In his State of the Union address, US President Joe Biden has declared that the American military will construct a temporary dock along the Gaza coast. This is to facilitate the large-scale distribution of humanitarian aid, as the US takes the lead in relief efforts. Biden described the dire situation faced by almost two million Palestinians who are besieged or displaced, with their properties and cities devastated, and lack the essentials of food, water and medicine.
In other news, voting has commenced in two referendums tackling proposed amendments on family and caring roles in the Constitution. The polls opened at 7am and will close at 10pm.
A significant development is the planned dispatch of Irish military aircraft to the Middle East. The intent is to assist in transporting essential humanitarian aid to Gaza.
Elsewhere, a distraught woman has attained a protection order against her husband, a member of the Garda, expressing fear for her own life and those of her children amid her impending divorce.
Sanctions have been imposed on two Dublin-based Irish companies trading in “spyware” by the United States. These firms have been utilising this Dublin business front to launder scores of millions in profits from Middle Eastern sales.
To mark International Women’s Day, consider discovering the work of six underrated female authors. This is a celebration where the norm is flexible marriages and women as family leaders.
On a final note, the Garda Commissioner pointed out in ‘The Big Interview’ that the Kinahan cartel has been seeking alternative means to launder its funds ever since Daniel Kinahan’s legitimacy as a professional boxing promoter was destroyed, thus bringing an end to his “selfies with celebrities” era.
Despite the concentration on RTÉ, there’s a lack of political determination to establish a new funding structure. Surprisingly, a forecast concerning Russia’s possible invasion of the EU has alarmed diplomats.
In Today’s Business talk, quick emails, though efficient, might turn out problematic in the future. Emails are swift and thrive on abbreviations often written hastily. While it may seem like a casual communication mode, it isn’t the case.
In recent sports news, Ciara Mageean’s ‘world record’ at the parkrun led to her missing out on the indoor season. She had participated in the 5km parkrun at Victoria Park in Belfast on December 23rd, intending to shift focus towards Olympic preparations. The debate of who invented the Blitz defence tactic in the England vs Ireland game spurs on, highlighting a young reporter’s fear of ending up humiliated in a press room filled with seasoned colleagues.
Cultural and lifestyle updates include an interesting radio review about Oliver Callan’s talk show. Callan, who’s barely a month into hosting, seems to be falling asleep on the job, adding to the concerns at RTÉ.
Furthermore, explore our highlighted Podcast focusing on the Oscars: discussion centred around who should win versus who actually will.
Our Crosswords & Puzzles section has much to offer for those looking for a challenge.
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