New business tax will send more money to preservation programs • New Jersey Monitor

New business tax will send more money to preservation programs • New Jersey Monitor

In reviving and narrowing a surtax on the state’s most profitable businesses, lawmakers have mostly reversed a cut to New Jersey’s open space programs that happened when an earlier surcharge sunset at the start of 2024. The so-called corporate transit fee — a 2.5% surcharge on businesses with more than $10 million in profits — is … Read more

Waterborne illness now threaten flood-ravaged southern Brazil

Waterborne illness now threaten flood-ravaged southern Brazil

Waterborne diseases, particularly leptospirosis, are a major concern in Brazil’s southernmost state of Rio Grande do Sul following catastrophic floods that killed at least 169 people. Seven deaths from leptospirosis have been reported since the rains began, with another 10 deaths under investigation. Over 2,300 potential cases have been reported, with 141 confirmed. To address the high demand for medical care, four field hospitals and mobile teams have been set up. Additionally, residents returning to their homes may encounter venomous animals seeking shelter from rainwater. The destruction has also taken a toll on the mental health of the population.

Guilty victims, innocent victimisers

Guilty victims, innocent victimisers

The Israeli government is accused of pursuing a policy of ethnic cleansing to achieve maximum land with minimum Arabs, leading to a modern-day genocide. The propaganda machine distorts slogans to justify actions, while those advocating for peace and an end to slaughter are labeled as terrorist sympathizers.

This is what we did and this is what we got from the EU Recovery Fund

This is what we did and this is what we got from the EU Recovery Fund

Cyprus has managed to promote important reforms and launch public investments through the Recovery Plan, with more than 40 sponsorship projects announced. The amount available through the sponsorship projects is €460 million. The country has received €262 million from the European fund, with additional tranches expected to be disbursed later this year.

Hamas leader Sinwar, facing ICC warrant request, plotted Oct 7 attack

Hamas leader Sinwar, facing ICC warrant request, plotted Oct 7 attack

Yahya Sinwar, the Hamas leader in Gaza, was imprisoned by Israel for 23 years before rising to a leadership role in the militant group. He made a speech in December 2022 promising a fierce strike against Israel, which was carried out less than a year later in an assault that killed 1,200 people. Sinwar had a history of punishing collaborators with Israel and has been devoted to the destruction of Israel and killing Jews.

One day we flood, the next day we burn

One day we flood, the next day we burn

Two major wildfires have already occurred in Cyprus, one due to mishandling of explosives and the other for unknown reasons. Despite the country’s vulnerability to wildfires due to its dry climate, efforts to acquire aerial firefighting assets have been unsuccessful. Assistance from neighbouring countries, such as Jordan, has been requested during emergencies. The lack of proper firefighting resources has resulted in devastating consequences, with firefighters losing their lives and significant areas of land being burned. The country faces a state of neglect and lack of progress in crucial projects.

FACTBOX-Key issues for South African voters in wide open 2024 election

FACTBOX-Key issues for South African voters in wide open 2024 election

South Africans will vote in a national election on May 29 with uncertainty about the outcome, as polls suggest the African National Congress may lose its majority after 30 years in power. Key issues include high unemployment rates, sluggish economic growth, power cuts, corruption scandals, high rates of violent crime, and rising anti-immigrant sentiment. The government is working to address these issues, with a focus on job creation, economic growth, and tightening immigration laws.

At least 153 dead in Afghanistan floods, Taliban say

At least 153 dead in Afghanistan floods, Taliban say

The official death toll from devastating flash floods in northern Afghanistan has risen to 153 people across three provinces, according to the Taliban’s interior ministry. The World Food Programme reported a higher death toll of over 300, but the ministry maintains their figure of 153. At least 138 people have been injured in the flooding, with many left homeless and essential services severely disrupted.

Afghanistan floods kill over 150

Afghanistan floods kill over 150

The official death toll from the flash floods in northern Afghanistan has risen to 153 people across three provinces, according to the Taliban’s interior ministry. The World Food Programme reported a higher death toll of more than 300 people.

Our View: 20 years on, rejection of Annan plan does not seem like a triumph

Our View: 20 years on, rejection of Annan plan does not seem like a triumph

Fact: The Turkish Cypriot press reported that there are 213 mosques and 240 people working at the ‘directorate of religious affairs’ in the occupied area, with 120 of them being imams.