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The Fourth International Academic Symposium on “Bronze Metallurgy and Xia-Shang Civilization,” part of the “Xiyin Forum,” kicked off on October 14th in Xia County, Shanxi Province—often regarded as the birthplace of Chinese archaeology. This event gathered over 40 experts from renowned institutions, including the British Museum, the French National Academy of Sciences, and universities such as Peking University and the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, to discuss the development of ancient metallurgy and its relationship with the Xia and Shang civilizations.

The Xia and Shang periods are pivotal in the development of Chinese civilization and represent a significant theme in archaeology. The Shanxi region, located to the east of the Loess Plateau and west of the Taihang Mountains, serves as a key area for exploring the Xia and Shang cultures. It offers insights into the political geography of these early dynasties and is crucial for understanding the formation and evolution of early states. Numerous archaeological sites, including Duxiaofeng, Yuanqu, Qianzhuang, and Jiuwutou, have begun to outline the foundational landscape for the study of Xia and Shang civilization in Shanxi.

Professor Frederik Rademakers from the British Museum presented a keynote lecture titled “Early Metallurgy in the Nile Valley: Challenges, Opportunities, and New Perspectives.” Meanwhile, Professor Oliver Pryce from the French National Academy discussed “Prehistoric Southwest Silk Road: Ancient Metallurgical Networks in the Southern Himalayas,” and Professor Pira Venunan from the Thailand University of the Arts provided insights into the metallurgy of the Bronze Age in Thailand.

In his presentation, Professor Zhu Fenghan from Peking University’s History Department analyzed archaeological findings to explain the sources of copper for the Shang people, suggesting that the Zhongtiao Mountains might have been a primary source for them. Professor Li Yanxiang from the University of Science and Technology Beijing focused on the survey and study of pre-Qin bronze mining sites, while Professor Chen Jianli from Peking University discussed technological innovations and management models in bronze metallurgy during the pre-Qin period. Additionally, Associate Researcher Nan Pu Heng from the Shanxi Provincial Archaeological Research Institute elaborated on the technological transformations in bronze production during the Spring and Autumn period.

Bai Xuebing, Deputy Director of the Shanxi Provincial Cultural Heritage Bureau, announced that in May 2024, a memorandum will be signed among eight archaeological research institutions from within and outside the province to establish a “Southern Shanxi Center for Xia-Shang Civilization Archaeology.” This collaborative effort aims to advance original and frontier archaeological research, striving for impactful results. Since its inception in 2019, the “Xiyin Forum” has hosted four sessions focusing on significant topics such as the 95th anniversary of the Xiyin site and the influence of the Xia period in China, garnering support from the academic community both domestically and internationally.

Lei Xing Shan, Deputy Director of the Xia-Shang Specialized Guidance Committee under the Chinese Archaeological Society, shared that there are plans to launch the “Research Project on the Shangxi Wang Civilization and Shang Dynasty Civilization in Southeast Loess Plateau,” which aims to center on Shanxi. This project seeks to clarify the archaeological chronology and development lineage of artifacts from the Jin and Shanxi areas during the Shang dynasty, fostering research on settlement societies and the progression of civilization, thereby positioning the study of Shanxi’s Xia-Shang culture as an international academic focal point.

On October 14, Xining reported on a visit by nearly 20 ambassadors from countries such as São Tomé and Príncipe, the Dominican Republic, Latvia, Armenia, and Sri Lanka, organized by the Chinese Foreign Ministry. From October 9 to 12, these diplomats traveled to various cities in Qinghai Province, including Hainan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Haidong City, and Xining, immersing themselves in friendly discussions about local ecological conservation efforts, clean energy, and green low-carbon industries, as well as experiencing the rich cultural diversity of the region.

As they strolled along the shores of Qinghai Lake, the diplomats were captivated by its stunning beauty. They learned about the lake’s expansion of green spaces, the integration of culture and tourism, and its designation as an international eco-tourism demo zone. Dominican Republic Ambassador Briuni Galavito remarked, “The beautiful scenery of Qinghai Lake holds immense development potential, but any progress must prioritize conservation.”

