Global Turmoil: Internet Blackouts, Conflicts, and Economic Shifts

The Taliban government in Afghanistan has imposed a nationwide shutdown of telecommunications, resulting in a "total internet blackout". The shutdown has disrupted mobile internet, satellite TV, and flights from Kabul airport. The Taliban have not given an official reason for the shutdown, but it is believed to be related to their interpretation of Islamic Sharia law. The blackout is the latest in a series of restrictions imposed by the Taliban since they seized power in 2021. The shutdown has had a significant impact on businesses, education, and daily life, with many people losing access to banking services, online classes, and other essential services. Women and girls have been particularly affected, with many being barred from accessing education beyond the age of 12.

A Chinese court has sentenced 11 members of the notorious Ming mafia family to death for their involvement in running scam centers, illegal casinos, and other criminal activities in Myanmar. The Ming family, along with other criminal groups, generated over $1.4 billion from their illicit activities, which included telecommunications fraud, drug trafficking, and prostitution. The crackdown on the Ming family is part of China's efforts to combat organized crime on its border with Myanmar. The scam centers, which were operated by the Ming family and other clans, held thousands of workers who were forced to run sophisticated online fraud operations targeting victims worldwide. The Chinese government's actions demonstrate its determination to deal harshly with the scam business, and its influence has also led to pressure on other countries in the region, such as Thailand, to take action against similar operations.

Investigators in Michigan are searching for a motive behind a deadly attack on a church where a gunman drove into the building, opened fire, and set it ablaze, killing four people and injuring eight others. The suspect, Thomas Jacob Sanford, a 40-year-old Marine Corps veteran, was later shot dead by police. Authorities have interviewed over 100 people and are examining the suspect's phone records and property. Governor Gretchen Whitmer has called for patience and cautioned against speculation, while the FBI leads the investigation with crisis response teams and bomb technicians. The attack has sparked reactions from prominent figures, including President Donald Trump and US Attorney General Pam Bondi, who have condemned the violence.

Madagascar's President Andry Rajoelina has dissolved his government following days of protests led by young people, known as 'Gen Z', over longstanding issues of water and power cuts. The protests, which began in the capital Antananarivo and spread to eight other cities, saw thousands take to the streets under the slogan 'We want to live, not survive'. The UN's human rights chief, Volker Türk, condemned the 'unnecessary force' used by security forces, citing at least 22 deaths and 100 injuries. Rajoelina apologized for his government's failures and announced the formation of a new government, while also expressing a desire to hold talks with young people. The protests mark a significant challenge to Rajoelina's presidency, which has seen multiple uprisings since Madagascar gained independence in 1960.

Moldova's pro-European party, led by President Maia Sandu, has won a majority in parliament, securing around 50% of the vote. The election was marred by claims of Russian interference, with Sandu warning of 'massive Russian interference' and the party's leader, Igor Grosu, stating that Russia had thrown 'everything it had' at the election. The result is seen as a significant victory for Moldova's pro-EU path, with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen welcoming the outcome. The opposition, led by Igor Dodon, claimed victory before results were announced and called for protests, but the turnout was low. The election was also marked by bomb scares and arrests, with Grosu blaming 'criminal groups backed by Moscow' for the incidents.

YouTuber MrBeast has defended his latest stunt video, which shows a professional stuntman escaping a blazing building while collecting cash, against criticism that it was irresponsible and could put viewers at risk. MrBeast, whose real name is Jimmy Donaldson, said he takes safety seriously and had taken extensive measures to ensure the stuntman's safety. The video has garnered over 45 million views and sparked a backlash on social media, with some users calling it 'dystopian' and 'humiliating'. MrBeast has faced previous criticism for his business ventures and stunts, including a lawsuit over his Amazon series 'Beast Games' and accusations of exploiting the Mayan pyramids for a video.

A Russian woman, Nina Kutina, and her three children have returned to Russia after being found living in a cave in Karnataka, India. Kutina, 40, and her daughters, aged six and five, were rescued by police in July and were later detained in a foreigners' detention center. Kutina's minor son from another relationship, who was living in Goa, also returned with them. The family had been at the center of a controversy after an Israeli businessman, Dror Shlomo Goldstein, claimed to be the father of the two girls and sought custody. However, the Karnataka high court ruled in favor of the family being repatriated to Russia.

