(2026-05-18). Trump Is Making America Uninsured Again. scheerpost.com The GOP is heading into the midterms as the party that made health coverage out of reach for millions of Americans. Sasha Abramsky for Truthout This article was originally published by Truthout The GOP is heading into the midterms as the party that made health coverage out of reach for millions of Americans. In 2025, …
(2026-05-18). Israel kills 5 as Hezbollah condemns talks. tribune.com.pk 
Israeli strikes killed five people including two children in southern Lebanon on Sunday, the Lebanese health ministry said, despite a fragile ceasefire as Hezbollah called US-brokered talks between the two countries a "dead end". | The ministry published a "preliminary toll" for Israel's strikes on Sunday, with three people killed in the town of Tayr Felsay, including a child, and two killed in the town of Tayr Debba, including another child. | It said 11 people were wounded in those strikes and four more were wounded in strikes in two other southern towns. | Despite the ceasefire, Israel continues to strike w…
(2026-05-18). Israel launches strikes on southern Lebanon despite extending 'ceasefire'. aljazeera.com Al Jazeera's Obaida Hitto reports from Tyre in southern Lebanon on the latest Israeli strikes in the region.
(2026-05-18). Saturday 6/6: Shut it Down! How Tech Companies Power Genocide, Detention, and Deportation. indybay.org Online | www.eventbrite.com/e/shut-it-down-how-te……
(2026-05-18). Global Sumud Land Convoy Advances Overland To Break Siege On Gaza. popularresistance.org Zalitan— At a press conference held today in Zalitan, Libya, international human rights leaders and grassroots advocates united to declare that "Gaza is not alone" as the Global Sumud Land Convoy advances overland toward Rafah. Moving in tandem with the Global Sumud Flotilla at sea, the convoy's speakers addressed the critical urgency of the mission, the complicity and participation of global governments, and the growing, unstoppable civil society movement to confront israel's illegal siege and ongoing genocide in Gaza, and the 78 years of ethnic cleansing in occupied Palestine.
(2026-05-18). Friday 5/29: Free Benefit Show for HEALPALESTINE.ORG. indybay.org San Jose Peace and Justice Center (48 S 7th St., San Jose, CA, 95112)…
(2026-05-18). Statement On 78th Anniversary Of The Ongoing Nakba. popularresistance.org Seventy-eight years have passed since the Palestinian Nakba: the displacement, uprooting, massacres, Zionist settler-colonialism, and attempts to erase Palestine from history, geography, and consciousness. Yet our Palestinian people have proven, time and again, that the will of free peoples is stronger than all projects of genocide and oppression. | Despite massacres, siege, wars and displacement, the Palestinian people, together with all the free people of the world, continue to impose their just national cause upon the world through their steadfast popular will, refusing submission, surrender, or acceptance of…
(2026-05-18). UN special rapporteur urges Mediterranean states to protect Global Sumud Flotilla. tribune.com.pk 
UN Special Rapporteur on the Occupied Palestinian Territories Francesca Albanese urged Mediterranean countries on Monday to protect a Gaza-bound aid flotilla after activists reported unidentified vessels near their convoy in international waters. | "Hands off the Flotilla," Albanese wrote on X, calling on Mediterranean states to "protect the civilian vessels that are trying to break Israel's genocidal siege on Gaza." She also urged governments to "break the siege," "end complicity with Apartheid" and "make justice happen." | Hands off the Flotilla. | I urge Mediterranean states to protect the civilian vessels…
(2026-05-18). Is UAE Paying the Price for Its Alliance With Israel and the West? thinktank.pk The latest drone strike near the UAE's Barakah nuclear plant has once again exposed a dangerous geopolitical reality in the Middle East: the United Arab Emirates is increasingly facing strategic isolation inside the Arab world while simultaneously becoming a primary target in Iran's regional confrontation with the United States and Israel. The attack, which triggered …
(2026-05-18). Trump's stark warning: 'Clock ticking' for Iran. tribune.com.pk 
President Donald Trump on Sunday warned Iran that "there won't be anything left of them" if Tehran does not quickly agree to a peace deal with the United States, as tensions in the region escalated following a drone strike that sparked a fire near a nuclear power plant in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). | Washington has been locked in conflict with Tehran since major strikes on Iran began on February 28 and a ceasefire was later implemented in April. Since then, however, the US has struggled to make any progress toward ending a war that has shaken the Middle East and sent energy prices climbing. | Writing on h…
(2026-05-18). Over 800 artifacts from Mexico, Peru on display at Beijing exhibition. ecns.cn The Maize ∑Gold ∑Jaguar: A Grand Exhibition of Ancient Maya and Andean Civilizations opened at the Capital Museum in Beijing on Sunday.
(2026-05-18). Alexander Zevin: Trump's Gulf War. newleftreview.org Asymmetries of the US-Israeli assault on Iran, as an uneasy balance holds between Tehran's tourniquet on the Strait of Hormuz—and the world economy—and the enormous firepower of the aggressors, at the end of the first round.
(2026-05-18). Trump's China trip assessed, South Korea's AI problem: 5 weekend reads you missed. scmp.com We have put together stories from our coverage last weekend to help you stay informed about news across Asia and beyond. If you would like to see more of our reporting, please consider subscribing. | 1. Trump leaves China after much pomp and pageantry, but little to show for it | 2. Trump and his CEOs want China's business — but has Asia moved on? | 3. What do travellers need to know when Hong Kong airport's Terminal 2 opens? | 4. Reality deficit: how South Korea lost the plot on AI…
(2026-05-18). Trump Out, Putin In: What China's Diplomatic Timing Really Means. thinktank.pk Just days after U.S. President Donald Trump concluded his high-profile visit to Beijing, Chinese President Xi Jinping moved quickly to host Russian President Vladimir Putin for another strategic summit. The timing has triggered intense geopolitical debate across global capitals: was this merely diplomatic scheduling, or a carefully crafted signal from China to the West? The …
(2026-05-18). After Trump's China trip, White House plans new attack on Iran. wsws.org Just days after Trump's return from Beijing, American imperialism is making active preparations for a renewed onslaught against Iran.
