Iran Hits Israel with Major Missile Attack

Apr 14 2024

Iran initiated a large drone and missile attack against Israel late Saturday, in what appears to be a response to a recent Israeli strike on an Iranian facility in Syria. This significant escalation in the ongoing conflict between the two nations involved over 300 projectiles, including roughly 170 drones and more than 120 ballistic missiles aimed at Israel. The Israeli military reported that their advanced defense systems, with assistance from allies, successfully intercepted nearly all the incoming attacks.

This incident marks the first time Iran has directly launched such an extensive offensive from its territory against Israel, signalling a potentially dangerous shift in the Middle East tensions. Following the attacks, Iran’s ambassador to the United Nations hinted at even more decisive responses if Israel were to retaliate.

During a conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, U.S. President Joe Biden reassured of America’s steadfast support for Israel’s security but emphasised that the U.S. would not engage in offensive actions against Iran. The U.S. also played a crucial role in intercepting several of the attacks through its regional military assets.

Meanwhile, Israel’s emergency services reported no casualties directly from the strikes, though a young girl was injured by debris from an interceptor missile. Public safety measures were temporarily heightened in northern Israel, including the closure of airspace, which was later reopened.

As the situation unfolds, further international diplomatic efforts are expected, with President Biden planning discussions with G7 leaders to address the confrontation.

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Local Athlete Thanks Clean Malta & Imsida Council For Cleaning Bomb Shelter

Apr 13 2024

Local athlete Conrad Neil Gatt has posted yet another video on TikTok this time thanking organisation Clean Malta and the Imsida local council in their help to accomplish one of his projects which is to clean up a bomb shelter situated in Imsida.

He confirmed that the first phase of his project which was to install a gate in order to prevent people dumping rubbish in the shelter has been completed.

The second phase of the project which was actually cleaning the shelter from the multitude of rocks and garbage found inside it, could not have been completed without the help of both Clean Malta and the Imsida local council.

He hoped that more people or organisations will help him in this project especially when it comes to providing more light inside the shelter to further clean it up.

He revealed that him and his friend Matthew have been working on this project for 5 months and that they won’t stop until the shelter is free and back to the public.

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World’s oldest conjoined twins Lori and George Schappell die aged 62

Apr 13 2024

Lori and George Schappell, recognized as the world’s oldest conjoined twins, passed away at the age of 62. Born in 1961 in Pennsylvania, they shared partially fused skulls, vital blood vessels, and 30% of their brain, as documented by Guinness World Records.

Their demise occurred on April 7 at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, as announced in an obituary by Leibensperger Funeral Homes. The exact cause of death remains undisclosed.

Renowned for their unique journey, Lori and George made history not only as the world’s oldest living conjoined twins but also as the first same-sex conjoined twins to identify as different genders. George bravely came out as transgender in 2007.

Despite medical expectations suggesting a shorter lifespan, the Schappell twins surpassed predictions and led individual lives while being physically attached. George found success as a country singer, while Lori excelled as a trophy-winning tenpin bowler.

Their remarkable story attracted widespread attention, leading them to feature in numerous documentaries and even appear on ITV’s This Morning in September 2011, where they shared insights into their lives.

In their daily routine, Lori, who possessed full mobility, assisted George, who faced challenges due to spina bifida, by pushing him in a wheelchair-like stool. Despite their physical connection, they maintained separate interests and could pursue individual activities, including showering independently.

Reflecting on the prospect of separation in a 1997 documentary, George expressed a firm stance against it, stating, “Absolutely not. My theory is: why fix what is not broken?”

Lori and George are survived by their father, six siblings, several nieces and nephews, and a large extended family of friends, according to the obituaries. Their enduring legacy will be remembered by those who were touched by their extraordinary bond and resilience.

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Maltese Foreign Minister Ian Borg concludes visit to Moldova

Apr 13 2024

Malta’s Chairmanship of the OSCE, represented by Minister for Foreign and European Affairs and Trade Ian Borg, recently concluded a visit to Moldova, underscoring its commitment to facilitating a peaceful resolution of the Transdniestrian conflict. During the visit, Minister Borg engaged with key figures such as President Maia Sandu and Transdniestrian leader Vadim Krasnoselsky, emphasizing the OSCE’s pivotal role in the Transdniestrian Settlement Process.

Meetings with Moldovan Prime Minister Dorin Recean, Deputy Prime Minister for Reintegration Oleg Serebrian, and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs Mihai Popsoi highlighted Malta’s dedication to supporting practical solutions for all communities involved.

The visit to Moldova was part of a comprehensive three-day agenda for Malta’s OSCE Presidency, which also included visits to Serbia and Kosovo, involving over 30 engagements with various stakeholders. This year marks the 30th anniversary of the OSCE’s support to Moldova, reflecting a longstanding partnership in addressing regional challenges.

Minister Borg reiterated Malta’s support for open communication channels among stakeholders and emphasized the OSCE’s commitment to fostering a peaceful and lasting resolution based on Moldova’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, with a special status for Transdniestria within Moldova.

Furthermore, discussions with Liliana Palihovici, the Special Representative on Gender, highlighted the OSCE’s focus on promoting human rights and gender equality in Moldova.

Malta assumed the 12-month Chairmanship of the OSCE in January, under the theme “Strengthening Resilience, Enhancing Security,” marking its first-ever leadership role in the organization since November 2023.

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