Latest news with #Persian
Miami Herald
39 minutes ago
- Science
- Miami Herald
Toxic predator is first-of-its-kind catch and four more creature encounters
The summaries below were drafted with the help of AI tools and edited by journalists in our News division. All linked stories were reported, written and edited by McClatchy journalists. Unique creatures, odd animals and new species are being discovered across the planet. Some are found lurking in remote corners of the world, while others have been hiding right under our noses. Learn more about some recent rare animal encounters from around the world: 10-foot-long predator — with toxic flesh — is first-of-its-kind catch off Mexico Off the coast of Veracruz, Mexico, fishermen caught a bluntnose sixgill shark, marking the first confirmed catch of this species in Mexican waters of the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean Sea. This nearly 10-foot-long shark, known for its 'robust body' and toxic flesh, was reeled in during a fishing expedition. The shark's presence confirms its distribution in the southwest region of the Gulf. | Published June 10 | Read More | Rangers open trap in Australia — and find 'unexpected' creature inside. See it In western Australia, wildlife rangers set traps to catch red-tailed phascogales but ended up capturing hopping mice instead, revealing unexpected behavior. These ground-dwelling rodents were found climbing trees to access bait, likely due to resource limitations during a severe drought. | Published June 12 | Read More | Black-tongued predator caught by hunter in Iraq. It's a first-of-its-kind record In the mountains of eastern Iraq, a hunter captured a Persian horned viper, marking the first documented confirmation of this venomous species in Iraq. The snake, known for its 'spade-shaped' head and black tongue, was previously only confirmed in neighboring Iran. This finding extends the geographic range of the Persian horned viper. | Published June 12 | Read More | 'Shadow caught on camera' ends creature's 500-year-long absence from Portugal Trail cameras in Portugal captured footage of a beaver, marking the species' return after a 500-year absence. Conservationists have been working to rehabilitate beaver populations, and this sighting is a significant step in the aquatic rewilding of Portugal's rivers. The beaver's return is seen as a symbol of hope and environmental recovery. | Published June 13 | Read More | Large creature caught on trail camera scavenging in Poland woods. See rare sight In Poland's Owl Mountains, a trail camera captured a Eurasian griffon vulture, a rare sighting for the area. This large scavenger, known for its impressive wingspan, was later spotted at a waste disposal facility, attracting crowds of curious watchers. The vulture's appearance in Poland is considered a 'sensation' by wildlife officials. | Published June 16 | Read More |
The Age
4 hours ago
- Politics
- The Age
For all its faults, Israel has been a scapegoat
To submit a letter to The Age, email letters@ Please include your home address and telephone number below your letter. No attachments. See here for our rules and tips on getting your letter published. MIDDLE EAST Patrick Kingsley's article, (' Israel has shifted Middle East dial ', 20/6), is refreshingly incisive in that it effectively challenges the narrative that Israel has been an imperialistic tormentor of Arab nations. As he points out, over a period of 20 years the region's only democratic state has, relative to its potent military strength, acted with restraint, its containment policy having allowed Hamas in 2006 to control the Gaza Strip, Hezbollah to operate in southern Lebanon and Iran's dreadful mullah-led regime in concert with the malign Revolutionary Corps to exist relatively unhindered. Meanwhile, Arab nations characterised by a mix of quasi-feudal, oil-rich and misogynist potentates have been viewed as lacking in agency; when, in reality, they have oppressed their populations terribly. In the case of Iran, a nation with a proud Persian history, the Western world has largely ignored the terrible consequences of its Islamist rulers' brutal oppression of a sophisticated populace since the late 1970s. Trump's dithering over whether to act decisively against a regime that has through its proxies been the scourge of the Middle East for too long says it all. Israel, for all of its faults, has for too long been a convenient scapegoat. Jon McMillan, Mt Eliza Trump has his finger on the trigger Samuel Colt, the American who made the mass production