Journalists in Kabul

Campaigners call for end to “horrible war” in Ukraine

Reporting style, Informative: Primarily factual reporting with quoted personal views

A rally in Norwich marked the fourth anniversary of Russia’s full‑scale invasion of Ukraine, with Ukrainian community members and supporters urging continued international backing and calling for an end to the conflict. Speakers highlighted worsening conditions in Ukraine, the need for unity, and fears that Russian aggression will continue unless confronted. The event concluded with the Ukrainian national anthem and a moment of silence for those killed in the war.

The US left $7 billion worth of military equipment in Afghanistan

Reporting style, Informative: Mostly factual reporting based on a Pentagon report, with limited interpretive language.

Political context, Centre: Primarily factual coverage of the equipment left behind, with attributed criticism of the US withdrawal.

After the US withdrew from Afghanistan in August 2021, military equipment valued at about $7 billion was left behind and came under Taliban control. Citing a Pentagon report, the article lists 78 aircraft, 22,000 Humvees and thousands of advanced weapons, as well as bombs, missiles and communications equipment. The Taliban celebrated its takeover with US weapons, while social-media footage of armored vehicles reportedly moving through Pakistan and Iran fueled speculation that equipment had been sold across borders. The Pentagon said the US had supplied Afghan security forces with $18.6 billion in equipment between 2005 and 2021. US officials said they had no plans to return to recover or destroy the equipment, despite reports that functioning aircraft remained at Kabul airport.

How severely Afghanistan is affected by the climate crisis

Reporting style, Informative: Mostly factual description of climate impacts with minimal subjective commentary

Severe flooding in May devastated large parts of Afghanistan, killing hundreds and destroying entire regions. A farm affected by the catastrophe is visited to illustrate the human toll and the growing vulnerability of the country to the escalating climate crisis.

Covering the earthquake response in Afghanistan

Reporting style, Informative: Mostly factual project description with minimal subjective commentary

A Fairpicture project was commissioned after flooding prevented the client, Cordaid, from traveling to Afghanistan. Photographer Sayed Aman Sadat and editor Mickael Franci documented the first six months of humanitarian response to the October 2023 Herat earthquakes. The work highlights the efforts of Dutch Relief Alliance partners supporting affected communities amid Afghanistan’s ongoing humanitarian crisis. The project includes interviews and documentary photography depicting aid workers, local populations, and rebuilding efforts. The collected material will be used in print and online publications targeting policymakers, humanitarian professionals, and advocates for continued support in Afghanistan.

Child malnutrition crisis worsens in Afghanistan

Reporting style, Factual: Factual news footage description reporting malnutrition figures and hospital conditions.

A video report describes a worsening child malnutrition crisis in Afghanistan. UNICEF estimates that 3.7 million children suffer acute malnutrition, including about one million with severe, potentially life-threatening cases. Hospitals, especially in the south, are reporting more admissions while facing limited treatment capacity; children under two are among the most affected. Footage shows children receiving treatment at Kabul’s Indira Gandhi Children’s Hospital.

Kabul Marks Five Years of Taliban Rule

Reporting style, Factual: Factual description of a commemoration ceremony and its attendees.

A ceremony at Kabul’s Loya Jirga Hall marked five years since the Taliban returned to power after U.S. troops withdrew in 2021. Senior Taliban officials, diplomatic representatives—including Arab and Western diplomats—and media attended. The video also shows streets in Kabul on the anniversary.

Ban on Girls’ Education: How Afghan Women Continue Learning in Secret

Reporting style, Informative: Predominantly factual reporting, though it uses critical framing about Taliban repression and the risks faced by Afghan girls and teachers.

Political context, Centre-left: Critical coverage of Taliban rule and emphasis on women’s rights, access to education, and humanitarian consequences.

More than 2.6 million Afghan girls are barred from attending regular school from seventh grade onward under Taliban restrictions. Women and teachers continue education through secret schools and online classes, including a program run by Cologne-based Anar Academy that enrolled more than 1,400 girls this year. Unstable internet, poverty, and the threat of raids and violence force many students to abandon their studies, while Taliban officials claim that basic, religious, home-based, and online education remains permitted. The restrictions are compounded by Afghanistan’s worsening humanitarian crisis, but many girls continue to assert their right to learn.

