Hong Kong: Wave of tax audits targets independent journalists

Today's headlines: Gaza, at least 93 dead since yesterday; "warning shots" fired near foreign diplomats in Jenin. In North Korea, a technical incident damages a new warship, Kim: "a criminal act". Delhi, professor released on bail: under investigation for comments on the India-Pakistan conflict. Indonesian health minister criticised for unscientific claims.

HONG KONG

Hong Kong authorities have targeted independent media outlets and journalists through tax audits filled with errors. This was stated by the Hong Kong Journalists Association, raising fresh concerns about the state of press freedom. At least eight independent media organisations and around twenty journalists, along with members of their families, are believed to have been subjected to checks. Among the affected organisations are Independent Media, The Witness, Hong Kong Free Press, DB Channel, and ReNews.

GAZA - ISRAEL

At least 93 people have been killed in Israeli airstrikes on the Gaza Strip in the past 24 hours. International condemnation is growing after Israeli forces fired “warning shots” near foreign diplomats visiting Jenin in the occupied West Bank. Meanwhile, Israel has reportedly allowed the entry of 100 aid trucks. Israel is said to be open to a ceasefire in exchange for the release of hostages, while continuing its military campaign to gain full control of Gaza. Two members of staff at the Israeli Embassy were killed in Washington.

NORTH KOREA

Kim Jong Un has condemned a "serious incident" during the launch of a new warship, calling it a "criminal act" that could not be tolerated. Parts of the bottom of the 5,000-tonne destroyer were crushed, destabilising the ship. Kim has ordered that the ship be restored ahead of a key party meeting in June and that those involved in its design be held accountable for an incident that “gravely damaged the dignity and pride of our nation.”

INDIA

Professor Ali Khan Mahmudabad, arrested for comments on the India-Pakistan conflict, has been granted bail by the Supreme Court. An associate at Ashoka University, he was arrested on Sunday at his home in Delhi. However, the investigation against him has not been dismissed: a special investigative team of three members will continue to handle the case. Mahmudabad is prohibited from writing articles or delivering online speeches related to the subject of the investigation.

INDONESIA

Controversial plans and ideas from the Indonesian health minister have sparked calls for his resignation. Budi Gunadi Sadikin has recently faced criticism for comments such as claiming that taller people are “healthier and more intelligent.” Despite mixed reactions to his policies and his lack of medical experience, President Prabowo Subianto may still retain him in office.

CHINA - RUSSIA

Between January and April of this year, China exported over million worth of potatoes to Russia, compared to just million in the same period last year, according to Chinese customs authorities. This increase is due to a sharp reduction in potato production in Russia in recent years, leading to astronomical price hikes, as well as the block on exports from Kazakhstan, which is also facing a crisis in production.

IRAN - AZERBAIJAN

As a sign of renewed collaboration, Azerbaijan and Iran are conducting a joint military exercise in Nagorno-Karabakh, decided during the recent visit to Baku by Tehran’s president, Masud Pezeshkyan, who stated that “Iran will do everything possible to ensure that our relations reach a strategic value.”

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