of guns viable, had a famous quote: ″God made man, Colt makes them equal″. US President Donald Trump with his statements appears to be channelling this notion with his threats of aggression towards Iran. History indicates that negotiating with a gun held to your head is a pointless exercise, while popular wisdom indicates that you should never point a gun at someone unless you are prepared to shoot. Therefore, the person with the gun to their head should always assume the gun isn't loaded. The gun holder has only two options – either pull the trigger or capitulate. Is Trump willing to pull the trigger and plunge America and the Middle East into chaos? The rest of the world should hope not. Peter Roche, Carlton Australian troops must be kept out of any conflict The late Tom Uren was a mentor to our current prime minister. Uren was a pacifist who decried the call to arms to pointless conflicts. I sincerely hope that his influence on Anthony Albanese lingers in his thinking to prevent the possibility of sending our young people to the Middle East at the behest of the US. Peter Taylor, Midway Point, Tas Does Iran have weapons or not? Benjamin Netanyahu has been saying – since 2012 – that Iran is only weeks away from developing a nuclear weapon. I'm not sure which timetable he's checking but surely they would have had several by now? And have possibly used them? Doesn't this bring one to the conclusion that maybe they don't? David Jeffery, East Geelong Ask Australian-Iranians Amin Saikal has written that there is no evidence that Iran has a nuclear bomb (Opinion, ″ Few believe Iran has nuclear weapons. We can't afford to repeat the Iraq War lie ″, 19/6). However, there is plenty of evidence that it has enriched uranium well above the level required for peaceful purposes. Also, it has given many millions of dollars of weapons to its proxy militias in Yemen, Iraq, Lebanon, Syria and Gaza. These militias could then use it to make ″dirty″ radioactive bombs. Saikal seems to be taking the line that this is like the war in Iraq, for those non-existent weapons of mass destruction. This could actually be read as a call for the left in the West to support Iran, a totalitarian regime that has not even bothered to provide its citizens with bomb shelters. Iran has been calling for ″Death to America!″ and ″Death to Israel!″ from its inception. There are plenty of Iranians now in Australia who have good reasons to fear this regime. Ask them what they think. Pia Brous, Armadale Lack of moral authority In his opinion piece condemning Israel's strikes on Iran's weapons-making capabilities, Amin Saikal (20/6) – as a counterpoint to US support for Israel – cites 'Russia and China [who] have condemned Israel for starting the war (with Iran)', as supposedly credible moral authorities. Is he serious? These are two brutal regimes: One actively waging an unjustifiable war of aggression against Ukraine, the other engaged in the systemic oppression of Uyghurs and Tibetans. Invoking them to moralise on Israel's actions against Iran – a regime that funds and arms terrorist proxies across the Middle East, and openly professes its ambitions to annihilate Israel – is astonishing. That Saikal relies on the support of such regimessays more about the weakness of his argument than it does about Israel's right to defend itself against a brutal dictatorship hell-bent on its destruction. Jonathan Bradley Slade, Toorak Deal making How about this deal? Trump tells Israel to stop bombing and Iran to stop retaliating for two weeks so Iran can come to the table whilst not under attack. If Israel doesn't stop, then the US doesn't help Israel and it is on its own. If Iran doesn't stop or doesn't come to the table then the US will join in the war. Surely, this gives both parties something to think about and is not so one-sided? Aren't good deals about negotiation, give and take with a win/win for both parties, not win/lose. Mira Antonioum, Brighton
Time of India
5 hours ago
- Politics
- Time of India
Missiles, Militants, and Markets: Pakistan's quiet alliance with Iran runs deeper than you think
