Yazılar

Russia Restricts Telegram and WhatsApp Calls Over Alleged Law Breaches

/in /tarafından

Russia has begun restricting some voice calls on Telegram and WhatsApp, citing the platforms’ failure to share information with law enforcement in fraud and terrorism cases, the digital development ministry said. The partial blocking affects calls only, with other functions remaining operational. Authorities stated the restrictions would be lifted if the platforms comply with Russian law, including opening local legal entities and cooperating with regulators.

The move reflects Moscow’s push for “digital sovereignty,” including the development of a state-backed messaging app integrated with government services. Telegram said it actively monitors public channels with AI tools to remove malicious content, while Meta and Telegram did not immediately comment. Reporters verified that Telegram calls have been largely non-functional since August 11, and WhatsApp calls experience severe disruptions.

Critics warn that Russia’s new messaging app may track users and encourage migration from foreign platforms, while human rights groups highlight growing censorship and internet control in the country.

Houthis Launch Missile and Drone Attacks on Two Oil Tankers in Red Sea, US Military Labels Them ‘Terrorist Acts’

/in /tarafından

In a dangerous escalation, Yemen’s Houthi rebels targeted two crude oil tankers, the Saudi-flagged Amjad and the Panama-flagged Blue Lagoon I, in the Red Sea on Monday. The attacks, which the U.S. military described as “reckless acts of terrorism,” involved ballistic missiles and drones. The Houthis claimed responsibility for hitting the Blue Lagoon I with multiple missiles and drones, although they did not acknowledge the strike on the Saudi tanker.

The Amjad, laden with two million barrels of oil, and the Blue Lagoon I, carrying up to one million barrels, were attacked as they sailed near each other. Fortunately, neither vessel sustained major damage, and no casualties were reported, allowing both ships to continue their journeys.

The strikes are the latest in a series of Houthi attacks on maritime targets, which have alarmed Saudi Arabia and international maritime forces. Since November, the Houthis have intensified assaults in the region, sinking two vessels, seizing another, and killing three seafarers. The group, backed by Iran, claims to be acting in support of Palestinians amidst the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

The attacks underscore the Houthis’ growing capability to target critical shipping lanes and escalate tensions in the region, further complicating the already fragile security landscape in the Middle East. Despite the damage being minimal this time, the assaults highlight the ongoing threat to international oil shipping and regional stability posed by the conflict in Yemen.

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