World News: Israel orders evacuation from part of Gaza’s southernmost city of Rafah

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Israel has expanded its military operations in the Gaza Strip, targeting key locations and issuing evacuation orders in the southern city of Rafah.

Over the weekend, the Israel Defense Forces intensified its offensive in Gaza, focusing on the southern city of Rafah.

The IDF on Sunday issued immediate evacuation orders for residents in the Tel al-Sultan neighborhood, designating it a "dangerous combat zone."

Thousands of Palestinians fled their homes, adding to the substantial number of displaced people in the region.

Also on Sunday, Israeli airstrikes targeted the Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis, the largest medical facility in southern Gaza, resulting in the deaths of at least five individuals, including a senior Hamas political bureau member.

Another senior member of the Hamas political bureau and his wife have also been killed in a strike in Al-Mawasi.

In Italy, Pope Francis has made his first public appearance in over five weeks, following a prolonged hospitalization due to bilateral pneumonia. The 88-year-old pontiff's return was met with widespread relief and joy.

"Thank you all and I see this lady with the yellow flowers, she is good!"

On Sunday, Pope Francis emerged from Rome's Gemelli Hospital, where he had been receiving treatment since mid-February.

Appearing in a wheelchair, he greeted some 3,000 people outside the hospital.

Expressing his gratitude, the Pope said thank you to everyone.

While the Pope faced significant health challenges, including acute respiratory crises and early-stage kidney failure during his hospitalization, he remained conscious and continued his papal duties.

Upon discharge, Pope Francis stopped at the Basilica of Saint Mary Major to offer prayers before returning to the Vatican.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney called a snap federal election on Sunday for April 28, aiming to secure a mandate to confront tariff threats from the United States.

The announcement comes just nine days after Carney took office, following the resignation of Justin Trudeau.

The urgency stems from U.S. President Donald Trump's recent imposition of tariffs on Canadian exports and suggestions of annexing Canada as a 51st U.S. state.

Carney condemned these actions, labeling the trade war "the most significant crisis of our lifetimes" and asserting, "we will not let that happen."

The election campaign is expected to focus on defending national sovereignty and addressing economic challenges posed by the U.S.

On Saturday, the Earth Hour campaign united millions globally, in a symbolic action against climate change.

From 8:30 to 9:30 PM local time, iconic landmarks dimmed their lights to raise environmental awareness.

In New York City, the Empire State Building's tower lights were turned off. In Sydney, the sails of the Opera House went dark.

Rio de Janeiro's iconic Christ the Redeemer statue in Brazil, and landmarks in Hong Kong and Tokyo also switched off their lights.

Organized by the World Wildlife Fund, Earth Hour 2025 saw participation from over 180 countries and territories.Choi Chi-hee, Arirang News.