Few know this, but 'Pakistan' comes from Persian: Pak, meaning 'pure', and -stan, 'land'. In Iran, the name quite literally means 'Land of the Pure'. As tensions flare between Israel and Iran, an unexpected regional realignment is unfolding quietly but unmistakably. While Gulf Arab states walk the tightrope between maintaining ties with the West and managing regional outrage, Pakistan has been bold in its stance: openly condemning Israeli aggression, expressing solidarity with Iran, and strengthening bilateral trade and strategic cooperation with its Shia-majority neighbour. But this is not just about ideology. Behind Pakistan's rhetorical support for Iran lies a complex web of shared threats, historical affinities, economic dependencies, and strategic repositioning that defy easy categorisation. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Play War Thunder now for free War Thunder Play Now Undo Militants, maps and mutual fears One of the most significant factors linking Pakistan to Iran is geography. The two countries share a 900-kilometre (560-mile) border, primarily between Pakistan's Balochistan province and Iran's Sistan-Baluchestan province. This region is populated by ethnic Baluch, a Sunni Muslim minority group that has long complained of marginalisation in both countries. These grievances have birthed separatist movements and armed insurgencies on both sides of the border. Live Events The militant group Jaish al-Adl (Army of Justice), formed by Iranian Baluch and operating from within Pakistan, is just one of several transnational threats both countries confront. According to Reuters, following Israeli strikes on Iran in mid-June, the group issued a call for widespread resistance, stating, 'Jaish al-Adl extends the hand of brotherhood… and calls on the people of Baluchistan to join the ranks of the Resistance.' As Israel targets Iran's nuclear infrastructure with a series of airstrikes, its officials have made no secret of a broader goal: to undermine, if not outright topple, the Iranian regime. In addition to fears of regional instability spilling over from Iran, Pakistan is also alarmed by the precedent Israel is setting by launching strikes on another nation's nuclear facilities. The concern is particularly acute given Pakistan's own rivalry with nuclear-armed neighbour India . The two countries were engaged in an intense four-day conflict as recently as May. This alarmed Pakistani officials, who fear the radicalisation of their own Baluch population and the possibility of a broader, united 'Greater Baluchistan' movement. This scenario was described by Islamabad-based analyst Simbal Khan to Reuters as a real risk. 'They're all going to fight together if this blows up,' Khan warned. 'There's a fear of ungoverned spaces, which would be fertile ground for terrorist groups,' said Maleeha Lodhi, a former Pakistani ambassador to Washington. The fear is not just theoretical. In January 2024, Iran launched unprecedented drone and missile strikes into Pakistan's Balochistan, targeting alleged militant sanctuaries. Pakistan responded with retaliatory airstrikes in Iran's Sistan and Baluchestan province, claiming to have hit "terrorist hideouts" belonging to Baloch separatist insurgents engaged in conflict against Pakistan, specifically the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) and Balochistan Liberation Front (BLF). Pakistan stated that these strikes were a manifestation of its "unflinching resolve to protect and defend its national security against all threats." The Iranian government stated nine foreign citizens, including three women and four children, were killed in the airstrikes. But instead of spiralling into prolonged conflict, both sides chose de-escalation, suspending cross-border trade temporarily but recommitting to border security cooperation. As senior Balochistan official Qadir Bakhsh Pirkaani confirmed to AFP, border crossings in five districts, including Chaghi, Panjgur, and Gwadar, were suspended. This response reflects a shared understanding: instability in one country risks fuelling extremism in the other. As Pakistan's military conveyed in its meeting with US President Donald Trump , a collapse of authority in Iran could lead to an influx of militants and refugees. Trump, referring to his conversation with Pakistan Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir , bluntly summarised: 'They're not happy about anything,' referring to Pakistan's views on the Israel-Iran conflict. Iran's energy lifeline to Pakistan Beyond security concerns, Pakistan's energy crisis makes cooperation with Iran essential. According to Iran's Customs Administration (IRICA), Iran exported $2.4 billion worth of non-oil goods to Pakistan in the last Iranian calendar year, ending March 20, 2025, making Pakistan its fifth-largest export destination. In the first two months of the new year alone, Iranian exports totalled $322 million, according to the Tehran Times. Meanwhile, Pakistan's exports to Iran