Makana 360 Daily Insights: Global News & Digital Trends
📌 Israel and Hezbollah exchange strikes ahead of high-stakes US-Iran talks
Hezbollah vowed to continue fighting Israel “until the last breath” after attacking Israeli soldiers in southern Lebanon, while Israeli airstrikes threatened to undermine the US-Iran ceasefire. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called for direct talks with Lebanon on disarming Hezbollah, stressing that Lebanon is not covered by the truce. Lebanon’s prime minister is expected in Washington soon, while Iran and the United States are set to hold talks in Pakistan. Despite this diplomatic track, transit through the Strait of Hormuz remains limited, underscoring continued security risks and the fragility of the regional situation.
📌 Melania Trump denies ties to Jeffrey Epstein and calls for a hearing for survivors
Melania Trump publicly denied any involvement with Jeffrey Epstein, rejected claims that he introduced her to Donald Trump, and called for congressional hearings to allow survivors to testify under oath. She said she only briefly crossed paths with Epstein in 2000 and had no knowledge of his abuse. Her remarks triggered mixed reactions: some survivors welcomed the move, while others argued that asking them to testify again risks shifting attention away from powerful figures who have yet to ensure full transparency. The statement is likely to renew scrutiny over how Epstein-related investigations, files, and past connections have been handled.
📌 New EU fingerprint and photo travel rules come into force
The European Union’s new Entry/Exit System (EES) is being rolled out across Schengen borders to digitally record non-EU travellers entering and leaving the area. Instead of passport stamps, travellers will have their passports scanned, fingerprints taken, and a photo captured, with the registration remaining valid for three years. Although the system has been phasing in since October, not all airports and crossing points are fully ready, and major hubs such as Milan and Lisbon have delayed full activation. Long queues and technical issues have already been reported, while the related ETIAS travel authorization system is expected later in 2026.
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