U.S. Pushes for Comprehensive Ceasefire Deal in Gaza Despite Diverging Demands and Diplomatic Deadlock

August 5, 2025 — Dublin Efforts to broker a ceasefire in Gaza have reached a critical juncture, as the United States pushes for an “all-or-nothing” deal that would end hostilities and secure the release of all remaining hostages. President Donald Trump’s Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, conveyed the proposal to hostage families over the weekend, […]

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Statement by Tánaiste Simon Harris on the Kidnapping of Irish Citizen Gena Heraty and Colleagues in Haiti

Issued by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Simon Harris TD, has issued an update regarding the ongoing efforts to secure the release of Irish citizen Gena Heraty, who was abducted in Haiti alongside seven colleagues and a three-year-old child. Speaking on the matter, the Tánaiste stated: “Intensive […]

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Secretary Rubio’s Call with UK Foreign Secretary Lammy

Office of the Spokesperson Secretary Rubio’s Call with UK Foreign Secretary Lammy August 4, 2025 The below is attributable to Spokesperson Tammy Bruce: Secretary of State Marco Rubio spoke today with UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy.  The Secretary and Foreign Secretary Lammy discussed the humanitarian situation in Gaza and efforts to reach a ceasefire – […]

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FCDO technical competency frameworks – GOV.UK

Updates to this page Published 27 August 2013 Last updated 4 August 2025 + show all updates 4 August 2025 Updates to the Food and Agriculture and Private Sector Development technical competency frameworks. 29 April 2025 The Climate, Environment, Infrastructure and Energy technical competency framework has been updated. 11 February 2025 Added new ‘Climate, Environment, […]

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Celebrating Barack Obama: A Birthday Tribute to a Transformational Leader

On August 4th, the US and world at large celebrate the 64th birthday of Barack Hussein Obama, the 44th President of the United States and a global symbol of hope, dignity, and progressive leadership. Born in Honolulu, Hawaii in 1961, President Obama made history in 2008 by becoming the first African-American elected to the highest […]

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🏛️ Minister Byrne Hosts Bipartisan U.S. Congressional Trade Delegation at Iveagh House

Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade On 1 August 2025 Minister of State for European Affairs and Defence, Thomas Byrne TD, welcomed a bipartisan delegation from the United States Congress to Iveagh House on Thursday, 1 August 2025. The delegation was led by Chairman of the House Judiciary Committee, Jim Jordan, and included Ranking Member […]

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South African Farm Worker Claims He Was Forced to Feed Murder Victims to Pigs

A murder trial in South Africa has sparked national outrage after disturbing allegations emerged that two women were killed and their bodies fed to pigs on a farm in Limpopo province. The case has reignited debate over racial tensions and justice in rural communities. 🕵️‍♂️ Accused and Charges Three men are facing multiple charges in […]

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Irish Humanitarian Worker Among Nine Kidnapped in Haiti Orphanage Raid

Irish missionary and humanitarian Gena Heraty is among nine individuals abducted from the Sainte-Hélène orphanage in Kenscoff, near Port-au-Prince, Haiti. The incident, which occurred early Sunday morning, has prompted urgent diplomatic efforts to secure their release. 🕊️ Victims and Circumstances The victims include Gena Heraty, seven of her colleagues, and a three-year-old child. Ms Heraty, […]

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European Leaders Condemn Hamas Hostage Videos While Urging Israel to Lift Gaza Aid Blockade

European leaders have issued strong condemnations following the release of disturbing videos showing two Israeli hostages held in Gaza in visibly emaciated and distressed conditions. The footage has intensified international pressure on both Hamas and Israel to facilitate urgent humanitarian access and secure the release of remaining captives. 🎥 Hostage Footage Sparks Outrage The videos, […]

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African Continental Brief – Business, Policy, Security, and Humanitarian Affairs | Week of August 4, 2025

Business & Macro 🇿🇦 South Africa | Tariffs Cause Major Automotive LossesJendamark Automation, a South African manufacturer supplying BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Volkswagen, announced it has lost contracts worth $41 million. The losses stem from the 30% U.S. tariffs imposed on South African exports. Climate & Energy 🇳🇬 Nigeria | Dangote Refinery Appoints New CEOThe Dangote […]

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