The US is considering supplying Ukraine with long-range Tomahawk missiles, according to US Vice-President JD Vance. Ukraine has been calling for Western partners to provide weapons that could hit major Russian cities, arguing it would help weaken Russia's military industry and bring the war to an end. The Tomahawk missiles have a range of 2,500 km, putting Moscow within reach for Ukraine. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov downplayed the suggestion, saying it wouldn't change the dynamic on the front. The US administration's tone on the war has shifted recently, with President Donald Trump saying Ukraine could "win all of Ukraine back in its original form". Ukraine has been asking for Patriot surface-to-air defence systems to protect its skies from ballistic missiles. The country's defence industry has developed significantly during the war, producing drones, artillery shells, and armoured vehicles. Ukraine hopes that better protection and long-range weapons will bring Moscow to the negotiating table.

UN human rights experts have condemned the 'staggering scale' of executions in Iran, with over 1,000 people killed in the first nine months of 2025. The experts expressed alarm at the dramatic escalation in executions, particularly for drug-related offenses, which they say violate international human rights standards. Iran has defended its use of the death penalty, saying it is limited to 'the most severe crimes'. The UN experts called on the international community to take diplomatic action to pressure Iran to halt the executions.

Young Peruvians, mainly under 30, clashed with police in Lima during anti-government protests on Saturday and Sunday, dubbed 'Gen Z march'. The protests were triggered by a pension reform and fueled by corruption scandals, growing insecurity, and low approval ratings of President Dina Boluarte. At least 18 protesters were injured, and a police officer suffered burns. The protesters demanded action against corruption, extortion, and crime, with some calling for Boluarte's resignation. Human rights groups criticized the police response as excessive.

The US Congress is on the verge of another government shutdown as President Trump and congressional Republicans clash with Democrats over funding. The shutdown threat has become more frequent over the past decade, with the most recent lapse in 2018 causing $3 billion in permanent losses. Historically, there have been 14 government shutdowns since 1980, with President Ronald Reagan overseeing eight during his term. The article reviews the history of these shutdowns, highlighting their causes, duration, and impact. The current standoff is centered on Democrats' push for extending enhanced tax credits for health insurance through the Affordable Care Act, which Trump has rejected.

The White House is considering Ukraine's request for long-range Tomahawk missiles to defend against Russian forces, according to Vice President JD Vance. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy had asked President Trump for the missiles during a meeting at the U.N. General Assembly. The Trump administration has a policy of selling weapons to Ukraine that would be paid for by European NATO countries. Vance stated that the U.S. is 'looking at' the request and that the final decision will be made by President Trump. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov responded by saying that Moscow is 'carefully analyzing' the possibility of Tomahawk deliveries to Ukraine. The U.S.-made Tomahawk missile has a range of about 1,500 miles, which would put Moscow within range of Kyiv. Russia has been launching large-scale attacks on Ukraine, with over 600 drones and missiles fired at targets across the country on Sunday, killing four people and wounding dozens more.

Thousands protested in Buenos Aires, Argentina, demanding justice for three young women whose torture and murders were livestreamed on social media. The victims, two 20-year-old cousins and a 15-year-old girl, were lured into a van and killed by a drug gang as a punishment for violating gang code. Five suspects have been arrested, and authorities are searching for the alleged mastermind, a 20-year-old Peruvian. The case has sparked outrage and highlighted Argentina's femicide epidemic, with one woman being killed by a man every 36 hours. Protesters criticized media coverage, saying it often blames victims, and demanded justice and accountability.

The Taliban has shut down the internet across Afghanistan, restricting access to information and communication. The move is part of the Islamist regime's latest crackdown on the country, following the restriction of high-speed internet connections in several regions earlier this month. The blackout has disrupted television broadcasts, mobile phone internet services, and affected ordinary people's lives, including businesses and online education. The Taliban's leadership has not publicly commented on the blackout, but a local spokesperson attributed the ban to preventing 'immoral activities' as ordered by their leader, Haibatullah Akhundzada. The country's humanitarian crisis, exacerbated by donor governments' aid cuts and the return of refugees, has worsened with this latest development.

