Current Affairs - International

Health officials in Japan are closely monitoring nearly 1,000 cases of Streptococcal Toxic Shock Syndrome (STSS), a severe bacterial infection caused by group A Streptococcus bacteria. This infection triggers rapid and severe symptoms, including fever, and muscle aches, and can progress to organ failure and even death if untreated. The Japanese authorities have heightened preventive measures, emphasizing good hygiene practices and awareness to curb the spread of this contagious disease through respiratory droplets and direct contact.

Russian President Vladimir Putin recently visited North Korea, marking his first visit to the country in 24 years. North Korea, officially known as the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, is located in East Asia and shares borders with China and Russia to the north, and South Korea to the south at the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ). Pyongyang serves as its capital, and the North Korean Won is its official currency. This visit underscores diplomatic relations and geopolitical dynamics in the region, impacting global politics and security concerns.

The Summit on Peace in Ukraine, held at the Bürgenstock resort in Switzerland, aimed to address the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. It brought together representatives from numerous countries and organizations to promote peace initiatives and facilitate dialogue towards ending the war. The summit concluded with significant international support for its final joint communiqué, highlighting Switzerland's role as a venue for global peace efforts.

The Israeli Navy received its second new landing craft, INS Komemiyut, from the United States. This vessel arrived at the Haifa Naval Base on June 16, following in the footsteps of the first craft, INS Nahshon, which was also procured from the US. These acquisitions enhance Israel's naval capabilities and support various operational tasks, including troop transport and humanitarian missions.

Australia will permit non-citizen permanent residents residing in the country for at least 12 months to enlist in its armed forces from July 2024. This decision comes as Australia faces challenges in meeting its military recruitment targets. The preference will be given to citizens from the Five Eyes countries, which include Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and the United States. This initiative aims to bolster Australia's military capabilities amid perceived threats, particularly from China, and to address the current shortfall in defence personnel.