Pope Leo XIV asks for dignity for migrants in the Canary Islands

The pontiff threw flowers into the sea in memory of those who died on the Atlantic route.

A call from the port of Arguineguín

This Thursday, Pope Leo XIV visited the port of Arguineguín, in the Canary Islands, one of the points of greatest arrival of migrants to Europe. From there, he called for respect for his dignity and rights.

“Human dignity does not depend on a nationality nor is it lost when crossing a border,” the pontiff recalled. He asked governments to avoid indifference in the face of migratory tragedies.

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The place was singled out in 2020 for the conditions suffered by hundreds of people, who spent weeks in makeshift camps without adequate services. Today, the Canary Islands continue to be a key route for migrants from West Africa.

Tribute at sea

Leo XIV also paid tribute to those who have lost their lives on the journey. Accompanied by migrants, he threw flowers into the ocean, a gesture similar to that of Pope Francis in Lampedusa in 2013.

The pontiff urged countries of origin, transit and destination to protect migrants and combat human trafficking networks. He warned that Europe cannot get used to its seas becoming places of suffering without recognizing the human stories behind it.

Ambassadors of the US and Canada congratulate Mexico for its World Cup victory

Ambassadors from the US and Canada celebrate Mexico's 2-0 victory against South Africa at the opening of the World Cup.

The ambassadors of the United States and Canada in Mexico, Ronald Johnson and Cameron Mackay, respectively, congratulated the country on the victory of the Mexican National Team against South Africa (2-0) in the opening match of the FIFA World Cup.

Reactions of diplomats

The American ambassador celebrated the start of the World Cup, which he called “the largest sporting event in history.” On social networks he wrote:

“As we celebrate the beautiful game that unites our three nations, we also celebrate the cooperation, friendship and shared purpose that help make this the safest and most memorable World Cup in history.”

Johnson highlighted that the Azteca Stadium is hosting an inaugural match for the third time, becoming the first stadium in the world to reach that milestone. He attended accompanied by his wife Alina Johnson.

For his part, the Canadian ambassador wrote: “What a game! I congratulate the Mexican National Team for their victory. Likewise, I recognize South Africa. After 16 years, seeing them compete again is inspiring.”

Call for civility

At the start of the fair, the president of the Senate board of directors, Laura Itzel Castillo, ratified her call for civility, coexistence, security, respect for the law and the protection of the rights of all people to prevail.

Castillo stressed that soccer remembers the strength of a united people. He reiterated the statement of the Permanent Commission so that civility and security prevail in the tournament. “Long live Mexico!” he emphasized.

Finally, he celebrated the victory of the Mexican squad and urged the National Team to be proudly celebrated for raising the name of the country.

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The US bombs Iran and Tehran responds with attacks on neighboring countries

Washington's new bombings in Iran unleash retaliation against coalition bases in the region.

The United States launched new airstrikes against targets in Iran, in an escalation that reignites tensions in the Middle East. President Donald Trump warned that more military action could come and accused Tehran of dragging out negotiations for an agreement.

“He will pay the price,” said the US president.

Iranian response

The reaction was immediate. Tehran carried out attacks against targets in Bahrain, Kuwait and Jordan, countries that host US bases. According to official reports, several projectiles were intercepted with no casualties reported. Jordanian authorities confirmed the neutralization of missiles aimed at military installations.

Details of the offensive

The United States Central Command reported bombings against air defense systems, radars and control centers in Iranian territory. An oil tanker accused of violating sanctions was also disabled. Iran denounced damage to civilian infrastructure and described the actions as a violation of its sovereignty.

Diplomatic tension

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that his country reserves the right to respond and will reconsider its position in the negotiations. Meanwhile, regional mediators like Qatar are pushing for talks to avoid further escalation. Both parties claim to seek a negotiated solution.

The conflict is complicated by Israeli military operations in the region. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu maintains a firm stance against Iran and its allies, which, coupled with recent exchanges of attacks, raises the risk of an expansion of the conflict.

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Canada proposes law to limit minors’ accounts on networks

Canada requires platforms to demonstrate security to allow accounts for minors under 16 years of age.

Canada introduced a law that could prevent minors under 16 from having social media accounts unless companies prove their platforms are safe. The initiative joins a global effort to strengthen child protection in the digital environment.

Key measures and new regulator

The government will create the Canadian Digital Security Commission, a regulator that will define the criteria for obtaining exemptions. Culture Minister Marc Miller said the process could take up to 18 months.

“We are failing our children. Enough is enough. We need basic protections,” Miller declared.

The law covers seven types of harmful content, including that which induces self-harm, incites violence, promotes hatred or spreads intimate images without consent. Platforms with adult content will not be eligible for exemptions.

Artificial intelligence chatbots will also be regulated, which must implement crisis intervention protocols.

International impact and reactions

Canada is following Australia, where companies have already revoked access to some 4.7 million accounts identified as minors since their use was banned for those under 16 years of age. The Australian measure generated an intense debate about privacy, child safety and mental health.

Other countries such as the United Kingdom, France, Spain, Denmark, Brazil, Indonesia and South Korea are studying or developing similar approaches.

Lianna McDonald, director of the Canadian Center for Child Protection, welcomed the initiative and warned that online sextortion has increased dramatically. A Canadian official indicated that they will seek to learn from the Australian experience.

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