French police have arrested 12 suspects after 145 people reported being stabbed with syringes at a music festival in France on Saturday, leading to the hospitalization of more than a dozen young women.Metz Mayor François Grosdidier said a call was made to police around 9:15 p.m. local time about “syringe attacks” during the French music festival Fête de la Musique, where millions of people took to the streets across France.Grosdidier said that when authorities responded to Rue du Palais in La Rochelle, multiple girls and women between the ages of 14 and 20 were found to be victims of the syringe attacks.He said the victims were transported to a local hospital for further care after they were treated by emergency responders at the scene. The potentially injected substance, which has not been disclosed, remains under investigation as the Interior Ministry waits for the toxicological test results.Story continues below advertisement“I hope that the investigation, particularly through the examination of his cellphone, will lead to the identification of other attackers,” Grosdidier added. View this post on InstagramA post shared by François Grosdidier (@francois_grosdidier)The 12 suspects were arrested across France, according to the Interior Ministry. Four people in the city of Angouleme were reportedly suspected of having targeted around 50 victims.Get breaking National newsFor news impacting Canada and around the world, sign up for breaking news alerts delivered directly to you when they happen.Sign up for breaking National newsletterSign UpBy providing your email address, you have read and agree to Global News’ Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.Police said there were more than 370 people detained during the festival on various charges.View image in full screenThousands of people gather at the Chatelet district and on the banks of the Seine to celebrate Fête de La Musique 2025 as bands and DJs play across Paris, France on June 21, 2025. Luc Auffret/Anadolu via Getty ImagesBefore the free music festival began, French feminist influencer Abrège Soeur warned the public online that there had been calls on social media for women to be targeted with syringes during the festivities. (Soeur did not clarify how she came across this information, or where she saw it online.)Story continues below advertisementShe suggested an alert code be used “to protect women” and warned others to use the code if they saw anyone in danger.The proposed code, for anybody who appeared to be in danger, was to be asked if they bought their shirt at the clothing store H&M. If they responded with a different brand, that meant they were not in danger. She also suggested that if someone was in danger, to add “H&M, right?” to help identify that they needed help.Trending NowHow Iran could retaliate after U.S. strikes on its nuclear programSixteen billion passwords may have been stolen. Here’s how to protect yourself View this post on InstagramA post shared by Isa 🩷 (@abregesoeur_)A similar incident took place in June 2022, when several suspects around France were detained or given preliminary charges for allegedly pricking people with a needle in nightclubs or at concerts following a surge in needle attacks that seeded panic among young clubgoers.Story continues below advertisementAt the time, the French Interior Ministry, prosecutors, the national anti-drug agency, public health authorities and doctors had not determined a motive for the attacks, or whether the victims were injected with drugs, viruses or any substance at all.From January to June 2022, 1,004 people filed formal complaints with French authorities about the needle pricks, according to the Interior Ministry.In those cases that resulted in charges, medical tests did not reveal any signs of harmful substances, including so-called date rape drug GHB, authorities said. The suspects have denied all allegations.At the time, the targeted individuals, who were mostly women, had visible marks of injection, often bruises, and reported symptoms like feeling groggy. The ministry official urged caution in assuming a link between the needle pricks and GHB.The investigation into the Fête de la Musique stabbings is ongoing.— With files from The Associated PressMore on WorldMore videosIran retaliates with strikes on U.S. military base in QatarU.S. issues ‘worldwide caution’ alert as Israel-Iran conflict intensifiesVideo shows moment Bernie Sanders learned of U.S. strikes on IranU.S. Supreme Court allows Trump to restart deportations to 3rd countriesIran launches retaliatory missile attack on U.S. Al Udeid Air Base in QatarHow could Iran respond to U.S. strikes on its nuclear facilities?U.S. strikes on Iran’s nuclear program not a breach of international law: NATO‘The world would be a better place’: Iranian-Canadians hope for end to Islamic Republic rule