“While our eyes feast on the beauty, our hearts also feel healed,” said Isabelle Domingos, Ambassador of São Tomé and Príncipe. She added, “Regional tourism must discover its own unique charm and pursue sustainability, avoiding mere expansion to ensure a delightful experience for both visitors and locals.”

At the “nature classroom” within the artificial breeding and research base for the endangered Tibetan antelope, the diplomats hand-painted illustrations of local species such as the naked carp, the black-necked crane, and the Tibetan fox. They learned about Qinghai Lake’s commitment to intergenerational conservation and the concept of shared protection among all citizens, as seen in its unique ecological chain comprising “grass-river-lake-fish-bird.”

In 2023, Qinghai Lake covered an area of 4,540.98 square kilometers with a water level of 3,196.72 meters. Vegetation coverage reached 60%, and wetland protection stood at 69%. The lake hosts approximately 120,000 tons of naked carp, more than 3,400 Tibetan antelopes, 281 bird species, and a total of 606,000 waterfowl—all figures showing an upward trend.

“Completing this engaging ‘homework’ in such a scenic classroom felt like merging with nature,” remarked Jacqueline Bell, Minister-Counselor at the Jamaican Embassy. “Due to global warming and extreme weather events like hurricanes, my country faces significant developmental challenges, so we deeply acknowledge the importance of environmental protection and commend Qinghai’s beneficial practices.”

Qinghai Province boasts the highest proportion of clean and renewable energy installations in China. At the world’s largest photovoltaic power park—the Hainan Prefecture’s Gonghe Photovoltaic Industry Park—the ambassadors climbed a lookout tower to admire the expansive “sea of solar panels.” They explored how Qinghai leverages its abundant natural resources in “water-rich, solar-rich, and windy” conditions, practicing a green cycle development model that includes photovoltaics, sand control, and sheep farming.

“This ‘ocean’ represents a microcosm of a low-carbon China,” noted Bilal Chaudhry, Minister at the Pakistan Embassy. “Today, eco-friendly industries are essential to China’s economic development. The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor has reached its eleventh year, with clean energy projects at the core of our collaboration; China has continuously supported us with expertise, technology, and management experience.”

During their visit to the Tianhe Solar Energy base in Xining’s national economic and technological development zone, the representatives asked numerous questions regarding photovoltaic power generation efficiency, recycling, industrial chain development, and project investment.

“The comprehensive supply of the solar energy industry in China complements our national market demand, creating a win-win scenario. As an ambassador, I will tirelessly work to build this cooperative bridge,” added Isabelle Domingos.

Mahmoud Al-Sharif, the Comoros Ambassador, expressed hope for leveraging China’s technological advancements to aid their development, commenting, “The sun shines bright in Africa, and we wish to hop on China’s ‘fast train’ of innovation.”

In Haidong City, the ambassadors enjoyed performances from the Tu ethnic group’s folklore, sampled local cuisine, and engaged with artisans crafting “Qing embroidery,” fully immersing themselves in the cultural heritage of the region.

“We recognize that the younger generation inheriting their ancestors’ excellent traditions while remembering their heritage fosters a sense of identity and cultural confidence that prevents them from losing their way,” stated Burkina Faso Ambassador Abdou Doff.

“The Tu people are exceptionally hospitable, and generations have lived together harmoniously in towns that are both charming and distinctive, giving me a warm sense of home,” remarked Marvion Ma, the Grenada Ambassador.

“China’s greatness lies not in its territory or population, but in its rich history and diverse culture. In Qinghai, I truly felt harmony,” Isabelle Domingos stated before departing. “Qinghai has a clear understanding of its role in China’s overall development. Every individual, from the macro level down to the smallest unit, participates in the practice of nature conservation and shares in the ecological benefits. Beyond economic value, Qinghai offers a profound sense of value, enriching our hearts during this journey.”