(2026-05-18). Ghalibaf Named China Envoy: Are Iran-Beijing Ties Deepening? juancole.com Ann Arbor (Informed Comment) — On May 16, Iranian speaker of Parliament Mohammad Baqer Ghalibaf "The world stands at the cusp of a new order. | As President Xi said 'The transformation unseen in a century is accelerating across the globe,' and I emphasize that the Iranian nation's 70-day resistance has accelerated this transformation. | The future belongs to the Global South." | Ghalibaf was referring to a passage in the
(2026-05-18). Israel built 2 secret military bases in Iraq for operations against Iran: report. tribune.com.pk 
Israel built two covert military sites in Iraq's western desert to support operations against Iran, according to a report Sunday by the New York Times. | The newspaper, citing Iraqi and regional officials, said a newly disclosed site was one of two covert facilities used intermittently by Israel inside Iraq for more than a year. The officials said the sites were used for air support, refuelling, and medical services and later played a role during the 12-day war against Iran in June 2025. | One of the sites came to light after Iraqi shepherd Awad al-Shammari encountered unusual military activity near al-Nukhaib…
(2026-05-18). UAE ditches oil for AI to build Global South tech 'bridge'. scmp.com No country on Earth has adopted artificial intelligence faster than the United Arab Emirates — and the Middle Eastern cultural crossroad's ambitions to become an AI bridge to the Global South just got another major leg up with the delivery of the latest, cutting-edge US-designed chips. | But those ambitions are taking shape in a hostile environment. Amid the US-Israel war on Iran, Tehran's Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps has repeatedly taken aim at major Emirati data centres, developed in…
(2026-05-18). Iran War Economic Impact: Gulf States Count the Cost. juancole.com The Conversation) — The US and Israel's war on Iran has cast a long shadow over the Gulf. It has placed many of the economies that make up the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) regional grouping — Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Saudi Arabia — under substantial strain. | Since the war began in February, the World Bank has downgraded its 2026 GDP growth forecast for the reg…
(2026-05-18). After Offering 'No Tangible Concessions' in Iran Peace Talks, Trump Issues Latest Violent Threat. scheerpost.com Julia Conley for Common Dreams With the economic impact of the war on Iran linked to President Donald Trump's plummeting approval rating, the president issued his latest threat to destroy the Middle Eastern country Sunday as he demanded negotiators "get moving, FAST" to end the conflict the US and Israel began by choice in February. "For Iran, …
(2026-05-18). US weighs drone threat from Cuba: report. tribune.com.pk 
Cuba has obtained more than 300 military drones and recently began discussing plans to use them to attack the US base at Guantanamo Bay, US military vessels and possibly even Florida, Axios reported Sunday, citing classified intelligence. | The report comes as tensions simmer between Washington and Havana and amid speculation that the United States may be building an argument for military action against the communist-run island. | The development underscores the Trump administration's concern with the threat from Cuba because of developments in drone warfare and the presence of Iranian military advisers in Hav…
(2026-05-18). Pakistan pushes diplomacy amid renewed war fears. tribune.com.pk 
With the deadlock persisting and US President Donald Trump contemplating his next move, Pakistan's Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi on Sunday held important meetings in Tehran in what appears to be a last-ditch effort to salvage the deal and prevent renewed hostilities. | Naqvi, who is one of a handful of Pakistani officials involved in the intricate diplomatic efforts, landed in Tehran on Saturday on a previously unannounced visit. | He accompanied the Field Marshal, who travelled to the Iranian capital just days after the first round of talks between Iran and the US, held in Islamabad, failed to achieve any br…
(2026-05-18). Shehbaz hails Pakistan's role in US-Iran talks. tribune.com.pk 
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has described Pakistan's role in facilitating US-Iran dialogue as a "shining moment in our history", saying the evolving political-military coordination has helped improve Pakistan's international image. | He made these remarks during an interview with The Sunday Times. | "It's one of the shining moments in our history. Pakistan is acknowledged worldwide as an honest mediator and as a country in which international leadership has full trust and faith. It's our shining hour, and I feel a very proud Pakistani – as do 240 million Pakistanis," he was quoted as saying in the interview…
(2026-05-17). Iran urges intl response to US demands. ecns.cn Tehran has urged the international community to confront Washington's demands, while the United States warned Iran anew that it will have a "very bad time" if a peace deal is not reached soon.
(2026-05-18). Lula da Silva asked Donald Trump to lift U.S. blockade on Cuba. radiohc.cu Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva pointedly asked his counterpart Donald Trump to lift Washington's blockade on Cuba, according to an interview published on Sunday in The Washington Post. | Cuba "needs an opportunity," Lula said in his appeal to Trump to eliminate the unilateral blockade against the island. "What I know is that if the United States opens a negotiating table, not one based on impositions, Cuba will participate," he emphasized. | Lula reiterated to The Washington Post that, in his May 7th meeting with Trump at the White House, Trump assured him that he would not invade Cuba; However, th…
(2026-05-18). U.S. starves Cuba of fuel, then sends CIA chief with ultimatum. mronline.org 
The message was clear: comply or face the same fate.
(2026-05-18). Cuba warns that U.S. is fabricating false pretexts to launch military aggression. radiohc.cu Cuba has warned that the recent reports of alleged drones being prepared for attacks on targets at the U.S. Guantanamo Naval Base and United States territory are completely false and may be used as an excuse to launch pre-emptive military attacks on the island. | Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez said Sunday afternoon that "certain media outlets are playing along, peddling slander and leaking insinuations from the U.S. government itself." | In the same post, he insisted that "Cuba neither threatens nor wants war." He added that "without any legitimate pretext, the U.S. government is building, day after day,…
(2026-05-18). Trump Admin Claims of Cuban Plans for Drone Attacks Denounced as 'Ludicrous Pretext' for War. scheerpost.com "Like any country, Cuba has the right to defend itself against external aggression," said the Cuban embassy. "It is called self-defense, and it is protected by International Law and the UN Charter." Julia Conley for Common Dreams Cuban officials said the Trump administration is making "increasingly implausible accusations" against the country as it pushes to justify, "without any excuse, …
(2026-05-18). Growing bread queues in Gaza as Israel restricts fuel, flour imports. aljazeera.com Bread shortages deepen in Gaza as flour imports dwindle and bakeries struggle to meet rising demand amid fuel scarcity.
(2026-05-18). Nancy Fraser: Gaza as World Event. newleftreview.org The global reverberations of Israel's destruction of Gaza, understood as world event—an epochal turning point which serves to reveal the changing nature of the times. Philosophical reflections on the rise of a new-era McCarthyism in Germany and the US.
(2026-05-18). Two years on: upgrading the Red Cross Field Hospital in Rafah. icrc.org For families in Gaza, the Red Cross Field Hospital has been a lifeline. Two years on, this upgrade enables the lifeline to continue.
(2026-05-18). Gaza: Red Cross Field Hospital in Rafah undergoes overhaul to continue addressing urgent health-care needs. icrc.org
(2026-05-18). Thursday 5/21: Albany & El Cerrito for Palestine – Human Billboard for Gaza. indybay.org El Cerrito Plaza, San Pablo & Carlson…
(2026-05-18). The ICRC's response to affected populations and infrastructure following the events of January 2026 in Venezuela. icrc.org
(2026-05-18). Venezuela Deports Former Minister Alex Saab to the US. orinocotribune.com
(2026-05-17). Over half of Japanese oppose lifting ban on lethal weapons exports, polls suggest. ecns.cn More than half of respondents in recent Japanese opinion polls opposed the government's decision to lift restrictions on exports of lethal weapons.
(2026-05-17). Giant panda dies from infection at south China safari park, another stable after treatment. ecns.cn A giant panda at a safari park in southern China's Guangdong Province has passed away after a lung chlamydia infection triggered heart failure, while another panda receiving treatment remains in stable condition, the park said on Saturday.
(2026-05-18). New Development Bank Receives 'AAA' Credit Rating from China Chengxin International with Stable Outlook. infobrics.org The New Development Bank (NDB) is a multilateral development bank established by Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa (BRICS) with the purpose of mobilizing resources for infrastructure and sustainable development projects in emerging markets and developing countries…
(2026-05-18). Sebastian Veg: Three Vistas of Hong Kong. newleftreview.org Sebastian Veg on Ming-Sho Ho, Be Water; Ching Kwan Lee, Forever Hong Kong; Edmund Cheng and Samson Yuen, The Making of Leaderful Mobilization. Studies of Hong Kong's 2019 protests.
(2026-05-17). China's industrial output up 5.6% in first four months. ecns.cn Chinas value-added industrial output increased by 5.6 percent year on year in the first four months of 2026, official data showed on Monday.
