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BBC News
5 hours ago
- Politics
- BBC News
French ministers escalate Spain row over Jewish teens removed from flight
The removal of a French group of Jewish teenagers from a flight in Spain last week has prompted a diplomatic row, after their group leader was handcuffed by police and a Spanish minister called them "Israeli brats".French government ministers Aurore Bergé and Benjamin Haddad have given a strongly worded statement condemning Spain's transport minister Óscar Puente's remarks and the actions of teenagers and their counsellor were among the group of 44 children and eight adults who were taken off Vueling flight V8166 from Valencia to Paris on 23 July while on their way home from a summer camp. Vueling says the French group was removed from the flight because of "disruptive behaviour". The airline has said it aims "to provide a rigorous and transparent account of the facts".However, accounts of what happened before the incident differ dramatically, and have led to allegations of antisemitism, which have been vehemently rejected by both the airline and Spanish on social media showed police holding the female counsellor down on the ground in a corridor while they handcuffed two French ministers, who have both since spoken to the woman, said she had been signed off work for 15 days because of "temporary incapacity"."No act justifies the disembarkation and the excessive and brutal use of force by the Guardia Civil against the young woman," said Bergé and Óscar Puente later deleted his post describing the teenagers as "Israeli brats", the French ministers said they strongly condemned his statement for "equating French children who were Jewish with Israeli citizens, as if this in any way justified the treatment they were subjected to"."We will never accept the trivialisation of anti-Semitism," the ministers said the captain had ordered the removal of the group from the Vueling plane after they had ignored instructions from the airline has given two statements since the events unfolded a week alleged that the group had "mishandled emergency equipment and actively disrupted the mandatory safety demonstration, repeatedly ignoring instructions from cabin crew".Vueling said that as part of its internal inquiry it had taken witness statements from other passengers who had backed up its account and that of the police. It accused some of the children of adopting "confrontational behaviour"... such as "attempting to loosen life jackets, tampering with overhead oxygen masks and removing a high-pressure oxygen cylinder", violating air safety laws. An anonymous passenger gave a statement to Spain's La Sexta TV appearing to back up Vueling's statement, saying that some of the children had pulled life jackets out and pressed the crew-call other accounts have disputed the airline's version of passenger called Damien, who was at the front of the plane and not part of the young group, told Europe 1 radio that the children had been "very calm, especially for teenagers... there was one who called to his friend for two seconds but everything was perfectly fine".Karine Lamy, the mother of a teenage boy in the group, told i24 TV that "one child sang a song in Hebrew, then he began shouting and the staff on board came up to him and the group leader and warned him immediately that if he carried on singing or making a noise they'd call the police". She said the children then calmed down and five minutes later the police boarded the plane and told the leader and the whole group to to Damien, a flight attendant said during the safety demonstration that there was a security issue and that they were going to call police."There was no shouting, no violence," he insisted, adding that he had no idea whether there had been any interruption to the safety demonstration as everyone was paying attention to it at the time.A lawyer for the Club Kineret summer camp group, Murielle Ouknine-Melki, told French TV that some of the children wore a kippah (Jewish skullcap) and she had no other explanation for what happened other than that they were said it categorically denied that its crew's behaviour related to the religion of the passengers. The Guardia Civil said its officers too were not aware they were the weekend, France's foreign minister, Jean-Noël Barrot, contacted Vueling's chief executive, Carolina Martinoli, to express his "deep concern" at what had happened.
Al Etihad
25-06-2025
- Al Etihad
Eurostar trains delayed and cancelled after cable theft
25 June 2025 20:45 LONDON (THE NEW YORK TIMES) Eurostar, the high-speed train service that connects Britain with continental Europe, was facing a second consecutive day of severe delays after cables were stolen near Lille, France, and two people were killed when they were hit by trains, the company train operator said there were delays and last-minute cancellations Wednesday after a "cable theft' that morning near the station in northern France, and advised passengers to cancel or postpone their was also forced to cancel routes Tuesday, after two people were stuck in separate incidents near Lille and Arras, both in northern France, on its high-speed line between Lille and Paris. The company said in an emailed statement that normal traffic resumed by 1 p.m. in London, although it expected some delays through the problems come during a time of heightened fears about sabotage in Europe, and they follow several other major disruptions to European rail services because of cable theft or May, more than 10,000 passengers were stranded in Spain after what the country's transport minister, Oscar Puente, called a theft of "low-value cable.'Last July, arsonists in France cut and burned cables for high-speed rail lines before the opening ceremony of the Paris Olympics, targeting important signal stations in three different areas. Experts say that the unusually dense French rail network is especially vulnerable to sabotage, in part because it is so 600 meters, or nearly 2,000 feet, of copper wiring was stolen from Eurostar, Julien Duperray, a spokesperson for France's national railway company, wrote in an email. Though no motive was given for the latest theft, railways have been vulnerable to thieves looking to make some quick cash, in addition to vandals and of copper wiring have recently surged in both the United States and France, in part because the price of the conductive metal has soared with the rise of electric vehicles and other technologies. "We implement protection measures, and security devices are arranged along the railway network, but robbery sometimes happens - the value of copper is presently high,' Duperray said.