stood at a meagre $43 million in the same period, down dramatically from $303 million in 2018. This trade imbalance has not dampened ambitions. In May 2025, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stated a goal of increasing bilateral trade from the current $3 billion to $10 billion in the coming years, a sentiment echoed by Iranian leaders, who acknowledge that current trade levels are "not acceptable" given the potential. The pipe dream that won't die At the centre of Pakistan and Iran's energy cooperation lies the long-stalled Iran–Pakistan (IP) gas pipeline , often called the 'Peace Pipeline'. First proposed in 1995, the project gained traction with a formal agreement signed in Ankara in 2010. However, according to the New Delhi-based Indian Council of World Affairs (ICWA), the pipeline has been mired in delays for nearly three decades, largely due to US sanctions on Iran and mounting pressure on Pakistan. While Iran has already completed its 1,100-kilometre section, Pakistan's 780-kilometre stretch remains mostly unbuilt. The pipeline is intended to transport natural gas from Iran's South Pars field to Pakistan's southern regions, including Gwadar and Nawabshah. Pakistan, citing a lack of funds, failed to begin construction on its side. Tehran even offered a $500 million loan to help Islamabad finance the pipeline, estimated at $1.5 billion for Pakistan at the time, but the project still failed to move forward. In a symbolic gesture aimed at pushing the project ahead, then-President Asif Ali Zardari and his Iranian counterpart jointly inaugurated construction in March 2013. That same year, then-Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif assured that Pakistan would honour its commitment. But those assurances did not hold for long. By 2014, not only had the project failed to make meaningful progress, but it appeared to be regressing. Pakistan considered abandoning it altogether, prompting Iran to withdraw its loan offer. Tensions escalated in 2019 when Iran threatened legal action against Pakistan for non-compliance. After years of inaction, Islamabad finally issued a force majeure notice in June 2023 under the terms of the Gas Sales and Purchase Agreement (GSPA), claiming circumstances beyond its control. Tehran rejected this notice, but the agreement was subsequently amended, giving Pakistan an additional five years to complete construction. Yet the consequences of inaction have been severe. According to ICWA, Pakistan has faced legal action from Tehran for non-compliance and owes up to $18 billion in penalties for breaching the contract as of 2023. In a cautious step forward, the Pakistani government in February 2024 approved the construction of an 80-kilometre segment of the pipeline near the Iranian border. The project will be financed through the Gas Infrastructure Development Cess (GIDC) and implemented by Interstate Gas Systems (Private) Limited (ISGS). Still, US opposition continues to cast a long shadow over the project. Back in 2013, Washington had warned Islamabad that going ahead with the pipeline could invite economic sanctions, and instead encouraged it to explore liquefied natural gas (LNG) alternatives. Despite the challenges, the pipeline remains critical for Pakistan's energy needs, and for Iran's ambition to bypass Western-imposed isolation. As reported by Global Energy Monitor and The Diplomat, Islamabad has asked the US for sanctions exemptions for this project, a request that remains unanswered. Interestingly, the pipeline was once envisioned as a regional connector. In 1999, India was invited to join the project, transforming it into the Iran–Pakistan–India (IPI) pipeline that was to extend all the way to New Delhi. But progress stalled, and India officially withdrew in 2009. Iran had also hoped to include countries such as China and Bangladesh, but those ambitions have yet to materialise. Allies then, allies now Iran was the first country to recognise Pakistan following its independence in 1947. During the Indo-Pakistan wars of 1965 and 1971, Iran stood firmly by Islamabad's side, offering diplomatic and military support. In 1965, Tehran supplied Pakistan with arms and ammunition. During the 1971 war, Iran again backed Pakistan, reportedly even considering the deployment of F-4 Phantom fighter jets. The two nations were also strategic allies during the Cold War. Both were founding members of the Central Treaty Organization (CENTO), formed on February 24, 1955, by Iran, Iraq, Pakistan, Turkey, and the United Kingdom. Backed by the West, CENTO