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February 22, 2025

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Five Israeli hostages freed by Hamas in Gaza

by Alexandra Hartman Editor-in-Chief
written by Alexandra Hartman Editor-in-Chief

Six Hostages Released From Hamas Custody in Latest Ceasefire Exchange

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In a notable development in the ongoing ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, six hostages have been released from captivity in Gaza. This handover marks a critical step in the fragile truce agreement that came into effect on January 19th.

The six individuals,identified as Tal Shoham (40),Averu Mengistu (39),Eliya Cohen (27),Omer Shem Tov (22),Omer Wenkert (23),and Hisham Al-Sayed,were paraded on stage in various locations in Gaza before being handed over to officials from the international Committee of the Red Cross.

“Last night, our Shiri was returned home,” the family of Shiri Bibas said in a statement, confirming the return of her remains following a devastating misidentification earlier. israel’s Institute of Forensic Medicine positively identified the body.

The bibas family has endured immense pain since the October 7th attack, during which Shiri was kidnapped alongside her two young sons and husband. The joint return of Shiri’s remains and the release of her husband, Yarden, on February 1st, offers a small measure of solace amidst deep grief.

The israeli military confirmed the death of Shiri’s two young sons, Kfir (10 months) and Ariel (4 years old), stating that forensic analyses revealed they were deliberately killed by their captors.

Mr. Mengistu’s family, who have endured over a decade of anguish during his captivity, expressed their immense relief.”Our family has endured 10 years and five months of unimaginable suffering,” they said in a statement, eagerly anticipating the return of their beloved son, brother, and uncle.

In return for the release of these hostages, Israel is expected to release 602 Palestinian prisoners and detainees held in its jails. This latest stage of prisoner exchange marks a crucial step in upholding the terms of the ceasefire agreement.

While the ceasefire has brought a welcome respite from the intense fighting, the path to a lasting resolution remains fraught with challenges. Hamas seeks to demonstrate its continued authority in Gaza despite significant losses during the conflict.

israel, on the other hand, faces immense pressure to ensure the safe return of all remaining hostages.

Both sides have expressed their intention to commence negotiations for a second stage of the ceasefire, which aims to address the release of the remaining hostages and the potential withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza.

Though,a multitude of complex issues,including the future governance of Gaza and the broader regional security landscape,threaten to hinder progress towards a lasting peace.

The situation remains highly volatile, demanding continuous diplomatic efforts and a unwavering commitment to dialog from all parties involved.

How does the UN plan to ensure the terms of the ceasefire are upheld, particularly regarding the exchange of prisoners?

Exclusive Interview: UN Special Envoy Discusses latest Ceasefire Developments and Future Prospects

Archyde News: Welcome, Ambassador Laura Martinez, UN Special Envoy for the Israel-Palestine Conflict. Thank you for taking the time to discuss the recent developments in the ceasefire and the release of hostages.

Ambassador martinez: Thank you for having me. its crucial we keep the conversation going on this critical issue.

Archyde News: Six hostages have been released from Hamas custody, marking a significant step in the ceasefire agreement.Can you share your thoughts on this growth?

Ambassador Martinez: Indeed, it’s a notable achievement. The release of these individuals, especially after such a long period of captivity in some cases, brings immense relief to their families and communities. It’s a testament to the power of diplomatic efforts and the commitment of all parties involved in upholding the terms of the ceasefire.

Archyde News: The return of Shiri Bibas’ remains and her husband, Yarden, must have been particularly emotional. how have the families been coping, and what support is being offered to them?

ambassador Martinez: The Bibas family has gone through unimaginable pain. The return of Shiri’s remains and her husband, while offering some measure of closure, also serves as a stark reminder of their loss. The UN, along with other international organizations, is providing grief counseling and other forms of support to help them cope with their tragic situation. We also continue to push for justice and accountability for the atrocities committed against their sons.

Archyde News: The prisoner exchange is a crucial aspect of this ceasefire. Can you tell us more about the process and the challenges faced in negotiating it?

Ambassador Martinez: The prisoner exchange is indeed a complex process, involving multiple stakeholders and delicate negotiations. Each case is unique, with its own set of challenges and sensitivities. The UN has been facilitating these discussions, ensuring that the rights and welfare of all parties, especially the hostages, are protected. We’re committed to seeing this through to ensure a fair and just outcome for everyone involved.

Archyde News: Looking ahead, what are the key challenges in maintaining this ceasefire and moving towards a lasting peace?

Ambassador martinez: The path to peace is never easy. We’re facing numerous challenges, including the future governance of Gaza, the withdrawal of Israeli troops, and the broader regional security landscape. But the key challenge is maintaining the momentum for dialog and diplomacy.Both sides must remain committed to the negotiating table,even when progress seems slow or uncertain.

