Türkiye celebrates Istanbul’s conquest by launching gas platform

"Türkiye sent off its first floating production unit Osman Gazi, towards the Sakarya Gas Field in the Black Sea.

President Recep Tayyip Erdogan led the ceremonial send-off in Istanbul, accompanied by top officials and a traditional mehter band.

Marking the 572nd anniversary of the Conquest of Istanbul, the platform’s journey through the strait began with presidential blessings and radio communications.

Expected to double gas output, Osman Gazi is seen as Türkiye’s bold stride towards energy independence."

US flag returns to Syria after 12 years of frozen ties

"In a landmark move, US envoy Thomas Barrack raised the American flag over the ambassador’s residence in Damascus.

It was its first appearance since 2012.

Though embassy operations remain suspended, Barrack’s visit signals renewed US-Syria engagement.

Appointed on May 23, Barrack met with Syria's President Ahmed al Sharaa and reopened the residence with Foreign Minister Asaad al Shaibani.

He reiterated US support for current leadership, hinted at peace talks with Israel and confirmed that sanctions had been lifted by President Trump, including Syria’s removal from the ""terror sponsor"" list."

Ukraine open to Istanbul talks but wants Russia’s peace terms first

"Jumping on to another volatile region, Ukraine has expressed its readiness to participate in peace talks planned to take place in Istanbul next week.

However, Kiev insists that Russia must share its proposed peace terms in advance.

Ukraine described Moscow’s refusal to do so as “non-constructive,” warning that the meeting risks being ineffective without transparency.

Meanwhile, the United Nations has reported a sharp increase in civilian casualties, with over 13,000 civilians killed since the conflict began.

The United States has called on Russia to agree to a comprehensive ceasefire, emphasising that there is no military solution to the conflict.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has also urged all parties to keep dialogue channels open despite stalled diplomatic efforts."

South Koreans show record turnout as early voting continues

"South Koreans turned out in record numbers on Friday for the second day of early voting, aiming to end months of political chaos sparked by ousted President Yoon Suk-yeol’s controversial martial law declaration and impeachment.

With the economy under strain and a revolving door of interim leaders, liberal frontrunner Lee Jae-myung leads the race, followed by conservative Kim Moon-soo.

Already, a record 21 percent of 44.4 million registered voters have cast ballots, with overseas turnout hitting historic highs ahead of the June 3 election."

"Hamas: Israeli ceasefire response fails to meet core demands

"Palestinian resistance group Hamas says Israel's response to a US-backed Gaza ceasefire proposal falls short of its demands.

The plan, put forward by US President Donald Trump's envoy Steve Witkoff, remains under Hamas review.

Meanwhile, Israeli warplanes bombed southern Lebanon, striking several towns days after a deadly attack breached the 2024 truce.

Separately in Gaza, the head of the United Nations relief agency for Palestinian refugees Philippe Lazzarini, warned that Israel’s war tactics, including starvation, threaten future generations in Gaza.

He urged unhindered access to aid to avert a deepening humanitarian catastrophe."