School ban under the Taliban: How Afghan girls continue learning in secret

Reporting style, Informative: Predominantly factual reporting, with critical accounts of the Taliban's education restrictions and humanitarian conditions.

Political context, Centre: Fact-based coverage of Taliban education policy that emphasizes its consequences without adopting a clearly partisan political position.

Since the Taliban returned to power in August 2021, girls in Afghanistan have been barred from secondary schools and universities, excluding around 2.6 million from further education. Some schools continue teaching older girls discreetly, while the Cologne-based Anar Academy offers online classes for grades seven through twelve. More than 1,400 students joined the program this year, although internet problems, poverty and security threats prevent many from completing it. Students and teachers say education, particularly English and vocational training, is essential, but they stress that online lessons cannot replace safe in-person schooling. Taliban officials claim that home, online and religious education remain permitted, creating a narrow and uncertain space for such initiatives.

How the Taliban’s “War on Drugs” Could Backfire

Reporting style, Balanced: Fact-based investigative analysis with a strongly critical interpretation of the Taliban’s drug ban and its consequences.

Political context, Centre-left: The article is critical of Taliban governance and coercive policies, emphasizes humanitarian and economic harms, and advocates pragmatic drug-policy analysis without presenting a broader partisan platform.

The Taliban’s bans on opium cultivation and ephedra processing are eliminating vital cash income for impoverished rural families amid Afghanistan’s economic collapse, without clear evidence that drug availability or addiction has fallen. Farmers, dealers, and analysts report that Taliban members continue to control or profit from parts of the trade, while addicts face violent arrests and severely abusive rehabilitation conditions. The policy may be intended to secure international legitimacy and humanitarian aid, but the lack of viable agricultural alternatives or income support risks starvation, alienating Taliban supporters, increasing corruption, and destabilizing the regime. A sustained reduction in heroin supply could also encourage synthetic-drug production and worsen overdose risks in Afghanistan and international markets.

Afghanistan: The Taliban “Hunt” Drug Addicts

Reporting style, Informative: A reportage headline frames the Taliban’s actions, but the limited text provides little subjective commentary.

A reportage from Kabul by Ilario Piagnerelli and Andrea Vaccarella concerns the Taliban’s pursuit of people with drug addictions in Afghanistan.

Why Is a Banana Plant Dressed Like a Bride on Saptami? The Real Meaning of Kolabou

Reporting style, Informative: Mostly factual and explanatory, with some interpretive descriptions of the ritual’s spiritual meaning.

On Maha Saptami during Bengali Durga Puja, a banana plant is ceremonially bathed, dressed in a sari and placed beside Ganesha. Known as Kolabou, it is the central plant in Nabapatrika, a bundle of nine plants worshipped as an expression of the Goddess and her Shakti. Although its placement has prompted the popular belief that Kolabou is Ganesha’s bride, the ritual significance is broader: it honours nature, crops and the agricultural resources that sustain life, while reflecting Bengali regional tradition.

SSR vs SIR explained: How the Election Commission's voter list revision differs across 17 states

Reporting style, Factual: Primarily factual explainer outlining procedures, forms, and deadlines.

Political context, Centre: Non-partisan explanation of election administration.

The Election Commission of India has ordered a Special Summary Revision (SSR) of electoral rolls in 17 states and Union territories, using January 1, 2027, as the qualifying date. SSR updates existing rolls by adding eligible voters, correcting details, and identifying duplicate, deceased, or relocated voters; it differs from the Special Intensive Revision (SIR), which prepares rolls through fresh enumeration. The SSR draft roll is scheduled for November 12, 2026, with claims and objections accepted through December 11 and the final roll due January 4, 2027. Voters use different forms for enrollment, overseas registration, objections or deletions, and corrections or address changes. SIR uses 2002–04 rolls as its baseline, while SSR starts from the most recently finalized roll.

Destruction of Poppy Fields and Shooting at Farmers in Badakhshan

Reporting style, Interpretive: The article contains subjective statements and personal accounts, indicating a mix of opinion and fact.

