Somali Hotel Siege Ends After 24-hours
Somali security forces ended a deadly 24-hour siege at a hotel in Beledweyne, Hiran, Somalia, on March 12. The death toll remains uncertain.
Some reports indicate that six people, including two prominent elders, were killed. However, other witnesses claim the death toll was higher, with one witness noting that at least 11 people, including three of his relatives, were among the victims.
In response to the attack, Somali lawmakers have called for the resignation of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, citing his administration’s failure to address mounting security concerns.
President Trump Escalates Attacks on Legal Community
President Donald Trump took unprecedented action against prominent law firms critical of his administration by signing an executive order targeting these firms on March 16. The order includes measures to revoke federal contracts and impose sanctions on firms such as Jenner & Block.
The order is part of a larger strategy to undermine legal challenges to his policies, particularly those involved in investigations into his administration. Trump’s executive actions have provoked widespread backlash from legal professionals, who warn that this could create a dangerous precedent and threaten the independence of the justice system.
Legal experts warn that this strategy could have serious consequences for civil rights and people’s ability to get fair legal representation, particularly for those challenging government policies.
Federal Reserve Keeps Interest Rates Steady Amid Inflation
Last Wednesday, the Federal Reserve decided to keep interest rates unchanged, maintaining the federal funds rate at 4.25% to 4.5%. The decision reflects the Fed’s cautious approach to balancing inflation control with economic growth.
While inflation remains higher than the target 2%, the Fed is wary of raising rates too aggressively, which could push the economy into a recession.
Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell emphasized that the central bank will continue to monitor inflation trends and adjust policies as needed.
U.S. Attorney Resigns Over Adams Corruption Case
New controversy surrounded New York City Mayor Eric Adams last Thursday, as recently unsealed court documents revealed that former U.S. Attorney Danielle Sassoon resigned in protest over the handling of corruption investigations into Adams’ tenure.
The Justice Department had been under pressure to drop the case, but Sassoon refused to comply with what she viewed as political interference. Adams is accused of accepting illegal campaign contributions and misusing city resources.
Australia Redirects $100M in Aid to Indo-Pacific
In a strategic pivot, Australia announced that it would redirect over $100 million in foreign aid toward the Indo-Pacific region. This move comes as a response to significant cuts in foreign assistance funding by the U.S.
Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong emphasized that the reallocated funds would go towards addressing climate change, public health and humanitarian needs in neighboring countries such as Myanmar, Indonesia and the Philippines.
This change in foreign aid priorities highlights the growing competition in the Indo-Pacific region.
lkelyman@ramapo.edu
Featured photo courtesy of Ap photo
