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The Afghan Taliban government has confirmed that it attacked Pakistani troops along their shared border, killing 58 Pakistani military personnel in what it called 'an act of retaliation' after Pakistan allegedly violated Afghan airspace and bombed a market inside Afghanistan. Pakistan disputed the death toll, saying 23 of its armed forces members died and claiming that 200 Taliban and affiliated terrorists were neutralized. The clashes have led to the closure of the two main border crossings between the countries, stranding hundreds of trucks. Both sides have accused each other of harboring terrorists and violating international laws. The international community, including Saudi Arabia and Qatar, has called for restraint and dialogue.

Oscar-winning actress Diane Keaton has died at the age of 79. Keaton, known for her roles in films such as 'The Godfather', 'Annie Hall', and 'First Wives Club', was praised by her peers and friends, including Goldie Hawn, Steve Martin, and Ben Stiller, for her talent, style, and kindness. Keaton had a successful career spanning over five decades, starring in numerous films and directing several others. She was known for her unique style and never married, having adopted two children.

A massive fire destroyed over a dozen homes in a Lima neighborhood, with suspected cause being an illegal pyrotechnics warehouse. Drone footage captured the devastating scene in San Juan de Miraflores, with no reported fatalities. The article provides a detailed account of the incident, including the suspected cause and the extent of the damage.

A devastating explosion at an explosives factory in Bucksnort, Tennessee, has left 16 people presumed dead, sending shockwaves through the small, close-knit community. Residents gathered for candlelit vigils to mourn the loss of family, friends, and neighbors. The blast, which occurred on Friday morning, has raised questions about the cause and the safety of the factory. Authorities have switched to a recovery strategy, with rapid DNA analysis underway to identify the victims. The community is coming together to support each other, with many expressing their grief and shock at the tragedy.

The office of Madagascar's President Andry Rajoelina has announced an attempt to seize power in the country. An army unit known as CAPSAT claimed to have taken over the military command and appointed a new army chief of staff. The development comes amid ongoing protests against Rajoelina's government over high unemployment, corruption, and cost-of-living crisis. Protesters, mainly Gen Z, have been rallying support through social media and have been demanding Rajoelina's resignation. The African Union has expressed concern and urged dialogue to resolve the crisis. The protests have resulted in at least 22 deaths and 100 injuries, according to the UN human rights chief.

Mali has imposed a $10,000 visa bond on US visitors in response to a similar requirement imposed by the Trump administration on Malian citizens. The move comes despite efforts to improve diplomatic relations between the two countries, which have been strained since a 2021 coup in Mali led to the rise of Gen Assimi Goïta. The US has taken a tough line on immigration since President Donald Trump's presidency, and Mali's decision is seen as a tit-for-tat response. The development is the latest in a series of strained relations between the US and several African countries, including Burkina Faso, which recently refused to accept deportees from the US.

Paramjit Singh, a 48-year-old Sikh man and US green card holder, has been detained by US immigration authorities for over two months despite battling a brain tumour and heart condition. Singh was detained at Chicago O'Hare International Airport upon returning from India, citing two decades-old cases. His family and lawyer claim there are no active cases against him and accuse immigration authorities of using old cases to delay his release. They also allege he lacks proper medical care in detention. Singh's family is worried about his health, as his second brain tumour surgery has been delayed. His case is set to be heard on 14 October, amid a wider crackdown by the US President Donald Trump's administration on immigration.

Patrick Herminie, the opposition leader in Seychelles, has won the presidential election, defeating the incumbent Wavel Ramkalawan in a runoff vote with 52.7% of the votes. Herminie promised to lower the cost of living, revive public services, and unite the island nation. Ramkalawan congratulated Herminie on his victory, acknowledging his significant legacy. The election followed a first round two weeks prior where neither candidate secured a majority. Herminie was previously charged with witchcraft in 2023, which he claimed was politically motivated, but the charges were dropped in 2024. His party, United Seychelles, recently won parliamentary elections with a solid majority.

Afghanistan's Taliban government claimed to have killed 58 Pakistani soldiers in overnight border operations, while Pakistan reported 23 troops killed. The clashes are a result of escalating tensions between the two countries, with Afghanistan accusing Pakistan of violating its territory and airspace. Pakistan, in turn, accuses Afghanistan of harboring militants. The situation has led to the closure of key border crossings and raised concerns about regional instability. Regional powers, including Saudi Arabia and Qatar, have called for restraint and dialogue to de-escalate tensions.

