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The Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a paramilitary group in Sudan, has claimed to have taken control of the western city of el-Fasher, a key stronghold of the Sudanese army in the Darfur region. The city has been under siege for 18 months, with hundreds of thousands of people trapped and facing severe humanitarian crisis. The RSF's capture of el-Fasher would be a significant blow to the Sudanese army, marking a turning point in the civil war that has ravaged the country since 2023. The conflict has resulted in over 150,000 deaths and 12 million displaced people. The UN has expressed alarm at the situation, citing widespread human rights abuses and calling for an immediate ceasefire.

At least four people have been killed in protests in Cameroon's economic capital, Douala, as supporters of opposition presidential candidate Issa Tchiroma Bakary defied a ban to hold demonstrations ahead of the official announcement of results in a highly-contested presidential election. The protests, which also took place in other cities, including Garoua, were sparked by Bakary's claims that he won the election held on October 12, challenging incumbent President Paul Biya's 43-year hold on power. The ruling CPDM party has dismissed Bakary's claims, and authorities have banned gatherings until Monday, when Cameroon's constitutional council is set to announce the results.

Three Chinese nationals have been arrested in Georgia for attempting to buy 2kg of uranium on the black market for $400,000. The group planned to transport the nuclear material to China via Russia. Georgian security services foiled the plot, and the suspects have been placed in custody. The incident highlights concerns over nuclear security in Georgia, a former Soviet nation with a history of uranium smuggling.

India and China have resumed direct flights after a five-year hiatus, marking a significant step in the normalization of their bilateral relations. The resumption of flights follows a series of diplomatic efforts, including a landmark agreement on border patrols and high-level visits between the two countries. The first flight, operated by IndiGo, landed in Guangzhou, China, carrying around 180 passengers. The move is expected to facilitate people-to-people contact and boost trade and economic ties between the two nations. The decision comes after a period of heightened tensions following a deadly clash in a disputed Himalayan border area and the COVID-19 pandemic, which had led to the suspension of direct flights in 2020.

The article reports on the rising threat of the Islamic State (IS) in north-eastern Syria, where Kurdish officials say the group is regrouping and increasing its attacks. The article visits a jail in Al Hasakah where IS suspects are held, including British nationals who have been stripped of their citizenship. The conditions in the jail are harsh, with detainees suffering from tuberculosis and being held indefinitely without trial. The article also visits a camp where the wives and children of IS fighters are detained, with human rights groups criticizing the conditions as 'collective punishment' and a 'war crime'. The Kurds are left holding thousands of IS fighters and their family members, with many countries, including the UK, reluctant to repatriate their citizens.

The King of Jordan, Abdullah II, has stated that international troops will be unwilling to enforce peace in Gaza under the Trump ceasefire plan. The plan involves Arab states and international partners committing stabilization forces to train and support Palestinian police forces in Gaza. King Abdullah expressed concerns that if the mandate of these forces is peace enforcement, no country will be willing to participate. He emphasized Jordan's willingness to train Palestinian security forces but not to engage in peace enforcement. The article also highlights the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, with thousands of Gazans awaiting medical evacuation, and quotes from Queen Rania criticizing the international community's response to the conflict and praising President Trump's efforts to broker a ceasefire.

Three people were killed and at least 32 others injured in a Russian air attack on Ukraine's capital Kyiv. The attack damaged two high-rise residential buildings, with six children among the injured. This latest bombardment comes as Moscow has stepped up attacks on civilian targets and energy infrastructure ahead of winter. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has called on allies to supply long-range weapons to continue striking Russia's military production plants and oil facilities. Meanwhile, Russia conducted a test of an experimental nuclear-powered missile and claimed to be close to a diplomatic solution to end the war.

California Governor Gavin Newsom is considering a run for US president in 2028, according to an interview with CBS News Sunday Morning. Newsom admitted that he would give 'serious thought' to a White House bid after the 2026 midterms. His potential candidacy comes a day after former Vice-President Kamala Harris expressed similar intentions, suggesting that a woman could be president and possibly hinting at her own candidacy. Newsom has gained national prominence as a leader of the resistance to President Donald Trump. The announcement from Newsom and Harris highlights the growing interest in the 2028 presidential election.

The Chinese job market is showing signs of growth in certain sectors, particularly in advanced manufacturing and 'modern services', despite an overall sluggish economy. A report by online recruitment platform Zhaopin found that new materials, pet care, and elderly care led the way in job creation in the third quarter. Job postings in the new materials sector rose by 66.7% year-on-year, while pet care saw a 43.7% increase, driven by rising demand for veterinarians and pet groomers. The growth is attributed to China's industrial upgrading and consumption shifts, with advanced manufacturing driving demand for high-end technical talent and modern services expanding job opportunities. However, sentiment remains muted due to reports of lay-offs and pay cuts, with China's urban unemployment rate remaining stable at 5.2% in September.

