Newsflash

Iran launches missiles at Israel, injuring 41 in Tel Aviv and other areas

In a significant escalation of tensions, Iran launched a barrage of ballistic missiles against Israel, injuring 41 people in Tel Aviv and other areas. The attack was a retaliatory measure following Israel's extensive military operation, codenamed Operation Rising Lion, which targeted senior Iranian officials and key nuclear sites. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) reported that Iran fired fewer than 100 missiles, many of which were intercepted or failed to reach their targets. However, several missiles struck Tel Aviv, causing damage to buildings and streets.

The missile strike occurred less than a day after Israel conducted its most significant assault on Iranian territory in decades. The operation targeted nuclear facilities, military installations, and the residences of senior Iranian leaders, resulting in the deaths of top military and nuclear officials, including Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) commander Hossein Salami and Armed Forces Chief of Staff Major General Mohammad Bagheri. Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei vowed severe retaliation, labeling the Israeli attack a crime against the Iranian people and warning of a "bitter and painful fate" for Israel.

In response to the Iranian missile strikes, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the objective of Operation Rising Lion was to neutralize Iran's nuclear and ballistic missile capabilities. He emphasized that the strikes were directed at the Islamic regime, not the Iranian public, and called on Iranians to rise up against their government. The escalating conflict underscores the deepening hostilities between Israel and Iran, with both sides suffering significant losses and damage. 🇮🇷🇮🇱💥

From sci‑fi to real combat: 5 AI technologies the military is already using

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing modern warfare, transitioning from theoretical concepts to operational realities on the battlefield. Militaries worldwide are integrating AI-enhanced systems that significantly alter how operations are planned and executed. These technologies span from autonomous drones and unmanned vehicles to advanced intelligence and communication systems, demonstrating the tangible impact of AI in military applications.

AI is enhancing the capabilities of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), enabling them to operate with greater autonomy and coordination. Drones equipped with AI can navigate complex environments, recognize targets, and even coordinate in swarms, posing a significant challenge to traditional air defense systems. Similarly, AI-powered counter-drone systems are being deployed to detect, track, and neutralize drone threats rapidly and cost-effectively, addressing the growing menace of inexpensive, mass-produced drones.

On the ground, AI-integrated robotic platforms, including unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) and quadruped robots, are extending military presence into high-risk areas. These robots can navigate treacherous terrain, perform reconnaissance, and even act as mobile sensor platforms, all while reducing the risk to human personnel. AI enables these systems to operate semi-autonomously, making them more effective and less reliant on constant human control.

Autonomous navigation is another critical area where AI is making strides. UGVs and UAVs can now navigate and operate independently in GPS-denied or electronically contested environments, ensuring they remain effective even under sophisticated adversarial tactics. This capability is crucial for maintaining operational integrity in complex and contested scenarios.

AI is also transforming intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) by processing vast amounts of data from various sensors. AI algorithms can identify patterns, detect anomalies, and predict enemy movements, providing commanders with faster and more comprehensive battlefield awareness. Additionally, AI-enhanced communication networks ensure resilience and security, even under electronic attacks, by dynamically routing data and detecting threats in real-time.

The ethical implications of AI in military applications are significant, with concerns ranging from autonomous lethal weapons to algorithmic bias and the potential for accelerated conflict. However, AI is increasingly being integrated into both high-tech and low-cost military systems, democratizing access to advanced capabilities. As AI continues to evolve, it will undoubtedly reshape military operations across all domains, presenting both opportunities and challenges for global security. 🤖🚀🌐

Israel eliminates Iranian commander, who helped Russia to kill hundreds of Ukrainians with kamikaze drones

On June 13, Israel conducted a targeted operation that resulted in the elimination of Brigadier General Amir Ali Hajizadeh, the head of the Aerospace Forces of the Iranian Armed Forces. Hajizadeh was a key figure in supplying Shahed drones and short-range ballistic missiles to Russia, as well as participating in joint missile development programs with Moscow. His involvement in these activities led to personal sanctions being imposed by the UK, the US, and the EU.