A 15-year-old British army horse named Quaker, who was involved in a chaotic incident in London last year where five horses broke loose and galloped through the streets, has been retired to a sanctuary in Buckinghamshire. The horses were spooked by construction rubble and caused a five-mile police chase, resulting in injuries to five soldiers and four civilians. Quaker suffered a broken bone and serious bleeding, and after veterinary care, it was decided that he would not return to duty.

China has imposed retaliatory port fees on American-owned ships docking in the country, in response to the US government's planned port fees on Chinese ships. The fees, which will take effect on October 14, will be applied to vessels owned or operated by American companies or individuals, and ships built in the US or flying the American flag. The fees will start at 400 yuan ($56) per net ton per voyage and rise to 1,120 yuan ($157) per net ton by 2028. China's Ministry of Transport said the fees are 'countermeasures' in response to 'wrongful' US practices. The move is the latest escalation in the ongoing trade tensions between the US and China, ahead of a meeting between US President Donald Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping.

Former NSA head Tim Haugh warns that China's hacking capacity is growing, targeting US critical infrastructure, including utilities, transportation, and financial systems. Haugh believes China's goal is to gain an advantage in a potential conflict by disrupting key American industries. The US is struggling to keep up with China's cyber capabilities, and Haugh's termination as NSA head has raised concerns about the country's ability to counter these threats.

Spanish police arrested a site manager after discovering 250 dead animals, mostly dogs, in a filthy warehouse in the village of Meson do Vento. The Civil Guard found the animals in various stages of decomposition, with some even mummified. 171 surviving animals, including exotic bird species, were rescued but were found eating the dead due to lack of food and water. The site was described as having 'extremely poor' hygiene and animal welfare conditions. The manager was charged with animal abuse, illegal possession of protected species, and unqualified veterinary practice. This incident is part of a larger issue of illegal animal trafficking in Spain, with recent cases involving exotic animals and big cats.

French President Emmanuel Macron has reappointed Sébastien Lecornu as Prime Minister, just days after his resignation, in an attempt to end the country's political deadlock and produce a budget. Lecornu's reappointment follows intense negotiations and comes as France struggles with mounting economic challenges and ballooning debt. The political crisis is aggravating France's troubles and raising alarm across the European Union. Macron's office released a one-sentence statement announcing the appointment, and Lecornu said he accepted the job out of 'duty' and aims to give France a budget by the end of the year. The new government will have to renounce ambitions to run for president in 2027 and will focus on responding to the daily problems of French citizens. The political deadlock stems from Macron's decision to dissolve the National Assembly, resulting in a hung parliament and gridlock that has unnerved investors and stalled efforts to curb France's spiraling deficit and public debt.

Heavy rains in central and southeastern Mexico caused flooding, landslides, and damage to homes, hospitals, and schools, resulting in at least 22 deaths. The state of Hidalgo was the hardest hit, with 16 deaths reported. Neighboring states Puebla and Veracruz also experienced fatalities and damage. Authorities reported widespread destruction, including over 1,000 damaged homes, 59 damaged hospitals and clinics, and 308 damaged schools. The federal government was requested to provide assistance to rescue stranded individuals and support affected communities.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un showcased his country's military capabilities, including a new intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) called the Hwasong-20, during a military parade celebrating the 80th anniversary of the ruling Workers' Party. The parade was attended by high-level foreign officials, including Chinese Premier Li Qiang and former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev. Kim emphasized the need for his military to continue growing and preparing for threats, while also highlighting North Korea's diplomatic efforts with other nations. The Hwasong-20 is seen as a significant development in North Korea's nuclear program, with the potential to target the continental United States and its rivals in Asia.

The article discusses the renewed trade tensions between the United States and China, with Donald Trump threatening to impose an additional 100% levy on certain Chinese goods, particularly rare-earth minerals. This development marks a return to the fierce trade conflict that had subsided temporarily in the spring with a last-minute truce. China has been one of the few countries to match the U.S. tit-for-tat in trade retaliations. The article highlights the ongoing struggle between the two economic giants and the potential implications of escalating trade tensions.

