivity. They rallied outside the Hostages and Missing Families Forum tent, before marching to the Knesset, calling for the immediate release of all those still held.
Fears are growing among the families of Israeli hostages that the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas could collapse before the end of its first phase.
Marking the 500th day of their loved ones' captivity, they protested in Jerusalem, demanding the release of all hostages.
The emotional demonstration began outside the Hostages and Missing Families Forum tent before a march to the Knesset. "This is the morning of the 500th day that the hostages are still in Gaza, and today we are marching, we begin right here near Prime Minister Netanyahu's house and we are walking all the way to the Knesset, to the Israeli parliament, with a plight to make sure that this current deal continues until we see every single last hostage back home. Now, the fact that it's 500 days is unimaginable," said Udi Oren, a protester.
As of now, 19 Israeli and five Thai hostages have been released, but 73 people remain in captivity, with half of them declared dead in absentia by Israeli authorities.
The second phase of the ceasefire is intended to start negotiations for the release of the remaining hostages.
The Israeli security cabinet is scheduled to meet on Monday to discuss the next steps and the fate of those still held in Gaza.
India has fired a series of missiles into Pakistani-controlled territory, in what it has described as “Operation Sindoor”
For the first time in history, an American has been chosen to lead the Catholic Church, as Cardinal Robert Prevost is named pope.
Discover every major VE Day 80 event in Britain, 5‑8 May 2025—from London’s parade and fly‑past to street parties, concerts and museum exhibitions.
Chinese e-commerce platform Temu has announced it will no longer sell goods directly from China to U.S. customers, shifting instead to U.S.-based sellers amid the closure of a long-criticized customs loophole.
Cardinals from 70 nations have gathered in Vatican City to begin the historic conclave to elect the next pope, following the death of Pope Francis 17 days ago. This conclave is the most geographically diverse in Church history, showcasing Francis’ legacy of inclusivity.
European foreign ministers signed the Lviv Statement supporting a special tribunal and a U.S.-backed ceasefire, during a visit to Ukraine that included a memorial tribute to fallen soldiers.
White House economic adviser Kevin Hassett said on Friday that early signs ahead of this weekend’s U.S.-China trade talks in Switzerland appear positive, with both sides showing mutual respect and a constructive tone.
A new U.S.-supported initiative to deliver humanitarian aid into Gaza is expected to start operating shortly, U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee said Friday, though specific details are yet to be made public.
U.S. President Donald Trump signaled support for steep tariffs on Chinese imports, calling 80% levies “right” ahead of high-level trade talks in Geneva aimed at easing escalating tensions between Washington and Beijing.
France and Poland will sign a groundbreaking treaty on Friday to deepen cooperation on defence and energy, signaling a growing alignment among European nations.
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