In 2025, millions of Muslims will gather in Mecca for Hajj, beginning June 4th. This pilgrimage, a central pillar of Islam, involves rituals symbolizing faith, unity, and sacrifice. Saudi authorities are implementing safety measures due to expected record turnout and high temperatures, including cooling stations and health services. Pilgrims will utilize technology like the Hajj Smart App for assistance.
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Egypt has denied that a controversial court ruling over Sinai's Saint Catherine monastery threatens the UNESCO world heritage landmark, after Greek and church authorities warned of the sacred site's status. President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi's office defended the ruling Thursday, saying it "consolidates" the site's "unique and sacred religious status", after the head of the Greek Orthodox church in Greece denounced it.
President Zelenskyy is meeting Chancellor Merz in Berlin as Ukraine seeks more military aid amidst intensified Russian attacks. Germany, a key military supporter, has lifted range restrictions on weapons supplied to Ukraine. Recent heavy drone and missile attacks have targeted both Ukrainian and Russian regions, disrupting infrastructure and causing damage, highlighting the conflict's escalation.
South Korea is on edge as thousands rally ahead of a snap presidential election triggered by the impeachment of ex-leader Yoon Suk Yeol. Liberal candidate Lee Jae-myung leads in polls, while conservative Kim Moon-soo faces an uphill battle. Rallies highlight deep divisions, with supporters clashing over Yoon's legacy and election integrity, foreshadowing potential instability regardless of the outcome.
Iran on Sunday warned it would retaliate if European powers that have threatened to reimpose nuclear sanctions "exploit" a UN report showing Tehran has stepped up production of highly enriched uranium. The European trio have warned they could reimpose sanctions if they deemed Iran's nuclear programme a threat to the continent's security.
A senior UN official expressed dwindling hope for Russia-Ukraine negotiations amid escalating attacks, including a record drone assault. While Germany pledges long-range missile support to Ukraine, peace talks remain stalled, with both sides trading accusations of unrealistic demands and deception.
European Commission plans to boost EU's influence in Black Sea. This counters Russia's actions through collaboration with Ukraine, Moldova, and others. A maritime security hub will enhance monitoring and information sharing. The EU aims to improve regional transport infrastructure. Discussions with member states and Black Sea countries will follow. China's growing presence adds complexity to the region.
Japan announces that China will lift its ban on Japanese seafood imports, imposed in 2023 due to concerns over the Fukushima wastewater release. Agriculture Minister Shinjiro Koizumi hailed the agreement, reached after talks in Beijing, as a major milestone. While a ban on products from 10 prefectures remains, Japan sees this as a crucial step in resolving broader bilateral issues.
The Rwanda-backed M23 militia has carried out "mass killings" of Congolese civilians in the occupied eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, Human Rights Watch (HRW) warned on Tuesday. With hundreds of Congolese soldiers and allied militia fighters having dispersed to avoid capture, the M23 has carried out frequent raids in a bid to stamp its authority on the restive region.
Nearly 200 migrants trying to cross the Channel from France to Britain in small boats were rescued between late Friday and late Saturday, French coastal authorities said. A total 184 people were picked up in four different rescue operations, the maritime prefecture for France's Channel and northern region said in a statement on Sunday.
Kathmandu marked International Everest Day with climbers and guides. The event celebrated Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay's historic climb. Nepal recognizes the mountaineering community's contribution. Hundreds of foreign climbers visit Nepal annually. They are assisted by local guides. The end of May marks the end of the climbing season. Kami Rita Sherpa recently scaled Everest for a record 31st time.