The article discusses how Finland and other countries neighboring Russia are adapting to the economic challenges posed by the ongoing war in Ukraine. It highlights Finland's efforts to maintain trade despite closing its border with Russia, and explores the potential for high-tech exports such as icebreakers. The article also touches on the broader economic implications of the conflict for the region.

The article discusses Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's economic growth target for India by 2047, the 100th anniversary of its independence. Modi aims for a $10 trillion economy, which is considered a conservative target compared to earlier goals of $30 trillion. The article questions whether this target is ambitious enough for India to be considered a 'developed' country.

The article discusses the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Western Tigray, Ethiopia, three years after the end of the civil war. The region has been subject to abuses, including massacres and deportations of Tigrayans by militiamen. Many have fled, but some remain trapped. The article highlights the story of Mehret, a Tigrayan woman who was forced to flee her home but was unable to escape the region.

The article discusses the prevalence of ageing autocrats in Africa, highlighting leaders such as Paul Biya of Cameroon and Yoweri Museveni of Uganda who have been in power for decades. It notes that Africa is home to seven of the top ten longest-serving leaders globally, excluding monarchs. The article suggests that these leaders are not relics of the past but rather a template for the future, with many seeking re-election despite their advanced age.

TotalEnergies, a French supermajor, is leading the exploration of new oil and gas projects in Africa. The company is involved in three major projects in Uganda, Namibia, and Mozambique. In Mozambique, TotalEnergies is preparing to restart a $20bn gas project that was paused due to jihadist attacks. The project is one of the largest foreign investments in Africa and will have a significant impact on the continent's energy landscape.

The article discusses how Donald Trump's tariffs, introduced on 'Liberation Day' six months prior, have failed to achieve their intended goal of breaking global trade. Despite initial market shudders and economist predictions of catastrophe, the global trade landscape remains largely unchanged. The article highlights that Trump's tariffs were based on flawed numbers and a misguided understanding of global trade. The piece also touches on the reactions of America's allies and the predictions of economists, as well as the current state of global trade.

The ultra-rich are shifting away from luxury assets such as fine wine, great art, and glitzy mansions. Despite the value of these items increasing significantly over the years, the wealthy are now opting for alternative investments. The article uses the example of Château d'Yquem wine, which saw a 60% increase in price from the mid-2010s to 2023. The luxury-investment index produced by Knight Frank rose by 70% from 2015 to 2023. However, the ultra-rich are now reevaluating their priorities and moving away from luxury assets.

Hong Kong doctors are urging parents and schools to bring forward flu vaccination appointments for children after a 13-year-old girl died from an influenza B infection. The girl had not received the seasonal influenza vaccination. Infectious disease specialists warn that influenza B is just as dangerous as influenza A and can cause serious complications such as myocarditis. Dr. Mike Kwan Yat-wah, president of the Asian Society for Paediatric Infectious Diseases, suggests that schools liaise with immunisation teams for earlier vaccine appointments and that parents get their children vaccinated through private doctors if necessary. This is the first paediatric flu-related death in Hong Kong this year.

The article discusses how sensationalized stories about crimes committed by foreigners in Europe, published by Japanese media, may be influencing the shift to the right in Japan's political landscape and the rise of anti-immigrant parties. Academics and journalists attribute this trend to the decline of traditional media and the increasing demand for online content, which has led to a proliferation of lurid headlines. The article cites a study showing that 77.4% of Japanese obtain news from online sites, and notes that social media and 'new media' are subject to less scrutiny regarding the veracity of their stories.

China's exports rebounded in September, rising 8.3% year-on-year to $328.6 billion, beating expectations and driven by recovering overseas demand and front-loading ahead of the 'super golden week' holiday. Imports also improved, increasing 7.4% year-on-year to $238.1 billion. The trade surplus was $90.45 billion. Analysts attributed the rebound to a recovery in global manufacturing and expansionary fiscal and monetary policies in major economies. However, the latest flare-up with the US has renewed uncertainty over the economic outlook, with Wang Jun, vice-minister of the General Administration of Customs, stating that achieving stable growth in trade during the fourth quarter would require significant effort due to a challenging external environment and rising trade uncertainties.

The article discusses Shing-Tung Yau, a renowned mathematician and chair of Tsinghua University's Qiuzhen College, sharing his views on China's path to global leadership in science. Yau emphasizes the importance of nurturing domestic talent and highlights Hong Kong's potential to become a science and tech hub. He also touches on China's 15th five-year plan and its focus on innovation-driven economy, as well as the ongoing tech race between China and the US.

The article discusses China's latest assault rifle, the QBZ-191, and its significance in the country's military modernization. The QBZ-191 is part of the Type 20 rifle family, which includes variants such as the compact carbine QBZ-192 and the precision variant QBU-191. The rifle was first publicly displayed during the 2019 National Day parade in Beijing and has since been featured in other military parades. The QBZ-191 represents China's efforts to catch up with global trends in combat rifles, matching the capabilities of world-class rifles like the US M4, Belgian SCAR, and German HK416. The development and deployment of the QBZ-191 indicate China's commitment to enhancing its military capabilities and competitiveness in the global arms market.

The article 'Science fiction' in South China Sea, Singapore's deadly feuds: 5 weekend reads you missed from South China Morning Post provides a compilation of five significant news stories from the previous weekend. The stories cover various topics including a report on the Chinese military deceiving a foreign spy plane in the South China Sea, Hong Kong's efforts to attract foreign university students amidst competition from Singapore, and China's approach to winning the AI race. The article aims to keep readers informed about news across Asia and beyond.

China's Ministry of Commerce has issued policy announcements in documents that can only be accessed using domestic software WPS Office, marking a shift away from Microsoft Word format amid escalating US-China trade tensions. This move is seen as part of Beijing's tech self-reliance drive and a response to the US's technological leverage in the rivalry. The US President has threatened to curb exports of critical software following China's announcement of new export controls on rare earths.

At least 41 people have died in central and southeastern Mexico due to floods and landslides triggered by heavy rainfall. The death toll is rising as rescue operations continue, with thousands of soldiers scouring the destruction and clearing blocked roads. The heavy rains have caused widespread damage, with over 16,000 homes damaged or destroyed, and 27 people still missing.

The pastor of China's Zion Church, Ezra Jin, has been detained by Chinese authorities as part of a sweeping crackdown on Christian leaders. The church, which was once Beijing's largest, has been operating underground since 2018. Jin's daughter, Grace, told Fox News that nearly 30 other church pastors and workers were also detained or went missing across China. The crackdown is part of a broader effort by the Chinese government to suppress religious freedom, with other church leaders and workers facing charges such as 'using superstitious activities to undermine the implementation of justice' and 'fraud'. Jin's family is calling on the US State Department to demand his release, and a US-based religious group, China Aid, has condemned the CCP's actions.

A former leader of Doctors Without Borders (MSF), Alain Destexhe, has criticized the organization for its handling of the Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza, accusing it of bias and acting as 'accomplices of Hamas.' Destexhe, who served as MSF's secretary-general in the 1990s, stated that the organization's current stance is far from its original impartial and humanitarian roots. He cited MSF's condemnation of Israel's actions in Gaza without mentioning Hamas' massacre and hostage-taking, as well as social media posts from MSF staffers celebrating the October 7 attack. Destexhe believes MSF should withdraw from Gaza to maintain its humanitarian integrity.

The killing of Albanian Appeals Court Judge Astrit Kalaja in a courtroom shooting has highlighted the country's judicial crisis and public distrust in the justice system. Reforms implemented a decade ago by the EU and US have been criticized for being transformed into a political instrument, undermining democratic institutions and concentrating power in the hands of the executive. The opposition and former judicial officials have blamed the reforms for creating a dysfunctional judiciary, a staggering backlog of cases, and a lack of trust in the system.

A man disrupted St. Peter's Basilica by urinating on the Altar of the Confession, prompting swift security intervention. The individual, who had 'Save children of Ukraine' written on his back, was escorted out and handed over to Italian authorities. The incident is the latest in a series of disturbances at the basilica.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is facing criticism from senior members of his government over his policy towards China, particularly after a collapsed espionage case. Cabinet ministers are concerned that Starmer has taken too generous an approach to Beijing and want him to prioritize national security over economic benefits. The controversy has led to unease in the Cabinet and speculation about a potential leadership challenge to Starmer in 2026. The government is also considering China's application to build a new mega-embassy in London, which has raised security concerns.