Al Arabiya
25-06-2025
- Business
- Al Arabiya
Maersk divests from companies linked to illegal Israeli settlements in West Bank
Danish shipping giant Maersk announced its decision to divest from companies linked to illegal Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank. In a statement on their website, dated June 2025, Maersk said, 'Following a recent review of transports related to the West Bank, we further strengthened our screening procedures in relation to Israeli settlements, including aligning our screening process with the OHCHR database of enterprises involved in activities in the settlements.' For the latest updates on the Israel-Palestine conflict, visit our dedicated page. The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights lists the name of companies that operate in the settlements, where about 500,000 Israelis reside in a blatant violation of international law. This decision also comes after Yemen's Houthis have targeted Israel-linked ships in the Red Sea for nearly two years in what they say is in solidarity with Palestinians. The Iran-backed Houthis have regularly fired missiles and drones at Israel since the Gaza war broke out in October 2023. Last year, Spain banned Maersk ships carrying military goods to Israel from using its ports. In May 2024, Spanish Transport Minister Oscar Puente said the foreign ministry had denied a request to dock by the Danish-flagged ship Marianne Danica, saying it 'was carrying weapons to Israel.' The refusal to allow the Marianne Danica to dock at the Mediterranean port of Cartegena came just days before Spain, along with Ireland and Norway, recognized a Palestinian state on May 28. Spain stopped its own defense companies from shipping arms to Israel in October 2023.
Morocco World
14-06-2025
- Business
- Morocco World
Morocco-Spain Tunnel: Bridging Continents for Euro-African Integration
A tunnel between worlds In the bustling port of Tangier, ferries cross back and forth, carrying families, tourists, and goods between Morocco and Spain. This route has long been crucial to connecting Africa and Europe. Today, with the proposed building of the Strait of Gibraltar tunnel, a new chapter in this cross-continental relationship is forming. The Strait of Gibraltar tunnel link between Morocco and Spain has once again captured international attention, thanks to recent developments in the two countries. On May 10, Spain allocated €1.6 million to conduct updated feasibility studies for an underwater rail tunnel that would link Punta Paloma in Cadiz to Punta Malabata near Tangier. The project, formally revived in 2023, following a period of uncertainty and disruption since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, has been under discussion since the 1980s. A recent joint statement issued by Spanish Transport Minister Oscar Puente and Moroccan authorities emphasizes the geostrategic importance of this crossing, which is seen to be more than just a physical connection: a bridge between continents, cultures, and economies. Despite its promise, the Morocco-Spain tunnel initiative faces daunting technical challenges. The 42-kilometer rail tunnel would extend as low as 475 meters beneath the sea and have to pass through a seismically sensitive region near the Azores-Gibraltar fault line. Symbolism and soft power To Morocco, the tunnel is more than simple infrastructure. It is a demonstration of soft power and continental leadership. With the only African country to co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup, (co-hosting alongside Spain and Portugal), Morocco is already making news. While early expectations had hoped to see the tunnel finished in time for the tournament, revised projections now place completion closer to 2040. Still, the political and cultural momentum remains significant. In April, Spain's Foreign Minister Jose Manuel Albares called for a strengthening of EU-Morocco ties, stressing the importance of bilateral cooperation amid rising global uncertainty. Morocco is not just a neighbor, but a strategic partner for Europe. The Morocco-Spain tunnel project could become a literal and symbolic way to make these ambitions a reality. The cross-cultural initiative Operation Crossing the Strait (OPE), was referenced by Spain's Ministry of Home Affairs as an example of 'good coordination between neighboring countries and of the great preparatory work of our technical teams,' demonstrating how joint infrastructure efforts can be an example of broader diplomatic harmony. OPE is a 'permanent [form of] communication between our respective teams.' Local impact and ferry trade Economically, the tunnel would transform regional logistics. Analysts at CAPMAD observe that the tunnel is part of wider EU-African trade ambitions, particularly the European Green Deal and supply chain expansion into North and West Africa. Morocco, already a key trade partner with Spain and the EU, could further consolidate its role as an African entrance point for goods and labour. This is especially critical considering shipping disruptions and global instability that are pushing European countries to diversify supply routes and expand regional partnerships. The economic stakes are high. Spanish transport officials state that the tunnel will bring a 'quantitative and qualitative acceleration of the [Moroccan] economy' by opening up the movement of goods, services, and people. In May 2025, the launch of new high-speed ferry services between Tarifa and Tangier by Balearia once again highlights this point. As one Balearia spokesperson explained to