Read more on how Canada is mobilizing “crisis” response teams amid the escalating conflict here.What is the Strait of Hormuz and why is it so important? Learn about the critical global shipping region and Iran’s threats here.The U.S. issued a “worldwide caution security alert” late Sunday, less than 24 hours before Iran launched a barrage of missiles on an American military base in Qatar in retaliation for the strikes by the Trump administration on its nuclear sites.In a security alert posted late Sunday, the U.S. State Department said it’s advising American citizens worldwide to “exercise increased caution.”“The conflict between Israel and Iran has resulted in disruptions to travel and periodic closure of airspace across the Middle East,” the alert reads. “There is the potential for demonstrations against U.S. citizens and interests abroad.”Story continues below advertisement 3:41Global atomic watchdog holds emergency meeting after U.S. attacks on Iranian nuclear programThe alert advises U.S. citizens to consult its travel advisory, country information and any recent security alerts if planning travel.Get daily National newsGet the day's top news, political, economic, and current affairs headlines, delivered to your inbox once a day.Sign up for daily National newsletterSign UpBy providing your email address, you have read and agree to Global News’ Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.The worldwide alert, however, was just the latest in a string of alerts put forward by the U.S. State Department in recent days, including for Iraq, Jordan and Qatar.On Monday morning, the U.S. government advised that its embassy in Qatar was recommending Americans shelter in place until further notice “out of an abundance of caution.”Later in the day, the Qatar government issued an order to shut its airspace.Just a short time after, Iran announced on state television that it attacked American forces stationed at Qatar’s Al Udeid Air Base, with a caption on screen calling it “a mighty and successful response” to “America’s aggression.”Story continues below advertisementEarlier on Sunday, the department also issued a security alert for Turkiye, saying due to regional events U.S. government personnel are being cautioned to maintain a low profile.“Negative sentiment toward U.S. foreign policy may prompt actions against U.S. and Western interests in Turkiye,” the alert said. “In the past, such activities have included demonstrations, calls for boycotts of U.S. businesses, anti-U.S. rhetoric, and graffiti.”Trending NowWhat is the Strait of Hormuz and why is it so important?Sixteen billion passwords may have been stolen. Here’s how to protect yourselfSunday’s advisory comes as world leaders continue to express concerns over the U.S. launching attacks on Iranian nuclear sites, with the head of the United Nations nuclear watchdog saying he expected there to be heavy damage at the Fordo facility after bunker-buster bombs were used in the attack.Russian President Vladimir Putin also commented on Monday that he believed the involvement of countries outside the Middle East was moving the world towards great danger, comments that came after telling Iran’s foreign minister there was no justification for the U.S. bombing of Iran. 1:34Canada calls for de-escalation in Iran conflict as Carney visits EuropeIn the hours since the U.S. strikes, numerous airlines have cancelled more flights to various Middle Eastern countries, with Air France suspending flights to Tel Aviv on Monday until July 14 and Finnair cancelling its routes to and from Doha, Qatar through to this Sunday.Story continues below advertisementOn Friday, Air Canada also suspended service between Toronto and Dubai until July 3, while flights to Israel remain suspended until Sept. 8.Global News has asked Global Affairs Canada whether it plans to issue alerts similar to those of the U.S.— with files from ReutersMore on WorldMore videos145 people stabbed with syringes at France music festival, 12 arrestedIran retaliates with strikes on U.S. military base in QatarVideo shows moment Bernie Sanders learned of U.S. strikes on IranU.S. Supreme Court allows Trump to restart deportations to 3rd countriesU.S. braces for Iranian response following strikesU.S. Defense Secretary Hegseth says Iran’s nuclear ambitions ‘obliterated’ in operation Midnight HammerU.S. attacks Iran nuclear sites, Israel-Iran conflict intensifiesTrump says Iran ‘must now make peace” after US strikes on nuclear facilities
Canada and the European Union have called for a “negotiated deal” to end the conflict between Iran, Israel and the United States, both sides said in a joint statement Monday.“We express our deepest concern at the dangerous escalation following Israeli strikes on Iran, and Iran’s response. We reiterate our strong commitment to peace and stability in the Middle East, including the security of Israel, and call on all sides to show restraint and abide by international law,” a joint statement by Prime Minister Mark Carney, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa said.“We have been consistently clear that Iran can never have a nuclear weapon. A diplomatic solution remains the best way to address concerns over Iran’s nuclear program,” the statement added.Canada and the EU said they “stand ready to contribute to a negotiated deal, which imposes verifiable constraints on Iran’s nuclear program, with the International Atomic Energy Agency in charge of monitoring and verification.”Story continues below advertisementThe statement added the concern both sides had around “Iran’s destabilizing behaviour, including its nuclear proliferation risks, military support for Russia’s war of aggression in Ukraine, backing of regional armed groups, transnational repression, and systematic human rights violations.”Canada deploys ‘crisis emergency response’The Canadian government is deploying a “crisis emergency response” in the Middle East as the conflict between Israel and Iran worsens days after U.S. strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities.The response will include 24-7 assistance and consular access for Canadians in the region, Global Affairs Canada said in a statement late Sunday night.This comes as the United States has also issued a “worldwide caution” alert for its citizens abroad.Canada is also providing departure options for Canadians wishing to leave Israel or the West Bank as the crisis intensifies and will also support those who wish to leave Iran.Story continues below advertisementSunday’s planned departures from Israel had to be postponed to Monday, Global Affairs Canada said. It added that the Canadian government was in “regular communication with Canadians who have requested assistance in Iran, Israel and the West Bank.”Get daily National newsGet the day's top news, political, economic, and current affairs headlines, delivered to your inbox once a day.Sign up for daily National newsletterSign UpBy providing your email address, you have read and agree to Global News’ Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.