(2026-05-18). Military jets' crew members safely eject after Idaho air-show collision. geo.tv 
Four crew members of military jets eject safely following a mid-air collision during the Idaho air show outside Mountain Home Air Force Base in Idaho, US May 17, 2026, in this screengrab obtained from a handout video. — Reuters Four crew members involved in a mid-air collision…
(2026-05-18). Uganda responds with emergency measures to Ebola outbreak. aljazeera.com Al Jazeera's Catherine Soi reports on the emergency measures implemented in Uganda in response to the Ebola outbreak.
(2026-05-17). 'Su Super League' elevates city brand. ecns.cn During Jiangsu Football City League in Yangzhou, team Yangzhou defeated team Zhenjiang 1-0 on Saturday.
(2026-05-18). Why Berlin Is Promoting Green Hydrogen in Japan. thinktank.pk As global competition over clean energy intensifies, Germany is increasingly turning toward "green hydrogen diplomacy" to secure its industrial future and reduce dependence on fossil fuels. The recent visit of Germany's transport minister to Japan to promote green hydrogen cooperation reflects far more than climate policy — it signals a strategic geopolitical and economic shift …
(2026-05-18). The Continued Importance of Experienced Expert Financial Advice. moguldom.com While it might seem like a 'good' problem to have, Sudden Wealth Syndrome is a real psychological condition with serious consequences. The disorder, which, as the name suggests, can cause behavioral issues when a person suddenly comes into a financial fortune, stems from the abrupt change in their circumstances. SWS was coined in the 1990s, …
(2026-05-18). US senator loses primary to Trump-backed challenger. tribune.com.pk 
A US senator from Louisiana bidding for a third term has lost his Republican primary, in the latest demonstration of US President Donald Trump's hold over his party. | Trump had targeted Bill Cassidy and endorsed an opponent in retaliation for the senator voting to impeach him five years ago. | With 99 percent of votes counted in Saturday's primary election, Cassidy was trailing in third place behind Trump-endorsed challenger Julia Letlow, a congresswoman, and state treasurer John Fleming, effectively shutting Cassidy out of a June 27 runoff. | "Congratulations to Congresswoman Julia Letlow on a fantastic race…
(2026-05-18). Soccer- Azmoun left out of preliminary Iran World Cup squad. newarab.com 
(2026-05-18). Britain faces weeks of leadership limbo in slow-motion coup against Starmer. aljazeera.com Keir Starmer battles to retain his authority, critics say he's a 'lame-duck' leader.
(2026-05-17). Hantavirus-hit cruise ship to arrive at Rotterdam port as final destination. ecns.cn The hantavirus-hit cruise ship MV Hondius was due to dock in Rotterdam on Monday morning for disinfection, with Dutch authorities preparing quarantine arrangements for the 25 crew ‚Äåmembers and two medical staff remaining on board.
(2026-05-18). PML-Q fields 11 G-B candidates. tribune.com.pk 
The PML-Q has issued party tickets to 11 candidates for the upcoming Gilgit-Baltistan Assembly elections, party spokesperson Mustafa Malik announced on Sunday. The candidates were finalised with the approval of parliamentary board chairman Chaudhry Salik Hussain. | Members of the parliamentary board, including Tariq Hassan, Dr Muhammad Amjad, Malik Sameen, Kamran Usmani, and Niaz Khaskheli also visited Gilgit and Skardu as part of the consultation process. | Provincial president Dilfraz Khan briefed the central leadership on election preparations in the G-B. | The party, which led the ruling coalition in the C…
(2026-05-18). The Struggle to Defend CSU Faculty & Students in the Upcoming CFA Contract Fight. indybay.org Thirty thousand faculty members of the CSU system are facing major attacks with layoffs of thousands of lecturers, use of AI to eliminate positions and the increasing ICE attacks. Kevin Wehr who is the CFA chief negotiator talks about the contract issues.
(2026-05-18). Sunday 5/31: Farmworkers Betrayed: Latinx Feminists speak out on César Chávez abuses ⚪ watch party. indybay.org New Valencia Hall, 747 Polk St., San Francisco…
(2026-05-18). Saturday 6/6: How Communities Across Turtle Island are Cutting Ties with Israeli Apartheid. indybay.org Online | www.mobilize.us/us-palestineactivism/eve……
(2026-05-18). Unite the New Zealand and Pacific working class against imperialism! wsws.org This speech was delivered by Tom Peters, a leader of the Socialist Equality Group in New Zealand, at the 2026 May Day Online Rally, organized by the WSWS and the ICFI.
(2026-05-18). WHO declares Ebola public health emergency as Trump cuts cripple global disease surveillance. wsws.org The WHO's emergency declaration exposes a global health system in collapse, with surveillance programs terminated, WHO defunded and the CDC barred from international coordination.
(2026-05-18). Israel's Organ Theft Scandal Exposes A Culture Of Desecration. orinocotribune.com By Robert Inlakesh — May 13, 2026 | On 25 January, Israeli President Isaac Herzog stood before a crowd celebrating what Tel Aviv claimed was a But Guinness listed only the
(2026-05-17). Tornado Emergency declared for Hebron, Nebraska. ecns.cn Tornado Emergency declared for Hebron, Nebraska. – reports…
(2026-05-17). 3 missing after Magnitude 5.2 earthquake hits Guangxi. ecns.cn A 5.2-magnitude earthquake jolted Liuzhou, a city in south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, early Monday, leaving three people missing and four injured, local authorities said.
(2026-05-18). Nawaz yet to fulfil Balochistan pledge. tribune.com.pk 
With almost a year having past, PML-N supremo Nawaz Sharif, who, as per his party, gave assurance to play a proactive role in resolution of Balochistan issues, remained completely missing from action, as per the members of the two delegations from the security-troubled province who had met former premier in Lahore, early last year. | The silence stands in contrast to expectations raised during high-level meetings. | Former prime minister Nawaz Sharif met in March with the Supreme Court Bar Association president and the Balochistan High Court Bar president, and later in April with a delegation of National Party…
(2026-05-18). Iran will turn Gulf of Oman into 'graveyard' for ships if US doesn't end blockade: military adviser. tribune.com.pk 
Iran vowed Sunday to confront the US over its naval blockade, with a top military adviser to the country's supreme leader warning that the Sea of Oman could become a "graveyard" for US ships if tensions continue to escalate. | "My advice to the US militarily is to back off before the Gulf of Oman turns into a graveyard for your ships. Otherwise, our understanding is that a naval blockade is an act of war, and responding to it is our natural right, Maj. Gen. Mohsen Rezaei, a member of Iran's Expediency Discernment Council, said in remarks carried Sunday by Iranian state television. | Rezaei added that Iran's re…
(2026-05-18). In chilling retort, army rebukesIndian threat. tribune.com.pk 
The Army on Sunday rebuked the Indian army chief for his threatening remarks, warning that such "geographic obliteration would certainly be mutual and comprehensive," in a renewed war of words between the two nuclear-armed neighbours just days after some voices from within India including RSS called for dialogue with Islamabad. | At an interactive session in New Delhi on Saturday, Indian Chief of Army Staff Gen Dwivedi was asked about how the Indian army will respond if the "circumstances that led to Operation Sindoor last year" arose again, the Press Trust of India reported. | The Indian army chief repeated N…
(2026-05-18). Saturday 6/6: Solarpunk Summer: Seed Craft. indybay.org Santa Cruz Public Libraries – Branciforte Branch, 230 Gault Street, Santa Cruz…
(2026-05-18). Vote "NO" on the AFSCME-University of California contract! Build rank-and-file committees to take control from the sellout bureaucrats! wsws.org To prevent another defeat, workers must begin independently organizing, plan a resumption of the strike and the struggle for their non-negotiable demands, not what AFSCME officials dictate they must accept.