Hajizadeh was a prominent military official within the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), a powerful branch of Iran's executive power that operates alongside the regular army. The IRGC is responsible for ballistic missile development and domestic repression. The Israeli Defense Forces confirmed Hajizadeh's elimination, noting his role in directing aerial attacks on Israel.

The strike, part of a coordinated initial assault, targeted the command center where Hajizadeh and other senior IRGC officials were present. Among the casualties were IRGC drone commander Taher Pour and IRGC Air Force commander Davoud Sheikhian. In total, at least 20 high-ranking Iranian commanders were killed in the operation. This targeted strike underscores the ongoing tensions and military actions between Israel and Iran, with significant implications for regional security and geopolitical dynamics. 🇮🇱🇮🇷💥

Israel’s attack on Iran may have revived Moscow’s oil revenues for war

Tensions in the Middle East escalated dramatically as Israel launched military strikes on Iranian nuclear and missile facilities, sending shockwaves through global energy markets. Oil prices surged by up to 14%, with West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude briefly topping $77 per barrel, marking the largest intraday gain since May 2020. European natural gas and gold prices also rose sharply as investors sought safe-haven assets amid fears of a broader conflict in the Persian Gulf.

The Israeli strikes targeted key locations, including the Natanz nuclear site and facilities in Tabriz, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirming the campaign's aim to neutralize Iran's nuclear and ballistic missile capabilities. Iran retaliated with over 100 drones, and further missile strikes were anticipated, heightening regional tensions. The International Energy Agency (IEA) and OPEC+ are preparing for potential supply disruptions, with the IEA ready to release emergency reserves and OPEC+ poised to increase production if necessary.

The escalation underscores the delicate balance of global energy markets, particularly as Russia, a major oil and gas exporter, faces economic challenges. In 2024, Russia's oil and gas sector contributed about 30% of its federal budget revenue, while military spending in 2025 is projected at 7.7% of GDP, reflecting a highly militarized economy focused on arms and war-related production. The situation in the Middle East could have far-reaching implications for global energy prices and geopolitical stability. 🛢️💥

'We're done with Teams': German state hits uninstall on Microsoft

The German state of Schleswig-Holstein is set to transition nearly all of its civil servants, police officers, and judges to open-source software within the next three months, marking a significant shift away from Microsoft's proprietary programs. This move, led by the state's digitalization minister, Dirk Schroedter, aims to enhance data control and ensure "digital sovereignty." The initial phase involves replacing Microsoft Word and Excel with LibreOffice and Open-Xchange for emails and calendars, with a planned switch to the Linux operating system in the coming years.

This transition is driven by concerns over the dominance of American tech giants, particularly in light of recent geopolitical tensions and the need to reduce digital dependencies. The state experienced disruptions in 2023 due to a glitch in Microsoft systems, highlighting the risks of relying on a single provider. By moving to open-source software and publicly owned German digital infrastructure, Schleswig-Holstein aims to mitigate these risks and potentially save tens of millions of euros. However, the shift may face resistance from staff accustomed to Microsoft's tools, necessitating careful management and training to ensure a smooth transition. Other regions, including parts of Denmark and France, are also exploring similar moves, potentially inspired by Schleswig-Holstein's pioneering efforts. 💻🌐

Ukraine and Russia are burning through Soviet howitzers—but Putin has Kim Jong Un’s number

The 2S7 tracked howitzer, a formidable artillery piece used by both Russia and Ukraine, is facing increased vulnerability due to advancements in Ukrainian drone technology. These howitzers, capable of firing 100-kg shells up to 32 km, have traditionally operated far enough from enemy lines to avoid significant threats. However, Ukraine's expanding drone capabilities are changing this dynamic. Recently, a Ukrainian surveillance drone spotted a Russian 2S7 and its ammunition truck, leading to its destruction by adjacent units, likely equipped with BM-30 Smerch rocket launchers.

