The article discusses the political ramifications of the Israel-Hamas conflict on European left-wing parties. It highlights the internal divisions within these parties as they struggle to balance condemnation of violence with support for Israel's right to defend itself. The conflict has caused rifts within parties like France Unbowed, Britain's Labour Party, and Spain's Podemos, with leaders facing backlash for their stances on the conflict. The article also touches on how right-wing parties are using the situation to bolster their own anti-immigration and pro-Israel positions. The conflict is not only a humanitarian crisis but also a political challenge for left-wing parties, potentially affecting their performance in upcoming elections.

The article discusses the aftermath of a French police officer's fatal shooting of a teenager of Algerian and Moroccan descent in Nanterre, a Paris suburb, which led to widespread riots across France. The incident has highlighted ongoing tensions between the police and minority communities, with accusations of systemic violence and racism within the French police force. Comparisons are drawn to the George Floyd case in the United States. The article also touches on the historical context of police brutality in France, particularly against ethnic minorities, and the recent changes in police training and use-of-force laws. French President Emmanuel Macron's political challenges are mentioned, including the impact of the riots on his administration. The article concludes with a note on the subsiding of the riots and Macron's planned meetings with mayors from affected towns, though skepticism remains about any significant changes resulting from the crisis.

The article discusses the history and cultural significance of the French Riviera, particularly Cannes, which is known for its luxurious appeal to wealthy tourists and the famous Cannes Film Festival. The author references Jonathan Miles's book 'Once Upon a Time World,' which chronicles the transformation of the Riviera from a health retreat for the British elite to a playground for global elites, including Americans and Russians. The article also touches on the region's influence on artists, writers, and philosophers such as Nietzsche, F. Scott Fitzgerald, and James Baldwin. Despite the area's past glamour, the article notes current challenges such as organized crime, corruption, environmental issues, and debates over water scarcity. However, the allure of the Riviera persists, with a thriving tourist industry and the ongoing success of the Cannes Film Festival.

The European Union's Global Gateway strategy, launched to counter China's Belt and Road Initiative, is facing skepticism regarding its effectiveness and the actual newness of its funding. Global Gateway aims to mobilize 300 billion euros by 2027 to support green and digital transitions in underdeveloped countries, while also benefiting EU economies. However, critics argue that much of the funding is not new but drawn from existing EU budget allocations or member states' resources. There are also doubts about the private sector's contribution, which is expected to make up nearly half of the total funds. Despite these challenges, EU officials highlight ongoing projects, such as a fiber-optic cable in Northern Africa and a hydropower plant in Tajikistan. The EU's efforts are compared to China's Belt and Road, which has invested heavily in global infrastructure, raising concerns about creating debt dependencies in recipient countries. The EU insists its approach is based on openness and sustainability, without creating such dependencies.

Giorgia Meloni, Italy's newly appointed prime minister, faces significant challenges including an energy crisis, high public debt, and a potential recession. Her right-wing government, the most right-leaning since WWII, was formed after tough coalition talks. Meloni, known for her nationalist views and criticism of the EU, has had to reassure financial markets and allies while maintaining support from hard-liners. Key cabinet positions have been given to both moderates and ultra-conservatives, balancing the need for stability with the party's identity. The appointments of Antonio Tajani as foreign minister and Guido Crosetto as defense minister signal support for NATO and Ukraine. Giancarlo Giorgetti, known for his moderate stance, has been chosen as finance minister. The international community is cautiously optimistic, as indicated by positive market reactions and EU authorities' responses, but they remain watchful of Meloni's future actions.

France, once a vaccine-sceptical nation, has seen a dramatic increase in COVID-19 vaccination rates following the implementation of a health pass policy. This policy requires proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test for entry into various public spaces and for long-distance public transport. President Emmanuel Macron's announcement of the policy led to a surge in vaccinations, with 3.7 million bookings on Doctolib following his televised address. France's vaccination rate is now comparable to other leading countries, with 63% of the population fully vaccinated and 73% having received at least one dose. Immunologist Alain Fischer, an advisor on France's vaccination campaign, credits the health pass with increasing public awareness and vaccination rates, particularly among younger people.

Cédric Villani, a mathematician and politician, is campaigning for mayor of Paris, presenting his vision to the electorate at the Trianon theatre. His approach emphasizes the use of scientific expertise and technology to address the city's challenges, such as economic inequality, public transport strikes, high housing costs, air pollution, crime, and the cleanliness of the streets. Paris is facing significant issues, including the 'yellow vest' protests and the coronavirus outbreak. The mayoral race includes incumbent Anne Hidalgo, Rachida Dati from the right-wing, Agnès Buzyn from the ruling party, and green candidate David Belliard. Villani is positioned as a humanist scientist aiming to bring innovative solutions to Paris's governance.

The article discusses the enduring popularity of Tintin, the protagonist of Hergé's comics, and his recent emergence as a social media icon following the Brussels attacks. It delves into the historical context of the Tintin series, which was published mainly between the 1930s and 1970s, and reflects on the changing values and political messages within the stories. The author mentions how the early works, influenced by Hergé's first editor, Norbert Wallez, contained propaganda and colonial stereotypes, particularly in 'Tintin in the Land of the Soviets' and 'Tintin in the Congo'. However, the series evolved over time, with later works showing a more nuanced approach to different cultures, such as in the portrayal of the Arumbayas in Latin America. The article also touches on Hergé's critical view of American economic imperialism and his eurocentrism, as seen in his depiction of greedy tycoons and the European-led space mission in the series. Tintin's character is presented as a beacon of European humanism, reflecting the continent's virtues and flaws.