Israeli Airstrikes on Gaza Signal Resumption of Hostilities

The Guardian,

On March 18, 2025, Israeli forces launched extensive airstrikes across the Gaza Strip, effectively ending a two-month ceasefire with Hamas. The strikes targeted multiple locations, including Gaza City and Khan Younis, resulting in over 400 Palestinian casualties, many of whom were women and children. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared that these operations are “just the beginning,” emphasizing the intent to dismantle Hamas and secure the release of Israeli hostages. The escalation follows unsuccessful negotiations in Doha, where Hamas reportedly refused to release additional Israeli captives and rejected proposals to extend the truce. International reactions have been swift, with countries such as Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey condemning the renewed violence and urging an immediate ceasefire. The United Nations has expressed deep concern over the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Gaza, highlighting the urgent need for restraint and the protection of civilians.

Russian Ceasefire on Ukrainian Energy Infrastructure Amid Peace Talks

Financial Times,

Russian President Vladimir Putin has announced a 30-day suspension of strikes targeting Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, aiming to facilitate forthcoming peace negotiations. This decision follows discussions with U.S. President Donald Trump, reflecting a tentative step towards de-escalation in the region. While Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy had proposed such a measure in October, Putin remains cautious, citing “serious risks about Ukraine’s compliance.” Both Moscow and Washington have agreed to continue working towards a bilateral ceasefire, with the international community closely monitoring these developments.

Boeing Faces Challenges in Space Division Amid Competition

Financial Times,

Boeing’s space division is encountering significant challenges, losing ground to competitors like SpaceX. Technical issues with Boeing’s Starliner spacecraft have led NASA to favor SpaceX’s Dragon capsules for astronaut transport. These setbacks highlight broader financial and operational difficulties Boeing faces in adapting to fixed-price contracts and maintaining engineering quality. The company’s struggle to keep pace in the rapidly evolving space industry underscores the need for strategic adjustments to regain its competitive edge.

Brazil’s Central Bank Anticipated to Raise Interest Rates Amid Inflation

Reuters,

Brazil’s Central Bank is expected to increase its benchmark Selic interest rate by 100 basis points to 14.25% on March 19, 2025. This move, marking the third consecutive hike of this magnitude, aims to address escalating inflation, which reached 5.06% last month—the highest in over a year. The decision reflects the bank’s commitment to curbing inflationary pressures, despite a mixed economic outlook. Projections suggest the Selic rate could peak at 15.25% in the third quarter before gradually declining.

Australia’s Network Ten and Lisa Wilkinson Ordered to Pay Own Costs in Defamation Case

The Guardian,

On March 19, 2025, Australia’s Federal Court ruled that Network Ten and journalist Lisa Wilkinson must each bear their own legal costs in the defamation case brought by Bruce Lehrmann. Justice Michael Lee determined that both parties should be responsible for their respective expenses, following the settlement of the case. This outcome highlights the complexities involved in defamation proceedings and serves as a reminder of the potential financial implications for media organizations and journalists engaged in such legal battles.

European Leaders Convene in London to Draft Ukraine Peace Plan

Reuters,

On March 2, 2025, leaders from 18 countries gathered in London for a summit aimed at formulating a peace plan to address the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Hosted by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, the meeting sought to establish a “coalition of the willing” to support Ukraine’s sovereignty and security. Key outcomes included commitments to maintain military aid to Ukraine, enhance economic sanctions against Russia, and bolster Ukraine’s defensive capabilities post-conflict. The summit underscored Europe’s determination to play a pivotal role in securing lasting peace in the region, with plans to present the proposed framework to the United States and other global partners for further endorsement.