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The article discusses Synthesia, a British generative-AI firm valued at $2 billion, and its significance to London. London's mayor, Sir Sadiq Khan, has praised the company as a 'London success story.' The article highlights the company's innovative technology, which turns written prompts into slick videos with digital avatars, and questions whether Britain can retain such a valuable asset. The piece is set against the backdrop of Britain's efforts to develop its digital identity and the challenges it faces in doing so.

The UK government has introduced new restrictions on junk food marketing to combat rising obesity rates. The regulations aim to limit the promotion of unhealthy foods, particularly through social media and online advertising. The article discusses the potential effectiveness of these measures and their implications for the food industry.

The article argues that Donald Trump's proposed solution to high drug prices in the US is misguided. While both Republicans and Democrats agree that drug prices are too high, the author contends that Trump's cure is worse than the disease. The article highlights that America's list prices for branded drugs are significantly higher than those in other rich countries, but suggests that the problem lies elsewhere than with 'greedy pharma firms'. The author criticizes Trump's approach and implies that it may have negative consequences, not just for the pharmaceutical industry but also for America's allies.

The article discusses the security risks associated with Large Language Models (LLMs), a type of artificial intelligence. LLMs have an inherent security problem as they cannot separate code from data, making them vulnerable to prompt injection attacks. These attacks can have embarrassing or damaging consequences. The article argues that coders need to adopt a more safety-conscious approach, similar to civil engineers, when building AI systems. It highlights the need for designing systems with safety and security in mind from the outset. The article is part of a larger discussion on the challenges and risks associated with AI development.

The article discusses the Curraghinalt gold mine in County Tyrone, Northern Ireland, which is potentially worth over $20 billion. Despite its lucrative prospects, the mine's development is hindered by government bureaucracy, leaving its future uncertain. The article highlights Britain's barriers to development, using the Curraghinalt mine as a case study. It touches on the complexities of extracting minerals and the challenges posed by regulatory hurdles.

The new term of the US Supreme Court (SCOTUS) is set to significantly impact America's constitution, particularly in relation to the balance of power among the government's branches. The article discusses the concept of 'checks and balances,' which is not explicitly mentioned in the US Constitution but is crucial to understanding how the country is governed. The author questions the level of ambition the justices have in checking an overmighty president, highlighting the importance of this role in maintaining the constitutional balance. The article touches upon the unwritten constitution that resides in beliefs, behavior, and legal precedents, alongside the written constitution. It emphasizes the need for the Supreme Court to ensure that ambition is counteracted by ambition among the branches of government.

The article praises the White House's 20-point plan for 'eternal peace' in Gaza, presented by President Donald Trump and Israel's Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu on September 29th, 2025. Despite initial skepticism due to the ongoing conflict since 2023, the plan is considered a significant step forward as it potentially marks a change in positions by America, Israel, and possibly Hamas. The article argues that this proposal sets important parameters for ending the crisis and deserves recognition rather than dismissal.

The article 'Unleash the robotaxi revolution' discusses the rapid growth of robotaxi services in cities like San Francisco and Shenzhen, driven by companies such as Waymo and Baidu. It highlights that safety rules are hindering the progress of this technology in the West. The article argues that the future of transportation is already being shaped by self-driving taxis, with significant increases in the number of trips conducted by these companies. It emphasizes the need to adapt regulatory frameworks to accommodate this emerging technology.

The article discusses how Vladimir Putin is waging a 'grey-zone campaign' against NATO, using tactics such as drones, cyber-attacks, and propaganda to unsettle Europe without provoking outright conflict. The author argues that NATO must resist Russia's efforts to corrode it from within and notes that the West is no longer at peace, but not yet at war. The article highlights the need for the West to maintain its unity in the face of Russia's aggressive actions.

