Monday, December 23, 2024

World news bites: China tests its biggest aircraft carrier

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Rorisang Modiba delivers daily updates from around the world.

China – China’s newest and most advanced aircraft carrier, the Fujian, embarked on its first sea trials from Shanghai, marking a significant development in the country’s naval capabilities. Xinhua news agency said the mission was designed to evaluate the carrier’s engines and electrical systems for reliability and stability. The Fujian, which was launched in 2022 after more than six years of construction at the Jiangnan Shipyard, has a displacement of 80 million kilograms, surpassing China’s other active carriers. 

Israel – Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says Israel will proceed with an invasion of Rafah in southern Gaza regardless of the outcome of talks with Hamas. The talks are aimed at securing a ceasefire and the release of hostages. This decision has raised international concerns, including from the US and UN who are emphasising the need to protect civilians. Rafah, where over half of Gaza’s population has sought refuge, faces severe humanitarian issues. Despite Netanyahu’s statement, there are indications that Israel might postpone the invasion if a ceasefire agreement is reached.

London – A 14-year-old boy has been killed in an attack by a man with a sword. The incident which began with a car crashing into a house in Hainault, also resulted in stabbings that left four others injured, including two police officers. The attacker, a 36-year-old man, was eventually subdued with a taser and arrested. He is now in the hospital for injuries from the car crash. The attack was also captured on social media.

Kenya – Heavy rains and flash floods in Nairobi, Kenya, have led to at least 91 people reported missing and 71 confirmed dead. The floods affected the town of Mai Mahiu, where a clogged tunnel under a railway bridge worsened the situation. The disaster has so far displaced nearly 191,000 people across Kenya, with Nairobi County accounting for 77% of the total displacements.

Pictured above: China’s newest aircraft carrier, the Fujian.

Image source: X

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