June 11, 2025

THE CLIFF NEWS

National Daily Bilingual Newspaper

Category: International

Nationwide Protests Erupt Over Immigration Raids; Over 4,100 Troops Deployed in Los Angeles

As demonstrations over the immigration raids entered their fourth consecutive day in Los Angeles, U.S. President Donald Trump approved the deployment of an additional 2,000 National Guard troops to manage potential unrest, according to a report by the Associated Press. The Pentagon also confirmed the deployment of 700 Marines to downtown Los Angeles to assist the National Guard amid growing public agitation and citywide disruptions. However, LA Police Chief Jim McDonnell expressed concerns about the Marines being deployed without prior coordination, calling it a “significant logistical and operational challenge,” even as he assured the public of the department’s readiness to manage large-scale protests. The protests are in response to the Trump administration’s intensified immigration enforcement actions, which led to confrontations between demonstrators and law enforcement officials. Intelligence agencies have pointed to a combination of factors behind the unrest, including the immigration raids themselves and the increasing federal military presence in the city. Protests Sparked by Immigration Crackdown The unrest began last Friday when dozens of day laborers and undocumented individuals gathered in the parking lot of a hardware store in Los Angeles to protest after federal immigration officers conducted widespread raids across Southern California. More than 40 arrests were made citywide by federal authorities on that day alone. Over the weekend, tensions escalated further. On Saturday, LAPD arrested 29 individuals for refusing to disperse, and by Sunday, 21 more were taken into custody on charges including assault on police officers, use of incendiary devices, and theft. Police Response and Escalation In a statement, the Los Angeles Police Department confirmed the use of tear gas, rubber bullets, and other crowd-control methods—over 600 less-than-lethal munitions were used. Five officers reportedly sustained minor injuries. Visuals from Monday captured the intense atmosphere as police dispersed demonstrators with flash-bangs in Santa Ana, pushing through busy commercial zones while civilians and workers scrambled for safety. Labor Leader Arrested, Rally Held On Monday, thousands gathered outside City Hall in support of labor leader David Huerta, who had been arrested for his participation in the protests. Huerta, president of the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) California, which advocates for janitors, security personnel, and other essential workers, was released later that day on a $50,000 bond. Family members of those detained during the raids also staged a protest, demanding their immediate release. Federal Deployment Triggers Political Backlash In a controversial move, the Trump administration authorized the deployment of 2,000 National Guard troops last week, claiming it was necessary to restore order in what it termed a state of “lawlessness” in California. This action was met with strong opposition from California Governor Gavin Newsom, who called the move “purposefully inflammatory” and warned that it would only worsen tensions. On Monday, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced via social media that 700 Marines were being deployed to further support crowd-control operations. Just hours later, President Trump authorized an additional 2,000 National Guard troops, bringing the total federally activated force in LA to over 4,100. Historical Parallel The Brennan Center for Justice noted that the last instance of the National Guard being activated without a governor’s consent occurred in 1965, when President Lyndon B. Johnson dispatched troops to protect a civil rights march in Alabama. As the situation in Los Angeles continues to evolve, concerns remain over the impact of military involvement in civil demonstrations and the potential for further escalation.

Read More
Editor06 mins

Chad Suspends Visas for U.S. Citizens in Retaliation to Trump’s Renewed Travel Ban

In a swift and symbolic act of diplomatic retaliation, Chad’s President Mahamat Idriss Deby announced the suspension of visa issuance for U.S. citizens, following former U.S. President Donald Trump’s reimposition of a travel ban targeting 12 countries, including Chad. 🔴 What Happened? On Wednesday, Trump reinstated a controversial policy from his first presidential term, citing “deficient screening and vetting procedures” and refusal by certain nations to accept deported nationals. The 12 countries affected by the new ban are: The new ban also includes heightened restrictions on visitors from seven other nations and is set to take effect from Monday at 12:01 a.m. In response, President Deby declared via Facebook that Chad would invoke the principle of reciprocity and suspend U.S. visas, making it clear that while Chad lacks vast resources, “Chad has his dignity and pride.” 🌍 Regional Reactions: African nations—seven of which are included in the ban—are responding in varied ways: ⚖️ Diplomatic Fallout: This development threatens to deepen tensions between the U.S. and several African nations, at a time when global geopolitical alliances are shifting. Chad’s bold move underscores growing frustration in parts of the Global South over perceived unilateral and discriminatory visa policies. Analysts warn that the decision could affect military cooperation, counterterrorism efforts, and regional diplomatic goodwill, especially in areas where U.S. presence or aid remains critical. ⏭️ What’s Next? The reciprocal visa suspension by Chad is currently indefinite, with no clear path to reversal unless the U.S. revisits or clarifies its policy. With diplomatic channels expected to be activated behind the scenes, attention will now turn to whether other affected nations will follow Chad’s lead—or opt for more conciliatory approaches like Sierra Leone. This incident once again highlights how visa policies can ripple far beyond immigration, shaping relationships, national pride, and international power dynamics.

