China's fresh commitment hailed as major contribution to global climate action Xinhua) 08:36, September 28, 2025 This photo taken on Sept. 3, 2025 shows a view at a photovoltaic and desertification control project in Kubuqi Desert, north China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region. (Xinhua/Li Zhipeng) BEIJING, Sept. 27 (Xinhua) -- Confronted with the urgent yet long-term challenge of climate change, China's renewed announcement of its climate governance plan has reaffirmed the country's determination to press ahead in the next decade, officials and experts have said. China's new Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) announced at the United Nations Climate Summit this week signaled its entry into a new phase of resilient, low-carbon development, and that it will contribute further to realizing the long-term goals of the Paris Agreement, they said. According to the new NDCs, China will reduce economy-wide net greenhouse gas emissions from peak levels by 7 percent to 10 percent by 2035, striving to do better. "It is the first time China has set an absolute emissions reduction target, marking the country's shift from intensity-based control to total emissions control," said Li Gao, vice minister of ecology and environment. The world's second-largest economy also announced 2035 goals to increase the share of non-fossil fuels to over 30 percent of its total energy consumption, and to expand its installed wind and solar power capacity to over six times the 2020 level, striving to bring that capacity to 3,600 gigawatts. The country will also scale up its total forest stock volume to over 24 billion cubic meters, make new energy vehicles the main stream in sales of new vehicles, expand the National Carbon Emissions Trading Market to cover major high-emissions sectors, and basically establish a climate-adaptive society, per the new NDCs. These goals have been set based on the country's national realities, and in line with the requirements of the Paris Agreement and the global stocktake, said Chai Qimin with the National Center for Climate Change Strategy and International Cooperation. They reflect the country's greatest possible efforts, taking full account of economic growth, energy security, and industrial and supply chain stability, while balancing development with emissions reduction, Chai added. NDCs are national climate action plans that each country under the Paris Agreement submits, and they must be updated every five years with increasing ambition. In 2020, China set the dual carbon goals of peaking carbon dioxide emissions before 2030 and achieving carbon neutrality before 2060. Meeting these targets requires extraordinary efforts from the world's largest developing country as it entails achieving the greatest reduction in carbon intensity within the shortest timeframe in history. With sustained efforts, China has made notable progress to that end. According to the Chinese government, the country's installed renewable energy capacity totaled 2.159 billion kilowatts by the end of June 2025, accounting for approximately 59.2 percent of its total installed power generation capacity. And the proportion of non-fossil energy consumption in its overall energy consumption rose from 15.9 percent in 2020 to 19.8 percent in 2024. An official of the National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) said that China has consistently taken concrete actions to advance its dual carbon goals while contributing expertise and resources to global efforts to combat climate change. On global climate governance, for example, China firmly upholds the multilateral mechanisms established by the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, having made historic and significant contributions to the adoption and implementation of the Paris Agreement. China is also actively advancing the global green transition, supplying 60 percent of the world's wind power equipment and 70 percent of its photovoltaics, driving global wind and solar power generation costs down by more than 60 percent and 80 percent, respectively. During China's 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-2025) to date, China's wind and photovoltaic products have helped other countries reduce carbon emissions by approximately 4.1 billion tonnes. The NDRC official said that China has strengthened South-South cooperation on climate change response. To date, China has implemented over 300 capacity-building projects, and provided training for more than 10,000 personnel from over 120 developing countries. Since 2016, China has mobilized and provided project funding exceeding 177 billion yuan (about 25 billion U.S. dollars) to assist other developing countries in addressing climate change, supporting their climate action efforts significantly. Zhang Haibin, deputy dean of Peking University's Institute of Carbon Neutrality, said that China's new NDCs are of great significance to global climate governance. "They will boost international confidence in global climate governance, strengthen global climate action, promote international cooperation on tackling climate change, and highlight China's leading role in global climate governance," Zhang said. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) China contributes to global river governance experience-sharing, civilization exchange: report Xinhua) 11:07, September 28, 2025 This photo shows copies of the think tank report "A Mighty River That Nourishes a Great Nation -- Achievements, Insights, and Global Significance of Yangtze River Governance in the New Era." The report was released Friday by Xinhua Institute, a think tank affiliated with Xinhua News Agency, at the ongoing 2025 Great Rivers Forum in Wuhan, central China's Hubei Province. (Xinhua/Wu Zhizun) WUHAN, Sept. 26 (Xinhua) -- China has contributed to global experience-sharing and civilization exchange in the area of river governance, with its governance of the Yangtze River offering developing countries a new philosophy and practical path for economic development, according to a think tank report released on Friday. The report, "A Mighty River That Nourishes a Great Nation -- Achievements, Insights, and Global Significance of Yangtze River Governance in the New Era," was released by Xinhua Institute, which is a think tank affiliated with Xinhua News Agency, at the ongoing 2025 Great Rivers Forum in Wuhan, central China's Hubei Province. The report indicates that the practical action China has taken in the governance of the Yangtze River dismantles the discourse of "ecological fundamentalism" constructed by Western countries, offering developing nations an alternative to the old paths of polluting first and cleaning up later, or of prioritizing growth over ecology. In the governance of the Yangtze River, policies like the 10-year fishing ban demonstrate the strategic resolve and historical patience of policymakers, as the effects are set to take years -- or even longer -- to fully materialize, according to the report. China's pursuit of high-quality development through the governance and protection of the Yangtze River represents a pioneering practice in managing and protecting major rivers globally while transforming and upgrading development models, per the report. "The ideas, technologies and experience accumulated in this process are becoming public goods benefiting all of humanity through various international exchange channels," it says. It highlights that China has focused actively on the research and protection of great river basin cultures in recent years, organizing events like dialogues and seminars on major river civilizations to facilitate exchanges between the world's great riverine civilizations, as well as mutual learning in terms of governance experience. This exchange goes beyond simple technical sharing, elevates that to cultural and philosophical heights, and guides countries to work together to address global challenges, the report states. Full text: A Mighty River That Nourishes a Great Nation -- Achievements, Insights, and Global Significance of Yangtze River Governance in the New Era This photo shows a copy of the think tank report "A Mighty River That Nourishes a Great Nation -- Achievements, Insights, and Global Significance of Yangtze River Governance in the New Era." The report was released Friday by Xinhua Institute, a think tank affiliated with Xinhua News Agency, at the ongoing 2025 Great Rivers Forum in Wuhan, central China's Hubei Province. (Xinhua/Wu Zhizun) A participant reads the think tank report "A Mighty River That Nourishes a Great Nation -- Achievements, Insights, and Global Significance of Yangtze River Governance in the New Era" at the 2025 Great Rivers Forum in Wuhan, central China's Hubei Province, Sept. 26, 2025. The report was released Friday by Xinhua Institute, a think tank affiliated with Xinhua News Agency, at the forum. (Xinhua/Wu Zhizun) (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) Estonia contributes 10 million to NATO-US initiative to support Ukraine Republic of Estonia - Ministry of Defence 27. September 2025 - 10:46 Estonia is contributing 10 million euros to an initiative through which NATO allies and partners purchase essential weapons systems and ammunition from the United States to support Ukraine. "With the PURL initiative, European allies and partners are rapidly directing resources to support Ukraine, primarily to strengthen Ukraine's air defense capabilities by acquiring critical air defense systems from the US," said Minister Pevkur. The "Prioritized Ukraine Requirement List" (PURL) initiative was announced on July 14 by US President Donald Trump and NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte. It enables the supply of US-produced weaponry to Ukraine, including air defense systems, ammunition, and spare parts. The initiative consists of aid packages that will be sent to Ukraine on a regular basis. Each package addresses Ukraine's critical needs and is valued at approximately 500 million US dollars. Their delivery is coordinated by NATO, including through the NATO Security Assistance and Training for Ukraine (NSATU) command in Wiesbaden, Germany. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russian Strikes Pound Ukraine As Kyiv Disrupts Major Oil-Pumping Station 1,200-Km From Border By RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service September 27, 2025 Summary Russian forces launched aerial attacks across Ukraine, killing one and targeting infrastructure and residential areas. Ukraine's air defenses neutralize 97 of 115 drones launched by Russia, amid intensified strikes on regions like Vinnytsia, Zaporizhzhya, Sumy, and Kherson. A Russian governor accused Ukraine of a drone strike on an oil pipeline pumping station, causing minor damage but halting operations. Russian air strikes on several regions across Ukraine damaged critical civilian infrastructure, as a Ukrainian drone attack halted operations at a major oil-pumping station deep inside Russia. Ukrainian air defense reported shooting down or neutralizing 97 of 115 drones launched by Russia overnight. A "massive attack" by Russian forces struck critical infrastructure and a residential building in Ukraine's west-central Vinnytsia region, local officials said. Railway service in Vinnystia was disrupted, but no casualties were reported, regional official Natalia Zabolotna said on Telegram. Russian drone strikes also damaged two residential high-rises as well as other structures in Zaporizhzhya, regional military administration chief Ivan Fedorov said. One person was killed and two more wounded in a missile strike on the Sumy region. Both the Zaporizhzhya and Sumy regions, which are partly occupied by the Russian forces, have come under frequent attack recently. In the southern city of Kherson, near Russian-occupied territory across the Dnieper River, Russian shelling damaged a private home and commercial buildings. Meanwhile, the governor of Russia's Chuvashia region, Oleg Nikolayev, said Ukrainian drones struck an oil-pumping station near the village of Konar, which is about 1,200 kilometers from Ukraine. Operations were halted and the strike caused minor damage and no casualties, he said on Telegram. Ukraine's Security Service later confirmed that its long-range drones had been used in the attack, claiming that they had caused a fire at the facility. The strikes come at a time when prospects for peace seem as distant as ever and Russia's full-scale invasion nears to continue into its fourth winter. After returning from his trip to the United States, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Kyiv would not hesitate to respond to Russian attacks if further strikes cause energy outages in Ukraine. "If [Russia] threatens a blackout in the Ukrainian capital, the Kremlin should know -- there will be a blackout in Russian capital too," Zelenskyy told journalists on September 27. In recent months, Ukraine has stepped up attacks targeting refineries, export terminals, and other oil infrastructure, seeking to undermine Russia's capacity to fight the war by reducing its export revenues and cause domestic discontent by creating shortages and pushing up prices. A US effort to broker a peace deal has brought little progress. The positions of Ukraine and Russia remain far apart, and US President Donald Trump has so far not succeeded in organizing a Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/russia-ukraine-war -drones-oil-attacks/33542543.html Copyright (c) 2025. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address CHONGQING, China, Sept. 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- On September 18, the 2025 Modern Service Industry High-Quality Development Conference was held in Yuzhong District, west China's Chongqing Municipality, which also saw the release of China's top-performing 500 service enterprises. Titled "New Engine, New Prospects -- Writing a New Chapter in the High-Quality Development of Modern Service Industry," the conference aimed to build a platform for government-enterprise-research exchanges and cooperation. At the conference, the China Enterprise Confederation and China Enterprise Directors Association unveiled the 2025 list of China's Top 500 Service Enterprises. Data showed that their total operating income exceeded 50 trillion yuan, reaching 51.1 trillion yuan, up 3.82% -- 1.9 percentage points higher than the previous year. The average operating income exceeded 100 billion yuan for the first time, hitting 102.22 billion yuan. The entry threshold rose 10.71% to 7.98 billion yuan, while total assets surpassed 400 trillion yuan, reaching 404.9 trillion yuan, a 9.19% increase. In recent years, Chongqing has leveraged its strength as a national key advanced manufacturing hub, advancing in-depth integration of technological and industrial innovation, advanced manufacturing and modern services, and the real economy and digital economy, to speed up building a pioneer zone for inland modern service industry development. The city has focused on sectors like software information, tech R&D, design consulting, modern logistics and financial services to boost high-quality growth of producer services. Seizing the opportunity of rapid AI iteration, it has taken "Digital Chongqing" as a driver to deepen the "AI +" initiative, using digital and intelligent services to upgrade industries. It has also expanded opening-up in services, deepening the comprehensive pilot program to unlock development momentum through institutional opening-up. As the host district, Yuzhong achieved a GDP of nearly 170 billion yuan in 2024, with 7.28 billion yuan per square kilometer and 292,000 yuan per capita. Occupying just 0.28 of Chongqing's land, it contributed 5.4% of the city's GDP -- a result of its booming modern service industry, which now accounts for over 93% of its GDP. In 2024, the service industry's added value hit 158.53 billion yuan (ranking second in Chongqing), with producer services' share of regional GDP topping the city. Yuzhong is developing a "4311" modern industrial system supported by finance and tech innovation: 4 key producer services (modern finance, professional services, sci-tech innovation services, modern logistics); 3 consumer services (modern commerce, cultural tourism & creativity, general health); consolidated modern construction; and emerging clusters (computing power economy, industrial internet, low-altitude economy). Going forward, Yuzhong aims to keep the tertiary industry share above 90% by 2027, raise modern producer services' proportion in regional GDP from 66.8% to 75%, and build a new highland for their development. Source: 2025 Modern Service Industry High-Quality Development Conference SAN DIEGO, Sept. 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Robbins Geller Rudman & Dowd LLP announces that purchasers of KinderCare Learning Companies, Inc. (NYSE: KLC) common stock in or traceable to KinderCares October 2024 initial public offering (the IPO), have until Monday, October 13, 2025 to seek appointment as lead plaintiff of the KinderCare class action lawsuit. Captioned Gollapalli v. KinderCare Learning Companies, Inc., No. 25-cv-01424, and pending in the District of Oregon, the KinderCare class action lawsuit charges KinderCare as well as certain of KinderCares executives and directors, KinderCares controlling shareholder, and the underwriters of the IPO with violations of the Securities Act of 1933. If you suffered substantial losses and wish to serve as lead plaintiff of the KinderCare class action lawsuit, please provide your information here: https://www.rgrdlaw.com/cases-kindercare-learning-companies-inc-class-action-lawsuit-klc.html You can also contact attorneys J.C. Sanchez or Jennifer N. Caringal of Robbins Geller by calling 800/449-4900 or via e-mail at info@rgrdlaw.com. CASE ALLEGATIONS: KinderCare provides early education and child care services in the United States. In the IPO, KinderCare sold over 27 million shares of common stock to investors at $24 per share, raising $648 million in gross offering proceeds. The KinderCare class action lawsuit alleges that the registration statement for the IPO was false and/or misleading and/or failed to disclose that: (i) numerous incidents of child abuse, neglect, and harm had occurred at KinderCare facilities; (ii) KinderCare did not provide the highest quality care possible at its facilities, and, indeed, in numerous instances had failed to provide even basic care, meet minimum standards in the child care industry, or comply with the laws and regulations governing the care of children; and (iii) as a result, KinderCare was exposed to a material, undisclosed risk of lawsuits, adverse regulatory action, negative publicity, reputational damage, and business loss. Since the IPO, the price of KinderCare stock fell to lows near $9 per share. The plaintiff is represented by Robbins Geller, which has extensive experience in prosecuting investor class actions including actions involving financial fraud. You can view a copy of the complaint by clicking here. THE LEAD PLAINTIFF PROCESS: The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 permits any investor who purchased KinderCare common stock in or traceable to the IPO to seek appointment as lead plaintiff in the KinderCare class action lawsuit. A lead plaintiff is generally the movant with the greatest financial interest in the relief sought by the putative class who is also typical and adequate of the putative class. A lead plaintiff acts on behalf of all other class members in directing the KinderCare class action lawsuit. The lead plaintiff can select a law firm of its choice to litigate the KinderCare class action lawsuit. An investors ability to share in any potential future recovery is not dependent upon serving as lead plaintiff of the KinderCare class action lawsuit. ABOUT ROBBINS GELLER: Robbins Geller Rudman & Dowd LLP is one of the worlds leading law firms representing investors in securities fraud and shareholder litigation. Our Firm has been ranked #1 in the ISS Securities Class Action Services rankings for four out of the last five years for securing the most monetary relief for investors. In 2024, we recovered over $2.5 billion for investors in securities-related class action cases more than the next five law firms combined, according to ISS. With 200 lawyers in 10 offices, Robbins Geller is one of the largest plaintiffs firms in the world, and the Firms attorneys have obtained many of the largest securities class action recoveries in history, including the largest ever $7.2 billion in In re Enron Corp. Sec. Litig. Please visit the following page for more information: https://www.rgrdlaw.com/services-litigation-securities-fraud.html Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Services may be performed by attorneys in any of our offices. Contact: Robbins Geller Rudman & Dowd LLP J.C. Sanchez, Jennifer N. Caringal 655 W. Broadway, Suite 1900, San Diego, CA 92101 800-449-4900 info@rgrdlaw.com NEW YORK, Sept. 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, continues to investigate potential breaches of fiduciary duties by the directors and officers of Danaher Corporation (NYSE: DHR). If you currently own shares of Danaher stock, please visit the firms website at https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=17717 for more information. You may also contact Phillip Kim of Rosen Law Firm toll free at 866-767-3653 or via email at case@rosenlegal.com. Why Rosen Law: We encourage investors to select qualified counsel with a track record of success in leadership roles. Often, firms issuing notices do not have comparable experience, resources, or any meaningful peer recognition. Many of these firms do not actually litigate securities class actions. Be wise in selecting counsel. The Rosen Law Firm represents investors throughout the globe, concentrating its practice in securities class actions and shareholder derivative litigation. Rosen Law Firm achieved the largest ever securities class action settlement against a Chinese Company at the time. Rosen Law Firm was Ranked No. 1 by ISS Securities Class Action Services for number of securities class action settlements in 2017. The firm has been ranked in the top 4 each year since 2013 and has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors. In 2019 alone the firm secured over $438 million for investors. In 2020, founding partner Laurence Rosen was named by law360 as a Titan of Plaintiffs Bar. Many of the firms attorneys have been recognized by Lawdragon and Super Lawyers. Follow us for updates on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-rosen-law-firm, on Twitter: https://twitter.com/rosen_firm or on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rosenlawfirm/. Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Contact Information: Laurence Rosen, Esq. Phillip Kim, Esq. The Rosen Law Firm, P.A. 275 Madison Avenue, 40th Floor New York, NY 10016 Tel: (212) 686-1060 Toll Free: (866) 767-3653 Fax: (212) 202-3827 case@rosenlegal.com www.rosenlegal.com SAXONBURG, Pa., Sept. 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Coherent Corp. (NYSE: COHR), a global leader in photonics, announced today that it will showcase its latest innovations in next-generation optical communications at ECOC 2025, taking place September 29-October 1 at the Bella Center in Copenhagen, Denmark (Booth #C3124). Coherent thought leaders will contribute to the Market Focus program through panels, workshops, and round table sessions. ECOC is the European premier global stage for showcasing innovation in datacenters and communications, and were excited to demonstrate how in Coherent we are shaping next-gen optical networking. We are excited to be at ECOC showcasing our innovation, our portfolio and contributing to thought leadership. Through our advanced technologies, close industry collaborations, and broad portfolio, we are helping customers build the networks of tomorrow, said Dr. Sanjai Parthasarathi, Chief Marketing Officer at Coherent. RECENT PRODUCT ANNOUNCEMENTS: 2D VCSEL Array Delivering power-efficient, compact optical links optimized for short-reach AI/ML datacenter interconnects, this 1.6T (32x50G) array is designed for scale-up networks, enabling low latency, cost efficiency, and seamless migration to Near-Packaged and Co-Packaged Optics. 100G ZR for Single-Fiber Operation The industrys first dual-laser QSFP28 DCO module for single-fiber, bi-directional applications delivers 10x capacity upgrades on existing 10G infrastructure. Powered by the low-power Steelerton DSP, it enables flexible, scalable, and cost-efficient optical access for next-generation connectivity. 400mW CW Laser Built on the proven BH DFB platform, the new 400 mW continuous-wave (CW) laser delivers stable high output, ultra-low noise, and narrow linewidths in a compact chip-on-carrier format. Engineered for next-generation co-packaged optics (CPO) and silicon photonics, it enables breakthrough performance in optical interconnects. High precision glass molded 2D lens array Leveraging Coherents state-of-the-art glass molding platform, the new 2D lens array enables wafer-level manufacturing that delivers unprecedented uniformity, higher bandwidth, and lower cost in multi-channel optical transmission. It is ideal for use in optical circuit switching, high-precision coupling, advanced imaging, sensing, and AR/VR devices. Quad-Channel IC Family Coherents new quad-channel ICs include silicon photonics Mach-Zehnder drivers for 800G/1.6T pluggables and a chipset for 400G ZR/ZR+ links. Delivering industry-leading performance with lower power consumption, these fiber-optic ASICs enable faster, more efficient optical transceivers for cloud, AI, and telecom applications. Wire Grid Polarizer for Datacom Transceivers Coherents next-generation meta-wire based WGP achieves a 50 dB extinction ratio and 98.5% efficiency with dual-sided AR coating. Compact, power-resilient, and cost-effective, it enables high-speed datacom transceivers and dynamic datacenter architectures, supporting the growing demands of AI-ready optical networks. TECHNOLOGY AND PRODUCT DEMONSTRATIONS: Scalable Quantum-Safe Network Demo This proof-of-concept showcases a quantum-safe networking solution that can be deployed efficiently and at scale without disrupting existing infrastructure. The demo integrates CUbIQs modular CV-QKD transceivers in a QSFP-28 pluggable form factor with Coherents high-performance 400G ZR QSFP-DD DCO optical transceivers and a PTX Series routing platform, delivering high-speed, energy-efficient quantum key distribution over existing fiber networks. Supported by Liberty Globals deployment insights, the demo illustrates a path for telecom operators to future-proof their networks for secure communications. 100G QSFP28-DCO ZR Dual Laser This demo showcases Coherents QSFP28 dual-laser transceiver with separate Tx/Rx tuning, delivering up to 300 km reach with <7W power dissipation. Designed for single-fiber, bi-directional links, it enables 10x capacity gains, doubles fiber inventory, and supports applications from wireless towers to cable TV network expansion. 100G QSFP28-DCO ZR active ingress/egress latency control This demo features Coherents QSFP28 module with active ingress/egress latency control, enabling ultra-low latency variation and Class C Precision Time Protocol accuracy. With synchronization precision down to 10 ns at system level, it supports demanding applications such as telecom networks, industrial automation, and financial trading. External Laser Source Module for CPO This demo showcases Coherents ELSFP compliant module integrating eight high-power 1310 nm lasers, with exceptional wavelength accuracy and linewidth control. Ideal for co-packaged optics (CPO) and DR/FR applications, it provides a reliable, compact external laser source for next-generation optical systems. 1.6T 2xFR4 with 6km reach Coherents 1.6T 2x800G-FR4 transceiver extends the reach from 23 km to 6 km, delivering excellent BER. With a miniature dispersion compensation component inside, this transceiver module demonstrates that IMDD links can support reaches of up to 6 km. 300G/lane link As a milestone towards enabling speeds higher than 200G/lane, Coherent is demonstrating a 300G/lane link. It uses Coherent's Differential EML. Multi-rail technology This demo highlights Coherents multi-rail technology with resource pooling, designed to deliver four times the capacity over existing system reach using deployed fiber. With sub-linear increases in power and volume, a 20-year reliability target, and compliance with safety standards, it enables efficient, scalable growth for future optical networks. TEST AND MEASUREMENT WaveAnalyzer 200B The WaveAnalyzer 200B is the only portable, battery-powered analyzer capable of up to two full sweeps per second across the entire Super C-Band with 650 MHz resolution. It gives fast, precise insight into complex, high-capacity networks, making it ideal for lab research, system installation, and field maintenance. WaveShaper 500B/X The WaveShaper 500B/X delivers unmatched flexibility for production testing of optical transceivers, shaping signal attenuation across the Super C- and L-Bands with over 12.4 THz coverage. With sub-100 ms loading time, it enables high-throughput manufacturing by accelerating testing and reducing cost. WORKSHOP: Which Modulator Technology Will Dominate In Next-Generation Transceivers? Speaker: Po Dong, VP, Silicon Photonics Technology Topic: SiPho vs. InP for high-volume transceivers Sunday, Sep. 28th, 9.00 am -12.30 pm, Auditorium 12 MARKET FOCUS Topic: Modules/sub systems Speaker: Anna Tatarczak, Distinguished Member of Technical Staff Title: How 400G Lanes Will Reshape the Next-Gen Datacenter Market Monday, Sep. 29th, 11:20-11:35 am Topic: Modules/sub systems Speaker: Julie Eng, CTO Title: Advances in optical components, transceivers, and co-packaged optics Monday, Sep. 29th, 1:40-1:55 pm Topic: Modules/sub systems Chair: Sanjai Parthasarathi, CMO Fireside chat with Jose Pozo Speaker: Sanjai Parthasarathi, CMO Title: Can We Deliver What the Market Needs? Manufacturing Challenges of Co-Packaged Optics Monday, Sep. 29th, 4:00-4:30 pm Panel: 1.6T deployment status and outlook for 100T switching Speaker: Sanjai Parthasarathi, CMO Tuesday, Sep. 30th, 3:40-4:30 pm Topic: Networking/systems/Service provider Speaker: Ian McClean, Senior Product Manager Title: Enabling sublinear capacity scaling through multi-rail photonic technology Monday, Sep. 29th, 11:00-11:15 am About Coherent Coherent is the global photonics leader. We harness photons to drive innovation. Industry leaders in the datacenter, communications, and industrial markets rely on Coherents world-leading technology to fuel their own innovation and growth. Founded in 1971 and operating in more than 20 countries, Coherent brings the industrys broadest, deepest technology stack; unmatched supply chain resilience; and global scale to help its customers solve their toughest technology challenges. Visit us at coherent.com. Media Contact: innovations@coherent.com NEW YORK, Sept. 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- WHY: Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, continues to investigate potential securities claims on behalf of shareholders of National Grid plc (NYSE: NGG) resulting from allegations that National Grid plc may have issued materially misleading business information to the investing public. SO WHAT: If you purchased National Grid securities you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out of pocket fees or costs through a contingency fee arrangement. The Rosen Law Firm is preparing a class action seeking recovery of investor losses. WHAT TO DO NEXT: To join the prospective class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=41344 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email case@rosenlegal.com for information on the class action. WHAT IS THIS ABOUT: On July 2, 2025, Reuters published an article entitled Preventable National Grid failures led to Heathrow fire, findings say. The article stated that a fire that shut Londons Heathrow airport in March, stranding thousands of people, was caused by the UK power grids failure to maintain an electricity substation, an official report said on Wednesday, prompting the energy watchdog to open a probe. Further, the article stated that the United Kingdoms Energy minister, Ed Miliband, had called the report deeply concerning, after it concluded that the issue which caused the fire was identified seven years ago but went unaddressed by power grid operator National Grid[.] On this news, National Grids American Depositary Shares (ADSs) fell 5%, on July 2, 2024. WHY ROSEN LAW: We encourage investors to select qualified counsel with a track record of success in leadership roles. Often, firms issuing notices do not have comparable experience, resources, or any meaningful peer recognition. Many of these firms do not actually litigate securities class actions. Be wise in selecting counsel. The Rosen Law Firm represents investors throughout the globe, concentrating its practice in securities class actions and shareholder derivative litigation. Rosen Law Firm achieved the largest ever securities class action settlement against a Chinese Company at the time. At the time Rosen Law Firm was Ranked No. 1 by ISS Securities Class Action Services for number of securities class action settlements in 2017. The firm has been ranked in the top 4 each year since 2013 and has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors. In 2019 alone the firm secured over $438 million for investors. In 2020, founding partner Laurence Rosen was named by law360 as a Titan of Plaintiffs Bar. Many of the firms attorneys have been recognized by Lawdragon and Super Lawyers. Follow us for updates on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-rosen-law-firm, on Twitter: https://twitter.com/rosen_firm or on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rosenlawfirm/. Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. ------------------------------- Contact Information: Laurence Rosen, Esq. Phillip Kim, Esq. The Rosen Law Firm, P.A. 275 Madison Avenue, 40th Floor New York, NY 10016 Tel: (212) 686-1060 Toll Free: (866) 767-3653 Fax: (212) 202-3827 case@rosenlegal.com www.rosenlegal.com New York City, NY, Sept. 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Introduction What is Arctic Valtrix Arctic Valtrix is positioned as a next-generation financial technology platform that integrates algorithmic intelligence, automation, and enhanced security to streamline modern digital trading. Developed with an emphasis on transparency and operational stability, the platform provides infrastructure designed for efficiency across multiple asset classes. Unlike traditional solutions that rely on manual processes, Arctic Valtrix i mplements structured protocols that help maintain precision in executing trades and analyzing data. At its core, Arctic Valtrix applies advanced computing models to evaluate market dynamics , process vast datasets, and deliver actionable outcomes in real time. This systematic approach ensures consistency while reducing operational latency. The platform also includes modules designed to optimize portfolio allocation, risk monitoring, and regulatory complianceelements critical to institutional and individual participants alike. One of the defining attributes of Arctic Valtrix is its multi-layered system architecture, which allows scalability without compromising performance. Its design leverages cloud-based resources in combination with secure local servers, enabling seamless adaptability for different usage levels. This dual framework further ensures continuity even during periods of high demand. By focusing on both technology and security integration, Arctic Valtrix has positioned itself as more than a trading interface. It is engineered as a financial ecosystem that emphasizes efficiency, reliability, and global adaptability. The platform is also structured to meet jurisdictional requirements in regions where it operates, aligning its processes with evolving financial regulations. As the digital economy advances in 2025, Arctic Valtrix stands out by merging intelligent automation with robust compliance and security protocols. This creates a foundation where speed, accuracy, and oversight coexist in balance, representing a forward-looking step in fintech infrastructure. Visit Arctic Valtrix Official Website Arctic Valtrix Features Arctic Valtrix incorporates a wide range of structured features that collectively define its operational framework. These elements are designed to deliver accuracy, consistency, and adaptability across global financial environments. Each feature is engineered to enhance the platforms overall functionality, positioning it as a structured solution for digital trading in 2025. One of its core features is real-time data processing, which allows continuous monitoring of market conditions without lag. This is supported by advanced machine-learning algorithms that adjust to fluctuations, ensuring system output remains relevant and timely. This capability reduces the risk of delay, allowing trading strategies to operate with precision. Another central feature is the multi-asset support framework. Arctic Valtrix provides access to various asset classes, including digital currencies, commodities, indices, and forex pairs. By offering a diversified portfolio environment, it allows users to monitor, evaluate, and adjust their positions within a single secure system. The platform also emphasizes customizable algorithmic configurations, enabling different levels of automation depending on specific goals. These configurations are supported by a user-friendly interface with integrated dashboards, charting tools, and statistical performance trackers. Arctic Valtrix includes security-driven operational safeguards, such as encryption protocols, two-factor authentication, and continuous server monitoring. These features align with compliance standards while also maintaining operational integrity during peak activity. Additionally, the system integrates risk management tools that automatically evaluate exposure levels and adjust strategies based on market data. This allows for structured oversight, reducing the likelihood of over-leveraging or misaligned execution. In combination, these features form a comprehensive environment where speed, transparency, and compliance merge. Arctic Valtrix is built not only to process trades efficiently but also to uphold the standards required in todays fast-evolving financial landscape. Visit The Official Website To Try Arctic Valtrix For Free Arctic Valtrix Security Measures, and Factual Performance Data Security and verifiable performance are central to Arctic Valtrixs operational design. The platform employs multi-tiered defense protocols that safeguard both infrastructure and data, ensuring uninterrupted access while protecting against cyber threats. At the foundation of its security framework is end-to-end encryption, which secures all data transmissions, including login credentials, trading records, and financial transactions. This encryption is combined with multi-factor authentication (MFA), requiring secondary verification during login to reduce risks of unauthorized access. Continuous monitoring systems scan for irregular activity, creating a proactive response layer to potential breaches. From an infrastructure standpoint, Arctic Valtrix utilizes redundant server architecture. This means multiple backups of system data are maintained in secure, geographically distributed locations. In the event of a disruption, operational continuity is preserved with minimal downtime. On performance, Arctic Valtrix provides factual data highlighting system speed and reliability. Internal benchmarking reports indicate an average trade execution time of under one second, aligning with industry standards for low-latency performance. The platform maintains an operational uptime rate of over 99.5%, verified through continuous monitoring, which supports both individual and institutional users requiring stability. Compliance is another integral measure of security. Arctic Valtrix structures its processes in line with Know Your Customer (KYC) and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) requirements in approved jurisdictions. This ensures both legal alignment and user protection. By combining encryption, layered authentication, redundant infrastructure, and verifiable uptime statistics, Arctic Valtrix demonstrates that its framework prioritizes both safety and consistency. This integration of factual performance data and rigorous safeguards reinforces its credibility as a structured financial platform in 2025. Register on the Arctic Valtrix trading application Arctic Valtrix Account Setup Process Step by Step Creating an account on Arctic Valtrix follows a structured process, designed for clarity, accessibility, and compliance. Each stage is streamlined to ensure that individuals and institutions can begin operating securely while meeting regulatory standards. Step 1 Registration Visit the official Arctic Valtrix website . . Locate the registration form and input essential details such as full name, email address, and phone number. Create a strong password for account protection. Step 2 Verification After registration, a confirmation email is sent to verify account authenticity. Users must also upload identification documents, such as a government-issued ID and proof of residence. This process satisfies Know Your Customer (KYC) requirements, ensuring legal compliance. Step 3 Minimum Deposit Requirement Once verified, users are prompted to make an initial deposit. The platforms minimum deposit requirement is set at $250 , aligning with international fintech standards. , aligning with international fintech standards. Deposits can be made via secure payment gateways, including credit/debit cards and bank transfers. Step 4 Account Configuration After funding, users can configure account preferences. Dashboard access includes algorithm settings, portfolio options, and risk-management configurations. Step 5 System Walkthrough A guided tutorial introduces platform features, dashboards, and trading tools. This ensures smooth onboarding before live engagement with the system. Step 6 Activation Once configured, the account becomes fully operational. Users can access supported markets, review performance metrics, and begin structured trading activity. This step-by-step sequence prioritizes transparency, regulatory compliance, and ease of access, providing a streamlined entry point for new participants in 2025. Trade Smarter with Arctic Valtrix Real-Time AI Signals Canada Report Inside How Does Arctic Valtrix Work? Arctic Valtrix operates through a layered combination of artificial intelligence, predictive modeling, and automation. Its system architecture is designed to process market data in real time, assess trends, and execute trades with minimal latency. The core mechanism relies on algorithmic trading models, which evaluate large volumes of information across different asset classes. These models identify patterns and fluctuations, translating them into executable actions. By integrating adaptive learning techniques, Arctic Valtrixs algorithms refine themselves over time, improving output accuracy as markets evolve. The platform is structured around continuous data streams, sourced from global exchanges and financial feeds. This ensures that its decision-making is based on live, verifiable information rather than outdated metrics. Another essential component is the automation engine. Once strategies are configured, the system executes trades without requiring manual oversight, reducing delays and enhancing efficiency. This is supported by risk-monitoring modules, which automatically detect exposure and adjust strategies accordingly. Additionally, Arctic Valtrix incorporates a portfolio optimization framework, distributing capital across multiple assets to minimize risk concentration. Real-time dashboards allow for performance tracking, while automated reports provide detailed breakdowns of outcomes. From a technical standpoint, Arctic Valtrix maintains a low-latency infrastructure, averaging execution speeds below one second. This ensures competitiveness in high-frequency environments while preserving accuracy in standard trading scenarios. In essence, Arctic Valtrix functions as an automated ecosystem, combining artificial intelligence with robust infrastructure. Its operational model is built for efficiency, regulatory alignment, and risk-managed performance across global markets. Discover How Arctic Valtrix is Helping Thousands Achieve Financial Freedom Online From Beginner to Pro: Guided Onboarding, 24/7 Support, and Intuitive Design Arctic Valtrix is designed with a progressive onboarding structure that allows participants of varying experience levels to navigate the platform effectively. The onboarding begins with a guided walkthrough, which introduces users to the dashboard, account settings, and key operational tools. This step ensures that even those with minimal exposure to financial systems can quickly understand how the platform functions. The interface itself is built around intuitive design principles. Core trading functions, market data visualization, and risk management modules are all presented in a streamlined layout, minimizing complexity while retaining depth. Charts, analytics, and system configuration options are accessible from a unified control panel, reducing the need to switch between external tools. To further support adaptability, Arctic Valtrix offers 24/7 multilingual customer assistance. This support covers technical troubleshooting, account configuration, and compliance guidance. The availability of continuous assistance reflects a commitment to operational stability, ensuring that queries are addressed without delay. In addition to direct support, the platform integrates in-system learning modules that provide technical explanations of trading strategies, algorithmic adjustments, and portfolio monitoring tools. This creates a self-sufficient learning loop where users can strengthen their understanding while actively engaging with the system. By combining structured onboarding, user-focused design, and uninterrupted support, Arctic Valtrix bridges the gap between entry-level participants and advanced operators. Its approach demonstrates an emphasis on accessibility without compromising professional-grade features, making it a system engineered to scale alongside its users growing expertise. Why Choose Arctic Valtrix? Canada Consumer Report Released Here Regulated, Transparent, and Secure: Why Arctic Valtrix Earns Trust in 2025 Arctic Valtrix has been architected to align with industry regulatory standards while embedding transparency at its core. In 2025, financial technology platforms face heightened scrutiny, making regulatory alignment not just optional but essential. Arctic Valtrix addresses this by embedding compliance mechanisms across its onboarding, transaction, and reporting processes. The platform enforces Know Your Customer (KYC) and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) protocols during account registration and throughout transactional activity. These measures are integrated to confirm identity, validate financial legitimacy, and prevent misuse. By adhering to such frameworks, Arctic Valtrix not only secures its participants but also positions itself in alignment with jurisdictional requirements worldwide. Transparency is maintained through real-time reporting modules. These modules allow users to access structured transaction records, performance breakdowns, and compliance confirmations at any stage. Data logs are stored securely and remain available for verification, reinforcing accountability. From a security perspective, Arctic Valtrix incorporates multi-layer encryption protocols and continuous monitoring of server infrastructure. This ensures that system reliability is maintained even under high network demand or external threat attempts. Together, regulation, transparency, and security establish Arctic Valtrixs credibility in 2025. Rather than operating as a closed system, it functions with openness and documented compliance, offering reassurance in a global financial environment where oversight and trust are paramount. Arctic Valtrix Cost, Minimum Deposit, and Profit The financial framework of Arctic Valtrix is structured to remain transparent and consistent . At the entry level, the minimum deposit requirement is set at $250, a threshold designed to balance accessibility with industry-standard financial engagement. This initial funding allows new users to activate their accounts and begin operating within the system. In terms of cost, Arctic Valtrix maintains a straightforward fee structure. Deposits and withdrawals are processed through secure gateways, with standard financial network charges applied where applicable. The platform itself does not impose hidden fees, instead prioritizing clear communication on transaction-related costs. Profit within the Arctic Valtrix environment is determined by algorithmic performance, asset fluctuations, and portfolio configurations. While the platform provides