Winning design has seven gardens weaving around the gallery on the shores of Canberra’s Lake Burley Griffin, doubling its showcase space
Follow our Australia news live blog for latest updates Get our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcastKelly BurkeThu 17 Oct 2024 07.52 BSTLast modified on Thu 17 Oct 2024 08.10 BSTShareThe National Gallery of Australia will embark on the largest investment in its grounds in more than four decades, with the museum announcing the winning tender to recreate its sculpture gardens on Thursday.
The National Sculpture Garden, designed in the early 1980s, will need to attract about $60m in philanthropy and fundraising to realise the design of the winning multi-disciplinary team CO-AP Holdings, comprising Sydney architecture company CO-AP and landscape and urban designers Studio JEF, TARN Studio and Plus Minus Design.
Ouroboros: NGA’s polarising new four-year $14m artwork to close roads on its journey to CanberraRead moreThe design includes seven interconnected gardens weaving around the National Gallery in a continuous circuit on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin, which will double the ground’s total space for showcasing art, culture and nature.
View image in fullscreenAn artist’s interpretation of a proposed new garden for the National Sculpture Garden. Illustration: Choirender/NGAThe sculpture garden’s existing marquee will be replaced with a permanent stainless steel and glass pavilion that will provide additional exhibition space, a new promenade and a multi-use campus square in the NGA forecourt.
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Will Fung, a Sydney-based architectect and leader of the winning team, said the four companies combined forces out of a shared love for the sculpture garden’s original design by landscape architects Harry Howard, Barbara Buchanan and Roger Vidler.
“It is the most important modernist landscape in Australia and provides a beautiful counterpoint to Colin Madigan’s magnificent gallery building,” Fung said, referring to the architect who won the Australian government’s competition to design a national museum for art in 1968. The project took 14 years and cost $82m.
View image in fullscreenA proposed new steel and glass pavilion for the gallery. Illustration: Choirender/NGAThe NGA’s director, Nick Mitzevich, praised CO-AP Holdings for its “thoughtful approach” that showed a sensitivity and respect for the garden’s history and heritage that will reconnect the museum to its surrounding landscape.
“The jury were struck by the devotion and care CO-AP Holdings had for the National Sculpture Garden,” he said.
“CO-AP Holdings understood the significance and gravitas of the existing garden and its legacy, but also the importance of bringing the garden into the 21st century.”
The judges’ panel, led by Philip Goad, an architect and chair of the Heritage Council of Victoria, was unanimous in its decision.
Next week the NGA will unveil perhaps its most controversial acquisition since Jackson Pollock’s Blue Poles in 1973. Lindy’s Lee’s 13-tonne sculpture Ouroboros, with an unprecedented price tag of $14m, was commissioned by the NGA four years ago.
Made from scrap metal, it has taken about 200 people more than 60,000 hours to complete. The name of the work, derived from ancient Greek, refers to a serpent or dragon swallowing its own tail as a symbol of eternal renewal.

The recent National Day holiday has spotlighted the term “culture + tourism” as a key driver for various attractions across the country. Red tourism, visits to ancient towns, and museum outings have all surged in popularity. Historical cultural districts, intangible cultural heritage performances, and innovative cultural experiences are emerging regularly, each showcasing the modern allure of Chinese culture in unique ways. This trend isn’t new; it has deep roots and is palpable in many aspects of daily life. It draws from the past, rich in history and tradition, while closely connecting to contemporary times.

One prominent goal is to “bring to life the cultural relics housed in museums, the heritage displayed across vast lands, and the ancient texts written in old books.”

Vibrant culture may manifest differently for each individual; it could be a historic cultural district, a well-preserved village, a stunning intangible heritage performance, or an elegant traditional gown. Over the past few years, significant progresses have been made in projects like the Chinese Civilization Exploration and Archaeology China, focusing on the overall protection and dynamic inheritance of historical cultural districts and villages. To date, around 139,000 ancient texts and special collection documents have been released as digital resources. This ongoing quest for the “codes” of civilization clarifies the threads of Chinese culture, guiding its legacy and development. The popularity of poetry, the rising interest in cultural museums, and the innovation in cultural products have all flourished. More and more people are curating their own “home museums” using cultural creative products, adorning themselves in designs inspired by classic styles from places like Mogao Caves and Sanxingdui, thus embracing the essence of national trends in fashion. The enthusiasm for traditional culture remains high as it weaves into daily life, enriching personal experiences.

“Our ancestral culture, a treasure passed down through generations, must be held close, modernized, and celebrated.”

