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Over 58 Palestinians Killed in New Israeli Airstrikes on Gaza

Over 58 Palestinians Killed in New Israeli Airstrikes on Gaza

Fresh bombardment comes amid ongoing talks by Hamas to restore ceasefire

At least 58 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli airstrikes across Gaza overnight, according to local health officials. This brings the death toll to over 500 since the ceasefire broke down earlier this week. The recent attacks, which targeted homes and buildings in Khan Younis, Rafah, and Beit Lahiya, have caused widespread devastation, with casualties reported at hospitals in multiple regions.

Health officials confirmed the latest figures, while a pro-Hamas outlet reported over 70 deaths. The strikes came after Hamas confirmed that discussions were underway with mediators about potentially halting Israel’s renewed offensive. These talks aim to address the ongoing violence and the disruption caused during Ramadan, a key period for Muslims.

This recent escalation follows a major bombing earlier this week that killed over 400 Palestinians. Israel justifies its military actions by stating it targets militants, but blames Hamas for embedding itself in residential areas, leading to civilian casualties. The strikes have been particularly deadly, with reports indicating that 130 children were among the 430 killed over just two days.

In Rafah, the European Hospital confirmed the deaths of 26 people, mainly women and children, after strikes hit two homes. Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis reported seven fatalities from an overnight attack, and in Beit Lahiya, another seven died in a strike on a residential building.

The Israeli military has resumed operations in central and southern Gaza to regain control of the Netzarim corridor, a strategic area that splits the region in half. This is one of the deadliest days in the ongoing 17-month conflict, with fears growing over the fate of around two dozen hostages still held in Gaza.

On the Israeli side, protests have erupted in Jerusalem, with citizens calling for a resolution to secure the release of the hostages. There are also growing concerns over the forced displacement of Palestinian families in northern and eastern Gaza, where Israeli forces have dropped leaflets instructing people to evacuate.

In a separate development, Yemen’s Houthi group claimed responsibility for a missile attack on Israel, which was intercepted by Israeli defence systems near Tel Aviv. The Houthis have vowed to retaliate, including targeting Israel, in response to recent US strikes on their positions.

As tensions continue to rise, international pressure grows for a renewed effort towards peace and negotiations.

Singapore’s Seniors Set to Receive Earn and Save Bonus of Up to S$1,000

Singapore’s Seniors Set to Receive Earn and Save Bonus of Up to S$1,000

Over 570,000 eligible senior citizens will benefit from the first payment of this annual bonus in March

In March 2025, more than 570,000 eligible Singaporean seniors will receive their first Earn and Save Bonus payment, with amounts of up to S$1,000. This initiative, announced by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) on March 20, is part of the government’s broader effort to support retirement savings for working seniors, especially those born between 1960 and 1973.

The Earn and Save Bonus is a key element of the S$9 billion Majulah Package introduced in 2024. It targets working Singaporeans born in 1973 or earlier, with eligibility criteria based on income and property ownership. To qualify, applicants must have earned between S$500 and S$6,000 monthly in the previous year and live in a property with an annual value of S$31,000 or less. Additionally, they should not own more than one property.

The bonus amount varies according to the recipient’s monthly income:

S$500 to S$2,500: S$1,000
S$2,500 to S$3,500: S$700
S$3,500 to S$6,000: S$400
To check if they qualify, seniors can log into the govbenefits website using their Singpass. Once the bonus is credited to their CPF accounts, recipients will be notified via SMS in April 2025. Those without a Singpass-registered mobile number will receive a notification letter at the address on their identity card.

MOM has also cautioned against potential scams, reminding citizens that official SMS notifications will not ask for replies, links to be clicked, or any personal information. Messages regarding the payment will never be sent via WhatsApp or other messaging apps.

SpaceX Capsule Lands as Dolphins Encircle Returning NASA Astronauts

SpaceX Capsule Lands as Dolphins Encircle Returning NASA Astronauts

Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams Return to Earth After Prolonged Stay on the ISS

A remarkable scene unfolded off the Florida coast as a SpaceX capsule carrying NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams splashed down, greeted by a pod of dolphins. The astronauts, who returned just before 10pm GMT on Tuesday, had spent far longer in space than initially planned.

Originally set for an eight-day mission, Wilmore and Williams ended up spending nine unexpected months aboard the International Space Station (ISS) due to technical setbacks with Boeing’s Starliner crew capsule. They finally made their way home aboard a SpaceX vehicle, marking the conclusion of a prolonged and challenging mission.

