Pieter Omtzigt, a former Christian Democrat MP who revealed a child benefits scandal leading to the downfall of Mark Rutte's government, has started a new political party in the Netherlands. His party is leading in opinion polls for the upcoming snap elections. Omtzigt's centrist anti-establishment stance is compared to French President Emmanuel Macron's rise to power with a new centrist party.

The Dutch government has ceased gas extraction in Groningen due to earthquakes linked to the activity, impacting local safety and property. Despite the economic benefits historically contributed to the Dutch welfare state, public opinion shifted after a 2012 earthquake caused significant damage. A parliamentary inquiry earlier this year criticized the government's heavy reliance on gas extraction. Prime Minister Mark Rutte acknowledged the direct link between earthquakes and gas extraction, stating the closure is crucial for safety. The field may be used one last time in case of an extremely cold winter.

The Netherlands employs ambitious infrastructure like the Maeslant storm surge barrier, part of the Delta Works, to combat rising sea levels. The barrier, operational since 1997, closes automatically to protect Rotterdam and is expected to require alterations between 2060 and 2090 due to sea level rise. The United Nations reports that sea levels are rising at an accelerated rate, and the Royal Netherlands Meteorological Institute has revised its sea level rise predictions upwards. Dutch innovation also includes the world's first floating farm in Rotterdam, which is gaining international interest. These measures instill confidence in the Dutch as they adapt to the climate crisis.

The Netherlands employs ambitious infrastructure like the Maeslant storm surge barrier, part of the Delta Works, to combat rising sea levels. The barrier, operational since 1997, closes automatically to protect Rotterdam and is expected to require alterations between 2060 and 2090 due to sea level rise. The United Nations reports that sea levels are rising at an accelerated rate, and the Royal Netherlands Meteorological Institute has revised its sea level rise predictions upwards. Dutch innovation also includes the world's first floating farm in Rotterdam, which is gaining international interest. These measures instill confidence in the Dutch as they adapt to the climate crisis.

The Maeslant storm surge barrier in the Netherlands, which protects 1.5 million people and the port of Rotterdam, is expected to close more frequently due to rising sea levels. Designed for a 100-year lifespan, it has already accounted for a 50 cm sea level rise. The Netherlands, with a quarter of its land below sea level, faces increased risks as sea levels are rising twice as fast as in the 20th century according to the UN. The barrier is tested annually, drawing hundreds of spectators. Innovations like the Floating Farm in Rotterdam, which houses 40 cows and operates independently of logistics, are seen as essential. The concept, inspired by Hurricane Sandy's impact on New York, has garnered interest from Singapore and Dubai.

Amsterdam has implemented measures to transform its image, including banning cannabis smoking in the red light district, restricting alcohol sales, and planning to relocate sex workers to an erotic centre outside the city centre. These actions aim to address the concerns of residents who feel overwhelmed by tourists engaging in excessive drinking and marijuana use. The effectiveness of these measures in changing Amsterdam's reputation as a party destination remains to be seen.

The article details the harrowing journey of refugees from the Middle East to Europe, focusing on their experiences as they travel through the Balkan route with the hope of reaching Germany. It highlights the plight of individuals like Amira from Syria, who is currently in Hungary facing challenges such as police defiance and the fear of being sent to camps. The journey involves crossing multiple borders, dealing with smugglers, and enduring overcrowded conditions. Despite the hardships, the refugees' determination to seek a better life in Europe is evident. The article also touches on the various nationalities of the migrants, the assistance and obstacles they encounter, and the strategies they employ to navigate their way through Europe, including the use of smugglers and the challenges of crossing the newly erected barbed wire fence on the Hungarian border.

Millions of Syrians require humanitarian aid, with the UN's ongoing operation being one of the largest in the world. Despite over 2 billion euros in aid in 2022, experts warn that much of it, distributed via Damascus, does not reach the intended recipients. A recent UN Security Council resolution aims to provide aid bypassing the regime. The Assad regime's approval requirements for aid partners have led to allies profiting, with some on sanction lists. Local workers estimate 60-80% of aid is lost to security services or sold by businessmen connected to the regime. Corruption allegations extend to the WHO in Syria, with accusations of bribing officials and mismanagement of medical aid.

