Petropavlovsk-kamchatsky: A powerful magnitude 8.8 earthquake struck off the Kamchatka Peninsula in Russia, leading to the issuance of tsunami warnings across the Pacific Ocean. The US Geological Survey reported that the earthquake's epicenter was located at a depth of 20.7 kilometers and was centered 119 km east-southeast of Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky. The shallow nature of the quake raised concerns about the potential for tsunami waves.
According to Anadolu Agency, the earthquake resulted in injuries to several individuals in Kamchatka, as confirmed by regional Health Minister Oleg Melnikov to state news agency Tass. The US Tsunami Warning System has issued alerts for potential tsunami waves affecting the coasts of Russia, Japan, Alaska, and Hawaii, prompting authorities in these regions to be on high alert and take precautionary measures.
In other reports, the Gaza Health Ministry announced that the death toll in Gaza from ongoing hostilities has reached 60,034 since October 2023. The ministry disclosed that 113 bodies were recovered in the last 24 hours, with an additional 637 people injured. The total number of injuries has now risen to 145,870. The Israeli army resumed attacks on March 18, breaking a ceasefire in place since January. The conflict has led to significant casualties and injuries, with many victims still trapped under debris.
In diplomatic developments, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer declared that the UK plans to recognize Palestine in September, contingent on Israel taking substantive steps towards peace in Gaza. Starmer's statement followed an emergency Cabinet meeting and was supported by over 250 lawmakers who signed a letter urging the government to recognize Palestinian statehood. French President Emmanuel Macron has also committed to recognizing Palestine at the upcoming UN General Assembly.
Elsewhere in international relations, China and the US have agreed to extend a pause on reciprocal tariffs following discussions in Sweden. This consensus was reached after extensive talks between Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng and US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. Both nations aim to maintain stability and continue dialogue on macroeconomic issues.
The IMF has updated its global economic growth forecasts, predicting a growth rate of 3% for this year and 3.1% for the next. This revision marks an increase from previous forecasts, reflecting a more optimistic outlook for the world economy despite ongoing challenges.