Russian jet crashes in Syria, crew killed
AFP, Moscow
A Sukhoi military jet crashed while trying to take off from Russia’s Hmeimim base in Syria on Tuesday, killing the crew, Russian news agencies quoted a military spokesman as saying.
“The Su-24 plane rolled off the runway and broke up while accelerating for takeoff… The plane’s crew did not have time to eject and died,” the spokesman said.
He did not clarify how many people died, but the Su-24 usually has a crew of two.
Thai junta promises elections in late 2018
AP, Bangkok
More than three years after seizing power in a coup, the head of Thailand’s military government on Tuesday promised elections in November next year.
Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha told reporters that his government will give the exact election day in mid-2018. “Around June 2018, we will announce an election date,” he said. “And around November, we will hold the elections.”
Fatah, Hamas to discuss security in Gaza
Reuters, Gaza
Negotiators from rival Palestinian factions Fatah and Islamist group Hamas will discuss security in the Gaza Strip at unity talks in Cairo on Tuesday, including a proposal that would see Fatah security personnel deployed to Hamas-dominated territory.
The plan for 3,000 Fatah security officers to join a Gaza police force over the course of a year, part of a unity deal mediated by Egypt in 2011, would restore much of the influence of Fatah leader President Mahmoud Abbas in Gaza and further loosen Hamas’ grip.
Lawmakers reject fifth Duterte
cabinet pick
Reuters, Manila
Philippine lawmakers rejected President Rodrigo Duterte’s choice of health secretary on Tuesday, making her the fifth cabinet member to have been turned down since Duterte came to power. No reason was given for the rejection of Paulyn Ubial, who has been in public office for 27 years. In the Philippines, all cabinet ministers must be approved by the Commission on Appointments and hearings can take place long after they start work.
