Global Tensions Rise as Conflicts Escalate Worldwide

Brazil's President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva told the BBC that he has 'no relationship' with US President Donald Trump, criticising Trump's tariffs on Brazilian goods and his communication style. Lula also discussed his relationships with other world leaders, including Putin, and advocated for UN reform. He addressed domestic issues, such as oil exploration near the Amazon River, and his potential re-election in 2026.

The US has vetoed a UN Security Council resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza for the sixth time, citing the resolution's failure to condemn Hamas and recognize Israel's right to self-defense. The move has been met with widespread criticism from other UN members, who describe the humanitarian situation in Gaza as 'catastrophic' and 'cataclysmic'. The conflict has resulted in significant loss of life, with at least 65,141 people killed in Israeli attacks in Gaza since October 7, 2023.

French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife Brigitte are suing US right-wing influencer Candace Owens for defamation after she claimed Brigitte was born male. The couple's lawyer says they will present 'scientific evidence' to prove the allegations are false. Owens' lawyers have responded with a motion to dismiss the claim, arguing it was filed in the wrong jurisdiction.

The Taliban government in Afghanistan has banned books written by women from university curricula and removed 680 books deemed to be of 'concern' due to their perceived anti-Sharia and anti-Taliban content. The ban also includes 18 subjects that are considered to be in conflict with the principles of Sharia and the Taliban's policies. The move is the latest in a series of restrictions imposed by the Taliban since their return to power four years ago, and has been criticized for its impact on women's rights and education. The banned books include titles such as 'Safety in the Chemical Laboratory' and subjects like 'Gender and Development' and 'Women's Sociology'.

US President Donald Trump has suggested that TV networks opposed to him should 'maybe' lose their licenses after late-night TV host Jimmy Kimmel was suspended following his remarks about the murder of conservative influencer Charlie Kirk. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC), headed by a Trump appointee, threatened regulatory action against ABC, prompting the network to pull Kimmel's show off air 'indefinitely'. Trump's comments have raised concerns about the curtailment of free speech, with many condemning the suspension as a form of censorship. The FCC's actions have been criticized by legal scholars, who argue that revoking licenses over political disagreements would be unconstitutional. The incident has sparked a debate about the limits of free speech and the role of the FCC in regulating broadcast content.

A 20-day-old baby girl was found buried alive in Uttar Pradesh, India, and is fighting for survival in a hospital. The baby was discovered by a shepherd who heard her cries coming from under a mound of earth. The incident is attributed to India's preference for sons, which has led to a skewed gender ratio. The baby is being treated in a neonatal intensive care unit, but her condition has deteriorated due to an infection. This is not an isolated incident, as cases of female infanticide are common in India due to the societal preference for sons. Campaigners say that millions of female children have been lost to foeticide and infanticide over the years.

Hundreds of thousands of workers in France went on strike on Thursday to protest against budget cuts proposed by the government. The strike, called by trade unions, saw around 800,000 people participate in protests across the country, with the interior ministry estimating 500,000 attendees. The protests were largely peaceful, but scuffles broke out in some cities, including Lyon and Nantes, and in Paris, where police used tear gas to disperse crowds. The strike was in response to the government's plans to cut public spending, with unions demanding more investment in public services and higher taxes on the wealthy. The protests come as the new Prime Minister, Sébastien Lecornu, attempts to navigate a hung parliament and craft a budget that will be acceptable to a majority of MPs.

The widow of Alexei Navalny, a prominent Russian opposition leader, claims that her husband was poisoned before his death in a Russian prison, citing lab tests conducted by two independent laboratories abroad. Navalny died in February 2024 while serving a 19-year sentence in an Arctic penal colony. His widow, Yulia Navalnaya, released a video statement alleging that Navalny was poisoned, but the laboratories have not released their findings due to 'political considerations.' Russian authorities have denied any involvement in Navalny's death and claimed that he died from a combination of 'a dozen different diseases.' Navalny had previously been poisoned with the Novichok nerve agent in 2020. Yulia Navalnaya has blamed President Vladimir Putin for her husband's death, while the Kremlin has denied any involvement.

China and the Philippines clashed near the disputed Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea, with both countries accusing each other of aggressive actions. The incident involved a collision between Chinese and Philippine ships, with the Philippines reporting damage and injuries. The dispute is part of a broader territorial conflict in the South China Sea, where China claims most of the territory. The US and other countries have expressed support for the Philippines and concern over China's actions.