Since last year, the small city of Jingdezhen has suddenly gained attention, drawing roughly 60,000 individuals, known as “Jing Drift,” who flock here to “play with clay.” They are not just seeking a relaxed lifestyle but are also exploring new entrepreneurial paths. Jingdezhen’s artistic vibe has captured the spotlight on various platforms, showcasing the limitless creativity of artisans and the vast potential of ceramics. Similarly, in Caoxian, with a mature garment-making industry, the surge of traditional Chinese cultural trends and the rise of e-commerce have transformed the local market, paving the way for the flourishing “Hanfu economy.” Today, over 2,000 Hanfu businesses and 14,700 online stores operate, employing nearly 100,000 people. These traditional crafts passed down by ancestors are like treasures waiting to be reimagined into something extraordinary.

“Artistic expression is the clarion call of the times, reflecting and shaping the aesthetic spirit of an era.”

In recent years, a colorful range of Chinese stories have emerged in various art forms, incorporating a plethora of contemporary elements. The Yue opera adaptation of “New Dragon Gate Inn” has captivated audiences from the 90s and 00s; dance dramas like “Dream of the Red Chamber” and “Only This Green” continue to attract attention; and the standalone game “Black Myth: Wukong” has taken cultural confidence to the international stage, combining alluring historical sites with Eastern philosophy.

At every major film release period, domestic films consistently top the box office, with popular hits emerging each season. This year’s National Day box office reached 2.1 billion yuan, with domestic films accounting for approximately 95.87% of the total, at 2 billion yuan. Homegrown creators are shifting away from merely catering to Western perceptions of “Oriental elements,” focusing instead on producing works that genuinely reflect the contemporary spirit of China. Films like “The Volunteer Army 2” resonate with national and ethnic responsibility, while “The Wandering Earth,” cloaked in a sci-fi narrative, still embodies the spirit of resilience. The emotional connections and resonance these works foster with audiences are what give domestic productions their unique competitive edge, uniting us in our collective advancement.

“Chinese-style modernization cannot be separated from the inheritance and promotion of outstanding traditional culture.” Today’s Chinese culture is both trendy and stylish, seamlessly blending with the zeitgeist, embracing cutting-edge technology and art, and radiating renewed vitality. It permeates every corner of life, nourishing the spirit of the Chinese people.