aimed to curb Soviet expansion in the Middle East and South Asia. Although the alliance dissolved in 1979 following the Iranian Revolution, the shared threat of communist influence, and later, concerns over drug trafficking, cross-border insurgencies, and smuggling, kept channels of cooperation open. Cultural ties have further deepened the relationship. Persian language, literature, and political philosophy have left a lasting imprint on Pakistani intellectual and cultural life, influencing everything from poetry to statecraft. Even after Iran's 1979 Islamic Revolution, Pakistan was among the first nations to recognise the new regime. Despite international pressure, Islamabad extended support to Tehran during the Iran–Iraq War (1980–1988) , highlighting the resilience of their strategic calculus. Pakistan bets east, not west Pakistan's deepening alignment with Iran also reflects a shifting geopolitical calculation. Islamabad has long tried to balance its ties with Saudi Arabia and the United States, both adversaries of Tehran, but changing global dynamics are pulling Pakistan eastward. Since the start of Israel's bombing campaign, Pakistan has positioned itself as one of the few Muslim-majority countries refusing to normalise relations with Israel. Countries such as the UAE, Bahrain, Morocco, and Sudan have formalised ties with Tel Aviv under the Abraham Accords. Pakistan, meanwhile, has maintained that normalisation will not occur unless Palestinian statehood is assured. Since October 2023, Pakistan's Foreign Ministry has repeatedly condemned Israeli airstrikes on Iran, calling them violations of sovereignty. On June 20, 2025, Reuters reported that Pakistan's Foreign Office spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan, speaking at a press briefing, said: 'This is for us a very serious issue... It imperils the entire regional security structures, it impacts us deeply.' He further stated, 'Iran has the right to defend itself under the UN Charter.' According to the same Reuters report, Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar has spoken with foreign ministers of Iran, Turkey, Egypt, the UAE, and the UK, warning that 'Israeli actions against Iran can have dangerous effects in the region and beyond.' Iranian officials have welcomed Pakistan's position. Several Iranian parliamentarians publicly thanked Islamabad, and there have been unconfirmed reports of Pakistani military delegations visiting Tehran. While Pakistan denies supplying military aid, its consistent diplomatic support has signalled a clear strategic pivot. This emerging alignment brings Pakistan closer to Iran's key allies: China and Russia. All three countries have condemned Israeli actions and share an interest in limiting US influence in West and South Asia. As noted by the Foundation for Defense of Democracies (FDD), Turkey has also escalated its rhetoric, with President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan accusing Israel of 'setting the entire region on fire'. The idea of a growing Iran–China–Pakistan–Russia axis is no longer implausible. For Pakistan, closer ties with this bloc offer diplomatic protection, economic opportunity, and greater strategic leverage, especially as it seeks to expand Chinese investment through the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a project that overlaps with Iranian ambitions at the Chabahar port. Iran has repeatedly expressed interest in joining CPEC as part of China's broader Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), a vision that depends on regional stability, particularly in Iran and Pakistan. With Gwadar (in Pakistan) and Chabahar (in Iran) positioned as key regional trade hubs, collaboration between the two neighbours becomes even more crucial. Back in 2015, on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), then-President Hassan Rouhani publicly expressed Iran's interest in becoming part of CPEC, emphasising the importance of regional connectivity for peace and development. Partners in survival? Pakistan's support for Iran amid Israeli aggression is no knee-jerk reaction. It is a calibrated stance rooted in geography, history, security, economics, and shifting alliances. While some see it as an ideological solidarity with a fellow Muslim nation, the reality is more pragmatic. Pakistan cannot afford a destabilised Iran. It fears spillover violence, refugee influxes, energy shortages, and economic penalties from unmet obligations. It also sees opportunity: in trade, in diplomacy, and in regional rebalancing.