The article discusses Russia's increasing use of micro-aggressions against Europe, particularly in the context of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. It highlights a recent incident where drones were spotted over Germany's Schleswig-Holstein state, surveying critical infrastructure. The article suggests that Russia is attempting to undermine support for Ukraine and expose America's ambivalence towards the conflict. The author analyzes the implications of Russia's actions and their potential impact on European security and the transatlantic relationship.

Beijing has appointed Sun Shangwu, the deputy editor-in-chief of China Daily, as the deputy director of its liaison office in Hong Kong, to improve the central government's narratives for the international audience. Sun will take charge of publicity work and is expected to work with all news platforms to 'tell the Hong Kong story well'. The appointment is seen as a move to enhance the liaison office's presence in the English media world and engage better with the English-speaking world. Sun is filling a position left vacant for over a year after his predecessor, Lu Xinning, was transferred to serve as a member of the Chinese Communist Party Standing Committee of Guangxi.

The article discusses the tributes paid to renowned British conservationist Jane Goodall on Chinese social media following her death at the age of 91. Goodall was a frequent visitor to China, having visited 17 times, and her story was featured in Chinese secondary school textbooks. Her last visit to China was in 2024, when she gave an interview to state broadcaster CCTV. The article highlights Goodall's contributions to wildlife conservation and environmental protection, particularly her groundbreaking research on chimpanzee behavior in Tanzania. Many Chinese social media users recalled learning about Goodall in their English and biology classes and paid tribute to her legacy, describing her as a 'great woman' who loved and protected animals.

A Chinese company, Highlander, is testing underwater data centres off the coast of Shanghai to reduce the carbon footprint of AI by utilizing ocean currents for cooling, potentially saving 90% of energy consumption. This project, one of the world's first commercial underwater data centre services, faces questions over its ecological impact and commercial viability.

Tsinghua University has become the top-ranked institution in computer science globally, according to multiple major rankings. This marks a significant shift in a field previously dominated by US universities. Tsinghua leads in rankings such as US News Best Global Universities and CSRankings, which measures faculty publications in top-tier conferences. Other Chinese universities, including Shanghai Jiao Tong, Zhejiang, and Peking, also feature in the top 5. The rise of Asian universities reflects growing strength in the region, with the top 10 now evenly split between Asian and US institutions. The US is acknowledged as the birthplace of modern computer science, with universities like MIT and Stanford setting standards and producing generations of tech industry leaders. CSRankings is a metrics-based, transparent system developed by Emery Berger, a computer science professor at the University of Massachusetts Amherst.

A recent study found that climate change significantly exacerbated the damage caused by Super Typhoon Ragasa, which struck southern China last month. Researchers from Imperial College London estimated that global warming was responsible for more than a third of the direct damage to homes and property. The study also found that climate change made Ragasa more powerful when it made landfall in Guangdong province, boosting its winds by 7% and rainfall by 12%. The researchers warned that as the planet continues to warm, tropical cyclones are expected to become increasingly destructive. The study's findings highlight the severe impact of climate change on extreme weather events and the need for continued research and action to mitigate its effects.

Crowds gathered at Hong Kong's Victoria Harbour to bid farewell to two People's Liberation Army (PLA) naval ships, the training vessel Qi Jiguang and amphibious assault ship Yimeng Shan, as they departed after a four-day port call as part of the National Day celebrations. Military enthusiasts, including some from mainland China, arrived early to secure a good viewing spot. The ships' departure was met with excitement, cheers, and waves from the onlookers as they passed through the harbour.

The Formula One night race in Singapore has been a significant event for the city-state, attracting international visitors and generating substantial economic returns. The event has been held for 16 years and has become one of Singapore's flagship international events. While the cost of hosting the race is high, around S$100 million to S$140 million annually, government officials and analysts believe it continues to deliver substantial returns in terms of tourism receipts, global branding, and local business opportunities. However, some small businesses and residents are questioning whether the benefits are evenly spread or as impactful as they once were.