tools designed for efficiency and risk management, profits remain contingent upon market conditions. Arctic Valtrix does not present profit guarantees but instead supplies the infrastructure through which automated strategies can operate at scale. To support sustainability, profit and performance data are tracked through automated reporting systems. These reports provide detailed breakdowns of gains, losses, and portfolio distribution, offering users transparency over financial outcomes. This structured approach ensures that participants are fully aware of the deposit requirements, operational costs, and performance reporting processes before engaging. By clarifying these elements upfront, Arctic Valtrix reinforces its positioning as a platform built around transparency, accountability, and informed financial participation. Open Your Arctic Valtrix Account for Free Now Countries Where Arctic Valtrix Is Legal Arctic Valtrix operates under a framework that aligns with the legal requirements of the jurisdictions in which it is active. The platform is accessible in regions where financial technology regulations permit algorithmic and automated trading solutions, provided they meet compliance obligations such as KYC and AML. In North America/Canada, Arctic Valtrix is accessible in jurisdictions where digital asset trading is authorized under structured guidelines. It maintains compliance with federal and regional oversight, ensuring alignment with evolving regulatory frameworks. In Europe, the platform operates in countries adhering to the Markets in Financial Instruments Directive (MiFID II) and equivalent frameworks. This ensures that transparency, reporting, and investor protection standards are met. In Asia-Pacific, availability is determined by localized regulations, particularly in financial hubs where fintech innovation is supported by licensing regimes. Regions with established oversightsuch as Australia and certain parts of Southeast Asiaare primary areas of operation. In Latin America and Africa, Arctic Valtrix is accessible in select jurisdictions with supportive fintech environments. Each engagement is subject to adherence to regional financial regulations. By clarifying its operational boundaries, Arctic Valtrix emphasizes its commitment to lawful activity. It maintains structured compliance, ensuring that the system is only deployed in markets where its model aligns with both regulatory frameworks and financial infrastructure requirements. Unlock smarter trading with Arctic Valtrix Visit the Official Website Here Arctic Valtrix Supported Assets Arctic Valtrix is structured to provide access to a diversified range of financial assets, enabling comprehensive portfolio allocation from a single platform. This multi-asset framework reflects the platforms adaptability to evolving market conditions and investor preferences. The supported asset classes include: Digital Currencies : Major cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and established altcoins. The platform integrates live price feeds and algorithmic tools designed to navigate volatility in the digital asset sector. : Major cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, and established altcoins. The platform integrates live price feeds and algorithmic tools designed to navigate volatility in the digital asset sector. Forex Pairs : Arctic Valtrix supports trading of widely recognized currency pairs, including both major and minor pairs. The inclusion of forex markets provides exposure to global economic movements and exchange rate fluctuations. : Arctic Valtrix supports trading of widely recognized currency pairs, including both major and minor pairs. The inclusion of forex markets provides exposure to global economic movements and exchange rate fluctuations. Commodities : Key commodities such as gold, silver, and crude oil are available for structured engagement. These assets serve as portfolio stabilizers, particularly in periods of heightened market uncertainty. : Key commodities such as gold, silver, and crude oil are available for structured engagement. These assets serve as portfolio stabilizers, particularly in periods of heightened market uncertainty. Indices: The platform provides access to leading global indices, allowing for exposure to broader market performance rather than individual securities. Each asset class is integrated within the platforms automated framework, enabling algorithmic execution, real-time monitoring, and diversified allocation. By offering structured access to multiple asset classes within one environment, Arctic Valtrix provides participants with tools for both diversification and risk management. This consolidated model eliminates the need for multiple platforms while maintaining transparency and accuracy across different markets. Hidden Risks of Arctic Valtrix What Every Investor Should Know While Arctic Valtrix integrates advanced safeguards and automation , it is essential to recognize the inherent risks associated with algorithm-driven financial platforms. One of the primary risks stems from market volatility, particularly within digital asset trading. Even with advanced models, external market conditions can cause fluctuations that affect portfolio outcomes. Another risk arises from system dependency on automation. While automation minimizes human error, it also removes the flexibility of manual intervention during sudden events. Over-reliance on automated models can result in unexpected outcomes if strategies are not regularly adjusted. There are also jurisdictional risks to consider. Arctic Valtrix operates in compliance with legal frameworks where permitted, but regulations evolve. Changes in local or international financial laws may affect accessibility or require additional compliance measures. Cybersecurity, though heavily addressed within the platform, also presents an unavoidable consideration. Despite multi-layer protection and continuous monitoring, no system is entirely immune to external threats. Finally, users should recognize that while the platform provides algorithmic strategies, profit is not guaranteed. Market dynamics, portfolio design, and external economic shifts all influence returns. By highlighting these risks openly, Arctic Valtrix reinforces its transparency-first approach. Acknowledging limitations ensures that participants engage with a full understanding of potential challenges inherent in digital financial systems. Visit Arctic Valtrix Official Website Arctic Valtrix Breakdown: Algorithms, Returns & Safety Measures The operational model of Arctic Valtrix revolves around a three-tier framework: algorithms, performance monitoring, and embedded safety measures. Together, these components define how the platform processes trades and safeguards participant interests. The algorithmic engine is the platforms foundation. It employs predictive modeling and adaptive learning to identify trading opportunities across supported asset classes. These algorithms adjust continuously based on live market inputs, aiming to maintain accuracy as conditions evolve. Performance outcomes are tracked through returns monitoring tools. Arctic Valtrix integrates reporting dashboards that detail profit, loss, and exposure metrics, ensuring factual oversight. This transparency in returns is a core part of the systems trust structure. To balance performance with safety, the platform embeds risk management protocols. These include automated stop-loss mechanisms, exposure caps, and portfolio diversification strategies. The system actively monitors positions and can reallocate resources to mitigate concentrated risks. In addition, safety is reinforced by real-time anomaly detection. This module scans transactions and algorithm outputs for irregularities, ensuring operational integrity is preserved. By merging adaptive algorithms with transparent returns reporting and robust safety measures, Arctic Valtrix establishes itself as a structured fintech framework designed for both efficiency and accountability. Arctic Valtrix Final Verdict Arctic Valtrix emerges in 2025 as a financial technology framework that integrates automation, regulatory alignment , and operational transparency. It is built as an ecosystem where algorithmic intelligence, real-time data processing, and risk safeguards converge into a structured platform. Its defining attributes include advanced algorithms, a multi-asset environment, encryption-driven security, and transparent reporting systems. These elements work collectively to ensure efficiency without sacrificing accountability. With an uptime rate exceeding 99.5% and execution speeds below one second, the platform demonstrates factual reliability in technical performance. While it presents numerous advantages, Arctic Valtrix acknowledges risks inherent to financial markets. Market volatility, regulatory changes, and reliance on automation remain considerations that participants must recognize. By communicating these risks openly, the platform maintains a transparency-first model. Ultimately, Arctic Valtrix positions itself as a forward-looking solution engineered for efficiency, compliance, and adaptability in the evolving global financial landscape. Its structured design underscores a commitment to combining innovation with accountability, setting a benchmark for fintech systems in 2025. Visit Here to Register on the Arctic Valtrix - Select Your Country Here!!! Contact:- Arctic Valtrix 485 Bd de la Gappe, Gatineau, QC J8T 5T9, Canada Phone Support: Arctic Valtrix Canada: +1 (437) 920-9751 Trading Assistance: +1 (437) 169-3417 Email: info@arcticvaltrix.com Website: https://arcticvaltrix.com/ General Disclaimer: The content provided in this article is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute financial, legal, or professional advice. Readers are advised to consult a certified financial advisor, licensed loan officer, or legal professional before making any financial decisions. The information presented may not apply to every individual circumstance and is not intended to substitute professional judgment or regulatory guidance. The information provided on this website does not constitute investment advice, financial advice, trading advice, or any other sort of advice and you should not treat any of the website's content as such. We does not recommend that any cryptocurrency should be bought, sold, or held by you. Do conduct your own due diligence and consult your financial advisor before making any investment decisions. Trading Disclaimer: Trading cryptocurrencies carries a high level of risk, and may not be suitable for all investors. Before deciding to trade cryptocurrency you should carefully consider your investment objectives, level of experience, and risk appetite. The possibility exists that you could sustain a loss of some or all of your initial investment and therefore you should not invest money that you cannot afford to lose. You should be aware of all the risks associated with cryptocurrency trading, and seek advice from an independent financial advisor. ICO's, IEO's, STO's and any other form of offering will not guarantee a return on your investment. HIGH RISK WARNING: Dealing or Trading FX, CFDs and Cryptocurrencies is highly speculative, carries a level of non-negligible risk and may not be suitable for all investors. You may lose some or all of your invested capital, therefore you should not speculate with capital that you cannot afford to lose. Please refer to the risk disclosure below. Arctic Valtrix does not gain or lose profits based on your activity and operates as a services company. Arctic Valtrix is not a financial services firm and is not eligible of providing financial advice. Therefore, Arctic Valtrix shall not be liable for any losses occurred via or in relation to this informational website. SITE RISK DISCLOSURE: Arctic Valtrix does not accept any liability for loss or damage as a result of reliance on the information contained within this website; this includes education material, price quotes and charts, and analysis. Please be aware of and seek professional advice for the risks associated with trading the financial markets; never invest more money than you can risk losing. The risks involved in FX, CFDs and Cryptocurrencies may not be suitable for all investors. Arctic Valtrix doesn''t retain responsibility for any trading losses you might face as a result of using or inferring from the data hosted on this site. LEGAL RESTRICTIONS: Without limiting the above mentioned provisions, you understand that laws regarding financial activities vary throughout the world, and it is your responsibility to make sure you properly comply with any law, regulation or guideline in your country of residence regarding the use of the Site. To avoid any doubt, the ability to access our Site does not necessarily mean that our Services and/or your activities through the Site are legal under the laws, regulations or directives relevant to your country of residence. It is against the law to solicit UK individuals to buy and sell commodity options, even if they are called "prediction" contracts, unless they are listed for trading and traded on a CFTC-registered exchange unless legally exempt. The Financial Conduct Authority has issued a policy statement PS20/10, which prohibits the sale, promotion, and distribution of CFD on Crypto assets. It prohibits the dissemination of marketing materials relating to distribution of CFDs and other financial products based on Cryptocurrencies that addressed to United Kingdom residents. The provision of trading services involving any MiFID II financial instruments is prohibited in the EU, unless when authorized/licensed by the applicable authorities and/or regulator(s). Please note that we may receive advertising fees for users opted to open an account with our partner advertisers via advertisers websites. We have placed cookies on your computer to help improve your experience when visiting this website. You can change cookie settings on your computer at any time. Use of this website indicates your acceptance of this website. Please be advised that the names depicted on our website, including but not limited to Arctic Valtrix, are strictly for marketing and illustrative purposes. These names do not represent or imply the existence of specific entities, service providers, or any real-life individuals. Furthermore, the pictures and/or videos presented on our website are purely promotional in nature and feature professional actors. These actors are not actual users, clients, or traders, and their depictions should not be interpreted as endorsements or representations of real-life experiences. All content is intended solely for illustrative purposes and should not be construed as factual or as forming any legally binding relationship RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH FUTURES TRADING Futures transactions involve high risk. The amount of the initial margin is low compared to the value of the futures contract, so that transactions are "leveraged" or "geared". A relatively small market movement has a proportionately larger impact on the funds that you have deposited or have to pay: this can work both for you and against you. You may experience the total loss of the initial margin funds as well as any additional funds deposited in the system. If the market develops in a way that is contrary to your position or if margins are increased, you may be asked to pay significant additional funds at short notice to maintain your position. In this case it may also happen that your broker account is in the red and you thus have to make payments beyond the initial investment. RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH ELECTRONIC TRADING Before you begin carrying out transactions with an electronic system, you should carefully review the rules and provisions of the stock exchange offering the system, or of the financial instruments listed that you intend to trade, as well as your broker's conditions. Online trading has inherent risks due to system responses/reaction times and access times that may vary due to market conditions, system performance and other factors, and on which you have no influence. You should be aware of these additional risks in electronic trading before you carry out investment transactions. Accuracy Disclaimer: All information included in this article is presented in good faith and believed to be accurate at the time of writing. However, no representations or warranties are made regarding the completeness, accuracy, reliability, or timeliness of any information presented. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader's own risk. The publisher does not accept responsibility for typographical errors, outdated information, or changes to products, terms, or policies after publication. Regulatory and Jurisdictional Disclaimer: Lending laws vary by jurisdiction, and not all services described in this article may be available in every state or region. It is the responsibility of the reader to understand and comply with local laws and regulations. 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Attachment New York City, NY, Sept. 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Introduction What is Surela Tradex Surela Tradex is positioned as a next-generation digital trading platform designed to combine automation, artificial intelligence, and compliance into one streamlined environment. Built on cloud-based infrastructure, it delivers high-speed trade execution while maintaining rigorous adherence to regulatory frameworks. The system is engineered to provide algorithmic accuracy, giving investors access to market opportunities without manual delays. The platform is structured to handle multiple asset classes, including cryptocurrencies, forex pairs, indices, and commodities. Its AI core continuously processes market signals, interpreting real-time data with predictive modeling to refine strategies and reduce latency. This architecture ensures transactions are conducted with both precision and efficiency. What sets Surela Tradex apart is its emphasis on infrastructure stability and security . Its deployment of advanced encryption standards, multi-factor authentication, and constant uptime monitoring reinforces trust among global users. The platform is also designed for scalability, capable of managing surges in trade volume without performance bottlenecks. By focusing on regulated structures, factual performance benchmarks, and an intuitive interface, Surela Tradex aims to bridge the gap between technological sophistication and compliance in financial markets. It is not positioned as a speculative trend but rather as an operational system built to support transparent, rule-driven trading in 2025 and beyond. Visit Surela Tradex Official Website Surela Tradex Features Surela Tradex integrates a suite of features designed to optimize digital asset trading across multiple markets. Central to its framework is the AI-driven trading engine, which leverages advanced algorithms to process real-time data. This engine continuously scans thousands of data points, enabling faster and more precise decision-making without the inefficiencies of manual execution. The platform incorporates a dynamic dashboard that provides users with complete visibility over market activity. Live charts, automated indicators, and customizable signal alerts are built directly into the interface, allowing participants to track price movements and adjust strategies with factual accuracy. The system also supports multiple order types, including market, limit, and stop-loss orders, ensuring flexibility in execution. Another notable feature is its multi-asset accessibility. Traders can access a diverse range of instruments, including cryptocurrencies, equities, commodities, and foreign exchange. This broad selection allows portfolio diversification within a single platform while maintaining uniform standards of execution and reporting. Performance reliability is also a key feature. With near-zero downtime, Surela Tradex ensures uninterrupted operation, even during high-volume trading periods. API integration further enhances efficiency, enabling connectivity with external tools and third-party applications for professional-grade usage. By combining automated intelligence, diverse instruments, and institutional-level stability, Surela Tradex positions itself as a technically advanced hub for global trading activities in 2025. Visit The Official Website To Try Surela Tradex For Free Surela Tradex Security Measures and Factual Performance Data Surela Tradex integrates layered security protocols designed to safeguard transactions, data, and user accounts. The platform employs AES-256 encryption, one of the highest standards in cybersecurity, ensuring that all communication and sensitive information remain inaccessible to unauthorized parties. Multi-factor authentication is enforced at login, reducing risks associated with password breaches. In addition to encryption, the system incorporates continuous monitoring protocols. All trading activities are logged and verified by automated compliance tools, which assess unusual patterns and mitigate fraud attempts in real time. Secure socket layer (SSL) certificates are applied across all domains, providing an additional shield during data transmission. From a factual performance standpoint, Surela Tradex operates with uptime rates above 99.8%, ensuring reliability across time zones and market conditions. Order execution speeds are measured in milliseconds, delivering latency levels comparable to leading institutional trading environments. These benchmarks are independently tested across high-volume scenarios, demonstrating scalability and consistency. The platforms data centers are distributed across multiple jurisdictions, equipped with redundancy mechanisms to prevent downtime during maintenance or unexpected outages. This ensures uninterrupted market access, even under peak conditions. By merging stringent security with proven operational metrics, Surela Tradex establishes itself as a resilient and transparent digital infrastructure. It demonstrates measurable outcomes, not claims, with factual evidence of stability, safety, and execution speed forming its technical foundation. Trade Smarter with Surela Tradex Real-Time AI Signals Australia Report Inside Surela Tradex Account Setup Process Step by Step Opening an account on Surela Tradex follows a structured and transparent procedure, designed for regulatory compliance and operational clarity. The process can be broken down into straightforward steps: Step 1: Registration Form Visit the official Surela Tradex website and complete the secure registration form by providing full name, email address, and phone number. website and complete the secure registration form by providing full name, email address, and phone number. Step 2: Verification Submit government-issued identification documents for identity verification. This step ensures compliance with Know Your Customer (KYC) regulations. Submit government-issued identification documents for identity verification. This step ensures compliance with Know Your Customer (KYC) regulations. Step 3: Account Approval Once documents are reviewed and verified, the account is activated, granting access to the trading dashboard. Once documents are reviewed and verified, the account is activated, granting access to the trading dashboard. Step 4: Initial Deposit The minimum deposit requirement begins at $250 USD , processed through secure payment gateways. Deposits can be made via credit/debit card, bank transfer, or approved e-wallets. The minimum deposit requirement begins at , processed through secure payment gateways. Deposits can be made via credit/debit card, bank transfer, or approved e-wallets. Step 5: Dashboard Access After funding the account, users gain entry to the full suite of tools, including AI-driven strategies, live charts, and supported assets. After funding the account, users gain entry to the full suite of tools, including AI-driven strategies, live charts, and supported assets. Step 6: Trading Activation The system allows placement of demo trades for familiarization before moving to live positions. The system allows placement of demo trades for familiarization before moving to live positions. Step 7: Ongoing Account Management Accounts can be managed via the intuitive dashboard, with options for withdrawal, deposits, and portfolio adjustments. This structured process ensures compliance, accessibility, and security at every stage of onboarding. How Does Surela Tradex Work? Surela Tradex operates on a hybrid model that combines artificial intelligence , algorithmic precision, and regulatory alignment. At its core, the system deploys predictive AI models trained on historical market data, which are continuously updated with live feeds. These models generate real-time trading signals, detecting micro-movements in price fluctuations across supported markets. The algorithm executes orders with sub-second latency, minimizing exposure to slippage and market inefficiency. Risk management tools are embedded into the engine, automatically adjusting position sizes and stop-loss placements to align with predetermined parameters. This reduces volatility exposure while maintaining opportunities for return. Data aggregation is another cornerstone of the Surela Tradex workflow. The platform draws information from global exchanges, liquidity providers, and macroeconomic indicators. These datasets are synthesized into actionable strategies, enabling scalability without human intervention. Compliance remains central to how the system works. Each executed trade is logged and timestamped for audit purposes, aligning with international standards. Transparency tools within the dashboard provide real-time visibility into open positions, executed orders, and historical performance. In practice, Surela Tradex functions as a closed-loop automated system collecting data, processing it through AI models, and executing trades with documented precision. This ensures that the operational backbone is factual, transparent, and measurable. Register on the Surela Tradex trading application From Beginner to Pro: Guided Onboarding, 24/7 Support, and Intuitive Design Surela Tradex has been developed with structured onboarding that ensures all participants, regardless of experience level, can navigate the system effectively. Guided tutorials and an interactive dashboard provide explanations of features, order types, and risk controls in a step-by-step format. This structured onboarding ensures that regulatory requirements are also clearly communicated from the beginning. The platform integrates 24/7 multilingual support to address technical queries and operational requirements. Support channels are available through live chat, secure email, and direct ticket systems, ensuring rapid resolution and continuous system reliability. Its interface design is built around clarity and usability. Market charts, AI signals, and execution controls are arranged in a streamlined grid layout, reducing clutter and promoting efficiency. Professional-grade tools remain accessible but are layered within an intuitive environment, ensuring both novice and advanced participants can utilize the system effectively. This combination of guided onboarding, continuous technical support, and intuitive design reinforces Surela Tradexs operational vision: a fully compliant yet accessible system that scales from beginner traders to institutional-grade professionals. Regulated, Transparent, and Secure: Why Surela Tradex Earns Trust in 2025 Surela Tradex is structured around regulatory co mpliance, ensuring operations remain transparent and accountable. The platform complies with Know Your Customer (KYC) and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) protocols, requiring verified identities before account activation. This ensures alignment with international financial standards. Transparency is delivered through comprehensive reporting tools. Every executed order, open position, and historical performance record is accessible directly from the dashboard, minimizing ambiguity and reinforcing factual visibility. Regular audits are conducted on system integrity and algorithmic performance, with reports made available for compliance verification. Security infrastructure remains a top priority. Multi-layer encryption, firewalls, and intrusion detection systems protect both user data and market activity. Distributed servers with backup redundancy ensure uninterrupted operation across jurisdictions. In 2025, Surela Tradex distinguishes itself through adherence to measurable performance standards. Execution speed benchmarks, uptime percentages, and compliance certifications are publicly verifiable, enabling external validation. This commitment to transparent disclosure demonstrates the platforms intent to earn and maintain trust through factual proof rather than speculative claims. Why Choose Surela Tradex? Australia Consumer Report Released Here Surela Tradex Cost, Minimum Deposit, and Profit Surela Tradex maintains a transparent cost structure with no hidden fees. Account registration is free, and operational costs are disclosed in advance. The minimum deposit required to activate a live account is $250 USD, aligning with global accessibility standards while ensuring compliance with international finance protocols. Profit potential is structured within algorithmic boundaries. The AI engine executes trades according to programmed strategies, factoring in risk management tools such as stop-losses and adjustable leverage. While returns are dependent on market conditions, the platform emphasizes measurable execution speed and factual accuracy, minimizing slippage that can reduce profitability. Withdrawal fees and processing times are also disclosed. Requests are generally processed within 24 hours, depending on banking institutions and regional compliance rules. There are no undisclosed commissions or platform-level charges, reinforcing cost transparency. In practice, the financial structure of Surela Tradex is built around three pillars: low entry deposit, clear profit frameworks, and transparent operational costs. This ensures that all participants understand the financial obligations and expected structures before initiating live trades. Open Your Surela Tradex Account for Free Now Countries Where Surela Tradex Is Legal Surela Tradex operates within a compliance framework that determines its availability across jurisdictions. The platform is accessible in regions where digital trading regulations permit the operation of AI-driven financial systems under KYC and AML protocols. Countries with established regulatory frameworks for online trading including Australia, the United Kingdom, Germany, Canada, and parts of Asia are supported. Operations in these regions are aligned with local compliance standards, ensuring that account creation and transaction handling adhere to domestic laws. In regions where digital trading regulations are still under development or restrictive, access may be limited. Surela Tradex maintains geo-blocking protocols to prevent unauthorized activity in such jurisdictions, reinforcing its adherence to international regulatory expectations. The platforms jurisdictional structure demonstrates its commitment to transparent operations, limiting access only to countries where digital trading is legally recognized. This safeguards the systems integrity and ensures compliance with evolving financial landscapes globally. Unlock smarter trading with Surela Tradex Visit the Official Website Here Surela Tradex Supported Assets Surela Tradex provides access to a wide array of asset classes, creating opportunities for diversified trading within a single infrastructure. Supported assets include: Cryptocurrencies Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, Ripple, and emerging altcoins. Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, Ripple, and emerging altcoins. Forex Major, minor, and selected exotic currency pairs. Major, minor, and selected exotic currency pairs. Commodities Precious metals, energy contracts, and agricultural products. Precious metals, energy contracts, and agricultural products. Indices Global market indices reflecting economic performance. Global market indices reflecting economic performance. Equities Selected company stocks integrated through secure feeds. The system applies consistent AI modeling across all asset classes, ensuring execution speed and transparency regardless of instrument. Data from global exchanges and liquidity providers are aggregated, enabling factual reporting and efficient performance monitoring. This broad spectrum of supported assets enables Surela Tradex to function as a comprehensive trading hub, supporting both diversification and compliance-driven operations. Hidden Risks of Surela Tradex What Every Investor Should Know While Surela Tradex emphasizes security and compliance, certain risks inherent to digital trading remain. Market volatility can influence outcomes regardless of algorithmic precision. Price fluctuations in cryptocurrencies, forex, and commodities can lead to unexpected exposure, and no system can entirely eliminate the unpredictability of markets. Algorithmic trading also carries technical risks. While uptime exceeds 99.8%, rare disruptions or latency spikes may occur due to server maintenance or external data provider issues. Backup systems are in place, but short-term interruptions remain possible. Regulatory landscapes also pose risks. As global jurisdictions adjust their stance on AI-driven trading, compliance requirements may evolve. Users operating across borders must ensure adherence to local legal frameworks. It is essential to note that Surela Tradex manages risks through transparency, layered security, and documented compliance. However, the inherent risks of market volatility, technical factors, and regulatory evolution remain factual considerations for any trading platform. Visit Surela Tradex Official Website Surela Tradex Breakdown: Algorithms, Returns & Safety Measures Surela Tradex deploys advanced algorithmic models that operate on predictive analytics. These algorithms are designed to identify patterns across high-volume datasets, generating trading signals in milliseconds. The models are adaptive, recalibrating strategies as new data enters the system. Returns are influenced by the efficiency of these algorithms and the accuracy of execution. While profitability cannot be guaranteed, factual performance data demonstrates low latency, high order fill rates, and minimized slippage. These measurable factors contribute to improved trading outcomes under favorable market conditions. Safety measures are embedded at every stage. Automated stop-loss functions, position sizing controls, and leverage limits are part of the core system design. Multi-layer cybersecurity protocols, data encryption, and compliance auditing further secure the environment. This breakdown highlights the interplay between algorithms, factual returns data, and structured safety measures. Together, they form the technical backbone that defines Surela Tradexs operational integrity in 2025. Full Risk Assessment: Transparency and Trust with Surela Tradex Surela Tradex conducts a full-spectrum risk assessment across its infrastructure and operational framework. Each component from data encryption to algorithmic design undergoes internal audits to ensure alignment with international compliance standards. Transparency is achieved through real-time reporting, allowing users to verify open positions, closed trades, and historical logs directly within the dashboard. Independent audits of system integrity and execution speed are also performed periodically, with factual results used to enhance algorithmic performance. Trust is reinforced by the platforms policy of disclosing all operational costs, security protocols, and performance metrics. Rather than making speculative claims, Surela Tradex provides measurable benchmarks, including uptime percentages, latency tests, and compliance certifications. This level of transparency allows the platform to position itself as a reliable trading environment, emphasizing documentation and accountability as its foundation. Surela Tradex Final Verdict Surela Tradex presents itself as a structured, compliant, and technologically advanced platform designed for global markets in 2025. Its integration of AI-driven algorithms, multi-asset access, and robust security infrastructure forms a comprehensive operational model. The platforms commitment to transparency is evident through documented performance benchmarks, detailed compliance protocols, and disclosed cost structures. Its architecture demonstrates stability with near-perfect uptime, sub-second execution speeds, and adaptive strategies that function across volatile conditions. From onboarding to daily operations, the system maintains regulatory alignment, factual reporting, and multi-layer cybersecurity. While inherent risks exist within all forms of digital trading, Surela Tradex mitigates these through safety mechanisms, transparency, and technical resilience. As a result, Surela Tradex positions itself not as a speculative offering but as a measurable, structured, and compliance-driven system that reflects the evolving standards of digital trading in 2025. Visit Here to Register on the Surela Tradex - Select Your Country Here!!! Contact:- Surela Tradex 485 Bd de la Gappe, Gatineau, QC J8T 5T9, Canada Phone Support: Surela Tradex Canada: +1 (437) 920-9751 Trading Assistance: +1 (437) 169-3417 Email: support@surelatradex.net Website: https://surelatradex.net/ General Disclaimer: The content provided in this article is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute financial, legal, or professional advice. Readers are advised to consult a certified financial advisor, licensed loan officer, or legal professional before making any financial decisions. The information presented may not apply to every individual circumstance and is not intended to substitute professional judgment or regulatory guidance. The information provided on this website does not constitute investment advice, financial advice, trading advice, or any other sort of advice and you should not treat any of the website's content as such. We does not recommend that any cryptocurrency should be bought, sold, or held by you. Do conduct your own due diligence and consult your financial advisor before making any investment decisions. Trading Disclaimer: Trading cryptocurrencies carries a high level of risk, and may not be suitable for all investors. Before deciding to trade cryptocurrency you should carefully consider your investment objectives, level of experience, and risk appetite. The possibility exists that you could sustain a loss of some or all of your initial investment and therefore you should not invest money that you cannot afford to lose. You should be aware of all the risks associated with cryptocurrency trading, and seek advice from an independent financial advisor. ICO's, IEO's, STO's and any other form of offering will not guarantee a return on your investment. HIGH RISK WARNING: Dealing or Trading FX, CFDs and Cryptocurrencies is highly speculative, carries a level of non-negligible risk and may not be suitable for all investors. You may lose some or all of your invested capital, therefore you should not speculate with capital that you cannot afford to lose. Please refer to the risk disclosure below. Surela Tradex does not gain or lose profits based on your activity and operates as a services company. Surela Tradex is not a financial services firm and is not eligible of providing financial advice. Therefore, Surela Tradex shall not be liable for any losses occurred via or in relation to this informational website. SITE RISK DISCLOSURE: Surela Tradex does not accept any liability for loss or damage as a result of reliance on the information contained within this website; this includes education material, price quotes and charts, and analysis. Please be aware of and seek professional advice for the risks associated with trading the financial markets; never invest more money than you can risk losing. The risks involved in FX, CFDs and Cryptocurrencies may not be suitable for all investors. Surela Tradex doesn''t retain responsibility for any trading losses you might face as a result of using or inferring from the data hosted on this site. LEGAL RESTRICTIONS: Without limiting the above mentioned provisions, you understand that laws regarding financial activities vary throughout the world, and it is your responsibility to make sure you properly comply with any law, regulation or guideline in your country of residence regarding the use of the Site. To avoid any doubt, the ability to access our Site does not necessarily mean that our Services and/or your activities through the Site are legal under the laws, regulations or directives relevant to your country of residence. It is against the law to solicit UK individuals to buy and sell commodity options, even if they are called "prediction" contracts, unless they are listed for trading and traded on a CFTC-registered exchange unless legally exempt. The Financial Conduct Authority has issued a policy statement PS20/10, which prohibits the sale, promotion, and distribution of CFD on Crypto assets. It prohibits the dissemination of marketing materials relating to distribution of CFDs and other financial products based on Cryptocurrencies that addressed to United Kingdom residents. The provision of trading services involving any MiFID II financial instruments is prohibited in the EU, unless when authorized/licensed by the applicable authorities and/or regulator(s). Please note that we may receive advertising fees for users opted to open an account with our partner advertisers via advertisers websites. We have placed cookies on your computer to help improve your experience when visiting this website. You can change cookie settings on your computer at any time. Use of this website indicates your acceptance of this website. Please be advised that the names depicted on our website, including but not limited to Surela Tradex, are strictly for marketing and illustrative purposes. These names do not represent or imply the existence of specific entities, service providers, or any real-life individuals. Furthermore, the pictures and/or videos presented on our website are purely promotional in nature and feature professional actors. These actors are not actual users, clients, or traders, and their depictions should not be interpreted as endorsements or representations of real-life experiences. All content is intended solely for illustrative purposes and should not be construed as factual or as forming any legally binding relationship RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH FUTURES TRADING Futures transactions involve high risk. The amount of the initial margin is low compared to the value of the futures contract, so that transactions are "leveraged" or "geared". A relatively small market movement has a proportionately larger impact on the funds that you have deposited or have to pay: this can work both for you and against you. You may experience the total loss of the initial margin funds as well as any additional funds deposited in the system. If the market develops in a way that is contrary to your position or if margins are increased, you may be asked to pay significant additional funds at short notice to maintain your position. In this case it may also happen that your broker account is in the red and you thus have to make payments beyond the initial investment. RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH ELECTRONIC TRADING Before you begin carrying out transactions with an electronic system, you should carefully review the rules and provisions of the stock exchange offering the system, or of the financial instruments listed that you intend to trade, as well as your broker's conditions. Online trading has inherent risks due to system responses/reaction times and access times that may vary due to market conditions, system performance and other factors, and on which you have no influence. You should be aware of these additional risks in electronic trading before you carry out investment transactions. Accuracy Disclaimer: All information included in this article is presented in good faith and believed to be accurate at the time of writing. However, no representations or warranties are made regarding the completeness, accuracy, reliability, or timeliness of any information presented. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader's own risk. The publisher does not accept responsibility for typographical errors, outdated information, or changes to products, terms, or policies after publication. Regulatory and Jurisdictional Disclaimer: Lending laws vary by jurisdiction, and not all services described in this article may be available in every state or region. It is the responsibility of the reader to understand and comply with local laws and regulations. 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Attachment Government reformers for years have been talking about creating citizen-centric services, organized around citizen needs, not around the convenience of bureaucrats.For years, it has been just that - talk.There are now real life examples of where services are actually being integrated on a large scale across programs, across agencies, and across levels of government. New York City's " Access NYC ," which integrates the delivery of more than 35 social services programs, may be one of the most prominent examples in the U.S. But this is a global phenomenon. In fact, other countries are more advanced in many respects and there are lessons that can be learned from their experiences that can be applied here in the U.S. recent report from the IBM Center for The Business of Government by two Canadian professors, Jeffrey Roy and John Langford, examines this evolving phenomenon.Public services are traditionally delivered through a number of government agencies via programs that are not connected to each other. In the midst of this decentralized fragmentation, two trends - a citizen-centric philosophy and network model of service delivery - are now driving global demand to integrate the delivery of citizen-oriented services across levels of government. The rapid increase in technology allows this new collaborative approach to service design and delivery to be a successful substitute for the old hierarchical approach.Roy and Langford examined the experiences of Canada and four other countries in their attempts to integrate the delivery of citizen-oriented services. They identified a set of strategies and conclude that at a minimum, governments leaders - both political and career -- need to embrace a mindset of interdependence if they hope to chart a comprehensive vision of integrating the delivery of citizen-oriented services.The Canadian experience is probably the most akin to the U.S. because of they also have a federal system of government. Canada's efforts largely started at the federal level and were then built upon by provinces and some large municipalities. The Canadian federal government's "Government On-Line" initiative started in 1999. It was designed to provide Canadians with electronic access to key federal programs and services. The initiative focused on grouping online services around citizen's needs and priorities, rather than by government structures.This effort eventually evolved into today's " Service Canada " Initiative, which launched in 2005. This serves as the Government of Canada's flagship service delivery vehicle to improve the interface between the federal government and the public through more integrated and innovative service offerings - on line, on the phone, and in person.Parallel to federal efforts, each of the ten Canadian provinces created similar service integration ventures. However, they had some variations in scope and governance structures. For example: Service New Brunswick - forged service agreements with provincial and municipal governments to provide a single point of entry for citizens and businesses to access services across the province. Service BC -established a partnership between the Province of British Columbia and private sector organizations to develop a multi-channel delivery network that encourages electronic delivery of services in more efficient and integrated ways. Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations - established a separate ministry which was responsible for managing the interface of external delivery channels between the province and its citizens. It also links to municipal services, as well.Even with this progress, presenting a "single face" to the public has been challenging.Canada's key challenge in integrating federal and provincial initiatives has been to figure out how to retain the benefits of political federalism while creating additional value by adopting a more collaborative approach to integrating the delivery of public services. Traditionally, a federal form of government ensures political independence and separation between levels of government. Achieving integration of the delivery of business services on-line, however, requires the creation of cross-jurisdictional governance mechanisms.The experiences of four other countries in implementing integrated service delivery systems may be instructive. Each country used a different strategy that reflected the needs of their own political context.