Ukraine is prioritizing the destruction of long-range Russian artillery, including the 2S7 and its North Korean equivalents, the M1989s. To achieve this, Ukraine is rapidly acquiring and deploying drones to create a "drone wall" that extends deep into Russian-occupied territory. This wall, currently reaching 15 km and planned to extend to 40 km, aims to deny Russian forces the ability to move undetected. Advanced drones that capture and repeat radio signals are crucial for this extension, with the ultimate goal of creating layers of drone superiority up to 100 km.

Russia is struggling to match Ukraine's drone innovations due to industrial and corruption challenges. Ukraine's superior electronic warfare capabilities often ground Russian drones while allowing Ukrainian drones to operate freely. To counter this, Russia is deploying more fiber-optic drones. If Ukraine can maintain its drone edge, it could significantly impede Russian military operations, cutting off artillery and infantry support up to 100 km. The recent destruction of a Russian 2S7 highlights the growing effectiveness of Ukraine's drone wall. 🛸💥

Israel employs drone tactics used in Ukraine’s Operation Spiderweb to turn Iran’s nuclear dreams to ashes

Israel has conducted a significant military operation targeting Iran’s nuclear facilities, employing tactics reminiscent of Ukraine’s Operation Spiderweb. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) established a covert base within Iranian territory to launch a wave of kamikaze drones against key nuclear and missile infrastructure. These drones struck earth-to-earth missile launchers at the Asfaghabad military base near Tehran, as reported by Al Jazeera.

Simultaneously, Israeli fighter jets bombed uranium enrichment facilities in Natanz and Fordow, as well as missile bases in Kermanshah and Khorramabad. Major cities, including Tehran, Isfahan, and Tabriz, were also targeted with precision strikes aimed at top military leadership and nuclear scientists. The holy city of Qom, home to much of Iran’s clerical elite, was also hit. According to unconfirmed reports, the strikes resulted in the deaths of several high-ranking figures, including IRGC Commander Hossein Salami, Iranian Armed Forces Chief of Staff Mohammad Bagheri, and nuclear physicist Mohammad Mehdi Tehranchi.

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz affirmed that the military will continue its mission to disrupt Iran’s nuclear ambitions. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu claimed that Iran had already stockpiled enough enriched uranium for nine nuclear bombs and planned to produce 10,000 ballistic missiles within three years. The IDF spokesperson, Efi Defrin, described the operation as a preemptive warning against Iran’s imminent nuclear weapon completion. This large-scale operation underscores Israel’s ongoing efforts to counter Iran’s nuclear program and military capabilities. 🇮🇱💥

Latvian Parliament committee votes to ban Russians, Belarusians from real estate purchases

The Latvian Saeima's Legal Committee has approved a bill in its third reading that aims to prohibit citizens and legal entities from Russia and Belarus from acquiring real estate in Latvia. This ban extends to legal entities registered in these countries, those with significant Russian or Belarusian ownership, and other legal formations established in Russia or Belarus. The restrictions will apply only to transactions concluded after the law comes into effect.

The bill's authors highlight Russia's ongoing war in Ukraine and its use of hybrid warfare tactics against democratic nations, including Latvia. They argue that Russia has employed real estate acquisitions as a means of exerting non-military influence and justifying military interventions under the guise of protecting its citizens abroad. In response, Latvia is prioritizing national security measures to counter these threats. The bill now awaits final approval from the full parliament. 🏠🚫🇷🇺🇧🇾

Global shipping leaders convene in Athens to chart industry’s future

In Athens, over 350 senior delegates from more than 30 countries gathered for the "Shaping the Future of Shipping Summit," co-hosted by the Ministry of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy, the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS), and the Union of Greek Shipowners (UGS). The event brought together government officials, regulators, and industry leaders to address the challenges and opportunities facing the global maritime sector. Key discussions focused on geopolitical uncertainty, regulatory complexity, and the need for investment in seafarer recruitment and training.

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and representatives from China, Egypt, Malta, Cyprus, and the European Commission addressed the summit, emphasizing the importance of global cooperation and regulatory coherence. ICS Chairman Emanuele Grimaldi highlighted the impact of geopolitical upheaval on the shipping industry, stressing the need for a united front to navigate these challenges. UGS President Melina Travlos called for stronger collaboration between industry and policymakers to ensure a sustainable future for global shipping.

