Trial of South Sudan’s Riek Machar Begins Amid Renewed Conflict Concerns

The treason trial of South Sudan’s suspended First Vice President, Riek Machar, commenced on Monday under stringent security measures in Juba, the nation’s capital. Machar’s legal team has challenged the court’s authority to adjudicate the case, citing his immunity as a sitting vice president. Machar has been confined under house arrest since March, a situation that has sparked concerns about a potential resurgence of the brutal civil war that devastated the country between 2013 and 2018. That conflict pitted Machar’s Nuer forces against the Dinka-aligned loyalists of President Salva Kiir. Machar’s party, the SPLM-IO, has categorically denied all charges brought against him and 20 others, which include murder, treason, and crimes against humanity. These allegations stem from accusations that they orchestrated violent raids by the Nuer-dominated White Army militia in northeastern South Sudan earlier this year. At the special trial, held in a venue usually reserved for social events, Machar was presented in a dark suit and cobalt blue tie behind black bars. This marked his first public appearance since being placed under house arrest. President Kiir suspended Machar by decree earlier this month soon after the charges were announced. Court access was restricted to the state-run broadcaster. Machar’s lead attorney, Geri Raimondo Legge, denounced the tribunal, stating it was “unconstitutional, unlawful, illegal and void” due to Machar’s vice presidential immunity. He urged the court to immediately release Machar and seven other co-defendants—among them the petroleum minister—who were arrested alongside him. In rebuttal, prosecutor Ajo Ony’Ohisa Igele dismissed the defense’s claims as “unfounded and weak.” The government accuses Machar of backing the White Army militia, predominantly composed of Nuer youth, in armed clashes with government forces in the town of Nasir in March. These confrontations led to dozens of civilian deaths and displaced over 80,000 people. Both Kiir and Machar, now in their seventies, had been serving together within a fragile unity government established through a peace accord intended to end the civil war. Their relationship has been marked by decades of conflict, with Machar having a history as a rebel leader opposing Kiir. The trial’s outcome and its political repercussions will be closely watched as South Sudan navigates its precarious peace and stability.

Hong Kong International Airport to Halt Passenger Flights Amid Super Typhoon Ragasa Threat

Hong Kong International Airport is set to suspend all passenger flights for a 36-hour period beginning at 8 p.m. on September 23 until 8 a.m. on September 25, according to Qantas Airways. This precautionary measure comes as the city braces for Typhoon Ragasa, one of the most powerful storms to approach the region in recent years. In a statement, Qantas confirmed it will reach out to passengers affected by the closure. While the Airport Authority Hong Kong has not officially announced the shutdown, a spokesperson indicated that the authority is closely monitoring the situation and has initiated preparations to mitigate the storm's impact. The Hong Kong Observatory plans to issue the lowest typhoon warning signal at noon on Monday, with an upgrade to the second highest signal expected later that evening between 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. Weather conditions are predicted to worsen quickly starting Tuesday, with gale to storm-force winds anticipated to hit the densely populated city by Wednesday. Offshore and elevated areas could experience winds reaching hurricane strength. Residents have already begun preparing for the storm's arrival, with many queuing in supermarkets to stock up on essentials. Some staple goods, including milk, have sold out, while the prices of fresh vegetables have surged significantly in local markets. Cathay Pacific Airways, Hong Kong's largest airline, stated it is monitoring the typhoon's progression carefully. Though its current flight schedule remains unaffected, the carrier noted the situation may evolve depending on the storm's severity. As of this report, the Civil Aviation Department has not responded to inquiries regarding the airport's status. Meanwhile, the Philippines has taken precautionary steps, suspending work and classes across Metro Manila and several other regions on Monday as Typhoon Ragasa advances toward northern Luzon, bringing strong winds and heavy rainfall.