Yinka Olatunbosun
ART X Lagos, West Africa’s leading international art fair, returns for its highly anticipated ninth edition fromOctober 31st to November 3rd, 2024. Since its inception in 2016, ART X Lagos has showcased artists from over 70 countries, establishing itself as the leading hub for African and diaspora creatives. This year, the fair will continue its tradition of highlighting African art, culture and community, while fostering critical conversations on the social and political transformations shaping the continent.
The fair will take place from October 31st to November 3rd at The Federal Palace Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos. Expectedly, the private Collectors’ Preview will be held on Thursday, October 31st, followed by the VIP Preview on Friday, November 1st. The fair will be open to the public on Saturday, November 2nd and Sunday, November 3rd, 2024, while virtual audiences can also engage with the fair on Artsy.net.
Against a backdrop of challenges being experienced in Nigeria, with political and socio-economic difficulties across Africa and further afield, this year’s theme will explore, ‘Promised Lands’, highlighting places — real and imagined –that offer hope and a vision of greater freedoms towards prompting a critical examination of where Africa and its diaspora aspire to go.
Tokini Peterside-Schwebig, Founder of ART X Lagos, remarks: “We are thrilled to present an exceptional lineup of artists, exhibitions and galleries for our ninth edition, representing the diverse and dynamic voices emerging from all corners of Africa and the diaspora. ‘Promised Lands’ is a theme that resonates deeply with our collective journey—reflecting on where we are and envisioning where we aspire to be. It was crucial for us to create a platform that not only anchors the African art movement but also drives meaningful conversations about the social, political and cultural landscapes of our continent. We remain dedicated to creating an absolutely cannot-miss experience for our artists, cultural partners, gallerists, collectors and visitors from Africa, and around the world.”
With a diverse selection of curated galleries, thought-provoking exhibitions and special projects, dynamic live performances and insightful discussions, the fair continues to push boundaries and foster cross-cultural dialogue. Below are some of the key highlights:
ART X Lagos 2024 will feature 10 specially curated galleries from cities like Lagos, Harare, Accra and London, showcasing a diverse mix of emerging and established artists from across Africa and its diaspora. The galleries will present a cross-section of artists making unique contributions to the visual arts ecosystem, reinforcing ART X Lagos’ mission to promote artistic excellence and cross-cultural collaboration. The 2024 galleries include: Afriart Gallery (Uganda), Alexis Gallery (Nigeria), Galerie MAM (Cameroon), Gallery 1957 (Ghana), Affinity Art Gallery (Nigeria), Kanbi Projects (UK), kó (Nigeria), Nike Art Gallery (Nigeria), ODA Art Gallery (Nigeria) and Tiwani Contemporary (UK).
The Speakers’ Corner: The Crossroads is a participatory experience that seeks to invite attendees to reflect on Nigeria’s current challenges, creating a collective tapestry of shared voices and hopes. Curated by Papa Omotayo in collaboration with Haily Grenet, Fikayo Adebajo, and Dike Anthony, this space invites meaningful engagement on pivotal societal questions. The Mark-Makers: Unsung Pioneers exhibition honours extraordinary individuals who redefined what was possible for Africans in science, art, and social activism. Through their legacy, we are reminded that greatness stems from courage, collaboration, and the audacity to challenge the status quo. This exhibition was curated by Missla Libsekal, Fikayo Adebajo and Haily Grenet, with historical consultancy by Ed Keazor celebrating figures like Jonathan Adagogo Green, August Agboola Browne and Nana Asma’u.
In‘Restless Cities: From Lagos to the World,’ Andrew Dosunmu, the celebrated Lagos-born photographer and filmmaker, presents his first-ever solo exhibition in Africa. This exhibition invites viewers to explore Nigerian cities as living, breathing hubs, mirroring the connections shared in everyday life. Other major exhibitions include Marcellina Akpojotor’stextile art addressing sustainability and Williams Chechet’s Afro-futurist “Breaking Barriers,” both contributing to the fair’s theme of creativity driving social change.
Beyond the visual arts, ART X Live! curated by Lanre Masha and Ayo Lawson,will return with a live music experienceconnecting the dots between Nigeria’s past, present and future sounds. Attendees can expect a concert experience where traditional Fuji music meets contemporary genres and other multi-hyphenate African artists, with creative direction from visual artist Niyi Okeowo and producer Odunsi (The Engine).
ART X Cinema will showcase a selection of 13 films by African and diaspora filmmakers, while the Access ART X Prize 2023 winners, Julius Agbaje (Nigeria Award) and Shabu Mwangi (Africa/Diaspora Award) will host solo exhibitions around the concept of “What May Come”, alongside a retrospective on previous winners of the Prize, curated by Jumoke Sanwo.
In collaboration with Afreximbank, ART X Lagos will also present ‘Art Across Borders:Where to Go,’ an exhibition featuring six mid-career African and Caribbean artists who explore ancestral connections and future possibilities, aligning with the fair’s theme of ‘Promised Lands.’ Curated by Jumoke Sanwo, this exhibition delves into the African imagination. ART X Talks will further enrich the fair with engaging discussions, including a conversation with filmmaker Andrew Dosunmu, a collaboration with Native on the influence of African music genres on contemporary pop culture, and insights from Ed Keazor and Missla Libsekal, curators of the Mark-Makers exhibition.
Educational and engaging programs such as the Schools’ Programme and the Development Forumwill nurture the next generation of African talent, ensuring that ART X Lagos continues to serve as a platform for creativity, cultural dialogue, and community building across Africa and the diaspora.
ART X Lagos has rapidly become a fixture for African art, culture, and creativity. As a key moment on the continent, the fair will continue to redefine held views of the African narrative while also building bridges between local and international audiences and their communities.
Participating galleries at this year’s fair includeAfriart Gallery (Uganda), Alexis Gallery (Nigeria), Galerie MAM (Cameroon), Gallery 1957 (Ghana), Affinity Art Gallery (Nigeria), Kanbi Projects (UK), kó (Nigeria), Nike Art Gallery (Nigeria), ODA Art Gallery (Nigeria) and Tiwani Contemporary (UK)
ART X Lagos was created to showcase and support the breadth of contemporary art from Africa and its diaspora. Founded in 2016 by Tokini Peterside-Schwebig, the fair has since become a cornerstone of the African art sector. The first of its kind in West Africa, ART X Lagos goes beyond the traditional bounds of an art fair, and has become renowned for its ambitious programme that includes ART X Cinema, ART X Talks, ART X Live! and specially curated projects which have featured an array of emerging and established artists from over 70 countries across the continent and diaspora.