(2026-05-18). Sunday Science: How an 'Impossible' Idea Led to a Pancreatic Cancer Breakthrough. portside.org Sunday Science: How an 'Impossible' Idea Led to a Pancreatic Cancer Breakthrough |
(2026-05-18). The fall of Romanian government: The "Bolojan plan" scrapped. unitedworldint.com Interview with Miruna Pandele, Deputy Chair of the Romanian Socialist Party By Yasin Okyay On May 6, the Romanian government collapsed following the passage of a no-confidence motion jointly introduced by social democrats and nationalists. The motion by the Social Democratic Party (PSD) and the Alliance for the Union of Romanians (AUR), gained 281 yes …
(2026-05-18). More Sweeps of Survival Gear & Disabled Sidewalk Sleepers at Coral St. indybay.org Expanded Speech to the Community at Santa Cruz City Council Tuesday afternoon on May 12, 2026…
(2026-05-18). Video: NAKED woman beaten up by man in Beirut Corniche. albawaba.com ALBAWABA – A woman was seen naked in Beirut Corniche, the Raouche area, in Lebanon, shocking all passersby on Sunday.A video circulating online shows a completely naked female in the Raouche area of Beirut, before she was attacked by a man. A passerby immediately intervened, prevented the assault and gave the woman a shawl to cover up.However, till now, there is no information or details about the reason for this strange incident.Many allegedly said that the woman is suffering from a mental health crisis and that she is unaware of what she did.ÿπŸÜÿ…
(2026-05-17). Dassault Systemes to strengthen AI ecosystem building in China. ecns.cn French industrial software company Dassault Systemes is looking to strengthen its industrial artificial intelligence ecosystem in China, as the country steps up ongoing efforts to foster new quality productive forces and advance the integration of AI with manufacturing, its chief executive said.
(2026-05-17). Shanghai sets target to build intl shipping hub. ecns.cn As Shanghai moves from scale expansion to capacity enhancement in building an international shipping center during the 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-30) period, demand for talent with cross-disciplinary expertise is rising, according to experts.
(2026-05-18). From Mutual Suspicion to Political Embrace: How the U.S. Learned To Stop Worrying and Love Pakistan. portside.org From Mutual Suspicion to Political Embrace: How the U.S. Learned To Stop Worrying and Love Pakistan |
(2026-05-18). Africa-France Summit and the people's counter-summit. mronline.org 
The Pan-African summit against imperialism.
(2026-05-18). Richard Overy: Rethinking The Second World War. newleftreview.org Interviewed by Tom Stevenson, one of Britain's leading historians discusses the development of his understanding of the war as a terminal clash between imperial-colonial systems, built on close analysis of its interrelated military, political and economic dimensions.
(2026-05-18). Australia: Elderly residents of Melbourne apartment complex face forced eviction. wsws.org The threat to Oasis residents takes place amid a housing crisis and the Victorian Labor government's program to evict 10,000 people from the city's 44 public housing towers.
(2026-05-18). Homeless Persons Legal Assistance Project Returns. indybay.org Court Navigation and Local Ordinance Assistance for the Houseless Community…
(2026-05-18). Thursday 5/21: AI, Teamsters Torture, Labor & Human Rights: WorkWeek Panel. indybay.org Register in advance for this meeting: | us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/ds7n0QN……
(2026-05-18). South Sudan: The country's humanitarian needs continue to rise. icrc.org Joint SSRC-IFRC-ICRC News Release…
(2026-05-18). Sinner wins Italian Open to complete career Golden Masters. aljazeera.com The first Italian to win the title in 50 years enters the French Open as favourite with Alcaraz out injured.
(2026-05-17). AI reshaping how people work, create, collaborate. ecns.cn Behind a popcorn machine at AgiBot's data collection center in Shanghai, a humanoid robot packs freshly popped popcorn into paper cups while Chen Xin, a data collector with a virtual reality headset around his neck and a controller in hand, patiently guides its movements.
(2026-05-17). Sino-Russia energy cooperation forges strategic resilience for a new era. ecns.cn Amid continued volatility in global energy markets.China and Russia are accelerating the structural deepening of their energy partnership — anchored by stable fossil-fuel supply chains while simultaneously breaking ground in next-generation clean-energy corridors.
(2026-05-18). The Dismantling of Black Studies. portside.org The Dismantling of Black Studies |
(2026-05-18). Drop in temperature forecasted for SA. sanews.gov.za Drop in temperature forecasted for SA | The South African Weather Service (SAWS) says a cut-off, low-pressure system is expected to influence the central and western interior of South Africa from Tuesday into Wednesday. | "As the system develops over the interior, it is expected to result in a noticeable drop in daytime temperatures, accompanied by isolated to scattered showers and thundershowers across several provinces," the weather service said. | Residents are advised to prepare for cooler conditions, cloudy skies, windy periods, and rain. | Meanwhile, SAWS issued a yellow level 2 warning for damaging coasta…
(2026-05-18). Iran war hits global companies with $25 billion bill. newarab.com 
A review of corporate statements from companies listed in the United States, Europe and Asia since the start of the conflict offers a sobering look at the fallout. Businesses are grappling with soaring energy prices, fractured supply chains and trade routes severed by Iran's grip on the At l…
(2026-05-18). France reopens Epstein case as new victims speak out. albawaba.com ALBAWABA – French authorities have revived momentum in their probe into Jeffrey Epstein after over 10 new complainants claimed they were victims of the late financier.Paris prosecutor Laure Beccuau said that the new testimony were just filed to French prosecutors, bringing the total number of complainants in the case to about 20.The expanded probe is looking into potential networks of human trafficking that were linked to Epstein's activities in France and seeking to identify anyone who may have helped facilitate or cover up his alleged crimes.French detectives are sifting through communications logs, address boo…
(2026-05-17). Two dead, one missing after 5.2-magnitude quake strikes Guangxi. ecns.cn Two people were confirmed dead and one person remains missing after a magnitude-5.2 earthquake jolted Liunan district in Liuzhou, Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region, early Monday, according to the local earthquake relief headquarters.
(2026-05-18). BRICS Countries' Technological Development Potential Estimated at $406 Billion Annually. infobrics.org The Russian Ministry of Finance indicated that the BRICS countries possess significant potential for developing technological sovereignty, with the expansion of the technology development financing market in the group estimated at approximately $406 billion annually…
(2026-05-18). Saturday 5/16: A Community Conversation: How Fascism Is Controlling Us and the World. indybay.org Black & Brown Social Club | 474 Valencia St. | San Francisco…
(2026-05-18). Whose belts will be tightened? mronline.org 
The foreign exchange market and the share market know what officialdom and the media prefer not to mention: that India's foreign exchange reserves are not the accumulated surpluses from trade, i.e., earned from exporting more goods and services than we import.
(2026-05-18). Sunday 6/28: Solar Punk Pen Pals: Crafting Hopeful Futures Together. indybay.org Santa Cruz Public Libraries – Downtown Branch, 224 Church St, Santa Cruz…
(2026-05-18). Trump-backed "Rededicate 250" rally: Christian nationalism in the service of dictatorship. wsws.org Backed by the Trump administration and major corporations, Rededicate 250 fused Christian nationalism, historical falsification and authoritarian politics.
