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Analysis: Israel’s allies grapple with bid for ICC warrant against Netanyahu

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Analysis: Israel’s allies grapple with bid for ICC warrant against Netanyahu

International Criminal Court Prosecutor Karim Khan has requested an arrest warrant against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, causing a diplomatic dilemma for key member states who must balance support for Israel with backing the ICC’s actions. Some capitals, such as Paris, London, and Berlin, were informed beforehand about the plans, but many have not disclosed how they will respond if warrants are issued. Germany, in particular, faces challenges due to its support for Israel’s security and the ICC prosecutor’s independence. U.S. President Joe Biden and Secretary of State Antony Blinken have criticized the move, while European countries like Britain and Italy are divided over the issue. The ICC has jurisdiction over the conflict between Israel and Hamas since October 7, 2022, despite Israel not being a member of the court. The international community’s response to the arrest warrants will be crucial for the ICC’s credibility and the rule of law.

On This Day: FIFA was established in 1904

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On This Day: FIFA was established in 1904

On May 21, major events included the establishment of FIFA in 1904, Charles Lindbergh becoming the first pilot to fly solo across the Atlantic in 1927, and Amelia Earhart becoming the first woman to do the same in 1932. Sirhan B. Sirhan was sentenced to death for the murder of Robert Kennedy in 1969, later commuted to life imprisonment. In 1972, Michaelangelo’s Pieta statue was smashed in Rome, and in 1989, one million people in Hong Kong demonstrated in support of rebellious students in Beijing. Rajiv Gandhi was killed by a bomb in 1991, and in 1996, a Tanzanian ferry capsized on Lake Victoria. An earthquake in Algeria in 2003 killed thousands, while in 2004, Chris Cairns set a world record for test match sixes. The Republic of Montenegro held a referendum for independence from Serbia and Montenegro in 2006.

What happens after ICC prosecutor seeks warrants in Israel-Gaza conflict?

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What happens after ICC prosecutor seeks warrants in Israel-Gaza conflict?

The International Criminal Court prosecutor’s office has requested arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his defence chief, as well as three Hamas leaders, for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity. The request will be reviewed by a pre-trial chamber composed of three magistrates, who will decide whether to issue the arrest warrants. If issued, the individuals could be arrested if they travel to an ICC signatory state, but the court itself has no means to enforce an arrest. The application for warrants may indirectly influence other court cases and legal challenges related to Gaza.

Have smartphones killed the art of conversation?

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Have smartphones killed the art of conversation?

Fact: The use of smartphones has transformed the way people relate to the world and others, leading to a decline in face-to-face conversations and an increase in communication mediated through screens.

Navigating the complexities of Cyprus tax: A comprehensive guide

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Navigating the complexities of Cyprus tax: A comprehensive guide

The Cypriot government encourages entrepreneurs to open new businesses in Cyprus, which has seen a steady increase in foreign attention in recent years, especially in the tourism and business sectors. Understanding the Cyprus tax authorities and income tax in Cyprus is essential before starting a business in the country.

Nicosia in top five European cities for coffee lovers

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Nicosia in top five European cities for coffee lovers

Nicosia is ranked as the fifth-best city in Europe for coffee lovers, with the most hours of sunshine and the least amount of rainfall over the summer months.

HTFX becomes gold sponsor for Tziortzis

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HTFX becomes gold sponsor for Tziortzis

HTFX has become the gold sponsor of Cypriot EuroNASCAR driver Vladimiros Tziortzis, who is competing in the Nascar Whelen Euro Series Championship with Italian Academy Motorsports driving a Ford Mustang V8.

Nicosia town hall and Eleftheria Square lit up for Europe Day

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Nicosia town hall and Eleftheria Square lit up for Europe Day

The Nicosia town hall and Eleftheria Square will be lit up on Europe Day, celebrated every year on May 9, to mark the beginning of the month-long countdown to the European elections scheduled from June 6 to 9.

Russian publisher redacts book on gay Italian director amid LGBT crackdown

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Russian publisher redacts book on gay Italian director amid LGBT crackdown

Roberto Carnero, an Italian literature professor, was shocked when his critical essay on Pier Paolo Pasolini was heavily censored by a Russian publisher. The publisher, AST, removed about 70 pages out of 400 from the book, citing anti-gay propaganda laws. Despite concerns, the publisher defended the redactions as an “artistic statement” and the book sold out its initial print run. The censorship highlights the crackdown on LGBT rights in Russia under Putin’s rule, with activists facing serious consequences for their advocacy. Carnero, reflecting on the irony of the situation, noted that Pasolini, known for his outspoken activism, would have likely opposed such censorship.