ISTANBUL (AA) - Here are the main topics Anadolu's English Desk plans to cover on Sunday, June 1, 2025 (coverage may change depending on developing/breaking stories):
Gaza ceasefire, prisoner exchange talks
Developments in the indirect negotiations between Israel and Hamas a day after the Palestinian movement announced it had submitted its response to mediators regarding the proposal by US envoy Steve Witkoff, aiming to achieve a permanent ceasefire, a full withdrawal of Israeli forces from the Gaza Strip, and the guarantee of humanitarian aid flow.
However, Hamas did not explicitly announce its approval of Witkoff's proposal.
Israel’s public broadcaster reported claims from Israeli sources that Hamas is seeking “modifications” to the Witkoff proposal.
Mediators are expected to examine whether Hamas response aligns with the core terms of the Witkoff proposal. If gaps are manageable, intensified talks could pave the way for a temporary ceasefire and initial prisoner exchange.
Tens of thousands displaced amid escalating violence in Sudan’s Darfur
Developments as humanitarian conditions continue to deteriorate in Sudan while displaced people continue to flee to Tawila in North Darfur coming from Zamzam camp and El-Fasher city, both of which have been heavily affected by fighting between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces.
With the rainy season approaching, aid delivery to remote areas like Tawila is expected to face severe challenges. Continued clashes in El-Fasher and Khartoum signal the likelihood of further displacement and deepening humanitarian need.
Syrian President al-Sharaa pays official visit to Kuwait
Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa will pay an official visit to Kuwait on Sunday for talks with Emir Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, aimed at deepening bilateral relations.
The visit is expected to explore enhanced political and economic cooperation between the two nations. It may also touch on Syria’s broader reintegration into Arab regional frameworks.
Presidential election runoff in Poland
A runoff between the two leading candidates from the May 18 first round takes place in Poland to elect a new president for a five-year term. Rafal Trzaskowski, the candidate of the pro-EU Civic Coalition (KO) party, faces Law and Justice party (PiS) candidate Karol Nawrocki. Incumbent Andrzej Duda of the PiS party was not eligible to run for a third term.
Single-use vapes in England - ban comes into force
Ban on the sale and supply of single-use vapes in England comes into force today. The government announced the ban on disposable vapes which are not rechargeable or refillable in October last year.
Shangri-La security dialogue concludes in Singapore
Asia’s high-profile Shangri-La Dialogue concludes in Singapore where defense chiefs of the Philippines, Thailand among others deliver statements.
India, EU launch 3-day joint drill
India and the European Union launch 3-day joint military drill in the Indian Ocean. The exercise is to focus on advanced counter-piracy operations, interoperability, tactical maneuvers, and enhanced communication protocols.
European Commission vice-president visits Philippines
European Commission Vice-President Kaja Kallas visits Philippines. Bilateral ties and international issues are expected to be discussed. Kallas is scheduled meet with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and National Security Adviser Eduardo Ano, among other officials.
Airline bosses meet in India amid US tariffs
Airline bosses to gather in the Indian capital New Delhi at their annual industry conference amid US President Donald Trump’s tariffs. The tariffs like many industries have also affected the aviation industry negatively. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) is expected to update its traffic and profitability projections as 350 airlines’ delegations come together.
SPECIAL REPORTS
INTERVIEW - Justice 'held hostage': Imam faces terror charges in France over pro-Palestine stance
Interview with Abdourahmane Ridouane, president of Pessac Mosque in Bordeaux, about facing terrorism charges and potential expulsion from France for his vocal support of Palestinian rights amid Israel's Gaza offensive.
Ridouane says he was charged with "glorifying terrorism" for social media posts supporting Palestinian resistance and honoring slain Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh. He received a four-month suspended sentence and two-year territorial ban after French authorities began prosecuting anyone referring to Hamas as a resistance movement.
He argues that "justice is being held hostage by the government to silence all voices that try to defend the Palestinian people," while also claiming authorities target him for opposing Islamophobia and criticizing French neocolonial practices in Africa.