Video footage of the landing captured several dolphins swimming around the capsule as recovery teams worked to secure it. The unique moment provided an unexpected spectacle after months of uncertainty regarding the astronauts’ return.

Their journey began in June 2024, when they became part of NASA’s ongoing efforts to launch astronauts from US soil through partnerships with private space companies. Although Boeing’s Starliner was chosen for the Crew-9 mission, its persistent technical issues resulted in multiple delays, forcing the astronauts to remain aboard the ISS for far longer than anticipated.

The extended stay caught the attention of political figures, including US President Donald Trump, who criticised NASA’s handling of the mission and accused his predecessor of neglecting the astronauts. SpaceX CEO Elon Musk also supported an expedited return.

Wilmore and Williams, both experienced astronauts, adapted to life in orbit while waiting for a solution. After 286 days in space, they are now back on Earth, with Williams expressing excitement about reuniting with her family and pets.

Their return marks another milestone in NASA’s Commercial Crew Program, highlighting both the challenges and triumphs of human spaceflight.

Boris Johnson Criticises Trump After Putin Rejects Ceasefire Proposal

Boris Johnson Criticises Trump After Putin Rejects Ceasefire Proposal

Former Prime Minister Accuses Trump of Failing to Make Progress in Talks with Russian Leader

Boris Johnson, once a strong ally of Donald Trump, has sharply criticised the US President’s recent talks with Vladimir Putin, following the Russian leader’s rejection of a ceasefire proposal in the ongoing Ukraine conflict. Johnson, who had been a vocal supporter of Trump, expressed his frustration on social media, claiming that Putin’s refusal to entertain the ceasefire plan demonstrated that the Russian leader was “laughing at us.”

In his post, Johnson expressed disbelief at Putin’s stance, accusing the Russian leader of continuing to “bomb and kill innocent Ukrainians” and aiming to turn Ukraine into a “vassal state of Russia.” This reaction stood in stark contrast to his earlier comments on March 14, where he had expressed confidence that Trump would be able to pressure Putin into conceding, stating that he believed Trump would use all his diplomatic leverage to force the Russian leader to back down.

Johnson’s comments reflect a growing disillusionment among some of Trump’s former supporters, who have been critical of his apparent lack of progress in securing a peaceful resolution to the war in Ukraine. Critics have also highlighted the diplomatic flaws in Trump’s handling of the situation, with some pointing to Putin’s attempts to use the talks to bolster Russia’s image, including the suggestion of a US-Russia ice hockey match.

In a statement that resonated with others critical of Trump’s efforts, Johnson joined those accusing the US President of failing to achieve any meaningful results. The rejection of a ceasefire, alongside continued Russian attacks on Ukrainian energy infrastructure, has led many to question the effectiveness of Trump’s diplomatic approach.

As Russia’s state-controlled media lauds Putin’s success in these talks, Johnson’s comments further underscore the growing tension over the ongoing conflict and the role of international diplomacy in seeking peace.

Riverside Bungalow on Thames Island to Be Auctioned for £525,000

Riverside Bungalow on Thames Island to Be Auctioned for £525,000

Accessible only by boat, this unique three-bedroom property offers idyllic river views and potential as a project home or holiday let.

A charming bungalow located on a tiny island in the Thames, accessible only by boat, is set to be auctioned with a guide price of £525,000. The property, named Jour de Fete, sits on Pats Croft Eyot near Wraysbury and offers a rare opportunity for those seeking an island lifestyle within commuting distance of London.

The 1,831 square-foot bungalow is situated on the banks of the river, providing stunning views on both sides. Featuring a unique curved design, the three-bedroom home maximises its picturesque setting, with full-height windows to enhance the river vistas. The house includes a lounge area with a bay window and a built-in pub-style bar, providing a perfect place to enjoy the scenic surroundings.

While the property is currently lacking a kitchen and requires some refurbishment, it offers potential for a bespoke riverside home or even a holiday let or Airbnb rental, like some other properties on nearby Thames islands. The bedrooms, all en-suite, are located on the opposite side of the house from the living areas, ensuring privacy and comfort.

The bungalow’s appeal extends beyond its distinctive design; it comes with a waterside patio and a mooring for a small boat, ideal for those who love the water. The nearest station, Sunnymeads, is just a short boat ride away, offering direct rail links to Waterloo in under an hour.

Auctioned by Auction House London on 19th March, the property was purchased for £600,000 by its current owners in 2023 and is expected to attract buyers eager to turn it into a one-of-a-kind riverside retreat.