Hong Kong health authorities have screened over 450 residents in the Diamond Hill area after reporting the first local case of chikungunya fever, and found no suspected cases. The Centre for Health Protection controller, Dr Edwin Tsui Lok-kin, urged residents with mild symptoms to seek medical advice and inform the authorities. The first local case, an 82-year-old woman, had no travel record during the incubation period and is now hospitalised in a stable condition. Authorities are taking proactive measures to curb the spread of the disease, including inspecting three schools in the neighbourhood and planning a citywide mosquito control meeting.

The Japanese government, led by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, plans to ease rules on exporting weapons abroad amid rising global security tensions. Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi announced the move, citing the need to promote defence equipment exports in the face of the harshest international security environment since World War II. The revisions will be made to the three principles guiding defence equipment exports, and Japan's broader security tenets will also be updated. The decision has the support of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party's coalition partner, the Japan Innovation Party.

The Philippines is in talks with South Korea's leading aircraft manufacturer, Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI), to buy more fighter jets, following a successful aerial show featuring the KF-21 Boramae multirole fighter jet. KAI has already sold FA-50 aircraft to the Philippines and is committed to supporting the Philippine Air Force. The KF-21 Boramae is expected to rival China's J10 and FC31 fighters in various markets.

The South China Morning Post is undergoing a major structural overhaul, appointing Tammy Tam as publisher to oversee both editorial and business operations. Chow Chung-yan will take over as editor-in-chief, while CEO Catherine So will leave the Post after 3½ years. The changes aim to ensure editorial independence and excellence while aligning the news product with business operations.

The article summarizes five news stories from the previous weekend, including a preliminary deal between the US and China, a crisis in China's universities regarding outdated STEM courses, and Boeing's appointment of a new China business lead. The US-China deal was discussed in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, between US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Chinese Vice-Premier He Lifeng. The STEM crisis in China is attributed to outdated university courses that are wasting talent. Boeing has appointed a Mandarin-speaking ex-White House adviser to lead its China business, given its significant operations in the country.

Antonio Gates, a Hall of Fame tight end, allegedly hosted and participated in a rigged Miami poker game organized by Curtis Meeks, who was indicted by federal prosecutors as part of a massive gambling scandal that rocked the NBA. The report follows a previous report by The Post where a purported victim claimed to have been scammed of nearly $1 million. Gates has not publicly commented on the report, and it's unclear if his alleged involvement is related to the rigged poker scheme being probed by federal prosecutors.

A 30-year-old college financial aid advisor, Kidane Haile, has been indicted for allegedly strangling his 29-year-old girlfriend, Kathleen 'Katie' Carrig, and setting fire to their upstate New York home while she and their 4-day-old son, Noah, were inside. Both Carrig and Noah were pronounced dead at the scene. Haile was rescued from the burning home and is currently being held without bail on one count of second-degree murder. Additional charges are expected as the investigation continues.

A manager at the Laugh Factory comedy club in Chicago was arrested by federal agents outside the club, sparking a physical altercation and controversy. Nathan Griffin, the night manager, was detained for allegedly obstructing a federal immigration operation. His mother, Elaine Plybon, witnessed the arrest and claimed that her son was 'kidnapped' by Border Patrol agents. A viral video of the incident shows Griffin being taken to the ground and arrested as onlookers scream at the agents to stop. The Border Patrol spokesperson stated that Griffin attempted to impede and obstruct federal officers and shut the door of their car on an agent's leg. Griffin's family has launched a GoFundMe campaign to raise money for his legal funds, which has raised over $20,000. Griffin is a natural-born American citizen and is facing a federal assault charge that could carry 8 years in prison if convicted.

LSU has fired head football coach Brian Kelly amid a disappointing season. The decision was made official on Sunday night after a 34-14 loss to Texas A&M, the Tigers' third defeat in their last four games. Associate head coach Frank Wilson will serve as interim head coach for the remainder of the season. LSU athletic director Scott Woodward cited the lack of success at the level demanded by LSU as the reason for the change. Kelly's four-year tenure at LSU ended with a 34-14 record, including a SEC West Division title in his first season. The terms of Kelly's separation, including a reported $54 million buyout, are still being negotiated.