Archyde News: what message would you like to convey to our readers regarding the importance of this ceasefire and the need for continued support and engagement?

ambassador Martinez: I would like to emphasize that this ceasefire is a fragile yet significant step towards peace.It’s crucial that we, as an international community, continue to support and engage in the process.Every voice matters, and every effort, no matter how small, can contribute to a lasting resolution. Let’s not lose sight of the families affected,and let’s work together to ensure that their pain is not in vain.

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Economy

Private-hire cars bought before Feb 19 can be sold or rented out at lower rates: Chee Hong Tat

by Alexandra Hartman Editor-in-Chief
written by Alexandra Hartman Editor-in-Chief

New Rules for Ride-Hailing Cars in Singapore

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SINGAPORE – Companies that purchased cars for ride-hailing services before February 19, 2025, can resell them to individuals as private cars. This new rule, implemented by the Singaporean government, applies only to cars that are new or newly registered from February 19, 2025.

“All these cars that (the companies) have already bought, assuming that they do have some excess supply, can be sold; or they can find ways to rent them out, such as lowering the rental for drivers,” said Transport Minister Chee Hong Tat on February 22, 2025, on the sidelines of the official opening of the Dyslexia Association of Singapore’s (DAS) Toa Payoh Learning Center.

This new three-year lock-in period aims to prevent businesses from prematurely removing cars from the private-hire market and selling them as used cars. This practice, which was previously unregulated, often resulted in a shortage of cars providing point-to-point transport services.

Before this rule was introduced, companies could freely convert their private-hire cars (PHCs) into passenger cars and sell them in the used car market. Between January 2022 and August 2024, over 1,500 chauffeured PHCs where converted out of the scheme each year within their first three years of registration.

“We don’t wont (the companies) to flip the vehicle in and out of the PHC market.We want it to remain (as one) for at least three years before it is indeed sold as a non-PHC vehicle. This then provides greater stability within the PHC market, which I think will be good for drivers and for commuters,” explained mr. Chee, who is also the Second Minister for Finance.

The Impact on Drivers and Commuters

The new regulation is expected to have a positive impact on both ride-hailing drivers and commuters.

  • For Drivers: A more stable market, with fewer cars suddenly leaving the market, could lead to higher demand for drivers and possibly increased earnings.
  • For Commuters: A more consistent supply of ride-hailing vehicles should translate into shorter wait times and more reliable transportation.

Beyond Ride-Hailing: Supporting Inclusive Education

The official opening of the Dyslexia Association of Singapore’s (DAS) Toa Payoh Learning Centre provided a platform to highlight another critical issue in Singapore: inclusive education.

Mr. Chee emphasized the meaning of creating a more inclusive education landscape, underscoring the importance of providing support to all learners, irrespective of their learning differences. DAS currently supports over 3,000 children at various educational levels with its bursary fund, which helps alleviate the financial burden on lower-income families.

Looking ahead: The Next General Election

The conversation also touched on the upcoming general election. While no specific details were revealed about candidate selection for Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC, Mr. Chee reassured residents that the PAP team has been consistently engaging with them as 2020 and is prepared for the upcoming elections.

“Join ST’s WhatsApp Channel and get the latest news and must-reads.

What are the specific details of the three-year lock-in period for ride-hailing cars, and how will it be enforced?

New rules for Ride-Hailing Cars in singapore: An Interview with transport Minister Chee Hong Tat

Singapore’s Transport Minister Chee Hong Tat recently announced new rules for ride-hailing cars, aiming to provide greater stability to the market and improve transport services. We interviewed Minister Chee to discuss these changes and their expected impacts.

Minister Chee, could you walk us through the new regulations for ride-hailing cars?

Certainly. The new rules introduce a three-year lock-in period for cars purchased by ride-hailing companies. This means companies cannot resell or convert these cars into private cars within the first three years of registration. This is to prevent businesses from prematurely removing cars from the private-hire market and selling them as used cars.

What prompted these changes, and how do you expect them to benefit drivers and commuters?

The previous lack of regulations led to a significant number of ride-hailing cars being converted out of the market within their first three years. This caused shortages and affected drivers’ earnings and commuters’ reliability. The new rules aim to stabilize the market, perhaps leading to higher demand for drivers, increased earnings, and more consistent vehicle supply for commuters.

Looking ahead,how do you envision these changes shaping the ride-hailing industry in Singapore?

Our goal is a more lasting and stable ride-hailing market where drivers and commuters both benefit. We believe these rules will contribute to that by encouraging companies to focus on long-term growth strategies rather than short-term profit maximization through car flipping.

In closing,we’d like to discuss the importance of inclusive education,as highlighted during your visit to the Dyslexia Association of Singapore. How do you see education evolving in Singapore?