During a speech at Stanford University’s Hoover Institution on Monday, Federal Reserve Governor Christopher Waller mentioned that recent economic data indicates a less urgent need for policymakers to cut interest rates compared to last month’s meeting. Minneapolis Federal Reserve President Neel Kashkari also noted that a “further modest reduction” in the benchmark rate seems appropriate over the coming quarters.

Waller stated, “I believe that overall data suggests monetary policy should proceed more cautiously with rate cuts than we did in September.”

He added that if the current economic conditions persist, “we can continue to adjust our policy towards a neutral stance cautiously.” A neutral interest rate is one that neither restrains nor stimulates the economy.

Waller pointed out that recent labor market data shows a decline in the unemployment rate amidst strong hiring, with job growth in previous months being revised upward. However, he described the latest inflation figures, which surpassed expectations, as “disappointing.”

Speaking during a meeting of the Argentinian central bank in Buenos Aires, Kashkari stated, “Ultimately, the future direction of policy will be dictated by actual economic performance, inflation, and labor market data.”

He characterized the Fed’s current stance as restrictive, although the extent of that restriction remains unclear.

Kashkari highlighted the strength of the labor market, calling recent employment reports “encouraging, suggesting that the labor market is unlikely to weaken anytime soon.” He noted that while inflation has “significantly declined from its peak, it still remains slightly above our target.”

Kashkari expressed satisfaction with the Fed’s recent decision to cut rates by 50 basis points in September, and suggested that two additional cuts of 25 basis points each in the remaining meetings of the year would be a “reasonable starting point.” The Fed is set to announce its next interest rate decision at the conclusion of its meeting on November 6-7.

Facing a potential recall vote, Alameda County District Attorney Pamela Price shared that her office has been grappling with a significant backlog of misdemeanor cases since mid-July. Since August, they have been working diligently to address this issue. Price acknowledged criticism from the San Francisco Chronicle regarding over a thousand misdemeanor cases that allegedly exceeded the statute of limitations without prosecution. However, she stated that she could not confirm that number.

“After uncovering the backlog issue in mid-July, we have been actively working to resolve it since August,” Price explained. She described the backlog as a longstanding challenge, attributing some of the difficulties to her predecessor, Nancy O’Malley, for not adequately informing her about the backlog situation. Price also mentioned that an outdated computer system requires significant upgrades to improve their processes.

According to documents provided by Price’s office, there are 360 cases that have been declined for prosecution, and 646 pending cases involving offenses committed over a year ago may not meet prosecution criteria. Prosecutors have one year from the date of the alleged misdemeanor to decide whether to file charges. Cases exceeding this statute of limitations mean that arrested individuals are almost certain to escape potential jail time or treatment.

In early 2023, Price hired Senior Assistant District Attorney Evanthia Pappas to lead a new branch focused on family justice. At that time, the team discovered a substantial backlog of domestic violence cases and U-Visa applications for certain crime victims. They recognized that failing to address these issues promptly posed a significant risk. The new team has since worked at the family justice center and replicated their successful backlog-clearing strategies at the Wiley Manuel Courthouse to tackle the misdemeanor case backlog.

Price described the backlog as a complex issue, noting that police reports come from 22 law enforcement agencies, with the Wiley Manuel Courthouse receiving up to 70 to 100 reports daily. Historically, misdemeanor cases have been processed manually. O’Malley’s case management system did not allow staff to input the date of alleged incidents, but her office is currently working on updating the system to better track dates and deadlines.