The article reports on videos obtained by CBS News showing Cuban nationals captured by Ukraine while fighting for Russia in the ongoing conflict. Ukrainian officials estimate that up to 20,000 Cubans have been recruited by Russia as mercenaries, with promises of a $2,000 monthly salary, a significant sum compared to the average monthly salary in Cuba of less than $20. The Cubans are reportedly being used on the front lines, with many living in poverty and desperate for money. The Cuban government has denied involvement, claiming to have cracked down on trafficking rings recruiting nationals. Ukrainian officials have compiled a list of 39 Cubans killed, but believe the true death toll to be higher.

Asia-Pacific markets were mixed on Tuesday as China's manufacturing activity contracted for the sixth consecutive month, although less than expected. Australia's central bank kept interest rates steady at 3.6%, in line with economist expectations. The Reserve Bank of Australia's decision was seen as a key event in the region, with any shift in tone or guidance potentially impacting AUD crosses. Japan's Nikkei 225 fell slightly, while South Korea's Kospi was flat. Hong Kong's Hang Seng index rose, driven by a strong debut from Zijin Gold. US markets closed higher overnight, with the S&P 500 and Nasdaq Composite advancing.

China's manufacturing activity showed a smaller-than-expected contraction in September, with the official PMI coming in at 49.8, still below the 50 benchmark that separates growth from contraction. The private surveyor RatingDog's PMI reading was 51.2, beating economists' forecasts. Despite the improvement, China's economy is still facing challenges from sluggish domestic demand and global trade disruptions. The official non-manufacturing PMI edged lower to 52.9, while the RatingDog general services PMI eased to 50. Recent economic data has pointed to a slowdown in China's economy, with retail sales growth weakening and the consumer price index dipping into negative territory. Experts expect China's Politburo meeting in October to provide insight into Beijing's economic policy plans.

The U.S. Secretary of Commerce, Howard Lutnick, has suggested that Taiwan should produce only half of America's chips, with the U.S. producing the other half, in a bid to reduce American dependence on Taiwan for semiconductors. Lutnick's proposal, dubbed the '50-50 plan,' aims to increase domestic semiconductor production to around 40% by the end of President Donald Trump's current term, requiring over $500 billion in local investment. Taiwan currently produces over 90% of the world's advanced semiconductors, largely due to the Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC), the world's largest contract chipmaker. Lutnick downplayed the 'Silicon Shield' theory, which suggests Taiwan's critical position in global chip production deters China from taking military action against the island. The U.S. and Taiwan are engaged in trade negotiations that may impact tariff rates for Taiwanese businesses, and the Trump administration has proposed 100% tariffs on semiconductors, with exemptions for companies investing in the U.S.

Top Democrats, including Chuck Schumer and Hakeem Jeffries, met with President Donald Trump and Republican leaders to discuss government funding and health care. Despite the meeting, the two sides remain far apart on reaching a deal, and a shutdown is looming. Trump expressed openness to extending Obamacare subsidies, but the White House clarified that any deal would require Democrats to agree to keep the government running. Democrats are betting that a shutdown over health care could energize their party and win over voters, while the White House has threatened mass firings to force Democrats to capitulate.

Afghanistan experienced a widespread internet blackout on Tuesday after the Taliban vowed to cut off access to prevent 'immoral activities'. The blackout has caused panic among Afghans abroad who are unable to contact their family members inside the country. The shutdown has severely affected the operations of news agencies and organizations, and has raised concerns about the humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan. The Taliban have been accused of curtailing human rights, particularly targeting women and girls. The blackout is seen as a significant escalation of the Taliban's restrictions on freedom of expression and access to information.

US President Donald Trump's new 20-point peace plan for Gaza has been met with cautious optimism, despite the administration's history of failed peace initiatives, including in Ukraine. The plan calls for an immediate ceasefire, hostage release, and Israeli withdrawal, but its success depends on Trump's willingness to devote time and pressure to Netanyahu and Hamas. Critics argue that Netanyahu may be banking on Hamas not agreeing to the plan, allowing him to continue his military operations in Gaza. Trump's plan is seen as more substantive than previous efforts, but its implementation is uncertain due to the complex history and political forces driving the conflict.

US President Donald Trump has imposed new tariffs on imported lumber, timber, kitchen cabinets, and upholstered furniture, citing national security and the need to support American industries. The tariffs, set to take effect on October 14, will be 10% on softwood lumber and timber, and 25% on kitchen cabinets, vanities, and upholstered wooden furniture. The rates will be increased on January 1, with cabinets facing a 50% tariff and upholstered furniture facing a 30% tariff. Industry experts warn that the tariffs could increase lumber and building costs, potentially exacerbating the housing affordability crisis. Trump has been critical of Canada, the primary source of US lumber imports, claiming that the US has enough trees to meet its own needs. The tariffs are part of Trump's broader efforts to boost US manufacturing and reduce reliance on foreign imports.