France Joins Western Allies in Recognizing Palestinian State Amid Gaza Conflict

During a global summit held at the United Nations in New York, France formally recognized the State of Palestine, joining other Western countries such as Britain and Canada, who took the same historic step over the weekend amid the ongoing Gaza war. French President Emmanuel Macron, who hosted the event, emphasized the need to "pave the way for peace" before announcing the recognition, which was met with applause. Convened by France and Saudi Arabia, the summit aimed to bolster Palestinian morale in their prolonged pursuit of statehood. Nonetheless, the recognition is seen as largely symbolic and unlikely to bring immediate changes on the ground, where the conflict continues unabated. Israel's most right-wing government has openly rejected the prospect of a Palestinian state while intensifying its military campaign against Hamas in Gaza. Following the October 7, 2023, attacks that killed over 1,200 Israelis, Israel launched a significant ground offensive on Gaza City, resulting in mounting casualties, with Palestinian health authorities reporting over 65,000 deaths. Additional European microstates including Andorra, Belgium, Luxembourg, and San Marino planned to recognize Palestinian statehood ahead of the UN General Assembly. Malta announced its decision earlier on the same day. However, Israel condemned these moves as detrimental to peace efforts. The recognition of Palestine touches on the dormant two-state solution, which was central to the Oslo Accords in 1993 but has seen no progress since 2014. Both Israel and the United States boycotted the summit, with Israel’s ambassador to the UN, Danny Danon, stating that statehood issues should be resolved through negotiations between the parties. Secretary of State Marco Rubio echoed Washington’s stance, warning that recognizing Palestine prematurely could exacerbate regional tensions. Yet, with violence escalating in Gaza and increasing settler unrest in the West Bank, some nations are pressing to act swiftly before the two-state solution becomes unattainable. France, spearheaded by Macron’s earlier commitment to recognition announced in July, is seeking to invigorate a movement traditionally led by smaller, more critical states towards Israel. While Palestine holds observer status at the UN, full membership remains unrealized due to the Security Council’s veto powers, especially by the United States. Within Europe, divisions remain. Germany and Italy, two economic powerhouses, have expressed reluctance to recognize Palestine at this stage. Germany underscores that recognition should follow political negotiations, while Italy labeled such recognition as potentially "counterproductive". In Israel, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to continue operations against Hamas until its destruction, rejecting calls to halt the offensive or acknowledge Palestinian statehood. He plans to announce Israel’s response to the recognitions upon his return from a meeting with the U.S. president. Potential Israeli responses include the annexation of parts of the occupied West Bank and targeted diplomatic actions against countries like France. However, attempts at annexation risk alienating regional partners, notably the United Arab Emirates, a key player that normalized ties with Israel under the Abraham Accords but warned that annexation would harm that progress. The United States has cautioned nations against punitive measures toward Israel for recognizing Palestine, highlighting the complex diplomatic environment surrounding the issue. This development marks a significant and symbolic moment in the Palestinian quest for statehood amid an intensifying and tragic conflict that continues to defy resolution.

Typhoon-Induced Flood in Taiwan's Hualien Leaves 30 Missing and Two Dead

Taiwan's fire department reported on Tuesday that 30 individuals remain missing and two fatalities have occurred in the eastern Hualien County after a barrier lake overflowed during Typhoon Ragasa's onslaught. The barrier lake, formed by landslides triggered by heavy rainfall, breached its banks in the mountainous region, sending a surge of water into Guangfu township in the afternoon. The typhoon, now advancing towards southern China, has been impacting Taiwan since Monday with intense rain, particularly in the eastern areas where nearly 60 centimeters (24 inches) of precipitation were recorded. Authorities have mobilized rescue teams from across Taiwan to assist in the relief operations within Guangfu township. The ongoing efforts focus on locating those reported missing and providing aid to affected communities. A fire department official stated, "The flooding caused by the sudden breach has resulted in significant disruption, and our teams are actively searching for the missing residents." The region's sparse population and rugged terrain have posed challenges to rapid response, heightening concerns over the severity of the disaster. The government continues to monitor the situation closely as Typhoon Ragasa moves closer to the mainland.

Japan and Allies Strengthen Security Cooperation Amid Rising Global Tensions

During a meeting held on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, foreign ministers and senior officials from Japan, South Korea, Australia, the United Kingdom, France, and Germany confirmed their cooperation to tackle shared security challenges impacting the Indo-Pacific and Europe. These challenges primarily include concerns related to China, Russia, and North Korea. The group issued a joint declaration emphasizing their mutual dedication to upholding core values such as free trade and the rule of law. The ministers also appeared to align their stance in response to the "America First" policy adopted by the United States under President Donald Trump’s administration. Highlighting the interconnected nature of security in both regions, the joint statement noted, "The peace, security and resilience in the Indo-Pacific and Europe are becoming more intertwined." The coalition pledged ongoing collaboration on cyber defense initiatives and countermeasures against hybrid threats, which combine conventional military actions with nonmilitary tactics, reflecting the complexity of modern security landscapes. This meeting signals a strategic effort by these nations to present a unified front in the face of evolving geopolitical pressures and maintain stability across critical international regions.