Read More
Editor04 mins

NASA’s Mars Odyssey Captures Stunning Image of Arsia Mons Above Martian Clouds

In a breathtaking cosmic snapshot, NASA’s 2001 Mars Odyssey orbiter has captured Arsia Mons, one of Mars’ tallest volcanoes, appearing to rise majestically above a veil of greenish atmospheric haze. The image was taken just before dawn on May 2, 2025, offering a rare and awe-inspiring glimpse of the Red Planet’s horizon. The photograph presents a scene eerily reminiscent of Earth — a massive peak breaking through morning clouds — but it’s on Mars, highlighting the alien beauty of our planetary neighbor. The volcano, Arsia Mons, towers roughly 20 kilometers high and stretches over 400 kilometers wide, making it one of the solar system’s largest. A New Angle on the Red Planet This unique image was made possible when Odyssey’s THEMIS (Thermal Emission Imaging System) instrument pivoted 90 degrees to capture a side-on view of the Martian atmosphere and surface. Although THEMIS was originally designed to study surface composition, scientists began repurposing it in 2023 to explore Mars’ upper atmosphere by photographing the horizon. By doing so, researchers can now observe seasonal variations in clouds and dust, offering valuable clues about atmospheric dynamics on Mars — data crucial for future manned missions and climate studies. With this latest achievement, Mars Odyssey, the longest-serving spacecraft in orbit around another planet, continues to expand humanity’s understanding of Mars, not just from above, but from perspectives that mirror the view astronauts might one day see.

Read More
Editor02 mins

Carlos Alcaraz’s epic comeback in the longest-ever French Open men’s singles final

Carlos Alcaraz’s epic comeback in the longest-ever French Open men’s singles final sparked a massive wave of admiration and excitement on social media. The 22-year-old Spaniard fought back from two sets down to defeat world number one Jannik Sinner in a gripping five-set marathon lasting 5 hours and 29 minutes, winning 4-6, 6-7(4), 6-4, 7-6(3), 7-6(10-2). Fans and commentators alike hailed the match as one of the greatest in modern tennis history, praising Alcaraz’s resilience, physical endurance, and calm under pressure—especially after saving three match points. The Spaniard’s grit and sportsmanship won widespread acclaim, while Sinner, who pushed his rival to the brink, received heartfelt respect for his intensity and fighting spirit. A special highlight was the striking parallel between Alcaraz and his idol Rafael Nadal: both won their fifth Grand Slam title at the same age. Alcaraz called it “destiny,” saying it was a stat he would cherish forever. This coincidence was celebrated online as a symbolic passing of the torch in Spanish tennis, reinforcing Alcaraz’s rising stature as the sport’s new star. The match captivated not only tennis enthusiasts but also casual viewers and sports figures around the world, who praised the drama, breathtaking rallies, and emotional moments that unfolded on the clay courts of Roland Garros. Social media buzzed with clips, analyses, and heartfelt reactions, cementing this final’s place as an unforgettable classic in tennis lore.

Read More
Editor02 mins

‘Ballerina’ Opens Below Expectations Despite John Wick Legacy and Ana de Armas’ Star Power

Lionsgate’s latest action-thriller Ballerina, a spin-off from the acclaimed John Wick franchise, is off to a slower-than-expected start at the North American box office. Despite being showcased in 3,409 theatres and led by popular star Ana de Armas, the R-rated film failed to meet initial projections. Forecasts had earlier suggested a strong opening of over $35 million, but current estimates now place the debut in the mid-$20 million range, with the studio holding onto hope for a $30 million weekend. The film’s Friday earnings—including $3.5 million from Thursday previews—totaled under $11 million, raising concerns among industry insiders. “There’s always concern when a film with great audience reactions doesn’t deliver at the box office,” said one distribution insider. “We need all the wins we can get.” This sluggish performance is particularly surprising given the strength of the John Wick franchise and de Armas’ rising global profile. While R-rated films typically depend on strong evening and weekend turnout, Ballerina faces stiff competition. Disney’s live-action Lilo and Stitch remake, now in its third weekend, continues to draw steady crowds and may even surpass Ballerina in weekend totals—an unexpected outcome for what is seen as Lionsgate’s flagship franchise. Ballerina is the fifth installment in the John Wick universe and is set between John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum (2019) and John Wick: Chapter 4 (2023). Directed by Len Wiseman and written by Shay Hatten, the film is marketed as From the World of John Wick: Ballerina. Despite the underwhelming domestic start, studio insiders remain optimistic that strong international numbers and positive word-of-mouth could help the film recover in the coming weeks.

