*) US launches series of air strikes targeting Houthis across Yemen The US military has hit several Houthi weapons depots in Yemen, top officials confirmed. Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin called it a "unique demonstration" of the US's ability to strike even deeply buried, fortified sites. The use of B-2 stealth bombers highlights the US's global reach, with strikes targeting Houthi positions. Since mid-October 2023, the Houthis have launched multiple missile and drone strikes against Israeli targets in solidarity with Gaza, which is under a brutal Israeli war. *) Resolving Gaza crisis is key to stop regional war: Hamas official A senior Hamas official Basem Naim said that any resolution to the escalating regional conflict depends on addressing the original crisis in Gaza. With the war in Gaza entering its second year, clashes have intensified in southern Lebanon, where Israeli forces confront Hezbollah militants, raising concerns about a broader conflict involving Iran. Diplomatic efforts to cease hostilities are faltering, particularly following Iran's recent missile attack on Israel. Naim asserted that a lasting solution cannot be achieved without resolving the Gaza situation. *) North Korea constitutionally declares South Korea as 'hostile' state North Korea has officially declared South Korea a "hostile" state in its constitution, confirming legal changes pushed by leader Kim Jong-un. This week, the country destroyed roads and railways linking the two nations, with state media calling it a necessary step to ensure separation from the South. The military action is described as part of a strategy to solidify North Korea's sovereignty and distance itself from South Korea. *) 400-year-old Assyrian Bazaar restored and reopened in Türkiye's Mardin The 400-year-old Assyrian bazaar in Mardin, Türkiye, has reopened after a thorough restoration as part of the "Street Health Project," aimed at preserving the region's cultural heritage. Governor Tuncay Akkoyun highlighted Mardin's rich history and the importance of protecting its unique cultural identity for future generations. He stressed that cultural heritage fosters unity and brotherhood, which are vital for peace and prosperity in agriculture, trade, and tourism. *) Argentine province prints its own currency amid economic crisis La Rioja, a province in Argentina, has introduced its own emergency currency, the "chacho," after severe federal budget cuts under President Javier Milei's austerity plan. The local government guarantees a 1-to-1 exchange with pesos, but chachos can only be used within the province. While intended to help locals cope with high inflation and economic collapse, many merchants struggle as the currency isn't accepted by suppliers. The move echoes Argentina's financial crisis of 2001 when provinces also printed parallel currencies.