Tropical Storm Opong Strengthens, Bringing Heavy Rains and Gale-Force Winds to Parts of the Philippines

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) reported Wednesday that Tropical Cyclone Opong has escalated into a tropical storm with sustained winds reaching 65 kilometers per hour (kph) near its center and gusts up to 80 kph. As of 4 a.m., Opong was located approximately 855 kilometers east of northeastern Mindanao. Currently, there are no wind signals raised, and Opong is not expected to directly influence weather conditions over the next 24 hours. However, the storm, in conjunction with Tropical Storm Ragasa (formerly Nando), is enhancing the southwest monsoon or "habagat," resulting in strong to gale-force winds across most of Luzon, Western Visayas, Surigao del Norte, and the Dinagat Islands. Heavy rainfall is anticipated particularly in Zambales, Bataan, and Occidental Mindoro due to this monsoon activity. PAGASA also cautioned about the potential risk of coastal flooding caused by storm surges in low-lying coastal zones of Southern Luzon and Eastern Visayas, with storm surge warnings possibly being issued from Wednesday or Thursday onward. Forecasts indicate that Opong is expected to make landfall in the Bicol Region by Friday afternoon, subsequently moving across the Southern Luzon area through Saturday. The tropical storm is projected to exit the Philippine Area of Responsibility between Saturday night and Sunday, according to PAGASA. Officials continue to monitor the situation closely and advise residents in the affected regions to stay alert for further updates and safety advisories.

Severe Tropical Storm Opong Expected to Intensify, Threatening Bicol Region by Friday

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has reported that Severe Tropical Storm Opong, internationally known as Bualoi, may intensify further over the Philippine Sea and could escalate to typhoon strength before it hits the Bicol Region by Friday morning or afternoon, September 26. In its 11 a.m. bulletin on September 25, PAGASA noted the storm's maximum sustained winds at 110 kilometers per hour near its center, with gusts reaching up to 135 kilometers per hour. Forecasters indicated that while Opong is likely to strengthen, "marginally favorable conditions" could also keep it within the severe tropical storm category upon landfall. PAGASA expects the storm to weaken once it passes over land but cautions that it may regain strength after moving over the West Philippine Sea. At 10 a.m. on Thursday, Opong was located approximately 335 kilometers east of Guiuan, Eastern Samar, moving west-northwestward at a speed of 25 kilometers per hour. The storm is projected to move west-northwest, possibly brushing Northern Samar or making landfall in the Bicol Region by Friday morning or early afternoon, before crossing Southern Luzon later that day. It is forecasted to exit the Philippine Area of Responsibility by Saturday, September 27. Due to Opong's approach, Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 2 has been raised for several areas including Catanduanes, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Albay, Sorsogon, parts of Masbate, Northern Samar, parts of Eastern and Western Samar, and Biliran. These regions may experience gale-force winds within 24 hours. Signal No. 1 is in effect for a broader area encompassing parts of Luzon such as Isabela, Quirino, Nueva Vizcaya, Ifugao, Benguet, La Union, Metro Manila, Rizal, and several provinces across the Visayas and Mindanao, including northern Cebu and Dinagat Islands, where strong winds may occur within 36 hours. Beyond winds, Opong is expected to bring heavy to torrential rainfall, raising concerns over flooding and landslides. PAGASA warned of intense rainfall totaling between 100 to 200 millimeters in Northern Samar, Eastern Samar, Sorsogon, Masbate, Samar, and Biliran on Thursday. Moderate to heavy rains are forecast for Catanduanes, Leyte, Southern Leyte, and Dinagat Islands. By Friday, certain areas such as Sorsogon, Masbate, Northern Samar, Eastern Samar, Albay, Quezon, and Marinduque could see rainfall exceeding 200 millimeters, with widespread heavy rains also impacting Laguna, Batangas, Oriental Mindoro, Camarines Norte and Sur among others. Moderate to heavy precipitation is expected to continue into Saturday across Metro Manila, Zambales, Bataan, and Occidental Mindoro. The southwest monsoon (habagat), strengthened by Opong, is likely to produce additional rain over Zambales, Bataan, Occidental Mindoro, and by Friday and Saturday, rain could extend to Palawan, Antique, Iloilo, Guimaras, and Negros provinces. PAGASA has issued storm surge warnings of one to three meters across low-lying and coastal areas in Metro Manila, Central Luzon, Calabarzon, Mimaropa, Bicol, Northern Samar, Eastern Samar, Samar, Biliran, and Leyte within the next 36 hours. Residents in these vulnerable areas are urged to prepare for the possibility of strong winds, flooding, landslides, and coastal inundation. Fisherfolk and operators of small vessels are strongly advised to avoid venturing into the eastern seaboards as sea conditions are expected to remain rough to very rough. "We emphasize the importance of vigilance and readiness among communities located along the storm’s track," PAGASA spokesperson stated. "Continued monitoring and adherence to local government advisories is crucial to ensure safety."