Wales Online
5 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Wales Online
Merthyr Food Festival 2025 returns for foodie fun and free family entertainment
The Merthyr Food Festival, an annual celebration of gastronomy and community spirit, is all set to return on Saturday, July 19. Running from 10am until 6pm, this year's event promises a flavour-packed day filled with foodie delights, live music, and free family entertainment, making it the perfect summer outing for residents and tourists alike. And the best part is that it's completely free. Steeped in rich history and cultural significance, Merthyr Tydfil was once a thriving hub during the industrial revolution. Today, the scenic location is popular not only for its historical charm but also for its vibrant community and scenic beauty. Nestled amid the stunning Brecon Beacons National Park, the town provides an ideal base for exploring the natural landscapes of South Wales. This blend of natural beauty, exciting attractions and lively cultural events makes it a must-see destination for this summer. And whether you're a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or a foodie, the Merthyr Tydfil Food Festival is the perfect opportunity to visit and discover something special. Explore a range of flavours (Image: The Big Heart of Merthyr Tydfil) Taking place in Penderyn Square, the festival will feature more than 40 stalls offering a wide range of culinary treats. Visitors can expect to find everything from creamy cheeses and sizzling noodles to artisan pizzas and Persian stews. For those with a sweet tooth, there will be the likes of handmade fudge, gooey brownies, cookies, and crepes to indulge in. And let's not forget the chutneys, cocktails, ciders, and other treats. Please note alcoholic products are only available to people aged 18+. Merthyr Food Festival follows the 'challenge 25 policy' so you may be asked for ID when purchasing. Please drink responsibly. Do not drink if you are pregnant. Do not drink and drive. Fun for all the family (Image: The Big Heart of Merthyr Tydfil) Merthyr Food Festival promises more than just great food, it's packed with fun street entertainment for all ages. Visitors can expect a grand (and slightly over-the-top) greeting from The Welcoming Committee, and they should watch out for the health and safety inspectors who will be on a mission to spot every hazard. Attendees should also make sure they don't miss Wanda & Rhonda - the hilarious tea-trolley waitresses serving up sweet treats, gossip and chaos in equal measure. For the youngsters, Catita will be offering fantastic face painting services, transforming their little faces into magical masterpieces. Plus, there will be balloon modelling and much more. Four brilliant bands will provide live music throughout the day, including The Breakfast Club and The Riverside Buskers, guaranteed to keep everyone entertained with feel-good tunes, dancing on the square, and festival vibes all day long. The Merthyr Food Festival offers more than just tasty cuisine; it's a community celebration that brings together local businesses and families for a day of fun and festivities. Everyone can explore the diverse culinary offerings of the town and bring their loved ones along for a great day out. To find out more, visit
Euronews
8 hours ago
- Politics
- Euronews
How social media is fueling the Israel-Iran conflict
As missiles fall on Israel and Iran, civilians face a second battlefield: the online space. Since the beginning of Israel's offensive, communication tools have come under increasing control - both for spying on the enemy and for suppressing dissent. New restrictions have been imposed on the population in Israel. Meanwhile, in Iran, long accustomed to censorship, repression has reached new heights. During the 7 October Hamas attack on Israel, one of the targets was the Nahal Oz military base. An investigation published in March revealed that the assault was made possible in part by public social media posts from soldiers themselves, which allowed Hamas to map the layout of the facility. Since then, Israeli soldiers have been banned from taking photographs inside IDF facilities or using platforms like Facebook. The aim is to prevent enemies from building intelligence profiles. Even documenting events such as ceremonies or gatherings with civilians is now prohibited. A Stanford University article explains how social media can offer a tactical advantage to adversaries: 'The phenomenon of 'geotagging' – the process of adding geographical identification metadata to various media – is particularly sensitive as it can reveal specific locations of military units or vulnerable civilian populations.' It adds that social media is a double-edged sword in modern warfare: 'While it can offer a lifeline and a platform to some, it also presents a significant intelligence resource for others.' On Wednesday, Israel's military censor, Brigadier General Kobi Mandelblit, warned that anyone sharing details about the location of strikes — including via social media, blogs, or chat apps — must submit the content for prior review or face prosecution. Iran is also acutely aware of these risks. On Saturday, the Revolutionary Guard issued a statement warning that any 'exchange of information' perceived as aiding Israel would be met with the harshest punishment — which could include social media posts or images. Babak Kamiar, the head of Euronews' Persian desk, said that the maximum punishment indicated in the sentence is 'the death penalty for sure'. State television went so far as to urge Iranians to delete WhatsApp from their phones, claiming the app shares user data with Israel. WhatsApp denied the accusation, stating that it does not track users' locations and that its end-to-end encryption ensures message privacy. In 2022, Iran blocked access to WhatsApp and Google Play during nationwide protests sparked by the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini while in police custody. The apps remained unavailable for over two years, until access was restored in December 2024. Social media isn't just a tool for spying, it also serves as a real-time political barometer. 