Read More
Editor03 mins

Israeli Forces Detain Greta Thunberg, Others Aboard ‘Freedom Flotilla’ in International Waters

In the early hours of Monday, high drama unfolded off the coast of Egypt as Israeli naval forces intercepted and detained the crew of the Madleen, a vessel carrying humanitarian aid to Gaza as part of the Freedom Flotilla. The ship, surrounded around 2 a.m. local time (5:30 a.m. IST) in Egyptian waters near Port Said, was attempting to break the Israeli blockade on Gaza to deliver critical supplies including flour, baby formula, and crutches. Among the 12 international activists on board were Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg and French Member of the European Parliament (MEP) Rima Hassan. The vessel was reportedly boarded under the cover of darkness after five Israeli speedboats surrounded it and drones hovered overhead. Israeli forces ordered the ship to turn back, boarded it forcibly, detained all individuals on board, and confiscated their mobile phones, effectively cutting off all communication. According to Francesca Albanese, UN Special Rapporteur, the interception happened in international waters. Rima Hassan confirmed the detentions via a post on X, stating: “The crew of the Freedom Flotilla was arrested by the Israeli army in international waters around 2 a.m.” The Israeli foreign ministry later downplayed the incident in a series of posts on X, referring to the Madleen as a “selfie yacht” carrying “celebrities,” and mocked the mission as a mere “media provocation.” The ministry claimed the vessel carried “less than a single truckload” of aid and emphasized that real humanitarian efforts were ongoing, noting that the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation had distributed nearly 11 million meals. “All passengers of the ‘selfie yacht’ are safe and unharmed. They were provided with sandwiches and water… the show is over,” the ministry posted. It also shared a photograph of Thunberg, smiling, with the caption that she was “currently on her way to Israel, safe and in good spirits.” Prior to being detained, activists aboard the Madleen had reported that Israeli forces used drones to spray the ship with a white, chemical-like substance and were jamming communications while playing disturbing sounds over the radio. Hay Sha Wiya, press officer for the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, confirmed the ship was “under assault” and struggling to maintain contact. The incident has sparked fresh global attention on the Gaza blockade and the treatment of humanitarian missions in the region.

Read More
Editor04 mins

Nations League Final: Ronaldo and Yamal in the Spotlight, But Team Effort Seals Portugal’s Victory

The UEFA Nations League final in Munich was billed as a symbolic passing of the torch — Cristiano Ronaldo, the seasoned superstar, facing off against Spain’s teenage prodigy Lamine Yamal. Yet when the crucial moments arrived, neither player dominated the spotlight as Portugal clinched a 5-3 penalty shootout victory after a thrilling 2-2 draw. Ronaldo, forced off late due to a muscle strain, still made an emotional appearance to celebrate Portugal’s third international trophy — joining his Euro 2016 and previous Nations League wins. His volley to level the score at 2-2 marked his 138th international goal, extending his record well beyond the 100-goal barrier. Meanwhile, 17-year-old Yamal, still finding his feet on the senior stage, provided a key assist but watched on from the sidelines during penalties, offering support to teammates. Portugal’s triumph was a collective showcase. Left-back Nuno Mendes was outstanding, repeatedly outmaneuvering Yamal and scoring Portugal’s opening goal before assisting Ronaldo. In the shootout, Mendes coolly converted a decisive penalty. Midfielders Bruno Fernandes and Vitinha also impressed, carrying form from their club successes into the national setup. Spain displayed their own depth with standout performances from Martín Zubimendi—poised to join Arsenal—who opened the scoring, and Pedri, who orchestrated play with finesse. Mikel Oyarzabal, a stalwart at Real Sociedad, scored a crucial goal and has now found the net in three major finals, cementing his importance to La Roja. Defensive solidity was evident on both sides: Rúben Dias returned to his best for Portugal, while Spain’s Dean Huijsen and Robin Le Normand proved reliable. Goalkeepers Diogo Costa and Unai Simón made key saves, underlining their quality ahead of next year’s World Cup. Looking ahead, both teams have the talent and depth to challenge for ultimate glory, but may still require moments of individual brilliance akin to Lionel Messi’s heroics for Argentina in Qatar 2022. Ronaldo, nearing 41 at the next World Cup, has shown he can still perform at the highest level, while Yamal’s burgeoning potential promises an exciting future. Sunday’s final reminded fans that while superstars capture the headlines, it’s the collective effort of the entire squad that ultimately wins trophies. Portugal’s victory was a testament to this truth, setting the stage for a thrilling World Cup campaign next year.