The article discusses the potential for the US to retake Bagram Airbase from the Taliban in Afghanistan, with expert Bill Roggio warning that China will not allow it. Roggio states that China has significant influence over the Taliban and will pressure them to prevent the US return. The article highlights the growing economic ties between China and Afghanistan, with China expressing interest in mining opportunities and trade. Roggio warns that this relationship is 'dangerous' as it could give the Taliban access to military technology and resources. The US withdrawal from Afghanistan has opened the country to Chinese influence, and Roggio notes that the Taliban permits al Qaeda to operate in the country.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov delivered a stern warning to the West at the United Nations General Assembly, accusing NATO and the European Union of waging a 'real war' against Russia. He positioned Russia as a defender of global sovereignty and criticized the U.S. for dismantling post-WWII principles through interventions in various countries. Lavrov also condemned Israel's campaign in Gaza as 'collective punishment' and accused NATO of ignoring security commitments. The warning comes amid heightened tension along NATO's eastern flank and a shift in U.S. rhetoric, with President Donald Trump hardening his tone on the war in Ukraine.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has backed US President Donald Trump's plan to end the nearly two-year-long conflict in Gaza, but Hamas has yet to agree. The plan involves Hamas disarming in exchange for humanitarian aid and reconstruction, with an international security force overseeing Gaza's administration. The proposal includes a vague promise of potential Palestinian statehood in the future. Hamas faces a difficult decision, as rejecting the deal could lead to Israel continuing its military campaign in Gaza. Arab countries have backed the plan, while Netanyahu's own coalition allies have expressed concerns.

US President Donald Trump responded to a taunting video message from the celebrating Europe Ryder Cup team after their thrilling victory in the biannual golf competition. The team, led by British two-time captain Luke Donald, won by 15 points to 13. The exchange between Trump and the Europe team was friendly, with Trump saying 'Yes, I'm watching. Congratulations!' in response to their chant 'Are you watching, Donald Trump?'. The Ryder Cup event was marked by controversy, with multiple spectators being thrown out for their behavior and players like Rory McIlroy being targeted by boos and heckles.

Christian B, a suspect in the Madeleine McCann case, has spoken publicly for the first time since his release from prison, pleading to be left alone and have his life back. He tried to confront prosecutor Hans Christian Wolters, who has accused him of abducting and murdering Madeleine, but was stopped. Christian B denies any involvement in Madeleine's disappearance and is frustrated with the media attention and police surveillance. He was released from prison two weeks ago after serving a sentence for child sex crimes and is currently living in a secret location under electronic surveillance.

A school building in Sidoarjo, Indonesia collapsed, trapping dozens of students under the rubble. At least 99 students were injured, and a 13-year-old boy died. Rescuers are working to free those trapped, with 38 still believed to be under the debris. The collapse occurred during an unauthorized expansion of the building.

Moldova's ruling pro-EU Party of Action and Solidarity (PAS) has won the parliamentary elections with 50.2% of the vote, defeating the Russia-leaning Patriotic Bloc which secured 24.2%. The election was seen as crucial for Moldova's future, with the PAS seeking closer ties with the EU and the Patriotic Bloc aiming to steer the country towards Russia. The outcome is considered a significant blow to the Kremlin and a victory for Moldova's pro-Western president Maia Sandu, who has been pushing for EU membership by 2030. The result allows the PAS to maintain a majority in parliament, avoiding the need to form a coalition with smaller parties.

The White House has unveiled a 20-point peace plan for Gaza, which includes a temporary administration headed by Donald Trump and Sir Tony Blair. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has backed the plan, while Hamas has not indicated whether it will accept the terms. The plan aims to end the war in Gaza, release Israeli hostages, and ensure the provision of humanitarian assistance to the people of Gaza. World leaders, including the foreign ministers of Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Egypt, have welcomed the plan.