- developed interoperability standards and an identity management system that helped drive administrative simplification across all layers of government. Their initiative was called " Crossroads Bank ."- invested heavily in a consultative approach with its citizens and communities to jointly define and design service goals. This has led to citizen-centric initiatives such as " Connecting for Health ."- created a common service architecture that reaches across all levels of government. Nationally it emphasizes online delivery, but municipalities serve as the front-line service integrator offline.- established Centrelink , an autonomous public service provider that has initiated a wide range of direct federal-to-local service provider partnerships.Regardless of the political form of government, there are common patterns and strategies that can inform the design and implementation of an integrated service delivery system that reaches across levels of government: Create a collaborative network-based governance framework Engage citizens and communities in design and delivery Create a common technology infrastructure Agree on a common identity management frameworkThe difficult challenge for public sector leaders is to be able to collaborate politically and at the same time innovate administratively. Both are necessary in order to embrace greater interdependence and more seamless service delivery architecture in a manner that respects - but is not stymied by - the jurisdictional boundaries and the accountability requirements of each level of government.Free copies of the John Langford and Jeffrey Roy report, "" can be ordered or downloaded at: www.businessofgovernment.org A launching ceremony of the 4th Global Digital Trade Expo is held in Hangzhou, east China's Zhejiang Province, Sept. 25, 2025. (Xinhua/Xu Yu) HANGZHOU, Sept. 27 (Xinhua) -- The global digital trade sector has demonstrated significant growth momentum, with export value rising from 4.59 trillion U.S. dollars in 2020 to 7.23 trillion U.S. dollars in 2024, achieving an average annual growth rate of 12.1 percent, according to a report released Friday in east China's Zhejiang Province. The growth rate outpaces that of total global trade during the same period, underscoring the robust expansion of digital trade, said the report titled "Global Digital Trade Development Report 2025" unveiled at the ongoing fourth Global Digital Trade Expo in Hangzhou, the provincial capital. The report was jointly compiled by the International Trade Centre (ITC) and the organizing committee of the expo. The report indicates a more diversified global digital trade landscape, with the European Union, the United States, China, Britain and India ranking as the top five economies. Notably, China's digital trade exports surged 10.7 percent year on year to 793.7 billion U.S. dollars in 2024, helping steer the global digital trade landscape toward greater diversity and balance. The report also calls for greater support for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises and women entrepreneurs engaging in digital trade. An ITC survey revealed that women in developing countries still face barriers in international trade, while digital trade offers flexible employment opportunities, breaking time and geographical constraints. Robert Skidmore, in charge of sector and enterprise competitiveness at ITC, urged governments, businesses and international organizations to collaborate in fostering innovation and ensuring the benefits of the digital economy reach everyone, particularly the micro, small and medium-sized enterprises in developing countries. Editor: Xiong Jian The community has come out in support of Yigo residents impacted by dieldrin contamination by donating bottled water to the village. Meanwhile, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is mobilizing federal resources to assist Guam in addressing the dieldrin contamination, Adelup said in a Saturday release. More than 1,100 Yigo households are unable to drink, cook with or brush their teeth with water coming out of their taps due to high levels of dieldrin in the well that serves their area. Water customers in the Santa Rosa area of Yigo got notices from the Guam Waterworks Authority on Sept. 12, indicating water in the well serving them contained high concentrations of banned pesticide dieldrin, which is known to cause cancer. The Yigo Y-15 well has a concentration of dieldrin at an average of 1.76 parts per billion, ppb, in samples between December 2024 and July 2025. Thats more than three times the 0.5 ppb contamination level laid out by the Guam Environmental Protection Agency, which presents a 1 in 4,000 chance of increased cancer risk and risk of short-term health risks. Yigo Vice Mayor Pedro Blas said the mayors office is thankful for all the community support. He said the Yigo mayor's office has so far gotten donations from Sen. Joe San Agustin, from one of the villages planning council members, the University of Guam and Cost.U.Less. With all these people donating water, it gives us some hope to get by for the next few weeks, Blas told the Pacific Daily News on Saturday. Cost.U.Less came by the Yigo gym on Saturday morning to drop off pallets of bottled water. Steve Aguon, store manager of Cost.U.Less in Tamuning, said they donated 50 cases of water on Friday, but saw the situation was a lot more serious than they thought. All three stores have chipped in and were donating five pallets of water today, he said on Saturday. Each pallet contains 84 cases of bottled water, so the total donation was about 420 cases, he said. Cost.U.Less is also doing a water drive for any customers who want to donate at any of the three stores and has already collected over a pallet of water, Aguon said. We dont know how much water theyre gonna need, but were not gonna stop until we know theyre good, he said. Aguon said they hope these donations will be only needed for a short term and the water will get safer for Yigo residents. Cost.U.Less has always been here to support the residents of Guam where we can, he said. Managing impacts Blas, who is among those impacted by the water contamination, said on the mayors office end, theyre trying to refrain from panic, but its kind of hard knowing the waters contaminated and they dont know how far back its been. Because at the end of the day, we were still consuming water. Were still showering in water. Were just trying to find the best ways to go about the current situation and how to get back to our normal lives, he said. The vice mayor has been talking to people to encourage them to get filters for their houses and dropping off water to those who arent able to get it themselves. Were just really trying our best to service the village as best that we can to our capacity, Blas said. Some residents have already gone out to buy a filtration system and get their own water supply, he said. The water supply stations situated at different parts of the village havent been used as much, but he is encouraging residents to take advantage of the free water. Blas said with a fix to the well estimated by summer 2026, he isnt sure if distributing water that long can be sustained. Were gonna try to do what we can, he said. The mayors office has met with Adelup, GWA and Guam EPA about the $250,000 thats been released in response to the state of emergency that Acting Gov. Josh Tenorio issued on Thursday. Blas said its still not clear how the money will be used, but theyre hoping it can go to getting people filters in their homes or reimbursing those whove already bought them and providing bottled water instead of soliciting donations every week. Federal help Adelup on Saturday said the US EPA confirmed that funding, technical expertise, and compliance support are being made available to accelerate the cleanup and restoration of safe drinking water for affected families. Tenorio wrote a letter to US EPA and Acting Regional Administrator Mike Martucci. Martucci, in response, said the agency is working closely with Guam EPA and GWA to deploy resources and solutions immediately. GWA is eligible to use US EPA grant funds to purchase point-of-use and point-of-entry treatment units for affected homes, as well as treatment systems at the wellhead. GWA may also use the US EPAs Emerging Contaminant Grant to cover the construction and installation of these treatment systems. Additionally, the US EPA is collaborating with GWA to finance and expedite a permanent treatment system for well Y-15, including exploring ways to accelerate the projects scheduled construction timeline. EPAs partnership is critical in our effort to protect public health, Tenorio said in a statement. With their technical guidance and access to federal funding, we can take swift and coordinated action to ensure families in Yigo and across our island have access to safe drinking water. The US EPA is also providing technical and compliance assistance to Guam EPA for the implementation of Guams dieldrin interim action level rule, confirmatory monitoring, and the eventual lifting of the do not drink without treatment advisory once safety thresholds are met. Residents with questions or concerns regarding water safety can contact the Guam EPA Dieldrin Hotline at (671) 888-4342, available daily from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., or visit epa.guam.gov for additional information. Lina Concepcion, 43, says it makes no sense that Yigo residents like her who are impacted by water supply contaminated with banned pesticide dieldrin would still be allowed to use that water for showering and other hygiene purposes but not for cooking or washing the dishes. How long have they known about it and not said anything? she said. Concepcion, who lives in the Lupot area of Yigo, is among affected residents who shared with the Pacific Daily News over the weekend their worry, anxiety and confusion about dieldrin, which is known to cause cancer. The only thing that can take it out is certain filters, and not even boiling water can help, Concepcion said on Saturday. They tell us we cant wash our dishes or cook our food, but we can still shower and brush our teeth. That makes no sense to me. More than 1,100 customers in the Santa Rosa area of Yigo, including Concepcion, got notices from the Guam Waterworks Authority on Sept. 12, indicating water in the well serving them contained high concentrations of dieldrin. The Yigo Y-15 well has a concentration of dieldrin at an average of 1.76 parts per billion, ppb, in samples between December 2024 and July 2025. Thats more than three times the 0.5 ppb contamination level laid out by the Guam Environmental Protection Agency, which presents a 1 in 4,000 chance of increased cancer risk and risk of short-term health risks. We need to get our household filtered, and we dont have the money for that. Are they providing the households with filters? What are they doing to get rid of it? Concepcion added. Acting Gov. Josh Tenorio on Sept. 25 declared a state of emergency over the dieldrin contamination and part of his executive order gives $250,000 immediately to GWA to procure filters and other supplies for affected households but its not clear whether residents like Concepcion would get a filter from GWA. Kevin Benavente, 17, said he heard about the dieldrin contamination, but feels ill-informed. He said he is concerned that symptoms and issues may present themselves down the road. I dont realize it right now, but probably throughout time, itll start to affect us, Benavente said. We live with what we got, because it is all we got. Transparency Besides the question of whether GWA will assist households in installing filters, Concepcion is also concerned whether GWA is being completely transparent about the cause and duration of the contamination. She pointed to the nearby landfill and its proximity to a river used by family ranchers, as well as people in the village who succumbed to illness over the years, like her mother who died from cancer in 2015. Theres a lot of old construction, and theres no lining underneath, Concepcion said. That goes to the river. Thats where our water source is coming from. My dads ranch has the water. These pesticides come from old, abandoned buildings used in the 80s. I was researching it, [and dieldrin] doesnt break down by boiling water or in the environment fast enough, so thats still lingering. Concepcion is also concerned about how the contaminant is affecting her family with existing health disorders, such as her daughter, who recently moved back home. Im wondering, because since she came back to the house, shes been breaking out, Concecion said. She has eczema, but it hasnt kicked in for the longest time, so is the water making it worse? Because it looks like its getting worse. Im wondering if there is a correlation. GWA has been allowing residents to get water from their non-contaminated tankers. Concepcion said they are too far away for her household. Sometimes, I dont have gas to go to the tanker, Concepcion said. Were living off of bottled water. I saw the map, and its everywhere, but its still too far for me. Mayor: Take precautions Yigo mayor Frances Lizama said until a full resolution is found, she asks for the village residents patience. She said her office will coordinate with GWA for future public outreach, such as distributing bottled water throughout the affected area. Im advising residents to take precautions, Lizama said. We are doing a bottled water drive through Cost-U-Less. They provided 50 cases [on Friday], and another 10 pallets [on Saturday]. We are prioritizing the manamko and those who cannot get to the water themselves. Lizama is also awaiting confirmation from the Department of Agriculture and GWA for future potential town halls, office meetings, and procurement efforts. Water billing Concepcion and others are wondering whether they will still be billed fully or partially for consuming water from the well with known contamination. Some residents in the area said they have begun outsourcing water from other villages, having family members deliver water cases or gallons, over health concerns. Dieldrin, an insecticide widely used in the 1950s to 1970s, was banned in 1987 due to environmental hazards and potential health risks to humans, including cancer and adverse effects on the liver and nervous system in higher concentrations. Dieldrin hotline Residents with questions or concerns regarding water safety can contact the Guam EPA Dieldrin Hotline at (671) 888-4342. It is available daily from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Residents can also visit epa.guam.gov for additional information. China's employment situation stable amid policy incentives Xinhua) 08:50, September 28, 2025 This photo taken on Sept. 26, 2025 shows a scene at an autumn campus job fair for Shanghai university graduates at the Minhang campus of Shanghai Jiao Tong University in east China's Shanghai. (Xinhua/Liu Ying) BEIJING, Sept. 26 (Xinhua) -- During the 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-2025), China's employment situation has been bolstered by a series of supportive policies and remained generally stable while its structure continued to be optimized and the quality of employment steadily improved, Wang Xiaoping, minister of human resources and social security, said on Friday. As of August, a total of 59.21 million new urban jobs had been created since the beginning of the 14th Five-Year Plan period (2021-2025), surpassing the target of 55 million, Wang told a press conference. The average urban surveyed unemployment rate from 2021 to 2024 stood at 5.3 percent, below the preset control target of 5.5 percent. The 14th Five-Year Plan period witnessed both rapid development and considerable challenges in the realm of employment, which is the cornerstone of people's well-being, said Wang, adding that concerted efforts have been made to promote full employment. Since 2021, over 470 billion yuan (about 66.06 billion U.S. dollars) has been allocated for employment subsidies, while more than 130 billion yuan has been issued in the form of employment stabilization refunds. China's social security system saw continuous improvement during the 2021-2025 period. The number of participants in the basic pension insurance schemes exceeded 1.07 billion, and its coverage rate rose from 91 percent by the end of the 13th Five-Year Plan period (2016-2020) to over 95 percent. The number of people covered by unemployment insurance and workplace injury insurance reached 246 million and 302 million, respectively, marking an increase of over 29 million and 34 million since the end of 2020. China has stepped up support for key employment groups, such as college graduates, recognizing that safeguarding their jobs is fundamental to overall employment stability and directly impacts people's well-being, said Yan Qinghui, vice minister of human resources and social security. A comprehensive support package has been provided to help graduates secure jobs, starting with on-campus services before graduation. For those still seeking jobs after graduation, measures such as career guidance, job matching and training opportunities are made available, Yan said. He added that efforts have also been made to maintain stable employment for migrant workers, particularly those lifted out of poverty, and to help the unemployed in returning to work smoothly and as quickly as possible. During the 14th Five-Year Plan period, China's economic strength has been significantly enhanced, and its industrial structure has been continuously optimized, laying a foundation for stabilizing employment, said Wang, adding that new growth drivers have been cultivated. China now has more than 220 million skilled workers, including over 72 million highly skilled professionals, a vital force for achieving high-level self-reliance and strength in science and technology, as well as developing a modernized industrial system. To meet talent demands fueled by high-quality economic development, China has recognized 72 new professions in sectors including digital economy, modern services and smart manufacturing over the past five years, Yan said. China will bolster vocational training programs in support of workers transitioning into new professions, he added. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) State Alabama Alaska Arizona Arkansas California Colorado Connecticut Delaware Florida Georgia Hawaii Idaho Illinois Indiana Iowa Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Maine Maryland Massachusetts Michigan Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Montana Nebraska Nevada New Hampshire New Jersey New Mexico New York North Carolina North Dakota Ohio Oklahoma Oregon Pennsylvania Rhode Island South Carolina South Dakota Tennessee Texas Utah Vermont Virginia Washington Washington D.C. 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More than 300 private schools in the West Departmental Education Directorate (DDEO) are affected, and distribution will continue this week. The process will also begin this week in the Northeast, Northwest, and South. The other Departmental Education Directorates will then follow suit. Yves Roblin, the Director General of the Ministry, emphasized that "the granting of these permits precludes any attempt to cause harm to schools. On the contrary, this is an initiative aimed at bringing order to the education sector [...] Without good administration, we will not be able to achieve the effectiveness and efficiency of programs and projects developed in the form of major public policies." Walex Pierre, Director of Support for Private Education and Partnership, welcomed the ceremony. "I hope that every school founder, every educational director who receives this permit will consider it not only as a mark of distinction, but also as a moral obligation to sustainably respect standards, improve learning conditions, and place students and the quality of education at the heart of their mission." Etienne Louisseul France, Departmental Director of Education for the West, addressing the recipients of these permits, stated "[...] this is not a simple administrative document that you now hold in your hands. You are receiving a civic and moral responsibility. To ensure the quality of education, to protect children's rights, to respect established standards, and to work so that every student has the opportunity to succeed. I encourage you to see these permits as motivation to go further. May your schools become spaces of light in our communities, places where we teach not only how to read and write, but also how to live in community while respecting the rights of others and protecting public property, to love the country by working for its development, and to dream of a better future." HL/ HaitiLibre Haiti - Humanitarian : Taiwan donates 1,350 tons of rice Taiwan (Republic of China) made a new gesture of solidarity with the Haitian people by officially donating 1,350 tons of rice to the Economic and Social Assistance Fund (FAES) this week. The ceremony took place at the Citizen Protection Office, in the presence of Taiwanese Ambassador Cheng-hao Hu and Serge Gabriel Colin, Director General of the FAES. This donation is intended to support families living in extremely precarious conditions throughout the country. It strengthens the humanitarian efforts carried out by the FAES in a particularly difficult socio-economic context. In his speech, Serge Gabriel Colin warmly thanked the Taiwanese government for its support. He emphasized that this delivery of rice will help strengthen food assistance operations, particularly in communities most affected by insecurity, poverty, and instability. "This donation comes at the right time. It will allow us to alleviate the suffering of many families living in extremely difficult conditions." For his part, Ambassador Cheng-hao Hu reaffirmed Taiwan's commitment to supporting Haiti in its social recovery efforts. He praised the exemplary cooperation between the two countries, based on shared values of solidarity, mutual respect, and humanity. "Taiwan remains at the side of the Haitian people. This donation of rice is not just food aid, but a powerful symbol of our lasting friendship. This collaboration is of profound benefit to the Haitian people, and particularly to those most in need. I would like to commend the commitment and determination of the FAES leadership team, whose hard work ensures this aid reaches those who need it most." HL/ HaitiLibre With the Xiaomi 17, 17 Pro and Pro Max, the Chinese manufacturer wants to compete against Apple's iPhone 17 series. Xiaomi President Lu Weibing said this in the run-up to the launch. This alone is also the reason the current Xiaomi 15 series is not followed by the 16 series: Xiaomi admitted to wanting to keep up with Apple's numbering with the generational leap. The new models have initially been presented for the Chinese market; a global launch will follow later. Xiaomi presented the 15T models for the global market just a few days ago. Continue after ad Regardless of the marketing gimmick, the Chinese manufacturer's new models have a lot to offer: For example, the new models have Qualcomm's new top chip Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, which shows Apple's current iPhone chips the tail lights in initial benchmarks, and massive batteries with up to 7,500 mAh. The Pro models also have a rear display on board, which is somewhat reminiscent of the external screens on flip phones and is intended to be used as a viewfinder for selfies, music playback controls, interactive widgets, and much more. Xiaomi 17 Pro with "Dynamic Back Display" It should be noted that Xiaomi's Mi 11 Ultra already had a screen on the back, but it was only 1.1 inches in size. However, the benefits of the predecessor were severely limited, although one could also question how useful such a feature is for the new Pro models apart from a viewfinder function for selfies. After all, you only have to turn the device around to access all the functions of a smartphone. Nevertheless, it is nice that the back can be converted into a kind of gameboy with a case. Games can also be played on the rear display. (Image: Xiaomi) The technical specifications of the rear display are nothing to sneeze at: The screen has a diagonal of 2.7 inches or 2.9 inches (on the Pro Max) and has a resolution of 904 x 572 or 976 x 596 pixels at a refresh rate of 120 Hz. It also supports DC dimming and is up to 3,500 cd/m bright. Bright screens, thick batteries Otherwise, the two new Pro smartphones are largely identical except for their size. The smaller Pro model has a 6.3-inch LTPO display with a dynamic refresh rate of one to 120 hertz. The screen of the Pro Max measures 6.9 inches. Both can reach a brightness of up to 3500 cd/m. Continue after ad The Xiaomi 17 Pro is available in a wide range of colours. (Image: Xiaomi) The Pro and Pro Max weigh 192 g and 231 g respectively and are protected against dust and water in accordance with IP68. In terms of memory, up to 16 GB of LPDDR5X RAM and up to 1 TByte of UFS 4.1 storage space are on board. The built-in batteries are massive: the Pro model has 6300 mAh and the Pro Max has an impressive 7500 mAh. Both support fast charging with 100 W via cable using the PPS charging protocol. Wireless charging via a proprietary charging station is possible with up to 50 W. Xiaomi has not revealed whether the devices support the new Qi2 charging standard, so we are not assuming this for the time being. It is uncertain whether Xiaomi will also offer the large batteries in Europe. Three 50 MP cameras are integrated into the plateau on the back. They have the same wide-angle camera with f/1.67 aperture (LightFusion 950) and an ultra-wide-angle with f/2.4. There are differences in the telephoto zoom cameras: although both support five times optical magnification, the Pro Max has a larger sensor and a larger aperture of f/2.6 than the smaller Pro with f/3.0. This means that the Pro Max should cut a better figure for telephoto zoom photos in difficult lighting conditions. The selfie cam on the front has a 50 MP sensor. Xiaomi 17 without rear display Xiaomi has also added a basic model to the Pro series, which is a little more discreetly designed like Apple's basic iPhones, but its 6.3-inch display housing contains a huge 7000 mAh battery. However, the manufacturer has dispensed with the rear screen, but not with Qualcomm's new top chip. Less glamorous, but also with top features: the Xiaomi 17. (Image: Xiaomi) Three 50 MP sensors are also integrated on the rear, where Xiaomi also uses its new LightFusion 950 sensor. All models come with Leica branding. Global market launch: later In China, the manufacturer is offering the Xiaomi 17 from 4499 yuan, which is equivalent to 540 euros. The Pro versions cost from 4999 and 5999 yuan in Xiaomi's home country, which is around 600 and 720 euros, respectively. However, the prices cannot be converted one-to-one, as was the case with the predecessors. All models of the Xiaomi 17 series. (Image: Xiaomi) We can assume that the Xiaomi 17 will cost around 1000 Euro, similar to the Xiaomi 15, with the Pro versions costing correspondingly more. Xiaomi is not expected to communicate official prices for the domestic market until early 2026, as the manufacturer usually launches its top models in the first quarter of the year. (afl) Don't miss any news follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn or Mastodon. This article was originally published in German. It was translated with technical assistance and editorially reviewed before publication. National exhibition of Xieyi art kicks off in Beijing Xinhua) 08:58, September 28, 2025 People visit a national exhibition of Xieyi art "Honoring the Spirit: Homage to the Classics" at the National Art Museum of China in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 27, 2025. The exhibition kicked off here on Saturday, featuring nearly 600 pieces of artwork. (Xinhua/Lu Peng) People visit a national exhibition of Xieyi art "Honoring the Spirit: Homage to the Classics" at the National Art Museum of China in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 27, 2025. The exhibition kicked off here on Saturday, featuring nearly 600 pieces of artwork. (Xinhua/Lu Peng) People visit a national exhibition of Xieyi art "Honoring the Spirit: Homage to the Classics" at the National Art Museum of China in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 27, 2025. The exhibition kicked off here on Saturday, featuring nearly 600 pieces of artwork. (Xinhua/Lu Peng) A person visits a national exhibition of Xieyi art "Honoring the Spirit: Homage to the Classics" at the National Art Museum of China in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 27, 2025. The exhibition kicked off here on Saturday, featuring nearly 600 pieces of artwork. (Xinhua/Lu Peng) People visit a national exhibition of Xieyi art "Honoring the Spirit: Homage to the Classics" at the National Art Museum of China in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 27, 2025. The exhibition kicked off here on Saturday, featuring nearly 600 pieces of artwork. (Xinhua/Lu Peng) People visit a national exhibition of Xieyi art "Honoring the Spirit: Homage to the Classics" at the National Art Museum of China in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 27, 2025. The exhibition kicked off here on Saturday, featuring nearly 600 pieces of artwork. (Xinhua/Lu Peng) People visit a national exhibition of Xieyi art "Honoring the Spirit: Homage to the Classics" at the National Art Museum of China in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 27, 2025. The exhibition kicked off here on Saturday, featuring nearly 600 pieces of artwork. (Xinhua/Lu Peng) People visit a national exhibition of Xieyi art "Honoring the Spirit: Homage to the Classics" at the National Art Museum of China in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 27, 2025. The exhibition kicked off here on Saturday, featuring nearly 600 pieces of artwork. (Xinhua/Lu Peng) People visit a national exhibition of Xieyi art "Honoring the Spirit: Homage to the Classics" at the National Art Museum of China in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 27, 2025. The exhibition kicked off here on Saturday, featuring nearly 600 pieces of artwork. (Xinhua/Lu Peng) (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) The city said the march, arranged with UN Women Finland , will begin at 17:00 from the western end of Esplanade Park and end with candles being placed around the statue. The statue will remain lit between 15:00 and midnight. Both events are open to the public. Helsinki will take part in the UNs Orange Days campaign to end violence against women by lighting the Havis Amanda statue orange and organising a silent candlelight march on 25 November 2025. The campaign aims to raise awareness of violence against women and encourage people to act against it. Orange symbolises hope for a future free of violence. The initiative begins on the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women on 25 November and ends on Human Rights Day on 10 December. The campaigns patron in Finland is Suzanne Innes-Stubb, the spouse of the President of the Republic. Mayor Daniel Sazonov said the city has a responsibility to address gender-based violence. We want Helsinki to be a safe place to live for all residents. The city plays a central role in prevention and in advancing gender equality. Active intervention, stronger support services and preventive measures are key, he said. Research shows women in Helsinki feel less safe than men. According to the 2025 school health survey, around one in three girls in secondary and upper secondary schools reported experiencing sexual harassment or abuse. Combating gender-based harassment and violence is now included as a safety objective in the citys new strategy. Eurostat figures indicate that Finland is the most unsafe EU country for women, with 57 percent reporting physical violence, sexual violence or threats. Intimate partner violence affects one in three Finnish women, and when psychological abuse is included, more than half report having experienced it. Statistics Finland recorded 13,000 cases of intimate partner violence in 2024, an increase on the previous year. Women made up 74 percent of adult victims, while 75 percent of suspects were men. Authorities note that most cases never reach official records. To strengthen prevention, Helsinki has set up a dedicated working group that cooperates with organisations and authorities on domestic violence policy. HT Social Security Minister Sanni Grahn-Laasonen confirmed to Uutissuomalainen that a draft of the proposal will be circulated for public consultation later this year. The plan is intended to encourage employment and language acquisition among immigrants. The Finnish government plans to reduce unemployment benefits for immigrants who cannot demonstrate proficiency in Finnish or Swedish. A new integration allowance will replace part of the existing jobseekers support for this group, with lower monthly payments unless language or work requirements are met. Under the proposal, immigrants who do not pass a language test or meet minimum employment criteria would receive a reduced benefit. The cut would bring monthly support to the level of basic social assistance, approximately 594 for a single adult, down from the current net unemployment benefit of around 640. The maximum reduction would be just under 50 per month. "Thats a reasonable assumption, without specifying the exact amount of the future integration allowance," said Liisa Siika-aho, Director at the Ministry of Social Affairs and Health, in an interview with Helsingin Sanomat, which first reported the story. Immigrants would be able to raise their benefit to the current level by proving their language skills through a test or by meeting the employment condition required for full unemployment support. The government has not yet decided whether the new rules will apply only to new arrivals or also to immigrants already living in Finland. The integration allowance would be time-limited, after which recipients would transition to standard unemployment benefits, regardless of language proficiency or employment history. "It is not desirable for any group to remain permanently outside the main benefit system," said Siika-aho. She added that keeping recipients within the primary system ensures stronger incentives and obligations to seek work than in the last-resort assistance framework. Finance Minister Riikka Purra, leader of the Finns Party, described the change as a step toward a more citizenship-based social security model. She posted on X that the integration allowance aligns with her partys broader objective to reform Finlands welfare system, although achieving full reform would require constitutional changes. A similar proposal was made by Prime Minister Juha Sipilas government in 2015, aiming to reduce immigrants unemployment benefits by 10 percent regardless of language skills. That plan was later withdrawn after constitutional law experts raised concerns about equality provisions. Siika-aho acknowledged that legal concerns remain possible. "Its always a sensitive issue when rules are applied differently to one group. But I believe it makes a difference that in this case, people have a real opportunity to improve their situation through their own actions," she said. The new model would not immediately exclude anyone from support. The integration allowance would act as a lower starting point, with a clear path to higher benefits through active measures. HT In Kyiv, 20 separate locations across six city districts were hit. The Ukrainian authorities reported four civilian deaths, including a 12-year-old girl. Over 70 people sustained injuries, the Kyiv Independent reports. The main targets were Kyiv and Zaporizhzhia, with extensive damage to residential areas and critical infrastructure. Russia carried out a 12-hour air assault on Ukraine overnight from Saturday to Sunday, launching nearly 500 drones and over 40 missiles across multiple regions. A five-storey residential building partially collapsed, according to Mayor Vitali Klitschko. The citys heart clinic also suffered damage. Emergency services published images showing destroyed buildings and firefighters extinguishing fires. President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed the scale of the attack and stated that Russian forces launched 500 Shahed-type drones and over 40 missiles during the operation. "Russia wants to continue fighting and killing. It deserves only the harshest global pressure," Zelenskyi wrote on Telegram. Ukraine issued air raid alerts across the country. The strikes also hit Sumy, Mykolaiv, Odesa, Khmelnytskyi, and Chernihiv regions. In Zaporizhzhia, 16 people were injured. Local governor Ivan Fedorov said the strikes targeted civilian areas, destroying nine houses and damaging 14 apartment buildings. "Yesterday is still visible through the windows of destroyed homes, photos, toys, and books. People are suffering, and the city must once again count its wounds," said Regina Hartshenko, acting chair of the Zaporizhzhia city council. The assault came hours after the UN General Assembly concluded in New York. NATO member states responded by activating defence measures. Poland scrambled fighter jets and partially closed airspace in its eastern regions. The Polish Armed Forces confirmed no violations occurred. The Netherlands deployed F-35 fighters and Germany used its Patriot defence systems during the joint operation. The Polish Armed Forces said, Operations in our airspace have ended as Russias long-range aircraft have ceased strikes on Ukraine. Russia claimed the targets were military facilities, including airbases and defence industry locations. Ukraine denied this, stating that the attacks were directed at residential areas and civilian infrastructure. The Ukrainian air force said the attack involved Tu-95 bombers from the Murmansk and Engels air bases and MiG-31K aircraft. In a press conference in New York, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov commented on international airspace rules. He said Russia had no objections to other nations shooting down Russian drones once they left Russian airspace. If a drone has exited our airspace, then anyone has the right to do what they deem necessary for their own security, Lavrov said, according to Ukrinform. Lavrov also warned that any attack on objects flying over what Russia considers its own territory, including annexed Ukrainian regions, would be met with consequences. He rejected comments by former US President Donald Trump suggesting that NATO members should shoot down Russian aircraft violating their airspace. Trump had said earlier in the week that Russian planes entering NATO airspace should be shot down immediately. In his UN address, Lavrov accused the West of fuelling the war through support to Ukraine. He described Europes belief in a Russian defeat as a "utopian dream" and blamed NATOs expansion for escalating tensions. Responding to the airstrike, Finlands President Alexander Stubb called for action against Russia. "This brutal attack after the UN General Assembly week exposes Russias false war narratives and the true face of the aggressor," Stubb said on X. Stubb urged the EU to approve a new sanctions package and maintain pressure on the Russian war effort. Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen also posted, Russia must be forced to end this war. In a CNN interview, Stubb said that while Russia is testing Western responses through hybrid operations, Finland is not at war with Russia. He emphasised calm and measured action, citing Finlands national security protocols. Everything depends on the situation. We have clear legal procedures for dealing with airspace violations, Stubb said. Ukraine has continued to seek more air defence systems to protect against repeated aerial attacks, especially before winter. Zelenskyi said the country recently received a Patriot air defence system from Israel and expects two more. Authorities in Kyiv warned of ongoing threats and instructed residents to use underground shelters. Some residents sought refuge in metro stations during the overnight bombardment. Independent monitors described the assault on Kyiv as one of the heaviest since Russia's full-scale invasion began in February 2022. The Kyiv Independent and international media reported intense explosions and widespread damage. Ukrainian officials also reported a separate incident involving forced recruitment of foreign nationals. BBC reports that in Kenya, police discovered 22 people who had signed contracts for jobs in Russia but were instead being sent to the frontlines in Ukraine. Some of them have reportedly become prisoners of war. As of Sunday, no further missile waves had been reported, but Ukrainian authorities remained on high alert. HT The broadcast showed Valtonen alongside Abbas Araghchi , Irans Deputy Foreign Minister, during official talks. The same footage also included Maria Malmer Stenergard , Swedens Minister for Migration. In both cases, the womens legs were digitally obscured. Iranian state television censored images of Elina Valtonen , Finlands Minister for Foreign Affairs, by blurring her legs in a news segment covering diplomatic meetings at the UN General Assembly in New York. Iranian activist and journalist Masih Alinejad shared the footage on social media platform X, describing the censorship as a symptom of broader restrictions on womens freedoms in Iran. The Finnish National Coalition Party later published Valtonens response on Instagram, where she stated, I do not adjust my clothing based on whom I am meeting. I have a policy of not attending events where covering ones face or hair is required. In an interview with Helsingin Sanomat, the first media outlet to report on the incident, Valtonen called the broadcast sad and said it reflected the status of women in Iran. Iranian state media often modifies international footage involving women, in line with state-imposed dress codes. The blurring is part of standard broadcasting practice in the country, especially when showing women who do not adhere to local Islamic dress regulations. The Finnish Foreign Ministry has not issued an official statement regarding the incident. The meeting between Valtonen and Araghchi took place on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, which brought together diplomats from around the world for high-level discussions. Topics reportedly included regional stability, human rights, and the role of women in diplomacy. HT The sightings mark the latest in a series of unexplained aerial activities near sensitive defence locations. The Danish Defence Command did not disclose how many drones were seen or their exact flight paths. It also declined to provide further details to national media outlets DR and TV2 . Unidentified drones were detected again overnight near Danish military areas, the countrys armed forces confirmed in a brief statement on Sunday. Military units responded to the incident, but no public information has been shared regarding interceptions or technical analysis. The drones were reportedly spotted late Saturday night and into the early hours of Sunday. Earlier, drones were observed on Friday near Denmarks main airbase. Police confirmed the incident the following day, saying one or possibly two drones were involved. The base's name was not made public. Authorities in Germany also reported drone activity in the Schleswig-Holstein region, which borders Denmark. The German federal police said drones were detected between Thursday and Friday night. No official identification has been made. On Saturday, Norways police reported a possible drone sighting at the rland airbase, the countrys principal air operations centre. In a separate incident, Estonian authorities discovered what they described as a component of a foreign drone, although no additional context has been released. Drone sightings in Denmark and Norway have occurred almost daily in recent weeks. Some cases led to the temporary closure of airports earlier in the week. No group has claimed responsibility for the flights. Danish officials have not speculated publicly on the possible origin or intent of the drones. The repeated sightings have prompted NATO to take further action. The alliance is preparing to enhance its presence in the Baltic Sea, citing the drone incidents and growing concerns over unauthorised surveillance near member state military infrastructure. HT Global travel platforms Airbnb, Booking.com, Expedia, and TripAdvisor are among those listed. The report said many of the businesses are tied to construction, real estate, mining, and quarrying sectors central to Israels settlement expansion. The United Nations has named 158 companies with activities linked to Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank, which international law deems illegal. The updated database, released by the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), includes multinational firms from the United States, Canada, China, France, and Germany, as well as Israeli companies. The database, first issued in 2020 and updated in 2023, now includes 68 new firms, while seven companies have been removed after ending their settlement-linked activities. More than 300 additional businesses remain under review. Businesses working in contexts of conflict have a due diligence responsibility to ensure their activities do not contribute to human rights abuses, said OHCHR spokesperson Ravina Shamdasani in Geneva. She urged firms to take corrective action and provide remedies if their operations cause or contribute to violations. The report describes activities ranging from supplying equipment for settlement construction and house demolitions, to operating in resource extraction and waste disposal on occupied land. UN human rights chief Volker Turk said the findings highlight the role of corporate actors in sustaining occupation. This report underscores the due diligence responsibility of businesses working in contexts of conflict to ensure their activities do not contribute to human rights abuses, he stated. The Human Rights Council mandated the database in 2016 to provide transparency and accountability. Civil society groups have used it to press companies to cut ties with settlements. Rights advocates argue that international firms enabling Israels settlement enterprise are complicit in breaches of international law. The release comes as a separate UN Commission of Inquiry accused Israel of pursuing a strategy of displacing Palestinians and entrenching Jewish-only settlements, describing steps toward annexation of the West Bank. Settlements have expanded steadily since Israel seized the West Bank in 1967, accompanied by road networks, checkpoints, and military rule restricting Palestinian movement. Armed settler groups, often supported by state policy, have been accused by human rights organisations of driving families from their homes and seizing land. The OHCHR said all listed companies were notified of the allegations and invited to provide information before inclusion. States were also reminded of their obligation under international law to prevent businesses under their jurisdiction from contributing to rights abuses. We call on states to take judicial, administrative, and legislative steps to ensure accountability, Shamdasani said. Both Israel and the United States have long criticised the database, claiming it unfairly singles out Israel. For Palestinians, the updated list is viewed as documentation of the economic system underpinning decades of occupation. HT Hospitals in Gaza confirmed that entire families were among the dead. Nine relatives were killed in a strike on Nuseirat refugee camp, while 11 people, more than half of them women and children, were killed when a house in central Gaza was hit. Health workers also reported that six people were killed while queuing for aid. At least 40 Palestinians were killed in Israeli strikes on Gaza on Saturday, medical sources reported, as the military expanded its ground and air operations in Gaza City and central areas of the enclave. In Gaza City, Israeli forces intensified bombardments of neighbourhoods including Sabra, Rimal, and Shati camp. Residents described relentless shelling and the use of remote-controlled explosive devices that levelled residential blocks. Witnesses said tanks were seen advancing further into the city, once home to hundreds of thousands of people. The violence coincided with reports of severe humanitarian conditions. Aid groups confirmed that a two-and-a-half-month-old baby, Eid Mahmoud Abu Jamma, died in Khan Younis from malnutrition and lack of medical care. Gaza health officials said famine and shortages of basic supplies are worsening as Israel blocks fuel and restricts humanitarian deliveries. Displacement orders have continued. Israeli military spokesperson Avichay Adraee issued an urgent order for residents of several Gaza City districts to evacuate immediately, warning that strikes on buildings were imminent. Palestinians said there were no safe routes left, with Rafah and Khan Younis already under fire. Civil Defence official Mohammed al-Mughair warned that fuel shortages are paralysing rescue operations. The fuel we have is barely enough to operate for a few days, he said, calling for urgent international intervention. The attacks came a day after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told the UN General Assembly that Israel must finish the job against Hamas. His speech was met with walkouts by several delegations. Netanyahu rejected any pathway to Palestinian statehood, a point of contention with reported US proposals. US President Donald Trump, meanwhile, claimed that negotiations for a ceasefire were advancing. He said his administration had prepared a 21-point peace plan, including prisoner exchanges, disarmament of Hamas, and eventual Palestinian statehood. The plan has not been formally released, and Netanyahu has already dismissed key elements. Trump is due to meet Netanyahu in the coming days. The genocide began after Hamass attack on southern Israel on 7 October 2023, which killed about 1,200 people and led to 251 hostages being taken. Since then, more than 65,000 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli assaults, according to Gazas health ministry. Saturdays escalation also saw violence in the occupied West Bank, where Israeli soldiers shot dead a Palestinian accused of attempting a car-ramming near Jit junction. One Israeli man in his 20s was seriously injured, reportedly by army fire during the incident. With the second anniversary of the 2023 Hamas attack approaching, both sides remain entrenched. Calls for a ceasefire have intensified at the UN, with multiple states recognising Palestinian statehood in recent weeks, but Israeli strikes on Gaza continue without pause. HT The speech, delivered before delegates at the 80th UNGA, was met with walkouts by several countries in protest at Israels ongoing assault on Gaza. Netanyahu dismissed a UN Commission of Inquirys findings that Israel has committed genocide , saying that evacuation orders prove the opposite. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu came under intense criticism following his address to the United Nations General Assembly in New York, where he rejected committing genocide and vowed to continue the operations in Gaza. He also claimed that Hamas bears responsibility for civilian deaths and that Israel is taking extraordinary measures to protect civilians. The Gaza government and a fact-check by an Al Jazeera journalist have revealed Netanyahu's false claims in the speech. Al Jazeera reports that investigations by +972 Magazine, Local Call and The Guardian revealed that more than 80 percent of those killed in Gaza were civilians, contradicting Netanyahus suggestion of a lower ratio. A classified Israeli database cited in the reports listed 8,900 alleged Hamas fighters killed, many marked only as probably. According to Anadolu Ajansi, the Gaza Media Office accused Netanyahu of promoting eight major lies, including claims about aid theft, displacement, and international recognition of Palestine. It said his remarks were intended to justify war crimes and genocide. According to the office, Israeli forces have dropped more than 200,000 tons of explosives on residential areas since October 2023, killing over 64,000 civilians, including 20,000 children and 10,500 women. On aid, Netanyahu alleged Hamas stole supplies while Israel facilitated deliveries. Independent assessments, including one by Israels own military and by USAID, found no evidence that Hamas diverted aid. Instead, Gaza authorities said Israel created death traps around convoys, where desperate civilians were killed as they tried to access food. Hundreds have died from hunger-related causes, including at least 147 children, local health officials reported. Netanyahu also warned about Irans nuclear programme, calling it a direct threat to Israel and the United States. He claimed Tehran was developing nuclear weapons and ballistic missiles. The International Atomic Energy Agency, while expressing concern about uranium enrichment levels, has found no evidence of weapons production. Iran insists its programme is for civilian use. On regional conflicts, Netanyahu said Israel had eliminated large parts of the leadership of Hamas, Hezbollah, and Yemens Houthis. Analysts noted that while Israel has assassinated senior leaders, including Hassan Nasrallah of Hezbollah and Ismail Haniyeh of Hamas, the groups continue to operate and conduct attacks. In Yemen, the Houthis remain active despite Israeli strikes that killed political figures in Sanaa. The Gaza Media Office said Netanyahus reference to seven fronts of conflict distorted reality. Israels campaign has systematically targeted civilians and civilian infrastructure, it said, citing reports that more than 90 percent of Gazas hospitals and schools have been destroyed. International legal bodies, including the International Court of Justice and the International Association of Genocide Scholars, have accused Israel of committing genocidal acts in Gaza. Amnesty International, BTselem, and other human rights groups have echoed this conclusion. The Gaza Media Office called on the international community to halt the genocide, force Israel to withdraw, and pressure it to allow food and medicine into the enclave. It also urged further steps toward recognition of a Palestinian state. Netanyahu insisted Israel will finish the job, a stance that leaves little room for an immediate ceasefire. HT 48 Palestinians killed in Israeli attacks across Gaza as humanitarian condition worsens Xinhua) 09:05, September 28, 2025 A Palestinian boy sits among the massive destruction caused by an Israeli airstrike in Al-Zawaida area in the central Gaza Strip, on Sept. 25, 2025. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua) GAZA/JERUSALEM, Sept. 27 (Xinhua) -- At least 48 Palestinians were killed in Israeli attacks in the Gaza Strip on Saturday, as the Israeli army continues to deepen its military operation in the neighborhoods of Gaza City, according to Gaza's civil defense authority. Mahmoud Basal, spokesperson for the Civil Defense authority in Gaza, told Xinhua that 48 bodies arrived at hospitals across Gaza on Saturday after Israeli attacks struck residential homes and tents sheltering displaced people since dawn. Basal said that among the dead, three were killed by Israeli gunfire in front of an aid distribution center in the central Netzarim axis. Meanwhile, Israeli forces are advancing deeper into Gaza City. Witnesses told Xinhua that the Israeli army was launching intensive raids in surrounding neighborhoods and detonating drone-dropped bombs between houses amid heavy artillery shelling and gunfire. Smoke rises from damaged buildings in Gaza City as seen from southern Israeli border on Sept. 25, 2025. (Photo by Gil Cohen Magen/Xinhua) The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said in a statement on Saturday that its troops "continue operational activity against the terrorist organizations throughout the Gaza Strip." "Over the past day, the air force struck approximately 120 terror targets, including military structures, terrorists, and additional terrorist infrastructure," it added. Humanitarian and international organizations warned of the almost complete collapse of the health system in Gaza due to the escalation of the military operation, amid fears for the remaining residents of the city, estimated at 400,000 people, of worsening humanitarian conditions. Umm Rafik Salem, a mother of three who remained in Gaza, told Xinhua that the situation in the city was "becoming more difficult in light of the military escalation and the scarcity of food, medical and supplies." Salem, 42, added, "Markets are scarce of goods. Vendors and kitchens that used to provide free food were displaced to the south." Displaced Palestinian children are seen fetching water at a temporary shelter in Deir al-Balah, in central Gaza Strip, Sept. 23, 2025. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua) Gaza City is also facing a water crisis, with available supplies meeting less than 25 percent of daily needs, according to Assem Al-Nabih, spokesperson for the Gaza Municipality. Al-Nabih told Xinhua that about 15,000 cubic meters of water are currently supplied each day through Israeli water company Mekorot -- an unstable amount -- in addition to around 10,000 cubic meters drawn from local wells. Photo taken on the Rashid road, the coastal road west of Gaza City, shows a Palestinian kid from the northern Gaza Strip fleeing to the south amid the large-scale Israeli military operation in the Gaza City, Sept. 18, 2025. (Photo by Rizek Abdeljawad/Xinhua) Israel has been waging a large-scale war in the Gaza Strip since October 7, 2023, following a surprise attack carried out by Hamas-led militants on southern Israel, which, according to Israeli authorities, resulted in the death of about 1,200 people and the detention of 251 hostages. The two-year war has killed nearly 66,000 Palestinians, according to the health authorities in the Gaza Strip, in addition to significant destruction of buildings and infrastructure. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) Premier calls for efforts to enhance China-US ties 09:49, September 28, 2025 By CAO DESHENG ( China Daily Premier Li Qiang meets with friendly organizations in the United States, on Sep 25, 2025. [Wang Zhuangfei/China Daily] Premier Li Qiang has underlined the need for Beijing and Washington to find the right way to get along with each other and strive to achieve common prosperity through mutual success. Li made the remarks in New York on Thursday when meeting with friendly organizations in the United States, including representatives from the US-China Business Council, the National Committee on US-China Relations, the US Chamber of Commerce and the Council on Foreign Relations, as well as scholars and business leaders, on the sidelines of the general debate of the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly. Li said that China-US relations are the most important bilateral relations in the world, and the two countries can and should be partners and friends. As the world's two major countries, they should respect each other, coexist in peace, and pursue win-win cooperation, he added. He highlighted economic and trade relations as an important component of bilateral ties, saying that closer economic and trade cooperation between China and the US will benefit both countries and the world at large. The premier emphasized that China is confident in its ability to maintain stable and healthy economic development to create more opportunities for businesses from all countries, including US enterprises. He pledged that no matter how the external environment changes, China will do its utmost to provide greater certainty for the development of foreign businesses. China will always work with the US side to jointly promote the stabilization and improvement of bilateral economic and trade ties, on the basis of equality, respect and mutual benefit, while upholding a constructive and responsible attitude, he said. In the meantime, Li said, China will always focus on development and promote the steady growth of its own economy. China will actively respond to the concerns of foreign businesses and help them to resolve practical difficulties, in order to ensure that foreign businesses feel at ease when operating and developing in the country, he said. The meeting came following the telephone conversation between President Xi Jinping and US President Donald Trump on Sept 19, the third time both leaders talked over the phone this year, as both countries strive to stabilize their relationship. Sean Stein, president of the US-China Business Council, said that Thursday's meeting with the Chinese premier was an important opportunity to highlight the primary concerns of the US business community in China and to discuss the need for progress on longstanding issues affecting trade and investment. The National Committee on US-China Relations believes that forthright dialogue between American business, policy, and civic leaders and senior Chinese government leaders fosters mutual understanding and creates opportunities to promote US interests, according to a press release the committee issued after the meeting. Also on Thursday, Vice-Foreign Minister Ma Zhaoxu met with US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau in New York, with both sides engaging in frank, in-depth and constructive exchanges of views on China-US relations and international and regional issues of mutual concern. Ma emphasized that the Taiwan question is China's domestic affairs and concerns China's core interests. He urged the US to adhere to the one-China policy, fulfill its political commitments, and take concrete actions to maintain peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) Monument to perseverance: Worlds tallest bridge in SW Chinas Guizhou forges a path to Chinese modernization 10:01, September 28, 2025 By Lin Xiaoyi, Wang Cong, Pang Yue and Chen Tao ( Global Times An aerial view of the Huajiang Grand Canyon Bridge in Southwest China's Guizhou Province Photo: Courtesy of Guizhou Communications Investment Group Co., Ltd. On a recent raining morning in Xiaohuajiang village, Zhenfeng county, Southwest China's Guizhou Province, Liang Shaoyu, a villager in his 70, stood on the second-floor balcony, marveling at a massive bridge overhead. The greenish, steel structure looks particularly striking among the thick clouds. Less than a kilometer away, Xie Chaoqing usually gets up to the rooftop of his house, launching his drone to film the bridge and livestream it to many around the country. Across the street, a couple from East China's Zhejiang Province are busy turning an old house into a modern homestay for visitors. As the night falls, several local young people gathered at the entrance to the village, playing the traditional instruments around a bonfire, with colorful lights from the bridge overhead. They are all preparing for the big day for not just Xiaohuajiang and Guizhou but also the world's bridge construction history: the Huajiang Grand Canyon Bridge will officially open to traffic on September 28, 2025. Spanning 2,890 meters in total with a main span of 1,420 meters, it claims the crown as the world's longest span bridge built in mountainous areas. Rising 625 meters from its deck to the river surface, it also secures its place as the planet's tallest bridge. What imprint will September 28, leave on China's unfolding story? It is not just the "birthday" of the world's tallest bridge, but also the moment a new landmark tourist attraction emerges - a day when locals, who nest deep in the mountains, step further away from isolation and closer to the opportunities of the wider world. For Guizhou, the opening of the Huajiang Grand Canyon Bridge is the latest milestone in its widely celebrated bridge construction legacy. Aptly named as "the world's bridge museum," Guizhou has now built, or is in the process of building, more than 32,000 bridges. Nearly half of the world's 100 highest bridges are located here, with the top three all making Guizhou their home, the Global Times learned from Guizhou provincial transportation department. Yet behind these staggering numbers and record-setting spans lies a deeper narrative. More than transportation miracles, they stand as monuments to the perseverance and forward-looking resolve of the Guizhou people, who never cease striving for progress toward Chinese modernization. Such a resilient spirit is palpable during Global Times reporters' interviews with local residents, entrepreneurs, construction workers and engineers. Liang Shaoyu, a villager from Xiaohuajiang village, takes a photo with Cao Hui who rented his house for homestay renovation on September 26, 2025. Photo: Chen Tao/GT New bridge, new lives Liang lives by the Beipan River, where the Huajiang Grand Canyon Bridge commands the view from his window. Each day, he finds himself gazing at the structure, lost in thought - the echoes of footsteps on the ancient trade route Tea Horse Road, the metallic creak of the old iron-chain suspension bridge from decades past now merging with the sight of the colossal new bridge before him. Born in 1953 in Xiaohuajiang village, a Buyi ethnic community nestled in the folds of Guizhou's karst mountains, Liang grew up in a world locked tightly by peaks and rivers. In his childhood memories, "roads" meant the tangible exhaustion of travel, and "bridges" only barely ensured passage. At that time, Xiaohuajiang village had only three ways out: one across the river and two over the mountains. To go to the market, villagers had to wake up at 3 am to slaughter pigs, carry loads on their shoulders, and climb mountains for three to four hours. Merchants and travelers crossed the river by bamboo raft, while horse caravans loaded with salt and tobacco trekked along the remains of the ancient Tea Horse Road. Floods were frequent, often washing away the temporary stone bridges. The evolution of bridges has been a touchstone of memory for several generations in the village. According to inscriptions carved near the Huajiang Iron Chain Bridge, its construction began in 1898 during the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911), funded by local officials. When the iron bridge could no longer meet growing needs, a modern highway bridge was built downstream in 1961, allowing heavy vehicles to pass, but this bridge still cannot bypass the winding mountain road, Guizhou Daily reported. Liang said he had imagined countless times: "If one day a bridge could be built on the top of the mountain and people could cross it, how convenient it would be!" Having served in the military in Yunnan where "he had seen the outside world," he was elected by villagers as the secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) branch of Xiaohuajiang village in 1983. At his first village meeting, he proposed: "We need to develop tourism!" The statement became a laughingstock. For generations, villagers had known only farming; the idea seemed like fantasy. Today, the Huajiang Grand Canyon Bridge is transforming the village. Once open, the crossing time between the canyon's two banks will drop from the previous two hours to a mere two minutes. Investors from other provinces lease old homes for guesthouses. Liang's own ancestral home is now a hostel run by an entrepreneur from East China's Zhejiang Province, hosting visitors drawn by the bridge's fame. Next door, 34-year-old Lin Guoquan returned home to open a homestay. Every day, he tells inquiring tourists over the phone: "You can see the bridge directly from our courtyard." In recent days, all 40 of his guest rooms have been fully booked. His former classmate, Li Hanhan, volunteers at Lin's homestay after shifts at the milk-tea shop she founded, "High Bridge Tea Talk." On the evening of September 24, Lin and Li brought Global Times reporters to a gathering at the village entrance. Young locals lit a bonfire, played the suona, a traditional Chinese musical instrument, and watched a test run of the bridge's water-screen light show across the valley. She live-streamed the scene, explaining the live stream was for Xiaohuajiang villagers working outside the area. In the comments, one wrote: "I'll come back during the National Day holidays to see how beautiful our hometown has become." Liang told the Global Times that the backwardness and isolation of the past made local people hope they could escape these mountains. But now he believes each generation has its own bridges and roads to travel. "I have walked on muddy roads and stone paths, crossed iron-chain bridges, and finally witnessed the birth of a world-class marvel," Liang said. "For the youth of Xiaohuajiang, however, a broad avenue awaits, leading their hometown, toward prosperity, and into the future." Construction workers from Guizhou Communications Investment Group Corporation carry out painting work on the bridge on September 24, 2025. Photo: Chen Tao/GT Bridge-tourism drives revitalization Like Liang, Xie starts each morning on his rooftop terrace, but instead of gazing into the distance, he lifts a drone controller, sending propellers whirring into the morning mist over the gorge. From an aerial view, his lens captures the world's tallest bridge arching across the Huajiang Gorge. The experienced aerial photographer, originally from Guanling county on the opposite side of the bridge. He used to build a career in social media over in Zhejiang. A few years back, when he heard his hometown was expecte to get this record-breaking bridge, he grabbed his stuff and headed home, hoping to become a Vlogger who films the whole bridge-building process. Initially scouting for the perfect shooting angle, he trekked through surrounding villages, and discovered Xiaohuajiang village. Documenting the bridge became Xie's daily mission. He shares aerial footage and construction stories across social media platforms, now amassing over 1 million followers. Construction workers, technicians, and engineers often tune into his livestreams, forming friendships because of the bridge and across the screen. Some even brought him promotional brochures about the bridge, urging him to "promote our super project to more people outside." Through his lens, netizens at home and abroad have gradually learned that the bridge is not just a transportation hub, but also a bridge-tourism integration demonstration project. A 207-meter-high sightseeing elevator whisks visitors to the bridge tower's top in 60 seconds, where a "cloud-top cafe," nearly 800 meters above the river, awaits. Additional attractions include a 1,411-meter-long aerial racing track, professional bungee facilities, and a glass observation hall encircling the bridge, making the structure as experiential as it is functional. "Many netizens actively discuss with me during my livestream about the travel routes after coming to the bridge and how to choose the most appealing attractions among the numerous ones," Xie told the Global Times. Global Times reporters observed that as one walks along the road leading to the Yundu highway service area near the bridge, murals of ancient marine fossils on the anti-landslide retaining walls on both sides stand out prominently. "The Huajiang bridge stands on Triassic rock layers formed 250 to 201 million years ago, and is a world-famous spot for Triassic paleontology research," Zhang Xiaosong, cultural and tourism expert of Guizhou Normal University, told the Global Times. "When designing the service area nearby, our team made sure the bridge fits perfectly with the natural scenery and historical relics, all while working well as a transportation structure. Now, around this service area, you can also find canyon hotels, Triassic-themed guesthouses, and a youth archaeology research base all of which are being steadily planned and constructed." Zhang pointed out that the uniqueness of Guizhou's tourism lies in its ability to turn world-class projects directly into tourist attractions. "This not only avoids the high upfront investment of traditional tourism projects, but also significantly boosts the return on investment in transportation infrastructure construction." Known as "the world's bridge musuem," Guizhou already boasts unique bridge-tourism resources. Moreover, local authorities are continuing to explore new paths for bridge-tourism integration through the construction of one bridge after another, Zhang said. Spirit in every span When talking about his bond with the Huajiang Grand Canyon Bridge, Tian Hongrui, a 26-year-old hoisting technician for the bridge, uses an unexpectedly tender metaphor: "This bridge is like my own child." Though unmarried, he has witnessed and taken part in every stage of the bridge's journey. Joining the project back in May 2020 during its survey phase, Tian said that over the past five-plus years, he has averaged 20,000 steps per day, measuring the construction site inch by inch with his feet. During the interview with the Global Times, Tian noted that the deep U-shaped terrain of the Huajiang Gorge posed countless challenges for builders, with the most intractable being the unpredictable canyon winds. "Instant wind speeds can reach Level 14, equivalent to a strong typhoon," Tian said. His tone carries both awe for nature and the quiet tenacity of a builder. He added that during the hoisting of steel truss girders, a single segment weighs 215 tons, and work must halt if winds exceed Level 6. Meanwhile, the strict precision requirements for steel structure installation force the team to work at night when temperatures are low. But the canyon is often shrouded in thick fog after dark, leaving visibility extremely poor. Every operation feels like "walking a tightrope," combining safety risks with mounting construction difficulties, he said. But adversity bred innovation. When conventional measuring tools faltered in the wind and fog, the BeiDou navigation system provided precision, acting as a "distant eye" to secure the installation of main cables. The introduction of a smart cable-hoisting system automated transport and installation, and in the most dangerous conditions, no on-site personnel were needed. Today, Tian's biggest wish is simple yet passionate: "After the bridge opens, I must take my mom to walk on the deck, point to the bridge and tell her, 'Mom, this is the world-class project your son participated in!'" In contrast to Tian's "pride as a newcomer," Liu Hao, chief engineer of the Huajiang Grand Canyon Bridge project, who has worked on three world-class bridges, holds a more sober perspective on "breaking records." Liu is forthright: the bridge becoming the "world's tallest" was not a deliberate pursuit of a record, but a "suitable and cost-effective" choice given Guizhou's unique geographical environment. "Surrounded by mountains, only a bridge like this can connect transportation networks at the optimal cost," he told the Global Times. To him, China's bridge engineering leap is not an overnight success. "It is the cumulative result of generations," he said. The expertise inherited from predecessors, paired with advances in 5G and BeiDou, has propelled Guizhou from follower to leader in bridge technology. Behind this transformation lies a deeper impulse: "We Guizhou people were forced to innovate," Liu said. "We see bridges as gateways to modernization and to the world." On September 21, Liu stood on the bridge to welcome journalists from an ASEAN Plus Three (10+3) media delegation. "It is precisely because of this bridge that we can meet here today," he told them. From the launch of its first expressway in 2001 to becoming the first western Chinese province to achieve county-level expressway access by 2015, Guizhou used only 15 years to rewrite its destiny. By the end of 2024, the province's expressway network had reached 9,042 kilometers, studded with world-class bridges and tunnels that have drawn global attention, Guizhou Daily reported. When talking about his understanding of "bridges," Liu's tone softens, "It is mathematics, physics, and mechanics, but also philosophy, poetry, and distant horizons." In his eyes, each bridge represents a connection of shared aspiration: linking isolated mountains to markets, transforming local resources into opportunities, and weaving Guizhou's landscapes into the global tapestry. "We Guizhou people possess this poetic sensibility," Liu said. "And we are willing to strive for new miracles as we pursue for a better future." (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) Stories of High-Quality Development | Financial integration lights up households in the 'Rainbow Nation' People's Daily Online) 11:01, September 28, 2025 Narrator: Shen Hua, General Manager, Trade Finance Department, Bank of China Johannesburg Branch South Africa has long struggled with power shortages. To address the power crisis, the South African government has been actively developing renewable energy in recent years. In 2024, following a call for tenders from the South African government, PowerChina signed a contract for the Oasis 1 battery energy storage systems projects. Once the projects are completed, they will store 1,000 MWh of electricity, enough to meet the daily power needs of 100,000 households. These projects will light up households across the "Rainbow Nation." The owner of the Oasis 1 battery energy storage systems projects is Electricite De France (EDF), a foreign-invested enterprise that holds a significant position in South Africa's energy market. For a long time, it was nearly impossible for Chinese companies to participate in energy projects like this in South Africa. The reason is quite practical: on the one hand, European and American companies have deep roots in South Africa's energy sector; on the other hand, some international financial institutions lack understanding of Chinese enterprises' business models and financial structures. This is especially true for light-asset projects that focus on equipment and installation, where it's difficult to obtain credit support from local banks. But this time, the situation has changed. PowerChina's selection as contractor depended on financial backing from the Bank of China. The bank acts as a credit guarantor, issuing guarantees that comply with South African market practices to secure PowerChina's contract fulfillment. This helps companies overcome entry barriers by ensuring contractors can receive advance payments and proceed with construction while reducing risks for project owners and enhancing the professional image of Chinese companies in international projects. South Africa was the first African country to sign a Belt and Road cooperation document with China. Green development is a defining characteristic of the BRI, and green development and energy cooperation are key areas for the Bank of China's support in South Africa. In 2022, the Bank of China's Johannesburg branch issued Africa's first Chinese bank-led green bond, raising $300 million. In 2024, the bank provided 30 million yuan ($4.1 million) in financing to China State Construction Engineering Corporation South Africa to support the expansion of expressways in Durban. In July, the Bank of China reached an agreement with BAIC's South African plant to support its new energy vehicle project. Financial integration provides crucial support for the joint construction of the Belt and Road Initiative. Each fund serves as a booster for turning China-South Africa BRI cooperation from vision into reality, contributing to the synergy between the Belt and Road Initiative and South Africa's Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan. (Web editor: Hongyu, Wu Chengliang) Publishers and non-profit groups in Spain, Portugal, Australia and Ireland share the same conviction: that the best writers of childrens books are the kids themselves Babies know how to do just the bare minimum: breathe, eat, cry. And, hopefully, sleep. For everything else, however, they need support. Little by little, they learn how to dress, wash, stack building blocks and think for themselves. Their independence also grows around books. First, they listen to them. Then, they read them on their own. They even choose the books they want, selecting them from the shelves right at ground level. But typically, whatever the little one chooses, it will have been written by someone who is already grown up. A staggering amount of childrens and young adult literature is published [each year]. And the fact that [the production process doesnt involve] the children themselves is striking. The books are supposed to be talking about their future and the future of the world and yet, they cant have an opinion, reflects Vicente Ferrer Azcoiti, editor of Media Vaca, a publisher based in Valencia, Spain. Thats why, for years now, hes been asking them questions and helping them create their own literary works. He and a handful of editors from different countries share the same conviction: that the best authors of childrens books are children themselves. This concept is championed by the Portuguese organization Fabrica de Historias (Factory of Stories), the German Buchkinder, the Irish-led Kids Own Publishing Partnership, as well as its Australian sister organization. The locations, nuances and legal framework (publishing houses vs. non-profit organizations) may vary, but all subvert the usual chain of command: the children are in charge of the plot, illustrations and, sometimes, even the layout. The adults remain in the shadows, coordinating and contributing where they can. Thanks to the workshops hosted by these non-profits and publishing houses, thousands of children in different corners of the planet have already fulfilled the dream that so many adults pursue throughout their lives: admiring their own book on a shelf. Some even have two. Adrian E., Iona and Iriana released their debut novel when they were barely six years old. Together with a few other classmates, they have their signatures on a childrens book titled Que vuelvan los estorninos! (translated from the Spanish as Let the Starlings Return!), published by Media Vaca. And now, at the age of eight, in another workshop, the kids are currently preparing their second publishing venture: a story written and drawn by 25 students from the Benimaclet Municipal School, in Valencia. Each creator is tasked with a small piece of the story. Inside a book entitled 'On the Fly and its Usefulness.' It was made with drawings by 50 seven-year-old girls and boys from the Benimaclet Municipal School and published by Media Vaca. All children have the right to contribute to the culture around them; their voices should be valued and celebrated. Theyre innately creative and we dont give them enough space, opportunities and recognition to help them see that their inventiveness has no limits. Seeing themselves as part of a real project that endures like a book supports this idea, notes Anna Dollard, the creative director of Kids Own Publishings Australian sister company. She explains that her workshops, similar to those held by Media Vaca or Fabrica de Historias, typically last several weeks. Professional artists participate, working with their tiny colleagues to foster their ideas and bring them to life. Once a consensus is reached, the process begins. The children create, but they also adjust, tweak, monitor and sign off on any progress; they, of course, must provide the final approval. The level of respect has to be the same as with professionals, Ferrer explains. Finally, the result appears on paper, for creators, families, teachers and if possible libraries or bookstores. The spark can come from the organizations themselves, or from schools, museums, libraries, or other entities that request their services. Rui Andrade, who runs Fabrica de Historias with Raquel Salgueiro, sets only a few conditions: that the workshop be held during school hours and that it have some connection to the local community, or to whats being taught. It doesnt have to be more important than other tasks, but [the project] must have a soul, he maintains. A workshop by Kids' Own Publishing, in an image provided by the Australian organization. Isabella Oliveria From there, the range of possibilities explodes: there are projects with dozens, hundreds, or even thousands of young authors. Andrade previously spoke with each of the 2,500 participants in one of his latest publications. Their ages range from toddlers to full adolescence. Along the way, parents even grandparents can get involved. The Portuguese organization has expanded the process to include theater and film. They also nurture young directors, animators and soundtrack composers. Everything ultimately culminates in what Dollard summarizes as follows: Texts and illustrations come to life through an emergent, iterative and communal artistic process, where ideas come together, agreements are reached, compromises are made and a meticulously unique story is born. The adult mind would have hardly been able to conceive the story entitled On the Fly and its Usefulness. Childlike in the best sense of the word, it was developed by Media Vaca with seven-year-old creators from the Benimaclet Municipal School. Nor would it have thought of Jump Seriously written and drawn by students from the Casa da Crianca de Tires, in conjunction with Fabrica de Historias or The Cheeky Rabbit, one of the projects that Dollard is most proud of: every Saturday, for five weeks, a Hazara community (a Persian-speaking Afghan ethnic group) on the outskirts of Melbourne shared their stories and customs. The grandmothers also taught the rest of the group their traditional embroidery. They all debated which book they would collectively write and illustrate but the deciding vote fell to the children. It was agreed that they would be the ones in charge, with the support of their families. Thus was born the epic story of a young rabbit who leaves his happy home in search of adventure. In the end, he winds up returning, relieved, after dodging a few dangers. The work, which is read from right to left, includes collages with fabrics and images of typical objects from the Hazara community. When it was published, John Gulzari, the expert who advised the process, hailed it as one of the first opportunities to share stories in the Hazaragi language, which is primarily oral and repressed by the Taliban. And the director of Kids Own Publishing considers it a pillar of her organization, especially in a country as multicultural as Australia. Her mission, after all, is to tell the stories of those who are not heard. Childrens literature sometimes defines its audience with the phrase for everyone. And, with this initiative, its about making this ideal come true. Inside The Cheeky Rabbit (2023), a book produced by members of the Hazara community in Melbourne, in collaboration with Australian organization Kids' Own Publishing. These publications at least, at the start are the work of many people. Collective works, Ferrer calls them. They reflect a moment of collaborative work and the childrens real interests. No matter how hard an adult tries to imitate it, the original will always be more authentic, Dollard adds. And it turns out that, in the process, young authors even teach a thing or two to their supposed guides: the Australian expert notes that childrens creations include fewer messages and morals than most books aimed at them. In the face of the growing homogenization of the sector, they offer stories and voices that are as original as they are unexpected. Furthermore, Dollard emphasizes, theyre not born from strategic plans or sales imperatives. A cause for joy, of course. But also a source of difficulty, as Rui Andrade clarifies: his model is as laudable and inclusive as it is expensive and almost impossible to cover with market revenues. The Portuguese publisher has known this since 2012 through Fabrica de Historias. But two years before the organization began, he opened Cabecudos, the first bookstore specializing in childrens and young adult books in Lisbon. And he believes that the low profitability explains why many more similar experiences arent emerging around the world. Working with children and publishing their works requires an ethical framework that contrasts with the commercial publishing model. Sales revenue doesnt and cant support this community activity. Which brings us back to taking childrens creativity and ideas seriously, Dollard argues. We should consider what kind of publishing market we want [and] what books are really for, Ferrer adds. One of the authors of the books promoted by Kids' Own Publishing poses with her creation, in a photo provided by the organization. Thomas McCammon For now, the financial accounts often dont add up. And these programs must rely on voluntary efforts or public funds. The balance of satisfaction, however, is more than just positive. In a conversation with Rui Andrade, a teacher shared what a creative child had confessed to her: I [am] no longer afraid of drawing. And one of the young authors of The Cheeky Rabbit video-called her grandmother in Afghanistan to show her the finished product. Kids Own Publishings slogan reads: Changing the world, one book at a time. By taking very small steps but also some very big ones. Just like the artists. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Over 2,400 Indians deported from U.S. this year: foreign ministry Xinhua) 11:24, September 28, 2025 NEW DELHI, Sept. 26 (Xinhua) -- India's Ministry of External Affairs on Friday confirmed that as many as 2,417 nationals had been deported from the United States this year so far. Announcing the figure before media persons, the ministry's spokesman Randhir Jaiswal stated that India stood firm against illegal migration and was committed to promoting legal pathways for migration. "Wherever there is a person who does not possess legal status in any country and he or she is referred to us and a claim is made that he or she is an Indian national, we do the background check, we confirm the nationality and then take them back," he added. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) The current owners of the legendary Manhattan restaurant manage the 99-year-old establishment with respect and care, protecting it from property speculation Few places in the Big Apple are as legendary as the Russian Tea Room. How much of whats said about it is true, and how much is just myth? Was Madonna really fired after two weeks working in the coat check? It doesnt sound far-fetched. Did Leonard Bernstein write the opening bars of his famous Fancy Free on a napkin there? Probably. Did Zero Mostel himself serve food and drinks wearing an apron in an act of extravagance? Thats what people say. Did the ghost of Anastasia, daughter of Tsar Nicholas II, appear from time to time during renovations? That sounds more unlikely. But that theres a huge rotating polar bear-shaped aquarium and a tree decorated with Faberge eggs on the second floor, and a several-meter-high model of the Kremlin on the third, we can confirm as true. We wont tell you which Chagall artworks are authentic and which arent, explains Isabella Biberaj, the venues chief operating officer and daughter of the owner, laughing. She grows more serious when talking about the presence of ghosts, which she assures do roam the buildings five floors. Our intention as owners is to make sure all their past lives continue to have a place, she says, speaking somewhere between metaphorically and literally. New York's the Russian Tea Room will celebrate its centenary in 2026. Claire Esparros The cuisine maintains its Russian flavor with dishes such as its tender beef stroganoff. Claire Esparros One of the most striking pieces in the Russian Tea Room is the famous aquarium shaped like a juggling polar bear. Claire Esparros The original tea room switched to selling alcohol, mainly vodka, as soon as Prohibition ended. Claire Esparros The Faberge egg tree sculpture, another of the restaurants marvelous extravagances. Claire Esparros The Russian Tea Room survives real estate speculation. Claire Esparros Everywhere you look in The Russian Tea Room, theres detail to be noticed. The lamps are no exception. Claire Esparros The Russian Tea Room is located in a building barely six meters wide on Manhattans 57th Street, and eventually became the unofficial snack bar of Carnegie Hall. In 2026, it will celebrate its 100th anniversary. Or rather, several anniversaries, because its history has been a constant reinvention: changes of ownership, concept, and menu; closures and reopenings; lavish renovations. Today, its activity is split between tourists and regulars on the ground floor and private parties in its multiple rooms. Just this year, it hosted a Tony Awards celebration in June and a Fashion Week event in February. The New York Times, not surprisingly, described it as the citys longest-lasting symbol of glamour, the intersection of money and art that defines the heart of New York. Its current owners, who bought it in 2006, run it as a family business and treat the space almost like a museum. The older it gets, the more charm this time machine exudes, transporting visitors to eras long gone or perhaps to a time that never existed at all. At least, never coexisted in time and space: a blend of romantic style with original Art Deco sconces, chandeliers, more than 20 samovars, leather sofas, white tablecloths, and silver trays. Its the dream of Tsarist Russia filtered through a historicist American lens. One of the main architects of that identity was Sidney Kaye, who began attracting Broadway audiences after the New York Philharmonic moved from Carnegie Hall to Lincoln Center in the 1960s. He had bought the venue in 1955, and one year he was so pleased with the Christmas decorations that he decided never to take them down. Christmas is always just around the corner. Besides, it looks more Russian this way, he declared. He died in 1967, and his widow, Faith Stewart-Gordon, defined the essence of the place like no other: Let the restaurant remain as people remember it, not as it was. This actress, whose Broadway career never took off, ran the business for another three decades, ushering in its most popular and celebrity-filled era. She wrote three books on the subject: two cookbooks and one memoir. In the latter, titled The Russian Tea Room: A Love Story, published in 1999, she reflected: I am growing old and frivolous. I miss the seriosity of my youth. She never expected that in her later years she would have Salvador Dali dining at her table and Elizabeth Taylor debuting the large diamond of her engagement ring to Richard Burton there. Julio Iglesias was also a regular. The venue had its golden era in film during the 1980s and was immortalized in movies such as When Harry Met Sally, Manhattan, and, most notably, Tootsie, where Dustin Hoffman first appeared before Sidney Pollack dressed as a woman. From Carnegie Hall to the Russian Tea Room is just a short step, and Julio Iglesias couldnt resist stopping by in 1989 after a benefit concert. Ron Galella (Ron Galella Collection via Getty) Yoko Ono, in 1973. She and other figures of the avant-garde began frequenting the venue in the late 1960s. Fairchild Archive (Penske Media via Getty Images) The decor in the restaurants early years was much more understated. MCNY/Gottscho-Schleisner (Getty Images) The new generations have also renewed their vows with the Russian Tea Room, and while some customers request the Tootsie table, others ask for Blairs table from Gossip Girl, Biberaj notes. In any case, after COVID and with the resurgence of nostalgia, a very favorable era has arrived for the venue. Young people want to experience the old New York. We havent had to do anything to adapt to that trend, he explains. But lets rewind to 1926. Although its not entirely clear, the first recorded owner was Polish chocolatier Jacob Zysman, but the person who truly gave the place its identity was, once again, a woman: the Russian-born dancer Albertina Rasch. Born in Vienna, she put on the map a business that had initially started as a tea and chocolate salon across the street, but as soon as Prohibition ended, she expanded the menu to include vodka. Rasch combined a remarkable artistic career performing alongside Sarah Bernhardt and being among the first to blend classical ballet with jazz with her hospitality work. She was also the wife of Dimitri Tiomkin, who would compose the soundtracks for High Noon and Its a Wonderful Life. With such a hostess, Russian dancers found a sanctuary in the restaurant: a place where their language was spoken, their customs maintained, and their food served. Although Rasch stayed only until 1933 and the original Russian identity gradually faded, the tradition endured. It was said that in the 1940s, George Balanchine would appear with a dancer on each arm, and three decades later, Rudolf Nureyev would declare it his favorite spot in the U.S. The restaurant's current appearance is the result of an ambitious renovation carried out by Walter LeRoy in 1999. New York Daily News Archive (NY Daily News via Getty Images) Tourists, curious visitors, and regulars continue to come here in search of a unique experience. Claire Esparros The restaurants current appearance, however, is the legacy of the major renovation undertaken by Warner LeRoy, owner of the Central Park restaurant Tavern On The Green, when he purchased it from Stewart-Gordon for $6.5 million in 1995. It closed in 1996 to be renovated, but the work dragged on, the budget ballooned to $35 million, and it wasnt able to open until 1999. LeRoy conducted archival research, translated thousands of recipes from Russian into English to create an imperial menu that spanned Scandinavian to Mongolian traditions, and opened to tremendous fanfare. But he didnt enjoy his new toy for long: he died in 2001, burdened by debt and harsh restaurant reviews, amid the citys crisis following the September 11 attacks. The family that now runs the Russian Tea Room had been regulars and decided to rescue it. I learn something new about this place every day, and its a privilege to dive into its archives, says Biberaj. They have vowed to keep the restaurant not only profitable and busy, but also safe from one of its greatest enemies: real estate speculators. The restaurant holds the air rights over its five floors and rubs shoulders (or ankles) with the skyscrapers that surround it and define the citys new skyline. But Biberaj says no offer could lure them: The Russian Tea Room is not for sale. It will remain open for many, many years to come. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Moscow is cracking down on complaints calling for the return of troops three years after the draft that shocked Russia Women can be a powerful force in Russia. Their protests to bring their men home helped bring peace in the First Chechen War. And they built the country up after World War II in countless homes without fathers, just mothers and grandmothers. On September 21, 2022, Vladimir Putin decreed a massive mobilization to continue the offensive against Ukraine that had been launched a few months earlier. While men boarded buses and trains, women took to the streets. The threat of destabilization loomed over the Kremlin, but it ultimately calmed the storm with a campaign of pressure. Three years later, fear reigns among women, although some try to keep the protest alive. The Ministry of Defense declared that it had mobilized 300,000 men in September 2022. It was also the last time it provided a death toll in the ranks of the Russian military, reporting 5,937 fatalities among its professional forces. An analysis of data by three media outlets Mediazona, Meduza, and the BBC suggests that around 200,000 Russians have lost their lives so far in the war. We show the reality that the authorities try to hide behind an appearance of stability to those citizens who have not been directly affected by the war, says a member of the womens platform of mobilized people, Way Home (Put Domoi in Russian), on request of anonymity. Military propaganda in the Moscow metro, August 29. Contributor (Getty Images) Shes the only one who answers her phone. A handful of women who three years ago openly demanded the return of their sons and husbands no longer respond to messages. The authorities declared this movement a foreign agent and issued several warnings to its followers when their protests in front of monuments to Russian soldiers began to go viral. A few dozen women gathered in front of the Ministry of Defense a year ago and were arrested. Now, the few who go to the monuments do so alone, lay a flower, and leave. At the end of last August, a court sentenced Olga Tsukanova, former director of the now-defunct Council of Mothers and Wives, to one year and seven months of hard labor, plus a two-year ban on online interactions. She had previously spent six months in pretrial detention. The authorities dont make promises, they just pretend theres no problem, says the Way Home member. The war seems endless, and theres no hope of it ending tomorrow. Telegram, which operates in Russia with the approval of security forces, has labeled the Way Home channel as fake. Despite the obstacles, the movement urges its tens of thousands of followers to continue bringing flowers every Saturday to memorials to war veterans and fallen soldiers. We will not allow our men, the mobilized, to be forgotten. We will bring them home, the organization warned in August after breaking a long silence on Telegram. The bloodshed in Ukraine continues, and in the silence imposed by the Kremlin, the voices of those women who have shaken off their fear because they have already lost everything resonate even louder. This week, the mother of a soldier who has been missing since December 2023 sent a desperate appeal to Vladimir Putin in a public video. Visibly shaken, Galina Zeleneva, from the Tambov region, asks for clarification on whether her son, Vitali Klychnikov, has died or been taken prisoner. Through tears, she asks for his body to be returned to her if he died defending the homeland, so that we can mourn him. The mother laments the wasted trips to Moscow, her unanswered letters to the Ministry of Defense and the Federal Security Service (FSB), and the attitude of her sons father, who has reappeared to request compensation for his sons death. His father never took an interest in him; he didnt even say hello to him until he was 38, Zeleneva laments. Elena Antiosova, a resident of the Tula region, has also made another public appeal to the authorities to bring back her twin sons. Kirill and Andrei, 28, were mobilized in September 2022 and captured by Ukrainian forces in June of the following year, according to their family. Antiosova has confirmed their survival through statements from a comrade in the 137th Airborne Regiment and the existence of footage of their surrender. Im alone, the single mother laments aloud. My children werent afraid; they stood up and went to defend Russia. My children are heroes, and for their bravery, Vladimir Vladimirovich [Putin], you awarded my children the Order of Courage, she says in one of the many recordings she has sent to the authorities. If you continue to remain silent, I will be forced to go to Ukraine to bring my children back, she threatens. For other women, theres no consolation left. Hello. I died yesterday, but Ill be buried in 30 years. Yesterday, my husband died in a drone attack on his vehicle, writes the widow of a mobilized soldier in a letter published by Way Home. My husband managed to survive and escape injury for almost three years, but yesterday his luck ran out. He wont see his 42nd birthday in a week, she continues, before offering some final advice to the other women. Love people while they live; the dead dont need love. And avoid sending them to war by any means possible. Theres no way out except in a coffin, the letter concludes. Desertions increase Recruitment statistics are a state secret. As an example, the independent media outlet Vazhnie Istorii analyzed a list of 2,153 recruits in the Tomsk region. The oldest were 60 years old, and the youngest, 19. At least one in 10 has been declared dead in these three years of war, although when the wounded and missing are added, the figure rises to one in four. Nine soldiers who underwent amputations were classified as having moderate injuries and returned to the front. There doesnt seem to be any immediate mobilization in sight. According to Putin, his forces total 700,000 soldiers in Ukraine. However, the Russian government is preparing for another recruitment drive when it deems it necessary. A new electronic enlistment notification system has been in operation since August, and there have already been cases of Russians being stopped at the border while trying to leave the country. Unlike cumbersome paper-based bureaucracy, this mechanism allows a citizens exit to be blocked by customs from the moment the notification is sent. The number of people wanting to desert the Russian army has tripled from 2023 to 2025, Grigory Sverdlin, founder of Idite Lesom [translatable in Russian as walk through the forest or get lost!], an organization that helps those called up to flee Russia, told this newspaper. The platform claims to have helped 54,000 Russians avoid mobilization and another 2,209 escape the country. Russia hides its defection figures. The Ukrainian Prosecutors Office recorded more than 81,000 cases as of last year. According to another investigation by Vazhnie Istorii, at least 49,000 Russians had defected by the end of 2024. This years peace talks between Russia and Ukraine, under pressure from the United States, has caused some Russians to postpone their escape plans. We had planned the routes, but they preferred not to risk it and waited for the war to end. After two or three months of waiting, there was a surge in people wanting to defect again, Sverdlin says. For the Way Home member, these negotiations have been a farce, an attempt to deceive and provide a new spoonful of the delicacy called hope. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Article 1 of North Koreas Reactionary Ideology and Culture Rejection Act, passed in 2020, outlines why Pyongyang believes the legislation is necessary: The law contributes to the strengthening of our sense of ideology, revolution, and social class by launching a powerful battle to obstruct the inflow and distribution of reactionary ideology and culture and anti-socialist ideology and culture. Article 7 adds that strict punishments, including the death penalty, will be applied to any citizen bringing in, viewing, and distributing reactionary ideology and culture, depending on the severity, regardless of the reason and the offenders social class. The measure is part of a trio of regulations that Kim Ilhyuk, a North Korean defector, calls the three evil laws. They were implemented during the Covid pandemic lockdown and intended to impose even stricter control on the population of the country, which Kim Jong Un, North Koreas supreme leader, rules with an iron fist. The focus, to a large extent, was on young people and their interaction with foreign cultures. The executions, Kim says, are public and carried out by firing squad. He has witnessed several. There are usually two every three months. Attendance is mandatory. And, among those executed, he remembers seeing someone he knew well. He was like a younger brother to me. He was only 22, but he was executed by firing squad on the charge of watching and distributing 70 songs and three South Korean television series. Kim Ikhyuk, who fled North Korea in 2023 and now lives in Seoul, in a photo provided by him. It took place around July 2022. A year later, Kim managed to escape with his pregnant wife and his mother. They fulfilled a plan his deceased father had made them promise to years earlier. They escaped by boat and reached the South Korean island of Yeonpyeong. They carried his fathers ashes with them in an urn. Today, the family lives in Seoul. Kim is on a video call while devouring an ear of corn and holding his daughter, born shortly after the familys arrival, on his knees. After a while of talking, he also takes a chubby baby in his arms, who looks at the camera. The defector talks like a machine gun and apologizes for eating at the same time: he barely has time to tell his story between his day job at a restaurant, which he has just finished, and his night job driving a forklift at a logistics center. He says he works hard to support his family. But Im happy. He decided to flee after he and his wife were sentenced to re-education through forced labor under another of the three evil laws, the Youth Education Guarantee Act. They were punished for living together as a couple without registering. They evaded punishment for a while with bribes, but they convinced themselves it was better to escape. His account echoes the conclusions of a report by the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) published on September 12. The document states that the death penalty has been more widely allowed by law and implemented in practice in the last decade, and that the regime carries out executions even for consuming or disseminating foreign information (such as publications, films, or music) from nations it describes as hostile. Pyongyang, the document asserts, has introduced more laws, policies and practices that are subjecting citizens to increased surveillance and control in all parts of life; it has institutionalized forced labor and intensified its disconnection from the rest of the world. In 2025, the country remains more closed than at almost any other time in its history, it notes. No other population is under such restrictions in todays world. The findings are based, among other things, on interviews with 314 victims and witnesses who fled the country during the period analyzed (from 2014 to 2025), which largely coincides with Kim Jong Uns reign. The essential message is that things havent improved, but they have worsened in some areas, such as freedom of expression, executions, food, and technological surveillance, said James Heenan, representative of the UN Office of the Human Rights Commissioner in Seoul, via videoconference. For Heenan, the key is how to move forward and to extract gestures from Pyongyang in certain areas, such as political prisons. North Koreans can end up incarcerated for reasons as arbitrary as using a newspaper carrying a picture of one of the leaders faces to plaster a wall (a genuine case, according to Heenan). He believes there is the possibility of gradually improving if there is a political space for some openness. The background to all of this is the current isolation. The country has never been so isolated. Seongyun Ryu, who fled North Korea in 2019 while completing the seventh of his 10 years of mandatory military service, says that when Kim came to power in 2011 he tried to introduce changes, until he was warned by those at the top of the hierarchy that it was dangerous to change course and better to maintain the system. Kim went back to being like his father [Kim Jong-il]. According to the UN, the sense of hope of Kims early years was followed by purges and repressive measures. Government control over all aspects of citizens lives was the most absolute in decades, the document states. This control accelerated during the pandemic, facilitated by surveillance technology. Seongyun, 30, is answering a video call from the Philippines, where hes studying Western Philosophy. He would like to be a teacher, giving classes on the importance of freedom. He speaks in excellent English, which he has learned since arriving in South Korea by walking across the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ), the line that divides the Korean peninsula into north and south at the 38th parallel and serves as a border between two countries that are technically still at war they never signed a peace treaty after the 1950-1953 Korean War. He prepared his escape for three years. He never shared his plans with anyone. You cant even trust your best friend. When he set foot on South Korean soil, he thought that even in 100 years, the North would not be able to match the South in terms of mentality, infrastructure, or health conditions. He then weighed 52 kilos (he is 1.68 meters tall), and his condition corroborates the malnutrition that affects more than 40% of North Koreans according to the UN. Seongyun believes that what Pyongyang fears most is the populations exposure to the rest of the world. If people had other information, they wouldnt obey the Workers Party [the countrys single ruling party]. He adds: Kim Jong Un says were strong because of nuclear weapons. But for North Korea, information coming from other countries is like a nuclear weapon. Internet access is almost nonexistent; there is only a strictly controlled national intranet, available primarily to research institutions and civil servants. The media is under tight government control. And everyone must participate in weekly self-criticism sessions, the primary goal of which is collective surveillance and indoctrination. In Seongyuns words, it is a brainwashing process carried out through Juche ideology, the official ideology developed by North Koreas founder, Kim Il-sung, grandfather of the current leader. Its like a religion, in which members of the Kim dynasty are like gods, and an offense can lead to death. Lina Yoon, a senior researcher at Human Rights Watch focusing on North Korea, believes the increasing repression is related to the failure to achieve the prosperity promised by Kim Jong Un. At the beginning of his reign, there was a period of economic experimentation and slight opening. Then came new rounds of sanctions for the countrys nuclear program, the short-circuiting of trade, and the fiasco of international negotiations in 2018 and 2019. Since then, signs of repression have begun to emerge. There are suddenly a lot of ideological campaigns to demonstrate loyalty, especially among young people. They are a generation, says Yoon, exposed to unofficial information, especially among those living near the borders. Theyve seen a lot of Chinese or Korean films and series, and are more accustomed to expressing discontent with government policies. Kim Ilhyuk, the other defector, explains that since he was a child, he grew accustomed to watching South Korean television and listening to the radio. His father did so every day. Being close to the border, they were able to tune into the neighboring countrys frequencies. He was struck by the realistic, sincere, and truthful content, compared to that of North Korea. The news openly criticized the government, pointed out the presidents mistakes, and reported on accidents. In North Korea, national incidents were never reported. There is absolutely no criticism of the party institutions. All we receive is fake news. He believes the repressive shift is related to the widespread consumption of foreign culture among young people. Series, music, and movies were shared on USB drives and could easily be watched at friends houses. I guess the North Korean government sensed something was seriously wrong; that it was a sign of corruption, a threat to the socialist way of life, he concludes. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Opinion articles written in the style of their author." These texts are to be based on verified facts and must be respectful towards people, even though their actions may be criticized. shall feature, along with the author's name (regardless of their greater or lesser renown), a footer stating their office, academic title, political affiliation (if any) and main occupation, or the occupation related to the topic being assessed In the nine months since Donald Trumps return to the White House, the overall goals of his agenda have become clear enough: weaken the United States abroad to create an environment friendly to dictators, while using the U.S. government and armed forces to establish a dictatorship at home. Will it work? The success of Trumps plan depends on how we see it, or rather, whether we choose not to see it. In the worst case, Americans choose not to notice, look away as their neighbors and coworkers are swept up in immigration raids and their cities become militarized, and then pretend that they had no other choice but to abandon democracy. Pretexts will be found. They already are, most obviously in the drumbeat of lies about urban crime and as we have seen in the aftermath of the murder of the right-wing activist Charlie Kirk the selective exploitation of political violence. Let us not make the mistake of confusing pretexts for the underlying policies. Whether the transition to authoritarianism in the U.S. succeeds depends on us. In Trumps paradigm, this is all a reality show, and we are merely inconsequential extras, without lines, forever in the background. Call it a show of force. That is how the deployments of National Guard troops (and Marines) in U.S. cities have been (too frequently) described. But what kind of force is it? And what kind of show? And how can we get beyond seeing it as a show in which we have no role to play? The military deployments are obviously illegal and designed to intimidate. Even if the current Supreme Courts maximal deference to Trump means lawsuits will have minimal impact, what soldiers are being ordered to do plainly violates the long and rightly valued precedent that the military is not to be used for law enforcement. Deploying troops for that purpose traduces the rationale for maintaining armed forces, which is to defend a country from attack. The intimidation, though, is largely up to us. Do we choose to be intimidated? Many people, such as undocumented workers or those who merely look like they fit that profile have good reason to be fearful and lie low. But many of us, both citizens and especially elected officials at the state level, have an obligation to think and react creatively. For starters, that means refusing to be co-opted into the show. The risk is that our reflexive militarism moves us, mindlessly, towards fascism. Soldiers get the benefit of patriotic symbolism. But if they are loitering in U.S. cities, they are not defending the country. Using gravely handsome soldiers to illustrate news reports about self-invasion is not a neutral editorial choice. On the contrary, it promotes the perception that, in the end, soldiers were simply obeying orders and carrying out their patriotic duty. In fact, these urban deployments are the political equivalent of a lit fuse. By sending troops to city after city, the Trump administration is creating the statistical likelihood of an incident a service members suicide, a friendly-fire incident, the shooting of a protester that can be used to manufacture some greater crisis. Preventing this outcome requires seeing where passivity leads. If we do not communicate with our friends and family in the armed services about the risks, we are accomplices to their being used and abused in the service of authoritarianism. If we allow Trumps show of force to cow us, then we are assisting him in a process that he cannot achieve on his own. I am writing this in Dnipro, Ukraine, during an air-raid alert. I had scholarly work to do, and the history project that brought me here was not made easier by having some colleagues on active duty, and others kept sleepless by the missiles and drones. They all showed up, though. I mention this to help us keep perspective. Ukraine is being invaded by Russia. No one is invading America. We can only invade ourselves. And whether that happens depends on whether we choose to see the overall logic, call things what they are, talk to one another, and get on with the work of defending democracy, decency, and humane values. The question, of course, is whether civil courage can be channeled into effective democratic resistance. Americas federalist system offers grounds for hope. After Congress enacted civil-rights legislation in the 1960s to dismantle the Souths racist Jim Crow political order, the Republican Party embraced states rights as a rallying cry and strategy for resisting federal authority. Now the tables have turned: Republicans fully support Trumps use of federal power against universities, media outlets, law firms, and cities, whereas Democratic state governments are becoming an anti-authoritarian bulwark. For example, Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzkers rejection of a deployment of National Guard troops in Chicago forced Trump to back down (at least for now). This refusal to implement federal government policy, sometimes called soft secession, sets the stage for a standoff between state governments and the Trump administration on issues ranging from the conduct of elections to public health and even climate change. The fate of Americas democracy if not of America itself may depend on the outcome. Timothy Snyder, the author or editor of 20 books, holds the inaugural Chair in Modern European History at the Munk School of Global Affairs and Public Policy at the University of Toronto and is a permanent fellow at the Institute for Human Sciences in Vienna. Project Syndicate, 2025. Sign up for our weekly newsletter to get more English-language news coverage from EL PAIS USA Edition Wang Huning, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference and head of a central delegation, and members of the delegation talk with villagers at a rural tourism cooperative in Burqin County of Altay, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Sept. 27, 2025. Entrusted by Xi Jinping, general secretary of the CPC Central Committee, Wang led a group of the delegation members to Burqin County and visited local officials and residents on Saturday. (Xinhua/Yao Dawei) URUMQI, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- Members of a central delegation on Saturday continued to visit local officials and residents in various parts of northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region and the Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps (XPCC). Wang Huning, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, and head of the central delegation, led a group of delegation members to Altay's Burqin County. Wang stressed the need to prioritize border defense, strengthen and innovate social governance, integrate Xinjiang's unique cultural and tourism resources, and advance eco-prioritized, green development to provide high-quality ecological support for sustainable growth. On Saturday afternoon, after the visit, Wang led the group back to Beijing. Meanwhile, other delegation groups separately visited the city of Artux in the Kirgiz Autonomous Prefecture of Kizilsu, Tacheng Prefecture, the cities of Yining and Turpan, and the XPCC-administered city of Alaer. Wang Huning, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference and head of a central delegation, and members of the delegation visit a border police station in Burqin County of Altay, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Sept. 27, 2025. Entrusted by Xi Jinping, general secretary of the CPC Central Committee, Wang led a group of the delegation members to Burqin County and visited local officials and residents on Saturday. (Xinhua/Yao Dawei) Li Ganjie and members of a central delegation visit a primary school in Artux City in the Kirgiz Autonomous Prefecture of Kizilsu, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Sept. 27, 2025. Entrusted by Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, members of a central delegation on Saturday continued to visit local officials and residents in various parts of northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region and the Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps (XPCC). (Xinhua/Jin Liangkuai) Li Ganjie and members of a central delegation visit an elevator company in Artux City in the Kirgiz Autonomous Prefecture of Kizilsu, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Sept. 27, 2025. Entrusted by Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, members of a central delegation on Saturday continued to visit local officials and residents in various parts of northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region and the Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps (XPCC). (Xinhua/Jin Liangkuai) Shohrat Zakir and members of a central delegation visit a land reclamation memorial hall in Alaer City, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Sept. 27, 2025. Entrusted by Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, members of a central delegation on Saturday continued to visit local officials and residents in various parts of northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region and the Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps (XPCC). (Xinhua/Xin Yuewei) Shohrat Zakir and members of a central delegation visit an exhibition hall on strengthening the sense of community for the Chinese nation in Aksu Prefecture, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Sept. 27, 2025. Entrusted by Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, members of a central delegation on Saturday continued to visit local officials and residents in various parts of northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region and the Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps (XPCC). (Xinhua/Xin Yuewei) Shen Yiqin and members of a central delegation visit an exhibition hall in Tacheng Prefecture, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Sept. 27, 2025. Entrusted by Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, members of a central delegation on Saturday continued to visit local officials and residents in various parts of northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region and the Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps (XPCC). (Xinhua/Jiang Fan) Shen Yiqin and members of a central delegation visit a chemical company in northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Sept. 27, 2025. Entrusted by Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, members of a central delegation on Saturday continued to visit local officials and residents in various parts of northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region and the Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps (XPCC). (Xinhua/Jiang Fan) Wang Dongfeng and members of a central delegation visit a village in Hotan County, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Sept. 27, 2025. Entrusted by Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, members of a central delegation on Saturday continued to visit local officials and residents in various parts of northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region and the Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps (XPCC). (Xinhua/Chen Bin) Wang Dongfeng and members of a central delegation visit a residential community in Yining City, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Sept. 27, 2025. Entrusted by Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, members of a central delegation on Saturday continued to visit local officials and residents in various parts of northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region and the Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps (XPCC). (Xinhua/Chen Bin) Liu Zhenli and members of a central delegation visit a police station in Yizhou District of Hami, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Sept. 27, 2025. Entrusted by Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, members of a central delegation on Saturday continued to visit local officials and residents in various parts of northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region and the Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps (XPCC). (Xinhua/Wang Peng) Liu Zhenli and members of a central delegation visit a renewable energy information management center in Hami, northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Sept. 27, 2025. Entrusted by Xi Jinping, general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, members of a central delegation on Saturday continued to visit local officials and residents in various parts of northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region and the Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps (XPCC). (Xinhua/Wang Peng) CHANGCHUN, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- Tang Renjian, former minister of agriculture and rural affairs of China, was on Sunday handed the death penalty with a two-year reprieve for taking massive bribes. Tang, also a former secretary of the agricultural ministry's leading Party members group, has been deprived of his political rights for life, while all of his personal property will be confiscated and his illegal gains from bribery will be recovered and turned over to the national treasury, according to the verdict issued by the Intermediate People's Court of Changchun in northeast China's Jilin Province. The court stated that between 2007 and 2024, Tang took undue advantage of his various positions at both central and local levels to assist others in matters such as business operation, project contracting and job adjustment. In exchange, he accepted money and valuables totaling over 268 million yuan (about 38 million U.S. dollars). The court ruled that Tang's offenses, which inflicted severe damage on the interests of the state and the people, warranted the death penalty. Yet considering his cooperation in confessing to his crimes, returning illicit gains, and other mitigating factors, the court granted Tang leniency in its final judgment. The case was heard at the court on July 25. During the trial, prosecutors, the defendant and his defense counsel cross-examined the evidence and gave their respective accounts. Tang pleaded guilty and expressed remorse in his final statement. Wang Huning, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), delivers a speech at a reception to celebrate the upcoming 76th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China, in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 28, 2025. (Xinhua/Liu Weibing) BEIJING, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- China's top political advisor Wang Huning on Sunday urged efforts to consolidate and develop the patriotic united front so as to pool forces for advancing national rejuvenation on all fronts through Chinese modernization. Wang, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, made the remarks at a reception held in Beijing to celebrate the upcoming 76th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China. Highlighting the great feats achieved by China under the leadership of the CPC over the past 76 years, Wang said that since the 18th CPC National Congress in 2012, China has entered an irreversible historical process toward national rejuvenation and emerged as a thriving and prosperous major country on the world stage. The fourth plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee, slated to take place in October, will study the proposals for formulating the 15th Five-Year Plan for national economic and social development, Wang said, adding that the 2026-2030 period will be a crucial phase for the country to consolidate the foundation and make all-out efforts for basically realizing socialist modernization. Regarding Hong Kong and Macao, Wang reiterated the commitment to comprehensively, faithfully and resolutely implementing the principle of "one country, two systems" in order to ensure that Hong Kong and Macao are administered by patriots, and supporting the regions to achieve economic growth, improve people's lives and integrate themselves into the country's overall development. On Taiwan, Wang pledged efforts to adhere to the one-China principle and the 1992 Consensus, boost cooperation and exchanges across the Taiwan Strait in various fields, and resolutely oppose "Taiwan independence" separatist activities and foreign interference. Efforts will also be made to facilitate overseas Chinese, returned Chinese nationals and their relatives to play a greater role in promoting Chinese modernization, advancing national reunification and building a community with a shared future for humanity. About 760 representatives from Hong Kong, Macao, Taiwan and overseas Chinese communities joined the reception. Wang Huning, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), attends a reception to celebrate the upcoming 76th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China, in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 28, 2025. (Xinhua/Gao Jie) This photo taken with a mobile phone on Sept. 27, 2025 shows Chairman of Sudan's Transitional Sovereign Council and Commander of the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan (3rd L) talking with military commanders in El Obeid, North Kordofan State, Sudan. The Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) announced Saturday that it had achieved significant victories in its fight against the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in western Sudan's Kordofan region. (Photo by Mohamed Sid Ahmed/Xinhua) KHARTOUM, Sept. 27 (Xinhua) -- The Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) announced Saturday that it had achieved significant victories in its fight against the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in western Sudan's Kordofan region. "North Kordofan State is witnessing major operational gains, including the killing of hundreds of militia fighters, the seizure of more than 100 combat vehicles, and the liberation of several areas," the SAF spokesperson's office said in a statement. The statement also noted that Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan, chairman of Sudan's Transitional Sovereign Council and commander of the SAF, visited the strategic city of Bara, which the military recaptured on September 11. Fierce fighting has continued since Friday night between the SAF and the RSF on the western outskirts of El Obeid, the capital of North Kordofan State. Field sources said the SAF, backed by allied joint forces, recaptured the town of Um Sumaima, west of El Obeid near the border of North and West Kordofan. The area has changed hands several times between the two sides. The SAF Special Forces said in a statement that it had expelled RSF units from Um Sumaima, pushing them about 50 km west of El Obeid toward the outskirts of Al-Khuwei, a town in West Kordofan. The Joint Forces of armed movements allied with the army stated Saturday: "Military operations in the Kordofan area are proceeding according to plan, with precise implementation on the ground driven by determination and resolve. We have achieved significant victories, and the sacrifices of our heroes will bear fruit in a victory worthy of Sudan's dignity." For its part, the RSF said it had repelled an SAF-led attack on multiple fronts west of El Obeid. "We inflicted heavy losses in personnel and equipment on the attacking forces," the RSF said. "Our forces remain stationed at their positions and are determined to advance toward new fronts in preparation for continuing the march toward enemy strongholds." Meanwhile, in El Fasher, the capital of North Darfur State, the SAF's 6th Infantry Division reported that it had repelled a new RSF assault on the besieged city. "The militia attempted to infiltrate and attack El Fasher from the north and southwest, but our forces repelled them and inflicted significant losses in personnel and equipment," the division said. "In the evening, the militia shelled residential neighborhoods with heavy artillery, suicide drones, and light weapons, but no civilian casualties were reported." It added that the situation in the city remains "stable." Since May 10, 2024, violent clashes have been ongoing in El Fasher between the SAF and its allies on one side, and the RSF on the other, with the fighting intensifying in recent days. Sudan remains gripped by a conflict between the SAF and the RSF, which erupted in April 2023. The fighting has killed tens of thousands of people and displaced millions, both internally and across borders, deepening the country's humanitarian crisis. This photo taken with a mobile phone on Sept. 27, 2025 shows Chairman of Sudan's Transitional Sovereign Council and Commander of the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan (2nd R, front) saluting citizens who gather to welcome him in El Obeid, North Kordofan State, Sudan. The Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) announced Saturday that it had achieved significant victories in its fight against the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in western Sudan's Kordofan region. (Photo by Mohamed Sid Ahmed/Xinhua) Zhao Leji, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the National People's Congress (NPC) Standing Committee, holds a symposium at the Standing Committee of the Beijing Municipal People's Congress in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 28, 2025. Zhao made an investigation and research tour in Beijing on Sunday. (Xinhua/Huang Jingwen) BEIJING, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- Zhao Leji, China's top legislator, on Sunday called for efforts to promote high-quality development of the country's people's congresses, enabling them to perform a stronger role. Zhao, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the National People's Congress Standing Committee, made the remarks during an investigation and research tour in Beijing. During the tour, Zhao visited a liaison office for lawmakers and a humanoid robot innovation center, where he talked with legislators and citizens. He also learned about local legislative work from the Standing Committee of the Beijing Municipal People's Congress. Zhao stressed that upholding the Party's overall leadership is the fundamental political guarantee for advancing the work of people's congresses. He said the planning and advancement of people's congress work must align with the overall work of the Party and the country, ensuring full implementation of the CPC Central Committee's decisions and arrangements. Zhao underlined the importance of well-conceived, democratic and law-based legislation, calling for greater efforts to improve the quality of legislation and build a legal system that is sound, comprehensive, unified and authoritative. He also stressed that whole-process people's democracy must be put into practice, ensuring that the people's rights to information, participation, expression and oversight are implemented in all aspects and stages of the work of people's congresses. Zhao Leji, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the National People's Congress (NPC) Standing Committee, visits a humanoid robot innovation center in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 28, 2025. Zhao made an investigation and research tour in Beijing on Sunday. (Xinhua/Huang Jingwen) Zhao Leji, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the National People's Congress (NPC) Standing Committee, talks with legislators and citizens while visiting a liaison office for lawmakers in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 28, 2025. Zhao made an investigation and research tour in Beijing on Sunday. (Xinhua/Huang Jingwen) Zhao Leji, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the National People's Congress (NPC) Standing Committee, learns about local legislative work from the Standing Committee of the Beijing Municipal People's Congress in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 28, 2025. Zhao made an investigation and research tour in Beijing on Sunday. (Xinhua/Huang Jingwen) Left to right: Bardo-Maria Feuring (Owner Feuring Hotelconsulting ), Dana Qadir (Owner Schloss Reinhartshausen), Stefanie Rummel (IHG), Hevar Berzenji (Owner Hotel Schloss Reinhartshausen Operating Company), Miguel Martins (IHG) and Mario Maxeiner (IHG) - Image Credit IHG Hotels & Resorts IHG Hotels & Resorts has announced the signing of Hotel Schloss Reinhartshausen, which will become part of its Vignette Collection in Germany. The property, located in Eltville-Erbach in the Rheingau wine region, is owned by Dana Qadir and will be managed by IHG. This signing follows the recent additions of Bristol Berlin and Alte Post in Reit im Winkl, further expanding IHG's presence in the German market. The Vignette Collection, launched in 2021, aims to attract hotel owners who wish to maintain their properties' unique characteristics while benefiting from IHG's global network. The brand is on track to reach its goal of 100 hotels by 2030, having surpassed the halfway mark within three years. Hotel Schloss Reinhartshausen is situated near Wiesbaden and Mainz, approximately 35 kilometers from Frankfurt International Airport. The location is known for its proximity to the Rheingau Music Festival, which draws over 100,000 visitors annually. The hotel currently features 53 rooms and suites, three dining establishments, nine meeting rooms totaling 380 square meters, and a wellness area. Plans are in place for potential property expansion. The addition of Hotel Schloss Reinhartshausen to the Vignette Collection is part of IHG's strategy to grow its luxury and lifestyle portfolio in Germany, a priority market for the company. IHG currently operates 171 hotels in Germany, with an additional 65 in development across ten brands, including InterContinental, Kimpton, and Hotel Indigo. Stockbridge-Munsee Mohicans and other tribal people will be attending an inaugural powwow at Darrow School. PreviousNext Tribal Members to Host Powwow on Their Homeland NEW LEBANON, N.Y. For the first time in more than 200 years, tribal people will return to their homeland for an inaugural powwow. The traditional Homelands PowWow will bring members of the Stockbridge-Munsee Mohicans from all over the state, from Wisconsin all the way to California, to Darrow School for the weekend of Oct. 4 and 5. The event runs from 10 to 5 both days and tickets are $10 to $20; weekend passes are $15 to $30. Children younger than 5 are free. More information here "This gathering is both a renewal and a prayer, and it's a living bridge between the past, present and the future," said Shawn Stevens, Homelands PowWow chair. Returning to their homeland is a transformative act of reconnection, healing, and spiritual renewal, Homelands PowWow board members said in a recent interview. There is a welcoming vibration that is felt throughout their body when walking on their ancestral homeland, said Ginger Stevens, founding board member. "It's our ancestors, and our land, our home, our mother welcoming us that's why we're so excited to bring so many people out there," she said. For some, it is a returning trip, but for many, the inaugural powwow will be their first experience, Ginger Stevens said. For Wanonah Kosbab, fellow board member, visiting her ancestral homeland was a deeply emotional, healing, and transformative experience filled with tears, laughter, confusion, and a profound sense of change within herself. "I always tell people, you're never going to go home the same out there after your first time going out there," Shawn Stevens said. "There's an energy no matter where you go, whether it's upstate New York, down towards Manhattan Island or the Catskills, it's all the same. The land and the ancestors are very happy were returning and they're supporting what we do." The little things that have led up to the establishment of the inaugural powwow is very spiritually led, he said. Tribal members are retracing their footsteps to the ancestral land that has always carried their songs, dances, and stories. "We come to honor that memory, to reuniting with not only our indigenous neighbors, like the Nipmuc, Oneida, Abenaki, other Lenape, but also forming new relationships with the non-Native people who are currently there," Shawn Stevens said. "Even though the people who are living there today may not know us very well, the land has never forgotten, and we've never forgotten the land either. So, it's making that reconnection, our culture has been there longer than it's been gone. And unfortunately, a lot of people don't know; we're coming to reestablish that connection." The Stockbridge-Munsee Mohicans were displaced from their homelands in the late 18th and 19th century following generations of war, forced conversion, and other abuses. The Oneida welcomed the Mohican Nation to western New York , but due to pressure from settlers, the Mohican sachems relocated to Wisconsin. There, they signed a treaty with the Menominee Nation and the U.S. government in 1856. The last thing the land remembered of its people was the hardship, so for them to be able to return home and have a powwow after hundreds of years is medicine on its own, Kosbab said. The word powwow comes from the word pawwaus, which is an "animate thing or person that makes things well, for healing, for making well, or making good," Shawn Stevens said. And that is what powwows are generally for a gathering, for coming together, celebrating, giving blessings, and socialization, he said. The event is organized by Homelands PowWow, a nonprofit based in Massachusetts, which has a board composed mainly of members from the Stockbridge-Munsee Mohican tribe. Its mission is to support the cultural, spiritual, and communal well-being of the Stockbridge-Munsee Mohican people. Additionally, it aims to promote public education, foster cross-cultural understanding, and encourage respectful engagement through Indigenous teachings and community gatherings. The ancestral land will once again feature dancing and traditional drumming showcasing the native culture and spirit that was ingrained in its soil and bringing to life the history that is unknown to many. In the American school system, much of what is taught about Native American history is lumped together, when in actual fact, it consists of many different cultures and languages, Shawn Stevens said. Many students grow up without learning about the specific tribes that lived in their area, their traditions, or their continued presence today. This lack of education leads to misunderstandings and a lack of awareness about Native American communities, he said. They hope that, with the cultivation of more events, such as this, and the adjustment of curriculum from native elders, will help locals living on the ancestral land understand that the area has a much bigger, deeper, longer history, he said. "Knowledge is power, and everyone agrees, no matter where you fall, on which side of the fence on any kind of debate, knowledge is power. What we're hoping to do is share that knowledge, share our knowledge, and let people know we are still here and can live in harmony," Ginger Stevens said. "There's always a history out there, but the people in this area have been so very welcoming, and they've just greeted us with open arms. And we want to be able to return that sentiment and build upon it, build a relationship between the locals and our tribe and our tribal members." Building this relationship opens lines of communications and helps us grow as individuals and as a group, she said. The event shares a part of their culture and helps people learn the difference between appropriation and appreciation. "Coming and sharing our culture is appreciation. Some people are afraid that it's appropriation. If you showed up wearing feathers in your hair, that's appropriation. If you come and see us and visit with us and learn about our culture, that's appreciation. And we just want everybody to be able to do that," Ginger Stevens said. For the locals who choose to bear witness to the ceremony they will learn not only about the history of the land they dwell but also that of the native culture. The powwow will feature intertribal dancing and traditional drum groups native artisans and vendors, indigenous food, cultural demonstrations and storytelling, educational experiences, interactive family-friendly activities, and opportunities for community connection. CONAKRY, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- Guinea's presidential election has been scheduled for Dec. 28 this year, according to a decree issued by the president and announced on national television Saturday evening. The announcement came shortly after the promulgation of a new electoral code designed to regulate the management of political elections. The long-awaited vote is expected to mark the end of the transition period that began with the September 2021 coup, which brought Colonel Mamady Doumbouya to power following the ousting of President Alpha Conde. Last week, the West African country held a constitutional referendum, which was seen as a key step toward restoring constitutional order. According to final results validated by the Supreme Court, the "yes" camp won 89.38 percent of the vote, compared with 10.62 percent for "no." The new Constitution, which replaced the "Transition Charter," lifted the ban on junta members running for office, a provision in the previous charter, clearing the way for a possible candidacy by Doumbouya, the 40-year-old incumbent president. Sign up to the Independent Climate email for the latest advice on saving the planet Get our free Climate email Get our free Climate email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Vietnam was lashed by fierce winds and torrential rain on Monday as Typhoon Bualoi barrelled into the countrys central coast, killing at least eight people, forcing mass evacuations, shutting airports and leaving hundreds of thousands without power. At least 17 people, mostly fishermen, were missing after huge waves hit two fishing boats off Quang Tri province. Another fishing boat lost contact during the storm, the government's disaster management agency said. The storm had killed at least 20 people in the Philippines before lashing northern Vietnam with flash floods and landslides. Bualoi, the second major cyclone to strike Asia in a week after Super Typhoon Ragasa, made landfall in Ha Tinh province in the early hours, bringing winds of up to 133kmph and waves as high as eight metres, the national weather agency said. Forecasters warned that while the typhoon would weaken as it pushed inland over Ha Tinh and neighbouring Nghe An, the slow-moving system risked prolonging heavy rainfall across mountainous areas. Authorities in Vietnam moved quickly to prepare. State media reported that the coastal city of Da Nang had relocated more than 210,000 people, while the neighbouring city of Hue evacuated 32,000 residents from low-lying zones. Fishing boats were ordered back to shore across central and northern provinces, and the Civil Aviation Authority suspended operations at four airports, including Danang International. By Monday, more than 347,000 families had lost power, local outlets said, as gusts ripped corrugated iron from rooftops and toppled concrete pillars. "I stayed awake the whole night fearing the door would be pulled off by strong winds," Ho Van Quynh from Nghe An province told Reuters. His neighbours said they spent the night trying to protect their homes as the power to their apartment building went out. "I've witnessed many storms, and this is one of the strongest," said Nguyen Tuan Vinh, 45. In Hue, streets were left submerged, a teenager was electrocuted during the downpour, and at least one person was reported missing after being swept away in floodwaters. In Quang Tri province, one fishing boat sank and another ran aground while seeking shelter. Nine crew members were rescued and efforts were underway to reach two others still stranded at sea. Photographs from the region showed people hauling fishing boats away from beaches and streets littered with broken trees as families waded through knee-deep water. A woman removes a broken tree in the aftermath of Bualoi in Quang Tri, Vietnam ( AP ) Authorities warned that Bualoi could linger over central Vietnam for days, raising the likelihood of severe flooding. The storm is likely to move slowly, bringing longer periods of wind and rain and raising risks of damage and landslides, Dr Hoang Phuc Lam of the National Center for Hydro-Meteorological Forecasting said. Forecasts said there could be more downpours through 1 October. The impact follows Bualois destructive passage through the Philippines late last week. At least 20 people were killed there, mostly from drownings and falling trees, officials said. The typhoon knocked out power in several towns and cities and forced 23,000 families into evacuation centres. The back-to-back storms of Ragasa and Bualoi have underscored the vulnerability of coastal Asia to increasingly severe cyclones. Scientists warn that climate change is fuelling stronger, wetter storms by warming the oceans, which in turn drives more intense winds and rainfall. In Vietnam, where typhoons regularly batter central provinces, authorities have stepped up disaster drills, but the scale of this weeks evacuations highlights the continuing risks to infrastructure and communities. Bualoi has already compounded disruption across the region. In China, where Ragasa forced millions from their homes days earlier, supply chains are still recovering from factory shutdowns and shipping delays. Analysts say the latest typhoon will further strain food and fuel logistics in Southeast Asia. By Monday afternoon, Bualois winds had eased to around 117kmph as the system tracked northwest, but forecasters stressed that the danger was far from over. The storms slow pace could prolong rainfall across northern Vietnam, with rivers already swollen and the ground saturated. As the clean-up began in areas hit first, Vietnams government warned residents in flood-prone districts to remain on alert. In Ha Tinh, where Bualoi first made landfall, families secured belongings in upper floors of their homes as water levels rose, while volunteers and soldiers worked to reinforce riverbanks and clear fallen debris. The storms arrival marks one of the fiercest typhoon weeks in recent memory for Asia, leaving trails of destruction from the Philippines to Taiwan, southern China and now Vietnam. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice George Galloway was detained at Gatwick Airport under the Terrorism Act, his party has said. The 71-year-old was stopped by the Metropolitan Polices Counter Terrorism Command at London Gatwick Airport on Saturday (27 September). The former MP was accompanied by his wife having returned on a flight from Abu Dhabi after initially travelling to Moscow, according to the Herald Scotland. We can confirm that on Saturday, 27 September counter terrorism officers at Gatwick Airport stopped a man in his 70s and a woman in her 40s under Schedule 3 of the Counter Terrorism and Border Security Act 2019, a spokesperson for the Met Police told the Herald. Neither of them were arrested and they were allowed on their way. open image in gallery George Galloway was detained after returning from a trip to Moscow ( PA Wire ) The Workers Party of Britain confirmed Galloway had been detained. In a statement on X, the party said: At 11am we were informed by police officers in Gatwick that our party leader George Galloway and his wife have been detained at the airport @sussex_police @BTP. According to the Investigatory Powers Commissioners Office (IPCO): "Schedule 3 to the Counter-Terrorism and Border Security Act 2019 gives police the power to stop, question, search, and detain a person at a UK port to determine whether they are involved in hostile activity. The powers also allow an examining officer to retain, copy, use and destroy an article which is found during a search. The Investigatory Powers Commissioner (IPC) may authorise retention and use of an article found during a search. This includes authorising retention and use of a copy of an article that consists of or includes confidential material. The IPC can also authorise destruction of any such articles. The IPC also reviews and reports on the operation of the Schedule. Galloway is currently the leader of the Workers Party of Britain, which he founded in 2019 having been the former leader of the now-defunct Respect Party. He has served as a Member of Parliament across five constituencies, first winning as a Labour candidate for Glasgow Hillhead in 1987. He later represented Kelvin, Bethnal Green, Bradford West and Rochdale. Having won his seat in Rochdale in February 2024, he lost it shortly after in July 2024 following a general election. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A 13-year-old schoolboy has been arrested and bailed after four people were hit by a Land Rover in separate incidents in Lincolnshire. Lincolnshire Police said the teenager was arrested on suspicion of causing serious injury by dangerous driving, driving whilst unfit through drugs, driving a motor vehicle otherwise than in accordance with a licence, using a vehicle on a road without third party insurance, and aggravated vehicle taking. The incidents, believed to be linked, took place between 6.44am and 10.04am on Friday across the town and villages of Boston, Maltby Le Marsh, Alford and Calceby. A male cyclist was thrown off his bicycle in the first collision, which took place on Priory Road in Boston. The man was seriously injured and admitted to hospital. Police say a second man was knocked off his bicycle by the same vehicle, which did not stop, at 8.20am in Maltby Le Marsh in Alford. open image in gallery A 13-year-old boy was bailed as police appealed for more information ( PA Archive ) At 8.40am on West Street in Alford, police received reports of an elderly man who had been knocked down by a vehicle that did not stop. Again, at 10.04am, police received yet another report after a third cyclist was thrown off his pushbike by a vehicle that did not stop on Bluestone Health Road, Calceby, Alford. The 13-year-old boy was arrested shortly after the fourth incident at 10.23am in the area of Hainton Road, Louth. A black Range Rover is reported to have been involved in the incidents. Police have appealed for dashcam footage and eyewitness statements to assist with their investigation. Investigating Officer Sgt Billy Spence, said on Saturday: I appreciate this is an unusual and, most likely, a worrying set of incidents for people who may been in the area at the time, and we are of course sending our best wishes and thoughts to those injured for a quick and full recovery. We have a young man in custody who is helping us with our enquiries, and we are keeping an open mind about the exact events of today, but we believe these incidents are linked. We do need the help of the public in order to make sure we have as much information and evidence as possible in order to carry out a thorough enquiry. If you have any dashcam footage, CCTV, witnesses, or any other information that could help and havent already spoken to us we would appreciate you getting in touch. I would also ask that the wider public do not speculate about what has happened here today and allow us to carry out our enquiries as fairly and freely as possible. On Sunday, police said the boy had been released on bail, but continued to appeal for information in connection with the incidents. Sign up to our free Brexit newsletter for our analysis of the continuing impact of Brexit on the UK Sign up to our free newsletter for the latest analysis on Brexit's impact Sign up to our free newsletter for the latest analysis on Brexit's impact Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Members of the House of Lords are set to ignore warnings and push to attempt to kill off Kim Leadbeaters assisted dying bill. Peers opposed to the controversial legislation which narrowly passed in the Commons have been emboldened by a new poll which suggests that 70 per cent think they have the right to vote it down. The move comes despite the Bills sponsor in the Lords, Labour peer Lord Falconer, warning it would be wrong for the unelected upper chamber to overrule the will of the democratically elected chamber. In an interview with the BBC, Lord Falconer was asked whether the role of the Lords was to "ultimately uphold something that the directly elected members of the Commons have decided to go ahead with". He replied "That's correct". open image in gallery Kim Leadbeater introduced the assisted dying Bill to the House of Commons (Jonathan Brady/PA) ( PA Wire ) But the poll of 2,071 British adults by Whitestone Insight found that 70 per cent of those who take an opinion believe that peers have every right to vote against non-government legislation if they consider that it poses a significant risk to vulnerable lives. Just one in five, or 20 per cent, believe that peers should not vote down legislation introduced as a Private Members' Bill even if they think it could cause harm to the vulnerable. 45 per cent of all those surveyed believe they should feel at liberty to reject it. The survey appears to go against previous polling which suggested a majority of the public are in favour of assisted dying. Baroness Grey-Thompson, the former Paralympian who is now a leading disability campaigner, said: "Despite attempts to suggest otherwise, it seems the public are aware and support the ability of the Lords to reject this Bill should we think it necessary. The Bill is not a Government Bill and did not appear in any manifesto at the last election, so the Salisbury Convention does not apply. The most vulnerable in our society are entitled to our unwavering protection and the best quality care - something not provided by this Bill. If this is not possible within the confines of the Bill, we will not hesitate to say so". Meanwhile, former minister for the disabled, Tory peer Lord Harper added: "It is striking that, of those who take a position, the majority of people would support the House of Lords rejecting the assisted suicide Bill should it become necessary. The constitutional duty of the House in scrutinising this poorly drafted Bill is perfectly clear. open image in gallery Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson outside the Houses of Parliament (PA) ( PA Archive ) If it cannot be improved sufficiently, it is our responsibility to ensure it does not become law. This is not a manifesto Government Bill, and we should not treat it as such. It comes a row wages over whether Lords should reject the measure, given the House of Commons supported it. Members of the House of Lords, under the Salisbury Convention, do not typically vote against Government legislation that was part of a manifesto commitment on which the government was elected. However, the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill is a Private Members Bill, so therefore peers are, as a matter of constitutional principle, entitled to reject or heavily amend the legislation. The Bills sponsor in the House of Lords, Lord Falconer, however, claimed in an interview with the BBC that the House of Lords has a duty to uphold legislation approved by the House of Commons. Despite that claim, Lord Falconer has on at least six prior occasions either voted against or heavily amended legislation approved by the House of Commons. Nikki da Costa, former Downing Street Director of Legislative Affairs, has challenged Falconer's position in The Spectator by insisting that both the House of Commons and the House of Lords play an equal role in the passing of legislation, except when it comes to matters of financial privilege. If the Bill is voted down it will return to the Commons who can then vote to ask peers to think again. The Independent has approached Ms Leadbeater for comment. Sign up to our free Brexit newsletter for our analysis of the continuing impact of Brexit on the UK Sign up to our free newsletter for the latest analysis on Brexit's impact Sign up to our free newsletter for the latest analysis on Brexit's impact Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Ministers have stepped in to provide an emergency bailout to Jaguar Land Rover after the motor manufacturer was left reeling by a massive cyber attack. Chancellor Rachel Reeves has announced that she will provide the motor giant a 1.5bn loan guarantee to give it time to recover from the attack and protect the companies in its supply chain which have also been hit hard. The move comes as Labour opens its conference in Liverpool with Keir Starmer and his government under pressure to show they can govern effectively. Ms Reeves said: Jaguar Land Rover is an iconic British company which employs tens of thousands of people a jewel in the crown of our economy. open image in gallery Chancellor Rachel Reeves ( PA Wire ) Today we are protecting thousands of those jobs with up to 1.5bn in additional private finance, helping them support their supply chain and protect a vital part of the British car industry. The announcement follows business secretary Peter Kyles visit to JLR and supply chain firm Webasto this week. The decisive action builds on the governments commitment to the UK auto sector through the modern industrial strategy to boost growth and good jobs. JLR was struck by hackers last month, forcing a halt to production and threatening the future of its supply chain. It later emerged that the company was not insured for cyber attacks, leaving it struggling to get back on its feet. The loan from a commercial bank, backed by the Export Development Guarantee (EDG) provided by export credit agency UK Export Finance, will be paid back over five years and bolster JLRs cash reserves so it can support its supply chain which has been greatly impacted by the shutdown. Mr Kyle said: This cyber attack was not only an assault on an iconic British brand, but on our world-leading automotive sector and the men and women whose livelihoods depend on it. open image in gallery Mayor of the West Midlands Richard Parker during a visit to Jaguar Land Rover supplier Webasto ( PA Wire ) Following our decisive action, this loan guarantee will help support the supply chain and protect skilled jobs in the West Midlands, Merseyside and throughout the UK. The government also recently gave Ford motor company in the UK a 1bn loan guarantee to help deal with the effect of Donald Trumps tariffs. Mr Kyle said: Were backing our automotive sector for the long-term through our modern industrial strategy and the landmark trade deals weve signed to boost exports. With plants in Solihull and Wolverhampton in the West Midlands, plus Halewood in Merseyside, JLR is one of the UKs largest exporters, employing 34,000 directly in its UK operations. It also operates the largest supply chain in the UK automotive sector, much of it made up of small and medium-sized enterprises, and employing around 120,000 people. West Midlands mayor Richard Parker said: This support is vital to the West Midlands it will keep people in work, protect the smaller firms that rely on JLR and give our region the stability it needs while production is paused. Ill keep working hard with ministers and industry to safeguard jobs and make sure our world-class automotive sector comes through this stronger. The support follows several significant actions by government in recent months to back the UKs automotive sector, including securing landmark trade deals with India and the US to turbocharge export opportunities for UK companies by slashing tariffs. The government also launched an electric car grant to support the transition to zero-emission vehicles and incentivise sustainable manufacturing, and slashed industrial electricity costs for thousands of companies through the British Industrial Competitiveness Scheme, as part of the modern industrial strategy. The strategy also committed 2bn capital and research and development (R&D) funding for the auto sector to 2030, and an additional 500m to extend the R&D support for the industry to 2035. Sign up to our free Brexit newsletter for our analysis of the continuing impact of Brexit on the UK Sign up to our free newsletter for the latest analysis on Brexit's impact Sign up to our free newsletter for the latest analysis on Brexit's impact Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Sir Keir Starmer arrives in Liverpool this weekend, 16 months after winning a landslide victory, with his future as prime minister already seriously in doubt. It appears that the darling of the conference will be Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham, who is nakedly flirting with the idea of a parliamentary comeback to replace Sir Keir. Labour MPs are talking about ousting Sir Keir if the local and devolved elections in May dont go well. But Nigel Farage is continuing to attract Labour voters in previously safe parts of the country with Reform enjoying a poll lead of around 10 per cent. open image in gallery The Labour leader my need to put on a brave smile this weekend ( PA ) Indeed, a poll this week suggested Reform would be close to winning a majority while Labour would lose 300 seats in a general election. Little else appears to be going right. Illegal immigration is at its highest levels yet. The economy is flatlining. His chief of staff and key figure in his government, Morgan McSweeney, has been the subject of speculation about historic donations. And his choice for deputy leader (education secretary Bridget Phillipson) looks set to be thrashed in the deputy leadership race by Lucy Powell, who he sacked in the recent reshuffle. This week in Liverpool does not only need to go well for the PM, he needs it to be the springboard for a fightback to ensure his very survival in Downing Street. Here are five things Sir Keir must do this week: 1. Prove he is the best person for the job open image in gallery Andy Burnham has suggested MPs have contacted him about the leadership ( PA ) Also known as deal with the Andy Burnham problem. But it could also refer to the other potential pretenders including health secretary Wes Streeting (on the right of the party) and a possible comeback by his now former deputy prime minister Angela Rayner (on the left) after she was forced to quit over her tax affairs. The problem is that people in Labour, especially MPs terrified of losing their seats, are looking at these three thinking they all have more charisma and a much clearer idea of what they stand for. In essence, they are seen as leaders while the PM is not. However, Sir Keir is seen as a leader is on the international stage. Among people as diverse as Mark Carney, Donald Trump and Ursula von der Leyen, he is seen as a pivotal figure, someone to go to and get things done. Unfortunately his domestic perception is the reverse of that, especially after disastrous welfare votes in parliament and a series of other U-turns. Sir Keir now needs to show that he is a leader at home as well as abroad. 2. Explain the big idea When the PM went to America earlier this year, he tried to explain Starmerism to the pack of journalists accompanying him. Unfortunately, it was not very rousing. This is very Starmerite, he said of the spending review in June. The first job is always to clear out, clear up, and then move on from there. open image in gallery Starmer needs big ideas to counter Reform and the left-wing of his own party ( AFP/Getty ) Another phrase he likes to use is fixing the foundations. But none of this really provides a vision with an end point for him to point at and get others to follow. In his conference speech this week, Sir Keir needs to offer something more appealing. If the big idea turns out to be digital ID cards which he announced earlier this week, it is not going to work. With more than 1.5 million people signing a petition against it and strong support and opposition within his own party, the proposal is likely to divide not unite. 3. Bring a warring party together This issue of uniting the party may prove to be beyond the possible. It certainly has the elements of complexity of a five-dimensional Rubiks cube. But that does not mean he should not try. Somehow Sir Keir needs to satisfy the left (where the main threat is coming from) that he is not just a front for the Blairite faction on the right. open image in gallery Labour MPs want stronger action against Benjamin Netanyahu, who has an ICC arrest warrant against his name ( Reuters ) He will need to articulate policies, not least on wealth taxes to make the unions and others feel they are being listened to. Ending the two-child benefit cap will go a long way to help turn things around. The other issue remains the Middle East and his treatment of Israel. Recognising Palestine as a state is not enough to appease those who believe Israel is committing genocide. Those voices for more action are growing ever louder in Labour. 4. Gain peoples respect In a very short time, the prime minister has lost a lot of respect. It is a pity for a man, who in person, is thoroughly decent and has had a back story growing up from a low income household to a successful lawyer and PM. But the jokes about him saying his father was a toolmaker or the jibes of two tier Keir or never here Keir or nothing to see here Keir are undermining him. open image in gallery Gloria De Piero and Jon Ashworth host the Politics Inside Out podcast ( Politics Inside Out ) Recently, former Labour MPs Gloria De Piero and Jonathan Ashworth, who host the Politics Inside Out podcast, suggested to The Independent that he should go to working mens clubs in the north of England or elsewhere to show his human side. Ms De Piero said: Nigel Farage is always in working mens clubs with a pint in his hand. I actually would like to take Keir to a working mans club for the podcast or just normally to meet people. It's hard, but I think he would do really well. If Keir went in those clubs, they'd be so bloody grateful to see him. And people just want to be listened to. Were not in masochism strategy yet, I'd call it an engagement strategy, but if he got taken around some of those fabulous red wall working mens clubs and pubs, I think he'd enjoy it, and he'd be quite good at it. I think people would see a different side of him that was unfiltered. 5. Fightback against Reform This brings us to the point which will make or break Sir Keir. He needs to take the fight to Nigel Farage and Reform UK who seem on course for massive victories next year and then at the general election. The prime minister made a good start on Friday with his speech lambasting the lies and division of populism and acknowledging that Labour is in a battle for the soul of the country. open image in gallery Could Farage really be the next PM? ( Getty ) He also acknowledged the need for a positive vision for social democratic, progressive politics beyond managerialism (which may have been a self-critique). What he cannot do is out Reform Reform on issues like tackling migration. The prime minister needs to find an authentic appealing message which shows he recognises the problems of mass illegal immigration and the issues with the economy but has Labour solutions for them. In some ways he needs to carry on and develop the theme of Fridays speech. If he succeeds he will certainly be leading his party to the next general election with an eye on a second term. Failure though will only bring a great deal more uncertainty and pressure on his position next year. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A female cartel leader known as La Diabla, who allegedly sold newborn babies to U.S. couples for up to $13,000, has been arrested in Mexico. Martha Alicia Mendez Aguilar, was picked up in Juarez, Mexico, on September 2, according to the Office of the Director of National Intelligence. Aguilar was the ringleader of a baby trafficking operation that was affiliated with the powerful Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), the department said. The Trump administration has vowed to crack down hard on cartels, even imposing harsh economic sanctions on Mexico to stymie the flow of fentanyl and other illicit products into the U.S. The CJNG has been one of its top targets. The operation run by Aguilar lured pregnant women to remote locations, performed illegal cesarean procedures, harvested the organs from the mothers bodies, and sold the newborns to couples in the U.S. open image in gallery A female cartel leader known as La Diabla who allegedly sold newborn babies to U.S. couples for up to $13,000 has been arrested in Mexico. Martha Alicia Mendez Aguilar, was picked up in Juarez, Mexico, on September 2 ( National Counterterrorism Center ) Newborns would be sold for up to 250,000 pesos, the equivalent of around $13,600. The arrest of Aguilar, whose nickname means the female Devil in Spanish, followed a joint operation by the National Counterterrorism Center and Mexican law enforcement. This is one example of what terrorist cartels will do to diversify their revenue streams and finance operations, said Joe Kent, NCTC Director. NCTC delivered critical intelligence on La Diablas location and developed comprehensive analysis that enabled U.S. and Mexican law enforcement partners to take action. I am proud of our teams ability to work with our forward deployed U.S. partners and Mexican law enforcement to stop these horrific acts. NCTC remains committed to disrupting all aspects of terrorist cartels and their operations. open image in gallery A Quinnipiac poll shows 10 percent of Republicans now disapprove of Trump, a first, though 86 percent still approve of his performance ( Getty Images ) And in this case, the lives of innocent women and children depended on it. The arrest was supported by the U.S. Marshals Service, the U.S. Department of States Diplomatic Security Service, the FBI, and U.S. Customs and Border Protection. It was carried out by Mexican law enforcement partners and Fiscalia Especializada en la Mujer (the Special Prosecutors Office for Women). U.S. Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard praised the arrest on X, writing: Exceptional work by our team at @ODNIgov National Counterterrorism Center who are working hard every day with our US interagency partners, law enforcement, and Mexican law enforcement to defeat cartels and keep the American people safe, secure and free. Commentary: At pivotal moment, China injects momentum into global climate governance Xinhua) 13:06, September 28, 2025 BEIJING, Sept. 25 (Xinhua) -- The 10th anniversary of the Paris Agreement comes at a pivotal moment for global climate governance. As the world faces mounting climate challenges and faltering commitments from some major economies, China has stepped forward with fresh pledges and concrete acts that bolster confidence, build consensus and inject new momentum into multilateral action. In video remarks to the United Nations Climate Summit held in New York on Wednesday local time, Chinese President Xi Jinping called for shoring up confidence, living up to responsibilities, and strengthening cooperation. China, as a key driver and active practitioner of the Paris Agreement, has remained steadfast in its conviction and resolute in its actions on climate governance. In his video remarks, Xi announced China's new Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) as follows: China will, by 2035, reduce economy-wide net greenhouse gas emissions by 7 percent to 10 percent from peak levels, striving to do better; increase the share of non-fossil fuels in total energy consumption to over 30 percent; expand the installed capacity of wind and solar power to over six times the 2020 levels, striving to bring the total to 3,600 gigawatts; scale up the total forest stock volume to over 24 billion cubic meters; make new energy vehicles the mainstream in the sales of new vehicles; expand the National Carbon Emissions Trading Market to cover major high-emission sectors; and basically establish a climate adaptive society. These targets not only align with the requirements of the Paris Agreement but also embody China's utmost efforts, highlighting China's contribution to global green transition. Over the past decade, China has been promoting cooperation on tackling climate change among Global South countries. With the world's largest and most complete new-energy industrial chain, China is home to 70 percent of photovoltaic components and 60 percent of wind power equipment worldwide, bringing down the global costs of wind and solar power generation by more than 60 percent and 80 percent, respectively. As of September 2025, China has signed 54 climate-related South-South cooperation agreements with 42 developing countries and hosted over 300 capacity-building workshops. China has also provided and mobilized a total of 177 billion yuan (about 24.8 billion U.S. dollars) in project funds since 2016 to support developing countries in addressing climate change. Behind China's new pledges and actions lies a broader vision: building a community with a shared future for humanity. China has always closely linked its own development with that of the whole world and has been making active efforts to promote global sustainable development. Committed to upholding the United Nations (UN) climate framework, China repeatedly calls for respect for the right to development of developing countries and urges developed countries to honor their obligations and provide more funding and technology for global green transition. This approach seeks not only to narrow the North-South gap but also foster a fairer and more cooperative global climate governance system. The path to addressing climate change remains long and arduous, but China is proving that commitment matched with action can chart a way forward. By honoring its word and working together with all of its partners, China is helping to safeguard our planet and shape a greener, more sustainable future. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) The 20th UNESCO Confucius Prize for Literacy was awarded in Qufu, China. The prize highlights China's role in promoting global literacy and education, honoring innovative projects that advance equal learning opportunities worldwide. Produced by Xinhua Global Service The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Approximately 58 million pounds of Hillshire Brands' corn dogs and sausage-on-a-stick products have been recalled after customers reported being injured by wood splinters. Customers said the splinters were embedded in the batter surrounding the sausages, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service. The recall covers more than 25 products using the batter-covered hot dogs and sausages. The products are carried at most major grocery stores, and are sold by brands including Jimmy Dean and State Fair. The recalled items were sold to various retailers as well as school districts and the U.S. Department of War. According to the recall notice, Hillshire Brands Company discovered the wood splinters after it received multiple customer complaints. Five people reported being injured by the splinters. The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced a recall of approximately 58 million pounds of corn dogs and sausage-on-a-stick products produced by Hillshire Brands after customers reported wood splinters in the batter. Five customers reportedly were injured by the contaminated products ( U.S. Department of Agriculture ) The products listed in the recall were packaged between March 17 and September 26, 2025. "FSIS is concerned that some products may be in consumers refrigerators and freezers, along with school and institution refrigerators and freezers," the recall posting stated. "Consumers, schools, and institutions who have purchased these products are urged not to consume them." Products included in the recall should be thrown away or returned to the store where they were originally purchased, the announcement said. The full list of recalled products can be found here. All of the products with an establishment number of "EST-582" or "P-894" are included in the recall. The FSIS said it will post a full list of distributors who sold the products on its website once that information is available. Anyone with questions is advised to contact Christina Self, the Hillshire Brands Company's Associate Director of Customer Care, at 888-747-7611. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice President Donald Trump said Saturday that he will send troops to Portland, authorizing Full Force, if necessary to handle domestic terrorists as he expands his deployments to more American cities. He made the announcement on social media, writing that he was directing the Department of Defense to provide all necessary Troops to protect War ravaged Portland. Trump said the decision was necessary to protect U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement facilities, which he alleged is under siege from attack by Antifa, and other domestic terrorists. The White House did not immediately respond to a request for details on Trumps announcement, such as a timeline for the deployment or what troops would be involved. Portland's mayor, Democrat Keith Wilson, said there was no need for troops in his city. Our nation has a long memory of acts of oppression, and the president will not find lawlessness or violence here unless he plans to perpetrate it, he said. Residents ask, Wheres the emergency?' Early Saturday, there was no sign of any federal presence in the citys downtown, where people jogged along the Willamette River, relaxed by a riverside fountain or rode bikes on a sunny fall day. Wheres the emergency? asked resident Allen Schmertzler, 72, who said he was disgusted by the presidents decision. Another resident, John McNeur, 74, called Trump's statement ridiculous. He pointed out that he was taking a leisurely stroll along the river on a peaceful, sunny day. This place is not a city thats out of control, he said. Its just a beautiful place. Trump has also named Chicago and Memphis Trump previously threatened to send the National Guard into Chicago but has yet to follow through. A deployment in Memphis, Tennessee, is expected soon and will include only about 150 troops, far less than were sent to the District of Columbia for Trumps crackdown on crime or in Los Angeles in response to immigration protests that turned violent with the troops arrival. Trump also sent Marines to Los Angeles. In Memphis, about 80 to 100 people marched to a plaza in front of City Hall to protest the expected arrival next week of the guard and more than a dozen federal law enforcement agencies, ranging from immigration to drug enforcement. Protesters held signs with messages such as Resources Not Task Forces and Memphis dont need no occupation, Memphis dont need no government control a play on the Pink Floyd song Another Brick in the Wall. Speakers at a news conference beforehand said that instead of federal troops and law enforcement agents, the city needs more funding for education, crime prevention, youth services and hospitals. Few details from the Pentagon Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell said the Department of Defense would provide information and updates when available. We stand ready to mobilize U.S. military personnel in support of DHS operations in Portland at the Presidents direction," Parnell said. But Gov. Tina Kotek, a Democrat, said there is no national security threat in Portland. "Our communities are safe and calm, Kotek said. A spokesperson for the Oregon National Guard, Lt. Col. Stephen Bomar, said in an email that no official requests have been received at this time for Guard support. Any requests would need to be coordinated through the Governors office, he added. Long-running protests Portland, population 636,000, was also the site of long-running and sometimes violent racial justice protests following George Floyds murder by Minneapolis police in 2020. The Trump administration sent hundreds of agents, including from the U.S. Border Patrol, for the stated purpose of protecting the federal courthouse and other federal property from vandalism. Recent protests have been far more muted and focused on the area around the ICE building, located outside the citys downtown that was the heart of the 2020 protests. The buildings main entrance and ground-floor windows have been boarded up and tagged with graffiti. Earlier this month, the city said it would issue a land use violation notice to the citys U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement building because it had been used to detain people overnight or for more than 12 hours violations of its conditional land use approval. Portland is one of a number of so-called sanctuary cities. There is no strict definition for sanctuary cities, but the term generally describes places that limit cooperation with Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Early Saturday, all was quiet outside that building, with no signs of protesters or law enforcement. Some federal agents have been injured and several protesters have been charged with assault. Some demonstrators also say theyve been injured. When protesters erected a prop guillotine earlier this month, the Department of Homeland Security called it unhinged behavior. Portland officials stress the city's recovery Meantime, city groups and officials have sought to highlight the recovery of the downtown area since 2020. This summer was reportedly the busiest for pedestrian traffic since before the coronavirus pandemic, and overall violent crime in Portland from January through June decreased by 17% compared to the same period in 2024, a recent report from the Major Cities Chiefs Association found. The downtown has seen a decrease in homeless encampments that defined the years immediately after the pandemic. Since the Sept. 10 assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, Trump has escalated his efforts to confront what he calls the radical left, which he blames for the countrys problems with political violence. Trump, in comments Thursday in the Oval Office, suggested some kind of operation was in the works. Were going to get out there and were going to do a pretty big number on those people in Portland, he said, describing them as professional agitators and anarchists. - Megerian reported from Washington. Associated Press writers Konstantin Toropin in Washington, Adrian Sainz in Memphis, Tennessee, and Steve Karnowski in Minneapolis contributed. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Four people are confirmed dead and more remain missing after devastating flash floods hit Arizona. A state of emergency was declared in the city of Globe, around 90 miles east of Phoenix, and officials said their primary objective was search and rescue in the waterways following severe rain on Friday that continued into the weekend. Officials are particularly concerned with hundreds of propane tanks, which may have been washed downstream, causing a major hazmat issue. Carl Melford, emergency manager in Gila County told KPHO that two of the deceased were found in a vehicle, and another in the floodwaters, though were not immediately identified by authorities. A fourth was found Saturday morning by Scottsdale Fire Department near to a vehicle caught in floodwaters in suburban Phoenix. Officers said the vehicle had appeared empty after it was spotted Friday evening submerged in eight feet of water. open image in gallery Three people are dead and many more remain missing after devastating flash floods hit Globe, Arizona ( AZFamily ) However, after water levels dropped overnight crews found a person pinned underneath a walkway bridge, the department told CBS. Historic Downtown Globe is currently unsafe, with compromised buildings as well as hazardous chemicals and debris, including propane tanks. For your safety, please stay out of the area until further notice, a post from the city read Saturday. We do not need additional people in the flood zone. Extra traffic puts lives at risk and makes it harder for first responders to do their jobs. We understand the deep desire to help right now, our community always steps up. But the best way to help at this time is to have patience and allow trained professionals the space to do what is needed. Carl Melford, the emergency manager at Gila County Division of Emergency Management, asked community members to help each other out, but also urged caution. For those that are able to check on your neighbors, help out your neighbors, he said, per KTVK, though added: If volunteers self-deploy into these flooded areas, it could throw off the cadaver dogs. It could cause more issues. So we know that people would love to help, but theres, theres other ways to help, such as, you know, helping out with providing drinks or food for the shelters or anything else like that, could be a tremendous help. open image in gallery A state of emergency was declared in the city of Globe, around 90 miles east of Phoenix, and officials said their primary objective was search and rescue in the waterways following severe rain on Friday that continued into the weekend ( AZFamily ) Parts of the town and nearby roads including Highway 60 have been re-opened, though others including Broad Street remain closed to the public until all hazards have been cleared. Red Cross shelters have been opened at High Desert and Lee Kornegay. Globes Mayor, Al Gameros, thanked emergency crews for their diligent and ongoing work. Gameros said that the city had been in touch with Arizona Governor Katie Hobb's Office, as well as Senator Mark Kelly and Congressman Eli Crane. I urge everyone to be patient with the process as we continue operations. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice The man accused of killing four people and burning down a Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints church in Grand Blanc, Michigan on Sunday reportedly held a long-simmering hatred for the faith and was struggling with substance abuse, according to people close to him. Two friends of Thomas Jacob Sanford, the 40-year-old gunman who was shot and killed by police in the church's parking lot, told the New York Times that Sanford's hatred grew out of a breakup he had with a girlfriend more than 10 years prior. According to the friends, Sanford would rant about the LDS church even at his best friend's wedding and called the faith the Antichrist. He reportedly even took the chance to complain about the church to a politician canvassing homes in his neighborhood. On the day of the mass shooting, Sanford crashed his Chevy Silverado pickup truck into the church, and then proceeded to open fire with an assault rifle on the congregants inside. At some point during the attack, Sanford used an accelerant to start a fire that would ultimately consume the majority of the church. Sanford eventually exited the church, where he began shooting at fleeing churchgoers. He fired through the windshield of at least once vehicle, narrowly missing the driver. open image in gallery Thomas Jacob Sanford, who killed four people and injured eight others in a mass shooting at a Grand Blanc, Michigan, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Friends said Sanford hated the LDS church after a relationship he had with a Mormon woman fell apart ( Facebook ) Police received a call that a shooting was underway at 10:25am, and within 30 seconds a Grand Blanc Township Police Officer and an armed officer from the state's Department of Natural Resources responded to the scene. A gunfight ensued but the officers ultimately killed Sanford. Four people died, and at least one of the eight wounded was a child as young as 6. Peter Tersigni told the Times that he knew Sanford for practically his entire life, and described him as his best friend. He said Sanford was a class clown, but deployment to Iraq with the Marines changed him and tuned him into a more serious person upon his return. It wasn't just the military that changed Sanford. According to Tersigni, a move to Utah and a habit of abusing methamphetamines further transformed his friend. During his stay in Utah, Sanford reportedly fell in love with a woman who was part of the LDS. It's unclear exactly how involved he and the woman were, but what Tersigni did say is that the relationship ended in a way that left Sanford deeply hurt. Mentally [Sanford] was in rough shape," he told the paper. He said it became very clear to anyone who would listen that Sanford had a problem with the LDS Church. open image in gallery The charred remains of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc Township, Michigan. Sanford set the building on fire, police said ( AP ) He got this whole fascination with Mormons, and they are the Antichrist, and they are going to take over the world, Francis Tersigni, Peter's twin brother and another friend of Sanford's, told the Times. Sanford was so obsessed with the church that the subject even came up at Peter's wedding. All he could talk about was Mormons, Francis said. I was like, dude, nobody wants to hear about this stuff. Sanford's landlord in Utah, Sandra Winter, also confirmed to the paper that he had been in a relationship with an "extremely religious" LDS member. She said he felt pressured to join the church. He wasnt so sure that he wanted to become a member of the church, Winter said. But he really wanted to be with this woman. Despite the incident being more than a decade in the past, Sanford was still ranting about LDS members even just a few days before his attack. Kris Johns who is running for City Council in Burton was out canvassing homes and told the Times he met Sanford. open image in gallery An FBI Evidence Response Team agent inspects the suspect's truck outside the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc, Michigan ( AFP/Getty ) Within a few minutes, Sanford was telling him about how "Mormons are the Antichrist." The FBI is still investigating the shooting, and considers the incident a "targeted act of violence." White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said during a press briefing that Sanford was someone who "hated people of the Mormon faith. While it does appear that Sanford was a supporter of President Donald Trump a Trump political sign was found on his fence, he was reportedly photographed wearing a conservative t-shirt, and friends have told the press he held right-wing beliefs no evidence has been revealed thus far to suggest his motive was political. Francis insisted the shooting "isn't a MAGA event" and said the attack "isn't political." Investigators are still investigating what set Sanford off. Peter told the Times that he last talked to Sanford on September 18. Sanford reportedly asked Peter to help him build a deck, 10 days before Sanford attacked the church. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Kash Patel has walked back false claims by his boss Donald Trump that undercover FBI agents may have caused the January 6 insurrection at the Capitol, stating instead that agents were sent on a crowd control mission. The FBI Director stopped short of agreeing with the president that the agents present on the day had been the agitators, but agreed that sending them into the mob was a breach of Bureau protocol. It comes after Trump posted a trademark rant on Truth Social in which he claimed former FBI Director Christopher Wray had lied multiple times to Congress and had some major explaining to do. Thats right, as it now turns out, FBI Agents were at, and in, the January 6th Protest, probably acting as Agitators and Insurrectionists, but certainly not as Law Enforcement Officials, the president fumed. open image in gallery Kash Patel has walked back claims by his boss Donald Trump that undercover FBI agents may have caused the January 6 insurrection at the Capitol ( Brent Stirton/Getty Images ) Speaking to Fox News Digital, Patel clarified that: "Agents were sent into a crowd control mission after the riot was declared by Metro Police something that goes against FBI standards. "This was the failure of a corrupt leadership that lied to Congress and to the American people about what really happened." Patel added: "Thanks to agents coming forward, we are now uncovering the truth. We are fully committed to transparency, and justice and accountability continues with this FBI." Right-wing media reported Friday that FBI agents were involved in the riot, perhaps prompting the president's remarks online. I want to know who each and every one of these so-called Agents are, and what they were up to on that now Historic Day, Trump continued in his post. Many Great American Patriots were made to pay a very big price only for the love of their Country. I owe this investigation of Dirty Cops and Crooked Politicians to them! open image in gallery The FBI Director stopped short of agreeing with the president that the undercover FBI agents had been the agitators, he agreed that sending them into the mob was a breach of Bureau protocol ( Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved ) An FBI official acknowledged to Fox News Digital that Wray should have disclosed that agents had been present at the Capitol on the day of the riots, but said there was no indication that any FBI agents were involved in the way the president had claimed. In addition, last year the Department of Justice confirmed that the FBI had sent "hundreds" of agents to the Capitol to assist in pushing back against Trump loyalists and to investigate pipe bombs placed outside the national headquarters of both the Democratic and Republican parties. The report also found that 26 FBI confidential informants individuals not employed by the FBI but who have at times provided information were in the crowd. However, almost all of them were there without informing the bureau ahead of time, and none were found to have been instructed to instigate or participate in violence. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Kilmar Abrego Garcia has been moved from a Virginia detention center to a facility in Pennsylvania. Abrego Garcia, 30, became a flashpoint over President Donald Trumps immigration crackdown when he was wrongfully deported to his native El Salvador. The Trump administration claimed he was a member of the MS-13 gang, an allegation that Abrego Garcia denies and for which he wasnt charged. Court records show Immigration and Customs Enforcement notified Abrego Garcia's lawyers Friday that he was transferred to the Moshannon Valley Processing Center in Phillipsburg. It said the location would make it easier for them to access him. Kilmar Abrego Garcia and his wife, Jennifer Vasquez Sura ( Getty ) However, his attorneys raised concerns about conditions at Moshannon, saying there have been recent reports of assaults, inadequate medical care, and insufficient food, according to a federal court filing. The administration returned Abrego Garcia to the U.S. in June, but only to face human smuggling charges. His lawyers have called the case preposterous and vindictive. Trumps immigration court The U.S. is supposed to follow a multi-step process for deporting someone to a nation that isnt their home country, according to immigration attorneys. For example, an immigration officer is supposed to conduct a reasonable fear interview, during which Abrego Garcia can raise concerns about persecution and torture. If the officer disagrees, Abrego Garcia can ask an immigration judge to review the decision. From there, Abrego Garcia can go to the Board of Immigration Appeals. Immigration judges are part of the Justice Department and under the Trump administrations authority. Trump has been firing immigration judges, many appointed by former President Joe Biden, as part of his immigration crackdown. However, Abrego Garcia can contest a Board of Immigration Appeals decision in the federal courts, which are part of the nations independent judiciary. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Marjorie Taylor Greene has come out swinging at the White House over the Trump administrations handling of the Jeffrey Epstein sex trafficking case. The rift between the MAGA firebrand and White House deepened after a Trump official apparently told her that her support of bipartisan legislation ordering the release of the so-called Epstein files would be viewed as a very hostile act. Greene is one of four Republicans, alongside Reps. Thomas Massie, Nancy Mace and Lauren Boebert to have signed on to a discharge petition to force the release of files related to Epstein. If a discharge petition receives the signature of a majority of members, they can force a vote without the consent of leadership. I told them, You didnt get me elected. I do not work for you; I work for my district, the Georgia Republican representative recently told The New York Times. The right-wing representative says she called a top West Wing aide to push back against that threat, telling the Times, We arent supposed to just be whipping on our votes because theyre telling us what to do with this scary threat, or saying, Well primary you, or that we wont get invited to the White House events. Me personally? I dont care, Greene continued, noting when she encounters similar tactics from Trumps team, Im like, [Expletive] you open image in gallery Marjorie Taylor Greene has spoken out about receiving threats from the White House over her support of bipartisan legislation ordering the release of the Epstein files. ( Getty ) That vote is expected as soon as the newest member of Congress, Adelita Grijalva, of Arizona, is sworn in. The vote could come as soon as Monday, Rep. Ro Khanna (D-Calif.) told The Independent Friday. So far, every Democratic member of Congress has signed the petition along with the four Republican representatives, leaving it with 216 votes. House Speaker Mike Johnson called the House into August recess earlier than expected after Democrats continued to try and force amendments to release files related to Epstein through the House Rules Committee. Since then, Democratic Rep. James Walkinshaw won a special election in Virginias 11th district to replace the late Rep. Gerry Connolly and signed the petition immediately. While Democrats have hoped to use the Epstein files to their advantage, conservatives have long held out for major Democratic politicians, such as former President Bill Clinton, to be included on Epsteins so-called list. Trump, who ran for his second term on the promise to release the Epstein files, has since attempted to distance himself from the late financier, with whom he was once close friends. open image in gallery You didnt get me elected. I do not work for you; I work for my district, Greene told the White House. ( Getty ) The Justice Department and FBI caused a firestorm attempting to draw the investigation to a close, releasing a two-page memo saying that no client list existed and Epstein died in prison. Meanwhile, Trump later called the efforts to release the files total bulls***. When many of Epsteins survivors visited Capitol Hill, he called the effort a Democrat hoax that never ends. The Republican-led House committee subpoenaed the Justice Department last month for records related to the criminal cases of Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell, who is serving 20 years in federal prison after she was convicted in 2021 for her role in a scheme to sexually exploit and abuse minors with Epstein. On Friday, Democrats on the House Oversight Committee released a trove of documents provided by Epsteins estate that included meeting schedules that showed appointments between Epstein and figures such Trump consigliere Steve Bannon, Prince Andrew and venture capitalist Peter Thiel. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice The Taliban freed a American citizen from an Afghan prison on Sunday, weeks after saying they had reached an agreement with US envoys on a prisoner exchange as part of an effort to normalize relations. The deputy spokesperson for the Taliban foreign ministry, Zia Ahmad Takal, identified the man as Amir Amiri. He did not say when Amiri was detained, why, or where. An official with knowledge of the release said Amiri had been detained in Afghanistan since December 2024 and was on his way back to the US. The official spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss the details with the media. Qatar facilitated Amiri's release in the latest diplomatic achievement resulting from its security partnership with the US that has secured the freedom of four other Americans from Taliban detention this year. Qatar, an energy-rich nation on the Arabian Peninsula, also helped in releasing a British couple who were imprisoned for months. US secretary of state Marco Rubio welcomed Amiri's release, saying it marked the administrations determination, reinforced by the presidents recent executive order, to protect American nationals from wrongful detention abroad. While this marks an important step forward, additional Americans remain unjustly detained in Afghanistan. President Trump will not rest until all our captive citizens are back home. Ahmad Habibi, the brother of Mahmood Habibi, a US citizen held by the Taliban for more than three years, said he and his family were grateful to hear the news about Amiri, and they remained hopeful that Mahmood would be brought home as well. Mahmood Habibi, an Afghan-American business owner, worked as a contractor for a Kabul-based telecommunications company and vanished in 2022. The FBI and his family have said they believe he was taken by the Taliban, who have denied holding him. We are grateful that senior officials at the State Department and National Security Council have repeatedly assured us that any deal they do with the Taliban will be all or nothing and they have explicitly assured us that they will not leave my brother behind, Ahmad Habibi said. The Associated Press contributed to this report. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Donald Trump will attend a speech given by his Secretary of War Pete Hegseth this week to the nations top brass, who are flying in from all over the world to hear the former Fox host talk critically about the militarys mentality. The Washington Post reported that a White House planning document was issued Saturday advising officials of the presidents updated schedule, which will now include an excursion to Quantico for Hegseths address. According to the Post, the move will add a significant cost to the top of an already climbing price tag surrounding the meeting itself, which involved high-ranking officers flying in from as far as Europe and the Indo-Pacific, along with support staff. The cost was already estimated in the millions. We have confirmation from the White House that POTUS is now attending the speech on Tuesday, reads the document obtained by the Post. Trump had been asked by a reporter last week if hed attend during an Oval Office event; the president demurred at the time. Hegseths address will reportedly be centered around restoring a warrior ethos in the military. Donald Trump is set to attent Pete Hegseths speech in Virginia, which is pulling top brass in from postings around the world for remarks on a warrior ethos ( Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved ) In practice, his tenure as secretary has been defined as a focus on the hard-nosed aesthetic of the U.S. armed forces, with flashy promotions and other changes to the service, such as cancelling DEI efforts and renaming the Department of Defense as the Department of War becoming his top focus. The White House and DoD have also gleefully publicized the destruction of several Venezuelan ships alleged by the U.S. government to be transporting narcotics, which some experts say are violations of international law. Vice President JD Vance questioned reporters for covering the story of Hegseth summoning hundreds of brass to Virginia, an act which confused members of Congress and was described by active-duty and civilian defense officials alike as a waste of time and money. Why is that such a big deal? Vance asked reporters in the Oval Office on Thursday. I think its odd that you guys have made it into such a big story. But the speech could have broader implications than merely annoying generals and admirals, while racking up fees for the government. It could also potentially lead to some of those high-ranking officers being essentially stranded away from their command posts in the event of a government shutdown, when non-essential government functions are largely shuttered. A shutdown is set to begin at 12:01 a.m. Wednesday morning, if a funding extension is not passed through Congress before then. Republicans, despite controlling both chambers of Congress, do not have the votes to pass any funding extensions without Democrats getting on board. Multiple currently-serving officials, speaking anonymously, trashed the effort as an expensive distraction in comments to reporters this past week, withholding their names to protect themselves from Trumps retribution. Spending millions of dollars to jerk the entire militarys leadership to a short speech seems wasteful unless its an emergency, one former defense auditing official told the Post last week. As secretary, Hegseth has led the charge in bringing MAGAs aesthetic vision to a reality in the U.S. armed forces. His efforts have often clashed with existing department policy and the advice of more senior officers. He ordered a 20 percent reduction in the number of four-star generals and admirals earlier this year, and last month, reportedly fired a lieutenant general after the agency he led determined that U.S. strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities in May werent as effective as President Donald Trump has claimed publicly. Top attorneys for the military branches have also been fired by Hegseth, under the assertion that they were not well-suited to their roles. In January, Hegseth gave another speech about restoring the warrior ethos to the military after he was sworn in. During an address to U.S. troops stationed in Qatar, he insinuated that a warrior ethos essentially boiled down to a traditional conservative view of masculinity: No more political correctness, gender pronouns, DEI, CRT, or climate change. We're in the business of warfighting." HAIKOU, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- Amid rising geopolitical headwinds and intense market competition, German carmakers bet on Chinese tech partners to fast-track their electrification and smart-vehicle shift. At the three-day 2025 World New Energy Vehicle Congress (WNEVC), starting on Saturday, Sean Green, president and CEO of BMW Group Region China, showcased the veteran carmaker's partnerships with China's domestic leaders in batteries, driver-assist systems, and AI foundation models. During a seminar presentation to attendees in the global automotive industry, Green highlighted joint projects with battery giant CATL to co-design large cylindrical cells, a partnership with Chinese self-driving startup Momenta to develop driver-assist software, and a collaboration to integrate Alibaba's AI foundation model and Huawei's intelligent-vehicle stack into BMW cars. "This goes beyond conventional partnerships," and it forms "a symbiotic ecosystem that benefits both sides," said Green. "Technology openness is the valuable experience we took from China's success," he added. In China, BMW has its largest production base and R&D team outside Germany, with over 3,000 engineers across R&D centers in Beijing, Shanghai, Shenyang and Nanjing, as well as three dedicated software development companies. "China is highly competitive," said Oliver Zipse, chairman of the board of management of BMW AG, in an earlier interview with Xinhua. Yet "the biggest innovations we see come out of China," and "combining our strengths allows us to develop products that set new standards globally." Daniel Navarro Rios, executive vice president of Mercedes-Benz Group China, stated at Saturday's seminar on China-German collaboration that the company has established partnerships across the Chinese academic and industrial sectors. It teams up with Tencent, ByteDance and Tsinghua University. "We are leveraging China's dynamic ecosystem. We build a strong R&D network in China, and we are driving innovation at China speed," said Navarro Rios. Zhang Lan, vice president of Volkswagen Group China, said the Chinese and German collaborative teams are rewriting the auto giant's "China speed" -- "not just streamlined processes, but a full-scale upgrade in tech synergy and decision-making efficiency," citing its partnerships with SAIC Motor and Xpeng Motors. She admitted China is the world's fiercest market. Brands must deliver high-spec, competitively priced cars, stay profitable amid intense competition, and continue to innovate rapidly. "Cooperation and competition are two sides of the same coin," Hildegard Muller, president of the German Association of the Automotive Industry, observed in talking of the commercial rivalry between Chinese and German automakers. Muller stressed that the two industries are highly complementary, a dynamic that "enables both sides to accelerate innovation and achieve outcomes greater than the sum of the parts." German firms bring deep expertise in automotive engineering and safety standards. At the same time, their Chinese counterparts excel at large-scale market rollouts, rapid product iterations, and nationwide charging-infrastructure build-outs, according to Muller. Wan Gang, president of China Association for Science and Technology, echoed in his speech that the automotive industry has always been a globally competitive sector, where competition is a market norm and serves to meet consumers' demands. In Muller's perspective, protectionism in the auto sector inflicts far greater harm: tariffs jeopardize the international division of labor, a system she called "a great success story that must be preserved." With the theme "Industrial Transformation and Sustainable Development," the 2025 WNEVC was held in Haikou, the capital of south China's Hainan Province, from Sept. 27 to 29. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice President Donald Trump has demanded that federal troops be deployed to Portland, Oregon, to protect immigration facilities from protesters even though the number of arrests outside the facility has been dropping now for months. Trump on Saturday ordered Pete Hegseth to deploy troops to protect war-ravaged Portland, and any of our ICE Facilities under siege from attack by Antifa, and other domestic terrorists, the president wrote on Truth Social. It was not immediately clear how many troops would be sent or when their deployment would begin. In response to the news, Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek insisted the state didnt need backup, saying during a press conference, We dont need help. We got this. Data published Saturday by The Oregonian appeared to confirm Koteks claims that the situation is under control. While large-scale protests were held outside Portlands Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility in June, resulting in 18 arrests, the number of arrests at the facility ever since has dwindled, according to the report. open image in gallery A quiet U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility is shown on Saturday, Sept. 27, 2025 in Portland ( AP ) After peaking in June, four people were charged on July 4 following another large anti-ICE protest. In recent weeks, no more than several dozen demonstrators have gathered each day in protest outside the facility, according to the report. The people arrested have faced numerous accusations in federal court, including vandalizing the ICE field office, disrupting the electronic key card reader at the buildings entrance, blocking federal vehicles from leaving the property, throwing rocks or sticks at officers, shining lasers into officers eyes and barricading the entry gate. They face federal charges ranging from felony aggravated assault of a federal officer to destruction of government property and misdemeanor failure to follow lawful orders, according to the report. Officers from Federal Protective Services, which handles security at federal buildings, as well as Homeland Security, Border Patrol and ICE have all made arrests. Portland police also arrested about two dozen people related to protests in June. Most of those charged in federal court have been released while awaiting trial. At least three people have been sentenced to six months of probation after pleading guilty to failing to follow a lawful order, a misdemeanor. Five more people are scheduled to enter guilty pleas in the next month. Even though the protests have decreased in size and force in recent months, Trump on Saturday demanded troops be deployed and authorized Full Force, if necessary. open image in gallery Only several dozen protesters have continued demonstrating daily outside the ICE facility in Portland, despite Trumps claims that the situation has gotten out of hand, according to a report ( Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. ) We have the situation under control with the ICE facility in Portland. Theres not a problem at the federal facility, and when there is a situation that requires police enforcement, it is happening and we are holding people accountable, Kotek said. Portland Mayor Keith Wilson responded to Trumps demand in a statement, writing, "President Trump has directed 'all necessary Troops' to Portland, Oregon. The number of necessary troops is zero, in Portland and any other American city. Our nation has a long memory for acts of oppression, and the president will not find lawlessness or violence here unless he plans to perpetrate it. Imagine if the federal government sent hundreds of engineers, or teachers, or outreach workers to Portland, instead of a short, expensive, and fruitless show of force." Kotek and other city leaders also noted that the demonstrations outside the ICE building are much smaller than the nightly protests downtown after George Floyds killing in 2020. Leading up to Trumps announcement, the president claimed that crazy people in Portland were attempting to set buildings on fire, including federal facilities. The announcement also came days after a shooting at an ICE facility in Dallas, which left one person dead. If federal forces are sent to Portland, it would represent the latest in a series of contentious military deployments to U.S. cities, including Los Angeles, Washington, D.C., and possibly Memphis. All of the cities facing Trumps wrath are Democratic-run. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Get our free Inside Washington email Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Vice President JD Vance has promised that more political retribution against Donald Trumps enemies is coming. Vance was interviewed on Fox News Sunday by Martha MacCallum about the criminal indictment of former FBI Director James Comey and insisted that certainly more criminal charges would be issued under Trump. Well, theres certainly gonna be more indictments coming over the next three and a half years of the Trump administration, but were always going to let the law drive this stuff, and the facts of the case, and not political motivations, said Vance. Which frankly makes us so much different from the Biden administration, where they indicted not just the president of the United States but so many people who were engaged in policymaking. MacCallum noted that one of the targets of Trumps intended retribution was Adam Schiff, a Democratic senator from California, whose reason for incurring Trumps ire stems from his participation in the first impeachment of the president in 2020, when he served as an impeachment manager. JD Vance claimed that the Department of Justice was not being politicized under the Trump administration ( X - Fox News Sunday ) Schiff is one of several Democrats the president has leaned on his subordinates to threaten with criminal charges. Others include Letitia James, the attorney general of New York, whose prosecution of Trump for tax fraud was ultimately nullified by his re-election, and Lisa Cook, a member of the Federal Reserve Board of Governors. Despite White House efforts to pressure the DOJ into pursuing prosecutions, Vance and others have tried to dismiss descriptions of a politicized Justice Department as inaccurate. On NBCs Meet the Press on Sunday, the Senates top Republican took a similar stance. Sen. John Thune told Kristen Welker that he had confidence in the courts to sort out whether the indictment of Comey for obstruction and lying to Congress, as it related to his 2020 testimony to the House Oversight Committee, held water. He also pushed back against the notion that GOP congressional leadership, himself included, was too deferential to the Republican president. Its based upon the findings of a grand jury, Kristen, Thune told Welker, noting that the Senate Judiciary Committee had also looked into the matter of whether Comey had lied to Congress. It was by a jury of his peers. I trust the judicial system and the justice system to figure this out, he continued. During his tenure as FBI director under Obama and the first Trump administration, Comey oversaw two investigations with extreme political consequences: the Hillary Clinton email investigation and the probe into the first Trump campaigns alleged ties to Russia. He was eventually fired by Trump halfway through the presidents first year in office. Before his firing, he clashed repeatedly with the president over his refusal to assert publicly that the president himself was not being investigated for possible criminal activity. Comey was a frequent target of Trump on Truth Social in the run-up to his indictment. We cant delay any longer, its killing our reputation and credibility. They impeached me twice, and indicted me (5 times!), OVER NOTHING. JUSTICE MUST BE SERVED, NOW!!! the president wrote in one revealing rant last Saturday. He followed up after Comeys charging: JUSTICE IN AMERICA! One of the worst human beings this Country has ever been exposed to is James Comey, the former Corrupt Head of the FBI. Trump has also maintained that he is not personally involved in the DoJs decision-making. At the Eastern District of Virginia, where Comeys indictment was filed, a 36-year-old acting U.S. attorney with no prosecutorial experience, Lindsey Halligan, is leading the case against the former FBI director, after her predecessor resigned in protest over a refusal to file charges against James, the New York AG. One of the three counts filed against Comey by the acting prosecutor was rejected. Halligan previously was a White House aide. On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Moldovans began voting on Sunday for a parliamentary election poised to have a major impact on the government's quest to join the European Union, as a popular pro-Russian group seeks to steer the small nation away from closer ties with the bloc. Should neither side secure a majority in the 101-seat parliament, political horse trading is likely to follow, further unsettling one of Europe's poorest countries. Moldova is already buffeted by war in neighbouring Ukraine and allegations of Russian interference in politics and religion. To a government aspiring to join the EU, control of parliament is vital for the long-term legislative efforts required. But power in the former Soviet republic has swung for decades between pro-European and pro-Russian groups. About a third of the country - Transdniestria, east of the Dniestr river - is controlled by a breakaway pro-Russian administration, and hosts a small Russian garrison. Moldovas government warns of Russian interference President Maia Sandu casts the election as an existential test for the country of 2.4 million, which also has close cultural and linguistic ties with its western neighbour Romania, and says an extensive Russian campaign to sway the vote is a direct threat. "If Russia gains control over Moldova, the consequences will be immediate and dangerous for our country and for the entire region," Sandu said in an address last Monday. Polls indicate that her Party of Action and Solidarity (PAS) could struggle to keep its majority. Opposition forces like the pro-Russian Patriotic Bloc have tapped into voter unease over economic turmoil and the slow pace of reforms, grievances worsened by what officials say has been widespread disinformation. open image in gallery Moldovan President Maia Sandu votes at a polling station ( Reuters ) In recent weeks, authorities have launched hundreds of raids targeting illegal party financing and allegedly Russian-backed networks aimed at stirring unrest over the vote. On Friday, the Election Commission barred Heart of Moldova, part of the Patriotic Bloc, from the election while it is investigated for illicit funding. Moscow has denied meddling and says the PAS-controlled government is spreading anti-Russian hysteria to win votes. Sandu and PAS have cast European integration as key to Moldova's future and escaping the influence of Moscow, its Soviet-era ruler. But many voters appear more focused on domestic issues, wary of what closer ties with the EU might mean for Moldova's heavily agricultural economy. Regional income disparities have added to the uncertainty. Moldovans divided over future path Viorica Burlacu, a fruit seller in the capital Chisinau, said that the war being waged by Russia in Ukraine showed that Molvoda needed Europe's protection. "We're afraid of war; no one wants that," said the 46-year-old. "So we're reaching out to Europe for at least some protection." In Balti, a northern Moldovan city, 82-year-old Maria Scotari offered a different perspective. She recalled being happy as a young student living in the Soviet Union. open image in gallery People vote at a polling station in Chisinau ( Reuters ) "What was so bad about it? That's how life was. I was a student, everything was fine, everything was great." If it loses its majority, PAS will be forced to seek coalition partners among opponents like the centre-left Alternative bloc or the populist Our Party, if they pass the threshold to enter parliament. Recent polls point to a tight race. Earlier in September, one poll showed PAS had slipped into second place for the first time with 34.7% backing, behind 36% for the Patriotic Bloc, including Socialists and Communists. But the large diaspora could have a decisive impact; voters abroad are not reflected in polling data but usually tend to back pro-European parties. On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A 12-year-old girl was among four killed and at least 70 injured after a 12-hour Russian drone and missile attack on Ukraine, with the capital Kyiv suffering the heaviest assault. The air assault, which took place overnight and into Sunday, was the first major bombardment since a similar attack killed at least 21 people last month. Ukraines president Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the vile bombardment that lasted more than 12 hours and involved nearly 600 drones and several dozen missiles. News of the destruction came as Denmarks defence ministry said that it had observed drones at several of its armed forces locations overnight for a second consecutive day. open image in gallery Houses destroyed in Russias air attack in Kyiv ( AFP via Getty ) Nato has said that it will upgrade its mission in the Baltic Sea following reports of drone incursions into Denmark. Colonel Martin ODonnel, a Nato spokesperson, said that we will conduct even more enhanced vigilance with new multi-domain assets in the Baltic Sea region, which includes Denmark, under Baltic Sentry. He said Nato leaders had been in constant contact with Danish leaders about the recent drone incidents and that the assets would include "multiple intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance platforms and at least one air-defence frigate". open image in gallery Rescuers work at the site of heavily damaged residential buildings in Kyiv ( AFP via Getty ) Separately, Germany said that following a request from Denmark, its armed forces would provide military support for the upcoming European Union summit later this week in Copenhagen In Ukraine, Mr Zelensky said Zaporizhzhia, Khmelnytskyi, Sumy, Mykolaiv, Chernihiv and Odesa regions were also hit in the renewed Russian attacks. Zaporizhzhias governor Ivan Fedorov said three children two boys, aged 11 and 12 and a nine-year-old girl, were among the 34 people injured in the region. Ilona Kovalenko, a 38-year-old resident of a five-storey building in Kyiv's Solomianskyi district that was struck, described being woken up by an explosion which shattered windows. open image in gallery A man prepares to cover a damaged car with a plastic sheet at the site of a Russian air attack on the outskirts of Kyiv ( AFP via Getty ) She said that the 12-year-old girl, named Oleksandra, who died in the attack, was her neighbours daughter. "A neighbour kept knocking on our door. She was completely covered in blood and shouting, 'help, save my daughter'," said Ms Kovalenko, who fled the building with her grandmother after the strike. "Sadly, she died on the spot," Ms Kovalenko added. "We are in shock, to be honest." Mr Zelensky vowed that Ukraine will strike back and called on the US and Europe to curb their Russian oil and gas imports. Ukraines foreign minister Andrii Sybiha responded to the attack, saying: We must maximise the cost of further escalation for Russia. Russias defence ministry said on Sunday that it had carried out a massive attack on Ukraine using long-range air and sea-based weapons and drones to hit military infrastructure, including airfields. The assault also triggered military responses in neighbouring Poland, where fighter jets were deployed early on Sunday as Russia struck targets in western Ukraine, according to the Polish armed forces. Reporting contributed by The Associated Press and Reuters. On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice This article first appeared on our partner site, Independent Arabia Israel has launched a campaign to target multistorey buildings in Gaza, a territory that has already lost much of its urban landscape and where civilian life is reduced to rubble. The residential Mushta Tower was demolished, Mecca Tower was threatened, and all high-rise buildings seem to await similar fates. The destruction of these residential towers carries longstanding political, military and civil implications. While the inhabitants of Mushta Tower were going about their daily lives, Israeli military officers contacted one resident and ordered the evacuation of the 55-metre, 16-storey building, which housed more than 80 apartments that were home to some 400 people. Located in western Gaza City with a view of the sea, Mushta Tower was one of the most prominent architectural landmarks in the territorys largest urban complex. It housed restaurants, shops, offices, company headquarters and residential units, and was surrounded by the expansive Al-Kateeba Square. During the current conflict, the Israeli army had already destroyed the buildings upper floors, a move it says it took to prevent the detection and surveillance of its soldiers from a high vantage point. When displaced residents returned to Gaza City, the partially destroyed tower became a temporary shelter for families whose homes had been destroyed, forming the site of the largest tent city in the area, hosting over 2,500 families. open image in gallery Displaced Palestinians salvage items from the rubble of the Al-Ghafari tower after it was destroyed in Israeli strikes in Gaza City ( AFP/Getty ) Just hours after the warning was issued, Israeli warplanes struck the tower with four air-to-ground bombs, reducing the entire structure to rubble. Residents, along with the displaced families living nearby, were left homeless on the streets. Gazas urban landscape The demolition of Mushta Tower is just the beginning of Israels next operation in Gaza, as the army has announced a campaign to target multistorey buildings in central Gaza City. Israeli military spokesperson Ivi Devirin claimed that the strikes on taller buildings came after Hamas allegedly converted them into military infrastructure. Gaza does not have true high-rise towers or skyscrapers in the conventional sense. Israel restricts the construction of large buildings in the territory, arguing that such structures could expose its own territory and pose a security risk. Nevertheless, Gaza is home to multistorey buildings of varying heights, the tallest of which has only 16 floors. Each floor typically houses four to six residential units. According to the Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics, Gaza City alone has 1,540 multistorey residential buildings, locally referred to as towers. Over the course of the 23-month-long war, Israel has destroyed a significant number of these buildings. However, the exact number of towers demolished remains unknown, as housing ministry teams are unable to conduct comprehensive surveys. What parts of Gaza are still habitable? During the first and second phases of the Israeli war on Gaza, the military focused on dismantling Hamass capabilities, destroying numerous buildings in the process. However, in the third phase of fighting, Israel has shifted its efforts towards systematically bombing and demolishing residential buildings. Geographically, Israel has completely destroyed the northern Gaza Strip including Beit Hanoun, Beit Lahia and Jabalia. They left no buildings standing and destroyed all infrastructure, leaving the north uninhabitable. The army also completely devastated the southern city of Rafah and destroyed nearly 70 per cent of nearby Khan Younis. Currently, only two areas remain with a small number of buildings intact: Deir al-Balah and parts of central Gaza City. As a result, the territorys 2.3 million residents are all crowded into the narrow confines of these two areas. open image in gallery People search the mound of rubble at the site of the destroyed Sussi Tower in Gaza City ( AFP/Getty ) Aware of what remains, Israel launched Operation Gideons Chariots 2, targeting Gaza City and Deir al-Balah. Defence Minister Yisrael Katz threatened that Israel would turn the whole of Gaza into a heap of rubble as they had done with Rafah and Beit Hanoun. He said: The gates of hell are now open on Gaza. Our fighter jets are conducting intensive strikes targeting residential towers in the city. The hell will not end until Hamas accepts our terms to end the war; otherwise, the city will be completely destroyed. Much of Gaza City was already destroyed during Operation Gideons Chariots, and the preparatory phase for the citys occupation. Eastern neighbourhoods including Shujaiyya, Zeitoun, Sabra, Tuffah, the Old City, Al-Daraj and Sheikh Radwan were levelled. These neighbourhoods account for 40 per cent of the citys total area. What remains of the territorys largest urban complex are neighbourhoods in western Gaza City, such as Tel al-Hawa, Al-Rimal, Al-Jalaa, Al-Nasr and Al-Shati, where residential towers and multistorey buildings are concentrated. The few other surviving areas are in Deir al-Balah Governorate, which encompasses Deir al-Balah, Al-Nuseirat, Al-Maghazi, Al-Bureij and Al-Zawayda. Targeting multistoreys is a longstanding approach Despite the widespread destruction, some of Gazas architectural landmarks remain, along with a small number of residential towers and multistorey buildings that the Israeli army has not yet demolished. All of these structures now face the threat of complete destruction. The policy of hitting towers is not new; Israel first adopted it in 2014. At that time, the approach was partial, but it has since evolved into a comprehensive and sustained strategy during the current war. Speaking to Independent Arabia, political science professor Mansour Abu Karim explains: Israel believes that targeting towers increases military pressure on armed factions and sometimes compels them to make concessions in mediator-led negotiations to halt the fighting. open image in gallery Smoke billows near tents sheltering displaced Palestinians after Israeli bombardment of Al-Ruya Tower in Gaza City ( AFP via Getty ) He adds: The demolition of multistorey buildings in 2014 served as a powerful leverage against Hamas and other factions. Towers represented the final phases of that war. At the time, Mousa Abu Marzouk, a member of Hamass political bureau, called on the Palestinian president Mahmoud Abbas to intervene, leading to a ceasefire based on the agreements of the 2012 war. Prof Abu Karim continues: Israel will continue its policy of targeting residential towers. The current phase of the Gaza war focuses primarily on destroying these buildings, a strategy that could push Hamas into making significant concessions. What does this mean for Gazas residents? The destruction of residential towers carries significant social repercussions. Hikmat Youssef, a Gaza resident, spoke about the impact of the demolition of residential towers on the Palestinian community and said: Bombing the towers is not merely a military act it is a horrifying message aimed at breaking the will of an entire people, destroying life, uprooting their sense of security, and instilling fear in every child, woman and elderly person. Israel is not targeting stone; it is targeting the meaning of belonging. The aim is to dismantle community bonds and strip people from their roots, making them strangers in their own land or refugees into nothingness. Tel Aviv wants Gazans to wake up each day asking, Where will we die today? rather than, How will we live? Rajai, another Gaza resident, adds: The destruction of high-rise buildings in Gaza primarily seeks to terrorise civilians and forcibly drive them to flee. This effect is amplified when displaced families tents are located near these towers, making the scene of devastation an additional factor in breaking morale and heightening fear of death. Meanwhile, Khalil explains: Israel does not stop at demolishing homes in neighbourhoods and camps; it insists on destroying towers that are prominent landmarks in the citys memory and identity. Before the war, these towers symbolised Gazas relative urban development. Now, they stand as witnesses to a systematic erasure of everything that connects the place to its past and present. The demolition of high-rises also has political dimensions. Political analyst Rafiq Hani says: Residential towers have become symbols of a new approach in this bloody war, based on the systematic destruction of all elements of life. Bringing down tower after tower reflects not only Israels determination to expand the scope of destruction but also a deeper strategy aimed at emptying the city of its residents and pre-empting any potential political settlement. open image in gallery Displaced Palestinians flee northern Gaza after Israeli forces ordered residents of Gaza City to move south earlier this month ( Reuters ) He adds: The armys targeting of residential towers serves multiple objectives, the most prominent of which is to make the Gaza Strip uninhabitable after the war. These towers are the only structures alleviating the territorys extreme population density. [Gaza is] arguably the most densely populated area in the world. Their destruction will intensify the demographic pressure Gaza already suffers. Mr Hani concludes that Israels aim in this destruction is to pave the way for displacement, reminiscent of 1948, when terror was used to uproot hundreds of thousands of Palestinians. The current objective is to force mass displacement and leave people with no prospect of return or reconstruction. Conflicting narratives From a military standpoint, security expert Wasif Arikat tells Independent Arabia: Residential towers represent a strategic target for Israel in its operations, as they provide elevated positions that armed factions could exploit to carry out attacks. Palestinian Civil Defence spokesperson Mahmoud Basal, however, accuses Israel of implementing a systematic policy of forced displacement, targeting high-rise buildings. He explains: This is not just bombing stone it is a policy of forcible eviction, leaving entire families exposed and homeless, with no safe spaces. These concerns were echoed by United Nations spokesperson Stephane Dujarric, who said: Gaza City, long associated in the collective consciousness with its seaside views and iconic towers that defined its modern skyline, now appears featureless. These developments are forcing increasing numbers of people to flee into areas already densely occupied by displaced populations. Israels military, however, has a different story. Army spokesperson Avichay Adraee says: Multistorey buildings have been converted into military infrastructure by Hamas. We will target these buildings in the coming days as a prelude to expanding operations in Gaza City. He adds: We have observed intensive armed activity by Hamas in Gaza City, particularly in high-rise towers. The group has integrated intelligence capabilities, sniper positions and rocket launch sites, and established control centres within the towers. Mr Adraee adds: Israel adheres to the rules of war. All measures are taken to avoid civilian casualties, including advance warnings to residents, precision munitions, aerial reconnaissance and intelligence-gathering. Hamas, accused of using the buildings for military purposes, denies the claims. Izzat al-Rishq, a member of its political bureau, says: Attempts to justify targeting residential towers in Gaza are flimsy pretexts and lies. We do not use civilian infrastructure for military purposes. Israel continues a policy of extermination and widespread destruction across the territory. Translated by Dalia Mohamed; Reviewed by Tooba Khokhar and Celine Assaf On The Ground newsletter: Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly dispatch from our international correspondents Get a weekly international news dispatch Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Greta Thunberg has hit back at claims that the flotilla of Gaza-bound humanitarian aid ships she is on is a publicity stunt. The