In a significant diplomatic breakthrough, Israel and Hamas have agreed to the first phase of a ceasefire in Gaza, marking a pivotal moment in the ongoing conflict. The agreement, finalized on Thursday after weeks of intense negotiations in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, was brokered with the mediation of the United States, Egypt, and Qatar. Both parties, along with U.S. President Donald Trump, confirmed the signing of the deal, which includes the release of hostages and Palestinian prisoners, as well as a partial withdrawal of Israeli troops from certain areas of the Gaza Strip. According to Reuters, the initial phase involves Hamas releasing all remaining Israeli hostages in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian detainees. Additionally, Israel will withdraw its forces to a pre-determined ‘initial line’ and permit humanitarian aid across all regions of Gaza. International reactions have been cautiously optimistic, with the United Nations describing the agreement as a ‘moment of hope’ while emphasizing the critical importance of compliance. The Palestinian Authority hailed the deal as a ‘necessary humanitarian breakthrough,’ while Israeli opposition leaders urged vigilance and oversight during its implementation. However, uncertainties remain regarding Gaza’s future governance and Hamas’s role in the second phase of negotiations, which will focus on reconstruction and demilitarization. Despite the immediate enforcement of the ceasefire, reports of sporadic clashes in parts of Gaza persist. Diplomats stress that adherence in the coming days will be decisive for the agreement’s success. President Trump called the deal a ‘historic moment that gives peace a chance,’ while Hamas spokesperson Basem Naim stated that ‘the Palestinian people yearn for security and dignity after years of suffering.’ An international monitoring team will oversee compliance in the weeks ahead, with hopes that this agreement lays the groundwork for a second phase aimed at sustainable peace, reconstruction, and political reform in Gaza.
分类： world
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News : Zapping…
Haiti witnessed a series of significant events this week, reflecting the nation’s multifaceted challenges and achievements. On October 9th, two armored vehicles belonging to the Bank of the Republic of Haiti (BRH) were targeted by heavily armed individuals at Champ-de-Mars. One vehicle carried soldiers from the Haitian Armed Forces (FAD’H), while the other was unoccupied. Fortunately, no injuries were reported in the attack. Meanwhile, in Delmas, Mayor Wilson Jeudy unveiled the municipal budget for the 2025-2026 fiscal year, projecting a record one billion gourdes. This marks a substantial increase from the previous year’s 800 million gourdes, aimed at enhancing the municipality’s investment capacity. On a brighter note, Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé praised the Haitian national football team, the Grenadiers, for their 3-0 victory against Nicaragua in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, expressing national pride in their performance. However, security concerns persist, as eight armored vehicles sent by the Haitian National Police (PNH) to Petite-Rivière de l’Artibonite were blocked by protesters demanding action against the ‘Gran Grif’ gang. In a separate development, the French Institute in Haiti is hosting the ‘Wild Haiti’ exhibition, showcasing the country’s rich biodiversity. Internationally, U.S. President Trump signed an executive order imposing a $5,000 fine for each illegal alien aged 14 or older detained, with no possibility of appeal.
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Caribbean Airlines Cancels Regional Flights for October 10 Due to Tropical Storm Jerry
Caribbean Airlines has announced significant schedule changes to its regional flights due to the adverse weather conditions caused by Tropical Storm Jerry. The airline issued a travel advisory on October 9, 2025, alerting passengers to disruptions expected on October 10. Affected customers with confirmed bookings can rebook their flights without incurring change fees, provided the rebooking is done in the same cabin and completed by November 6, 2025. All changes must be processed through the Caribbean Airlines Call Centre or at a Caribbean Airlines Ticket Office. However, the airline has clarified that it will not cover transportation costs to alternate airports or hotel expenses for affected passengers. Specific flights, including BW 266 (Trinidad to St. Maarten), BW 267 (St. Maarten to Trinidad), BW 268 (Trinidad to Antigua to St. Kitts), and BW 269 (St. Kitts to Antigua to Trinidad), have been canceled. Passengers on these routes will be accommodated on the next available services. Caribbean Airlines encourages travelers to register for real-time flight notifications and updates via their website or check the flight status tab on the homepage for the latest information.
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Jerry is passing just east of Barbuda this evening
Tropical Storm Jerry continued its west-northwest trajectory on Thursday evening, passing just east of Barbuda and posing significant threats to the northern Leeward Islands. The storm, with maximum sustained winds nearing 65 mph (100 km/h), brought heavy rainfall and strong winds to the region. According to the National Hurricane Center, the storm’s center was located near latitude 17.5 North and longitude 61.1 West, approximately 45 miles (75 kilometers) east of Barbuda, as of 8 p.m. Tropical storm-force winds extended up to 175 miles (280 kilometers) from the center, affecting a wide area. Tropical Storm Warnings remain active for Barbuda, Anguilla, St. Barthelemy, St. Martin, Sint Maarten, Guadeloupe, and nearby islands. A Tropical Storm Watch has also been issued for Antigua, St. Kitts, Nevis, Montserrat, Saba, and St. Eustatius. Forecasters predict that Jerry will turn northwest later tonight, with a slightly slower northward motion expected on Friday and Saturday. The storm is anticipated to bring 4 to 6 inches of rain to Barbuda and 2 to 4 inches to other parts of the Leewards, increasing the risk of flash flooding in low-lying and mountainous areas. Additionally, swells generated by the storm are creating dangerous surf and rip current conditions across the Leeward and Virgin Islands, with similar conditions expected to reach the Greater Antilles in the coming days. Residents and authorities are urged to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to mitigate the storm’s impact.
