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The bodies of two Chinese backpackers, a 26-year-old man and a 23-year-old woman, who went missing in floodwaters in Queensland, Australia, have been recovered from their submerged car near Kilkivan. The couple was driving from Brisbane to the North Burnett region when they failed to reach their destination, prompting a large-scale search by police, the State Emergency Service, and helicopters. The recovery was made after their silver Subaru Forester was located on Wednesday afternoon. The incident has been described as an 'absolute tragedy' by Gympie mayor Glen Hartwig, especially as the tourists had come to see Australia's beauty. The region has been experiencing severe flooding, with major warnings in place across Queensland and parts of the Northern Territory, resulting in hundreds of homes being flooded and crocodiles spotted in the waters.

The BBC has investigated allegations that Jean-Luc Brunel, a French modelling agent and associate of convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, used his modelling agencies to recruit young women and girls from South America for Epstein. Two Brazilian women, Gláucia Fekete and Ana, came forward to share their experiences. Gláucia was recruited by Brunel for a modelling competition in Ecuador, where he offered to fly her to New York, but her mother intervened. Ana was recruited by a Brazilian woman and later met Epstein, who chose her for sexual purposes. Brunel arranged a US visa for Ana, sponsored by his modelling agency, Karin Models of America. The investigation found evidence that Brunel's agencies were used to facilitate Epstein's abuse, with documents showing Epstein's presence in South America during the same time as the modelling competition and Ana's encounters with him.

The article 'Even under missiles we carry on living' - how young Iranians are coping with war discusses how young people in Iran are dealing with the ongoing conflict between Iran, the US, and Israel. Despite the challenges posed by air strikes, internet blackouts, and displacement, many young Iranians are finding ways to cope and maintain a sense of normalcy. The article highlights the experiences of several young Iranians, including Sahar, Peyman, Mina, Mehran, and Shima, who share their stories of resilience and adaptation in the face of war. They discuss how they spend their days, their concerns, and their hopes for the future. The article also touches on the impact of the war on daily life, including the empty streets, disrupted sleep patterns, and the use of Starlink devices to access the internet.

A jury has ordered Kanye West to pay $140,000 to handyman Tony Saxon after a lawsuit over unpaid work and wrongful termination related to renovations at West's Malibu mansion. Saxon claimed West didn't pay him properly for his work and fired him unjustly, while West's team argued Saxon was an unlicensed contractor who 'destroyed' the property. The trial included testimony from both West and his wife Bianca Censori, with Saxon seeking $1.7 million in damages but ultimately being awarded $140,000.

The National People's Congress (NPC), China's biggest political gathering, has concluded, providing insights into the country's priorities and policies. President Xi Jinping is focusing on stabilizing the economy, promoting technological supremacy, and increasing self-reliance. The NPC approved plans to accelerate scientific breakthroughs, embed artificial intelligence across the economy, and invest in emerging fields like 6G communications and brain-computer interfaces. However, analysts question whether these measures will be enough to stimulate consumer demand and drive economic growth, as Chinese households remain hesitant to spend due to economic uncertainty. The government's efforts to boost spending, including expanding childcare and eldercare services, have been met with skepticism due to a lack of detail. Overall, the NPC signals China's priorities: economic stability, technological advancement, and self-reliance.

René Redzepi, the head chef of Noma, one of the world's highest-rated restaurants, has resigned amid allegations of abuse and a toxic work environment. Former employees accused Redzepi of verbal and physical abuse, which he later admitted to on social media, stating that he had 'shouted and pushed people, acting in ways that are unacceptable.' The allegations led to protests outside Noma's Los Angeles pop-up location, with wage-rights groups calling for Redzepi's resignation. Several corporate sponsors, including American Express, withdrew from the 16-week dinner series. Redzepi also resigned from the board of MAD, a non-profit organization he founded to help newcomers to the restaurant industry.

The new US ambassador to South Africa, Leo Brent Bozell III, has been summoned by the South African government over his 'undiplomatic' comments about an anti-apartheid chant. Bozell disagreed with a legal ruling that the chant 'Kill The Boer' does not amount to hate speech, causing offense to the government. He later issued a clarification and apologized for his remarks. The incident has added to the strained relations between the US and South Africa, which have been tense since US President Donald Trump took office.

