Yemen records first coronavirus case in Taiz province as virus spreads
Yemen reported the spread of novel coronavirus to a third province late on Friday, raising the number of diagnosed infections to seven with two deaths in one of the world’s most vulnerable countries.
Countries must ease lockdowns slowly, be ready for virus to jump back: WHO
Countries must lift lockdowns gradually, while still being “on the look-out” for COVID-19 and ready to restore restrictions if the virus jumps back, the World Health Organization (WHO) said on Friday.
Lebanon banks reject rescue plan as government asks IMF for help
An economic rescue plan that will form the basis of Lebanon’s talks with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) was panned by banks on Friday as one that would “further destroy confidence” in the country.
Factbox: Ireland’s plan to gradually ease coronavirus lockdown
Ireland on Friday announced a roadmap for the gradual re-opening of the economy over the coming months, easing restrictions designed to slow the spread of the coronavirus.
Alberta to launch Canada’s first contact tracing app as economy slowly reopens
The Canadian province of Alberta said on Friday it would soon launch the country’s first phone app to trace contacts of people infected with the coronavirus, as the country slowly restarts its economy.
Islamic State claims responsibility for Egypt’s Sinai attack
Islamic State on Friday claimed responsibility for an attack on an Egyptian military vehicle in North Sinai province that killed and wounded several military personnel, the group’s Amaq news agency reported.
Ireland takes small first step in coronavirus escape plan
Ireland on Friday announced the first small steps to easing restrictions to slow the spread of the coronavirus and laid out a roadmap for a gradual re-opening of the economy from May 18 if the virus can be kept under control.
Second cargo of water trucks from Mexico arrives in Venezuela under oil swap
A vessel carrying water trucks and equipment bartered by two Mexican companies arrived in Venezuela on Thursday, the second shipment under an oil-for-food agreement signed with the OPEC nation’s government, one of the firms told Reuters.
Portuguese workers leave home to celebrate coronavirus-style Labour Day
Hundreds gathered in Portugal’s capital Lisbon on Friday to celebrate Labour Day, observing strict social distancing rules in a smaller-than-usual event to show solidarity with those left jobless due to the coronavirus outbreak.
Canada bans assault-style weapons in aftermath of mass shooting
Canada is banning the sale of military-grade assault weapons in the aftermath of the country’s deadliest mass shooting two weeks ago, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said on Friday.