The summit also delved into decarbonization efforts and the IMO’s greenhouse gas (GHG) strategy, with discussions on carbon pricing frameworks and the Clean Energy Marine Hubs (CEM Hubs) initiative. China and Malta joined the CEM Hubs initiative, bringing the total membership to nine countries and marking China as the first Asian participant. The event concluded with a commitment to continued dialogue and practical cooperation, with a follow-up summit scheduled for November in Hong Kong. The maritime industry is poised to tackle its challenges through global teamwork and strategic planning. 🌍🚢

Greece’s fragmented political landscape

Greece's political landscape is currently marked by significant fragmentation and polarization, with a ruling party facing a divided and dynamic opposition. The ruling party, led by Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, has been navigating a complex political environment, balancing economic recovery efforts with social and political challenges. The opposition, however, is a mosaic of parties with varying ideologies and agendas, ranging from traditional left-wing and right-wing factions to newer, more radical groups.

The main opposition party, SYRIZA, has been struggling to regain its footing after its defeat in the 2019 elections. Led by Alexis Tsipras, SYRIZA has been attempting to redefine its identity and appeal to a broader electorate, but it faces stiff competition from both the left and the right. On the far left, the Communist Party of Greece (KKE) maintains a steadfast presence, advocating for traditional communist principles. Meanwhile, on the far right, the neo-fascist Golden Dawn party, despite its legal troubles, continues to exert influence, albeit from the margins.

Newer political forces are also making waves, such as the Greek Solution party, which combines nationalist and conservative elements, and MeRA25, a progressive party founded by former SYRIZA finance minister Yanis Varoufakis. These parties, along with others, contribute to the political fragmentation, making it difficult for any single opposition party to emerge as a clear alternative to the ruling party.

The political landscape is further complicated by regional and local issues, as well as the ongoing economic recovery from the decade-long financial crisis. The ruling party must address these challenges while also managing the fallout from various scandals and controversies. The opposition, in turn, seeks to capitalize on these issues to gain traction and present a viable alternative to the current government. As Greece continues to grapple with these political dynamics, the future of its political landscape remains uncertain and fluid. 🇬🇷🏛️

Polish Left submits bill to introduce same-sex partnerships

Poland's equality minister, Katarzyna Kotula, has submitted a bill to parliament proposing legally recognized partnerships for same-sex couples. This legislation, backed by The Left, a junior partner in the ruling coalition, aims to introduce tax and inheritance rights, as well as the ability for partners to change their surnames. The ruling coalition had previously promised to introduce same-sex partnerships during its election campaign, presenting a government bill in October 2024 that has yet to reach parliament.

The new bill, introduced by Kotula and 20 other MPs from The Left, bypasses the lengthy consultation process required for government-proposed legislation. It seeks to expedite the introduction of same-sex partnerships by presenting the bill directly in the Sejm, the lower house of parliament. Kotula emphasized that the bill is about "happiness, love, and security," providing legal recognition and rights to same-sex couples.

The ruling coalition is divided on the issue, with the centrist Civic Coalition and The Left supporting the bill, while the centre-right Polish People’s Party (PSL) opposes it. The centrist Poland 2050 is also reportedly supportive. The right-wing opposition, including the national-conservative Law and Justice (PiS) party and the far-right Confederation, strongly opposes same-sex civil partnerships. President-elect Karol Nawrocki, aligned with the right-wing opposition, has expressed openness to discussing a law on the status of close persons, which could grant some rights to same-sex couples.

Poland is one of the few EU member states that do not recognize same-sex partnerships, and the European Court of Human Rights ruled last year that this violates the rights of same-sex couples. If the bill fails, Kotula has pledged to pursue non-statutory solutions through regulations and government memos. The outcome of this legislative effort will significantly impact the rights and recognition of same-sex couples in Poland. 🏳️‍🌈🇵🇱

Greek, Swedish leaders meet in Stockholm

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson convened in Stockholm to explore avenues for enhancing bilateral relations, with a particular focus on economic and defense cooperation, as well as broader European issues. The leaders engaged in comprehensive discussions on Greece's efforts to safeguard minors from digital addiction, with Mitsotakis showcasing the Kids Wallet application and proposing a potential joint European initiative in this domain.

