The Asher Report – Term 2 Week 9
The Asher Report – Term 2 Week 9
By Asher Moratuwa, 9MKA – Rosehill College Student Newsletter
Trump Orders Bombing of Iranian Nuclear Site, Global Alarm Grows
U.S. President Donald Trump has shocked the international community after launching a surprise airstrike on an alleged Iranian nuclear facility. The airstrike, carried out by U.S. military drones, reportedly targeted a hidden underground site believed to be involved in the development of nuclear weapons. The Iranian government confirmed that several parts of the facility were damaged, although they have not yet revealed any casualties.
Trump defended the decision in a press conference, claiming the base was a “direct threat to global peace” and accusing Iran of breaking past nuclear agreements. “We warned them. They didn’t listen,” he stated. “The world is a safer place without that base.” He did not clarify whether this was part of an official U.S. government operation or an independent action tied to his influence.
Iran’s leaders, however, condemned the bombing as a violation of international law and an “act of war.” Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi warned of "serious consequences," and the country’s military has raised its alert level. The United Nations and NATO have called for calm, with several countries urging restraint and diplomacy.
Many world leaders fear this could trigger a new wave of conflict in the already unstable Middle East. Critics say the move may be politically motivated, as Trump prepares for another possible presidential campaign in 2024. With tensions rising, global attention is now focused on how Iran will respond and what this could mean for future international relations.
Matariki Celebrations Unite Aotearoa in Culture and Reflection
Aotearoa New Zealand is glowing with lights, song, and celebration as the nation comes together to mark Matariki, the Māori New Year. Matariki begins with the rising of the Pleiades star cluster (known as Matariki in te reo Māori) and has deep cultural importance, symbolising remembrance of those who have passed, gratitude for the present, and hope for the future.
This year, celebrations are bigger than ever, thanks to the public holiday introduced in 2022. Across the country, families and schools are hosting hāngi (traditional feasts), lighting candles for lost loved ones, and looking to the stars to reflect. Communities in Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch have held large events, including kapa haka performances, storytelling sessions, fireworks, and lantern parades.
Te Papa and other museums are running special Matariki exhibitions, and many iwi have opened their celebrations to the public, inviting everyone to take part in the spirit of kotahitanga (unity). In schools, tamariki are learning the meanings of each Matariki star and writing messages of hope and remembrance.
Matariki is now seen as a unique and powerful way for New Zealanders to connect with Māori culture and values. It’s a time that brings people of all backgrounds together through shared reflection, community, and celebration.
NASA Discovers Water Vapor on Distant Exoplanet, Raises Hopes for Life Beyond Earth
In a major scientific breakthrough, NASA has discovered water vapor in the atmosphere of an exoplanet over 100 light-years away, fueling excitement about the possibility of life beyond Earth. The planet, known as K2-18b, orbits a star in the "habitable zone"—the region around a star where conditions may allow liquid water to exist.
Using the James Webb Space Telescope, scientists detected key elements including hydrogen, methane, and now water vapor in the planet’s thick atmosphere. While the planet is much larger than Earth—about 8.6 times its mass—these findings suggest it could support some form of life, especially microbial life adapted to extreme environments.
Dr. Sarah Sanders, an astrobiologist at NASA, explained that while this doesn’t confirm life, it’s a strong sign that the conditions might be right. “We’re not saying there are aliens on K2-18b,” she said, “but it’s one of the best places we’ve found to keep looking.”
The discovery has thrilled scientists and space fans worldwide, many of whom are calling this the most exciting space news in years. It also opens the door to future exploration and possibly sending robotic missions to similar planets in decades to come.
As technology improves, NASA hopes to study more exoplanets for signs of life, chemistry, and climate. For now, K2-18b is at the center of attention, reminding humanity that the universe may hold more surprises than we ever imagined.
Book Report: Dearly Devoted Dexter
Author: Jeff Lindsay
Rating: 8/10
Dearly Devoted Dexter is a dark and suspenseful thriller about Dexter Morgan, a forensic expert who also secretly kills criminals. In this book, Dexter is being watched by Sergeant Doakes, stopping him from continuing his secret life. At the same time, a new killer is leaving victims horribly mutilated but alive, and Dexter is pulled into the case.
The story is creepy, clever, and full of dark humor. Dexter is both disturbing and fascinating, making the reader question right and wrong. Some parts are slow, but the mystery and character twists keep it interesting.
I rate it 8/10 for its original plot, creepy vibe, and sharp writing.
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