Read More
Editor04 mins

iOS 26 Preview: 10 Features to Expect at WWDC 2025

Apple’s WWDC 2025 kicks off tomorrow, and while developers may flock for coding tools and AI updates, most iPhone users will be watching closely for what iOS 26 has to offer. The next version of Apple’s mobile operating system appears to focus on meaningful refinements and intelligent enhancements—prioritising utility over flashy gimmicks. Here’s a preview of the 10 biggest features expected to be unveiled: 1. Apple Vision Pro-Inspired Visual Overhaul iOS 26 may introduce the most significant design refresh since iOS 7. Drawing inspiration from the Vision Pro headset, the UI could feature translucent elements, rounded app icons, and a more immersive aesthetic. Apps like Phone, Safari, and Camera are expected to receive interface tweaks, offering more streamlined and visually elegant experiences. 2. Emoji Fusion Get ready for emoji mashups. iOS 26 could let users combine two emojis to create custom ones—perfect for adding creativity and humour to your chats. Think: alien + pizza = alien craving pizza. It’s a lighthearted, expressive feature reminiscent of sticker culture. 3. AI-Powered Battery Health Optimization Apple is infusing AI into practical features. A new smart battery mode may learn your daily phone usage and intelligently manage background processes, extending battery life without compromising performance—no need to toggle low-power mode manually. 4. Real-Time Message Translation The Messages app could get smarter with AI-driven real-time translation, allowing instant translation of incoming texts in different languages. Whether you’re travelling or chatting with international friends, language barriers could become a thing of the past. 5. New Messages Features: Polls & Chat Personalisation Group chats may become more interactive with built-in polls and AI-suggested options for easy decision-making. Plus, you might soon be able to customise chat backgrounds, giving each conversation its own vibe—similar to WhatsApp or Instagram DMs. 6. Live Voice Translation—Everywhere Beyond text, Apple may roll out live voice translation, possibly integrated into phone calls and AirPods. Imagine having a conversation with someone who speaks another language—with real-time translation happening in your ears. Global travel just got easier. 7. Accessibility Upgrades iOS 26 is set to expand Reader Mode system-wide, making text easier to digest across all apps. Apple also plans to improve App Store labels, offering more clear and consistent information for users with visual or cognitive needs. 8. Seamless Captive Wi-Fi Login Logging in to public Wi-Fi at airports, hotels, or cafes could become less frustrating. iOS 26 might allow smoother connection to captive networks, reducing repeated pop-ups and login screens—a small tweak with big convenience. 9. AI Health Coach Apple is turning the Health app into a smart lifestyle companion. A virtual health coach could use your health data to suggest personalised wellness goals, including exercise, sleep, and even diet recommendations. Expect tools to track food intake, like caffeine and carbs, aiding users with fitness or medical needs. 10. More Subtle, Integrated AI Across iOS Instead of launching its own chatbot, Apple appears to be threading “Apple Intelligence” quietly through the system—enhancing apps like Messages, Health, and Battery without disrupting the user experience. It’s AI, the Apple way—useful, invisible, and private. As iOS 26 gears up to be revealed, Apple seems focused on delivering smarter, cleaner, and more personalised experiences. It’s not a revolution—it’s refinement. And for many users, that’s exactly what the iPhone needs next.

Read More
Editor05 mins

Saudi Arabia Suspends Block Work Visas for 14 Countries Ahead of Hajj 2025, Citing Security and Administrative Concerns