A Dutch court is scheduled to deliver a verdict on Thursday in the murder trial of four men with ties to Russia, who are accused of mass murder in connection with the downing of Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17. The flight was shot down over eastern Ukraine on July 17, 2014, resulting in the death of all 298 passengers and crew.

A former senior Syrian intelligence officer, Anwar Raslan, was sentenced to life in prison in Germany for crimes against humanity, including 4,000 counts of torture and the murder of 27 detainees. This landmark trial marks the first European conviction of a high-ranking Syrian regime official. The pursuit of justice continues as victims and lawyers seek to track down former torturers who have fled to Europe since 2013.

The four parties involved in forming the next Dutch coalition in The Hague are expected to present their plans, following the elections that took place on March 17. Speculations suggest the announcement may include free childcare, increased military funding, and additional housing funds. An agreement is anticipated to be finalized and shared with the coalition parties, with a parliamentary debate scheduled if consensus is not reached. Prime Minister Mark Rutte is likely to be appointed mandator to form a new cabinet, with the full team's formal presentation expected in January.

In Lebanon's Bekaa Valley, Christian villages near the Syrian border, including Ras Baalbek, are arming themselves against potential attacks from ISIL and Jabhat Al Nusra militants. Rifaat Nasrallah, leading a group of Christian fighters, describes the situation as living on a volcano. The militants, driven out of Arsal by the Lebanese army, have engaged in skirmishes and taken Lebanese security personnel hostage. The Christian militia, which began with around 60 men, has grown in number and is now training young men. Nasrallah, receiving support from Hizbollah, expresses concern over the possibility of a surprise attack by the militants. In Qaa, another Christian village, similar patrols and security measures are in place, with changes to Christmas celebrations due to safety concerns.

Kremlin officials publicly displayed a benign attitude towards President Donald Trump's visit to Saudi Arabia, which included a speech at an Arab Islamic American Summit criticizing Iran, meetings with regional leaders, and a $110 billion arms deal with Saudi Arabia. Despite the public stance, the Russian Security Council discussed the implications of Trump's visit while he was in Europe, particularly in relation to Russian Aerospace Forces' operations in Syria.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan escalated tensions with the Netherlands after Dutch authorities blocked Turkish ministers from campaigning in Rotterdam, leading to Turkey barring Dutch diplomats from landing. Erdogan made inflammatory remarks, calling the Dutch 'Nazi remnants, fascists,' and accused German Chancellor Angela Merkel of supporting terrorism. Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte is seeking to de-escalate the situation but refuses to apologize. The incident has influenced the Dutch general election, with political parties supporting the government's stance and Geert Wilders of the Freedom Party using the issue to argue against Turkish integration in the Netherlands.

Geert Wilders, leader of the Freedom Party (PVV), protested outside the Turkish Embassy in The Hague, calling President Erdogan an 'Islamist' and 'dictator'. Wilders criticized plans for Turkish political campaigning in the Netherlands and emphasized Dutch sovereignty. Despite leading in polls for months, Wilders' support has waned, with the Liberal VVD party and the Christian Democrats (CDA) gaining ground. The CDA proposed nationalistic education reforms, and the PVV's platform includes closing mosques and banning the Quran. With Dutch elections approaching, the political landscape is fragmented, and most parties refuse to consider a coalition with the PVV. The election is viewed as indicative of the populist wave in upcoming French and German elections.

Geert Wilders, leader of the far-right Freedom Party (PVV), has initiated his election campaign in the Netherlands with a strong anti-immigrant stance. Despite leading in polls over the Conservative (VDD) party, his popularity is waning, partly due to the 'Trump effect' where voters are concerned about the implications of electing a leader with similar traits to U.S. President Donald Trump. Wilders' campaign is unconventional, relying heavily on social media and avoiding much direct media engagement, with the exception of a few interviews where he has been challenged on his positions. With the elections approaching, voters are reconsidering the impact of their votes, and Wilders hopes to gain enough seats to compel other parties to form a coalition with the PVV.

Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte, seeking a third term, published an open letter in newspapers targeting right-wing voters and criticizing those who refuse to integrate into Dutch society. The letter is seen as a response to the rising popularity of Geert Wilders' right-wing Freedom Party (PVV), which leads in the polls with a platform focused on anti-immigration and anti-Islam policies. Rutte's Liberal Party for Freedom and Democracy (VVD) is predicted to win fewer seats than PVV, but Rutte has ruled out a coalition with PVV. Meanwhile, left-wing parties, potentially led by Jesse Klaver of the Green Left (GroenLinks) party, are planning their own coalition. The general election is set for March 15.

Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras has announced a Christmas bonus for pensioners amidst protests. The European Central Bank plans to adjust its quantitative easing program and continue its bond purchases until the end of 2017. McDonald's is relocating its non-US headquarters from Luxembourg to the UK following an EU Commission probe into its tax arrangements. Additionally, there is a possibility of increased noise on US flights.

Lesbos, a Greek island, is experiencing a dual challenge with an influx of refugees and a decline in tourism, which is vital for the local economy. Despite a drop in tourist numbers, the island's residents, many of whom are descendants of refugees, continue to assist new arrivals, often at personal cost. The situation has led to a decrease in fishing activities and a significant loss of income for businesses reliant on tourism. However, the presence of volunteers and NGOs has provided some economic relief, and there are efforts to balance the needs of refugees with the revival of tourism. The island's response to the crisis has been so notable that a group of scientists started a petition to nominate the islanders for the Nobel Peace Prize.

The report follows Syrian refugees on their journey from Greece to France, highlighting their middle-class background and education, their desire to work, and their rejection of the victim label. It captures the European governments' responses to the crisis and the refugees' elation upon arrival, as well as the reporters' continued contact with them as they begin their new lives in Europe.

The report follows Syrian refugees on their journey from Greece to France, highlighting their middle-class background and education, their desire to work, and their rejection of the victim label. It captures the European governments' responses to the crisis and the refugees' elation upon arrival, as well as the reporters' continued contact with them as they begin their new lives in Europe.

Following the horrific murder of Jordanian pilot Lt Muath al-Kasaesbeh by Isis, King Abdullah of Jordan has declared a 'relentless' war against the jihadist group. Jordan executed two prisoners linked to Isis's precursor, al-Qaeda in Iraq, with more executions imminent. The country has rallied in support of the King, with public sentiment strongly against Isis. The US is reported to be increasing funding to Jordan to combat Isis. The Arab world, including Al-Azhar in Egypt, has condemned the brutality of Isis, with calls for severe punishment of its members.

Lebanon is experiencing increased unrest due to the growing number of Syrian refugees, which has led to violence on the streets. The Lebanese authorities and the UN are spending £1.3bn to support communities affected by the influx, but local patience is waning. Lebanon is implementing new restrictions on Syrian entry, and the UNHCR is concerned about the potential impact on those fleeing violence. The refugee presence has strained local infrastructure and economy, with Lebanese perceiving Syrians as threats. The UN acknowledges Lebanon's capacity issues, with poverty and unemployment rising. Efforts to resettle refugees in Western countries are seen as insufficient, and some refugees, like Abdullah, consider returning to Syria despite the challenges.

Lebanese soldiers and policemen, including Ibrahim Moghait, were kidnapped by Islamic State and al-Qaeda affiliate Jabhat al-Nusra after militants overran Arsal. Two soldiers have been beheaded, with protests erupting across Lebanon. The government is considering military options and seeking negotiations, with Qatar facilitating some releases. Families of the hostages are demanding the release of Islamists held since 2007, while experts doubt a military solution and anticipate concessions. Lebanon's justice minister's visit to protesters hints at potential agreement with militants' demands.

Israa al-Masri, a toddler, became a symbol of the humanitarian crisis in Yarmouk refugee camp, Damascus, after dying from starvation. The camp, under siege for almost a year, has left at least 18,000 Palestinian refugees without adequate food or medical aid, leading to at least 50 hunger-related deaths since October. Residents are resorting to eating animal food, and women risk sniper fire to forage for plants. UNRWA's aid efforts have been obstructed, and the Syrian government has not granted permission for aid convoys, citing security concerns. The situation in Yarmouk is a stark contrast to nearby Damascus, and the international community, including the UN and Save the Children, has expressed grave concern for the civilians, especially children, trapped in the conflict.