A French UN aid worker, Karine Buisset, and two others were killed in drone strikes in Goma, a city in the Democratic Republic of Congo held by the M23 rebel group. The attack hit a residential building frequently occupied by expatriates and aid workers. The UN and French government condemned the attack, with French President Emmanuel Macron urging respect for humanitarian law. The M23 rebels and the Congolese army blamed each other for the attack. The conflict in eastern DR Congo has escalated, with the M23 controlling Goma since last year and the Congolese army launching drone strikes on M23 positions. The violence has displaced millions and drawn in regional powers, with the UN and Western nations accusing Rwanda of backing the M23.

The Hungarian election has been influenced by the ongoing war in Ukraine, with Prime Minister Viktor Orbán's government accusing Ukraine of deliberately delaying the repair of the Druzhba oil pipeline, which has caused fuel shortages in Hungary. Ukraine, in turn, accuses Hungary of spreading hate and misinformation. The dispute has escalated tensions between the two countries, with Orbán vetoing an EU loan to Ukraine and Ukraine threatening to give Orbán's 'address' to its armed forces. The election is seen as crucial for Orbán's Fidesz party, which trails behind the opposition Tisza Party in polls. The government has launched a campaign portraying Ukraine as a threat to Hungary's security, with some analysts believing Orbán is panicking, while others think he's exploiting the situation to win votes.

A bus fire in Kerzers, Switzerland, killed at least six people and left three others hospitalized with severe injuries. Police are investigating whether the blaze was intentionally set by someone on the bus. The incident occurred on a regional transport bus operated by PostBus, which is affiliated with the national postal service. Authorities have opened a criminal investigation to determine the exact circumstances of the tragedy. Swiss President Guy Parmelin expressed condolences to the families of those who died and said the circumstances are being investigated.

The Iranian women's soccer team left Australia after participating in the AFC Women's Asian Cup, with six of seven players who were granted asylum choosing to stay in the country. The team's departure was marked by emotional scenes at Sydney Airport, where Australian officials met with the players to explain their asylum options. One player who initially accepted asylum later decided to return to Iran after consulting with her teammates and coach. The Australian government has pledged to provide support to the remaining players, who will be relocated for security reasons.

NYPD Chief Aaron Edwards and Sgt. Luis Navarro were hailed as heroes for their swift response to a bomb incident during a protest outside Gracie Mansion, the residence of New York City's mayor, on March 7. Two men, Emir Balat and Ibrahim Kayumi, allegedly inspired by ISIS, lit and threw homemade bombs, prompting Edwards and Navarro to chase the suspects. Edwards recounted his actions, stating he was solely focused on catching the perpetrator, while Navarro described the incident as the most extreme situation in his 11-year NYPD career. The officers' bravery was widely praised online, with a photo of Edwards jumping over a barricade garnering nearly 20 million views and being turned into memes.

The U.S. consulate in Toronto, Canada, was fired upon early Tuesday morning, with no reported injuries or damage. Ontario Premier Doug Ford condemned the act as 'unacceptable violence and intimidation.' Royal Canadian Mounted Police Chief Superintendent Chris Leather stated that witnesses reported seeing two individuals emerge from a white Honda CRV and discharge a handgun at the consulate before fleeing. The incident is being investigated as a national security incident, with officials in touch with U.S. counterparts and the FBI. The shooting comes days after two synagogues in the greater Toronto area were hit by gunfire, prompting increased police presence. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow condemned the violence and assured that perpetrators will be brought to justice.

Oksana Masters, Team USA's most decorated Winter Paralympian, won her 11th Paralympic gold medal in the women's sprint sitting discipline in Para cross-country skiing at the Milan Cortina Paralympics in Italy. Masters overcame a difficult season that included surgery, a bone infection, and a concussion to claim her second gold medal at the Games. She finished the event 40 meters behind the leader before powering up the final incline to overtake her rival. Masters expressed feelings of relief, redemption, and happiness after the win, dedicating it to her team. With a total of 21 Paralympic medals, Masters has competed in every Paralympics since 2012, earning medals in various disciplines.

