On The LINE24

US pop icon Madonna has called on Pope Leo XIV to make a personal visit to Gaza, describing him as “the only one of us who cannot be denied entry.” The plea comes as international alarm grows over an escalating humanitarian crisis in the war-torn enclave. In a joint statement issued Tuesday, the United Kingdom, European Union, Australia, Canada, and Japan warned that famine is already unfolding in Gaza, with children facing severe malnutrition and starvation. The coalition urged urgent international action to halt the crisis, citing a rapidly deteriorating situation and limited access for humanitarian aid. Madonna, long known for her outspoken humanitarian advocacy, used her social media platforms to amplify calls for unrestricted aid delivery. Her message to the pontiff underscored the symbolic and moral weight his presence could carry in highlighting the suffering of Gaza’s civilians. “Pope Leo XIV is a man of peace,” she wrote. “If anyone can walk into Gaza without obstruction, i...

Canada will formally  recognise the State of Palestine during the UN General Assembly in September 2025, becoming the third major Western democracy, after the United Kingdom and France, to make such a commitment . Prime Minister Mark Carney outlined that recognition will be conditional on the Palestinian Authority following through on key reforms: holding free and fair elections in 2026 , excluding Hamas participation , and committing to the demilitarization of a future Palestinian state   📌 Why It Matters Diplomatic shift : Canada’s announcement breaks from longstanding hesitance among Western allies, signaling a shift in the international norms surrounding Israeli–Palestinian policy   Humanitarian context : Carney cited worsening conditions in Gaza—including Israeli settlement expansion and aid blockades—as factors eroding the viability of negotiated peace under the current status quo Conditional strategy : Recognition is tied to political reforms in Pal...

Waves have reached parts of the US West Coast following a powerful earthquake off Russia’s eastern coastline. The quake, which struck near the Kuril Islands, initially triggered tsunami alerts across the Pacific, including in Japan. Japanese authorities have since lifted their tsunami warnings after observing smaller-than-expected waves along the northern coast. No major damage or injuries have been reported in Japan so far. In the US, coastal monitoring stations detected minor wave activity along parts of California, Oregon, and Washington. Officials have advised the public to remain cautious near beaches and harbours as unpredictable currents could persist. Emergency agencies in both countries continue to monitor the situation, but experts say the risk of significant damage has diminished.