The People's Liberation Army (PLA) has expanded its Zhurihe training base in Inner Mongolia, China, with new structures resembling key Taiwanese government buildings, including a mock Judicial Yuan and presidential office. Satellite images obtained by a Japanese think tank show that the base has grown nearly threefold since 2020, indicating more systematic training for a potential conflict across the Taiwan Strait. The PLA has been conducting combat-oriented training at the base, including simulations of confrontations with enemy forces guarding the presidential palace.

China has completed the assembly of the world's largest single-unit floating offshore wind power system, a 16-megawatt turbine with a rotor diameter of 252 meters, in Beihai, Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region. The turbine is expected to generate 44.7 million kilowatt-hours of electricity annually, enough to power over 4,000 average American homes. The project is part of China's efforts to expand its marine economy and clean energy industry, with President Xi Jinping emphasizing the importance of offshore wind energy in advancing the country's 'high-quality development' of its marine economy. The turbine features a semi-submersible platform and China's first dynamic ballast system, with all key parts produced domestically. The next step involves towing the system offshore for installation, testing, and connection to the grid before commercial operation.

The Spanish tourist resort of Benidorm is cracking down on shops displaying lewd or 'offensive' items in their windows, fearing it tarnishes the area's image and upsets passers-by. The move is aimed at ensuring minors and vulnerable communities are not exposed to offensive messages. Local laws prohibit shop windows from showing products that might hurt people's moral sensitivity. Shop owners will be reminded of the regulation and asked to remove offending items, with potential fines of up to €3,000 for non-compliance. The crackdown is part of a broader effort to maintain the city's image and address concerns about over-tourism.

A scaffolding collapse inside an Ethiopian Orthodox Christian church in Arerti during a religious festival resulted in the deaths of 36 people, with around 200 injured. The incident occurred as worshippers climbed onto the makeshift scaffolding to view a newly painted mural on the church ceiling. Mass funerals were held for the victims, and the government expressed condolences while emphasizing the need for prioritizing safety in construction projects. The tragedy highlights the poor enforcement of health and safety regulations in Ethiopia.

A luxury restaurant in Stockholm, Coco & Carmen, has been temporarily closed due to a suspected listeria outbreak that has caused four people to be diagnosed with sepsis. At least 15 people have been treated or are under observation in hospital after dining at the restaurant, with 85 people complaining of food poisoning symptoms. The regional health authority has widened its infection tracing to include people who dined at the restaurant between 23 and 27 September. Listeria poses a significant risk to pregnant women, older people, and those with weakened immune systems. The restaurant has cooperated with the authorities and hopes to reopen on 7 October.

Thousands of people in Madagascar have protested across the country for over a week, demanding President Andry Rajoelina's resignation over chronic power and water shortages, corruption, and poor living conditions. The protests, led by a Gen Z online movement, have resulted in 22 deaths and over 100 injuries according to the UN. Rajoelina sacked his government but the move failed to placate the protesters. The demonstrations have spread to eight cities, with protesters calling for broader political change and the president's accountability.

Protests erupted across Morocco as Gen Z demonstrators rallied against the government's decision to build football stadiums for the 2030 Fifa World Cup instead of improving public services and addressing the economic crisis. At least two people were killed in Lqliaa near Agadir after police opened fire on protesters attempting to storm a police station. The protests, organized through social media by the GenZ 212 movement, have spread to major cities including Rabat, Casablanca, Tangier, and Marrakesh, with reports of violence, injuries, and property damage. The government has detained over 409 people and reported injuries to more than 260 police officers and 20 protesters.

Spencer Elden, the baby featured on Nirvana's 1991 album Nevermind, has lost a lawsuit against the band and photographer Kirk Weddle, alleging distribution of child pornography. US District Judge Fernando Olguin ruled that the album cover, featuring Elden swimming naked underwater, did not constitute child pornography. The judge cited the presence of Elden's parents at the photo shoot, the photographer's friendship with the family, and Elden's previous financial benefits from being featured on the album cover. Elden's legal team plans to appeal, arguing that the entertainment industry prioritizes profits over childhood privacy and dignity.

