QATAR
Doha hosts truce talks
Indirect negotiations for a truce between Israel and Hamas in Gaza and the release of hostages are set to resume in Doha, Qatar. The presence of Israeli and American leaders is confirmed, but it is not yet known whether Hamas will participate. Israel imposed conditions for the truce, including a veto on the release of Palestinian prisoners. The situation is complicated by the recent death of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Iran, which exacerbated regional tensions. / 24 HOURS
BRAZIL
Amazon fires break record
So far this year, fires in the Brazilian Amazon have increased by 111% compared to the same period in 2023, reaching a total of 37,835 fires. This figure marks the highest number of fires recorded since 2005, according to data from Fiocruz Amazonia. Smoke affected Manaus, where the use of face masks is recommended, especially for people with respiratory problems. Weather conditions and drought contribute to the crisis. / 24 HORAS
NEW ZEALAND
Organization distributes drug-laced candy
An Auckland charity mistakenly distributed sweets laced with methamphetamine in its food parcels for homeless people. The Auckland City Mission is searching for around 400 people to recover the affected parcels. Three individuals required medical attention, but have since been released. The New Zealand Drug Foundation said the sweets contained 300 times the usual dose, which can be lethal. / 24 HOURS
NORTH KOREA
Foreign tourism will return in December
North Korea will reopen to foreign tourists in December after nearly five years of closure due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Koryo Tours and KTG Tours, specialist tour operators, confirmed that visitors will be allowed to return to the town of Samjiyon, a major tourist destination near Mount Paektu. Although Samjiyon is the only confirmed destination for now, Pyongyang and other places are also expected to reopen. / WITH INFORMATION FROM AFP
Related
2024-08-18 09:00:20