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VC Bird International Airport and the Barbuda International Airport Closed Due to TS Jerry
In response to the imminent threat posed by Tropical Storm Jerry, the Antigua and Barbuda Airport Authority (ABAA) has announced the temporary closure of both VC Bird International Airport and Barbuda International Airport. The shutdown took effect at 6:00 PM on Thursday, October 9th, as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of passengers, staff, and infrastructure. The decision was made following advisories from the Antigua and Barbuda Meteorological Services, which highlighted the potential risks associated with the storm. The ABAA has assured the public that updates regarding the reopening of the airports and the resumption of flight operations will be provided as soon as conditions improve. Authorities are urging residents and travelers to adhere to safety guidelines issued by the National Office of Disaster Services and to take all necessary precautions during this period. Further announcements will be made as the situation evolves. For those seeking to stay informed, the ABAA encourages monitoring official channels for the latest updates.
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WEATHER (6:00 PM, October 9): Shower and thunderstorm activity, gusty winds to continue today due to TS Jerry
Tropical Storm Jerry is intensifying as it approaches the Caribbean, bringing heightened risks of severe weather conditions to Dominica and surrounding regions. The storm, currently located approximately 140 miles northeast of Dominica, is moving west-northwest at 18 mph with maximum sustained winds of 65 mph. Meteorologists predict that Jerry will strengthen further, potentially reaching hurricane status by late Friday or Saturday.
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5PM Weather Update: Jerry approaching with Maximum sustained winds near 65 mph
The National Hurricane Center has issued a critical update on Tropical Storm Jerry, which is currently advancing toward the northern Leeward Islands. As of 5:00 PM AST on October 9, 2025, Jerry was positioned approximately 175 miles east-southeast of the northern Leeward Islands, with maximum sustained winds of 65 mph and a central pressure of 1001 mb. The storm is moving west-northwest at 18 mph, with a predicted shift toward the northwest later in the evening. A tropical storm warning is in effect for Barbuda, Anguilla, St. Barthelemy, St. Martin, Sint Maarten, and Guadeloupe, while a watch has been issued for Antigua, St. Kitts, Nevis, Montserrat, Saba, and St. Eustatius. Residents in these areas are urged to prepare for tropical storm conditions, including heavy rainfall of 4 to 6 inches in Barbuda and 2 to 4 inches across other islands, posing a significant risk of flash flooding. Additionally, life-threatening surf and rip currents are expected to impact coastal regions. The next advisory will be released at 8:00 PM AST, with a full update at 11:00 PM AST. Forecasters emphasize the importance of monitoring local weather updates and adhering to safety precautions.
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US Air Force plane touches down at Piarco Airport
A United States Air Force (USAF) C17 aircraft touched down at Piarco International Airport on October 9, sparking widespread speculation on social media. Many speculated that the arrival was linked to ongoing US military operations in the Caribbean Sea, particularly against Venezuelan narco-terrorists. However, the US Embassy in Port of Spain clarified that the aircraft was there to repatriate the remains of a US embassy official who had passed away on October 2. The embassy expressed gratitude for the support of the Trinidad and Tobago government and its people during this challenging time. Despite the official explanation, social media users remained skeptical, with some claiming the US military was using Trinidad as a staging ground for actions against Venezuela. The aircraft departed Piarco later that afternoon after completing its mission.
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Havenbeheer: faciliteiten voldoen aan internationale veiligheidsnormen
The N.V. Havenbeheer Suriname has issued a statement reaffirming that its port facilities fully comply with international safety standards. This declaration comes in response to Suriname’s inclusion on the U.S. Coast Guard’s (USCG) ‘Condition of Entry’ list, which mandates additional inspections for ships originating from countries where deficiencies have been identified. The Dr. Jules Sedney Terminal and the Oil Terminal, both managed by N.V. Havenbeheer, are ISPS-certified and meet all requirements of the International Ship and Port Facility Security (ISPS) Code. The company clarified that the USCG’s concerns pertain to other facilities not under its jurisdiction. During the most recent USCG visit last month, no deficiencies were found at the Dr. Jules Sedney Terminal, which was even recognized as a ‘Best Practice’ example. N.V. Havenbeheer conducts regular training, drills, and safety checks in collaboration with local police, fire departments, customs, emergency services, and international partners. On September 12, a meeting was held with U.S. Ambassador Robert Faucher, who explained the USCG’s decision. Havenbeheer presented its recent inspection results and safety initiatives during the discussion. The company also highlighted that the temporary suspension of ISPS certificates in early September has since been lifted. N.V. Havenbeheer remains committed to investing in safety and professionalism, stating, ‘Our ports meet all international standards. We will continue to collaborate with national and international agencies to further strengthen Suriname’s maritime security.’
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Tropical Storm Jerry Expected Near Northern Leeward Islands This Evening and Tonight
A tropical storm warning has been activated for the Northern Leeward Islands as Tropical Storm Jerry advances toward the region. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) has alerted residents to brace for strong winds, heavy rainfall, and hazardous marine conditions expected to impact the area later this evening and into the night. As of the latest advisory, Jerry is projected to pass near or just north of the Leeward Islands within the next several hours, with maximum sustained winds recorded at 65 mph (100 km/h) and potential for higher gusts. The storm’s center is currently located approximately 200 miles east of Antigua, moving west-northwest at a speed of 17 mph (28 km/h). Authorities in Antigua and Barbuda, St Kitts and Nevis, Anguilla, and neighboring islands have urged residents to take immediate precautions. Flash flooding in low-lying areas and dangerous surf conditions are anticipated, with swells from Jerry expected to affect the Lesser Antilles, producing life-threatening rip currents. Meteorologists predict slight strengthening of the storm before it encounters less favorable conditions over the weekend. Residents are advised to stay informed through official updates and adhere to instructions from local disaster management authorities.