“We continue to work in close collaboration with our international partners and exploring all available avenues to assist Canadians,” Global Affairs Canada said in its statement.The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) also issued a temporary halt on removals to Israel.More on CanadaMore videosCanada signs new partnership with Europe to deepen security, trade tiesCanada’s ambassador to U.S. will take the lead on trade talks: PMOIranian Canadians and others watch and worry after U.S. strikes on nuclear sitesNATO leaders expected to hike defence spending, but it won’t apply to all‘The world would be a better place’: Iranian-Canadians hope for end to Islamic Republic ruleMore Canadians want to join the military, but current members keep leaving‘Extremely dangerous’ heat warning effect hits GTAJohn McCallum, former Liberal cabinet minister, dead at 75“This measure is being taken given the volatile and unpredictable situation in Israel due to ongoing hostilities with Iran,” the agency said in a statement Monday.The order does not apply to individuals who are inadmissible to Canada on grounds of criminality, serious criminality, international or human rights violations, organized crime or security.The United States on Sunday attacked three Iranian nuclear sites, sparking fears of a wider regional conflict. Global Affairs Canada said in light of the U.S. strikes, Canada was “reviewing our mission security posture across the region in close collaboration with our international partners.”Global Affairs Canada headquarters in Ottawa has increased surge capacity at its 24/7 Emergency Watch and Response Centre to meet the requests from Canadians in the Middle East for emergency consular support.Twenty members of GAC’s Standing Rapid Deployment Team have been deployed in Israel, the West Bank, Jordan, Turkiye, Azerbaijan, Greece, Cyprus and Armenia. They will join hundreds of Canadian government personnel to offer ground assistance to Canadians in the region.Story continues below advertisement 8:04Carney heads to Europe to talk defence amid rising geopolitical tensionsHow to contact GACCanadian citizens and permanent residents requiring assistance can contact GAC’s 24/7 Emergency Watch and Response Centre through various means:Trending NowU.S. issues ‘worldwide caution’ alert as Israel-Iran conflict intensifies145 people stabbed with syringes at France music festival, 12 arrestedTelephone: +1 613 996 8885 (collect calls accepted where available)Email: me-mo.sos@international.gc.caSMS: +1 613 686 3658WhatsApp: +1 613 909 8881They can also follow GAC’s social media accounts on X and Facebook.Story continues below advertisement 2:25U.S. strikes on Iran leave Middle East on edgeCanadians in Iran should ‘leave now’Canadians in the region are being encouraged to register at the Registration of Canadians Abroad. This will give them regular updates about developments in the region, including travel options to leave the area.Global Affairs Canada is asking Canadians in Iran to “leave now,” since Canada is unable to provide assistance within Iran.Story continues below advertisement“Canada closed its embassy in Tehran in 2012, and there is no Canadian government office in the country. As a result, our ability to provide consular services in Iran remains extremely limited,” the department says.However, Canadian consular staff have been deployed in neighbouring countries in the region, including in Turkiye, Armenia and Azerbaijan, for Canadians who are able to leave Iran via border crossings.Details of where they should exit Iran and where they can find consular assistance will be sent to Canadians who are registered with Global Affairs Canada. 0:50Iran’s UN envoy accuses Netanyahu of ‘hijacking’ U.S. foreign policyCanada continues to provide consular support in Israel and the West Bank to help Canadians with land transportation options to a safe third country where commercial air transportation is available, Global Affairs Canada said.Global Affairs Canada’s web page on travel advice for Canadians in Israel can point Canadians to maritime travel options to Cyprus and land travel to both Jordan and Egypt.Story continues below advertisementHowever, Ottawa is cautioning Canadians to check the status of roads and border crossings before travelling.
European Union Launches a Formal Inquiry into Trade Practices in Occupied Palestinian Regions
The European Union has taken a significant diplomatic step by initiating an official review concerning trade activities associated with Israel’s ongoing operations in the occupied Palestinian territories. This move highlights a growing concern over the legal and ethical implications of economic activities linked to territorial disputes.