Political context, Far right: The article discusses actions and policies of the Taliban, a far-right group.

In Badakhshan's Khash district, Taliban forces, not native to the area, initiated a violent operation to destroy poppy fields, the primary income source for many families. The operation led to clashes, resulting in multiple farmer casualties and injuries. Despite local protests and mediation by some Taliban members, the destruction continued, exacerbating the economic plight of the farmers. The Taliban's actions have been met with criticism for their harshness and lack of alternative solutions for the impoverished farmers. The situation highlights the ongoing conflict and human rights issues in the region.

Taliban, Gold, and China; Power Play in Takhar Mines

Reporting style, Balanced: The article presents a mix of factual reporting and subjective viewpoints, particularly regarding the impact of Chinese involvement and Taliban control.

Political context, Far right: The article discusses the Taliban's control and policies, which are often associated with far-right ideologies.

Chinese citizens are heavily involved in gold mining operations in Takhar, Afghanistan, under Taliban protection. The operations have sidelined local workers, leading to protests and accusations of exploitation and environmental damage. The Taliban have granted mining rights to Chinese companies, raising concerns about transparency and local economic impact. Despite local opposition, the Taliban maintain strict control over the mining areas, prioritizing foreign investment over local interests.

Meet the Woman Who Makes the Taliban Squirm

Reporting style, Interpretive: The article contains subjective statements and personal beliefs about women's rights and the Taliban's policies.

Political context, Left: The article advocates for women's rights and criticizes the Taliban's conservative policies.

Tafsir Siyaposh, a former Afghan government spokesperson, challenges the Taliban's restrictive policies on women's rights through media appearances and debates. She emphasizes that Islam grants rights to women, countering the Taliban's narrative. Despite losing her job due to the Taliban's return to power, Siyaposh continues to advocate for women's participation in society, education, and government. Her efforts have garnered significant public support, providing her some protection in a challenging environment. The article highlights the ongoing struggle for women's rights in Afghanistan under Taliban rule.

Meet the Taliban’s Would-Be Rainmaker

Reporting style, Balanced: Balanced between factual reporting and subjective interpretation

Political context, Right: Supports the Taliban's governance and economic policies

Hassib Habibi, the 31-year-old deputy director of economic cooperation at the Afghan Ministry of Foreign Affairs, is tasked with attracting foreign investment to Afghanistan under Taliban rule. Despite his intimidating appearance, Habibi is a measured and pragmatic figure who aims to rebuild the war-torn nation. He faces significant challenges, including international sanctions and the Taliban's brutal image. Habibi's personal history includes imprisonment by the former Afghan government, and he is now focused on reversing the corruption and dysfunction of past regimes. He is willing to work with any foreign country, including the United States, to uplift Afghanistan's economy, provided they respect the Islamic Emirate's laws and cultural norms.

Afghanistan and Saudi group sign oil and gas deal for Kushk-Tirpul basin exploration

Reporting style, Informative: Primarily factual reporting, though it includes attributed optimistic assessments of the deal.

Afghanistan signed a $200 million, 25-year contract with Saudi company Delta International Energy to explore and extract oil and gas from seven blocks in the 22,000-square-kilometer Kushk-Tirpul basin in Herat and Badghis. The exploration phase will last eight years. Mines and Petroleum Minister Hedayatullah Badri said extraction could help make Afghanistan self-sufficient, while former US envoy Zalmay Khalilzad and analyst Sami Wahidi presented the investment as a sign of commercial potential and a possible boost to morale and the country’s regional role. The deal comes amid unemployment and poverty following the Taliban’s return to power in 2021.

Pakistan’s Drone Strikes Are Hitting Afghan Civilians

Reporting style, Interpretive: Strongly critical of Pakistani strikes, arguing they have killed civilians, failed to weaken the TTP, and intensified conflict.

Political context, Centre-left: Emphasizes civilian protection and criticizes state violence while presenting the competing security claims and political context.

