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.
标签： Suriname
苏里南
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Column: Politieke vingers in de oliepot
The recent announcement of new appointments to the Board of Commissioners (RvC) at Staatsolie, Suriname’s state-owned oil company, has reignited debates over the politicization of oversight in state enterprises. The practice of distributing positions based on political loyalty rather than expertise or experience has become a recurring issue, undermining the integrity of governance. While it is common for governments to appoint their allies to key roles, the prioritization of party allegiance over competence poses significant risks, particularly in sectors critical to the national economy.
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Rudolf Elias: Zonder plan wordt olie een vloek, geen zegen
Rudolf Elias, the former Managing Director of Staatsolie Maatschappij Suriname N.V., has been appointed as the President-Commissioner of the state-owned company. In an interview with Starnieuws, Elias expressed his enthusiasm for contributing once again to Suriname’s future. He emphasized that without a solid plan, oil—and even more oil—could become a curse rather than a blessing. “We must collectively advocate for a well-thought-out strategy,” he stated. Elias highlighted the importance of a broad societal discussion and a robust roadmap to counteract the so-called ‘oil curse,’ citing examples from Venezuela, Nigeria, and Guyana. He warned that without proper planning, 80% of Suriname’s population could face increasing poverty rather than prosperity. Alongside Elias, Sergio Akiemboto (Chief of Staff at the President’s Office), Aroon Samjhawan, Ewald Poetisi, Rudie Chin Jen Sem, Chantal Doekhie, and Edgar Caffé have been appointed to the new Board of Commissioners of Staatsolie. Elias served as Managing Director from 2015 to 2020, during which Suriname made its first significant offshore oil discoveries. Under his leadership, the company charted a strategic course towards participation in offshore projects and the enhancement of local content in the oil industry. Since leaving Staatsolie, Elias has remained active as an entrepreneur, consultant, and speaker on sustainable development and energy policy. Over the years, he has been a strong advocate for transparency, good governance, and long-term planning in the energy sector. His return as President-Commissioner is seen within the industry as a step towards strengthening policy, oversight, and continuity in the strategic development of the company.
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Het is niet het volk dat faalt, maar de politiek
For generations, the stereotype that ‘Surinamers are lazy’ has been deeply ingrained in the collective consciousness. In recent years, another cliché has emerged: ‘Surinamers avoid entrepreneurship and prefer government jobs.’ However, it is time to challenge these narratives and recognize that the root of Suriname’s stagnation lies not with its people but with successive governments since 1975. Politicians often campaign on promises of fostering entrepreneurship, yet their actions frequently contradict these pledges. Behind the scenes, small and emerging businesses are discouraged or even dismantled to protect the interests of party sponsors and influential capitalists. What is most troubling is that the supporters of these political parties are often ordinary citizens—economically vulnerable and dependent individuals who may not fully grasp how their leaders systematically oppress them, sometimes even fueling division and racial tensions. As a society, we remain fixated on ethnic and political differences rather than addressing the true causes of our stagnation. If Suriname is to achieve genuine progress, its people—regardless of political affiliation, ethnicity, or religion—must hold their leaders accountable. Only by demanding responsibility for their policies and choices can we build a fairer and more prosperous Suriname. Sranan sa wini!
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Kind overlijdt na familiedrama aan de Cocobiacoweg
A harrowing family tragedy unfolded on Thursday evening around 8:48 PM on Cocobiacoweg, leaving a community in shock. Authorities received an urgent report of a man allegedly assaulting his wife and children while armed with a knife. Upon arrival, police officers and emergency medical personnel encountered a devastating scene. A one-year-old infant had sustained stab wounds and, despite immediate medical intervention, succumbed to the injuries. The suspect, identified as the child’s father, was apprehended at the scene. The mother and any other potential victims were swiftly attended to by emergency services. In response to the incident, relevant agencies, including Youth Care and Victim Support, were promptly mobilized. Law enforcement officials have launched a comprehensive investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding this heartbreaking event.
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Nieuw STS-II gebouw symbool van geloof in jong Surinaams talent
In a celebratory event on Thursday, the fully renovated Surinamese Technical School (STS-II), formerly known as the Lower Technical School, was officially inaugurated. This significant upgrade, part of the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Upgrade Initiative, was made possible through a joint investment of USD 330,000 by Staatsolie Maatschappij Suriname N.V. and its offshore partners, Chevron Suriname Exploration Limited and Qatar Energy. Located adjacent to the recently revamped NATIN complex, the STS-II building has been transformed into a modern, safe, and appealing learning environment, accommodating over 700 students training in various technical fields. The renovation project, executed in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, Science, and Culture and STS, included upgrades to the roof, windows, doors, blackboards, and restrooms, as well as the installation of a new hydrofor system and raised walkways to prevent flooding during heavy rains. Annand Jagesar, General Director of Staatsolie, emphasized the importance of this initiative during the ceremony, stating, ‘Students, Suriname is immensely proud to offer you this platform on an international level. Study and shine—for yourselves, your families, and our beloved country.’ The STS-II renovation is a key component of the broader TVET Upgrade Initiative, launched in 2021 to address the growing demand for skilled technical personnel in Suriname’s oil and gas sector. This program not only focuses on improving school infrastructure but also on enhancing technical education through updated curricula and modern teaching materials. By investing in local development, Staatsolie and its partners aim to equip young Surinamese with the skills needed to seize opportunities in the country’s rapidly expanding energy industry.
