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Greece’s Asylum Freeze Sparks Global Outcry Amid Crete Migrant Surge

In a move that has ignited fierce backlash from human rights organizations and the United Nations, Greece has passed legislation temporarily halting asylum applications from migrants arriving by sea from North Africa. The three-month suspension, approved by parliament with 177 votes in favor and 74 against, allows for expedited repatriation without prior identification. Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis defended the measure as a “difficult but necessary decision” in response to a sharp rise in irregular arrivals, particularly from Libya to the island of Crete. Over 7,000 migrants have reached Crete and nearby Gavdos this year, straining local resources and prompting concerns from the tourism industry. Rights groups, including the International Rescue Committee, have condemned the ban as illegal and inhumane, warning it violates international and European law. The UNHCR echoed these concerns, emphasizing that the right to seek asylum is a fundamental human right regardless of how or wh...

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New Delhi Shuts Down Schools and Construction Amid Severe Air Pollution Crisis

The Indian capital has been enveloped in a thick, toxic smog, prompting authorities to take drastic measures as air pollution levels soared to their worst this season. The city’s air quality index (AQI) reached a hazardous 481, far exceeding the World Health Organization’s recommended safe limit.

In response, the Delhi government has closed schools, halted all construction activities, and banned non-essential trucks from entering the city. Only students in grades 10 and 12 will continue with physical classes, while others will switch to online learning.

The severe pollution is attributed to a combination of factors, including the burning of crop residue by farmers in neighboring states, emissions from vehicles, and industrial activities. The colder temperatures have also contributed by trapping pollutants close to the ground.

Authorities have implemented stage 4 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), which includes the strictest curbs to mitigate the pollution. Residents, especially children and the elderly, are advised to stay indoors as much as possible.

Despite the hazardous conditions, many residents continue their daily routines, with some expressing frustration over the recurring issue. “Everyone has a sore throat,” said Sanjay Goel, a local shopkeeper. "They should ban crop residue burning … it’s just smoke everywhere".

As the city grapples with this environmental crisis, the need for long-term solutions to combat air pollution becomes increasingly urgent.








The Indian capital has been enveloped in a thick, toxic smog, prompting authorities to take drastic measures as air pollution levels soared to their worst this season. The city’s air quality index (AQI) reached a hazardous 481, far exceeding the World Health Organization’s recommended safe limit12.

In response, the Delhi government has closed schools, halted all construction activities, and banned non-essential trucks from entering the city. Only students in grades 10 and 12 will continue with physical classes, while others will switch to online learning23.

The severe pollution is attributed to a combination of factors, including the burning of crop residue by farmers in neighboring states, emissions from vehicles, and industrial activities. The colder temperatures have also contributed by trapping pollutants close to the ground4.

Authorities have implemented stage 4 of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP), which includes the strictest curbs to mitigate the pollution. Residents, especially children and the elderly, are advised to stay indoors as much as possible4.

Despite the hazardous conditions, many residents continue their daily routines, with some expressing frustration over the recurring issue. “Everyone has a sore throat,” said Sanjay Goel, a local shopkeeper. "They should ban crop residue burning … it’s just smoke everywhere"4.

As the city grapples with this environmental crisis, the need for long-term solutions to combat air pollution becomes increasingly urgent.

1: MSN 2: India TV News 3: Yahoo News 4: ABC News


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