Iran’s nationwide protests appear increasingly smothered after crackdown

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — The nationwide protests challenging Iran’s theocracy appear increasingly smothered, a week after authorities shut the country off from the world and escalated a bloody crackdown that activists say has killed at least 2,637 people. The prospect of U.S. retaliation for the deaths of protesters hung over the region, though President Donald Trump signaled a possible de-escalation, saying the killing appeared to be ending. In Iran’s capital, Tehran, witnesses said recent mornings showed no new signs of bonfires lit the night before or debris in the streets. The sound of gunfire, which had been intense for several nights, has also faded.

Netanyahu says the announced start of Gaza ceasefire’s next phase is a ‘declarative move’

DEIR AL-BALAH, Gaza Strip (AP) — Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu cast the announcement that the fragile ceasefire in Gaza would advance to its second phase as largely symbolic. The statement raises questions about how the more challenging elements of the deal will be carried out. U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff said it would include disarming militants and establishing a new governance structure in Gaza. Palestinians in Gaza are questioning on-the-ground impacts of the announcement, citing continued bloodshed, aid shortages and dire living conditions. Hospitals reported Thursday that six people had been killed in two strikes in central Gaza.

Another construction crane collapse in Thailand kills 2

BANGKOK (AP) — A construction crane has collapsed onto an elevated road near Bangkok, a day after another construction accident in northeastern Thailand killed 32 people. The crane collapse on a major road leading from Bangkok killed at least two people Thursday. Meanwhile, the search for survivors ended at the scene of the crane collapse that caused a train derailment Wednesday. The construction project is part of a high-speed rail initiative to link China to Southeast Asia under Beijing’s Belt and Road Initiative. Thailand’s prime minister late Thursday announced tough new measures to terminate contracts with the companies involved in the two accidents.

European troops arrive in Greenland as talks with US highlight ‘disagreement’ over island’s future

NUUK, Greenland (AP) — Troops from European countries, including France and Germany, are arriving in Greenland to boost security. This comes as talks in Washington on Wednesday between Denmark, Greenland and the U.S. highlighted disagreements over Greenland’s future. French President Emmanuel Macron announced the deployment of French troops, with Germany sending a reconnaissance team on Thursday. Denmark is also increasing its military presence. The talks focused on U.S. intentions to take over Greenland for its mineral resources amid rising Russian and Chinese interest. Danish Foreign Minister Lars Løkke Rasmussen expressed concerns over Trump’s intentions. Greenlanders remain uncertain about the future.