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3 Brazilianen veroordeeld voor beroving op goudconcessie; 2 vrijgesproken
In a significant legal ruling, three suspects—Del Aviz Costa, Antonio Carlos, and Ricardo de Lima Felippe—were acquitted by Judge Duncan Nanhoe on October 9, 2025, due to insufficient and unconvincing evidence. Represented by attorneys Arti Radja and Arjan Ramlakhan, the trio was cleared of all charges related to a high-profile gold heist in October 2024. Meanwhile, four other defendants—Dos Santos Alves, José, Dos Santos Pinto, and Santana Anapao—were each sentenced to five years in prison, assisted by lawyers Benito Pick, Pamela Karg, and Chandra Algoe/Guno Castelen. The robbery occurred at a gold concession in Jo Passie, Brokopondo district, where masked assailants armed with heavy firearms looted hundreds of grams of gold from slush boxes before escaping by boat. The suspects were apprehended days later. Defense attorney Arjan Ramlakhan argued that his client, De Lima Felippe, acted under duress, fearing for his life if he refused to assist the perpetrators. The prosecution, however, sought a five-year sentence for complicity, but the judge ruled in favor of acquittal due to lack of evidence. For the other defendants, the prosecution demanded eight-year sentences, but the court ultimately imposed five-year terms.
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Man verdrinkt in goudput bij Langa Tabiki
A tragic incident unfolded today in the Langa Tabiki area, near Pakira at kilometer 32, where a man lost his life in a drowning accident at a gold mining site. The local police in Moengo received the distress call around 3:30 PM, reporting the incident. According to preliminary information, the victim was engaged in work activities when he accidentally fell into a water-filled gold pit. Witnesses immediately raised the alarm and attempted to rescue him, but he was quickly submerged in the deep water. After some time, others managed to retrieve him from the pit, but he showed no signs of life. The police have arrived at the scene to conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding this unfortunate event.
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President Simons: Leger verdient modernisering, waardering en vertrouwen
In a landmark visit to the National Army, President Jennifer Simons, who also serves as the Commander-in-Chief, emphasized that the reform and strengthening of the defense organization are top priorities for her administration. Addressing the troops as the first female leader of the armed forces, Simons described the occasion as “a special moment, both personally and nationally.” She announced that the government is working on structural reforms within the defense apparatus, including modernizing the Commander’s Instruction Decree to clarify responsibilities and authorities within the military leadership. “A military cannot afford indecision. Discipline, clarity, and trust in leadership are the foundations of any army,” she asserted. Simons also highlighted plans to review other laws and regulations to make the command structure more transparent, efficient, and future-proof. “We will modernize the army step by step, ensuring it remains effective not only today but also tomorrow,” she added. The president stressed that reform involves not only change but also reinforcement. “Within the limits of our economy, we will invest in maintenance, training, and collaboration. I promise no reckless spending, but targeted investments that enhance the army’s capabilities.” Simons also pledged to improve salaries and benefits for military personnel, stating, “Soldiers cannot earn overtime like other professions, which is unfair and must be corrected.” She vowed to make decorations, recognitions, and career opportunities more transparent and equitable. Simons underscored the growing strategic importance of Suriname’s maritime zone due to the offshore oil and gas industry. “Protecting our maritime borders is not just a military task but an economic priority. We must strengthen our navy’s capacity as soon as possible.” The land forces, which safeguard internal security under challenging conditions, will also receive special attention. “The land forces protect not only citizens but also the economic lifelines of Suriname,” she said. Additionally, plans are underway to expand the air force as the economy allows, enabling aerial patrols to monitor the continental shelf. Concluding her speech, Simons called for cooperation and mutual trust. “Trust is the foundation of any military and society. I am here to strengthen that trust, not with empty words but with concrete actions.” She expressed pride in the soldiers, stating, “Suriname sees you, Suriname relies on you. Together, we are building a defense organization that not only defends but also inspires—just, efficient, and forward-looking. Step by step, we are creating an army ready for tomorrow’s challenges.”
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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.’