World

As the sun sets on an era of digital communication, Skype will ring its final call this May. Microsoft, the technology giant behind this once-revolutionary platform, has decided to retire the internet calling service that has, for nearly two decades, transformed the way we connect across geographical divides. This decision, although bittersweet, aligns with Microsoft’s broader strategy. By retiring Skype, the company aims to streamline its portfolio, allowing a sharper focus on its homegrown Teams service. In a world where…

It’s that time of year again in Hollywood: the weekend of the Oscars. An air of anticipation fills the streets as stars and industry heavyweights gather to celebrate cinematic achievements. Just last night, the Oscar Wilde Awards paved the way for this grand event, showcasing the remarkable contributions of Irish talent in Hollywood. Walking on the iconic Green Carpet was not just a formality; it was a tribute to the legacy of Irish storytelling, all in support of the US Ireland Alliance and its dedicated scholarship fund.…

Clashes erupted in Athens as hundreds of thousands took to the streets across Greece to commemorate a profound tragedy—the second anniversary of the nation’s deadliest train disaster. This event, marked by rallying cries for justice, unfolded against the backdrop of a nationwide strike that grounded air, sea, and rail transport to a standstill. Two years ago, on a fateful night, fifty-seven souls, many of them students, lost their lives when a passenger train collided with a freight train near the Tempi gorge in central…

In a multifaceted conflict characterized by deep-rooted tensions, Palestinian militant group Hamas has urged for heightened international pressure on Israel as both parties navigate the next stage of a fragile ceasefire. This distinct phase follows a complicated history marked by loss and sorrow. Negotiations commenced in Cairo, where mediators from Egypt, Qatar, and the United States are engaged in what has been described as "intensive" discussions. These talks aim not only to extend the current truce but also to seek a…

In the wake of the passing of Gene Hackman and his beloved wife, Betsy Arakawa, it feels only fitting to pause and reflect on the extraordinary life and career of a man whose talents have left an indelible mark on the silver screen. As one of the most celebrated actors of his generation, Hackman's journey was not just about the accolades he garnered but also about the rich tapestry of experiences and connections he made along the way. Gene Hackman was born on January 30, 1930, in San Bernardino, California. Raised in a…

It is with great sorrow that we reflect on the shocking news of the passing of Gene Hackman, a legendary two-time Oscar winner, and his beloved wife, Betsy Arakawa. Preliminary findings from a medical investigation indicate there was "no external trauma," which leaves many questions lingering in the minds of family, friends, and fans alike. At 95 years old, Gene Hackman's life was rich with remarkable achievements, both in his extensive filmography and in his personal journey. Sadly, he and Betsy, aged 65, were found…

In a noteworthy prelude to their upcoming meeting, U.S. President Donald Trump expressed a newfound respect for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. This shift was particularly striking in the context of Mr. Trump’s earlier remarks, where he had pointedly labeled Mr. Zelensky a "dictator." The dynamic between the two leaders has clearly evolved, allowing for an atmosphere of optimism ahead of their future discussions. "I believe we’re going to have a very productive dialogue tomorrow morning," Mr. Trump stated…

Andrew Tate's Return to the U.S.: A Statement of Innocence and Media Critique Upon landing in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Andrew Tate, alongside his brother Tristan, addressed a crowd of reporters, asserting that their actions and character have been largely "misunderstood." It's not unusual for public figures, especially those as controversial as the Tate brothers, to feel the weight of public scrutiny. As Tate stated poignantly, "We live in a democratic society where it's innocent until proven guilty." This raises an…

And the Oscar for the fastest twelve months in recent memory undoubtedly goes to... well, this time it's not the dramatic, sweeping epics that have captured our imaginations but rather a more subdued yet pivotal year in cinema. It appears 2025 has taken a different path compared to its predecessors, especially for Irish talent at the Academy Awards. The spotlight, however, is still shining brightly on the biopic The Apprentice, co-produced by the Dublin-based Tailored Films. With nominations for Best Actor (Sebastian Stan)…

Concern and Care: The Health Journey of Pope Francis Pope Francis is currently under medical care for double pneumonia, but there is a silver lining—he had a good night’s sleep and appears to be resting peacefully, as noted in a brief statement from the Vatican this morning. His resilience in the face of health challenges is a testament to both his inner strength and the overwhelming support he receives from around the world. Having undergone part of a lung removal in his youth, Pope Francis has faced a variety of health…