[QUICKREADS]
People in the Chinese manufacturing hub of Guangzhou clashed with white hazmat-suited riot police, videos shared widely on social media showed, as frustration with stringent Covid-19 rules boiled over. The clashes in the southern city marked an escalation from protests in the Shanghai, capital Beijing and other cities over the weekend in China's biggest wave of civil disobedience since president Xi Jinping took power a decade ago.
Habitas AlUla, a resort in remote Saudi Arabia, offers a surreal experience with a mix of guests and activities. Despite challenges, including strict rules and human rights concerns, the resort aims to bridge cultural gaps and empower locals. The destination is part of Saudi Arabia's push to boost tourism and reshape its global image. The article highlights the unique charms and complexities of visiting this unconventional oasis.
US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin held substantive talks with his Chinese counterpart Dong Jun via video conference, emphasizing the importance of military communication and respect for international law. China called for greater trust but also warned the US over Taiwan and the South China Sea. Tensions persist over various issues, including Taiwan and the South China Sea, despite recent interactions between military officials from both countries.
The Supreme Court questions the extent of obstruction charges from the Jan. 6 Capitol riot, potentially impacting cases like Donald Trump's. Justices weigh obstruction charge against former officer Joseph Fischer, challenging the law's broad application. Rulings could affect Trump's pending cases. Justices show divided opinions, with a decision expected by June. Over 330 face obstruction charges, with some sentences delayed pending the outcome.
France has recalled its ambassador to Azerbaijan, citing actions damaging bilateral relations. The tensions stem from Azerbaijani actions in Nagorno-Karabakh, with fears of further aggression towards Armenia. France supports talks for normalization between the two countries. Armenia, facing strained relations with Russia, turns to France for defense cooperation. France recently sold military equipment to Armenia, sparking anger from Azerbaijan.
Venezuelan President Maduro orders closure of country's embassy and consulates in Ecuador in solidarity with Mexico after raid on Mexican embassy. Ecuadorian President defends raid as protecting national security. Mexico severs diplomatic ties with Ecuador, demands apology and expulsion from UN. Maduro calls for return of former Vice President Jorge Glas to Mexican embassy. Ecuador faces criticism for raid, President Noboa absent from regional meeting. Thousands of Venezuelan migrants in Ecuador.
Potential jurors were dismissed from Donald Trump's hush money case as lawyers sought a panel of New Yorkers. Trump faces 34 felony counts for falsifying business records to hide alleged affairs. Jurors were questioned for impartiality, with some excused for bias. Trump claims the trial is politically motivated. Prosecutors seek a $3,000 fine for social media posts violating a gag order. The trial puts Trump's legal issues at the forefront of the race against President Joe Biden.
The Supreme Court questions obstruction charges against Jan. 6 rioters, including Trump, in the case of former police officer Joseph Fischer. Arguments suggest a divided court, with conservative justices leaning towards the defendants. The charge carries a maximum of 20 years but averages 2 years. The case could impact over 300 defendants. Some rioters have been released pending the court's decision.
Israel is considering options to retaliate against Iran for a recent drone and missile attack. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vows a response, with potential targets including Iran's nuclear facilities, military infrastructure, proxy militias, or focusing on Gaza to defeat Hamas, which is supported by Iran. The US and Europe urge restraint as tensions escalate.
Pakistan and Saudi Arabia urge immediate cease-fire and uninterrupted aid in Gaza. Saudi Foreign Minister criticizes insufficient international efforts, warns of potential famine. Calls for de-escalation to prevent further conflict in the region. Pakistan's PM seeks closer cooperation with Saudi Arabia for investment. Saudi Arabia has pledged $5 billion investment in Pakistan.
Russian President Putin urged all in the Middle East to avoid actions leading to new conflict, warning of catastrophic consequences. He discussed Iran's retaliatory measures with President Raisi, highlighting the unresolved Palestinian-Israeli conflict as a root cause of instability. Both leaders called for restraint, a ceasefire in Gaza, and diplomatic solutions. The U.S. sees Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea's partnerships as a major threat.
Defense Secretary Austin spoke with China's defense minister to improve communication and reduce incidents in the Indo-Pacific. The call is part of efforts to ease tensions, with the first high-level military contact since 2022. Concerns remain about aggressive behavior, but recent talks aim to prevent conflict. Diplomatic efforts have followed military confrontations, with the U.S. and China discussing incidents in the Pacific.
US new home construction slowed in March, with residential starts dropping 14.7% to a 1.32 million annualized rate, the lowest since August. Building permits also fell to a 1.46 million rate. Single-family home construction decreased the most in three years, while multifamily starts hit a pandemic low. Builders may be pausing after recent growth, with new home inventory high. Mortgage rates stabilizing at 7% are impacting buyer and builder sentiment.
Sri Lanka fails to reach agreement with bondholders for debt restructuring, aiming to meet IMF bailout targets. Government unable to strike deal with bondholders over USD 12 billion debt, facing setback in cash-strapped nation. IMF approved USD 3 billion bailout in 2023, with two tranches released. Sri Lanka aims to complete debt restructuring agreements by June for IMF review.
Israel's war cabinet meets to decide on a response to Iran's first direct attack amid global pressure to avoid escalation in the Middle East. Iran launched missiles in retaliation for an airstrike on its embassy, but signaled no desire for further conflict. US and European allies seek to deter Israel from violent retaliation with sanctions. Iran vows swift response to any Israeli counterattack. Gaza conflict fears grow.
British PM Rishi Sunak faces resistance to ban smoking for under-15s in new bill. Aim is a "smokefree generation" by gradually raising smoking age. Health Secretary Victoria Atkins says bill will save lives, NHS strain, improve productivity. Govt aims to stop smoking before it starts. Bill also targets youth vaping. DHSC warns of vaping risks. ASH charity calls it historic legislation.