In a significant policy shift ahead of the Hajj 2025 pilgrimage, Saudi Arabia has temporarily suspended the issuance of block work visas for citizens from 14 countries, including India, Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Jordan, and Turkey. The decision, effective from May 2025, is reportedly driven by security and administrative concerns, particularly regarding the misuse of visas for unauthorized Hajj participation. Affected Countries: What Are Block Work Visas? Block work visas are typically bulk pre-approved visas issued by Saudi authorities to Gulf-based companies, allowing them to hire foreign workers—commonly for domestic work, hospitality, and construction sectors. These visas form the backbone of workforce planning for many companies, especially during seasonal spikes in labour demand. The suspension has alarmed employers who rely on this hiring model, particularly those engaged in preparation for the high-demand Hajj season. Industries that depend on short-term labour influxes may now face significant disruptions. Unauthorised Hajj Entry: A Core Issue The main concern, according to sources, is the rising trend of individuals entering the Kingdom on work, visit, or Umrah visas and then participating in the Hajj without the required Hajj permit. This practice created serious crowding and overwhelmed health and safety infrastructure during the 2024 pilgrimage. To prevent similar challenges this year, Saudi authorities have opted to enforce stricter visa and entry controls, aiming to ensure that only those with valid, official Hajj visas are allowed to undertake the pilgrimage. Although no formal statement has been released by Saudi officials, the suspension aligns with the Kingdom’s broader objective of maintaining order, safety, and proper logistical management during one of the world’s largest annual religious gatherings. Labour Market Implications The temporary ban has no defined timeline for resumption, creating uncertainty for companies that rely on semi-skilled and seasonal workers from the affected countries. Employers may now be compelled to: The move could also impact remittance flows and migrant workers’ job prospects in affected countries, especially during the peak Hajj and summer employment season. Looking Ahead While the policy aims to tighten control over pilgrimage management, it has sparked concerns over transparency and timing, especially in labour-supplying nations. It remains to be seen whether the Kingdom will provide further clarity or introduce alternative pathways for worker mobility in the coming months. As the Hajj approaches, this decision underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to ensuring a safe and streamlined pilgrimage, even if it comes at a temporary cost to labour market flexibility.

Read More
Editor04 mins

Canadian PM Mark Carney Defends Modi’s G7 Invite Amid Ongoing Murder Probe, Sparks Backlash from Sikh Community

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has defended his controversial decision to invite Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the upcoming G7 summit in Alberta, despite ongoing investigations linking the Indian government to the assassination of Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar on Canadian soil. Carney, speaking to reporters on Friday, avoided directly addressing questions about whether he believed Modi had any involvement in Nijjar’s killing. “There is a legal process that is literally under way and quite advanced in Canada, and it’s never appropriate to make comments with respect to those legal processes,” he said. The murder of Nijjar, a prominent Sikh separatist leader, in Surrey, British Columbia, sent shockwaves through the Indo-Canadian community and strained diplomatic ties between the two nations. Four Indian nationals living in Canada have been charged in connection with the June 2023 killing, and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) have concluded that the operation was directed by “the highest levels” of the Indian government. Despite these developments, Carney emphasized India’s global significance as a rationale for the invitation. “India is the fifth-largest economy in the world, the most populous country, and central to supply chains. It is essential to engage with its leadership on critical issues such as energy, artificial intelligence, and critical minerals,” he explained. He confirmed that Modi had accepted the invitation and would attend the G7 summit, scheduled for June 15–17 in Kananaskis, Alberta. In response, Prime Minister Modi issued a diplomatic statement, expressing optimism about future ties. “As vibrant democracies bound by deep people-to-people ties, India and Canada will work together with renewed vigour, guided by mutual respect and shared interests. Look forward to our meeting at the summit,” he said. However, Carney’s move has triggered intense backlash from the World Sikh Organization (WSO) and other advocacy groups. WSO President Danish Singh called the invitation “a betrayal of core Canadian values.” He criticized the government for offering Modi a red-carpet welcome while India continues to deny involvement in Nijjar’s murder and refuses to fully cooperate with Canadian investigators. “For Sikhs in Canada, this is a betrayal, not just of our community, but of Canadian justice. We would never extend such hospitality to leaders from Russia, China, or Iran under similar allegations,” Singh said. Last year, both countries expelled senior diplomats over the murder case, with Canadian law enforcement also linking India to gang violence and foreign interference activities within Canada. Carney’s invitation to Modi comes as his newly elected government seeks to repair strained relations with other international partners. On Thursday, he held a call with Chinese Premier Li Qiang, where both sides agreed to “regularize channels of communication” after ongoing trade disputes caused significant losses, particularly in seafood, EVs, and agricultural goods. Carney is also working to mend ties with the United States. Ongoing negotiations with President Donald Trump’s administration aim to end a trade war that has seen steep tariffs imposed on Canadian steel and aluminum. Ontario Premier Doug Ford confirmed that Carney is in “deep, deep discussions” with Trump’s team — a development echoed by Canada’s industry minister. While the government continues to prioritize diplomacy and economic cooperation, critics argue that principles of justice and sovereignty are being compromised. As the G7 summit approaches, pressure is mounting on Carney to clarify Canada’s position on human rights and foreign interference — and whether such considerations truly guide its foreign policy decisions.

Read More
Editor06 mins
Switch Language »