Pakistani drone and aircraft strikes in eastern Afghanistan killed at least 13 civilians, including 11 children, according to Afghan authorities and UNAMA. The account focuses on three children killed in a strike that destroyed a family home in Paktika and describes the devastation and trauma left behind. Pakistan says its operations target TTP militant infrastructure and claims to have killed 26 militants; the Taliban government calls the strikes violations of Afghan sovereignty. The piece argues that the attacks have largely hit civilian sites, done little to weaken the TTP, and fueled anger and retaliation. Talks hosted by China yielded no lasting agreement, while disputes over the border, militant sanctuaries, and mutual distrust remain unresolved.

HPV Genotype Trends in Iran: Necessity for a Reevaluation of Prevention Strategies

Reporting style, Informative: The article is based on research data and statistical analysis, with some interpretation of trends.

The study analyzes HPV genotype trends in Iran, highlighting a significant increase in certain genotypes like HPV 6, 11, 16, 31, 53, and 54, while low-risk HPV cases show a non-significant decline. The research underscores the need for targeted prevention strategies, especially for high-risk genotypes, to mitigate HPV-related cancer risks. Despite the introduction of HPV vaccines, the prevalence of high-risk genotypes remains a concern, necessitating improved vaccination coverage and public awareness. The study also considers the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on HPV management and calls for updated vaccine policies and enhanced screening programs.

Always the Same Story: What is Said on the Streets (and on the Networks) of Iran, Between Israeli Missiles and Rumors About the Collapse of the Regime

Reporting style, Interpretive: The article contains subjective statements and opinions from various individuals about the political situation in Iran and the potential conflict with Israel.

Political context, Centre: The article presents a range of views on the political situation in Iran and the potential conflict with Israel, without a clear bias towards any political spectrum.

The article discusses the tense situation in Iran amidst Israeli missile threats and internal unrest. Iranian citizens express mixed feelings on social media, with some fearing war and others seeing it as a potential catalyst for regime change. The Iranian government faces criticism for its repression of protests and handling of the situation. The article highlights the complex dynamics between Iran, Israel, and other Middle Eastern countries, with various stakeholders expressing concerns about regional stability. The potential for conflict raises fears among Iranian citizens and immigrants, who worry about the impact on their lives.

Children play at refugee camp in Kabul, Afghanistan

The article presents a visual account of World Children's Day as observed in a refugee camp in Kabul, Afghanistan, on November 20, 2020. Through the photographs taken by Rahmatullah Alizadah, the article depicts the lives of children in the camp, highlighting the innocence and resilience of the young ones in the face of adversity. One photo shows children playing, while another captures a tender moment of a girl holding her little sister, providing a glimpse into the daily life within the refugee camp.

Women Of Afghanistan Won't Give Up Their Soccer Dreams

The article discusses the Afghan women's soccer league, highlighting the challenges and progress made by female athletes in Afghanistan. It describes the championship game between Herat Storm and Kabul Fortress, noting the conservative attire and gender segregation at the event. The article recounts the history of the Kabul stadium, once a site of Taliban punishments, and the journey of Herat Storm's captain, Sabria Nawrozi, who faced societal and militant threats for playing soccer. Despite the league's temporary shutdown in 2017 and allegations of abuse against the federation's president, the league restarted, partly due to international pressure. The article also touches on the personal stories of players like Adiba Ganji, who aspires to play professionally. However, the ongoing peace talks between the Afghan government and the Taliban pose a new threat to women's soccer, as the Taliban consider women playing in public unIslamic. The article ends with Nawrozi's team winning the championship and her concerns about the future of women's soccer in Afghanistan.

Afghanistan’s Taliban-led government to form new armed forces

The Taliban government in Afghanistan has announced plans to establish a new national army, which will include members from the former regime's military. Defense Minister Mullah Mohammed Yaqoob stated the intention to create an army with ground and airspace capabilities, equipped with modern weapons. Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid emphasized the urgency of forming an army to protect Afghans and maintain peace. The new army will integrate Taliban fighters with soldiers who served in the Afghanistan National Army. The financial aspect of forming the new army is uncertain, as Afghanistan's assets abroad are frozen, but there is potential support from countries like China and Russia. Russian President Vladimir Putin mentioned the possibility of removing the Taliban from the list of terrorist organizations, subject to UN agreement.