A 3,000-year-old gold bracelet belonging to King Amenemope has gone missing from the Egyptian Museum in Cairo. The bracelet was last seen in a restoration laboratory, and an internal investigation has been launched. The loss was detected during an inventory check, and antiquities units across Egypt have been alerted. The disappearance comes just weeks before the opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum, which is expected to be a major cultural milestone. The incident is part of a larger issue of artifact theft and smuggling, with recent cases including the theft of gold samples from Paris's Natural History Museum and the return of 25 stolen artifacts to Egypt from the United States.

Scientists have discovered prehistoric insects preserved in amber in South America, specifically in Ecuador, dating back 112 million years. The findings provide a unique glimpse into life on Earth during the Cretaceous period when flowering plants were diversifying. The discovery includes various arthropods such as beetles, flies, ants, and wasps, and sheds light on the evolving interactions between these insects and flowering plants. The amber was found in a sandstone quarry on the edge of the Amazon basin and contained pollen, tree leaves, and ancient insects. The study suggests that the area was once a humid, resinous forest ecosystem with species of ferns and conifers that no longer exist in the region.

Christian Brueckner, the prime suspect in the 2007 disappearance of Madeleine McCann, has been released from a German prison after serving a seven-year sentence for an unrelated rape case. Brueckner, a convicted rapist with multiple prior convictions for sexual offenses, was identified by German prosecutors as the prime suspect in McCann's disappearance in 2020. Despite being fitted with an electronic ankle tag upon release, his whereabouts post-release are unknown. The case highlights differences between the German and UK legal systems, with German prosecutors requiring more direct evidence to charge Brueckner. British investigators had hoped to question Brueckner before his release but were declined an interview.

A study by the Yale School of Public Health's Humanitarian Research Lab found that Russia has been forcibly reeducating thousands of abducted Ukrainian children in at least 210 facilities across Russia and occupied Ukraine. The children are being indoctrinated with pro-Russian narratives and some are even being trained in combat and military equipment production. Ukraine's government reports that over 19,500 children have been abducted, with only about 1,600 returned. The International Criminal Court has issued arrest warrants for Russian President Vladimir Putin and children's rights commissioner Maria Lvova-Belova for war crimes related to the abduction and transfer of Ukrainian children.

The article discusses the controversy surrounding the death of conservative activist Charlie Kirk and the subsequent crackdown on critics who celebrated or mocked his death. The Trump administration has vowed to address federal employees who mock or celebrate Kirk's death, and Attorney General Pam Bondi has suggested that people who post 'hate speech' should be 'shut down.' Legal experts say this sets a dangerous precedent for free speech, as the First Amendment protects most forms of hateful speech. The article also discusses the pre-emption of Jimmy Kimmel's show after he made comments about Kirk's alleged killer, and how this move has been criticized as government censorship. Experts warn that the administration's actions could lead to the suppression of lawful expression and the erosion of free speech.

A United Nations commission has concluded that Israel is committing genocide against Palestinians in Gaza. The commission, established by the U.N. Human Rights Council in 2021, found 'reasonable grounds' that Israeli authorities and security forces have committed acts of genocide, including killing, causing harm, and imposing measures to prevent births. The commission's report calls on Israel to 'immediately end the commission of genocide' and implement a permanent ceasefire, and urges other U.N. member states to prevent the commission of genocide. Israeli officials have dismissed the report as 'fake' and based on 'Hamas falsehoods.' The report's findings are supported by some human rights groups and scholars, who have previously accused Israel of committing genocide against Palestinians in Gaza.

President Trump arrived in London for a historic second official state visit to the UK, hosted by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. The visit comes at an awkward time for both leaders, with Starmer facing criticism for firing his ambassador to the US, Peter Mandelson, over revelations about his past friendship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The visit is also taking place amid growing divisions in the UK, with a recent far-right rally drawing over 110,000 people. Trump's administration is ideologically aligned with the rally's themes of free speech and nationalist immigration policies, making discussions with Starmer diplomatically challenging.

Apple's iPhone 17 series was launched globally, with positive initial demand reported in China and Singapore. The iPhone 17 base model outperformed expectations due to unchanged pricing despite upgrades. However, Apple faces challenges in China, where it has lost market share to local competitors. The company is also under pressure to deliver on its artificial intelligence plans, with critics saying it has 'dropped the ball' in the past. Analysts believe Apple needs to catch up in AI, but currently has enough runway to cope.

ByteDance's valuation has risen to $400 billion, driven by growing investor confidence in the company's potential and China's tech capabilities. The increase follows a framework agreement between Washington and Beijing on TikTok's future in the U.S. Existing shareholders are not planning to sell, and the company's quarterly performance has been strong, particularly outside the U.S. The rising valuation reflects broader optimism in Chinese tech companies, with investors showing renewed interest in the sector.

Nvidia, now a $4.28 trillion chipmaker at the center of the AI boom, is deploying its cash to cement its position in the industry. The company announced a $5 billion investment in Intel, spent nearly $1 billion to hire an AI startup CEO and license its technology, and unveiled a $15 billion investment in the UK. Nvidia's market capitalization has grown significantly since 2023, and it continues to take stakes in and partner with other AI firms. The article also touches on other market news, including a record high for the S&P 500 and Russell 2000, and the potential impact of a Fed rate cut on bank stocks.

Nvidia, now valued at $4.28 trillion, is strategically deploying its vast resources to maintain its dominance in the AI chip market. The company announced a $5 billion investment in Intel, hired the CEO of AI startup Enfabrica for over $900 million, and invested £11 billion in the UK. Nvidia's actions are seen as efforts to cement its position as a market leader in the AI hardware space. The article also touches on other market news, including record highs for the S&P 500 and Russell 2000, and the Trump administration's Supreme Court case regarding the firing of Fed Governor Lisa Cook.

European stock markets are expected to open mixed on Friday as investors await a phone call between US President Donald Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping, digesting recent economic data and central bank decisions. The Federal Reserve cut interest rates on Wednesday, while the Bank of England held rates steady. Other economic data out on Friday includes German PPI, UK retail sales, and French business confidence updates. Overnight, Asian stocks traded mostly higher after the Bank of Japan kept interest rates unchanged, and US stock futures were flat after hitting all-time highs on Thursday.

Germany was expected to be Europe's growth driver due to its significant fiscal changes and investment pledges, but economists are now questioning whether this will happen. The country amended its debt brake rule and created a 500 billion euro infrastructure and climate investment fund, but actual spending has been slower than expected. Economists are revising their growth projections downward, with some expecting a minimal boost to the euro zone economy. Factors such as interest rate cuts, growth in Spain, and tariffs in the US will also impact euro zone growth.

The stock market saw a winning session on Thursday, with major indexes reaching new records following the Federal Reserve's decision to cut interest rates. The Dow Jones Industrial Average, S&P 500, and Nasdaq 100 all rose, with the small-cap focused Russell 2000 surging 2.5% to end at a record high. Investors reacted positively to the Fed's move, with earnings numbers also supporting the market. However, not all stocks performed well, with Lennar shares dropping 3% after the homebuilder's earnings report disappointed investors. In after-hours trading, FedEx shares rose 5.8% on a better-than-expected earnings report, while Scholastic fell 11% after posting a wider-than-expected loss.

U.S. President Donald Trump's state visit to the U.K. coincided with $204 billion in investment pledges from American corporations. The investments, focused on AI and data center development, were made by companies such as Microsoft, Nvidia, and Alphabet. While the influx of capital is expected to boost the U.K. economy, experts caution that it may not be enough to rapidly reignite economic growth. The investments are also accompanied by challenges, including uncertainty around who will ultimately benefit and concerns about the U.K.'s ability to capture shareholder value from innovation. A bilateral deal aimed at simplifying nuclear power station buildouts was also announced.

Hamas has warned that Israel's ground incursion into Gaza City will end any hope of recovering Israeli hostages, as pressure mounts on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu from families of the hostages. The Israeli military has surrounded Gaza City, prompting Palestinians to flee south. The European Union has proposed sanctions against Israel, and a UN report has accused Israel of committing genocide, which Israel denies. The humanitarian crisis in Gaza is deepening, with over 65,000 Palestinians killed since October 7, 2023, and parts of Gaza declared under famine.

CNN's Jake Tapper reveals new information regarding the suspension of 'Jimmy Kimmel Live' from ABC's air, discussing the business practices involved and the Trump administration's role. The suspension occurred after FCC Chairman Brendan Carr threatened action against Disney due to Kimmel's comments about Charlie Kirk's murder. The article touches on various related topics, including Trump's stance on negative media coverage and free speech concerns.

