Break between UK and France after Brexit

A worsening dispute between France and the United Kingdom over post-Brexit fishing rights. The UK, angry at France’s seizure of a British trawler in French waters, says it reserves the right to respond in a proportionate manner. Environment Secretary George Eustice said it was still possible for Britain to increase its required measurements on French ships. France on Wednesday stopped a British fishing boat and warned another in its waters. Paris said the detained boat does not have an appropriate license and that its captain will be tried next August. Paris did so in retaliation for London’s denial of a fishing license to EU vessels, including French vessels operating in British waters. Paris threatened further retaliatory measures from next week if the talks did not advance. Britain called the threats unjustified and summoned the French ambassador for explanations.

military coup in Sudan

In Sudan, anti-coup protests show no signs of abating. the protesters are determined to continue their campaign of civil disobedience against the military takeover. The capital, Khartoum, is bracing for large protests on Saturday following deadly clashes between security forces and protesters. Parliamentary forces and army soldiers have been deployed to Khartoum, as well as to the twin cities of Khartoum North and Omdurman. The United Nations called on the Sudanese army to show restraint.

Iran cuts COVID-19 rates

The number of COVID-19-related deaths in Iran is declining as the vaccination process accelerates across the country. According to health ministry records on Friday, 123 people lost their lives in the past day. This brings the total number of deaths from the coronavirus to nearly 126,000. Some 10,000 people have also tested positive during the same period. Health officials say more than 85 million doses of the COVID vaccine have been administered and the process is accelerating. Authorities have warned that failure to follow health protocols will lead to another peak in the disease.