Civilians in Mogadishu, Somalia are fleeing violence as government troops clash with opposition-allied militias amid political turmoil. In Europe, the UK is challenging EU plans to cut tariff-free steel imports, while protests in Albania intensify over a luxury resort project backed by Jared Kushner. Meanwhile, Israel and Lebanon have agreed to a ceasefire amid ongoing military operations, and Oman is resisting US pressure regarding relations with Iran.

Somalia's Political Turmoil and Violence
In Mogadishu, Somalia, government troops and opposition-allied militias exchanged fire, resulting in property damage and civilian displacement. The violence erupted ahead of planned protests against President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud's decision to extend his term after its expiration in May. Former President Sharif Sheikh Ahmed reported that government forces targeted his home, while former Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire accused the government of using heavy weapons in civilian areas. Witnesses described the chaos, with civilians fleeing and injuries reported. The US embassy condemned the violence, urging all parties to resolve their differences peacefully.

UK Challenges EU Steel Import Cuts
UK Business Secretary Peter Kyle is set to meet with EU Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič to address concerns over the EU's plans to reduce tariff-free steel import quotas by nearly half. The UK steel industry warned that these changes could have devastating consequences, with industry leaders on both sides fearing retaliatory measures. The EU's proposed cuts could significantly impact British exports, raising concerns about the potential economic fallout for both regions as they seek to protect their industries from competition, particularly from China.

Protests Against Luxury Resort in Albania
In Albania, protests against a luxury resort project backed by Jared Kushner are escalating, with thousands taking to the streets of Tirana. Demonstrators criticize the lack of transparency and environmental concerns surrounding the $1.6 billion development. Prime Minister Edi Rama proposed discussions with protesters but remains committed to the project. Environmental groups warn that the development threatens unique biodiversity in the region, prompting calls for the project to be halted.

Ceasefire Agreement Between Israel and Lebanon
Israel and Lebanon have agreed to a conditional ceasefire following US-mediated negotiations, aimed at halting hostilities between Israel and the Iran-aligned Hezbollah group. The agreement includes the evacuation of Hezbollah fighters from southern Lebanon and the establishment of pilot security zones. Despite the ceasefire, fighting continued, with Israeli airstrikes reported in southern Lebanon. The situation remains tense as Hezbollah has not officially accepted the ceasefire terms.

Oman Resists US Pressure on Iran Relations
Oman is pushing back against US demands to sever ties with Iran, emphasizing its role as a neutral mediator in the Strait of Hormuz. The sultanate is negotiating a management system compliant with international law while maintaining its critical stance on regional conflicts. Tensions have escalated following comments from Donald Trump, who threatened military action against Oman. Oman's diplomatic efforts aim to uphold freedom of navigation in the strategically significant strait.

Wrap-up
This week’s global news highlights significant political unrest in Somalia, economic tensions between the UK and EU over steel tariffs, escalating protests in Albania against environmental degradation, a fragile ceasefire in the Middle East, and Oman's diplomatic balancing act in the Gulf region. These stories reflect ongoing challenges in governance, economic stability, and environmental protection worldwide.

Sources
theguardian.com

@hoju-korean.com Editorial Team