Jimmy Kimmel's show was suspended by Disney after he made comments about Charlie Kirk's suspected killer and Trump's supporters, drawing backlash from conservatives and threats from FCC chair Brendan Carr to pull ABC's broadcast licenses. Disney executives, including CEO Bob Iger and Co-chairman Dana Walden, decided to preempt the show to protect Kimmel and the Disney brand. The suspension has raised concerns about the safety of Disney employees and advertisers, and the future of the show remains uncertain.

Late-night hosts Jon Stewart and Stephen Colbert defended Jimmy Kimmel and free speech after ABC indefinitely suspended 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!' due to controversy over Kimmel's comments about the investigation into Charlie Kirk's suspected killer. The suspension was reportedly influenced by pressure from FCC Chairman Brendan Carr and ABC affiliates. Donald Trump praised ABC's decision and suggested that networks' broadcast licenses could be revoked for airing negative information about him. The incident has sparked debates about free speech and censorship.

The viral Dubai chocolate trend has inspired a new wave of mooncakes in Asia, with brands incorporating pistachio flavors and textures into traditional mooncake recipes. Hong Kong-based Conspiracy Chocolate has developed a pistachio mooncake inspired by Dubai-based FIX Dessert's knafeh-filled chocolate bar. Other brands, such as Soulgood Bakery and Four Seasons Hotel Singapore, are also offering Dubai chocolate-inspired mooncakes. The trend is driven by consumer demand for novelty and innovation in the billion-dollar mooncake industry. While traditional mooncakes remain popular, new flavors and products are generating excitement and attracting younger consumers. However, the trend has also led to concerns about counterfeit products and rising pistachio prices.

Human remains believed to be Travis Decker, a Washington state man accused of killing his three daughters, have been found in a remote wooded area south of Leavenworth, Washington. Decker was wanted for murder after his daughters were reported missing and then found dead at an abandoned campsite in the Washington Cascades. The remains were discovered after a months-long manhunt involving local, state, and federal officials. DNA samples obtained from plastic bags and cable ties found near the daughters' bodies matched Decker's profile, and authorities believe he likely escaped on foot after leaving behind his truck.

Ecuador's President Daniel Noboa has declared a 60-day state of emergency in seven provinces due to violent protests against the government's removal of a $1.1 billion diesel subsidy. The protests began after the government announced the elimination of the subsidy, which led to a surge in diesel prices from $1.80 to $2.80 per gallon. The government argues that the subsidy was not effectively reaching the poor and instead benefited higher-income individuals and businesses. The state of emergency mobilizes armed forces and national police to maintain public order and prevent disruptions to public services. Despite the unrest, the US State Department has not adjusted its travel advisory status for Ecuador.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez is under fire for alleged comments suggesting the use of nuclear weapons against Israel. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accused Sanchez of making a 'blatant genocidal threat' against the Jewish state. Sanchez's comments were made in a speech where he highlighted Spain's limitations in stopping Israel's actions. The Spanish government denied the allegations, calling them 'false and slanderous.' The controversy has sparked outrage among Israelis and Spaniards, with some accusing Sanchez of antisemitism. The incident has strained relations between Spain and Israel, with Spain's foreign ministry reaffirming its support for a two-state solution.

Rep. Elise Stefanik has requested Attorney General Pam Bondi to investigate Doctors Without Borders (MSF) over alleged ties to Hamas propaganda. Stefanik accuses MSF of amplifying Hamas-aligned disinformation and undermining the U.S.-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation's efforts. She cites MSF's failure to reference hostages held by Hamas and its staff's extremist actions and rhetoric as evidence. Stefanik argues that MSF's actions may be unlawful under the Anti-Terrorism Act and potentially violate its nonprofit status. MSF has not responded to the allegations.

The article discusses the reaction to Charlie Kirk's assassination, with supporters and allies praising him as a friend of Israel and condemning false claims and conspiracy theories spread on social media. Kirk was known for his strong support of Israel and his advocacy for Jewish-Christian values. Israeli leaders and Jewish community figures have eulogized him as a champion of freedom and a defender of Israel.