The article discusses the mixed reactions to the Gaza peace deal proposed by Donald Trump's administration. While some, including Israeli President Isaac Herzog and Arab country leaders, have welcomed the plan, others, such as Hamas and some Palestinians, have expressed skepticism or outright opposition. Hamas's initial reaction was telling, as they stated that they cannot sign up to anything that does not include Palestinian self-determination, which the current plan does not. The article also highlights the divisions within Israel's government, with some far-right ministers strongly criticizing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's handling of the situation.

The article discusses Christian B, the prime suspect in the disappearance of Madeleine McCann, a British toddler who vanished in 2007 while on holiday in Praia da Luz, Portugal. Christian B, a 48-year-old German drifter, was recently released from prison after serving a seven-year sentence for raping a 72-year-old woman in Praia da Luz in 2005. He has a history of violent sexual crimes and has been linked to the McCann case through various pieces of evidence, including a confession allegedly made to a man in a bar in 2017. Despite denying any involvement, Christian B remains a suspect in the investigation, with prosecutors believing they have 'almost' enough evidence to charge him. The article provides a detailed overview of Christian B's criminal history and the ongoing investigation into Madeleine's disappearance.

The article discusses the Gaza peace plan proposed by the Trump administration, its key clauses, and the reactions of various stakeholders. The plan aims to end the Gaza conflict by making Gaza a 'deradicalised terror-free zone' and redeveloping it for its people. However, the role of Palestinians beyond Hamas is unclear, and Hamas' buy-in is crucial but unlikely. The plan includes the release of hostages and Palestinian prisoners, and a temporary governing board led by Donald Trump and Tony Blair. The article analyzes the plan's prospects, with correspondents expressing skepticism about its success.

The article discusses Andrew Cuomo's potential candidacy for New York City Mayor and the challenges he faces in winning the election. Cuomo needs to shed his 'bully image' and 'self-righteous tones' to appeal to voters. The article suggests that Cuomo should be more humble, honest, and specific about his policy positions to win over supporters of Mayor Eric Adams and Republican Curtis Sliwa. Cuomo's past record and likability are concerns for voters, and he needs to admit his past mistakes and provide a clear plan for addressing the city's issues. The article concludes that Cuomo has a narrow path to win City Hall and stave off a potentially disastrous Zohran Mamdani mayoralty.

Former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair will help run Gaza under President Trump's proposed 20-point peace plan, serving on a new international transitional body called the 'board of peace'. The plan aims to end the Gaza conflict by removing Hamas from power and establishing a new government made up of Palestinians and international experts. Blair has praised Trump's plan as 'bold and intelligent' and the 'best chance' for peace in the region. Israel has agreed to the framework, but Hamas has not. Blair's involvement is seen as significant due to his experience as a special envoy for the Quartet on the Middle East and his advocacy for a two-state solution.

The grieving father of Logan Federico, a 22-year-old aspiring teacher murdered by a repeat offender, Alexander Dickey, testified before a congressional hearing, criticizing lawmakers for lax crime policies that allowed his daughter's killer to remain on the streets. Stephen Federico emotionally recounted the circumstances of his daughter's murder and blasted the justice system for failing to protect her and others. He vowed to continue fighting for his daughter's cause and urged lawmakers to take action against violent crime and repeat offenders.

Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban were last seen together in public at a 2025 FIFA Club World Cup match in Nashville on June 20, just before their 19th wedding anniversary. The couple's separation was announced on September 29, with sources indicating that Urban initiated the breakup and has moved out of the family home. Kidman had shared a sweet anniversary message on Instagram, but Urban was not featured in her 'summer memories' post two months later. The news of their split has sparked speculation about the reasons behind their separation.

Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban's separation after nearly 20 years of marriage wasn't a secret to their inner circle, according to sources close to the couple. The news broke on Monday, and insiders revealed that they had been living separately since the beginning of summer. Kidman is leaning on her family for support, with her sister being a rock during this difficult time. Sources claim that Urban initiated the separation and has acquired a new residence in Nashville, moving out of their family home. The couple shares two daughters, Sunday Rose and Faith Margaret. They were last seen together in public at a 2025 FIFA Club World Cup match in June, just before their 19th wedding anniversary.

The article argues that top US colleges are unfairly favoring undocumented immigrant students over American-born students by providing financial benefits and other perks. Despite the Trump administration's efforts to end such practices in public universities, many prestigious private colleges continue to offer support programs for undocumented students. The author claims that this preferential treatment is discriminatory against American-born students and undermines the character of American universities.

