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The latest reporting from across the Belfast Herald news desks.
Von der Leyen proposes EU sanctions and trade suspension against Israel over Gaza crisis
European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen announces plans to seek sanctions and a partial trade suspension against Israel, citing the ongoing famine in the Gaza Strip as the reason. She also immediately suspends certain bilateral funds.
Israel strikes Hamas office in Doha during meeting
Israeli airstrikes targeted a Hamas leadership office in Doha, Qatar, during a meeting, killing six people including a Qatari security officer. Hamas and Palestinian sources reported the entire leadership survived. The strikes occurred on 9 September 2025.
Spain enacts permanent ban on arms and fuel shipments to Israel
Spain has implemented a permanent prohibition on ships carrying fuel and aircraft transporting military equipment to Israel from its ports and airspace. The measure follows a declaration of genocide in Gaza and includes restrictions on entry for individuals implicated in violations.
Two people are injured, flights are halted and the airspace is closed after multiple Houthi-launched drone attacks
Two people are injured, flights are halted and the airspace is closed after multiple Houthi-launched drone attacks, including some intercepted and at least one on the passenger hall of Ramon Airport near Eilat in Southern District, Israel.
Hamas releases video of two Israeli hostages in Gaza
Hamas published a video showing two Israeli hostages, Guy Gilboa-Dalal and Alon Ohel, in Gaza City, with Gilboa-Dalal stating he had survived 22 months of conflict and that hostages would remain in the city during an anticipated IDF operation.
Starmer reshuffles cabinet after Rayner resigns over tax issue
Prime Minister Keir Starmer reshuffles his cabinet following the resignation of deputy prime minister Angela Rayner, who stepped down after admitting underpayment of stamp duty on a property purchase. The reshuffle includes new appointments to key ministerial roles.
Trump signs order to rename Defense Department as War Department
U.S. President Donald Trump issued an executive order renaming the Department of Defense to the Department of War, effective as a secondary title pending congressional approval. The change follows a long-standing proposal to refocus the military on combat readiness and a warrior ethos.