Iran's leader killed & earthquake in Venezuela
There is great concern regarding the global security situation after Iran's supreme leader was killed in an attack, followed by retaliation and criticism of the NATO defense alliance. At the same time, Venezuela has been hit by a natural disaster with an enormous death toll. Here are today's most important events affecting international stability and security.
The risk of an expanded war in the Middle East has increased after the US and Israel killed Iran's supreme leader, Ayatollah Khamenei (the country's primary religious and political leader). Iran has responded with counterattacks against Israel, but new talks are already planned for next week according to the US Secretary of State-designate Marco Rubio. Meanwhile, Hezbollah accuses Israel of having violated the ceasefire in Lebanon. For Swedish readers, the escalation means increased global uncertainty that could affect both the economy and security policy decisions.
Between 10,000 and 100,000 people are feared dead after two powerful earthquakes struck Venezuela. Initial estimates point to enormous destruction of buildings and infrastructure. The disaster is one of the deadliest in modern times and is expected to lead to a significant need for international aid.
US President Donald Trump is directing criticism at the members of the NATO defense alliance for a lack of support in the conflict against Iran. On Wednesday evening, leaders from several European countries and NATO chief Mark Rutte will meet to discuss the tense situation. As a new member of NATO, Sweden is directly affected by the alliance's internal cohesion and how member countries act together in times of crisis.
In the app's news feed, you can read more about the new heat records in Europe, the fuel shortage in Russia, and the presidential election in Colombia.