The article reports on the deaths of seven U.S. service members in the Iran war, including a Minnesota mother of two, an Iowa college student, and a Florida native. Six of the fallen service members were members of a U.S. Army Reserve unit based in Des Moines, Iowa, who were killed in a strike in Kuwait. The article provides details about each of the service members, including their backgrounds, military careers, and personal characteristics. The tone is somber and respectful, with a focus on honoring the sacrifices of the fallen service members and their families.

A 550-pound World War II bomb was successfully defused in Dresden, Germany, after causing a massive evacuation operation involving 18,000 people. The bomb was discovered during construction work on a bridge that collapsed in 2024. The defusal was carried out by bomb disposal specialists who removed the detonator and exploded the bomb. The evacuation affected major historic sites, residential buildings, and government offices. Dresden was heavily bombed during World War II, and the discovery of unexploded bombs is not uncommon in the city. Similar incidents have occurred in other parts of Europe, including Cologne and Paris.

The body of Daniel 'Dan' Davis, a missing Illinois father, was found in a wooded area near train tracks in the Chicago suburbs after a three-month search. Davis was last seen on November 26, 2025, after being involved in a car crash and refusing medical treatment. He was later dropped off at work by police and disappeared. His daughter, Wendy Davis, confirmed the news on Facebook, expressing relief that the search was over but grief at the loss of her father. The cause of Davis's death is still under investigation.

The article argues that China's green energy achievements are overstated and that its real energy agenda is focused on increasing overall energy production, including fossil fuels, and advancing nuclear power. The author, Bjorn Lomborg, claims that China's solar panel production is dependent on coal and that its electric vehicle industry is also linked to coal energy. Lomborg suggests that the West should learn from China's energy policies and invest in nuclear power to achieve a more significant reduction in carbon emissions.

A Florida nurse, Rene Perez, was arrested for allegedly murdering his married ex-coworker, Linda Campitelli, with whom he was having an affair. The murder took place on October 28, 2024, during a birthday rendezvous arranged by Perez. Campitelli's body was found with severe injuries, including skull and rib fractures. Perez was arrested nearly a year and a half later and charged with first-degree murder, among other crimes. The investigation involved analyzing numerous witness statements, search warrants, and cell phone data.

Jeffrey Epstein, the late financier and convicted sex offender, sought PR advice from Joe Lockhart, Bill Clinton's former White House press secretary, in 2015 to mitigate the damage from a sex-trafficking scandal. Epstein misspelled Lockhart's name as 'lockhard' in an email to Larry Summers, who introduced them. Lockhart claimed he never worked for Epstein and declined his offer for consulting help. The revelation has caused unease among those close to the Clintons and has further damaged Larry Summers' reputation due to his ties to Epstein.

The article by Miranda Devine criticizes the media's coverage of a 2026 ISIS-inspired bomb attack in New York City, arguing that it downplayed the terrorist aspect and framed the attackers sympathetically. The attack occurred during a protest led by right-wing activist Jake Lang near Gracie Mansion, where two suspects, Emir Balat and Ibrahim Kayumi, threw homemade bombs. The media, including The New York Times and CNN, allegedly obscured the culprits' identities and ideology, portraying the attack as a clash between protesters and counterprotesters. Mayor Zohran Mamdani's response was also criticized for drawing a moral equivalence between 'hate speech' and actual violence. Devine argues that this narrative puts everyone in danger by lionizing terrorists and portraying their victims as the real villains.

A decade-old 'Today' show segment featuring Nancy Guthrie, the mother of Savannah Guthrie, has resurfaced, providing a glimpse into Nancy's Tucson home where she went missing on February 1. The 2013 clip shows Nancy, then 71, demonstrating her bed-making skills to Savannah and her 'Today' show colleagues at 3 a.m. MST. Nancy's disappearance has entered its fifth week, and police believe she was kidnapped from her home. The resurfaced footage has sparked speculation that her bedroom likely remains unchanged since the segment was filmed.

President Trump's lawyers have demanded that New York Attorney General Letitia James' office release all communications with Michael Cohen, Trump's ex-fixer, after Cohen claimed he was 'coerced' into testifying against Trump. The demand comes as Trump's team prepares to file a brief with the New York State Court of Appeals in response to James' request to reinstate a $500 million civil fraud penalty against Trump. Trump's lawyers argue that Cohen's testimony was key to the case against Trump and that his alleged communications with James' office are 'vital' to their decision on whether to file a motion to vacate the judgment.

China aims to boost its domestic aircraft industry through a five-year plan that targets increased production of the C919 narrowbody jet, development of a new engine, and reduced reliance on foreign components. The plan, set to be approved by the top legislature, seeks to challenge the duopoly of Boeing and Airbus by accelerating the rise of China's home-grown airliner fleet, including the C909 regional plane, C919 narrowbody, and C929 widebody. Analysts say the next five years will be crucial to the success of these aircraft models and the localization of critical parts such as engines.

China's financial institutions and regulators are exercising caution over OpenClaw, a viral open-source AI agent, due to security concerns. Several brokerages, banks, and government bodies have restricted staff access to OpenClaw, citing the need for high levels of access to user devices and potential security risks. Employees at top investment banks and lenders in mainland China and Hong Kong reported strict controls on installing external software, reflecting the institutions' cautious approach to information security and risk management.

The article discusses how China can improve its global image by leveraging personal stories and experiences of international students, tourists, and foreign employees of Chinese companies. Zhang Bo, a professor and political adviser, suggests that these individuals can serve as 'grass-roots ambassadors' to help tell China's story well. Zhang emphasizes the importance of social media in sharing experiences and shaping perceptions of China. The article highlights China's efforts to expand its soft power and improve its global image, in line with President Xi Jinping's call to 'tell the China story well'.

China has resumed island building in the South China Sea after a 10-year pause, according to satellite images. The images show extensive land reclamation work at Antelope Reef, a disputed shoal in the Paracel Islands claimed by Vietnam. The reef's surface area has expanded substantially, with over 30 vessels, believed to be dredgers and construction support ships, present in its lagoon. This development is significant as China had officially halted such work over a decade ago. The reef is strategically located near Woody Island, China's administrative hub for the South China Sea.

A multi-car collision on Tsing Ma Bridge in Hong Kong injured 10 people and disrupted airport-bound traffic. A man was arrested for allegedly driving while disqualified. The crash occurred at 8:31 am, and the bridge was partially closed until 12:08 pm. Travellers were affected, with one missing a flight to Taipei due to the traffic delay.

Southeast Asia's small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are bracing themselves for higher operating costs due to the recent surge in oil prices caused by the escalating Iran war. SMEs are more vulnerable to the shock as they have less capital to absorb sudden increases in operating costs. The impact will be felt across various industries, including food and logistics, as higher oil prices feed into freight, logistics, and travel costs. Business owners, like Roy Chan, owner of Goldenroy Sourdough Pizza in Singapore, are preparing for potential price increases of up to 30% from suppliers.

The article profiles Finnish President Alexander Stubb as a leader who remains calm and optimistic in troubled times. It highlights his fitness, can-do attitude, and refusal to panic, making him a notable figure among world leaders. The article suggests that his approach is admired by his peers and could be a valuable asset in times of crisis.

The article discusses how India's foreign policy is being tested by the increasing chaos in the world, with powerful nations dominating others and international laws being disregarded. It highlights that India can no longer be complacent about handling an unpredictable America and that the current situation is a test for Indian foreign policy. The article suggests that India has much to lose from a world in chaos and that it needs to navigate this complex situation carefully.

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The article discusses whether the Gulf states should join attacks on Iran, considering their lack of trust in America and Israel, internal divisions, and the risk of domestic strife. The Gulf Co-operation Council (GCC) has struggled with cooperation, and foreign-policy disputes have led to years-long ruptures between monarchs. The article analyzes the complexities of the situation and the potential consequences of the Gulf states' involvement in a conflict with Iran.

The War Room newsletter discusses whether ceasefires can be effective, with a particular focus on the situation in Ukraine. Richard Cockett, a senior editor, considers the feasibility of a ceasefire in the ongoing conflict. The newsletter touches upon various international issues, including the military capabilities of America and Israel, India's stance in a chaotic world, and the impact of Iran's drone swarms. It also highlights the role of leaders such as Binyamin Netanyahu and Turkey's president in representing the Muslim world. The overall tone is analytical, examining the complexities of international conflicts and diplomacy.

A British couple, aged 66 and 64, drowned at Shellharbour Beach on the New South Wales coast in Australia while swimming. Despite being pulled from the water by members of the public and receiving CPR, they could not be revived. The incident occurred shortly after 11am local time on Wednesday, and the couple's relatives were with them at the beach. Inspector Luke Geradts praised the actions of those who attempted to rescue the couple, but noted that the rough surf conditions and rip current likely contributed to the tragedy. The UK Foreign Office is supporting the family, and a report will be prepared for the coroner. This incident highlights the dangers of swimming in rough conditions and the importance of swimming between the flags.

The article discusses the escalating conflict in Sudan, where drone warfare has added a new layer of danger, making it difficult for humanitarian aid to reach civilians. The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) are battling for territory, resulting in numerous drone strikes that have killed hundreds of civilians. The situation is further complicated by the closure of borders and deportation of Sudanese refugees by neighboring countries, including Egypt. The UK's decision to ban study visas for students from Sudan and other countries has also been criticized.

The article discusses the devastating impact of war on civilians, particularly focusing on the story of Rabbi Yitzhak Biton, who lost three of his children in an Iranian missile strike on the Israeli town of Beit Shemesh. The article highlights the human cost of conflict and the emotional toll on families. Rabbi Biton, while grieving, reflects on the futility of war, stating that 'in war, everyone loses' and that there is no real winner. The article also touches on the destruction caused by the strike, including the razing of a school and a synagogue, and the community's response to the tragedy.

A van was driven into a barricade near the White House in Washington DC on March 11, 2026. The driver was apprehended by the Secret Service and no injuries were reported. A police bomb squad checked the vehicle and determined it to be safe. The driver is being interviewed and criminal charges are pending.

A viral video of a young girl being shoved to the ground by a woman at Tokyo's Shibuya crossing has reignited debate over Japan's 'bumping' trend, where people deliberately bump into others in crowded public spaces. Experts attribute this phenomenon to a combination of stress, gender dynamics, and the pressures of modern life. The trend, known as 'butsukari otoko' or 'bumping man,' has been observed in various parts of Japan, with both men and women being perpetrators. While some commenters condemned the woman's actions in the viral video, others questioned the wisdom of taking photographs in crowded areas. The incident has raised concerns among locals and tourists alike, with the Chinese embassy in Tokyo warning its citizens to be cautious in crowded places.

China's National People's Congress (NPC) is set to approve a new 'ethnic unity' law that prioritizes Mandarin over minority ethnic languages in schools and public signage. The law is part of President Xi Jinping's policy to assimilate ethnic minorities into the Han majority culture. The NPC is also expected to approve a new environmental code and the 15th five-year plan. Critics view the ethnic unity law as a move to legalize forced assimilation and political control.

Experts warn that the rapid expansion of AI-powered mass surveillance systems across Africa is violating citizens' right to privacy and having a chilling effect on society. At least $2 billion has been spent by 11 African governments on Chinese-built surveillance technology that recognizes faces and monitors movements. The technology is being used to monitor human rights activists, political opponents, and protesters, and is having a disproportionate impact on marginalized communities. The lack of regulation and legal framework on storing and using the data on individuals is a major concern, and experts warn that the introduction of laws could be used to legitimize the systems and further restrict civil liberties.

Scientists are urging the global community to quit fossil fuels to mitigate the impact of extreme weather events like the deadly floods in Brazil's coffee heartland. The floods, which have caused landslides and widespread destruction, are linked to global heating and are expected to intensify if fossil fuel use continues. The region, particularly the state of Minas Gerais, is a major producer of arabica coffee beans, and the disaster is likely to drive up coffee prices globally. Experts say that inequality, inadequate urban planning, and climate change have contributed to the severity of the disaster.

The article analyzes how US President Donald Trump's handling of the Iran conflict could inadvertently benefit Russian President Vladimir Putin. Trump's administration is considering easing sanctions on Russia to mitigate the impact of rising oil prices caused by the Iran war. Meanwhile, Russia is reportedly helping Iran target US troops with drones, a development that could further complicate the situation. The article suggests that Putin is exploiting the global crisis to advance his goals in Ukraine and fracture NATO cohesion.

The article discusses the spread of fake AI videos related to the Iran war on social media, which have garnered tens of millions of views. It also covers various other news stories, including a US military strike that accidentally hit an Iranian elementary school, the International Energy Agency's release of emergency oil stocks, and Russia's alleged assistance to Iran with drone tactics. Additionally, the article touches on unrelated news stories such as a political shift in Nepal and a member of the Iranian women's soccer team changing her mind about seeking asylum in Australia.

The Iranian government has issued chilling threats to its citizens and Iranians in the diaspora, warning dissidents and protestors against speaking out against the regime. The threats come amid ongoing tensions and conflict in the Middle East, with the US military having accidentally struck an Iranian elementary school, killing at least 168 children and 14 teachers. The incident is under investigation, and the US has deferred comment. Meanwhile, Russia is reportedly helping Iran with advanced drone tactics from its war in Ukraine to hit US and Gulf nation targets.

The article explores how China's economic rise has redefined the relationships between overseas Chinese and their relatives in China. It highlights the shift from a reliance on financial support to a more personal and kinship-based connection. The story follows the experiences of a Singaporean family, the Aws, as they visit their ancestral home in Anxi county, Fujian province, and interact with their Chinese relatives. The article notes that China's rapid economic growth has lifted hundreds of millions out of poverty, and the per capita disposable income for rural residents has surged. As a result, the dynamics between overseas Chinese and their relatives have changed, with a greater emphasis on personal choice and kinship rather than obligation.

The US administration, led by President Donald Trump, has initiated a trade investigation into over a dozen major economies, including China, the EU, and Singapore, under Section 301 of the Trade Act. The probe focuses on alleged excess manufacturing capacity and is seen as a move to revive Trump's tariffs after a Supreme Court ruling against his global duties. The investigation could lead to new tariffs being imposed on imports from specific countries deemed to employ unfair trading practices.

The article explores the complex dynamics between the ethnic Chinese minority and the Malay majority in Kelantan, Malaysia, a state governed by the Islamist party PAS. While the Chinese community has historically been integrated into Kelantanese society, recent policies have led to increased regulatory encroachment and economic challenges. The article highlights the paradox between the state's symbols of interfaith accommodation, such as the 'Beijing Mosque', and the tightening grip on non-Muslim spaces. It also showcases the cultural heritage and identity of the Chinese community in Kelantan, who have maintained their traditions while adapting to the local culture.

The Iran crisis has reignited fears of an energy supply squeeze and inflation shock in Europe, reminiscent of the 2022 energy crisis triggered by Russia's invasion of Ukraine. However, analysts believe that Europe's diversified energy sources and different macroeconomic environment may mitigate the impact. The conflict has driven oil and gas prices higher, with Brent crude retreating from near-$120 per barrel and European natural gas prices pulling back from a three-year high. Experts warn that prolonged supply disruptions could lift eurozone inflation and put central bank rate cuts on hold.

South Korea's parliament has passed a special bill to establish a state-run investment corporation to manage its planned $350 billion investment into the U.S. The move comes after U.S. President Donald Trump threatened to raise tariffs to 25% in January, and follows Washington's announcement of Section 301 investigations into 16 trading partners, including South Korea. The investment comprises $150 billion toward shipbuilding and $200 billion for projects in strategic sectors, and is expected to be implemented under the new corporation, which will be fully financed by the government. The passage of the legislation provides Seoul with the legal framework needed to carry out its investment commitment made to Washington in exchange for more favorable tariff rates.

The article explores how Trump's supporters react to his claims that Democrats will cheat in upcoming elections. NPR traveled to Pennsylvania to gather opinions from voters in swing districts. Most Republicans disagreed with Trump's claims, citing confidence in the electoral system. Some attributed their trust to local election officials and family members rather than Trump. Democrats saw Trump's accusations as a pretext for election interference. The article highlights a shift in Republican attitudes towards election integrity since the 2020 election.

New York Giants co-owner Steve Tisch is planning to transfer his 23.1 percent stake in the team to his children, according to a memo sent to NFL executives. The move comes after the release of emails showing Tisch's connection to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Despite the transfer, Tisch is expected to remain involved with the team. The NFL has not commented on the situation, but Commissioner Roger Goodell previously stated that the league would 'look at all the facts' regarding Tisch's emails with Epstein.