Latest News Updates: Myanmar Earthquake, Trump’s Anger Towards Putin, Gaza Conflict, Australian Sportsperson of the Year
Four survivors have been miraculously pulled from the rubble in Myanmar, days after a devastating 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck, claiming the lives of 1,700 people. The search efforts continue as hundreds remain missing in Myanmar and neighbouring Thailand.
Trevor Clark, the regional chief of emergency operations at the UN Children’s Fund, UNICEF, is leading the efforts to provide essential supplies to those affected. “Tents, dignity kits, hygiene kits, recreational kits as well. So, what we are attempting to do is get the initial supplies on the ground, so that we can make sure that children have access to safe water. There is going to be some health supplies there as well. So, they will have some health services, and then also with recreational kits we will be able to make sure that they have a sense of normalcy in such a chaotic time as well,” he said.
The World Health Organization has classified the crisis as a Grade 3 emergency, the highest level under its Emergency Response Framework, and is calling for A$12.7 million to respond to the immediate health needs over the next 30 days. This includes saving lives, preventing disease, and restoring essential health services.
In other news, US President Donald Trump expressed his anger towards Russian President Vladimir Putin over his handling of a ceasefire in Ukraine. Mr. Trump stated that if he believes Mr. Putin is at fault for a ceasefire deal not being reached, he will consider imposing further tariffs on oil coming out of Russia. The two leaders are expected to discuss the issue this week.
Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that his Cabinet has decided to intensify military pressure against Hamas in Gaza. Despite Hamas agreeing to a new ceasefire proposal, Israel resumed its bombing in southern Gaza’s Rafah. Protests against the war in Gaza have erupted in Tel Aviv, with demonstrators calling for the release of remaining hostages.
On a lighter note, 15-year-old Macey Sheridan has made history as the Northern Territory’s youngest state Sportsperson of the Year winner. The talented swimmer is the first Northern Territory athlete to be selected for Swimming Australia’s Flipper Squad, after winning gold medals at both state and national championships. Sheridan is also the state’s 2024 Junior Sportsperson of the Year, showcasing her incredible talent and dedication to the sport.