The conversation also delved into the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence (AI) in Europe, with Mitsotakis stressing the importance of balancing technological innovation and growth with a robust regulatory framework for platforms and tech companies. Additionally, the leaders exchanged views on bolstering European economic competitiveness and strengthening collective defense. Mitsotakis underscored the need for increased funding to support shared European defense projects, citing recommendations from the recent Mario Draghi report. The upcoming Multiannual Financial Framework of the European Union was also a topic of discussion. 🇬🇷🇸🇪🤝

‘One by one, the fields are being built over’

The picturesque Greek island of Naxos is grappling with the consequences of rapid tourism-driven development, which is increasingly threatening its traditional agricultural way of life. Farmers and livestock breeders, who once dominated the island's economy, now find themselves marginalized as tourism infrastructure encroaches on their lands and depletes vital water resources. The shift began in the 1990s when coastal plots, previously considered worthless, became prime real estate. This transformation has led to a power struggle, with tourism investors gaining influence at the expense of the agricultural community.

The island's farmers face numerous challenges, including water scarcity, soaring costs, and competition from foreign markets. Declining rainfall and the prioritization of drinking water for tourists over agricultural use have exacerbated the situation. In 2019, tensions boiled over when the municipal authority attempted to divert farmers' water supply to the capital, leading to protests and the intervention of riot police. The COVID-19 pandemic temporarily eased the pressure, but the issue resurfaced with a vengeance in 2022, despite the addition of a desalination plant.

The water dispute highlighted a deeper issue: the rapid development of tourism is undermining the island's livability and authenticity. Farmers report that their wells are drying up, and their irrigation systems are being disrupted by new construction. The economic transformation is structural, with fewer but larger farms and vineyards emerging, but the tension with tourism persists. The divide between the coastal zones, which are booming with tourism, and the rest of the island is widening, leading to overtourism in some areas and depopulation in others.

The Naxos Festival recently hosted a forum on sustainable development, emphasizing the need to bridge the gap between the island's agricultural and tourism sectors. Architects and hoteliers alike warn that the island's unique charm and authenticity are at stake. The mayor acknowledges the disparities but believes that tourism is modernizing the local economy. However, critics argue that unchecked development is putting the island's future at risk. The call to action is clear: Naxos must find a way to balance tourism growth with the preservation of its agricultural heritage and natural environment, or risk losing the very qualities that make it a sought-after destination. 🌊🏠🌱

The Sinai Verdict and the Limits of Greek Diplomacy

Greece's foreign policy is marked by a delicate balance between pragmatic national interests and a deep-seated cultural and religious heritage, particularly evident in its complex relationship with Turkey. This dynamic has driven Greece to form strategic alliances with countries like Egypt, Israel, and France, sharing a common mistrust of Turkey's regional ambitions. However, a recent Egyptian court ruling has strained Greek-Egyptian relations, as an appellate court in Ismailia effectively expropriated the historic Greek Orthodox Monastery of Saint Catherine in South Sinai. This decision has sparked outrage in Greece, with ecclesiastical leaders drawing parallels to the fall of Constantinople.

The Greek government's response has been measured, with Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis leading a delegation to Cairo to negotiate the preservation of the monastery's religious and historical significance. Despite domestic calls for a tougher stance, Greece is unlikely to escalate the dispute due to strategic interests in the Eastern Mediterranean. Egypt's cooperation is crucial in countering potential Turkish influence in Libya, where Khalifa Haftar's shifting alliances could impact Greece's maritime boundary disputes. In this geopolitical chess game, Greece must prioritize its broader strategic interests over the fate of the monastery, acknowledging its limited leverage in the face of Egypt's domestic policies and regional power dynamics. 🇬🇷🇪🇬🏰

'Rail golden age' - More and more people take French trains (despite strike threats)

In France, strikes by the national railway company, SNCF, are a recurring phenomenon, with at least one rail strike occurring every year since 1947. Despite frequent disruptions, SNCF has seen a remarkable increase in passenger numbers and profitability. In 2024, the company carried nearly 130 million passengers, a record-breaking figure that represents an 11% increase compared to pre-pandemic levels in 2019. This growth is part of a sustained trend, with SNCF reporting a net profit of €1.6 billion for the year, marking the fourth consecutive year of positive financial results.