Auction House London’s operations director, Alice Chemla, highlighted the bungalow’s rare qualities, noting that the location and layout will appeal to couples or families looking for a tranquil project home, especially those willing to commute by boat. The successful buyer will be fortunate to secure a piece of the Thames in this unique setting.

BYD Unveils Fast Charging Technology for Electric Cars, Matching Petrol Tank Refills

BYD Unveils Fast Charging Technology for Electric Cars, Matching Petrol Tank Refills

The Chinese automaker introduces a revolutionary system that charges vehicles to 400km in just five minutes.

Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer BYD has introduced a groundbreaking new battery technology, enabling electric cars to charge as quickly as refuelling a petrol tank. The innovative ‘Super E-Platform’ can achieve a rapid 1,000 kW charging speed, which is four times faster than Tesla’s Superchargers, which operate at 250 kW.

This new system allows vehicles to gain up to 400 km (249 miles) of range in just five minutes of charging. During a live broadcast from its Shenzhen headquarters, BYD announced that this advancement would eliminate “range anxiety” for users, particularly when travelling longer distances.

The first vehicles to feature the Super E-Platform will be BYD’s Han L and Tang L models, which will initially be available exclusively in China.

In recent years, electric vehicle sales have soared in China, with BYD leading the market, holding approximately one-third of the country’s EV sales. The company surpassed Tesla in 2024, becoming the world’s largest manufacturer of electric cars, despite its limited presence in Europe and no current sales in the United States.

Global sales of electric vehicles have significantly increased, with electric cars accounting for 18% of all new car sales in 2023, according to the International Energy Agency. In contrast, sales of combustion engine vehicles have dropped substantially by a quarter from 2018 to 2023, indicating that the peak of fossil fuel-powered car sales may have passed.

While BYD’s fast-charging technology is set to fuel further growth in the EV sector, the new system will require special charging stations to optimise charging times. Wang Chuanfu, the company’s founder, indicated that the price of the Han L and Tang L models would likely start at around $40,000.

London to Experience Warm Spring Weather, Surpassing the Algarve with Temperatures of 21°C

London to Experience Warm Spring Weather, Surpassing the Algarve with Temperatures of 21°C

The Capital Set to Enjoy a Taste of Summer Ahead of the Spring Equinox

London is set to enjoy an unusually warm start to spring this week, with temperatures reaching up to 21°C, surpassing even the Algarve. The warm weather coincides with the Spring equinox on Thursday, marking the official start of the season, bringing longer days and higher temperatures.

Although the week begins with some cloud cover, the Met Office predicts sunny spells in London by Tuesday. Despite this, a chilly breeze will keep the early part of the week cooler, with temperatures around 10 to 11°C, especially in the mornings.

However, by Thursday, London is forecast to see temperatures of 21°C, which will be higher than popular holiday destinations such as Ibiza (17°C) and Corfu (16°C). The Algarve, typically known for its warm weather, is also expected to experience temperatures of only 16°C, while London will share the same temperature as Los Angeles, which is also expected to hit 21°C.

Meteorologist Becky Mitchell explained that temperatures would be around eight degrees above the average for this time of year. “We’re anticipating a lot of dry weather, with increasing sunshine over the next few days,” she said. “While the current temperatures are near average, the chilly wind is making it feel colder. However, by Wednesday and Thursday, the temperatures will rise significantly.”

The warm weather is attributed to a high-pressure system over the region, which is expected to bring dry, sunny conditions to much of the UK. While southern parts of the country will experience the warmest weather, including southern Scotland, Northern Ireland, and England, northern Scotland will remain cooler.

According to Mitchell, the spring equinox will bring a true sense of spring to London, with temperatures well above average and sunny conditions throughout the week.

Virgin Atlantic to Introduce Electric Flying Taxis in the UK, Offering Rapid Air Travel

Virgin Atlantic to Introduce Electric Flying Taxis in the UK, Offering Rapid Air Travel

Passengers to Travel Between London and Heathrow in Just Eight Minutes with Virgin’s New Electric Air Taxis

Virgin Atlantic has confirmed plans to introduce flying taxis in the UK in collaboration with Joby Aviation, providing fast, zero-emission journeys across the country. The air taxis will initially operate from key Virgin Atlantic hubs at Heathrow and Manchester Airports, with the journey from London’s Heathrow to Canary Wharf taking just eight minutes, compared to the usual 80-minute car trip.

The electric air taxis, designed by Joby, will carry up to four passengers and a pilot, reaching speeds of up to 200mph. The service will be accessible through Virgin Atlantic’s app, website, and other booking platforms. Additionally, the taxi’s six tilting propellers will allow for vertical take-off and landing, generating much less noise than conventional helicopters.

