Morning Briefing: March 9, 2025

By Gizem Nisa Cebi

ISTANBUL (AA) - Here’s a rundown of all the news you need to start your Sunday, including South Korea’s impeached president being released from custody, Syria regaining control over areas attacked by Assad regime loyalists, and Israel launching over 20 airstrikes on southern Lebanon despite a ceasefire.

TOP STORIES

• South Korea’s impeached president released from custody after prosecutors order his release

South Korean impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol was released from custody on Saturday after prosecutors ordered his release following a court order.

On Friday, the Seoul Central District Court ruled in favor of Yoon’s request to overturn his arrest, granting his release.

After being released, Yoon thanked the court's courage and determination in "correcting illegality," according to the Yonhap news agency.

• Syria regained control over areas attacked by Assad regime loyalists: Defense ministry

Syrian confirmed Saturday evening that it had regained control over areas in the northwestern coastal region that faced attacks from remnants of the deposed Assad regime.

A Defense Ministry spokesperson, who was not identified, made the announcement in a broadcast by SANA, the official Syrian news agency.

"Forces of the Defense Ministry achieved rapid field progress, reestablishing control over areas that witnessed treacherous attacks on public security personnel," the spokesperson said.

• Israel launches over 20 airstrikes on southern Lebanon despite ceasefire

Despite Tel Aviv having agreed to a ceasefire, Israeli warplanes on Saturday evening carried out more than 20 airstrikes on various areas in southern Lebanon.

"Israeli warplanes launched a wide-scale aerial assault on valleys and the outskirts of towns with more than 20 airstrikes,” according to Lebanon’s National News Agency.

The agency has yet to report on any casualties or material damages.

NEWS IN BRIEF

• Iran will not meet 'expectations' of 'coercive governments,' says Khamenei on Trump offer
• State of emergency declared as wildfires sweep across New York's Long Island
• Protester arrested after scaling London’s Big Ben for 16 hours with Palestinian flag
• Death toll rises to 13 in Argentina's floods as search operations continue
• Hamas denies reports about its willingness for temporary ceasefire extension in Gaza
• 9 protesters arrested at NYC Tesla showroom amid rising backlash
• Driver rams CarMax dealership in California, injuring 8
• South Sudan’s peace process at risk amid growing violence: UN
• Israel to send delegation to Doha for ceasefire, prisoner swap talks
• Ukraine’s top official meets UK security adviser on peace efforts
• Lebanon’s Hezbollah denies involvement, support for any party in Syria’s attacks
• Pope showing gradual, mild improvement in hospital: Vatican

SPORTS

• Cavaliers extend win streak to 13 with 118-117 win over Hornets

NBA-leading Cleveland Cavaliers secured their 13th consecutive win with a narrow 118-117 victory over the Charlotte Hornets.

Eight games took place in the NBA on Saturday, with the Eastern Conference leaders, the Cavaliers, hosting the Hornets at Intuit Dome. Donovan Mitchell led his team to victory with a standout 24-point performance.

• Women's Sports in Türkiye conference held in Turkish capital Ankara

The French Embassy in Türkiye and the Women’s Football Club Association held an event titled "Women's Sports in Türkiye" in the Turkish capital Ankara, falling the same week as International Women’s Day.

In her opening speech at the Friday event, France’s Ambassador to Türkiye Isabelle Dumont said: "We know that we have a long way to go in terms of gender equality. This is as true for France as it is for Türkiye and the rest of the world ... Last summer, six of Türkiye's eight Olympic medals and 17 of 28 medals in the Paralympics were won by women athletes."

BUSINESS & ECONOMY

• China imposes fresh tariffs on Canadian agricultural products

China on Saturday announced tariffs on some Canadian agricultural and food products, in response to Canada placing import levies on Chinese electric vehicles and steel products.

Products such as rapeseed oil, oil cakes, and peas will face a 100% tariff, while aquatic products and pork will see an additional 25% levy, according to state run Xinhua News Agency.

• Trump urges Republicans to pass spending bill, avoid government shutdown

US President Donald Trump on Saturday urged Republicans to support an over $1.5 trillion spending bill aimed at preventing a government shutdown, calling it a “very good” bill "under the circumstances."

“All Republicans should vote (Please!) YES next week,” Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform.