UPDATE: A medieval tower in the heart of Rome partially collapsed today, trapping a worker underneath the rubble for hours and critically injuring another. Firefighters are currently engaged in a tense rescue operation, battling smoke and instability as they strive to reach the trapped individual.
Rescue teams are utilizing telescopic aerial ladders and cranes to extract debris, with reports indicating that the tower’s structure continues to give way. Authorities confirmed that during the initial collapse around noon, three workers were rescued unharmed, while a 64-year-old man was taken to the hospital in critical condition. Rome’s Prefect, Lamberto Giannini, reported “signs of life” from the trapped worker, intensifying the urgency of the operation.
As this dramatic situation unfolds, political turmoil brews in Australia. Opposition Leader Sussan Ley faces escalating pressure to abandon the Liberal Party’s commitment to a net zero emissions target. Conservative members of her leadership team, including Angus Taylor and Michaelia Cash, are advocating for a shift away from the 2050 pledge following a significant drop in polling, which now shows the Coalition’s primary vote at a record low of 24%.
In a crisis meeting this morning, Ley’s team debated the viability of retaining the net zero commitment, with only one leader, moderate Anne Ruston, supporting the pledge. As Ley battles to maintain her leadership, speculation grows regarding potential challengers, including Taylor and Andrew Hastie, who may vie for her position should the pressure continue to mount.
Meanwhile, excitement builds for the Melbourne Cup, taking place today at Flemington Racecourse despite forecasts of rain. The first race kicks off at 10:45 AM, with the iconic Cup race scheduled for 3:00 PM.
Stay tuned for live updates as rescue efforts in Rome continue and the political landscape in Australia evolves.
