Author: Gist It

  • South Korea says it boosts surveillance after North claims spy satellite launch

    South Korea announced an increase in its surveillance of North Korea following the latter’s claim of launching a military spy satellite, a move violating UN bans and possibly escalating Inter-Korean tensions. Stepping up defense: Upon North Korea’s unverified claim of performing its third satellite launch attempt this year, South Korea decided to partially suspend a […]

  • The world’s worst industrial disaster harmed people even before they were born

    A new study reveals that the notorious 1984 Bhopal gas leak, often regarded as the world’s worst industrial disaster, caused health issues in individuals not yet born at the time of the accident. The backstory: Roughly 40 tons of the toxic gas methyl isocyanate (MIC) leaked from a pesticide factory in Bhopal, India, in December […]

  • Israel and Hamas consider a deal to release hostages

    Israeli leaders are discussing a potential hostage exchange deal with Hamas amid ongoing tensions. Driving the news: The deal under consideration would involve the release of dozens of hostages captured by Hamas during an attack on October 7th. * In return, Israel would release several detained Palestinian prisoners. The big picture: The potential exchange showcases […]

  • How scientists are trying to save the insects that make life possible

    Scientists are working tirelessly to preserve the million-plus insect species, which, according to entomologists, are declining at concerning rates. Core issue: Despite over a million species of insects existing, they are declining at an alarming pace. * These insects play a crucial role in maintaining life on Earth. Ongoing efforts: Scientists are trying to establish […]

  • Pope Francis: Climate activist?

    Pope Francis has been a vocal advocate for climate change awareness and is set to make history as the first pontiff attending the United Nations’ annual climate conference, COP. Who is involved?: Pope Francis has consistently used his position to heighten awareness on climate change. * He is the first pope to attend the UN’s […]

  • Neighbors rally behind Palestinian restaurant owner who lost family in Gaza

    Khalid Mekki, owner of the Palestinian restaurant Bawadi Mediterranean Grill in Washington D.C., was supported by patrons during a fundraiser he hosted after losing his niece in an Israeli airstrike in Gaza. Background: With the conflict between Israel and Gaza intensifying, Mekki, who opened his restaurant to celebrate his culture, mourns for his birthplace and […]

  • Hamas leader says deal to release some hostages could come soon

    The leader of Hamas, Ismail Haniyeh, suggests that a truce agreement with Israel could be close, which would involve a halt in Israeli strikes and the release of some hostages, amid ongoing conflict. State of play: Hamas has ‘delivered its response’ to mediators in Qatar, indicating the possibility of a truce with Israel, following a […]

  • The day Gaza got an airport and a presidential visit, fueling dreams of statehood

    On Dec. 14, 1998, the Gaza International Airport’s inauguration symbolized potential progress toward Palestinian statehood, but today it lies in ruins. Historical Background: In 1998, U.S. President Bill Clinton and First Lady Hillary Clinton attended the inauguration of the Gaza International Airport, which was seen as a symbol of potential statehood for Palestinians. * The […]

  • Shakira reaches a deal with Spanish prosecutors on the first day of tax fraud trial

    Pop star Shakira has reached a last-minute deal with Spanish prosecutors on the first day of her tax fraud trial, accepting a suspended three-year sentence and a fine of 7 million euros. Key Developments: Shakira admitted to six counts of failing to pay the Spanish government 14.5 million euros in taxes for the years 2012 […]

  • Israel’s lack of a strategy is the strategy

    Israel’s seeming lack of strategy regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict may, in fact, be its strategy, according to insights from the late Ariel Sharon and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Historical context: Sharon and others believed that the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is permanent, and that any attempts at resolution, such as a two-state solution, are not truly feasible. […]