In Cox’s Bazar, making eco-friendly bags helps ‘change lives’ of Rohingya women

In Cox’s Bazar, Rohingya women are learning to make eco-friendly jute bags at the Jute Bag Production Center, an initiative by the UN refugee agency and the NGO Forum for Public Health. This initiative provides employment to 150 vulnerable women, helping them earn an income and support their families amidst the refugee crisis. The center produces 500,000 bags annually, contributing to economic empowerment and offering an environmentally friendly alternative to plastic. Despite the low wages, the women find joy and a sense of freedom in their work. The article also touches on the broader context of the Rohingya refugee crisis, the challenges of repatriation, and the recent increase in food rations by the UN's World Food Programme, despite a funding shortfall.

Nixon’s IRS Effort Tested Limits of Presidential Power

Reporting style, Balanced: Analytical tone with interpretive historical comparisons and critical commentary

Political context, Centre-left: Critical of abuses of executive authority and supportive of institutional safeguards

Expansive assertions of presidential power under Donald Trump have revived concerns that echo Richard Nixon’s attempts to politicize the IRS. Trump’s efforts include pressuring the IRS, shielding himself from audits, and placing loyalists across key agencies, actions enabled by a compliant Congress and a supportive Supreme Court. The article recounts Nixon’s similar push to use the IRS against political enemies, which was ultimately resisted by officials such as Johnnie Walters and George Shultz. Historical contrasts highlight weakened institutional guardrails today, emphasizing the importance of civil servants willing to refuse politically motivated directives to maintain democratic norms.

The End of Trans-Atlanticism

Reporting style, Interpretive: Analytical essay with interpretive judgments about geopolitical shifts

Political context, Centre-left: Critical of illiberalism and supportive of liberal democratic values

The longstanding liberal order that underpinned trans-Atlanticism has eroded due to global multipolarity and profound political changes in both the United States and Europe. U.S. abandonment of liberal norms, rising illiberalism, tariffs, foreign-policy ruptures, and threats to European sovereignty have broken the trust that once defined the partnership. Europe, psychologically and strategically altered by recent crises, will no longer view the United States as a fully reliable ally. Although shared interests will continue to bind the two sides, trans-Atlanticism as a liberal ideological project has ended, even if cooperation persists in a more cautious and pragmatic form.

The Sport Fisherman

Reporting style, Informative: The article contains mostly factual information about Johan Aarts' experience and opinions on fishing.

Johan Aarts from Sint Willebrord has been a sport fisherman for over forty years, starting around age ten. He recently traveled to Vlaardingen Holysingel for sport fishing training with friends. Unlike in Afghanistan, where recreational catch-and-release fishing is not common, sport fishermen like Aarts catch fish for fun, not for consumption or sale. Aarts has competed in the Dutch championships seven times and was selected for the World Championships three times, though he never participated. He finished second in a recent Vlaardings fishing tournament and advocates fishing for its stress-reducing benefits and the opportunity to spend time in nature.

Camping on artificial grass at the indoor camping

Reporting style, Informative: Mostly factual reporting with some direct quotes

In Amsterdam, the indoor camping facility Outside Inn, founded by Willem Megens in 2020 near the Johan Cruijff Arena, offers a unique camping experience on artificial grass. Despite challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the business has thrived, continually adding new caravans and huts to its 25 'rooms'. With rates starting at 90 euros, it attracts guests for weekend stays and is popular among young people attending concerts in Amsterdam.

Vice President Kamala Harris speaks during the American Federation of Teachers’ 88th national convention

Reporting style, Informative: Mostly factual with some interpretation of poll results

Political context, Centre: Focus on Democratic Party and positive sentiment towards Kamala Harris

Vice President Kamala Harris has energized Democrats in the early days of her candidacy, according to a new poll from the AP-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research conducted after President Joe Biden withdrew from the race. Approximately 80% of Democrats would be satisfied if Harris became the Democratic nominee for president.