Catholic Churches in Bicol Serve as Evacuation Centers Ahead of Severe Tropical Storm Opong

As Severe Tropical Storm Opong approaches the Bicol Region, select Catholic churches have made their facilities available to evacuees seeking safe shelter. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) reported at 5 p.m. that tropical cyclone wind signals are currently in effect across parts of the region. The churches offering temporary refuge include Nuestra Señora de la Porteria Church in Daraga, Albay; Holy Family Parish in Tabaco, Albay; Nuestra Señora Del Santisimo Rosario Parish in Casiguran, Sorsogon; St. Padre Pio Parish in Legazpi City, Albay; Saint Anthony of Padua Parish in Presentacion, Camarines Sur; and St. Roch Parish in Taysan, Legazpi, Albay. According to PAGASA, Opong is projected to make its first landfall on Friday in either Northern Samar or the northern area of Eastern Samar, followed by a subsequent landfall in the Bicol Region. Local authorities continue to coordinate with community centers and places of worship to ensure the safety of residents vulnerable to the storm.

Typhoon Opong Makes Third Landfall in Oriental Mindoro, Prompting Widespread Alerts

Typhoon Opong continued its relentless path across Luzon, making its third landfall in Mansalay, Oriental Mindoro at 11:30 a.m. on Friday, September 26. The storm brought severe winds and heavy rainfall to the region. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) reported that Opong sustained maximum winds of 110 kilometers per hour near its center, with gusts reaching up to 150 kilometers per hour. The typhoon is currently moving westward at a velocity of 20 kilometers per hour. Signal No. 3 warnings have been issued for Batangas, Marinduque, Romblon, Occidental and Oriental Mindoro, the Calamian Islands, as well as sections of Aklan, where residents should expect intense winds and heavy downpours. Other parts of Luzon and the Visayas remain under Signal No. 2 and Signal No. 1 advisories. PAGASA cautioned about widespread heavy rains, damaging winds, and storm surges ranging from one to three meters, accompanied by dangerous sea conditions. Coastal communities at risk of flooding were urged to relocate to safer, higher ground immediately. Fishermen and operators of small boats were strongly advised against going out to sea. Emergency authorities confirmed that evacuation centers are prepared and response teams are on high alert as Typhoon Opong advances through the country. Looking ahead, PAGASA forecasts that Opong will leave the Philippine Area of Responsibility by Saturday, September 27. However, the storm has the potential to regain strength and develop into a full typhoon once it reaches the West Philippine Sea.

Typhoon Bualoi Claims Three Lives in Central Philippines Amid Widespread Disruptions

At least three people lost their lives in the Philippines as Tropical Storm Bualoi intensified into a typhoon before making landfall on Thursday, sweeping across central islands and the southern part of Luzon. This event occurred just days after Super Typhoon Ragasa devastated northern regions, causing 14 deaths in the Philippines and additional casualties in Taiwan. Bualoi struck Eastern Samar in central Philippines before moving westward through Masbate and the Bicol region of southern Luzon. Authorities have confirmed the three fatalities occurred in Masbate province: one individual was fatally struck by a falling tree, another drowned, and a third died when a wall collapsed. Masbate Governor Antonio Kho urgently appealed for central government assistance during a media briefing, emphasizing the immediate need to clear debris, restore electricity, and reopen critical ports to facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid. The storm brought intense rainfall, strong winds, power interruptions, and damage to crops and infrastructure across Southern Luzon. Ahead of the storm, local governments conducted preemptive evacuations affecting hundreds of thousands, including residents of Metro Manila. JC Borromeo, displaced with his three children, shared his concerns from an evacuation center, noting the risks posed by rising river waters near their home. Bualoi features maximum sustained winds of 110 kilometers per hour with gusts reaching up to 135 kph. Meteorological agencies forecast that the storm will regain typhoon strength as it advances toward Vietnam. The Vietnamese government issued warnings for the northern and central coastal regions, expecting the storm to arrive by Monday, September 28. Officials anticipate heavy downpours between September 28 and September 30, posing risks of severe flooding in urban, industrial, and low-lying areas. Rainfall accumulations could reach 150 millimeters within 24 hours, according to the national weather service. The progression of Bualoi underscores the ongoing challenges faced by Southeast Asian nations during this active storm season, intensifying the need for preparedness and swift disaster response.