Joby’s aircraft is optimised for frequent flights, making it ideal for routes of up to 100 miles. The company plans to establish a network of “vertiports” across the UK to facilitate the new mode of transport, which has already undergone thousands of successful test flights, including demonstration runs in cities like New York, Japan, and Korea.

The new service aims to offer prices on par with existing premium ridesharing options, although a confirmed launch date for the flying taxis in the UK is yet to be announced. This venture builds on an existing partnership between Joby and Delta Airlines, which holds a significant stake in Virgin Atlantic.

Shai Weiss, CEO of Virgin Atlantic, expressed excitement about the partnership, highlighting their commitment to sustainability and innovation. The UK government has also recognised the potential of flying taxis, with a 2024 plan proposing that these vehicles could begin operations as early as 2026, part of the Department of Transport’s Future of Flight Action Plan.

As Virgin Atlantic prepares for the roll-out of its flying taxis, travellers will need to rely on rail and road transport for the time being, but the future of air travel in the UK appears set for a significant transformation.

Putin Sends Subtle Signals to Trump Amid Ukraine Ceasefire Talks with US Envoy

Putin Sends Subtle Signals to Trump Amid Ukraine Ceasefire Talks with US Envoy

Kremlin Expresses Cautious Optimism over Prospects of Ceasefire, but Challenges Remain

The Kremlin has indicated that Russian President Vladimir Putin has sent a message to former US President Donald Trump following recent talks on a proposed ceasefire in Ukraine. The proposal, put forward by Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, suggests a 30-day ceasefire, which has already been accepted by Kyiv. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov shared that Putin expressed “signals” to Trump through Witkoff, and there are grounds for “cautious optimism” moving forward.

According to Peskov, President Putin showed some support for Trump’s position on a potential resolution to the conflict, although he raised questions that still need addressing. While Putin stated his backing for Trump’s settlement approach, he noted that “a lot remains to be done,” highlighting the complexities of the situation.

Despite the cautious optimism, UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy criticised any potential conditions Putin might impose on the ceasefire, describing it as “wrong.” Lammy stressed that a temporary ceasefire should pave the way for broader negotiations, aimed at a comprehensive peace settlement that guarantees Ukraine’s security and sovereignty.

During a recent press conference, Putin affirmed that the idea of a ceasefire was “correct” but emphasised that critical discussions with the US were still necessary to address underlying issues. Meanwhile, President Zelensky of Ukraine has accused Putin of attempting to attach preconditions to the ceasefire to undermine the potential for peace.

Trump, on his part, expressed hopes that Russia would eventually agree to the ceasefire, stating that failure to do so would be a “very disappointing moment for the world.” US National Security Adviser Mike Waltz suggested that territorial exchanges, including the Donbas region, might form part of a peace agreement.

The road to lasting peace remains uncertain, with both sides continuing to negotiate and assess their positions.

JD Vance Faces Backlash with Boos at Kennedy Center After Arriving Late

JD Vance Faces Backlash with Boos at Kennedy Center After Arriving Late

Vice President Met with Hostile Reception at National Symphony Concert Following Delayed Arrival

Vice President JD Vance was met with loud boos and jeers from the audience at the Kennedy Center after arriving 25 minutes late for a National Symphony Orchestra performance on Thursday evening. Vance, along with Second Lady Usha Vance, took their seats at the prestigious Washington DC venue just as the concert featuring an all-Russian music programme was about to begin.

The start of the performance had been delayed to accommodate Vance’s motorcade, which required full security checks by the Secret Service. As the vice president and his party entered the box tier, they were greeted with an uproar of boos, whistles, and jeers from the audience, which was captured in a viral clip filmed by Andrew Roth, a correspondent for The Guardian.

Among the crowd, one woman can be heard expressing her frustration, saying, “Oh, f***. S***,” upon learning it was Vance who was responsible for the delay. Despite the noise, some members of the audience continued to clap, while another shouted, “Kill that light,” urging the performance to begin without further disruption.

In response, Vance appeared to acknowledge the hostility with a smile and a wave, retorting, “You ruined this place!” Richard Grenell, an ally of former President Trump and interim director of the Kennedy Center, later described the crowd’s reaction as “intolerant.”

This incident follows a series of changes at the Kennedy Center, including Trump’s controversial appointment as its chairman, aimed at countering what he called ‘woke’ performances. As a result of these shifts, notable artists such as Issa Rae and Lin-Manuel Miranda have withdrawn their engagements at the venue.