(2026-05-18). Busy week ahead for Budget Vote debates. sanews.gov.za Busy week ahead for Budget Vote debates | Parliament's programme for the week will be dominated by Budget Vote debates, oversight meetings and a high-level colloquium marking 30 years of South Africa's democratic Constitution and Africa Day celebrations. | The National Assembly (NA) and the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) are scheduled to hold a series of hybrid sittings and committee meetings as lawmakers scrutinise government spending plans and departmental performance for the 2026/27 financial year. | A major highlight of the week will be Deputy President Paul Mashatile's appearance before the National As…
(2026-05-18). Wednesday 6/10: Oakland Privacy: Fighting Against the Surveillance State. indybay.org Please email contact@oaklandprivacy.org a few days before the meeting to get up-to-date location information or obtain Zoom meeting access info.
(2026-05-18). Judicial services made more accessible to nation's persons with disabilities. ecns.cn Judicial services have been made more accessible to people with disabilities in recent years, thanks to intensified collaboration between courts and disabled persons' federations.
(2026-05-18). Trump appears poised to restart the Iran war. responsiblestatecraft.org The Middle East is once again teetering on the brink as Trump appears poised to reignite war with Iran. Press
(2026-05-18). 'Staggering' Iran toll drives up global executions: Amnesty. newarab.com 
Amnesty said it had confirmed the executions of at least 2,707 people globally in 2025. Of these cases, 2,159 were in Iran, a figure more than double that of 2024, Amnesty said. | But the UK-based rights group said that, as in previous years, its total "does not include the thousands of executions" that it believed were carried ou…
(2026-05-18). Three killed in Wana Bazaar blast in Lower South Waziristan. tribune.com.pk 
(2026-05-18). Science magazine investigates FBI's witch-hunt against Chinese researchers. wsws.org Science magazine, one of the most prestigious peer-reviewed publications in the world, has published an investigative report titled "Researching While Chinese," detailing the Department of Justice (DOJ) persecution of Chinese researchers at the University of Michigan and Indiana University.
(2026-05-18). Slashing climate, weather and ocean research to pay for 32 hours of Iran war. mronline.org 
The recently proposed budget from the Trump administration includes a $1.6 billion cut to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
(2026-05-18). Government extends deadline for comments on draft Capital Flow Management Regulations. sanews.gov.za Government extends deadline for comments on draft Capital Flow Management Regulations | National Treasury and the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) have extended the deadline for public comments on the draft Capital Flow Management Regulations, 2026, to the end of June. | In a joint statement, the two institutions said the extension followed requests from stakeholders for more time to review the draft regulations and provide input. | The statement noted that public concerns and media attention have largely focused on the treatment, possession and trade of crypto assets, particularly possible restrictions on cros…
(2026-05-18). The "Green Voter Guide" , published by the Green Party of Alameda County. indybay.org The Green Party of Alameda County's 12-page voter guide is here: acgreens.wordpress.com/wp-content/upload……
(2026-05-17). AI tools enable seniors to 'triage at home'. ecns.cn AI tools enable seniors totriage at home.A senior woman participates in setting up and testing an elderly care robot that can perform basic health checkups, monitor health status and offer companionship at a welfare center in Hangzhou, Zhejiang province, in March last year.
(2026-05-17). U.S. state keen to tap into China's market. ecns.cn The U.S. state of Oregon, which is keen to strengthen its economic partnership with China, hosted a trade delegation from the Inner Mongolia autonomous region last week to explore business opportunities.
(2026-05-18). Nexteer auto parts workers in Saginaw force UAW to schedule strike vote after rejecting two sellout contracts. wsws.org A Nexteer strike could quickly shut down production at General Motors, Ford and Stellantis and ignite a wave of strikes at US auto parts companies. This is precisely what the UAW bureaucrats are desperate to prevent.
(2026-05-18). Why Capitalism's Origins Matter. portside.org Why Capitalism's Origins Matter |
(2026-05-18). Moment of collision between two Navy jets at Idaho air show. aljazeera.com Two US Navy jets collided during an air show at Mountain Home AFB.
(2026-05-18). Saturday 5/30: Celebration of Life – A Fundraiser for Palestine. indybay.org SubRosa Community Space, 703 Pacific Ave, Santa Cruz…
(2026-05-18). Canadian imperialism: predator, not prey, in global war. wsws.org This speech was delivered by Keith Jones, Socialist Equality Party (Canada) national secretary, at the 2026 May Day Online Rally, organized by the WSWS and the ICFI.
(2026-05-18). Nairobi Regional Delegation Facts & Figures 2025. icrc.org January – December 2025…
(2026-05-18). How ISWAP and Boko Haram are reshaping the Lake Chad Basin. aljazeera.com Communities in the Lake Chad Basin face rising violence amid economic hardship and weak governance.
(2026-05-18). When are Hajj and Eid al-Adha 2026? A visual guide to the Muslim pilgrimage. aljazeera.com Nearly 2 million Muslims will embark on the annual Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca, which begins on May 25.
(2026-05-17). Magnitude 5.2 earthquake strikes Guangxi. ecns.cn A magnitude 5.2 earthquake jolted Liunan district in Liuzhou, Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region early Monday, leaving three people missing and four injured with no life-threatening conditions, local disaster relief authorities confirmed.
(2026-05-18). Thomas Meaney: Western Promises. newleftreview.org Thomas Meaney on Fritz Bartel, The Triumph of Broken Promises. The Cold War's end recast as upshot of a contest to enforce capital's discipline, East and West.
(2026-05-18). Nathan Sperber: Beyond Neoliberalism? newleftreview.org Investigating the persistence—or retreat—of capital's great prog ≠rammatic offensive, along its many fronts: ideological struggle, policy prescription, macro-regulation of economic life, class direction. A multi-dimensional analysis of an uneven condition.
(2026-05-18). The dangerous allure of a post-Netanyahu Israel. responsiblestatecraft.org Israel is officially entering
(2026-05-18). Zilhajj moon sighted: KSA announces Hajj on 26th. tribune.com.pk 
Saudi Arabia's Supreme Court on Sunday announced the beginning of the lunar month of Zilhajj, stating that that pilgrims performing Hajj will stand at Arafat on Tuesday, May 26 while Eidul Azha will begin on Wednesday, May 27. | The Day of Arafat is considered the pinnacle of the annual Hajj pilgrimage, during which millions of Muslims gather at Mount Arafat near the holy city of Makkah for prayer and reflection. | Eidul Azha is marked by communal prayers, family gatherings, and the ritual sacrifice of livestock, with meat traditionally distributed among relatives, friends, and those in need. | The announcemen…
(2026-05-18). Sherpa climbs Everest 32nd time. tribune.com.pk 
A renowned Nepali Sherpa guide scaled Mount Everest for the 32nd time on Sunday, an official said, smashing his own record set last year. | Kami Rita Sherpa, 56, reached the 8,849-metre (29,032 ?foot) peak – the highest in the world – while guiding clients from the 14 Peaks Expedition company. | Nepal's Department of Tourism congratulated the Sherpa for achieving the "historic milestone" and for his contributions to promoting mountain tourism. | He reached the summit at 10: 12 a.m. (0427 GMT) on Sunday, it said in a statement adding that a Sherpa woman, Lakhpa, 52, had made her 11th ascent to the peak, the most…
(2026-05-18). Trump envoy arrives for Greenland visit. tribune.com.pk 
US President Donald Trump's special envoy to Greenland landed in Nuuk on Sunday for a visit of several days to the autonomous Danish territory, local media reported. | Governor of Louisiana Jeff Landry arrived for his first visit in the role and is due to take part in an economic forum in the Greenlandic capital on Tuesday and Wednesday. | Organised by the employers organisation Gronlands Erhverv, the Future Greenland event will bring together investors, political and business leaders to try to encourage investment there. | Landry's visit comes after international tension over Trump's repeated claims to the te…
(2026-05-18). ICC Issues Arrest Warrants For Five Additional Senior Israeli Officials. scheerpost.com By News Desk, The Cradle. The Hague-based court previously issued warrants for the arrest of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former War Minister Yoav Gallant. The International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued secret arrest warrants for three Israeli politicians and two military officials, Haaretz reported on 17 May, citing diplomatic sources. The timing of their issuance is unknown. …
(2026-05-18). WHO declares Ebola outbreak in Congo, Uganda. tribune.com.pk 
An Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda has been declared a public ?health emergency of international concern by the World Health Organisation, after 80 suspected deaths. | The WHO said the outbreak, caused by the Bundibugyo virus, does not meet the criteria of a pandemic emergency but that countries sharing land borders with the DRC are at high risk of further spread. | On Sunday, the U.N. health agency said in a statement, that 80 suspected deaths, eight laboratory-confirmed cases and 246 suspected cases had been reported as of Saturday in the DRC's Ituri province across at least thr…
(2026-05-18). Marcus Verhagen: The Art of Counter-Remembrance. newleftreview.org In 2017, a fire killed 72 residents of Grenfell Tower in West London, exposing a bleak background of neglect. How can art grapple with such an event? Contrasting modes of aesthetic response explored in the works of Chris Ofili, Steve McQueen and Forensic Architecture.
