Friday, April 25
Incoming US national security advisor, Mike Waltz, has emphasised the continuation of key elements of US policy towards China and India under the Trump administration. Waltz identified China as the "greatest adversary" and reaffirmed India’s importance as a critical partner for the future. He was on a panel discussion with the outgoing NSA Jake Sullivan at the US Institute of Peace.
Pulitzer Prize-winning cartoonist Darrin Bell has been arrested for possession of child pornography, including AI-generated material. Sacramento Valley detectives found evidence at his home following a tip. Bell, known for his comic strips Candorville and Rudy Park, is being held on $1 million bail, with a court appearance set for January 17.
Senior officials from the Trump administration, including prominent Cabinet nominees, attended a crucial transition exercise at the White House, hosted by President Biden's team. This simulation, focusing on national security crises like terror attacks and avian flu, is part of a long-standing transition tradition. Key figures from both administrations engaged to ensure a seamless handover of responsibilities.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s Cabinet delays approval of a ceasefire agreement with Hamas after the group reportedly reneges on parts of the deal. Brokered by the US and Qatar, the agreement would release hostages and prisoners, with Israeli forces withdrawing from Gaza, but escalating violence complicates its implementation.
A 34-year-old Queensland influencer is charged with poisoning her baby to gain online donations and followers. Authorities allege she induced medical distress in the child, photographed the pain, and solicited funds, raising AUD 60,000. The woman faces charges, including administering poison and fraud. The child is now stable and no longer in her care.
The LA wildfires have caused massive destruction, displacing families and destroying over 12,000 structures. The fires have claimed at least 25 lives, with containment efforts hindered by difficult terrain and extreme weather. Federal aid and fundraising efforts are underway, as Hollywood adjusts and authorities tackle arson and scams.
"Obviously what's happening in Los Angeles is very serious but I jokingly refer that don't forget about all of the victims here. Meghan has had her Netflix show and she had all the PR thing ready, she was expecting that the should would come in a couple of days but now it has been pushed off again. So can we think about all the victims of the Los Angeles Fires please," Sky News host Paul Murray said.
"Obviously what's happening in Los Angeles is very serious but I jokingly refer that don't forget about all of the victims here. Meghan has had her Netflix show and she had all the PR thing ready, she was expecting that the should would come in a couple of days but now it has been pushed off again. So can we think about all the victims of the Los Angeles Fires please," Sky News host Paul Murray said.
Pete Hegseth, nominee for Defence Secretary, defended his qualifications during a tense Senate hearing. He addressed scrutiny over past allegations of sexual misconduct, public drunkenness, and his views on women in combat, among others. Hegseth emphasised his commitment to military readiness and a 'warrior ethos,' drawing on his Army National Guard experience.