Scientists warn that the world is crossing dangerous climate tipping points sooner than expected, with coral reefs already experiencing irreversible die-off and the Amazon rainforest at risk of collapse. The Global Tipping Points report by 160 researchers highlights the urgent need for climate action ahead of COP30. Global warming is happening faster than anticipated, with average temperatures already 1.3-1.4°C above pre-industrial levels. The report warns of disruptions to the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation and emphasizes the need to phase out fossil fuels and reduce carbon emissions.

The article discusses how the H-1B1 visa remains a viable option for Singaporeans seeking to work in the US despite the Trump administration's tightening of immigration rules. While new in-person US visa interviews and potential rises in 'prevailing wage' requirements may pose challenges, the new H-1B fee could create opportunities for Singaporeans. The H-1B1 visa, established under a 2004 free trade pact, allows Singaporeans to access a fast-track, one-year renewable work visa.

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 article highlights the benefits of train travel, including the scenic routes, reliability, and convenience, as well as the importance of the service for rural communities. The ETS is set to be extended to Johor Bahru by end-2025, and other developments such as the East Coast Rail Link and Penang Light Rail Transit are also underway.

The number of international students arriving in the US in August 2025 fell by 19% compared to the previous year, with significant declines from Asia, India, and China. The decline is attributed to various factors including visa delays, travel bans, and increased uncertainty due to the Trump administration's immigration policies. Students from Europe remained relatively stable, while those from Africa, the Middle East, and South America also showed declines. The data suggests a potential drop in new student enrollments, with implications for US universities and the country's reputation as a destination for international education.

The article discusses the challenges faced by Big Oil companies as they confront a weaker crude price environment and the potential impact on shareholder payouts. Analysts expect oil majors to reduce costs and capital spending to maintain their generous shareholder returns. Companies like Exxon Mobil, Chevron, Shell, and BP have already cut jobs and reduced costs. The article highlights the difficult choices that oil majors must make, including reducing shareholder returns, cutting buybacks, or slashing drilling expenses. Experts warn that dividend cuts would have significant consequences, and companies are likely to face tough decisions in the coming months.

The Dutch government has taken control of Nexperia, a Chinese-owned semiconductor maker based in the Netherlands, under its Goods Availability Act. The move aims to ensure the continued availability of Nexperia's chips in Europe amid rising global trade tensions. Nexperia, a subsidiary of China's Wingtech Technology, specializes in high-volume chip production for industries such as automotive and consumer electronics. The decision was made after the Dutch ministry observed 'serious governance shortcomings and actions' within Nexperia, posing a threat to Dutch and European economic security. Wingtech's shares plunged 10% on the Shanghai Stock Exchange following the announcement. The move has been criticized by Wingtech as 'excessive intervention driven by geopolitical bias.'

Tata Capital, the financial arm of India's Tata Group, made its stock market debut with a muted performance, rising 1.37% after a $1.75 billion initial public offering (IPO). The IPO was priced at ₹326 per share, the upper end of its price band, and was fully subscribed. Analysts attributed the lackluster performance to limited investor appetite for quality non-banking financial companies in India, citing a slowdown in the Indian economy and the impact of U.S. tariffs on India. Tata Capital is India's third-largest nonbank lender by revenue and offers a range of financial services. The IPO market in India has been vibrant this year, with 254 IPOs raising $11.8 billion in the first nine months.

Analysts predict that silver prices could double to $100 after surpassing the $50 mark, driven by a rush to safe-haven assets, supply-demand mismatch, and increasing demand for industrial uses. Silver has gained over 78% this year, outperforming gold's 50% gain. Experts cite silver's dual role as a store of value and industrial metal, particularly in electronics and renewable energy technologies, as a key factor in its rally. While some predict a potential pause or pullback, many analysts believe the bull run could continue into 2026.

An 83-year-old US Navy veteran, William Eugene Ray, with dementia was found dead inside a walk-in freezer at the Waverly Assisted Living and Memory Care facility in Trinity, Florida. His daughter, Kristen Spencer, had installed a Ring camera in his room to monitor him and noticed he was missing on September 26. The camera footage showed Ray leaving his room around 12:30 a.m. on September 25 and not returning. The facility staff discovered his body in the freezer a few hours after Spencer alerted them. The Pasco Sheriff's Office found no signs of foul play, but the family is seeking answers and raising concerns about the facility's safety and care. The Waverly facility has expressed sadness and defended its staff, stating it has never had an incident of this nature before.