(2026-05-18). Flight diverted after man bites attendant. tribune.com.pk 
Australia's Qantas was forced to divert a flight bound for the United States over a disruptive passenger, with local media reporting the man bit a flight attendant. | The flight from Melbourne was headed to Dallas on Friday when it was forced to make a stop in Papeete, the capital of French Polynesia, due to a disruptive passenger. | The man was restrained by fellow passengers, with local media including national broadcaster ABC reporting he bit a member of Qantas staff. | The man was met by local authorities on arrival and has been slapped with a no-fly ban on all Qantas planes.
(2026-05-18). Red Dawn over China: An extended exercise in anti-communist propaganda. wsws.org Frank Dikà∂tter's new book is a fundamentally flawed work that makes little pretence of academic objectivity or intellectual honesty.
(2026-05-17). Investing more in children is the right thing to do. ecns.cn The world has demonstrated that it is possible to make progress for children on an extraordinary scale. Child mortality was reduced by around 50 percent in two decades, based largely on a simple recipe with three ingredients. First, a safe start. One in four children is now born in a UNICEF-supported health clinic. Second, immunization.
(2026-05-18). Palestinian women describe arrest, abuse & filth in Damon Prison. newarab.com 
After months in detention at "My first breath outside felt like I was being born again," she told The New Arab, describing the confusion that followed her release. | "It wasn't just freedom. It was confusion. I kept asking myself if I was really out or if it was another moment they would ta…
(2026-05-18). China's Solar Industry Redesigned Itself Around U.S. Forced Labor Law. wattsupwiththat.com Continuing to look away is a choice, and the people living inside this system will bear the consequences long after the next procurement cycle closes.
(2026-05-18). Saturday 6/27: SF Trans Ally Rally: The People's March & Rally for Trans Rights. indybay.org San Francisco: Embarcadero Plaza at Steuart and Embarcadero, then march to rally at Civic Center Plaza. | This march & rally welcomes all people to join in standing up for Trans Rights.
(2026-05-18). Criminal charges filed against ship operators in Baltimore's Key Bridge collapse that killed six workers. wsws.org The Department of Justice has charged the ship operator and a supervisor with criminal behavior connected to the Key Bridge collapse, but avoided any scrutiny of decades of neglect.
(2026-05-18). West Bank Palestinians see Nakba repeating under Israeli raids. newarab.com 
In refugee camps across the West Bank, the Today, Palestine's foundational tragedy stirs anxious thoughts of history repeating itself, as aggressive Israeli raids across the occupied territory mark a renewed displacement crisis that echoes the horrors of the Nakba. | In conversations at nine camps, Palestinians see the 78-year-old catastrophe not as history, but as a warning. | Amina Kha…
(2026-05-18). Activists to Protest at Petco and Demand the End of All Animal Sales. indybay.org Following SF Animal Commission's vote to recommend a ban on the retail sale of animals, advocates will rally in San Francisco to bring attention to cruelty of the exotic pet trade…
(2026-05-17). Driving development with new quality productive forces. ecns.cn China Dailys Business Insight section has launched a column devoted to an in-depth interpretation of Xi Jinpings economic thought, with this article serving as the debut piece of the new series.
(2026-05-18). Fiscal, monetary tools to boost consumption. ecns.cn China is ramping up coordination between fiscal and monetary tools to further unleash consumption potential and energize private investment, in a bid to fuel a broad expansion in domestic demand, officials and business executives said.
(2026-05-18). Battery innovations take center stage at Shenzhen CIBF 2026. ecns.cn The 18th China International Battery Fair (CIBF 2026) was held at the Shenzhen World Exhibition & Convention Center under the theme "Connecting the World, Empowering Green, and Driving the Future" in Guangdong Province last week.
(2026-05-17). China's fixed-asset investment down 1.6 pct in first 4 months. ecns.cn China's fixed-asset investment dropped 1.6 percent year on year in the first four months of 2026, official data showed on Monday.
(2026-05-18). Why Glass Rock Could Be A Great Choice For Spirit Bottle Manufacturing. moguldom.com When it comes to launching a new spirit, the liquid in the bottle plays a huge role in the success — you can't have a successful spirit if it doesn't taste good! But alongside this, you need to have a good bottle to sell the liquid in. When you go to the shops, the best …
(2026-05-18). How the failure of Trump's Caucasus corridor helped spare Armenia. responsiblestatecraft.org Among the many unintended consequences of President Donald Trump's disastrous decision to launch a war on Iran is the
(2026-05-18). World calls for inclusive, resilient cities. sanews.gov.za World calls for inclusive, resilient cities | The 13th session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13) opened in Baku with a strong call for more inclusive, resilient and people-centred approaches to urban development, as global housing shortages and climate pressures intensify. | Convened by UN-Habitat, the forum has brought together governments, civil society organisations, local authorities, businesses, women's groups and youth advocates to address a wide range of urban challenges. | Key issues under discussion include housing rights, gender equality, climate resilience, governance and private-sector innovation. | Ou…
(2026-05-18). Eskom reaches one year of no load shedding. sanews.gov.za Eskom reaches one year of no load shedding | Eskom has officially surpassed 365 days without implementing load shedding. | The power utility last achieved the milestone nearly eight years ago in September 2018. | "This moment has been three years in the making since the inception of the generation recovery plan. Eskom's employees have again delivered using their deep technical and institutional capability built over decades of public investment that remains a critical part of our national capacity, which will now increasingly focus on delivering cleaner sources of energy. | "The Eskom board and I are proud of the…
(2026-05-18). UK police detail rally arrests. tribune.com.pk 
London police said Sunday officers arrested 20 people the previous day at a march organised by far-right activist Tommy Robinson and 12 people at a counter-demonstration fused with a pro-Palestinian protest. | The city's Metropolitan Police ⚪ which had already disclosed making 43 arrests Saturday after tens of thousands people attended the duelling events ⚪ added 11 of those detained were either non-affiliated or their links was unconfirmed. | The force had mounted its biggest operation in years to manage both Robinson's "Unite the Kingdom" march and the anti-fascism rally organised by the Stand Up to Racism…
(2026-05-18). Saturday 5/16: Union Democracy, Worker Rights & The IBT: WorkWeek Panel. indybay.org Zoom Registration | us02web.zoom.us/j/84722091993?pwd=CoyU1e… | /us02web.zoom.us/launch/jc/84722091993…
(2026-05-18). International experts hail new focus on constructive stability. ecns.cn The meeting between the leaders of China and the United States in Beijing last week marked another important round of high-level strategic communication between the two countries at a pivotal moment in history.