Inclusive education is indeed critical. We must ensure that every child, regardless of their learning differences, has access to the support they need.Moving forward,we hope to create a more inclusive education landscape where diverse learning needs are understood and catered to. This will not onyl benefit the individual students but also foster a more accepting and adaptable society as a whole.

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Entertainment

16 WWE Stars Released – WrestleTalk

by Alexandra Hartman Editor-in-Chief
written by Alexandra Hartman Editor-in-Chief

16 WWE Stars Who Recently Departed The Company

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There have been 16 notable WWE stars that have departed the company recently, wiht the newest of those emerging today.This list details those stars, their WWE tenures, and any details on their departures. We wish them all the best in whatever they go on to do next.

16. Indi Hartwell

16 WWE Stars Released – WrestleTalk

News of Indi Hartwell’s WWE release emerged in November 2024, with her being subject to a 90-day non-compete clause after that point. Hartwell was with WWE from 2019, and over the course of the next five years, she achieved a meaningful standing within the NXT brand, becoming an NXT Women’s Tag team Champion alongside Candice LeRae, and eventually also capturing the NXT Women’s Championship.

Hartwell has already released a new entrance theme made by Downstait, signaling her intention to pursue a accomplished wrestling career outside of WWE. She has been announced for a match on March 9 for renegades of wrestling in her hometown of Melbourne, Australia.

Stay tuned for more updates on the journeys of these departing WWE stars

What advice do you have for aspiring wrestlers?

Exclusive Interview: Indi Hartwell Reflects on WWE Tenure and Plans Post-NXT

in an industry where change is constant, some names stand out for their resilience and growth. Indi Hartwell, NXT Women’s Champion and Tag Team Champion, is one such star. After spending five years with WWE, Indi has recently parted ways with the company. We caught up with her to discuss her journey,what’s next,and her thoughts on the wrestling world.

From the Black and Gold Brand to the WWE Universe

Indi, you joined WWE in 2019 and quickly made a name for yourself in NXT.Looking back, what would you say was the most challenging and rewarding aspect of your time there?

“The most challenging part was definitely the constant grind. I was in NXT virtually for my entire WWE tenure, and the fixtures back-to-back can get tiresome. But in other ways,it pushed me to improve every single day. The rewards, of course, were tremendous. Winning the Women’s Tag Team Championships with candice, and later the Women’s Championship, were highlights I won’t soon forget.”

Signaling a New Era Outside WWE

Your debut single, “Girl on Fire,” created by Downstait, has already dropped. How does it feel to have new music representing you as you step into this new chapter?

“Honestly, it’s surreal. Music has always been a passion of mine,and to have it tie into my wrestling career is unbelievable. ‘Girl on Fire’ is all about empowerment and resilience, which I think resonates with my journey and what lies ahead.”

Renegades of Wrestling Awaits

You’re set to compete in Melbourne for Renegades of Wrestling on march 9. How does it feel to be returning to your hometown for this bout?

“It’s going to be an emotional moment, stepping into that ring in Melbourne. I haven’t wrestled in Australia in years, and to be doing it in front of my hometown crowd is truly special. I can’t wait to show them what Indi Hartwell is made of.”

Thoughts on the current State of Women’s Wrestling

As you look around the wrestling world today, who are some women you’re excited to see making waves, and what advice do you have for aspiring wrestlers?

“I think it’s an incredibly exciting time for women’s wrestling. I’m loving what I’m seeing from the likes of Deonna purrazzo, Dakota Kai, and manny others. My advice? Train hard, love what you do, and always remember that your journey is unique to you.It’s okay to take risks and blaze your own trail.”

Indi, thank you for joining us today. We can’t wait to see what the future holds for you both in the ring and beyond.

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Sport

Trojans Hoping to Celebrate Final Home Game of the Season

by Alexandra Hartman Editor-in-Chief
written by Alexandra Hartman Editor-in-Chief

Trojan Basketball Celebrates Homecoming & Senior Day

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it’s going to be a festive day at the Jack Stephens Center on Saturday as the University of Arkansas at Little Rock Trojans basketball teams host Western Illinois for a doubleheader. The day will be filled with homecoming and senior day activities during both games.

Game Schedule & Festivities

The women’s game tips off at 1 p.m., followed by the men’s game approximately 30 minutes after the conclusion of the women’s contest.

  • Women’s Game: 1 p.m. vs. Western Illinois
  • Women’s Senior Recognition: Promptly following the women’s game
  • Men’s Game: Approximately 30 minutes following the women’s game vs. Western Illinois.
  • Men’s Senior Recognition: 10-minute mark of the men’s pregame

The Greek Night festivities, originally scheduled for Thursday, have been moved to Saturday and will take place on the concourse. Distinguished alumni will be honored at halftime of the women’s game, and the homecoming coronation is slated for halftime of the men’s game.