The article discusses President Donald Trump's 20-point peace plan for the Gaza war, praising it as a potentially effective solution for regional peace and stability. The plan involves a ceasefire, Israeli military withdrawal, and the establishment of a 'Board of Peace' to oversee Gaza's post-war reconstruction. Despite Hamas's likely resistance, the plan is considered a significant step forward, especially compared to previous efforts by European leaders. The article highlights the plan's idealistic and practical aspects, including the potential for Arab and Muslim powers to support it, and notes that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's strategy aligns with Trump's plan.

The US government is on the brink of a shutdown as President Trump and top Democrats failed to reach an agreement during a private meeting. The main point of contention is health care spending, with Democrats demanding $1 trillion in funding to extend Obamacare subsidies and reverse cuts to Medicaid. Republicans have refused to agree to concessions, and the deadline to fund the government is Tuesday. A shutdown could have significant consequences for the federal workforce and Americans relying on government services. Trump officials have signaled plans to conduct mass firings if the government shuts down.

The Des Moines school superintendent, Ian Roberts, was arrested by ICE on Friday and subsequently placed on unpaid leave by the school board on Monday. Roberts, who was born in Guyana, has been accused of living and working in the US illegally, despite having a long career in education across multiple states. The school board voted 6-0 to place him on unpaid leave after the Iowa Board of Educational Examiners revoked his state license. Roberts' lawyer claims that the district has thrown away due process, while ICE officials and some Iowa Republicans have expressed alarm at how someone without legal status could lead a 30,000-student school district. The situation has left residents confused and concerned, with some questioning how Roberts was able to work in multiple districts and states without being detected.

A federal judge has ordered the Trump administration to reverse layoff notices sent to nearly all remaining employees at Voice of America (VOA), a federal news organization that provides independent reporting to countries with limited press freedom. Judge Royce C. Lamberth of the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia found that the administration had violated his April order to restore VOA's news coverage. The layoffs, led by Kari Lake, a fierce Trump ally, were seen as an attempt to gut VOA, which has been a thorn in the side of authoritarian governments like China, Russia, and Iran. The judge expressed frustration with Lake's noncompliance and warned her and other Trump officials that they were risking contempt. The ruling was seen as a victory for the VOA journalists and staff who sued the administration.

The Trump administration is intensifying efforts to oust Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro, with top aides led by Secretary of State Marco Rubio pushing for a broad campaign that includes escalating military pressure. The administration asserts that Maduro oversees a cartel network exporting drugs to the US, posing an 'imminent threat.' The US military has launched lethal attacks on civilian boats suspected of smuggling drugs, and the Pentagon has built up a force of over 6,500 troops in the region. The opposition in Venezuela has been planning for a post-Maduro scenario and has been in talks with the Trump administration.

President Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu unveiled a joint plan for a cease-fire in Gaza, which they presented as a landmark peace deal. However, the proposal is essentially an ultimatum to Hamas, demanding that they accept the terms or face continued Israeli military action with full US backing. The plan includes an immediate cease-fire, the return of Israeli hostages, and the release of Palestinian prisoners. Hamas has expressed skepticism, and the plan's future is uncertain. The proposal also outlines a post-conflict governance structure for Gaza, with Trump as chairman of a 'Board of Peace.' The plan has been met with criticism, with some arguing that it requires significant US involvement and that its success is uncertain.

The Trump administration has released details on tariffs imposed on imported wood, furniture, and kitchen cabinets, with the implementation delayed by two weeks to October 14. The tariffs on timber and lumber will be 10%, while those on furniture and kitchen cabinets will be higher and rise in the coming months. The proclamation cited national security as the basis for the tariffs, stating that wood products are used in critical functions of the Department of War. The tariffs are expected to impact American consumers, home buyers, and home builders, with Vietnam, China, and Mexico being significant suppliers of furniture and kitchen cabinets.

The Trump administration has deported around 100 Iranians from the United States back to Iran on a chartered flight, following a deal between the two governments. The deportees include men and women, some of whom were couples, and had either had their asylum requests denied or had not yet appeared before a judge. The deportation is seen as a rare moment of cooperation between the US and Iran, but has sparked criticism from immigrant advocates who argue that the US is deporting people to countries with harsh human rights records. Iran is currently facing an economic and energy crisis, and the return of UN Security Council sanctions is expected to worsen the situation. The US has historically given shelter to Iranians fleeing persecution, but has struggled to deport migrants to Iran due to a lack of diplomatic relations.