'Being able to track social media content is a very important strategic asset. It's an instant polling device, really,' Philip Seib, Professor Emeritus of Journalism and Public Diplomacy at the USC Annenberg School, told Euronews. 'The public's social media can provide some hints about the intent of the population. Are they rallying around their government?' Authorities are closely monitoring these signs. On Saturday, Israeli police arrested a man at his home after he posted an image of the Iranian flag, a salute emoji, and a message of support. By Monday, Israel's National Security Minister, Itamar Ben Gvir, vowed a zero-tolerance approach toward any 'expressions of joy' over Iranian attacks on Israel. Seib also explained how foreign governments could be watching these signs closely. 'If I were Donald Trump, I'd want to monitor that situation closely. For instance, Netanyahu [the Israeli Prime Minister] might soon request more weapons resupply. But how much public support does he actually have in Israel?' Disinformation is rife online, and this conflict is no exception. Speaking to Euronews, Dr Sahar Khamis, Associate Professor in the Department of Communication at the University of Maryland, said dynamics seen during the war in Gaza are playing out again – with people getting informed more on social media than by mainstream media and so being subjected to misinformation or disinformation. 'Truth is the first casualty of war,' she said. Khamis noted the use of deliberate mistranslations of Israeli leaders' speeches, AI-generated images of missile strikes, and misleading out-of-context footage. 'Controlling the narrative is a crucial part of this conflict. Winning the information war matters almost as much as winning on the battlefield.' During previous escalations in Gaza, Israel demonstrated its digital warfare capabilities. In 2023, its foreign ministry paid for ads using graphic content, emotive language and even AI-generated video. These campaigns blurred the line between official messaging and psychological operations. Some were removed by Google after violating rules on violent imagery. Euronews' Arabic team uncovered several fake narratives online — from claims of a Mossad building being bombed, to an Iranian strike on Haifa's Bazan oil refinery, or Iranian defences downing two aircraft — all of which turned out to be video game simulations. Iran's government has a long-standing habit of restricting internet access during periods of unrest. In 2019, it imposed a six-day nationwide blackout during mass protests, during which authorities launched a brutal crackdown that reportedly left over 100 people dead. Since hostilities with Israel began, Iran has throttled internet speeds, leading to intermittent blackouts. On Wednesday, the country experienced a total outage lasting more than 12 hours, according to NetBlocks, a UK-based internet monitoring group. 'The government officially announced that they slowed down the internet because they want to be able to have cyber defence,' said Amir Rashidi, Director of Internet Security and Digital Rights at the Miaan Group. But he told Euronews the explanation doesn't hold up - cyberattacks have continued regardless. The timing is also worrying as it comes at a critical time, he added: 'For exemple, people trying to find alternative routes when they want to escape look at Google Maps — but it's not working properly. There are a lot of people lost in the middle of nowhere with no fuel or water.' In response to the outages, Elon Musk announced on his platform X over the weekend that he had activated Starlink, his satellite internet service, in Iran to help restore connectivity. The Irish Data Protection Commission (DPC) has said it needs more money to carry out additional tasks it now handles, including oversight of the EU AI Act. The AI Act – which regulates the technology according to the risk it poses to society – has already entered into force, but as of 2 August all member states need to appoint an oversight authority to ensure companies' compliance with the rules. In its annual report published Thursday, the DPC said that 'in light of new responsibilities and a significantly additional workload for the DPC as a result of the AI Act and other digital regulations [...] it is critical that we continue to receive funding increases enabling the expansion of our workforce.' 'The Government's continuing support will be critical to the DPC's ability to meet its EU wide responsibilities and the delivery of effective regulation in support of the digital economy,' it added. This year, the Irish already dealt with several AI questions, stemming from the launch of chatbot tools such as X's Grok and Meta AI. As the lead authority for Meta, it ordered the company to halt the tool last year due to concerns about the use of personal data of users of Facebook and Instagram to train its large language models (LLMs). Euronews reported in May that – with months to go until the deadline – in at least half of the 27 member states, it remains unclear which authority will be nominated as AI oversight body. In addition, countries need to adopt an implementing law that sets out penalties and that empower their watchdogs. Not all of them have yet done so. The Irish watchdog is currently overseeing the implementation of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in Ireland, including those of the global big tech companies that registered their EU headquarters in Dublin. It received some 11,091 new cases and resolved 10,510 ones, the report said. It gathered a total of €652 million in fines. Its staff increased from 213 in early 2024 to 251 as of 1 January.