Senior Day Honors

Saturday’s games will mark the final home appearances for two outstanding Trojan seniors: Jordan Jefferson and Mwani Wilkinson.

“Jordan Jefferson has been at Little Rock for four years and Mwani Wilkinson just one. But both players have made their marks as their careers wind down and are honored on Saturday,” stated the athletic department.

Jefferson, who played his 100th game for the Trojans on Thursday night, has started 57 games and averages 8.9 points per game and 2.1 rebounds per game despite battling a back injury this season.

Wilkinson,a transfer from LSU,has emerged as a star in his lone season at Little Rock,averaging 13.2 points and 7 rebounds per game. he’s also contributing 1.4 blocks and 1.8 steals per game.

Trojans Look to Extend Dominance over Leathernecks

Little Rock holds a commanding 5-1 record in the all-time series against Western Illinois and has won five consecutive meetings.The Trojans remain undefeated against the Leathernecks since joining the Ohio Valley conference two seasons ago.

Scouting Western Illinois

The leathernecks (10-18, 4-13) have struggled this season, losing five games in a row after a loss to Little Rock last month. They have since rebounded with two wins in their last three games, defeating Southern Indiana and Morehead State last week.

Despite their recent success, Western Illinois dropped a close contest to Southeast Missouri State on Thursday night.

marko Maletic leads the Leathernecks in scoring, averaging nearly 17 points per game. Ryan Myers chips in 13 points per game, and Sean Smith averages 10.2 points per game.

smith scored 16 points in the loss to Little Rock earlier this season, and Maletic added 15. Western Illinois shot just 38% from the field and 22% from the 3-point line in that contest.

Game Day Data

The men’s game can be heard on 106.7 Buz2 with Ray Tucker on the call and can be streamed on ESPN+.

Come out and cheer on the Trojans as they celebrate homecoming and honor their seniors on a day expected to be filled with excitement and tradition!

What does Coach Carter feel makes this weekend’s doubleheader special for teh UALR Trojans?

Archyde News: An Interview with Coach Jason Carter on Trojans’ Homecoming & Senior Day

Archyde’s Will Thompson catches up with Trojans’ Head Coach Jason Carter ahead of Saturday’s doubleheader against Western Illinois.

Coach Carter, thank you for taking the time to speak with us today. Let’s dive right in. What makes this weekend’s doubleheader special for the UALR Trojans?

Thanks for having me, Will. This weekend is indeed special for our Trojans. It’s our Homecoming party, and we’re honoring our fantastic seniors – Jordan Jefferson and Mwani Wilkinson – in their final home games. it’s a day filled with tradition, excitement, and a lot of well-deserved recognition.

Jordan and Mwani have certainly made their marks here at UALR. How have they contributed to the team’s success this season?

Both Jordan and Mwani have been remarkable. Jordan, even with a back injury, has been a steady presence and a team leader. He’s a true Trojan and has been a crucial part of our team’s growth over the years. Mwani, in his lone season here, has been an absolute force. He’s a double-digit scorer, averaging a solid 13.2 points per game, and provides a defensive spark with his rebounding, blocks, and steals. he’s been a great addition and has fit right in with our Trojan family.

Mwani’s impact as a transfer has been tremendous. What’s your secret to integrating new players so seamlessly into the team?

Well, Will, it starts with the culture we’ve built here. We emphasize teamwork, dedication, and a growth mindset. When we bring in new players, we make sure they understand our systems, our goals, and our commitment to each other. Mwani, especially, has been a great fit because he bought into our culture from day one. Plus, his talent and work ethic have been a huge addition to our team.

Speaking of culture, this game marks the final home appearance for Jordan and Mwani. How does the team plan to send them off?

We’re pulling out all the stops to make it a memorable day for Jordan and Mwani.There will be special recognitions during both the women’s and men’s games.We’re also encouraging all Trojan fans to come out and show their support. It’s going to be an exciting day filled with emotion, passion, and a whole lot of Trojan basketball.

Looking at the series history with Western Illinois, the Trojans hold a commanding 5-1 record. What’s the key to keeping that dominant streak alive?

First, we need to respect our opponents. Western Illinois may be struggling this season, but they’re capable of putting up a fight.We’ve seen it in our previous matchup this season. We need to play our game, stick to our system, and bring the intensity. if we do that, I’m confident we’ll extend our dominance over the Leathernecks.

Coach Carter, if you could send a message to Trojan fans, alumni, and students, what would it be ahead of this weekend’s games?

I’d say, ‘Come out and support your Trojans! This is a special day for us, and we want to see the Jack Stephens Center filled with Trojan blue. Let’s make some noise,create an electric atmosphere,and send our seniors off in style.Together, we can make this Homecoming and Senior Day one to remember!’

Thank you, Coach Carter. We appreciate your time and wish the Trojans the best of luck this weekend!

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