(2026-05-18). Long Island Rail Road workers strike; Mamdani supports scabbing operations. wsws.org The strike is a major political confrontation in the center of world finance, pitting workers against Wall Street and its political agents, in the first place the Democratic Party.
(2026-05-18). Friday 5/22: To Eat Alone is to Die Alone: An Artist Talk with Vivien Sansour. indybay.org Institute of the Arts and Sciences, 100 Panetta Avenue, Santa Cruz…
(2026-05-18). Nukes cornerstone of Russia's national security: Kremlin. tribune.com.pk 
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said on Sunday that nuclear weapons were the "cornerstone" of Russia's national security, according to Russian media outlet Vesti. | Peskov said Russia's nuclear arsenal protected the country from threats to its existence. | "A nuclear power cannot be threatened; its existence cannot be threatened. This is what gives us the opportunity to be confident in this, and this is the basis of nuclear deterrence," he said. | Commenting on relations with Europe, Peskov said growing discussion within the EU about possible negotiations with Russia marked a "major shift" and is in Moscow'
(2026-05-18). NewsGuild Edsource Reporters Go On UFLP Strike For Living Wages & A Contract. indybay.org NewsGuild Edsource reporters went on a 1 day UFLP strike to fight for living wages and a contract.
(2026-05-18). As Support For Israel Declines, 'Special Relationship 2.0' Is Starting To Rise. popularresistance.org This month, Israel and the United States are expected to begin negotiations on a new memorandum of understanding (MOU) that would outline the United States' plans to support Israel after the current MOU expires in 2028. Chances are this will look like a very different conversation than in the past. | In recent months, there's been a lot of noise around the idea of ending U.S. military aid to Israel. It's an idea that has long been pursued by Palestine solidarity activists and, in the past, has also been floated by the Israeli right and their fellow travelers, who thought the aid wasn't worth restricting Israel's…
(2026-05-18). Saturday 5/16: Free virtual screening of the documentary film "The Balfour Declaration" indybay.org Zoom | us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_XzUA……
(2026-05-18). Watsons pop-up indicates island upgrade. ecns.cn What if you could step into a 19th-century pharmacy and find today's most popular skincare and sparkling water on the shelf? That is an experience Watsons is re-creating at its new pop-up store on Shamian Island in Guangzhou, Guangdong province, near one of its earliest locations from about two centuries ago.
(2026-05-17). China-Russia Expo seen as key platform. ecns.cn President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin have each sent a congratulatory letter to the 10th China-Russia Expo ahead of the Russian leader's upcoming state visit to China.
(2026-05-18). Saturday 5/23: In Conversation: All This Safety is Killing Us. indybay.org Institute of the Arts and Sciences, 100 Panetta Avenue, Santa Cruz…
(2026-05-17). Chinese-built Astana light rail begins operations. ecns.cn Kazakhstan on Saturday officially launches the Astana light rail transit system, constructed by a Chinese company. It is the first urban light rail line in Central Asia.
(2026-05-18). SADC Ministers to meet over food security and blue economy. sanews.gov.za SADC Ministers to meet over food security and blue economy | Ministers responsible for agriculture, food security, fisheries and aquaculture from across Southern Africa will gather in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, later this month, for high-level talks focused on regional food systems, climate resilience and the blue economy. | The meeting, convened by the Southern African Development Community (SADC), is scheduled for 29 May 2026 and is expected to address pressing challenges affecting food production, livestock health and fisheries development across the region. | Minister of Agriculture, John Steenhuisen, will cha…
(2026-05-18). Former UK Health Secretary Wes Streeting announces bid to replace Starmer. aljazeera.com Former UK Health Secretary Wes Streeting has announced he will run against Prime Minister Keir Starmer as Labour leader…
(2026-05-18). Two US fighter jets collide mid air, explode during Idaho air show, crew ejects safely. ptcnews.tv PTC News Desk: Two US fighter jets collided in mid-air during an air show at Mountain Home Air Force Base in Idaho on Sunday, prompting an immediate lockdown of the base. The incident took place durin | Two US fighter jets collide mid air, explode during Idaho air show, crew ejects safely…
(2026-05-17). China's property investment declines in first four months. ecns.cn China's investment in property development decreased in the first four months of 2026, down 13.7 percent year on year, the National Bureau of Statistics said Monday.
(2026-05-17). Trade talks achieve positive outcomes. ecns.cn The outcomes achieved by China and the United States in their latest round of economic and trade consultations could help bring more certainty and confidence to global industrial and supply chains, and may contribute to stabilizing the world economy amid rising geopolitical and trade uncertainties, market observers and executives said.
(2026-05-18). EThekwini assures water safety amid taste and odour concerns. sanews.gov.za EThekwini assures water safety amid taste and odour concerns | The eThekwini Municipality says it is working closely with bulk supplier uMngeni-uThukela Water (UUW) to address elevated levels of 2-methylisoborneol (MIB) affecting water supplied through the Wiggins Water Treatment Works. | The municipality confirmed that while some residents may notice changes in the taste and odour of their water, it remains safe for human consumption and continues to meet all required quality and safety standards. | In a statement issued over the weekend, the municipality said the issue is linked to increased concentrations of…
(2026-05-18). 5.2-magnitude quake kills two in south China. geo.tv 
Rescue workers walk past a damaged building following an earthquake at Taiyang village in Liuzhou, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China May 18, 2026. — Reuters Quake hit Guangxi's Liuzhou city at 12.21am: report. State broadcaster CCTV identifies deceased as couple….
(2026-05-18). Pakistan wins Hague ruling in IWT row. tribune.com.pk 
In a landmark ruling, the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) in The Hague delivered a supplemental award upholding Pakistan's position regarding maximum pondage limits for Indian hydroelectric projects on the western rivers. | Under the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), signed by Pakistan and India in 1960 with the World Bank as a signatory and facilitator, the three eastern rivers of the Indus system – the Ravi, Beas, and Sutlej – were allocated to India, while the three western rivers – the Indus, Jhelum, and Chenab – were allocated primarily to Pakistan. | Pondage refers to the temporary storage of water in a re…
(2026-05-18). Another constitutional package? tribune.com.pk 
It was in September 2024 when speculation, triggered by a series of leaks, began circulating about the federal government planning the 26th Constitutional Amendment. As is often the case, the government publicly dismissed those reports as mere conjecture, while official circles firmly denied that any such move was under consideration. | Yet, just a few weeks later, not only was the plan publicly acknowledged, but the amendment was also swiftly passed by parliament. | Now, once again, similar murmurs are doing the rounds suggesting that the federal government is contemplating another constitutional amendment.
(2026-05-17). China's industrial output up 5.6 pct in first four months. ecns.cn China's value-added industrial output increased by 5.6 percent year on year in the first four months of 2026, official data showed on Monday.
(2026-05-18). Loic Wacquant: Against Abolitionism. newleftreview.org A sociological critique of calls for the wholesale elimination of police, courts and prisons, arguing instead for a radical 'penal minimalism'—a better-funded system, with fewer suspects funnelled into it, and imprisonment a punishment of last resort.