Demonstrators protest against the military policies of Israel a day before a visit by Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu

Reporting style, Balanced: Balanced reporting with some subjective elements

Political context, Centre-left: Focus on protests against military policies and international relations

Demonstrators gathered to protest against the military policies of Israel a day before Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu's address to a joint meeting of Congress in Washington. The protests highlight opposition to Israel's military actions and come ahead of a significant diplomatic event.

The ‘Home of the Giants’ Is for You, Too

Reporting style, Balanced: The article blends factual information with personal experiences and cultural insights.

Jotunheimen National Park in Norway, known as the 'home of the giants,' features the Besseggen ridge, a popular yet challenging hiking destination. The article highlights the cultural significance of the ridge, referencing Norse mythology and Henrik Ibsen's works. It also discusses the Norwegian concepts of 'friluftsliv' (open air life) and 'allemannsrett' (right to roam), which promote outdoor recreation and freedom. Despite the strenuous hike, the unregulated camping experience in Norway offers a unique adventure for tourists.

Babies Everywhere, but Not for Us

Reporting style, Opinionated: complete opinion

The author reflects on the emotional and financial challenges of undergoing in vitro fertilization (I.V.F.) treatments in Istanbul after multiple failed attempts. Living in Afghanistan, where I.V.F. is unavailable, the couple travels to Turkey for affordable reproductive treatments. Despite their dedication and significant financial investment, the treatments have not been successful, leading to a poignant realization about the possibility of never having children.

Two Security Council Resolutions and a Humanitarian Appeal: UN grapples with its role in Afghanistan

Reporting style, Balanced: Balanced between factual reporting and subjective analysis of the UN's role and challenges in Afghanistan.

Political context, Centre: The article presents a balanced view of the political dynamics within the UN Security Council and the challenges in Afghanistan.

On 16 March 2023, the UN Security Council passed two resolutions on Afghanistan, extending the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan's (UNAMA) mandate for another year and requesting an independent assessment of the situation. The resolutions followed deep divisions among council members, particularly between the United States and Russia, over the scope and duration of the mandate. The article highlights the challenges faced by humanitarian actors in Afghanistan, especially in light of the Taleban's restrictive policies on women's rights. The UN's central role in delivering humanitarian aid is emphasized, with the 2023 Humanitarian Response Plan requesting $4.6 billion to support 23.7 million people in need. The independent assessment due in November could impact future humanitarian aid scope and delivery.

Two Security Council Resolutions and a Humanitarian Appeal: UN grapples with its role in Afghanistan

Reporting style, Balanced: Balanced between factual reporting and subjective analysis

Political context, Centre: Balanced reporting on international and humanitarian issues

Recent negotiations on UNAMA’s mandate in Afghanistan highlighted divisions among UN Security Council members on issues like human rights and governance. On 16 March 2023, two resolutions were passed: one extending UNAMA’s mandate until 17 March 2024, and another requesting an independent assessment of in-country efforts. The new Humanitarian Response Plan, requesting USD 4.6 billion to support 23.7 million Afghans, was launched after a delay. The article discusses the complexities of the UN's role in Afghanistan, the differing views within the Security Council, and the challenges posed by the Taleban's restrictive policies, especially on women's rights.

Trump wants Bagram Air Base back, but has China in his sights

Reporting style, Informative: Predominantly factual reporting, with some emphasis on the risks of regional destabilization.

Political context, Centre: Reports competing positions and strategic concerns without endorsing a political stance.

Donald Trump says the United States wants to regain control of Afghanistan's Bagram air base, presenting the move as a response to China's nuclear buildup and suggesting the base is near Chinese weapons activity. China and the Taliban deny that Beijing has a presence at Bagram; China says it respects Afghan sovereignty, while Kabul says it wants bilateral ties with Washington without U.S. troops. Analysts view Bagram as a potential U.S. surveillance and military foothold against China, but warn that Trump's proposal could heighten regional tensions and prompt Beijing to strengthen security around nuclear sites and missile silos. Trump has also threatened sanctions against Afghanistan if it does not return the base.