Rap mogul Sean 'Diddy' Combs has written a letter to the judge overseeing his criminal trial, asking for leniency ahead of his sentencing on Friday. Combs was found guilty of two prostitution charges in July and faces up to 20 years in prison. In his letter, he apologizes for his past behavior, blaming it on drug addiction, and claims to be reformed after spending 13 months in jail. Prosecutors are seeking an 11-year sentence, while Combs' lawyers are asking for his release later this month. Combs' accusers, including his ex-girlfriend Cassie Ventura, have also written to the judge, describing the harm he caused and their fears of retribution if he is freed.

Robert Mugabe Jr, the 33-year-old son of Zimbabwe's former President Robert Mugabe, appeared in court in Harare charged with drug possession. He was arrested on Wednesday morning after driving the wrong way down a one-way street, and police allegedly found two small sachets of cannabis in a black sling bag he was wearing. Mugabe's lawyer plans to deny the charges, contesting the police's factual claims. The court remanded Mugabe in custody pending a bail ruling on Friday. The incident is not Mugabe Jr's first brush with the law, having been arrested in 2023 over allegations of damaging property and spitting on a police officer. The police also arrested five people allegedly linked to Mugabe Jr in a 'syndicate', finding 25 sachets of marijuana and six ecstasy pills.

The internet in Afghanistan was restored on Wednesday, two days after the Taliban government blocked web access nationally without explanation. The shutdown lasted over 48 hours, paralyzing the country as digital communications were disabled, flights halted, and banking services were left inaccessible. The Taliban had previously restricted high-speed internet access in some provinces to 'prevent immoral activities.' The United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan had called for the immediate restoration of the internet, citing the risk of harm to the Afghan people and the country's economic stability. The Taliban's actions have been widely criticized, and the group's legitimacy as Afghanistan's government has not been recognized by most Western nations since they took control in 2021.

A scaffolding collapse at a church in Arerti, Ethiopia, during an annual Virgin Mary festival resulted in at least 36 deaths and over 200 injuries. The incident occurred on Wednesday at around 7:45 a.m. local time. The town is located about 40 miles east of the capital Addis Ababa. District police chief Ahmed Gebeyehu reported that the death toll could rise. Some people remained trapped under the rubble, and the more seriously injured were taken to hospitals in the capital. The Ethiopian government expressed condolences and emphasized the need for prioritizing safety. The incident highlights the lack of health and safety regulations in Ethiopia, where construction accidents are common.

Renowned conservationist Jane Goodall has died at 91. Goodall revolutionized the world's understanding of chimpanzees through her groundbreaking research in Tanzania in the 1960s. She discovered that chimpanzees used and made tools, redefining the scientific understanding of the relationship between humans and animals. Goodall went on to establish the Jane Goodall Institute, which continues to protect chimpanzees and their habitats. She spent the last four decades of her life speaking about climate change and conservation. Goodall received numerous honors, including the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

Pope Leo XIV has criticized individuals who claim to be pro-life but support the death penalty or inhumane treatment of immigrants, stating that they are 'not really pro-life.' The Pope's comments were made in a new biography and addressed the controversy surrounding Chicago Cardinal Blase Cupich's decision to award Illinois Sen. Dick Durbin a lifetime achievement award for his work with immigrants, despite Durbin's support for abortion rights. The White House disputed the Pope's concerns about immigrant treatment, while Cupich defended his decision and lamented the polarization in the US Catholic community.

A new study has found that the ocean hidden beneath the icy surface of Saturn's moon Enceladus contains complex organic molecules, providing further evidence that the moon could support life. The discovery was made by analyzing data collected by the Cassini space probe during its 2004-2017 trip to Saturn. Scientists believe that Enceladus's ocean has many of the elements necessary for life, including salt, methane, and phosphorus. While the findings suggest that Enceladus is habitable, they do not confirm the presence of life. The study's results have significant implications for the search for extraterrestrial life and highlight the need for further research.

