The week in pictures: Former prince Andrew's arrest, Iftar in Gaza and floods in France
France 24
by FRANCE 24February 22, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The week brought a series of striking images from around the world, capturing key events that have grabbed global attention. Among these, the arrest of Prince Andrew, former UK royal and太子Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, stood out as a significant moment in the news cycle. The prince was detained on suspicion of misconduct in public office, marking a dramatic turn for him personally and his family's public image. Meanwhile, the holy month of Ramadan saw a poignant scene in Gaza, where Palestinians gathered for iftar amidst the rubble of destroyed buildings, highlighting the ongoing struggles faced by residents in the region.
In France, severe floods caused widespread damage, with entire villages submerged and hundreds displaced. The images from Tonneins village showed isolated homes surrounded by floodwaters, underscoring the impact of extreme weather events on communities. Meanwhile, the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy showcased moments of triumph and skill, such as Chinese skier Zhao Zihe's impressive aerial performance. These events not only celebrated athleticism but also served as a reminder of the world's shared passion for sports.
Additionally, Artem Moroz, a Ukrainian actor injured during Russia's invasion, returned to the stage in Kyiv to perform in a play, demonstrating resilience and the power of art in times of conflict. In New York, the stock exchange celebrated a significant event tied to President Trump's tariffs, while Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg faced scrutiny as he stood trial over claims that social media is deliberately addictive. These diverse events reflect the complexity of our world, blending politics, culture, and human resilience.
The week also saw US figure skater Ilia Malinin wow audiences with his backflip at the Winter Olympics, adding to the global fascination with sports and individual achievements. From the arrest of a former prince to the struggles in Gaza and the natural disasters in France, these images collectively paint a picture of our world's current state—marked by both challenges and moments of beauty.
Understanding these events matters because they highlight critical issues shaping our planet today. The arrest of Prince Andrew underscores the ongoing fallout from royal scandals and the scrutiny faced by public figures. The scenes from Gaza during Ramadan remind us of the ongoing conflict and its impact on civilians, while the floods in France emphasize the growing threat of climate change and its devastating effects on communities.
In summary, the week's images offer a snapshot of our world—filled with both triumphs and tragedies, reminding readers of the interconnected challenges we face. These events not only capture attention but also call for reflection on broader societal issues, making them essential viewing for anyone seeking to understand global dynamics.
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Originally published on France 24 on 2/22/2026