The popularity of rail travel in France is evident across various services. High-speed TGV trains are particularly popular, with one in three trains running at full capacity. The low-cost Ouigo TGV services are also in high demand, operating at full capacity 60% of the time. Even local TER services, often described as the "cinderella" of the rail network due to underfunding and reliability issues, saw a 10% increase in passengers in 2024. Night trains, part of the Intercité network, also broke the one-million passenger barrier for the first time.

SNCF is working to meet the growing demand by ordering 115 new TGV M trains, although these will not enter service until 2026. In the meantime, the company is integrating more Ouigo services to partially offset the capacity issues. Despite ongoing challenges, such as threatened line closures and regional funding disparities, the overall trend indicates a strong and sustained preference for rail travel in France. The threat of strikes does not seem to deter passengers, as nearly 130 million people chose to travel by train in 2024, highlighting the enduring appeal of rail transportation in the country. 🚄💨

Latvian PM: Local elections were secure

Latvia's recent municipal elections were conducted securely, with no evidence of external influence, according to Prime Minister Evika Silina. Security experts and services confirmed the integrity of the voting process, despite initial reports of an external attack on the voting system, which were later debunked. While the Central Elections Commission (CVK) faced criticism for its handling of technical issues, Silina emphasized that the elections remained secure and that the results, particularly the landslide victory of Andrejs Elksnins' party in Daugavpils, should be respected.

The prime minister acknowledged the need for other political parties to reflect on their strategies in Daugavpils and highlighted Latvia's preparedness for hybrid threats. Technical glitches during early voting and election night led to delays in vote counting and communication issues with polling stations. In response to these challenges, several key officials, including the minister of smart administration and regional development, the chairwoman of the CVK, and the director of the National Digital Development Agency, faced consequences, with some resigning and others being suspended. Despite these setbacks, Latvia's security services remain vigilant and well-prepared to address potential risks. 🇱🇻🗳️

LATEST: How many applications for German citizenship are still pending?

Germany's immigration offices are grappling with a significant backlog of naturalization applications, a surge triggered by the June 2024 citizenship law reform under the previous federal government. This reform allowed dual citizenship for non-EU nationals and eased naturalization requirements, leading to a flood of new applications. However, immigration authorities were already overburdened before the law took effect, resulting in dramatically lengthened waiting times for applicants.

Processing times vary across the country. In Hesse, the average wait time is two years, while in Baden-Württemberg, it is 18 months. Hamburg sees an average of 13 months, and in major cities like Stuttgart and Frankfurt, wait times can stretch to 18 months to 30 months. Other cities like Leipzig, Düsseldorf, Cologne, and Munich also report substantial wait times, ranging from six to 20 months. Berlin's situation is particularly complex, with wait times depending on whether applications are digital or paper-based.

The number of pending applications remains high, with cities like Munich and Heidelberg seeing an 85% increase in open cases compared to the previous year. Mannheim experienced a 250% rise in pending applications. The primary issues cited by immigration authorities include staff shortages and an overwhelming volume of applications. Additionally, the process of obtaining necessary documents for identity verification can take anywhere from three months to five years, further complicating the backlog. The increasing number of rejected applications also contributes to the delays. 🇩🇪📜

Schengen hits 40: What problems lie ahead for Europe's border-free zone?

The Schengen Agreement, signed in 1985, marked a pivotal moment in European integration by establishing a border-free travel area among its signatory countries. Initially involving Belgium, West Germany, France, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands, the agreement aimed to abolish internal border checks and facilitate free movement among citizens. The convention was signed on a boat on the Moselle River, symbolizing the collaborative spirit of the agreement.