President Trump has signed an executive order stating that any armed attack against Qatar will be considered a threat to US peace and security. The order came after Israel bombed Qatar's capital, Doha, on September 9, targeting Hamas leaders. Qatar hosts a major US military base and is considered a Major Non-NATO Ally. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu apologized for the strike and assured that Israel will not conduct such an attack again. The executive order demonstrates the US commitment to defending Qatar's interests.

A British High Court judge has ordered PPE Medpro, a company linked to underwear tycoon Michelle Mone and her husband Doug Barrowman, to repay the UK government $163 million for breaching a contract to supply 25 million surgical gowns during the COVID-19 pandemic. The gowns were deemed 'not sterile' and 'could not be used as sterile gowns.' The contract was awarded by the former Conservative administration led by Boris Johnson. The new Labour government sued PPE Medpro, and Treasury chief Rachel Reeves welcomed the judgment, stating that the recouped money will fund schools, the National Health Service, and communities. Mone and Barrowman denied wrongdoing and were furious at the judgment.

In Woodbridge, England, a team of 180 volunteers, including former U.S. Navy submariner David 'Mac' MacDonald, are rebuilding a 1,400-year-old Anglo-Saxon longship discovered at Sutton Hoo. The project aims to create a historically accurate replica using traditional tools and methods. The original ship, believed to be the final resting place of King Raedwald of East Anglia, was discovered in 1939 and is considered one of the most important archaeological finds in history. The replica is expected to be completed by 2027 and will be seaworthy.

Apple has removed several apps, including ICEBlock, from its App Store that alert users to sightings of immigration agents, amid pressure from the Trump administration. The apps allowed users to anonymously share locations of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents. The Trump administration had issued legal threats against the use of ICEBlock, with officials suggesting that reporting on the app or using it could be considered a crime. The creator of ICEBlock defended the app as a free speech-protected service, likening it to navigation apps that alert users to police presence.

The Trump administration has fired Dr. Jeanne Marrazzo, a leading scientist at the National Institutes of Health, after she filed a whistle-blower complaint against the administration. Dr. Marrazzo had objected to administration actions that she said endangered research subjects, defied court orders, and undermined vaccine research. The firing is seen as retaliatory by Dr. Marrazzo's lawyer and is the latest in a series of steps taken by the Trump administration against government scientists and environmental experts who have raised concerns about administration policies. Several other senior N.I.H. officials have also been removed from their roles or have resigned. Dr. Marrazzo has urged Congress to act to protect scientific research from political interference.

The Trump administration has offered a select group of universities a 'compact' that would provide them with favorable terms for government aid in exchange for agreeing to certain conditions, such as limiting international students and protecting conservative voices. The proposal has sparked outrage among many in higher education, who see it as an attempt to exert control over universities and undermine their independence. Critics argue that the compact is a 'loyalty oath' that would reward universities that conform to the administration's agenda and punish those that do not. Some universities, such as the University of Texas, have expressed interest in signing the compact, while others have vowed to resist. The proposal is part of a broader trend in the administration's efforts to use federal funding as leverage to push its policy agenda.

The article discusses Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's recent remarks on physical standards for women in the military, where he suggested that women should be held to the 'highest male standard' and that if no women qualify for some combat jobs, 'so be it.' Two retired military officers, Captain Bobbie Scholley and Colonel Kate Wilder, who have experience in special operations and combat roles, responded to Hegseth's comments, stating that they had to work hard to meet the same standards as their male counterparts and that they were not given any special treatment. The article highlights the history of women's participation in the military and the progress made towards equality, as well as the ongoing debates around physical standards and combat roles.

Electronic Arts (EA) is being acquired by private equity firms Silver Lake Partners, Affinity Partners, and Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) in a $55 billion deal. While analysts see this as a win for investors, gamers are uncertain about the implications. EA has faced criticism for its reliance on microtransactions, loot boxes, and lack of innovation. The deal could allow EA more creative freedom, but it also saddles the company with $20 billion in debt, potentially leading to more aggressive monetization strategies. Some experts predict studio closures or IP sell-offs to manage the debt, while others believe the move could improve long-term game quality by freeing EA from public market pressures.

European stocks have had a strong year, but the region's outperformance over the U.S. has narrowed recently. Germany's stock market, which was a leader in the spring, has underperformed in recent months, while the U.K.'s FTSE 100 has gained 6.7% in the third quarter. Analysts at Morningstar Wealth and Ninety One believe there is still upside for the FTSE 100, citing its undervaluation and potential for interest rate cuts. However, others, such as Alpine Macro, advise a cautious approach to European markets due to structural headwinds.

Silicon Valley's defense tech startups are attracting billions in funding as they challenge the dominance of legacy contractors. Companies like Anduril Industries and Palantir Technologies are viewed as faster, leaner, and software-first, building dual-use technologies that can be applied both commercially and in a military context. The shift is driven by the changing nature of warfare, with a focus on great power competition and the need for new technologies to address critical gaps in national security. Investors and entrepreneurs are responding to the government's direction, with venture funding for U.S.-based defense tech startups totaling $38 billion through the first half of 2025.

A massive fire broke out at the Chevron Products Company El Segundo Refinery in El Segundo, California, on October 2, 2025, causing a large explosion that was felt by residents in the Los Angeles area. The fire began around 9:30 p.m. and was accompanied by giant balls of flames and heavy smoke. Despite the severity of the blast, no evacuation orders were issued, and no injuries were immediately reported. Local authorities, including the El Segundo Police Department and the LA Fire Department, responded to the incident. California Governor Gavin Newsom was briefed on the situation and is in contact with local authorities to ensure public safety.

Ian Roberts, the former superintendent of Des Moines Public Schools in Iowa, has been taken into custody by the Justice Department on firearms and immigration charges. Roberts, who is from Guyana, was arrested on September 26 after a brief police chase when it was discovered that he was in the US illegally and had ignored a final removal order from the Department of Homeland Security. At the time of his arrest, Roberts was found with a loaded handgun, $3,000 in cash, and a fixed-blade hunting knife. It was later revealed that he was in possession of four firearms. Roberts had been leading the school district despite not having a valid work permit and resigned after his arrest. The Iowa state board revoked his superintendent license, and he is fighting the deportation order to Guyana.

A 23-year-old Alaskan climber, Balin Miller, died after falling from Yosemite National Park's El Capitan while lead rope soloing on a 2,400-foot route named Sea of Dreams. Miller was an accomplished alpinist who had gained international attention for his climbing feats, including the first solo ascent of Mount McKinley's Slovak Direct. The incident occurred on the first day of the federal government shutdown, which left national parks 'generally' open with limited operations. Miller's death is the third in Yosemite this summer, following an 18-year-old's death while free-soloing and a 29-year-old woman's death after being struck by a tree branch. Miller's family and climbing community paid tribute to him, remembering his passion for climbing and his inspiring achievements.

Prince William opens up about his family's health struggles and his plans to modernize the monarchy when he becomes king. He shared his concerns about protecting his family from media intrusion and his vision for the future of the royal family in an interview with Eugene Levy for Apple TV+ show 'The Reluctant Traveller'.

Malaysia is experiencing a resurgence in train travel, with the Keretapi Tanah Melayu (KTM) train service seeing increased ridership and new infrastructure developments. The KTM provides both intercity and local train services across Peninsular Malaysia, with various rail arteries operated by KTM, including the Komuter Utara (Northern Shuttle) service and the high-speed Electric Train Service (ETS). The train service is not only used by commuters but also by adventurers and nostalgia seekers who enjoy the scenic routes and cultural experiences. The article highlights the benefits of train travel, including reduced travel time, increased connectivity, and the opportunity to see rural areas and experience local culture.

The article discusses the remaining comfort women survivors in Asia, particularly in South Korea, China, and the Philippines, who were forced into providing sexual services to Japanese Imperial Army troops during World War II. The survivors, now mostly in their 90s, continue to demand closure and justice. The issue remains a contentious topic between South Korea and Japan, with tensions reigniting in 2019 over a 2015 agreement to resolve the comfort women issue. The article highlights the efforts of South Korean civic groups to install comfort women statues around the world to advocate for justice for survivors, despite protests from Japan.

Kenyan cult leader Paul Mackenzie, while in jail, allegedly convinced his followers to participate in a deadly starvation ritual. The ritual resulted in the deaths of hundreds of people, with over 450 graves discovered in the Shakahola Forest in 2023. Mackenzie is accused of using radical and extremist teachings to control his followers and prevent them from testifying against him. Four of his followers, who are believed to have been in contact with him, are currently in custody for their role in reviving his teachings and organizing a 'holy safari to see Jesus'. Mackenzie faces charges including terrorism, child cruelty, and murder.

A cyber-attack on Asahi Group, Japan's largest beer manufacturer, has halted production at dozens of factories nationwide, potentially leading to a shortage of Asahi beer, the country's most popular beer brand. The breach has disabled the company's ordering and delivery systems, as well as its call center operations. Supermarkets and izakayas (Japanese pubs) risk running out of stock, with some retailers considering panic buying. Asahi executives are consulting with the police to determine if the company has fallen victim to ransomware, but stress that no personal or customer data has been leaked. The shortage may leave Japanese drinkers unimpressed as Asahi has a fiercely loyal following.

Japan's Asahi Group Holdings, a major beer company, is facing a potential shortage of its popular beer Asahi Super Dry due to a cyber-attack that caused a system failure. The attack forced the company to halt production at most of its 30 factories nationwide, and it is expected to run out of Super Dry in two or three days. The company has not announced when it will resume production, causing concern among wholesalers, retailers, and customers. The attack has also disrupted the company's ability to process orders and deliver products, and its customer service desks have been suspended. Asahi has reported the incident to the Tokyo metropolitan police departments and stated that no customer data has been compromised.

Papua New Guinea is considering age restrictions on social media platforms, including Meta's platforms, to regulate online content and reduce the spread of harmful content. The proposed Social Media Policy 2025 requires users aged 14 and over to have a digital ID to access platforms like Facebook, TikTok, and Instagram. Social media companies will also need to register in PNG and follow local laws. The move has sparked concerns about censorship and the potential silencing of voices, particularly among those who rely on social media to express themselves and access information. Critics argue that education and media literacy are more effective ways to make social media safer.

A massive fire broke out at the Chevron refinery in El Segundo, California, near Los Angeles, on Thursday night, October 2, 2025. Local fire departments responded to multiple reports of an explosion, and crews were able to contain the fire to one area of the facility. Officials urged residents in the area to stay indoors due to potential air quality issues. A shelter-in-place order was issued for parts of Manhattan Beach, located about two miles southwest of El Segundo. The cause of the fire and any potential injuries are unknown. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass and California Gov. Gavin Newsom have been briefed on the situation. The El Segundo refinery is the largest oil-producing facility on the West Coast, processing 276,000 barrels of crude oil daily. Flights at Los Angeles International Airport were not impacted by the fire.

Oktoberfest in Munich, Germany was closed on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, following a bomb threat linked to an explosion in northern Munich that resulted in at least one death. The explosion occurred at a residential building and was believed to be connected to a domestic dispute. The suspected perpetrator sent a letter threatening Oktoberfest, prompting police to search the fairgrounds for explosive devices and evacuate the area. The festival will remain closed until at least 5 p.m. local time.

The news article reports that a Russia-linked oil tanker, which was stopped by France, has resumed its voyage according to Vessel Tracker. However, the content of the article is not available, resulting in a 'Page not found' error.