Podcast Summary
UK-France migration deal: UK Labour Party leader Keir Starmer plans to seek permission to return migrants to France, in exchange for accepting a certain number of asylum seekers, and closer cooperation with European and EU agencies.
UK Labour Party leader Keir Starmer is reportedly seeking permission to return some migrants arriving in small boats to France, in exchange for accepting a certain number of asylum seekers from Europe. This agreement, which is expected to be discussed at a summit of European leaders, would also involve closer cooperation with European and EU agencies like Frontex and Eurodaph, allowing the UK to instantly check an individual's previous asylum claims. Meanwhile, in the US, Democratic leaders Chuck Schumer and Adam Schiff have reportedly urged President Joe Biden to consider withdrawing from the presidential race due to concerns over his fitness. In other news, two British men, Juan Safwentes and Farug Abdul Razak, have gone missing in Sweden, and are believed to be travel agents from North London. The foreign office is in touch with Swedish authorities regarding their disappearance.
Middle East tensions, Health concerns: Middle East tensions escalate between Israel and Hezbollah, while women's chances of getting pregnant through IVF decrease as average age for treatment surpasses 35
The situation between Israel and Hezbollah is escalating, with Hezbollah threatening retaliation after civilians have been killed in Lebanon. This comes after Hezbollah announced a support front with Palestinians following the October 7 attacks. Israel maintains that it is only targeting Hezbollah. Meanwhile, in a different context, the average age for women starting IVF treatment has surpassed 35 for the first time, and fertility regulators are warning that women are jeopardizing their chances of getting pregnant by waiting too long. IVF is successful in 42% of women under 35 but only 20% for those in their late 30s. These two seemingly unrelated stories serve as reminders of the complexities and potential dangers in the Middle East, as well as the importance of addressing health concerns in a timely manner.