Syria's Assad regime was considered the narco-state par excellence, but its fall has led to a spread of production on a regional scale. Constant demand and growing distribution fuel trafficking. Among the new production centres is Yemen, home to the Houthi rebels. Today, the heart of production takes place in small laboratories scattered throughout various countries.
At least four people are reported dead in the attack that saw the Yemeni group resume hostilities against maritime trade in the Red Sea in retaliation for the war in Gaza. Ten have been rescued, but the rest of the crew, mostly Filipinos, are still missing. Stella Maris appeals to the Manila government: ‘The safety of seafarers must be protected.’ Sunday is the day when the Church focuses on workers at sea.
In a situation that remains “worrying” despite the ceasefire between Israel and Iran, Monsignor Martinelli recalls that “the possibility of dialogue must never be abandoned”. The document on brotherhood is a “response of peace to violence”. Prayer and friendship initiatives at the Abrahamic Family House in the footsteps of St Francis. Places are needed to “experience hope, peace and reconciliation”.
Developed by Iran for 20 years as a deterrent, the "Axis of Resistance" is keeping a low profile in this war. From the Iraqi prime minister to the religious leader al-Sadr, the order is to "silence" the "reckless voices" that want to start a war. At least 20 Muslim and Arab nations sign a statement for a nuclear-free Middle East "without exceptions" (a reference to Israel).
The pro-Iranian rebel group hits near Ben Gurion airport, announce an offensive on airports to block air traffic. For the first time, Israel has admitted that it has been hit and doubts are emerging about the effectiveness of its defences. The Netanyahu government approves an operation to seize Gaza, at the expense of the hostages, angering their families.
A US air raid against a detention centre last Sunday killed at least 68 people from Africa. Since mid-March, US and UK planes hit at least a thousand targets. Advocacy groups report at least 400 civilians killed. Pope Francis is among the few voices who spoke out against the tragedy of migrants in the region.
