International

Following the rapid overthrow of Bashar al-Assad's regime by Islamist rebels, Syria continues to face significant instability. The interim administration, under the leadership of Ahmad al-Sharaa, is struggling with increasing security issues, such as fierce resistance from Assad's remaining supporters. Although the fall of Assad’s repressive regime was a pivotal moment in Syria’s 13-year conflict, achieving lasting peace remains a complex challenge.The interim government, primarily made up of individuals who gained influence from opposition areas such as Idlib in the northwest, has taken over a nation left divided and ravaged by prolonged conflict. The elimination of Assad-era institutions, including the…

On March 2, 2025, tensions in the Gaza Strip escalated considerably following the Israeli government's decision to halt the entry of humanitarian aid into the Palestinian territory. This action was taken after Hamas declined an offer to prolong the initial phase of the ceasefire, raising international concerns and worsening the humanitarian crisis in the area.en.Ceasefire Context and Unsuccessful NegotiationsThe ceasefire, which had been in place for 42 days, was brokered by the United States, Egypt, and Qatar, aiming to lessen hostilities and permit the flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza. During this time, there were exchanges of hostages and prisoners,…

Asia-Pacific markets were mostly positive on Thursday, with major Japanese and Taiwanese indices hitting record highs. The Topix rose 0.85%, surpassing its all-time high of 2,886.50 reached in December 1989. The Nikkei 225 index rose 0.8%, surpassing its all-time high of 40,888.43 reached in March this year. Shares of SoftBank Group hit another all-time high, extending their winning streak to seven days, with a 2.5% gain. Japanese companies have seen their biggest wage increases in three decades this year, according to Japan’s largest labor union. A survey conducted by labor group Rengo since March shows that monthly pay for union-supported…

In a significant shift from global trends, Greece has introduced a six-day workweek for some companies, aiming to improve productivity and employment. The new rule, effective July 1, is part of a broader labor law reform passed last year. The policy allows employees of private companies that offer 24-hour services to extend their work week from the traditional 40 hours to 48 hours. However, sectors such as hospitality and tourism are excluded from this change. The pro-business administration of Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis defends the measure as "worker-friendly" and "growth-oriented." The government argues it will help workers receive adequate overtime…

The International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued arrest warrants for Sergei Shoigu, former Russian defense minister, and Russian General Valery Gerasimov, in connection with alleged crimes committed during Russia's invasion of Ukraine. This brings to eight the total number of arrest warrants for high-level Russian suspects since the deployment of Russian troops in Ukraine in February 2022. Among those targeted is Russian President Vladimir Putin, who is accused of deporting Ukrainian children to Russia. While the move was welcomed by Kiev, Moscow dismissed it as having no legal significance. The ICC said Shoigu and Gerasimov are suspected of war crimes…