In a collective effort, the governments of Belgium, Finland, Ireland, Luxembourg, Poland, Portugal, Slovenia, and Sweden have formally submitted a request to the European Commission. They urge the EU’s executive branch to assess whether current trade practices align with international legal standards, particularly focusing on activities that may facilitate or support the illegal occupation.
Belgium’s Position and Legal Justification
Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prevot issued a statement via the social media platform X, affirming that the request is consistent with the opinions expressed by the International Court of Justice (ICJ). Prevot emphasized that engaging in trade that benefits or sustains the illegal occupation potentially contravenes international law and ethical norms.
He stated, “In accordance with the ICJ’s perspective, it is imperative that we scrutinize and regulate trade activities that may inadvertently endorse violations of international law.” This statement underscores the EU’s increasing commitment to uphold legal standards and human rights in its economic dealings.
Implications and Future Prospects
This diplomatic initiative signifies a shift towards a more assertive stance by certain EU member states against policies they perceive as violating international legal frameworks. The European Commission is now tasked with investigating and evaluating the trade relations involving Israel in the occupied territories, with the results to be made publicly available.
Experts suggest that if the investigation uncovers activities deemed illegal under international law, it could lead to the imposition of economic sanctions or trade restrictions. Such measures would aim to align EU trade policies with its commitments to uphold human rights and legal obligations, potentially setting a precedent for future actions in similar contexts.
Additional Context and Monitoring
This development is being closely watched by international observers and human rights advocates, as it could mark a pivotal moment in how the EU addresses economic complicity in territorial conflicts. The review process underscores the EU’s intent to ensure that its economic activities do not inadvertently perpetuate violations or undermine international law.
This article has been generated, translated, and reviewed by an AI system with assistance from a human editor. For further details and terms of use, please consult our official documentation. Vezir Agency
An intelligence briefing is a specialized presentation designed to inform high-level officials, such as the President, about critical developments related to national security. These briefings deliver concise, strategic summaries derived from intelligence agencies’ covert and overt sources. Typically, they encompass assessments of emerging threats, foreign government activities, terrorist plots, and military developments, enabling decision-makers to respond swiftly and effectively.
The Significance of President Trump’s Upcoming Briefing
When President Donald Trump receives an urgent intelligence briefing, it signifies that the nation’s top intelligence agencies have compiled the latest classified information pertinent to ongoing crises, such as the Israel-Iran conflict. This briefing, scheduled at 6:30 PM, aims to equip the President with real-time insights necessary for making informed strategic decisions. It covers analyses from key agencies like CIA, FBI, and NSA, providing a comprehensive picture of threats and opportunities in the current geopolitical landscape. Such briefings are essential during heightened tensions, allowing the President to understand the gravity and scope of potential actions.
Can President Trump Unilaterally Decide to Attack Iran?
Despite the gravity of the situation and the information he will receive, President Donald Trump does not possess the constitutional authority to unilaterally declare war or initiate a full-scale military assault on Iran. The United States’ constitutional framework delineates specific powers concerning military action:
Congress holds the exclusive power to declare war. According to Article I, Section 8 of the U.S. Constitution, only Congress can authorize a formal declaration of war, involving both the House of Representatives and the Senate. The President cannot bypass this legislative process to declare war independently.
The President can undertake limited military actions in urgent situations. Under the War Powers Resolution of 1973, the President may initiate short-term military operations without prior congressional approval, but such actions are constrained by law. The President must notify Congress within 48 hours, and the military engagement cannot extend beyond 60 days without explicit congressional approval. An additional 30-day withdrawal period is usually granted.
Long-term military campaigns require congressional approval. For sustained or large-scale interventions, both chambers of Congress must authorize the operation, approve budgets, and oversee the deployment’s scope and duration.
Historical Context and Precedents
Past examples highlight these constitutional limits. Notably, during President Trump’s first term, the targeted killing of Iranian General Qasem Soleimani sparked debate over presidential authority. Democratic Senator Chuck Schumer emphasized that Trump lacked the constitutional authority to declare war on Iran without Congressional approval. Subsequently, the U.S. House of Representatives passed legislation to restrict the President’s ability to conduct military actions against Iran without Congressional consent, with a vote of 224 in favor and 194 against.
Legal Justifications and Self-Defense
The War Powers Resolution also recognizes a broader scope for the President in cases of immediate self-defense. Under this provision, the President can take swift military action if an imminent threat is detected, provided that subsequent congressional notification and approval processes are followed. This exception allows the President to respond rapidly to urgent threats but does not grant unlimited authority for prolonged military engagement without legislative oversight.
This article was created, translated, and reviewed with the support of artificial intelligence by an editor or author. For further information, please refer to our Terms and Conditions section. Vezir Agency
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