Israeli strikes on Syria kill dozens, security sources say
Israeli strikes in Aleppo killed 38 people, including five members of Hezbollah, in the deadliest attacks in an intensified campaign against Iran’s allies in Syria.
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Gunmen kill more than 60 in concert attack near Moscow, Islamic State claims responsibility (updated)
Camouflage-clad gunmen attacked concertgoers near Moscow, killing at least 60 people and injuring 145. The attack, claimed by Islamic State militants, is the deadliest in Russia since the 2004 Beslan school siege. The incident occurred just before the Soviet-era rock group “Picnic” was to perform at the Crocus City Hall. Videos showed people fleeing amidst gunfire. Russian investigators confirmed the death toll, and health officials reported about 145 wounded, with 60 in critical condition. Islamic State claimed responsibility for the attack, stating its fighters caused destruction and casualties before withdrawing. The United States confirmed Islamic State’s claim and mentioned having warned Russia of a potential attack. The attack on Crocus City Hall happened two weeks after the U.S. embassy in Russia warned of an imminent extremist attack in Moscow. Russia tightened security nationwide following the incident.
Gunmen kill 40 in attack at concert near Moscow, Islamic State claims responsibility
At least 40 people were killed and 145 wounded when gunmen attacked concertgoers near Moscow. The Islamic State claimed responsibility for the attack. The incident occurred at the Crocus City Hall before a performance by the Soviet-era rock group “Picnic.” Verified videos showed the chaos and the attempts of people to escape the gunfire. Russia’s Federal Security Service reported the casualties, and the attack has been described as one of the deadliest on Russian soil in decades. Children were among the dead and injured. The venue experienced significant damage, including a collapsing roof and a fire. The United States, European and Arab powers, and many former Soviet republics condemned the attack. Two weeks prior to the attack, the U.S. embassy in Russia had warned of an imminent extremist attack in Moscow. Following the incident, Russia increased security measures across the country.
Gunmen kill at least 40 in attack at concert hall near Moscow
At least 40 people were killed and more than 100 injured in an attack by five gunmen at a concert in Crocus City Hall near Moscow. The gunmen, dressed in camouflage and armed with automatic weapons, opened fire on the crowd. There was also a report of a second blast at the venue. The attack occurred during a concert by the band “Picnic.” The incident took place shortly after President Vladimir Putin was re-elected and amidst Russia’s conflict with Ukraine. The Russian Federal Security Service (FSB) confirmed the casualties and stated that all necessary measures were being taken. The identity of the gunmen was not immediately clear. In response to the attack, security was tightened across Moscow. Russia’s foreign ministry described the incident as a “bloody terrorist attack” and emphasized the need for global condemnation. The U.S. embassy in Russia had previously warned of an imminent extremist attack in Moscow.
Iceland lava flows slow after fourth eruption since December
A volcano in southwest Iceland erupted, causing lava flows that initially threatened nearby infrastructure, including a fishing town. The eruption, which began on Saturday evening, was the fourth since December and occurred at the same location as the previous one in February. The fissure from which the lava flowed was approximately 3 km long. Authorities had anticipated the eruption due to underground magma accumulation. Lava flows slowed by Sunday, and man-made barriers were effective in diverting the lava away from the town and towards the sea. Some residents of Grindavik, a nearby fishing town, were evacuated. The Icelandic Meteorological Office monitored the situation, including lava flow towards a geothermal power plant. The eruption was a fissure eruption, which typically does not cause large explosions or significant ash dispersal. By Sunday noon, the eruption’s activity had decreased, with lava flowing from three locations. Keflavik Airport and regional airports remained operational, while the Blue Lagoon geothermal spa closed. The February eruption had disrupted heating for over 20,000 people by destroying roads and pipelines.
Iceland lava flows slow after fourth eruption since December
– Lava flows from a volcano in southwest Iceland slowed on Sunday after lighting up the night sky on Saturday.
– The eruption, the fourth since December, began at 2023 GMT on Saturday from a 3 km-long fissure.
– Authorities had predicted the eruption due to magma accumulation under the Reykjanes peninsula, near Reykjavik.
– Seismic activity decreased since the eruption began.
– Lava flowed close to Grindavik, a fishing town of about 4,000 residents, which was evacuated.
– Barriers redirected lava flows away from key infrastructure.
– Authorities monitored lava nearing the Svartsengi geothermal power plant.
– Some residents of Grindavik evacuated on Saturday.
– Keflavik Airport and regional airports remained operational.
– The Blue Lagoon geothermal spa closed due to the eruption.
– The February eruption disrupted heating for over 20,000 people by destroying roads and pipelines.
Paphos tourism from Central Europe on the rise in 2024
Tourism from Central Europe to Paphos is expected to grow in 2024, based on early-year figures. This growth follows a trend of increasing arrivals from countries like Poland, Hungary, Austria, France, and Italy. Factors contributing to this growth include the expansion of Ryanair’s low-cost flights between Paphos and Central European airports, Paphos’s popularity as a year-round destination due to its mild climate and diverse attractions, and promotional efforts by the Paphos Tourism Board. In 2023, Paphos received over 120,000 tourists from Poland, a number expected to rise in 2024 with Ryanair operating at least 14 flights per week from six Polish airports.
Warnings to public on Green Monday
Authorities have issued advisories for Green Monday celebrations, including a warning from the department of civil aviation against flying kites or drones near Larnaca and Paphos airports due to interference risks with aircraft. The forestry department has urged the public to protect natural habitats, avoid damaging protected species, practice responsible waste disposal, and cautioned against unauthorised fires. It also warned about a threat to pine trees from a sawfly insect infestation.
Haitian PM tenders resignation after Jamaica talks
Ariel Henry, Haiti’s unelected prime minister since the 2021 assassination of the last president, announced he will step down after a transition council and a temporary replacement are appointed. Under his administration, armed gangs expanded their wealth, influence, and territory, leading Henry to seek support from Kenya for a UN-backed security mission. His trip coincided with an escalation in conflict, leaving him stranded in Puerto Rico. Henry’s resignation was decided on Friday, and he will be replaced by a presidential council consisting of two observers and seven voting members from various sectors. Haiti has been without elected representatives since early 2023, and the next elections will be the first since 2016. The U.S. has pledged an additional 0 million to the international force to help fight gangs in Haiti, bringing its total pledge to 0 million. Gang violence has led to a humanitarian crisis, with over 362,000 people internally displaced and thousands killed since 2021. Gang leader Jimmy “Barbeque” Cherizier has called for a “bloody revolution” and criticized the current system as an apartheid system.
Ukrainian laundering suspect to face trial on April 17
A Ukrainian woman was arrested in Cyprus for attempting to stage a theft of €420,000, which led to the discovery of a money laundering ring. She had made 20 trips to Cyprus, bringing in about €8 million over six months for property purchases. The 31-year-old will face trial on April 17 and remains in custody. She faces 60 charges related to money laundering and other offenses. Her activities included declaring large sums of money at customs and claiming to invest in property. Further investigations will involve Europol and Interpol, focusing on her financial activities in Cyprus.