A fight broke out between players from the Kansas City Chiefs and Detroit Lions after their NFL game on October 12, 2025. The altercation started when Detroit defensive back Brian Branch slapped Kansas City receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster. Branch claimed he was frustrated after being blocked in the back illegally by Smith-Schuster. The situation escalated into a melee but was quickly brought under control. Branch later apologized for his actions, calling them 'childish.' Lions head coach Dan Campbell condemned Branch's behavior, stating it was 'inexcusable' and 'not what we do here.' The incident is likely to result in disciplinary action from the league.

The 81st annual NYC Columbus Day Parade was canceled due to New York's state of emergency declaration and severe weather conditions caused by a nor'easter. Governor Kathy Hochul announced the state of emergency on Sunday evening, citing high winds, heavy rain, and flooding in the tri-state area. The Columbus Citizens Foundation made the cancellation decision just over 12 hours before the scheduled start time, prioritizing the safety of participants and viewers. The parade won't be rescheduled, but the foundation looks forward to the 82nd annual parade in 2026. The nor'easter is expected to bring wind gusts up to 60 mph and waves as high as 15 feet along shore communities, with the worst of the storm predicted to hit during the next two high tides.

A new study by the University of California, Irvine (UCI) has discovered that dietary fiber, specifically inulin found in vegetables like onions, garlic, and artichokes, can protect the body from the harmful effects of sugar by reshaping gut bacteria to metabolize fructose before it reaches the liver. The research, published in Nature Metabolism, found that inulin can prevent the accumulation of fat in the liver and even reverse signs of fatty liver disease. The study's findings have implications for the prevention and treatment of various metabolic disorders, including diabetes, obesity, and cancer. The researchers suggest that personalized nutrition strategies based on an individual's gut bacteria and metabolic pathways could be a promising approach.

The UK government's national security adviser, Jonathan Powell, had no involvement in the decision to drop the prosecution of two British men accused of spying for China, according to senior cabinet minister Bridget Phillipson. The case against Christopher Cash and Christopher Berry was abandoned in September due to the government's unwillingness to state that China posed a threat to UK national security, a requirement for a successful prosecution under the Official Secrets Act. Phillipson assured that Powell had no role in the discussions and that Prime Minister Keir Starmer had full confidence in him. The opposition leader, Kemi Badenoch, criticized the government for being 'too weak to stand up to Beijing on a crucial matter of national security'.

New Zealand's government has been accused of 'full-blown climate denial' after cutting methane reduction targets, sparking criticism from scientists and opposition parties. The government plans to reduce methane emissions by 14-24% by 2050, compared to the previous target of 24-47%. Farmers have praised the move, while environmental campaigners have condemned it as 'weak' and 'unambitious'. The decision has raised concerns about New Zealand's international standing and its 'clean and green' image.

Japan has seen a record number of babies born to foreign parents in 2024, with over 20,000 children born to non-Japanese couples, accounting for more than 3% of all newborns. This trend is set against a backdrop of a declining birth rate among Japanese couples and a rapidly ageing population. The increase in foreign newborns is attributed to the rising number of foreign residents in Japan, many of whom are in their 20s and 30s and are more likely to remain in the country for longer and have children. The issue of migration has become a contentious political issue, with some politicians calling for stricter immigration rules and better integration. Experts are urging local authorities to do more to support foreign families and ensure that foreign-national children can integrate into Japanese society.

The article is a live news feed covering various Australian news stories on October 13, 2025. Key updates include Victoria police uncertainty over Dezi Freeman's status, the Australian Federal Police investigating Lidia Thorpe's comments at a pro-Palestine rally, changes to super tax rules announced by Treasurer Jim Chalmers, and concerns over a social media ban for under-16s. Other news includes a Qantas data leak, a search for missing boy Gus Lamont, and updates on the National Anti-Corruption Commission's investigations.

CNN's Wolf Blitzer visited the Ichilov Medical Center in Israel where Israeli hostages will be released after being held captive. Dr. Eli Sprecher, CEO of the medical center, spoke with Blitzer about the preparations for receiving the hostages. The article discusses the release of hostages as part of a US-brokered plan between Israel and Hamas.