An Afghan family flees from Jaghori district in Ghazni province to escape battles between Taliban and Afghan security forces

The article discusses the recent escalation of the conflict in Ghazni province, Afghanistan, where a U.S. military vehicle hit a Taliban-planted roadside bomb, killing three American service members. It highlights the Taliban's growing influence in the region since the NATO drawdown in 2015, and their strategic attacks on districts previously considered secure. The Taliban's surge in violence is seen as a move to strengthen their position ahead of potential peace talks with the U.S. The Afghan government's struggle to maintain control and protect civilians is also emphasized, with the recent Taliban attack on Jaghori district causing civilian casualties and displacements. The article suggests that the Taliban's tactics aim to undermine the Afghan government's legitimacy and gain leverage in negotiations, while the U.S. seeks a withdrawal before the 2020 presidential election.

My young comrade died in my arms. It would be immoral if those soldiers who survived were now betrayed - former Special Forces soldier in Northern Ireland speaks out amid Mail campaign

Reporting style, Opinionated: The article is highly opinionated, expressing strong personal beliefs and persuasive language against the prosecution of veterans.

Political context, Right: The article criticizes the Labour Government and supports the Conservative stance on protecting veterans.

The article criticizes the UK Government's consideration of prosecuting veterans who served in Northern Ireland during the Troubles, arguing it betrays those who risked their lives to maintain peace. It highlights the personal account of a former Special Forces soldier whose comrade died in his arms, emphasizing the perceived injustice of prosecuting soldiers while former terrorists enjoy immunity. The article calls for support against legal changes that could lead to such prosecutions, portraying the Labour Government as sympathetic to former terrorists and urging a return to moral clarity.

Hundreds of AC/DC fans brave the cold to line up for tickets to first Aussie tour in a decade

Reporting style, Balanced: Mixed opinions on AC/DC's current performances, with some fans expressing disappointment and others showing support.

AC/DC fans in Melbourne eagerly lined up for tickets to the band's first Australian tour in a decade, despite mixed reactions to their recent performances. The iconic rock band, formed in 1973, announced a series of stadium shows across major Australian cities in November and December. While some fans criticized the aging rockers for lackluster performances, others expressed unwavering support. The tour will kick off at Melbourne's MCG and conclude at Brisbane's Suncorp Stadium.

Tigray Clashes Spread as Ethiopia Accuses Neighbors of Backing Armed Groups

Reporting style, Informative: Primarily factual reporting, with some language emphasizing the risks and humanitarian consequences of the renewed fighting.

Political context, Centre: Straight news coverage of renewed conflict and humanitarian consequences, without an evident partisan political stance.

Renewed fighting between Ethiopia’s federal forces and Tigrayan fighters has spread from Tigray into Afar and Amhara, prompting Ethiopia to accuse Eritrea, Sudan and Egypt of backing armed groups. Tigrayan forces reportedly captured airports and the town of Erebti, while an estimated 150,000 people have been displaced in Afar. The United Nations has warned of civilian casualties from airstrikes and a mortar attack, worsening danger from communications and road disruptions, and allegations of forced recruitment by both TPLF and government forces. The escalation revives fears of a return to the 2020–2022 war, whose peace agreement remains incompletely implemented and whose displacement crisis is unresolved.

Ukraine Pounds Moscow With ‘Largest’ Drone Barrage of the War

Reporting style, Informative: Mostly factual reporting, with limited evaluative wording and attributed claims from officials.

Political context, Centre: Reports the competing actions and official claims in the war without clear partisan advocacy.

Ukraine reportedly launched its largest drone barrage on Moscow and nearby areas, with Moscow Mayor Sergey Sobyanin saying about 1,900 drones were involved, including 450 aimed at the capital. Some reportedly breached Russian defenses, damaging a residential building and an oil refinery; the attack was also reported to have killed at least two people and wounded 20. President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed Ukraine used domestically produced weapons, while additional reports cited cruise missiles and winged drones, including the Pelican in its first combat deployment. Sobyanin accused Ukraine of trying to disrupt Russia’s parliamentary elections. The report places the strike amid intensified Russian drone and missile attacks on Ukraine, which Zelensky said had included more than 2,000 drones, 1,700 guided bombs and 19 missiles over the preceding week.