The article discusses the factors influencing America's young voters in the 2024 US presidential election. Young voters are disillusioned with the current state of the economy, feeling that higher education is too expensive, job prospects are uncertain, and home ownership is out of reach. The article highlights the differing views of young supporters of Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, with Harris leading among young voters according to opinion polls. The youth are more fired up than in the past, with a larger proportion of young Democrats saying they will definitely vote in the coming election. The article also explores the economic concerns of young voters, including inflation and the impact of tariffs on Chinese imports.

The article discusses the cautious optimism among Israelis regarding US President Donald Trump's Gaza peace plan, announced on September 29, 2025, with the backing of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The plan aims to end the nearly two-year conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. Israelis, including relatives of hostages held by Hamas, expressed guarded hope that the plan could bring an end to the war and secure the release of the remaining hostages. The plan includes a ceasefire, release of hostages, disarmament of Hamas, and a gradual Israeli withdrawal from Gaza. However, Hamas has not yet received the plan, and Netanyahu warned that he is still ready to 'finish the job' against Hamas.

Several Muslim-majority countries have backed a US plan to end the war in Gaza, proposed by President Donald Trump. The plan is supported by Israel and several European countries, but Hamas and some Palestinians have expressed skepticism. The plan includes a call for a transitional body in Gaza and the release of hostages. European leaders have welcomed the plan, with some urging all parties to seize the opportunity for peace.

Malaysia is experiencing a resurgence in train travel, with the Keretapi Tanah Melayu (KTM) rail operator providing both intercity and local train services across Peninsular Malaysia. The Komuter Utara service, launched in 2015, has benefited many Malaysians, including commuters like Nuhairi Ismail who travel from Alor Setar to Penang for work. The KTM network stretches from Singapore to the Thai border, with various rail arteries, including the Electric Train Service (ETS) and the Jungle Railway. The rail revival is driven by improved infrastructure, including the upcoming East Coast Rail Link and Penang Light Rail Transit. Train travel is not only a practical option for commuters but also a popular choice for adventurers and nostalgia seekers.

US President Donald Trump's new 20-point plan to end the Gaza war has been met with skepticism, as it is seen as favoring Israel and unlikely to win over Hamas. The plan includes an ultimatum to Hamas to release hostages, disarm, and surrender, or face Israeli military force with US backing. While the plan offers amnesty to Hamas operatives who hand over their weapons and commits to rebuilding Gaza, it lacks a clear pathway to Palestinian statehood. Critics view it as a attempt to justify continued Israeli action, while some analysts see it as a potentially significant development due to regional support from countries like Qatar and Turkey.

The article discusses the remaining comfort women survivors in Asia, 80 years after being forced into sexual slavery by the Japanese Imperial Army during World War II. It highlights the story of 97-year-old Park Pil-geun, one of the last surviving comfort women in South Korea, and the ongoing struggles of these survivors to seek closure and justice. The issue remains a contentious topic between South Korea and Japan, with tensions rising and falling over the years. The article also touches on the different approaches taken by China and the Philippines in dealing with the comfort women issue.

South Korea has raised its national cyber threat level to 'caution' following a massive fire at a government data centre in Daejeon, which caused widespread disruption to critical digital infrastructure across the country. The fire, which broke out on Friday evening, was caused by a lithium-ion battery igniting during relocation. As a result, 647 government systems were shut down, affecting various services including government email, mobile identification, postal banking, and major government websites. As of Tuesday, 89 systems had been restored, but 96 were completely destroyed, with recovery expected to take four weeks. The incident has raised concerns about cybersecurity and the country's preparedness for major events like the upcoming APEC summit.

Typhoon Bualoi has caused widespread destruction and loss of life across Vietnam, Thailand, and the Philippines, with the death toll rising to at least 30. The storm made landfall in northern central Vietnam, bringing heavy rains, strong winds, and flooding. Vietnam was the worst affected, with 19 deaths and 21 people still missing. Thailand experienced flooding in 17 provinces, with Ayutthaya being the most affected, resulting in four deaths. The Philippines also suffered significant damage, particularly in the island province of Biliran, where 10 people were killed. The storm has been linked to global warming, which is making storms stronger and wetter. The region is still experiencing heavy rains and flooding, with warnings of potential landslides and flash floods.