A 24-year-old Honduran national, Josué Castro Rivera, was fatally struck by a vehicle while fleeing Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers in Virginia. Rivera was on his way to his gardening job when ICE officers pulled over his vehicle and tried to detain him and three other passengers. He bolted on foot and attempted to cross Interstate 264 in Norfolk, where he was hit by a 2002 Ford pickup. Rivera's family plans to raise money to send his body back to Honduras for a funeral, blasting his death as an 'injustice.' The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) said the passengers were detained for allegedly living in the country without legal permission and that Rivera 'resisted heavily and fled.' The incident has triggered outrage and calls for additional investigations, with the DHS blaming Rivera's death on 'propaganda and misinformation about ICE's mission.'

The article criticizes Zohran Mamdani's education policies, specifically his proposal to replace mayoral control with 'co-governance' in New York City schools. The author argues that mayoral control has led to significant improvements in the city's education system, including increased graduation rates and better reading outcomes. Mamdani's plan, according to the author, would undermine accountability and lead to chaos. The article highlights the success of mayoral control in NYC compared to other large districts like Los Angeles and Houston.

After two decades of left-wing governance, Bolivia has shifted towards right-wing politics with Rodrigo Paz winning the presidential election in a run-off. The article discusses the implications of this change and questions the extent of the shift.

The article discusses the potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to bridge the economic gap between the rich and poor worlds. It highlights how AI tools like ChatGPT can provide access to quality education and information, even in remote and underdeveloped areas. The article uses the example of an 18-year-old student in Uganda who used ChatGPT to get help with his chemistry homework. While AI promises a level playing field, the article notes that past technologies have also made similar promises, raising questions about the actual impact of AI on global economic disparities.

The article discusses the counterintuitive economics of smoking, highlighting how cigarette manufacturers have seen significant profits despite declining smoking rates. The share prices of American tobacco companies have outperformed the tech-heavy Nasdaq index, with a 65% return on investment in 2024. This is attributed to the increasing operating margin on cigarette sales, which has grown from 50% to 60% in recent years. The article notes that cigarette and cigar makers are expected to make $22 billion in operating profit in the US this year.

The article discusses the importance of preserving the Amazon rainforest, highlighting its role in providing water for Brazil's agricultural sector and storing carbon. The UN's COP climate-change conference is to be held in Belém, at the mouth of the Amazon, where delegates can witness the devastating impact of deforestation firsthand. The article emphasizes the economic benefits of preserving the Amazon, suggesting that its destruction could have far-reaching consequences for the environment and the global economy.

The article discusses the recent sanctions imposed by the US on Russian oil firms Rosneft and Lukoil, and their subsidiaries, by President Donald Trump. The aim is to weaken Russia's economy and its ability to fund its war efforts. The sanctions have led to a 5% increase in oil prices. The article questions whether these sanctions will force Russian President Vladimir Putin into a peace agreement, given Trump's previous attempts to negotiate with him have been unsuccessful.

Russian missile and drone attacks on Ukraine killed at least four people and wounded 20, prompting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to call for additional Western air defense systems. The attacks occurred in Kyiv and the Dnipropetrovsk region, with Ukraine's air force reporting that Russia launched nine missiles and 62 drones. Zelenskyy met with European leaders in London to discuss ways to protect Ukraine's power grid and enhance its air defenses. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump discussed a potential summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin, but emphasized that it would not be a 'waste of time.'

Left-wing independent Catherine Connolly has won Ireland's presidential election with 63% of first-preference votes, defeating her center-right rival Heather Humphreys. Connolly, 68, is expected to be a champion for diversity and peace, and will be Ireland's 10th president and third female president. She garnered backing from left-leaning parties, including Sinn Féin, and has been outspoken in criticizing Israel over the war in Gaza. Humphreys conceded the election before vote counting finished, wishing Connolly well. The presidency is a largely ceremonial role in Ireland, with the president representing the country on the world stage and hosting visiting heads of state.

A 26-year-old Egyptian national has been arrested in connection with the attempted rape of a 26-year-old Brazilian woman on a train near Paris. The suspect admitted to an altercation with the victim but denied any sexual assault. The incident was captured on video by another passenger and went viral on social media, reigniting the debate over sexual violence on public transport in France, which has been rising in recent years. The suspect is expected to be handed preliminary charges of attempted rape and may face pre-trial detention. The victim was examined by a forensic doctor and put on five days of sick leave. The incident has highlighted the growing concern over sexual violence on public transport in France, with the number of victims increasing by 86% since 2016.