In response to accusations from Price, O’Malley denied failing to inform her about the backlog. She maintained that the tracking system could certainly record the dates of alleged crimes and that she had ensured proper staffing for related departments to monitor deadlines effectively. “We need to ensure things are handled properly,” she stated.

Price further emphasized that if the database does not require—and in some cases, does not allow—the documentation of when incidents occurred, the case management system cannot keep track of statutory deadlines. Her approach to resolving the issue includes reallocating staff, collaborating with Alameda County’s IT department to incorporate incident dates during processing, and introducing a memo system to track judicial timelines. Until necessary system upgrades are implemented, her office will continue to manually track the dates of any new reports under review.

During an interview with CNN, Alon Pinkas, the former Israeli Consul General in New York, discussed the recent escalations in Israel’s military actions in Gaza and Lebanon. He attributed these developments, including the anticipated response to missile strikes from Iran, to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s political survival instincts. “Netanyahu doesn’t want to end the war,” Pinkas stated to CNN anchor Lynda Kinkade.

Speaking from Tel Aviv, Pinkas elaborated, “Netanyahu aims to prolong the conflict to create a war-like atmosphere, which he finds politically advantageous and important.”

Netanyahu’s self-proclaimed image as the “Mr. Security” of Israel appeared irreparably damaged following the Hamas attack on October 7 last year. However, he managed to turn the situation around afterward.

The war aimed at eliminating Hamas continues to enjoy widespread public support in Israel, yet it raises complex issues related to long-term occupation, relations with Palestinians, and conflicts with neighboring countries, including Hezbollah, which is supported by Iran. The military objectives have now expanded to include Hezbollah, and Netanyahu’s cabinet is evaluating how to respond to the missile attacks launched by Iran.

Pinkas noted, “I have not seen Netanyahu taking any steps to end the war,” emphasizing that Netanyahu has consistently refused President Biden’s post-war plan for Gaza and declines to negotiate any ceasefire agreement for the release of hostages. He remarked, “He hasn’t even mentioned the hostages, even though there are still about 100 individuals being held in Gaza.”

According to Pinkas, Israel has already achieved its war goals, and a ceasefire in Gaza would be necessary to de-escalate tensions with Lebanon. However, he believes Netanyahu “legally but incorrectly refuses to acknowledge this logic.”