President Donald Trump attended a state dinner at Windsor Castle with King Charles III and praised the "special relationship" between the US and UK. Trump highlighted the historical ties between the two nations and referenced Winston Churchill's phrase "special relationship." He also touched on the issue of free speech, noting that the British Empire had laid the foundations for law, liberty, and individual rights in many places, including America. The UK government has faced criticism for its online safety laws and other free speech issues, which have been a point of contention between the US and UK.

The US has designated four Iran-backed militias in Iraq as Foreign Terrorist Organizations, escalating tensions with Iran. The groups, Harakat al-Nujaba, Kata'ib Sayyid al-Shuhada, Harakat Ansar Allah al-Awfiya, and Kata'ib al-Imam Ali, are believed to be responsible for hundreds of attacks in Iraq, Syria, and Jordan, including the killing of three US service members in January 2024. The designation is seen as a continuation of the Trump administration's campaign against Iran-backed militias and is expected to increase pressure on Tehran.

At least 16 people have been killed in Israeli attacks on Gaza, with the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) launching a ground assault on Gaza City. The attacks have caused widespread condemnation, with the UK Foreign Secretary calling the operation 'utterly reckless and appalling.' Meanwhile, 10 critically ill children from Gaza have arrived in the UK for NHS treatment. A coalition of aid groups has urged the international community to do more to stop Israel's attacks, which they say have caused 'an unprecedented humanitarian catastrophe.' The IDF has warned civilians to evacuate ahead of the new offensive, but many remain in crowded tent camps in Gaza City.

FBI Director Kash Patel clashed with Democratic representatives during a House Judiciary Committee hearing, where he was questioned about his stance on the Jeffrey Epstein case. Patel shouted at representatives, including Jamie Raskin and Pramila Jayapal, who pressed him on the matter. The hearing was the second consecutive day Patel faced tough questioning from lawmakers, with Democrats seeking clarity on his views regarding Epstein's victims and potential connections to high-profile individuals. US President Donald Trump, who has faced scrutiny over his ties to Epstein, has denied any impropriety.

Israeli Minister Bezalel Smotrich has suggested that Gaza could be redeveloped into a 'real estate bonanza', sparking controversy and condemnation from various parties. Smotrich's comments echo similar remarks made by Donald Trump earlier this year. The Israeli government's ongoing offensive in Gaza has resulted in significant loss of life and displacement of people, prompting widespread international criticism. The UK is expected to announce its recognition of a Palestinian state soon, amid growing pressure to address the escalating conflict.

The defence of the Ukrainian city of Pokrovsk is under threat as Russian forces attempt to encircle and squeeze out the defenders. The city is a key logistics hub and its capture would severely hamper Ukrainian supply lines. Russian forces are also advancing near Kupyansk in northeast Ukraine, using unconventional tactics such as moving personnel through a pipeline. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has called on Donald Trump to take a clear position on sanctions against Russia and security guarantees for Ukraine.

The article discusses the mounting pressure on UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer to raise Israel's ongoing Gaza offensive with US President Donald Trump during his state visit to the UK. A UN Commission has accused Israel of committing genocide in Gaza, and Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey has called on Starmer to 'press' Trump to take action. Labour MP Rosena Allin-Khan has also urged Starmer to make the situation in Gaza a 'top priority' during his meeting with Trump. The situation in Gaza remains dire, with thousands of families still in tent camps in Gaza City despite the Israeli ground offensive.

Disney pulled Jimmy Kimmel's show 'Jimmy Kimmel Live' after pressure from conservatives and threats from advertisers and employees. The decision was made due to a monologue Kimmel planned to deliver, which was deemed potentially inflammatory. The move sparked controversy and backlash from Democrats, actors, and comedians, who saw it as a threat to free speech. The incident highlights the complex relationships between television networks, local affiliates, and regulatory bodies like the FCC.

The article discusses President Trump's state visit to Britain, where he was received with pomp and ceremony by King Charles III and Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Despite the elaborate display, the visit was more about flattering Trump than achieving policy breakthroughs. Trump did not soften his stance on trade or security issues, and the visit did not yield significant gains for Britain. The article highlights the complexities of the Trump-Starmer relationship and the challenges of navigating diplomatic relations with a president known for his unpredictable behavior.