The article reports on the arrival of helicopters in southern Israel in preparation for the arrival of hostages. A CNN team witnessed at least six helicopters arriving at the Re'im base, where hostages will undergo a medical check before being reunited with their families and flown to hospitals around Tel Aviv. The development is part of a larger context of a ceasefire plan agreement between Israel and Hamas.

The article discusses China's reaction to US President Donald Trump's threat to impose new 100% tariffs, with China vowing to retaliate with countermeasures. The article is part of a CNN video analysis segment featuring CNN's Steven Jiang. The main topic is the escalating trade tensions between the US and China. The article also includes links to other news stories and videos on various topics such as the Gaza ceasefire, Philippines-China tensions, and natural disasters.

The niece of Agnes Wanjiru, a Kenyan woman allegedly murdered by a British soldier in 2012, has traveled to the UK to seek justice. Esther Njoki, now 21, is meeting with UK Defence Secretary John Healey to discuss her aunt's case. Kenyan prosecutors have issued an arrest warrant for the suspect, and the Kenyan government intends to request extradition. Esther, who has been advocating for justice since she was eight, expresses frustration and sadness that the case has taken so long to progress. The article also highlights concerns about British soldiers' behavior in Kenya, including allegations of sexual exploitation.

An Irish start-up, Manna Aero, is testing food delivery drones in west Dublin and plans to expand to the UK in 2026, pending regulatory approval. The drones have completed over 200,000 flights, carrying items like burgers, fresh meat, and eggs. While the company's CEO, Bobby Healy, claims the drones are quieter and safer than traditional delivery methods, locals have expressed concerns about the noise. The Irish government has introduced a drone policy framework, but critics argue that regulations are still lacking. Manna Aero is in dialogue with the UK's Civil Aviation Authority and National Air Traffic Services to secure approval for its UK operations.

The President of Madagascar, Andry Rajoelina, has claimed that a coup is underway after weeks of intense youth-led protests against his leadership. The protests, triggered by water and power outages, have escalated due to dissatisfaction with Rajoelina's government, with demonstrators calling for his resignation over issues such as poverty, cost of living, and alleged corruption. Troops from the elite army unit CAPSAT, which helped Rajoelina seize power in 2009, joined protesters, exchanging fire with security forces and claiming to have taken control of the armed forces. The situation remains volatile, with the UN reporting at least 22 deaths and dozens injured, and the US Embassy advising American citizens to shelter-in-place.

The Alliance Defending Freedom (A.D.F.), a conservative Christian group that helped overturn Roe v. Wade, is expanding its influence in Britain by working with Nigel Farage's Reform U.K. Party. The A.D.F. is guiding the party's leadership on a conservative Christian agenda, similar to the one in the United States, and has orchestrated Farage's appearance in Congress to testify against Britain's free-speech rules. The group aims to roll back abortion rights and empower conservative Christianity in Europe, seeing Britain as a key bridgehead. Farage has started speaking out against abortion, despite previously supporting abortion rights.

The New York Times article discusses the Alliance Defending Freedom (A.D.F.), a Christian legal group, and its efforts to influence British politics, particularly on the issue of abortion. The group's British arm is working with Nigel Farage's Reform U.K. Party to roll back abortion rights in Britain. Despite widespread public support for abortion rights in Britain, A.D.F. is attempting to create cultural change through political alliances and by bringing abortion into mainstream conversation. The article highlights the growing relationship between A.D.F. and Farage's party, as well as the use of Christian right language by Farage.

China has vowed to retaliate if President Donald Trump follows through on his threat to impose 100 percent tariffs on all Chinese goods. New data shows that China's exports to the United States dropped sharply last month. The comments section of the article expresses skepticism and criticism of Trump's ability to manage international trade effectively, with many suggesting that China is strategically prepared for such moves.

China is experiencing a significant decline in population, which is expected to have far-reaching consequences for the country's economy, global ambitions, and supply chains. The decline is attributed to the one-child policy introduced in the 1970s and 1979, which led to a sharp decrease in birth rates. Despite efforts to relax the policy and encourage more births, the birth rate has continued to fall. The shrinking workforce is expected to impact China's economic growth and its ability to become a global power. The article highlights the challenges faced by China and the potential implications for the world.