The Schengen Area has since expanded significantly, now encompassing 25 of the 27 EU member states, along with four European Free Trade Association countries: Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland. Romania and Bulgaria joined in January 2025, with Cyprus expected to follow in 2026. The area covers over 4.5 million square kilometers and is home to nearly 450 million people, facilitating the daily movement of millions for work, study, and visits.

The Schengen Agreement's primary goal was to eliminate internal border controls while enhancing external border security through shared information systems and cooperative agencies like Frontex and Europol. It also introduced a common visa policy for short-term visitors, allowing non-EU citizens to travel freely within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Citizens from visa-free countries can stay for the same duration without a visa.

Despite the agreement's intentions, internal border checks can be temporarily reinstated in response to security threats. Currently, several countries, including Germany, France, and Italy, have reinforced border controls due to various concerns. The EU is working on digitalizing the Schengen Area, with upcoming changes including online visa applications, a digital visa system, and the introduction of the Entry/Exit System (EES) to monitor non-EU nationals' entries and exits. Additionally, the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) will require visa-exempt non-EU nationals to obtain travel authorization before visiting the Schengen Area. 🌍🛂

'Bring your water pistols': Barcelona braces for tourism demo

This weekend, Barcelona is set to witness a resurgence of anti-tourism protests, with demonstrators planning to march through the city's streets armed with water pistols. The Assembly of Neighbourhoods for Tourism Degrowth (ABDT) has organized the event, scheduled for June 15th, under the rallying cry: "Tourism is stealing our bread, our homes, and our future: we defend the city, tourism degrowth NOW!" The protest aims to highlight the inflationary impact of tourism on the housing market, with average rents in major Spanish cities and coastal resorts soaring post-pandemic, largely due to the proliferation of short-term rental platforms like Airbnb.

The march will commence at 12 noon in the Jardinets de Gràcia, proceeding through key city center locations such as Passeig de Gràcia and Diagonal. Over 100 organizations from across Spain and Europe have endorsed the manifesto, with similar protests planned in cities like Palma, San Sebastián, Granada, Ibiza, Lisbon, Naples, and Venice. The demonstrators, which include trade unions and environmental groups, seek to disrupt "tourist routines" and advocate for policies to curb what they term an "economic monoculture" that is displacing residents. Authorities have advised city dwellers to use public transport during the march to avoid disruptions. The protests aim to target the tourism industry and gentrification rather than tourists themselves, although past demonstrations have drawn criticism for appearing overly aggressive. 🌊🏙️

UN ocean summit ends with boost for marine conservation, no mention of fossil fuels

The UN Ocean Conference in Nice, France, concluded with significant strides in marine conservation but faced criticism for not addressing fossil fuels, the primary driver of ocean warming. Over 60 heads of state and thousands of attendees gathered to discuss the urgent challenges facing the world's oceans, which the UN describes as an "emergency." Key achievements included progress toward ratifying a treaty to protect marine life in international waters, with 19 countries formally ratifying the pact, bringing the total to 50. The treaty needs 60 ratifications to take effect, expected by January 2026.

The conference also saw a strong push for global action on marine protection, including efforts to limit deep-sea mining and reduce plastic pollution. More than 90 ministers called for restrictions on plastic production and consumption, although oil-producing nations opposed these measures. Leaders condemned U.S. President Donald Trump's push for deep-sea mining, vowing to resist unilateral efforts to exploit the ocean floor. French President Emmanuel Macron and Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva were among those who criticized the "predatory" race for critical minerals.

However, the summit was criticized for not addressing fossil fuels, the primary cause of ocean warming. Activists and environmental leaders highlighted the need to confront the root cause of ocean degradation. Despite commitments totaling 8.7 billion euros from philanthropists and private investors for sustainable ocean development, wealthy governments were less forthcoming with financial pledges. The final political statement omitted any reference to fossil fuels, drawing criticism from environmental advocates who emphasized the need for concrete solutions rather than mere signatures. 🌊🏝️