Palestinian unity against Israel
Just a day ahead of the International Quds Day, tens of thousands of Palestinians have converged on the al-Aqsa Mosque compound for a congregational prayer. Palestinian media have put the number of participants at 250,000, who gathered in a show of unity, amid the recent Israeli desecration of the holy site. Following the prayers, the worshipers chanted slogans against Israel and condemned the regime for its violent crackdowns at the al-Aqsa Mosque. The gathering was held despite Israeli warnings.
Russia West warning
Tensions between Moscow and the West over Ukraine are growing to a fever pitch. Russia has warned the Western countries against pushing Ukraine into attacking the Russian territory. The Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman said the United States and its key European allies are openly encouraging Kiev to attack Russia. Maria Zakharova said a tough military response would be awaiting any further offensives against the Russian soil. This is after Moscow reported a series of attacks by Ukrainian forces on the Russian bordering regions in recent days. Zakharova also labeled the Ukrainian president a "puppet" used by the US to threaten Russia. The spokeswoman’s comment echoed a similar remark previously made by President Vladimir Putin.
Sri Lanka political crisis
Hundreds of Sri Lankan trade unions protest during a nationwide strike, demanding President Gotabaya Rajapaksa’s resignation over the worsening economic crisis. Many schools in the capital Colombo were shut and several train stations deserted on Thursday as teachers and train drivers joined mass demonstrations. Hundreds of employees of Sri Lankan state-run banks also united with other workers in a protest march on the presidential office. The trade union leaders have threatened an ongoing strike as of the sixth of May if the president and his government do not resign. The country has been witnessing the protests for weeks now. Sri Lanka is reeling from its worst economic downturn since independence from Britain’s rule in 1948. The shortage of dollar to purchase fuel, gas and medicine has resulted in high inflation and long lines outside stores and gas stations.