The Philippines has witnessed a devastating ferry disaster that has claimed the lives of at least 15 people, with dozens still missing. The tragedy occurred when a passenger ferry, carrying 332 passengers and 27 crew members, capsized off the coast of Zamboanga, a port city in southern Philippines. According to the Philippine Coast Guard, the ferry was traveling from Zamboanga to the island of Jolo in southern Sulu when the incident occurred late at night.
As of now, at least 316 people have been rescued, while 28 are still missing and their search is ongoing. The incident has sent shockwaves across the country, with the government launching a massive rescue operation to save those trapped.
In other news, Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi has spoken with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman over the phone. A suspected plot to attack the Israeli embassy in Azerbaijan’s capital, Baku, was foiled. Iran’s currency, the rial, has hit an all-time low, trading at 15 million rials to the US dollar.
The Egyptian Dar al-Ifta has banned the use of artificial intelligence applications for interpreting the Quran. Former British Chancellor Sajid Javid has sparked controversy by opposing the entry of his parents into the UK. Australia is experiencing severe heatwaves, with temperatures soaring to almost 49 degrees Celsius, while most of the world is battling cold.
The UN’s Human Rights Council has expressed concerns over the new Afghan law, which could have severe consequences. A report by Arab media has revealed that Israeli forces have systematically demolished homes and agricultural land in the Gaza Strip, despite a ceasefire.
US President Donald Trump has increased tariffs on South Korean goods from 15% to 25%, citing the country’s failure to ratify a trade agreement with the US. Warnings of severe cold have been issued for nearly 20 million people in 44 US states, with emergency declarations made in 24 states.
Iranian-backed Hezbollah has warned that a US attack on Iran could lead to a full-scale war in the region. A 24-year-old woman in Bangalore, India, took her own life after facing harassment and demands for dowry. The US has accused the European Union of indirectly funding Russia’s war in Ukraine by signing a free trade agreement with India.
Mark Rutte, the European Union’s President, has warned lawmakers that Europe cannot rely on itself for security without the US. The Punjab police in India have arrested the parents of notorious gangster Goldy Brar, who is wanted in a 2024 extortion case.
In entertainment news, Bollywood actors Kriti Sanon and Diljit Dosanjh have faced backlash on social media for distorting educational facts in their film “Tere Ishq Mein.” Legendary Bollywood singer Arijit Singh has announced his retirement from playback singing.
A case has been registered against eight people, including two brothers and their wives, over a family dispute and allegations of assault.