Roads have long been unused but destroying them sends clear message Pyongyang does not want to negotiate with Seoul, experts say
Justin McCurry in Tokyo and agenciesTue 15 Oct 2024 05.08 EDTFirst published on Tue 15 Oct 2024 01.27 EDTShareSouth Korea has condemned North Korea after it destroyed roads linking the countries on Tuesday, in another blow to bilateral ties on the increasingly tense peninsula.
The South Korean unification ministry, which overseas inter-Korean relations, described the North’s decision to blow up roads on its side of the countries’ heavily armed border as “abnormal” and a violation of bilateral agreements designed to lower tensions.
The South’s joint chiefs of staff said its military had fired “retaliatory” warning shots near the border after the North blew up sections of road that, while not in use, are seen as symbolic of efforts to improve ties and, eventually, reunite the peninsula.
North Koreans deployed alongside Russian troops in Ukraine, sources sayRead more“North Korean has detonated parts of the Gyeongui and Donghae roads north of the military demarcation line,” the JCS said, adding that the South had boosted its military readiness in response.
It did not provide details of the warning shots and it was not immediately known if North Korea had responded.
The North has laid fresh mines, erected anti-tank barriers and deployed missiles capable of carrying nuclear warheads along the border since its leader, Kim Jong-un, declared the South his country’s “principal enemy” earlier this year.
Last week Pyongyang said it would permanently seal its southern border in response to joint military exercises between South Korea and the US and the recent arrival in the South of a nuclear-powered US submarine.
On Monday, the North said it was preparing to blow up the roads, days after it accused Seoul of using drones to scatter propaganda leaflets over Pyongyang in what it called a political and military provocation that could lead to war.
Kim convened a security meeting to direct a plan of “immediate military action” in response, state media reported on Tuesday, while his influential sister, Kim Yo-jong, said the regime had “clear proof” that the South’s military was behind the reported drone incursions.
Using typically florid language, she said: “If sovereignty of a nuclear weapons state … by mongrels tamed by Yankees, the master of those dogs should be held accountable for this,” according to the KCNA state news agency.
The two Koreas are connected by roads and railway lines that were built with South Korean loans worth $133m, the South’s Yonhap news agency said.
The roads and railways have been closed for years, but destroying them sent a clear message that Kim Jong-un did not wish to negotiate with the South, experts said.
Destroying physical connections between North and South would be in line with Kim’s order in January to ditch the goal of a peaceful Korean unification, in a break with his predecessors’ long-held dream of creating a united peninsula in the image of North Korea.
“This is a practical military measure related to the hostile dual-state system that North Korea has frequently mentioned,” said Yang Moo-jin, president of the University of North Korean Studies in Seoul.
The North may be looking to erect more physical barriers along the border, Yang said, adding that the detonations could be “preparatory work for its construction of those walls”.
Seoul’s military initially denied sending drones north but has subsequently declined to comment, even as Pyongyang has blamed them directly, warning it would consider it “a declaration of war” if another drone was detected.
Activist groups have long sent propaganda northwards, typically by balloon, and enthusiasts are also known to have flown small, hard-to-detect drones into the North.
At Kim’s meeting on Monday, officials heard a report on the “enemy’s serious provocation”, KCNA said, adding that Kim had “expressed a tough political and military stand”.
In 2022, five North Korean drones crossed into the South, the first such incident in five years, prompting the South Korean military to fire warning shots and deploy fighter jets. The jets failed to shoot down any of the drones.
In July, Seoul said it would deploy drone-melting lasers this year, saying the South’s ability to respond to provocations would be “significantly enhanced”.
The new laser weapons – called the “StarWars Project” by the South – shoot an invisible, silent beam that costs just 2,000 won ($1.45) a use, according to the Defense Acquisition Program Administration.
After Kim’s meeting in Pyongyang, “attention is turning to whether North Korea will respond by sending drones into the South or take strong action if drones infiltrate its territory again”, said Cheong Seong-chang of the Sejong Institute.
“North Korea is likely to engage in strong provocations along the border if there is a recurrence of drone infiltrations.”
Agence France-Presse and Reuters contributed to this report

Ahmad Sorondinki in Kano.
No fewer than 107 people lost their lives following a petrol tanker explosion in Majiya village of Taura local government area, Jigawa State. The death toll was ealier put at 90, then 95 before the latest update.Confirming the rise of the death toll in a press statement, the Jigawa State Police Command, said tanker entered through the drainage at the outskirts of the village.
The statement read: “A tragic and devastating incident occurred on October 15, 2024, at about 2230hrs, involving a petrol tanker with registration number KMC 6412 F, driven by one Yusuf Mohd ‘m’ age 32yrs of Hotoro Quarters, Kano State.”
“The tanker was traveling from Kano to Nguru, Yobe State, when the driver lost control near Khadija University in Majia Town, Taura LGA, causing it to overturn and spill fuel.
” Unfortunately, villagers attempted to scoop petrol from the drainage, resulting in a flame that engulfed the area and many people were reportedly perished.”
The statement signed by the DSP Lawan Adam, Police Public Relations Officer, said “One hundred and five (105) corpses have been evacuated, while 50 injured persons were rushed to Ringim and Hadejia General Hospitals for medical attention.”
“The fire was successfully extinguished through the combined efforts of police officers, firefighters, and good Samaritans.”
In the early hours of Wednesday, the Police took about 50 victims who sustained various degree of injuries to the hospital for treatment.An eyewitness Adamu Muhammad who narrowly escaped from the scene, said the incident occurred at 12am Wednesday when a tanker exploded at the village.
He said “as the tanker exploded in flames, most of the villagers were abruptly awakened and rushed to the scene.”
“We tried to help but the inferno was too much to be confronted. There were shouting, roaring from the people who went to scoop for the fuel, coming out from the crashed tanker.”
Another resident, Musa Sani, explained that “It was terrifying. People were running in all directions, screaming for help. The fire spread so quickly that many couldn’t escape.”