Jimmy Kimmel has emerged as a prominent adversary of the American right after his comments on the fatal shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk led to the suspension of his late-night show on ABC. Kimmel has evolved from a satirist who mocked social progressivism to a dependable host of major awards shows. The article provides a timeline of Kimmel's career, highlighting key moments such as his early days on 'The Man Show', his transition to 'Jimmy Kimmel Live!', and his increasing involvement in politics. The suspension of his show has sparked polarized reactions, with critics expressing glee and supporters raising concerns about censorship.

The article discusses how Chinese leader Xi Jinping is using a potential deal to sell TikTok's American operations as a bargaining chip to improve relations with the US and gain concessions on tariffs, technology, and Taiwan. Xi and US President Trump are expected to speak by phone to discuss the deal, which could pave the way for a potential summit between the two leaders. Chinese officials see TikTok as an expendable concession and are willing to make deals to improve the overall atmosphere and gain leverage in negotiations.

The article discusses the upcoming phone call between President Trump and China's leader Xi Jinping to finalize a deal regarding TikTok. The deal aims to separate the app from its Chinese owner ByteDance to avoid a ban in the US. The Trump administration has been negotiating with ByteDance to bring in new US investors and dilute Chinese ownership. The deal is expected to be confirmed on Friday, and if successful, it would be a significant development in the ongoing saga surrounding TikTok's future in the US.

President Trump has escalated his attack on critical speech by suggesting that regulators should revoke the licenses of broadcasters that air negative coverage or commentary about him. Trump claimed that the networks are 'an arm of the Democrat party' and are out to get him. The comments are part of a coordinated effort by the Trump administration to silence criticism and dissent, following the assassination of right-wing activist Charlie Kirk. The administration has also targeted liberal groups, monitored online speech, and threatened to designate certain groups as domestic terrorists. Democrats and others have warned that these actions amount to a crackdown on opposing views and infringe on the right to free speech.

China's holdings of US Treasury bonds have dropped to a near 17-year low, sparking speculation about where the country is redirecting its investments. Analysts suggest that China's central bank may be shifting towards European assets and gold due to concerns over the US dollar and rising tensions between the US and China. China's US Treasury holdings fell to US$730.7 billion in July, a 45% decline from the record US$1.32 trillion in November 2013. Economists from Standard Chartered and Natixis believe that China may be diversifying its foreign exchange reserves into European currencies such as the euro, British pound, and Swiss franc. The decline in China's Treasury holdings is attributed to concerns over the sustainability of US debt and the weaponisation of the US dollar.

The article examines the impact of US tariffs on different Chinese regions during the ongoing trade war. While China's overall exports to the US dropped by 15.5% in the first eight months of 2025, the effect varies significantly across provinces. Some regions, particularly those on the eastern coastline like Guangdong, Zhejiang, and Shanghai, have been heavily affected due to their high exposure to the US market. In contrast, other provinces have seen their exports to the US surge. The article provides a regional-level overview based on research by CIB Research, highlighting which areas are most vulnerable and how local governments and companies are adapting to the tariffs.

Top leaders from Southeast Asia attended China's military parade in Beijing, showcasing their support for China and sending a message to the US. Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto initially planned to cancel his trip due to protests at home but ultimately attended after receiving an 'urgent request' from China. The attendance of Southeast Asian leaders was seen as a reminder to Washington that they have alternatives. The event highlighted China's rising military strength and growing global influence, with leaders such as Russian President Vladimir Putin also in attendance.

The article discusses the factors influencing the voting decisions of young Americans in the 2024 US presidential election. Young voters are disillusioned with the current state of the economy and are looking for a leader who can bring about meaningful change. The article highlights the differences between the two main candidates, Donald Trump and Kamala Harris, and their appeal to young voters. According to opinion polls, Kamala Harris has a significant lead over Trump among young voters. The article also explores the economic concerns of young voters, including high inflation, expensive education, and unaffordable housing. The candidates' economic policies are also discussed, with Harris proposing grants for first-time homebuyers and Trump advocating for tariffs on Chinese imports.

The article discusses the lasting impact of the 1947 India-Pakistan Partition on the lives of people who lived through it and their descendants. The Partition resulted in one of the largest mass migrations in human history, with over 15 million people displaced and at least one million killed. The article highlights the stories of two individuals, Vikram Kalra and Reena Varma, who were forced to flee their homes in Lahore and Rawalpindi, respectively, and have been unable to return. The article also touches on the ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan, particularly over the disputed region of Kashmir, and how the Partition continues to shape the geopolitics of the region. The author notes that survivors of the Partition have different perspectives on the event, with some viewing it as an unfortunate break-up of the motherland and others seeing it as a liberation from Hindu rule.