(2026-05-18). South Africa advances sustainable urbanisation, despite mounting infrastructure pressures. sanews.gov.za South Africa advances sustainable urbanisation, despite mounting infrastructure pressures | South Africa is making measurable progress in advancing sustainable urbanisation, despite the dual challenge of expanding infrastructure to meet growing population demands, while maintaining ageing systems under financial strain. | Human Settlements Minister Thembi Simelane made the remarks at the 13th session of the World Urban Forum (WUF13) under the Ministerial Meeting on the New Urban Agenda, that is underway in Baku in the Republic of Azerbaijan. | Held under the theme: "Housing the world: Safe and resilient cities an…
(2026-05-18). Trump's Iranian Nightmare. popularresistance.org America's newest quagmire in the Middle East is like its old quagmires in the Middle East. It is based, as were the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq, on a gross misreading of our adversaries, a catastrophic failure to understand the limits of imperial power and no discernable strategy. It swells the profits of the war industry, wasting billions of public funds, alienates our allies and erodes the global power and prestige of the United States. | Dying empires, governed by the corrupt and the incompetent, are blinded by militarism and hubris. They are unable to read the world around them.
(2026-05-18). South Korea shifts focus to 'peaceful coexistence' with North Korea instead of 'confrontation'. tribune.com.pk 
The South Korean government under President Lee Jae Myung has shifted its focus to "peaceful coexistence" with North Korea rather than "pressure and confrontation," a white paper released by the Unification Ministry showed Monday, local media reported. | The annual paper, striking a distinctly different tone from the previous government, reflects the push by the Lee administration, which took office in June last year, to repair the strained inter-Korean relationship based on building mutual trust, Yonhap News Agency reported. | The previous conservative government of President Yoon Suk Yeol sought to bring abo…
(2026-05-18). Climate Headbangers Crawl from the Wreckage of RCP8.5 'Implausible' Finding Spinning Nothing-to-See-Here Claims. wattsupwiththat.com It will be interesting to see if Dale Vince has changed his mind on jailing climate deniers in the light of RCP8.5's demise. In July 2024, he posted on Twitter, now X, the following in support of five climate vandals who had brought the vital London M25 ring-road to a halt. One of the lunatic disrupters putting emergency services at grave risk was Roger Hallam, who was subsequently imprisoned for five years. The conspiracy was organised by Just Stop Oil, a group given £340,000 by Vince.
(2026-05-18). Saturday 6/6: Mountain Lions, Bobcats, and You. indybay.org Live Oak Library Annex (LOLA), 979 17th Avenue, Santa Cruz…
(2026-05-18). Dar, Qatari minister discuss evolving regional situation, stress dialogue amid US-Iran tensions. tribune.com.pk 
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar discussed the regional situation with Qatar's Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Mohammad bin Abdulaziz Al-Khulaifi during a telephone conversation on Monday, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA). | Both leaders discussed the "evolving regional situation and matters of mutual interest," MOFA said, adding that they "underscored the importance of dialogue and diplomatic engagement in addressing regional challenges." | Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar @MIshaqDar50 today spoke with Minister of State for Foreign Affairs…
(2026-05-18). BRICS FM Meeting in India: Further Momentum for Key Economic Initiatives. infobrics.org India hosted a meeting of BRICS Foreign Ministers, which featured a welcome address from India's Narendra Modi…
(2026-05-18). Children and adolescents in armed conflicts in Colombia. icrc.org
(2026-05-18). Colombia 2025: A humanitarian crisis beyond numbers. icrc.org
(2026-05-18). Message on World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day 2026. icrc.org
(2026-05-18). ICRC president calls for sustained international engagement to prevent further military escalation in the Middle East during visit to Iraq. icrc.org
(2026-05-18). Calls to action to parties to conflicts in Colombia. icrc.org
(2026-05-18). Yemen: Frequently asked questions on the release, transfer and repatriation of conflict-related detainees – May 2026. icrc.org
(2026-05-18). Mozambique: January to December 2025 Facts & Figures. icrc.org
(2026-05-18). Egypt: ICRC, Al-Azhar University Emphasize Shared Principles Between IHL and Islamic Sharia. icrc.org
(2026-05-18). Can we please talk about WHY we are in a missile shortage? responsiblestatecraft.org
(2026-05-18). ICRC RED aircraft to operate from Jeddah to strengthen humanitarian access to Sudan. icrc.org
(2026-05-18). Yuba County Falconry Business Ransacked, Former Visitor Claims Responsibility. indybay.org
(2026-05-18). Russian drone strikes Chinese cargo ship in Black Sea. albawaba.com
(2026-05-18). ICRC report: Failure to respect rules of war deepened humanitarian crisis in Colombia in 2025. icrc.org
(2026-05-18). Non-compliance with international humanitarian law deteriorated the humanitarian situation in Colombia in 2025. icrc.org
(2026-05-18). Iraq: ICRC president to meet senior officials, discuss humanitarian engagement on two-day visit. icrc.org
(2026-05-18). Searching for people missing in connection with the 1992-1993 armed conflict continues. icrc.org
(2026-05-18). Poland: High level briefing on IHL for the Polish ministries. icrc.org
(2026-05-18). How Donald Trump, "President of Peace," is Making War on Everything. juancole.com
(2026-05-18). The humanitarian cost of non-compliance with IHL in Colombia. icrc.org
(2026-05-18). The Judicial Training Institute at the Ministry of Justice and the ICRC Launch the First International Humanitarian Law Moot Court Competition for Universities in the UAE. icrc.org
(2026-05-18). Colombia: Conduct of hostilities and use of explosive hazards. icrc.org
(2026-05-18). Treatment of civilians in Colombia during 2025. icrc.org
(2026-05-18). Upholding international humanitarian law in Colombia. icrc.org
(2026-05-18). El Salvador: Human Rights Lawyer Still in Jail One Year on. hrw.org Click to expand Image | Ruth López. | © El Diario de Hoy | (Washington, DC) — The prominent anti-corruption lawyer Ruth López remains in pretrial detention in El Salvador with her case under judicial seal one year after her arrest, Human Rights Watch said today. Salvadoran authorities should guarantee López a prompt, open, and fair trial, lift the judicial secrecy on her case file, and allow her regular contact with her family and lawyers.López, 48, heads the Anti-Corruption Unit at Cristosal, one of Central America's leading human rights organizations. She has investigated alleged corruption by sen…
(2026-05-18). El incumplimiento del DIH agravó la situación humanitaria en Colombia en 2025. icrc.org
(2026-05-18). Saturday 5/23: Film Screening: Sunrise. indybay.org Albany Library, Edith Stone Room, 1247 Marin Ave, Albany…
(2026-05-17). Strait of Hormuz 'open' except for enemies, as new Iran insurance regulatory plan touted. asiapacificreport.nz 
Asia Pacific Report Iran says the Strait of Hormuz is "open to all except its adversaries", and any passage through the trajectory of this significant chokepoint should be coordinated with the Iranian military, reports AL Jazeera. Sources say the number of ships transiting through the strait has slightly increased, but is still very low compared…
(2026-05-17). This week in history: May 18-24. wsws.org 25 years ago, 14 Mexican migrants die crossing the Arizona desert amid intensified US border militarization; 50 years ago, Pol Pot is installed as Cambodia's prime minister, consolidating Khmer Rouge rule; 75 years ago, the "17-point" agreement formalizes China's annexation of Tibet; 100 years ago, French forces capture the Rif rebel capital in Morocco…