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries appeared on 'Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan' to discuss the ongoing government shutdown and the Democratic party's stance on various issues. Jeffries emphasized the need to reopen the government and address the rising costs of healthcare, housing, and other living expenses. He criticized the Republican party for their handling of the shutdown and their refusal to extend the Affordable Care Act tax credits, which he believes will lead to increased healthcare premiums for tens of millions of Americans. Jeffries also discussed the Democratic party's strategy for negotiating a bipartisan spending agreement and their efforts to protect the interests of federal employees and everyday Americans.

Authorities in Georgia have foiled a uranium smuggling plot involving three Chinese nationals who attempted to buy 4.4 pounds of uranium on the black market for $400,000. The suspects, who were detained in Tbilisi, allegedly planned to traffic the nuclear material to China via Russia. One of the suspects had overstayed his visa and was living in Georgia illegally, and had brought in experts from abroad to assist in acquiring the radioactive substance. The arrests follow a similar case in July, when Georgian authorities detained a foreign national and a Georgian citizen accused of planning to sell uranium worth $3 million.

The article discusses a new strategy to rebuild Gaza and weaken Hamas by dividing the Strip into two areas: one under Israeli control and the other under Hamas. The plan, dubbed the 'Disneyland strategy,' involves rebuilding areas under Israeli control to create a living example of peace and recovery, inspiring change in Hamas-controlled areas. Experts say this approach follows the 'clear, hold, build' model used in Iraq and Afghanistan. While some Gazans see this as a step towards freedom, others fear Hamas will remain a threat.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and US Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee met with the families of two American citizens, Itay Chen and Omer Neutra, whose bodies have been held hostage in Gaza since the October 7, 2023 attacks. The families expressed their frustration and grief over the delay in returning their loved ones' remains. Rubio assured them that the US is committed to securing their release. The families have been vocal advocates for the release of all hostages, living and deceased.

The US is seeking to strengthen partnerships with African nations to reduce its dependence on China for rare earth minerals, which are crucial for various industries including electronics, renewable energy, and national defense. China currently dominates the global rare earth market, accounting for 60% of extraction and 85% of processing capacity. The Trump administration is working to expand US presence in Africa's mining trade, with a focus on countries such as the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Tanzania, Angola, Malawi, and South Africa, which are expected to yield significant rare earth supplies. The US is investing in infrastructure projects, such as the Lobito Corridor, to facilitate the export of minerals from Africa to global markets.

Europe's leaders are grappling with the erosion of old guarantees such as open trade, cheap energy, and US security, forcing the continent to find its own stability in a time of deep uncertainty. European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen urges Europe to 'de-risk' sensitive areas and secure alternative supplies amid global trade uncertainties. Leaders emphasize the necessity for strategic autonomy, with investments in defence and technology, while acknowledging the illusion of complete decoupling.

The US experienced over 8,000 flight delays on October 26 due to air traffic controller absences amid the ongoing federal government shutdown. US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy reported that the FAA faced staffing issues at 22 locations on October 25, with additional shortages expected to cause more disruptions. Major airlines like Southwest, American, United, and Delta were affected, with significant percentages of their flights delayed. The shutdown has led to around 13,000 air traffic controllers and 50,000 Transportation Security Administration officers working without pay, potentially exacerbating the issue. The situation is being closely monitored as it may pressure lawmakers to resolve the budget deadlock that caused the shutdown.

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

Turkey has offered to help in the post-war reconstruction of Gaza, but Israel is opposed to Turkey's involvement. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has been critical of Israel and has stood by Hamas throughout the war. Turkey hopes to leverage its military, construction firms, and relationship with Hamas to play a role in Gaza's future.

British commentator Sami Hamdi was detained by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on October 25, 2025, while on a book tour in the United States. Hamdi's detention was reportedly due to his criticism of Israel, with conservative figures urging the Trump administration to expel him. The Council on American Islamic Relations (CAIR) called for his release, accusing the Trump administration of detaining him over his criticism of the Israeli government. Hamdi's visa was revoked, and he is in ICE custody pending removal.

The family of a young boy who was thrown from the 10th floor of the Tate Modern in 2019 has reported that he is making significant progress in his recovery six years after the attack. Despite suffering life-changing injuries, including a bleed on the brain and broken bones, the boy is now able to ride an adapted tricycle, make small jumps and runs, and swim. His attacker, Jonty Bravery, was convicted of attempted murder and jailed for 15 years. The boy's family has been supported by a GoFundMe page, which has raised almost half a million pounds to help with his rehabilitation. The boy will require another operation in early 2026, but his family is optimistic about his continued progress.

The city of Al Fashir in Sudan is on the verge of falling to the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) after 18 months of conflict. The RSF claims to have taken over the city and completed its military control of the Darfur region. However, Sudanese army soldiers and civilian resistance fighters deny the RSF's declaration of full victory, stating that battles are ongoing. The situation is dire, with around 5,000 people fleeing Al Fashir since October 23, facing mass arrests and extra-judicial killings. The telecommunications blackout in Al Fashir is a worrying sign, reminiscent of previous RSF takeovers.

Diphtheria, a vaccine-preventable disease, is resurging in several countries, including Somalia, Sudan, Yemen, and Chad, due to low vaccination coverage, weak surveillance, and frail health systems. The disease, which was once a major killer of children, has seen a significant increase in cases in recent years, particularly among displaced and vulnerable populations. In Somalia, the outbreak has grown steadily since 2023, with over 2,000 reported cases this year. The article highlights the story of Qurraisha Mukhtar, whose two youngest children died from diphtheria, and the challenges faced by families and healthcare systems in responding to the outbreak. Experts warn that the situation is dire, with high fatality rates and limited access to treatment and vaccines.

The article discusses the complex relationship between Britain and China, highlighting the tension between the economic benefits of trade and the security risks posed by China's aggressive espionage activities. Britain's intelligence agencies view China as a significant threat, but the government has been criticized for being too soft on China, prioritizing economic ties over national security concerns. The article cites recent examples, including the dropped charges against two British men accused of spying for China and the debate over China's plans to build a new embassy in London, which security officials worry will be a hub for espionage.

The US assessment of the 2022 Israeli shooting of Palestinian-American journalist Shireen Abu Akleh was divided among American officials, with some believing it was intentional and others supporting the Biden administration's conclusion that it was accidental. Colonel Steve Gabavics, a career military policeman, contradicted the administration's statement, claiming that the Israeli soldier must have known he was shooting at a journalist. The investigation was led by General Michael R. Fenzel, who maintained that there was not enough evidence to conclude that the shooting was intentional. The FBI investigation into the shooting has not released any findings nearly three years later.

HSBC will recognize a $1.1 billion provision in its third-quarter results due to a Luxembourg court ruling related to the Bernard Madoff investment fraud case. The court denied HSBC's appeal regarding Herald Fund SPC's securities restitution claim. HSBC plans to pursue a second appeal and contests the amount to be paid if unsuccessful. The provision will impact HSBC's Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) ratio by about 15 basis points. Analysts believe the charge won't affect operations but may weigh on sentiment. HSBC is undergoing restructuring under CEO Georges Elhedery, aiming to cut costs by $300 million this year.

UBS is advising investors to diversify their portfolios by investing in select Asian markets, high-quality bonds, and gold, as the U.S. bull market is expected to continue but with potential volatility. The bank's strategists recommend China and Japan as attractive equity opportunities in Asia, citing China's tech sector and Japan's pro-growth agenda. UBS also suggests adding exposure to U.S. investment-grade bonds and Treasurys, as well as gold, to hedge against potential market downturns and geopolitical risks.

The US and China have reached a framework for a potential trade deal, which may delay export curbs on rare earths. The deal is expected to ease tensions before a high-stakes meeting between US President Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping. The key components of the potential trade deal are being analyzed, and it is unclear how it will affect export curbs on rare earths.

British commentator Sami Hamdi was detained by US immigration authorities while on a national speaking tour. His visa was revoked, and he is set to be deported. The detention is believed to be related to his criticism of the Israeli government. The Council on American Islamic Relations (CAIR) has called for his release, accusing the Trump administration of suppressing free speech. Conservative figures had been urging the administration to expel Hamdi.

The Japanese government has released bear attack survival tips as encounters between humans and bears surge across the country. The increasing bear population and dwindling natural food sources have led to bears venturing into populated areas, resulting in attacks on humans. Authorities advise people to avoid eye contact, sudden movements, and running when encountering bears, and to back away slowly. A study found that lying face down and protecting one's head and neck can reduce the severity of injuries. The government is considering involving the military to tackle the issue, and residents are taking measures to protect themselves, including carrying bells and whistles, and using repellent spray.

Argentina's President Javier Milei's party won a decisive victory in the legislative elections, which was seen as a referendum on his leadership and economic policies. The win is expected to give Milei a more reformist Congress, allowing him to push through his radical austerity measures. The election outcome came after the US provided a $40 billion bailout to Argentina, which has been a subject of controversy among the public, with many criticizing the move as prioritizing foreign aid over domestic issues.