Morocco World News, 'it's a very important route for our customers, for Moroccans, and for all tourists visiting Morocco, particularly the city of Tangier.' This only adds to the commercial viability of investment in permanent infrastructure, with the Strait of Gibraltar tunnel initiative demonstrating the growing demand for safe and efficient crossings. If ferry traffic is any indicator, demand for connectivity is high. The Gibraltar tunnel would not replace ferries but supplement them, offering a permanent, weather-resistant alternative. A tunnel of dreams and doubts Beyond the geopolitics and financial considerations lies a human story. For thousands of Moroccan families with relatives in Spain, and for students, workers, and tourists traveling between continents, the Strait of Gibraltar tunnel represents something tangible: ease of movement, integration and opportunity. Whether or not this vision is achieved depends not only on engineering calculations, but on sustained political will and inter-regional cooperation. However, not all are as optimistic. There is concern with the environmental implications of drilling through the sensitive seabed of the Strait of Gibraltar, especially in an area so crucial to marine biodiversity and the connecting point between the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean . Meanwhile, the Morocco-Spain tunnel has often faced criticism as skeptics point to the decades-long history of missed deadlines and political detours. Although preliminary discussions began in the early 2000s, physical progress has been lacking, with each administration restarting efforts without any concrete goalposts. Technically, the tunnel would surpass even the Eurotunnel (connecting the United Kingdom, France, Belgium and The Netherlands) and Norway's Ryfast in complexity. The seismic hazards in the region make it unlike any existing underwater rail connection, as evaluated in regional infrastructure assessments. A future in the making In many ways, the Morocco-Spain tunnel is more than just an engineering feat; it represents the future of EU-African relations. It challenges the countries involved to contemplate something greater than borders and short-term gains. The tunnel is not simply steel and concrete, but the idea of greater continental solidarity. As plans move forward and studies develop, the question remains: Will the Gibraltar tunnel unite communities and close old gaps, or expose new ones? If completed, the project could stand as one of the 21st century's most powerful symbols of Euro-African unity. For now though, it remains merely a vision. Even if the train takes years to arrive, the journey it promises has already begun. Tags: economyMorocco spainunderwater tunnel
Travel Daily News
02-06-2025
- Business
- Travel Daily News
Ryanair
Ryanair launches its 'League of Delays,' urging passengers to pressure EU Transport Ministers to fix national ATC staff shortages. Ryanair launched its ATC 'League of Delays', highlighting those EU states whose short staffed and mismanaged ATCs are causing the worst delays for Ryanair flights and passengers so far this year from 1 Jan to 26 May 2025. ATC LEAGUE OF DELAYS Flights Delays* Passenger Delays* Transport Minister France 15,634 2,814,120 Philippe Tabarot Spain 11,576 2,083,680 Oscar Puente Germany 4,367 786,060 Patrick Schnieder Portugal 2,601 468,180 Miguel Pinto Luz UK 1,642 295,560 Heidi Alexander *Delays refer to Ryanair flights and passengers from 1 Jan to 26 May 2025 2024 was a record year for ATC delays despite 5% fewer flights in Europe than pre-Covid. This was due to National ATCs being mismanaged and short staffed, especially for the first wave of morning flights. While ATC delays soared in 2024, ATC fees to airlines and passengers rose by double the rate of inflation (+35% since Covid). The EU Commission and Govts have taken no action to fix their shoddy ATC services and ATC delays will now be even worse in Summer 2025. Ryanair has long campaigned for reform to ensure ATCs are fully staffed but ATC delays are getting worse. EU Transport Ministers are responsible for their national ATC services. They must not be allowed to preside over another year of record ATC delays due to mismanagement and staff shortages. Ryanair calls on all passengers to visit the 'Air Traffic Control Ruined Your Flight' webpage and use the template email to complain directly to their national Transport Minister, and demand that these lazy politicians take action to properly staff ATC services and avoid unnecessary ATC delays this summer. Ryanair's Michael O'Leary said: 'Our ATC 'League of Delays' exposes Europe's worst ATCs for delays due to mismanagement and staff shortages from Jan to May 2025. We will hold EU Transport Ministers responsible for allowing such unnecessary and avoidable ATC delays to repeatedly occur. National ATCs are made aware of airline schedules almost 12 months in advance, so there is no reason for them not to adequately staff up to manage this traffic. This is especially important for the first wave of morning flights as any morning delays knock on to flights throughout the rest of the day. Fixing Europe's ATC staff shortages as well as protecting overflights during national ATC strikes would eliminate 90% of EU's ATC delays but Transport Ministers won't take any action. Ryanair calls on passengers to visit the 'Air Traffic Control Ruined Your Flight' webpage to demand that their national Transport Ministers take action to properly staff their national ATC services and avoid record ATC flight delays this summer.'