Malaysia is experiencing a resurgence in train travel, with improved rail services and infrastructure drawing commuters, adventurers, and nostalgia seekers. The Keretapi Tanah Melayu (KTM) train operator has upgraded its services, including the Electric Train Service (ETS) and the Komuter Utara (Northern Shuttle) service, making rail travel more reliable and efficient. The article highlights the benefits of train travel, including the scenic routes, cultural experiences, and connectivity to rural areas. The KTM's network stretches from Singapore to the Thai border, and plans are underway to extend the ETS to Johor Bahru by 2025. The article also notes that ridership for intercity rail services has more than doubled in the past decade, while urban commuter ridership has declined due to maintenance and upgrading work.

The article discusses the remaining comfort women survivors in Asia, 80 years after being forced into providing sexual services to Japanese Imperial Army troops during World War II. The survivors, mostly in their 90s, continue to demand closure and justice. The issue remains a contentious topic between South Korea and Japan, with tensions rising and falling over the years. The article highlights the stories of individual survivors, the historical context, and the ongoing efforts to seek justice and recognition.

The Indonesian island of Bali has been hit by severe flash flooding, killing at least 18 people and prompting the governor to issue a ban on new hotels and restaurants being built on productive land, especially rice fields. Environmental activists have long warned about the impacts of mass tourism on the island, including increased flooding and natural disasters. The ban is part of a 100-year plan to protect Bali's agricultural land and mitigate the effects of climate change. The move follows a warning from Indonesia's meteorology and climate agency about an extreme rainy season and a worsening waste crisis that has exacerbated flooding in several regions.

China has issued a warning to Papua New Guinea (PNG) not to sign a defence treaty with Australia, stating that such a treaty should not restrict PNG's ability to cooperate with other countries. The warning comes after Australia's Prime Minister Anthony Albanese failed to secure a defence pact with PNG during his visit to Port Moresby. The proposed treaty is expected to establish joint defence arrangements between Australia and PNG in the event of a military attack. However, several prominent ex-military figures and politicians in PNG have expressed concerns that the treaty could compromise the country's independence and sovereignty. They argue that PNG should maintain its independence and not be aligned with any particular country, and that the treaty should contain safeguards to protect PNG's sovereignty.

Thousands are expected to join a mass protest in Manila on Sunday amid growing public anger over alleged corruption in government-funded flood control projects in the Philippines. The 'Trillion Peso March' coincides with the anniversary of the 1972 martial law declaration and is backed by civil society and church organizations. President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr, son of the former dictator Ferdinand Marcos, has expressed support for the protests, citing public anger over corruption. The demonstration is part of a broader regional trend of youth-led movements against government corruption and privilege.

The article discusses the severe hunger crisis in South Sudan, where 2.3 million children under 5 require treatment for acute malnutrition due to renewed conflict, reduced humanitarian assistance, corruption, and climate change. The crisis is exacerbated by funding cuts, violence hampering aid delivery, and poor governance. The article highlights the struggles of malnourished children and their families, as well as the efforts of aid organizations to respond to the crisis.

Iran has withdrawn a resolution that prohibited attacks on nuclear facilities at the annual gathering of the U.N. nuclear watchdog's member nations, following heavy lobbying by the U.S. The resolution, co-sponsored by China, Russia, and other countries, was withdrawn at the last minute. The U.S. had threatened to reduce funding to the International Atomic Energy Agency if the resolution was adopted and if it led to curtailing Israel's rights within the agency.

Ukraine is seeking Western investment in its defense industry to enhance its ability to repel Russian aggression. With NATO membership unlikely, Ukraine's allies are considering an alternative strategy: investing billions in Ukraine's weapons industry to produce cutting-edge military technology, including drones. Ukraine's defense industry has made significant advancements, meeting nearly 60% of its army's needs, up from 10% at the start of Russia's full-scale invasion. Ukrainian companies are developing innovative technologies, such as drones that can evade Russian jamming devices and armored vehicles designed to withstand drone strikes. European countries are eager to invest, attracted by Ukraine's battle-tested systems, low production costs, and rapid production capabilities. Ukraine aims to triple its weapons production and become less reliant on Western partners.