Swedish activist is one of over 500 volunteers aboard the flotilla aiming to deliver medical supplies and food to the population of Gaza, who are experiencing widespread hunger due to an Israeli naval blockade. Israeli authorities have characterised the Global Sumud Flotilla as a publicity stunt a claim activists on board deny. Asked in an interview with Laura Kuenssberg on the BBC about the accusations, Ms Thunberg said: First of all I dont think anyone would risk their lives for a publicity stunt. Second of all, if you think its a publicity stunt, have you asked people in Gaza if they consider this a publicity stunt? She added: I repeat, this mission should not have to exist, we do not want to be doing this, but we have to keep trying, right? open image in gallery The Swedish activist is one of over 500 volunteers aboard the flotilla aiming to deliver medical supplies and food to the population of Gaza ( AP ) If we just thought to ourselves, Well, Im just one person I cant make a difference then almost no one would have rights by now. The Global Sumud Flotilla describes itself as a multinational civilian effort to break Israels illegal siege of Gaza. It is made up of more than 500 volunteers, including doctors, lawyers, politicians and activists. They say the flotilla is the largest attempt to date to break Israels maritime blockade of the Gaza Strip, which has now lasted 18 years. Israel says the blockade is needed to prevent Hamas from importing arms, but critics consider it collective punishment. open image in gallery Volunteers say the flotilla is the largest attempt to date to break Israels maritime blockade of the Gaza Strip ( Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved ) The Israeli foreign ministry has proposed that the activists unload their aid in the Israeli port of Ashkelon for it to be transported into Gaza and said it would not allow the breach of a lawful naval blockade. Earlier this week, activists on board said multiple drones had targeted the flotilla in the waters south of Crete. It said several of its boats were met by swarms of drones circling overhead on Wednesday. open image in gallery Earlier this week, activists said multiple drones had targeted the flotilla in the waters south of Crete ( Reuters ) A vessel was also sprayed with unidentified chemicals, sound-bombs and explosive flares and had their communications jammed, according to the crew. The team reported hearing 15 to 16 drones and 13 explosions on or around several boats. The flotilla has reported several attacks since it set sail from Spain on 1 September, including two while some of its boats were in Tunisian waters. In response to the most recent attacks, Italy and Spain said they were sending military ships to provide assistance and possible rescues if needed. Protesters gathered outside the Labour Party conference in Liverpool on Sunday (28 September) to oppose plans for a new national digital ID card. Demonstrators carried banners reading No to digital ID, as they warned the scheme could pave the way for surveillance and the exclusion of vulnerable groups. The protest remained peaceful under police watch. The protest comes days after Sir Keir Starmer unveiled proposals for a new BritCard digital ID system. Nearby, a separate demonstration was held against the Palestine Action ban. Greta Thunberg fired back at Donald Trump after the US president decried climate change as the greatest con job ever perpetrated on the world in his address to the United Nations General Assembly this week. Speaking without a working teleprompter, the Republican quoted several UN officials years-long warnings about the impacts of climate change, before declaring it a con job believed by stupid people" on Tuesday (23 September). The climate activist, who was travelling with a flotilla of Gaza-bound humanitarian aid ships, told Sunday With Laura Kuenssberg that she did not feel Mr Trump's comments were worthy of a response. "The statements that some of the world's most powerful people are making are nothing less than out of a parody." Irish people working in Brussels are on tenterhooks this weekend, wondering if theyve made the cut. Are they senior enough to land an invitation to the first ever Irish leaders in Brussels networking event, to be held on the rooftop of the Sofitel Brussels Europe hotel on October 15? UNITED NATIONS, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- Stephane Dujarric, chief spokesman for UN Secretary-General, said on Friday that Fox News host Jesse Watters apologized for his comments suggesting that the United Nations should be "bombed." Watters made the comments during Jesse Watters Primetime on Tuesday while discussing U.S. President Donald Trump's address to world leaders at the General Debate of the 80th UN General Assembly (UNGA). His remarks came after Trump experienced technical difficulties with an escalator and a teleprompter at the UN headquarters. "What we need to do is either leave the UN or we need to bomb it... maybe gas it... we need to destroy it," Watters said during the broadcast. After the UN contacted Fox News about his remarks, Watters issued a private apology to Melissa Fleming, UN under-secretary-general for global communications. Dujarric emphasized during a briefing that such language was unacceptable. "There is nothing funny or ironic in calling for the bombing, the gassing, the destruction of this building," he said. Regarding the technical issues, the UN confirmed that the escalator malfunction occurred after Trump and First Lady Melania Trump stepped onto it, because a White House videographer likely triggered the safety mechanism that caused the escalator to stop. A UN official said the teleprompter was being operated by the White House, according to Reuters. "If someone at the UN intentionally stopped the escalator as the President and First Lady were stepping on, they need to be fired and investigated immediately," White House Press Secretary Leavitt wrote on X on Wednesday. The General Debate of the 80th UNGA officially opened at the UN headquarters in New York on Tuesday. Nearly 150 heads of state and government attended the high-level week of the UNGA. Taylor Swift on stage at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin during the Eras Tour last summer. Photo: PA There will be fireworks in the High Court after Rocket Pyrotechnics Irelands leading firework display company took a legal case against An Coimisiun Pleanala. The Avoca, Co Wicklow-based firm is seeking a judicial review of a decision by the planning board to refuse it permission to build a storage facility in a rural area of north Co Mayo. I thought the whole business of US tariffs on EU goods was sorted. Why is it back in the news? Because US President Donald Trump has said that from October 1, next Wednesday, there will be a 100pc tariff on imports of branded or patented pharmaceutical products, unless their manufacturer is building a factory in America. Partner Content The Cyber Summit and Cyber Irelands National Conference are both coming up. Photo: Getty Ireland has established its reputation as a significant global hub for cyber security innovation, with more than 140 dedicated companies here employing more than 8,000 professionals. And Irish firms are making notable advances in areas such as AI-powered threat detection, identity management, vulnerability prioritisation and secure data technologies. Enterprise Ireland will host its three-day Cyber Summit this October 7-9, with events taking place in Dublin and Kilkenny. The event will bring together Irish cyber security companies and international buyers to foster commercial opportunities and partnerships. As part of the summit, more than a dozen overseas delegates from the financial services, healthcare and telecoms sectors will travel from the UK, Europe, and beyond to meet with 18 Enterprise Ireland cyber security client companies. Industry leaders will offer insights into cyber strategy and global developments Participating companies include Tines, Integrity360, Daon, CWSI, Siren, Triangle, Cytidel and UrbanFox. The international visitors will be accompanied by advisors from Enterprise Irelands network of global offices, including colleagues from London, Milan, Tokyo, Stockholm and Sydney, highlighting the agencys commitment to supporting Irish companies to expand their global reach. The final day of the summit, October 9, coincides with Cyber Irelands National Conference (CINC25), which is sponsored by Enterprise Ireland. Cyber Ireland is the national representative body for the cyber security sector, with a growing membership of over 200 organisations. CINC25 takes place at the Lyrath Estate Hotel, Co Kilkenny, and will attract more than 500 industry leaders who will offer insights into Irelands national cyber strategy, EU regulations, and global policy developments shaping cyber security resilience and compliance. Attendees will hear from senior leaders from across the sector in Ireland, along with international thought leaders and representatives from research institutes and the public sector. Speakers are set to include US experts Dave Ahn, chief architect and VP intelligence at Centripetal, and Dennis Chow, director of detection engineering at UKG. In todays ever evolving security landscape, its more vital than ever that Irelands thriving cyber security cluster continues to innovate, collaborate and grow. Enterprise Ireland also supports the Irish cyber ecosystem by funding CyberInnovate (CyberInnovate.ie). This is a 10-month postgraduate entrepreneurship programme at MTU designed for professionals keen to gain the expertise, skills and network needed to set up a cyber business. Enterprise Ireland also co-funds The Collaboratory, based at the TU Dublin Blanchardstown campus. This is an innovation, technology and industry solutions hub which provides supports and services to Irish start-ups and SMEs in areas of emerging technologies. It boasts a state-of-the-art technical facility where SMEs can test cyber scenarios and threat responses at the cutting- edge operations centre there. As Irelands cyber security firms gather for the conference, its worth noting that SMEs also have support to build their resilience and boost their cyber security. It involves an expert check of your software, data, cloud risk and network security Whether SMEs are worried about being hacked, preventing data breaches or ensuring theyre GDPR-compliant, they can apply to Enterprise Ireland for funded support for a cyber security review. This is an audit of any potential cyber threats that could affect your business. It involves an expert check of your software, data, cloud risk, network security and device management, among other factors. It also examines your cyber awareness training and culture, your incident response and business continuity planning and your overall cyber governance. There is a fixed cost of 3,000 for the review and its 80pc funded by Enterprise Ireland. For more information about how Enterprise Ireland can help your cybersecurity business identify and access supports and opportunities, you can visit Enterprise-Ireland.com. Anna-Marie Turley is head of fintech, financial services & cyber security at Enterprise Ireland Liam Gallagher has dedicated a song to his brother accused of rape at Oasiss Wembley Stadium show (Jordan Pettitt/PA) Liam Gallagher dedicated Oasis song Stand By Me to his older brother Paul, who is accused of rape, as the band returned to Wembley Stadium for the final UK shows of their reunion tour. Paul Gallagher, 59, denied the charge when he appeared at Harrow Crown Court, which was sitting at Southwark Crown Court, on Friday, He also pleaded not guilty to coercive and controlling behaviour, three counts of sexual assault, three counts of intentional strangulation, two counts of making a threat to kill, and assault occasioning actual bodily harm. Paul Gallagher leaves Southwark Crown Court in London (Jordan Pettitt/PA) The alleged offences took place between 2022 and 2024, according to the charge sheet. Oasis have returned to the UK for two final shows at Wembley as part of their Live 25 tour before they head to Japan and South Korea, Australia and South America. The brothers arrived on stage on Saturday hand-in-hand, opening with Hello, from their 1995 album (Whats The Story) Morning Glory?, with Liam holding a maraca. He greeted the rapturous crowd, saying: Have you missed us? before launching into anthems that included Some Might Say, Morning Glory and Roll With It. The hits came thick and fast, but Liam paused at one point to say: I want to dedicate this one to Paul Gallagher, before launching into Stand By Me. Oasis announced their reunion tour in August last year, 16 years after their dramatic split in 2009 which saw Noel quit following a backstage brawl at the Rock en Seine festival in Paris. Liam Gallagher has dedicated a song to his brother accused of rape at Oasiss Wembley Stadium show (Jordan Pettitt/PA) Today's News in 90 Seconds - September 28th The band also dedicated hit Live Forever to boxer Ricky Hatton, who died earlier this month at the age of 46. A picture of Hatton was projected onto the screen behind the stage at the end of the track from the bands 1994 album Definitely Maybe, to cheers from the crowd. The band concluded the show with a trio of their best loved songs Dont Look Back In Anger, Wonderwall and Champagne Supernova. Ahead of the final song, Liam appeared to hint the band will be back for more in 2026 when he told fans: Thank you for keeping the faith. See you next year. The group has been tipped for a return to Knebworth, the site of their famous 1996 gigs. Oasis will return to Wembley for the final UK show of their Live 25 tour on Sunday. Concern that question about gender assigned at birth could pose risk to blood donations Health Minister says query is required as haemoglobin levels differ between men and women Health Minister Jennifer Carroll MacNeill. Photo: Collins Wayne O'Connor Sun 28 Sep 2025 at 06:30 Dozens of blood donors have complained to the blood transfusion service about being asked if they are still the same sex assigned to them at birth prior to giving blood. Fears raised amid mounting evidence of Russian shadow fleet off Irish coast Irish airports could face serious disruption from a wave of escalating drone attacks and are defenceless against the threat, military experts fear. The warning comes as unidentified drones closed five Danish airports last week, with prime minister Mette Frederiksen describing it as part of an attempt to shake the foundations of Europe. Tanya Sweeney: When I moved to London in 1997 it swallowed me whole and spat me out for todays Irish twentysomethings its so much easier My babies looked like lab rats: mothers demand answers over dangers of epilepsy drug during pregnancy A long-awaited inquiry into the use of sodium valproate, which can lead to problems for babies in the womb, is finally under way Karen Keely on the inquiry into families affected by an anti-epilepsy drug that can cause serious birth defects Danielle Barron Sun 28 Sep 2025 at 06:30 You may have seen the advertisements pop up on social media or heard them on the radio. The long-awaited inquiry into the use of sodium valproate in women of childbearing age has finally begun, almost five years after it was promised. A pioneering academic and Fianna Fail activist who promoted North-south co-operation and served as a senator, James Doolan has died at the age of 95. James Augustine Doolan, better known as Jim, was born into a family based in Cork, but they later settled in Dublin, where he was educated at St Marys College in Rathmines. Later feeling he had a vocation for the priesthood, he stayed for a time with the Franciscans in Galway. VICTORIA, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- The Electoral Commission of Seychelles announced Sunday that the country will proceed to a runoff presidential election, as no candidate secured more than half of the votes in the first round. The results of the first round of the Seychelles presidential election were released Sunday. Among the eight candidates, Patrick Herminie of the United Seychelles, the country's main opposition party, received 48.8 percent of the votes, while incumbent President Wavel Ramkalawan of the Seychellois Democratic Union (Linyon Demokratik Seselwa -- LDS) garnered 46.4 percent. According to the electoral commission, the runoff will take place from Oct. 9 to 11. Under the Constitution of Seychelles, the presidential term is five years. A candidate who secures more than half of the votes in the first round is declared the winner. If no candidate achieves this majority, the two leading contenders advance to a second round of voting. On the same day, the electoral commission released the results of the National Assembly election. The United Seychelles won 20 seats, while the LDS secured 15. "I would like to thank the people of Seychelles for making the very wise decision to revisit the percentage of representation in the National Assembly and to give me that support of almost 49 percent so that I can go into a second round," Herminie said shortly after the official announcement of results. For his part, Ramkalawan congratulated the United Seychelles for winning a majority in the National Assembly, saying "it is my second time going into a second round." "I pray only for peace, that we conduct a civilized campaign, and I look forward to this next fight," he added. The last five years have been tortuous George Nkenchos sister hopes upcoming inquest into his death will give her family closure Gloria Nkencho wants to see system changes within An Garda Siochana George Nkencho who was shot dead in December 2020 Ali Bracken Sun 28 Sep 2025 at 06:30 The sister of George Nkencho, who was shot by gardai outside his west Dublin home, hopes that his inquest will lead to system changes within An Garda Siochana so her brothers death was not a waste of life. Tributes are being paid to a fisherman who perished off the Donegal coast. The search for Kevin McCloskey, who had been missing for three days, was stood down after the Coast Guard located a body in the water on Saturday evening. Drones are being used increasingly for intelligence-gathering and warfare Tanaiste Simon Harris has said Ireland shouldn't fool itself into thinking it is immune to drone attacks against vital infrastructure following a wave of disruptions across Europe. In recent days drones have been sighted near military facilities in Denmark as well as Danish airports which have caused significant issues, while suspicious drone sightings have also been made in Germany, Norway and Lithuania. What happened was shocking it upset my family, my friends, myself: Jim Gavin vows to continue fight against social media slurs Fianna Fail presidential candidate will launch his campaign in Dublin today Jim Gavin, with Public Expenditure Minister Jack Chambers to his left, at the Porterstown parkrun. Photo: Mark Condren Maeve Sheehan Sun 28 Sep 2025 at 06:30 Fianna Fails presidential candidate Jim Gavin has said false online posts about his personal life were shocking and upsetting, and promised to make the issue of potential threats made on social media part of his agenda if elected. See-sawing opinions, switching sides and dodgy escalators all in a days work as president takes UN to task It might be the threat of sanctions if Putin does not agree to a ceasefire within 50 days, eventually amended to 10 or 12 days before disappearing somewhere over Alaska. Or it might just be him reporting that Melania is complaining to him about the latest Russian war crimes, with Trump speaking in maudlin tones about what a disappointment Vladimir has been to him. Sophie White: Its almost Christmas and my husband and I are at each others throats. But if were arguing at least it means were not Quiet Divorcing Mairia Cahill: Catherine Connolly preaches peace but cant avoid landmines of her own making Comments on Hamas and Germany suggest the united left candidate may yet discover that moral piety is excellent in theory, but not so much in practice Catherine Connolly has had to explain some comments, especially on foreign policy. Photo: Stephen Collins Mairia Cahill Sun 28 Sep 2025 at 06:30 Catherine Connolly gives off the air of a nun who has joined the convent but refuses to wear the habit. The rebel sister, happy to stay within the institution with all its trappings but carry that cross she will, no matter how tough, due to all of the States sins. It seems we can now accept that democracy has reached an all-time low with the playing out of the presidential nominations. Its not democracy itself, but the conniving, deceitful way our parliamentary representatives deviously play about with it. By purposely blocking an excellent candidate, Maria Steen, they have deterred a significant percentage from the polling booth, therefore not ever giving her the lawful right shes entitled to and the legal right Im entitled to in helping her represent our country with distinction. TDs and senators will hide behind words like democracy, their safety valve, but they need to stop pulling the wool over our eyes. The people must have a say in running our country, where our faith, culture and moral fibre are upheld. Mary Haran Kilbride, Aclare, Co Sligo Presidential race has been a boring affair so far, time to bring on the debates I have heard too many platitudes and boring statements from the three presidential candidates up to now. I want more substance over the next few weeks. Lets hope the debates will put the candidates on their toes about issues such as Gaza, the far right, poverty and housing. Liam Doran, Clondalkin, Dublin 22 Parties of the left missed a trick to take votes from FF and FG candidates Did the combined parties of the left miss an opportunity to affect the vote of the two main party candidates in the presidential election? Had they encouraged or, indeed, coerced two of their parliamentary colleagues to nominate Maria Steen, would the election have been different? The left-leaning nominators could, like Michael Healy-Rae, have nominated her in a spirit of fairness and respect. Just like Healy-Rae, they could have clearly stated their support for another candidate. Like Healy-Rae, they could claim they were allowing the people of Ireland a fair choice when going to the polls. Surely Ms Steens participation in the race would have taken support from the Fine Gael and Fianna Fail candidates, much more so than taking from the combined-left candidate? We will never know what impact this could have had on the outcome. Tim OSullivan, Ballinrobe, Co Mayo Societal rethink on Irish language is needed to make it relevant to pupils In Fridays Irish Independent, Frank Coughlan writes about the history of the teaching of Irish in our schools in the context of foreign languages being introduced into primaries. According to Education Minister Helen McEntee, fifth and sixth class wont be bogged down in French irregular verbs. Instead, they will be taught the basics, including how to greet people or order food. The importance of this is that if the pupil were in France, for example, they might have basic conversational French they could use. The problem with Irish is not so much to do with the methodologies being used to teach the language; it is that pupils see no relevance to the language in their everyday lives. Unless you live in a Gaeltacht region or your parents are Gaeilgeoiri, chances are you have no opportunities to use the language outside the classroom. Subconsciously, the language becomes exclusively associated with school and it is very difficult to shake off this connection. Learning a language is difficult. There has to be real motivation to do it. A societal change is needed in relation to the Irish language. As part of that, pupils must see there is some relevance to it in their lives. Tommy Roddy, Ballybane, Co Galway Trumps tyranny knows no bounds indictment of Comey is his latest move US historian Timothy D Snyder said: The aspiring tyrants of today have not forgotten the lessons of 1933: the acts of terror real or fake, provoked or accidental can provide the occasion to deal a death blow to democracy. America, under Donald Trump, is that tyrant of today. His promise to seek retribution against his enemies has escalated to the point of indicting James Comey, former FBI director. It seems that even James Comeys daughter, Maurene, a New York prosecutor, wasnt immune from Trumps Department of Justices pogroms. She was fired from her job in July. Her message after her firing was: Fear is the tool of the tyrant. Trumps attempt to weaponise all aspects of the American administration and make it bend to his will, using whatever means, is a worrying sign for all of his opponents. Christy Galligan, Letterkenny, Co Donegal Israels threats to Gaza aid flotilla need to be taken seriously given past acts The concerns expressed by organisers of the Global Sumud Flotilla to Gaza that its participants face an imminent and grave threat from Israeli forces should be taken seriously. Israels propensity to use lethal violence against civilians, including children, can be seen daily in Gaza and the West Bank, but, more specifically, it should be remembered that nine civilian activists were killed and another mortally wounded by Israeli naval commandos when they attacked a previous aid flotilla in international waters in May 2010. In that context, Israels current crude attempt to depict the Sumud flotilla as a Hamas endeavour can only be seen as setting the scene for a violent intervention. Tanaiste Simon Harris has correctly voiced his solidarity with the Irish people involved. As a matter of urgency, the Government should now be looking at what else it can do to help protect this unarmed flotilla. Israel has repeatedly shown it has no regard for international humanitarian law or for the lives of civilians. Doctors, nurses, journalists, ambulance drivers and aid workers have been among those killed in Gaza. Fintan Lane, Sifnos, Greece Government needs to give some clarity on housing plan after ESRI warnings The housing crisis has become more challenging as wages rise by 10pc in construction. This is based on the ESRI report that warns wages in construction are rising rapidly . The ESRI report refers to a potential overheating in the housing sector. I believe its incumbent on this administration to bring clarity on its housing policy see if its housing targets will be reached. John OBrien, Clonmel, Co Tipperary Canouan, a small island in the Caribbean, is where the worlds billionaires go to escape lowly millionaires, who seem to be ten a penny these days. Tucked away from prying eyes, the little-known sanctuary is famous for its emerald-green hills, turquoise waters and unspoilt beaches as well as just about every expensive excess one could desire. The dream began in the 1990s when Antonio Saladino, a wealthy Swiss-Italian banker, tried to build a home on the island of Mustique but was turned down by the local authority. Faced with the refusal, he did what any self-respecting billionaire would do and bought a nearby island, signing a 99-year lease for most of Canouan. His ambition was to make it even more luxurious and exclusive than Mustique, and he dreamed up the motto: Where the billionaires go to escape the millionaires. Irish financier Dermot Desmond and reclusive Italian bond trader Andrea Pignataro helped Saladino develop the island in the early 2000s, but all has not been well in paradise, with legal squabbles, in-fighting and unforgiving natural disasters threatening to destroy this deluxe hideaway. Today on The Indo Daily, Fionnan Sheahan is joined by Niamh Horan, journalist with the Sunday Independent, and Liam Collins, journalist with the Irish Independent, to discuss billionaires, beaches and bust-ups. This podcast was originally published on April 2025. An iconic Galway pub has won the Best Late Night Bar Award in the Connaught region at the Irish Pub Awards 2025. The Kings Head on Galways High Street is known as a landmark in the area, serving famous pints of Blood Red Ale and impeccable grub. The well-known pub has recently changed hands, with new owners the Linnane family taking over the premises on August 29. The Galway pub was owned and run by the Grealish family for 30 years, before the change of ownership in August and has been operational as a pub since 1867. The Kings Head is a true piecing of living history in Galway as the building dates back over 800 years, formerly used as the Mayor of Galways home in the 1600s, and is said to have got its name from its historic links to the execution of King Charles the first in 1649. The city centre pub is no stranger to awards wins and accolades - including being named Family Run Business of the Year at the 2023 Irish Women's Awards and winning Best Casual Dining in Galway at the 2019 Irish Restaurant Awards. The restaurant has also been celebrated for their sustainable seafood, winning the Sustainable Chowder Crown Award in 2024, and it was recognised as a finalist for Best Gastro Pub and Pub of the Year by Good Food Ireland in 2023. Acknowledging the award win on social media, the Kings Head said: Live music is our jam. Really delighted with this recognition and award win. The Galway city pub will have the chance to compete for the national best late night bar on November 12 at the Irish Pub Awards ceremony. The gala event will take place at the Mansion House in Dublin. Participants view a photo exhibition titled "Embracing a Shared Future: China's Initiatives and Global Contributions" at the World Intellectual Property Organization headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland, Sept. 25, 2025. (Xinhua/Lian Yi) by Xinhua writers Jiao Qian, Wang Qibing and Chen Junxia GENEVA, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- Decorated with vibrant lanterns, Chinese knots and other traditional Chinese elements, the hall of the headquarters of the World Intellectual Property Organization in Geneva, Switzerland, was bustling with a crowd of guests on Thursday evening. A photo exhibition titled "Embracing a Shared Future: China's Initiatives and Global Contributions" was held here, featuring 38 selected photos that vividly illustrate the wisdom and public goods contributed by China to global governance over the past decades. Guests from different countries and international organizations expressed their admiration and shared their thoughts. Noting that this year marks the 80th anniversary of the founding of the United Nations, they said the exhibition left them a deep impression as it showcased China's contributions from different perspectives. Standing in front of the photo capturing the moment of China's accession to the World Trade Organization (WTO) in 2001, Joaquim Pereira da Gama, trade counselor at the Permanent Mission of the Republic of Angola to the UN Office and other international organizations in Geneva, said he likes the picture because he believes China's accession to the WTO has brought benefits to the world. Sokheng Kong, counselor at the Permanent Mission of Cambodia to the WTO and other International Organizations (Economy and Trade) in Geneva, was drawn to an image from February 2024 showing Li Chenggang, then China's permanent representative to the WTO, attending the opening of the 12th China Round Table on WTO Accession in Abu Dhabi. He emphasized China's crucial role in upholding the multilateral trading system. "People understand that without China, the current system would collapse," he said, expressing hope for strengthened cooperation between China and other Global South countries. Randolph De Battista, ambassador of Malta, examined each photo and caption carefully along with his colleagues. "In these photos, we see that China has proposed a series of initiatives in support of multilateralism within the UN framework in New York and Geneva over the years. These initiatives resonate with us," he said. Petr Levchenko, a physicist at the European Organization for Nuclear Research, also known as CERN, has lived and worked in Geneva for over 30 years. He said he has witnessed China's rapid scientific and technological advancements and increasing contributions to the United Nations. Levchenko especially emphasized his appreciation for China's philosophy of safeguarding world peace. Alaa Mohamed Salaheldin Hegazy, permanent representative of Egypt to the UN Office at Geneva, has once served in Egypt's embassy in Beijing and was one of the first diplomats to receive Chinese language training in China. While gazing at a photo depicting China's participation in a UN Human Rights Council meeting, he said Egypt and China have been working closely at the UN Human Rights Council, with China, as a friendly country, consistently playing a very constructive role. Anastasia Toropova from the Permanent Mission of the Russian Federation to the United Nations Office and other international organizations in Geneva spoke highly of the theme of the exhibition. She said that the idea of a community with a shared future for humanity is a great initiative put forward by China. "China makes a lot of effort to make constructive input to the best of humanity," Toropova said. Co-organized by the Permanent Mission of China to the UN Office at Geneva and other international organizations in Switzerland and Xinhua News Agency, the exhibition centers on China's four global initiatives -- the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative, the Global Civilization Initiative and the Global Governance Initiative -- showcasing the Chinese approach to advancing the common progress of mankind. (250928) -- GENEVA, Sept. 28, 2025 (Xinhua) -- Participants view a photo exhibition titled "Embracing a Shared Future: China's Initiatives and Global Contributions" at the World Intellectual Property Organization headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland, Sept. 25, 2025. (Xinhua/Lian Yi) (250928) -- GENEVA, Sept. 28, 2025 (Xinhua) -- A participant views a photo exhibition titled "Embracing a Shared Future: China's Initiatives and Global Contributions" at the World Intellectual Property Organization headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland, Sept. 25, 2025. (Xinhua/Lian Yi) rsted Onshore Ireland is delighted to bring a solar energy project to Wexford after securing a 109 MW solar contract in the Irish Governments fifth onshore renewable energy support scheme (RESS5) auction. Based in Cork, rsted Onshore Ireland operates 21 onshore wind farms across the island of Ireland, with a multi-technology pipeline of further onshore wind farms, solar farms and energy storage facilities at various stages of development. The approved project is a solar development in Lodgewood, Wexford rsted's third solar project in three consecutive years to be awarded a government contract. Subject to final investment decision, the development is expected to be operational in 2028. A total of 18 solar projects were cleared in the auction, at an average strike price of EUR 98.81 per MWh. Commenting on the auction result, TJ Hunter, VP Onshore Ireland and UK, said: At 109 MW, Lodgewood marks our biggest solar development in Ireland to date with capacity to generate enough renewable power for over 34,000 homes, equal to every second home in County Wexford. In addition to Lodgewood, we currently have two solar farms under construction, and a strong near-term pipeline of solar at over 800 MW. If we are to ultimately achieve a secure energy supply for Ireland, solar energy is a fundamental piece of the jigsaw. We will continue to look at opportunities for solar projects in Ireland to help the government achieve its 2030 target of 8 GW of solar energy, he added. Lodgewood Solar Farm incorporates a community benefit fund of up to EUR 290,000 per annum once operational, and 20% of the site will be set aside for biodiversity measures. Earlier this year, rsted was also granted planning permission for a 72 MW 5-hour battery system positioned adjacent to the consented solar farm. rsted has a strong presence in solar technology across Ireland, with projects under construction in Garreenleen in Carlow and Ballinrea, Cork. Both are expected to be fully operational by 2026. In addition, rsted has 20 operational wind developments across the island of Ireland, generating enough clean energy to power the equivalent of 250,000 homes. A number of cases were heard at Wexford District Court recently, with Judge John Cheatle presiding. Among the cases was a Wexford man charged with criminal damage to a garda car window, and a motorist who claimed that she was holding an eye shadow palette and not a mobile phone, when stopped by gardai. Suspended sentence for Wexford man A young Wexford man entered pleas of guilty in relation to various offences. Kieran Bowe Walsh (24) of 48 Cois Mara, Rosslare, Wexford, plead guilty to a charge of criminal damage whereby on April 17 2023 while in the process of being conveyed to Wexford Garda Station Walsh headbutted the window of the garda car until it smashed. The accused also plead guilty to carrying a machete-type knife and tablets to the value of 600 discovered on his person when searched on July 14 2023. The accused is also charged with an assault at Rosslare on July 29 2023 where it is alleged that Walsh ran across a road and confronted the injured party, an altercation ensued where the man sustained injuries including a wound to his head and a bite on his back. Walsh is pleading not guilty to this offence. The court heard that Walsh has 29 previous convictions including a threat to kill and a production of an article during the course of a dispute for which he is serving a three year sentence. Edward King, solicitor for the accused, handed in a psychological report to the court prepared by Dr. Catherine Norton, neuropsychologist. Mr King said the can be summarised that Walsh is an example of the lack of care given to people suffering with ADHD and autism. Walsh was expelled from two preschools as a child and subsequently was placed into a school for children with profound needs who the accused begin mimicking. Mr King noted that his clients diagnoses causes him to act out and does not consider the consequences of his actions on others and himself. The solicitor stated his client appears to be in a cycle where he does quite well in prison with the supports provided for him but once released without these supports he finds himself committing further offences. Judge Cheatle imposed a ten-month sentence, suspended for 12 months on the condition that Walsh enters into a 12-month probation supervision bond. This suspended sentence is to commence once the sentence imposed by Wexford Circuit Court has completed in June 2026. The assault matter was then adjourned to February 9 2026 for hearing. Road traffic offences A man plead guilty to a charge of driving without insurance, driving without tax, and driving while disqualified. The court heard that Radu Rostas (36) of 26 Bewley Street, New Ross, Wexford, was observed driving a vehicle at Bewley Street on January 1 2025. Lana Doherty, solicitor for the accused, informed the court that on the day in question Rostas was simply moving the car as the window had been smashed and he intended to clean up the glass on the floor. The court heard that Rostas has 39 previous convictions, 26 of which are road traffic related resulting in a ten-year driving disqualification in 2020. Judge Chealte adjourned the matter to November 25 for a community service report, if suitable the defendant will carry out 120 hours in lieu of ten months imprisonment. Simon Bizau of 38 Hillbrook Woodss, Blanchardstown, Dublin, was fined 120 with three months to pay in relation to a speeding offence where the accused was travelling 89kmh on an 8km road in Barntown, Wexford on November 2 2023. Jonathan McGrath (38) of Ballydoonel, Mullinanone, Tipperary, was detected driving 117kmh on the New Ross Bypass which is a 100km road on April 3 2025. The vehicle being driven by McGrath was also untaxed. The court heard McGrath has four previous road traffic convictions dating back to 2015. Judge Cheatle imposed a 250 fine with five months to pay in relation to the charge of no tax. The court heard that Anthony Doyle of Cromwells Fort, Wexford, was driving a vehicle on which the tax had been expired for a period of two years. Doyle has no previous convictions. Judge Cheatle imposed a fine of 300 with six months to pay. A woman made admissions to driving while holding a mobile phone. Alice Murphy (64) of 6 Bawnmore Terrace, New Ross, Wexford, was observed holding a mobile phone while driving at Irishtown, New Ross, on March 2 2025. Judge Cheatle fined the accused 150 with three months to pay. Nicola OBrien (38) of 277 Ard Uisce, Wexford Town, Wexford, plead guilty to an offence of driving while holding a mobile phone at Bishopswater, Wexford, on March 19 2025. Judge Cheatle imposed a fine of 150 with three months to pay. Wexford Courthouse. Today's News in 90 Seconds - September 30th A Dublin woman plead not guilty to a charge of holding a mobile phone while driving. Garda Niall Brophy gave evidence to the court that on March 4 2025 at Clonard Little, Wexford, he observed Zara Noonan (37) of 66 St Assams Road, West, Raheny, Dublin, driving while holding a mobile phone. Noonan subsequently gave evidence that she was not holding a phone and was in fact holding an eye shadow palette. When asked if she informed Garda Brophy of this at the time of stopping the accused stated that she did not as she believed she was stopped for a mobile phone check and she did not understand what this was. Judge Cheatle did not accept that Garda Brophy had not explained the cause of stop in plain English and in those circumstances fined Noonan 120 with three months to pay. Johanna Connors of 2 Maconi Park, Enniscorthy, was fined in relation to an offence of parking in a disabled bay. Garda Kennedy gave evidence that on March 14 2025 at South Main Street, Wexford, the accused was parked in a disabled bay eating chips in the drivers seat. Judge Cheatle fined Connors 250 with four months to pay. Bench Warrants A bench warrant issued for Shane Smullen (34) of 97 Maher Road, Craigcullen, Carlow. Smullen is due before the court in relation to an alleged charge of possession of drugs at Rosslare Europort on April 17 2023. There was no appearance by the defendant. Funded by the Courts Reporting Scheme. With so much choice out there, our experts guide will help you keep things affordable and simple Unpopular opinion, but right now I believe beauty businesses are serving up a buffet of bland and boring products! While a lot of celebrity brands are popping up and disappearing faster than a magicians rabbit. The motto of more is more, even if its boring is taking over, so lets take a moment to reflect: Do we actually need another face cleanser cluttering our bathroom shelves? Seriously, how many ways can we scrub our faces? Its September, so back to skin school, folks! Lets cut through the BS and get back to the good stuff with a simplified skincare regime which can be better for your skin, as too many products can potentially irritate or dry it out. By using a pared-back routine, you can balance the skins natural oils and improve its hydration levels. So here are some suggestions for a simplified routine that will give you everything you need for a softer skin texture and glowing complexion. Bubble Soft Launch Hydrating Cream Cleanser (20, boots.ie) In a Bubble We could take the lead from my daughter Mini. Im instilling a simple routine in her even when shes bombarded everywhere with products that promise to do X, Y and Z. I like to borrow her Bubble Soft Launch Hydrating Cream Cleanser (20, boots.ie), which is great for young (and old) skin. Designed for dry skin and suitable for the most sensitive faces, it lathers into a soft, hydrating foam that cleans without leaving skin feeling stripped or dehydrated. The cleanser contains avocado oil to help nourish skin and reduce redness, and its naturally high content of vitamins and essential fatty acids helps to soften and moisturise. Voya Bio-Glow, 41, voya.ie Glow Baby The next step is a great toner and Irish skincare brand Voya has a new vegan-friendly, brightening toner, Voya Bio-Glow (41, voya.ie), which blends fruit acids, seaweed and hydration ingredients to exfoliate and protect. Enriched with aloe vera and sodium hyaluronate, the lightweight toner also delivers long-lasting hydration, plumps the skin, and soothes any signs of sensitivity. And, of course, Voyas signature fucus serratus seaweed extract helps protect against environmental stressors. Skin Rocks - The Moisturiser (72, arnotts.ie) Hydration Station Moisturising comes next and I find that Skin Rocks - The Moisturiser (72, arnotts.ie) is a great base for make-up, as it increases the skins smoothness, firmness and elasticity. The skin-conditioning and moisture-boosting formula helps to reinforce the skin barrier and increase water retention. Its lightweight with antioxidants to help protect the skin and is suitable for both day and evening. Ideal for all skin types, but particularly beneficial for those with sensitive skin. Dr Macks Perfecting Balm (22, drmacks.ie) Janey Mack! And not forgetting the guys. The Clare-based male hygiene brand, Dr Macks, has two core products that combine to provide a very effective simplified routine. Theres Dr Macks Cleaner (19.95, drmacks.ie), which comes in four different scents. It was designed specifically for the skin in the male genital area but is gentle enough to be used on the whole body. Then theres Dr Macks Perfecting Balm (22, drmacks.ie), a fragrance-free, multi-tasking balm that absorbs sweat, combats odour and soothes irritation. Skin Krushs Rejuvenating Clear and Calming LED Mask, 350, skinkrush.com Treat Mask moment The main question in my DMs is whether I rate LED masks and as I always say, they work but only if you commit to using them! I suggest Irish-based Skin Krushs Rejuvenating LED Mask and the Clear and Calming LED Mask (350, skinkrush.com). Each target specific skin concerns, with comfort being a crucial factor in the design. Treatment Ooodles of oxygen I think I have found the perfect combination of relaxing and result-based facials. The Pro Dermal Active O-Biome Oxygen Therapy (200, eavannabreen.ie) is designed to tackle the five biggest causes of skin ageing: collagen breakdown, sun damage, glycation (sugar damage), oxidation and inflammation. This treatment uses a combination of oxygen enzyme peels, custom activators and an oxygenating mask for a radiant complexion. Trick Earring endurance I love wearing statement earrings, but they can sometimes drag my ear lobes down and feel uncomfortable. I discovered that if you put a piece of plaster at the back of the hole in your ear and push the earring through it, it immediately stabilises the earring and makes it so more comfortable to wear. Its a game-changer if you want to dazzle everyone all night with your fancy earrings without having to take them out after an hour. As Israeli troops bear down, the healthcare system in Gaza City is coming under fire and being pushed toward collapse. Nearly two weeks into Israels latest ground offensive on Gazas largest city, two clinics were destroyed by airstrikes, two hospitals shut down after being damaged and others are barely functioning with medicine, equipment, food and fuel in short supply. An advert by a bar in the UK that showed Barney the dinosaur alongside the phrase T-wrecked has been banned for encouraging irresponsible and under-age drinking. The paid-for post by Mojo bar in Manchester appeared on Meta in May. It featured the purple childrens TV character with the text: One tequila, two tequila, three tequila, floor Barney. Elon Musk is named in latest Jeffrey Epstein file as being invited to sex offenders island X owners name appears on what seems to be the offenders daily schedule Elon Musk Casey Cooper-Fiske Press Association Sun 28 Sep 2025 at 06:30 Actor Natalie Dormer has said she will not promote TV show The Lady after it was revealed that Sarah Ferguson, the Duchess of York, apologised to paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein. Prosecution climbdown in the Vatican trial of the century as attempt to jail cardinal stalls Appeal follows Holy See losing 140m in suspect property deals in London Cardinal Becciu. Photo: Getty Paddy Agnew Sun 28 Sep 2025 at 06:30 Aristotle, Plato, Diogenes, Socrates and Saint Augustine must have enjoyed the scene. All five of them feature in splendid frescoes high on the walls of the Vaticans newest courthouse, high up above Bramantes 16th-century Cortile del Belvedere, well behind the Vatican walls and well beyond the reach of the tourist hordes. Colombian president Gustavo Petro addresses pro-Palestinian demonstrators at Dag Hammarskjold Plaza outside U.N. headquarters during the 80th United Nations General Assembly in New York City, September 26, 2025. REUTERS/Bing Guan Colombian president Gustavo Petro on Saturday dismissed the U.S. decision to revoke his visa and accused Washington of violating international law over his criticism of Israel's war in Gaza. The U.S. said on Friday it would revoke Petro's visa after he took to New York's streets on Friday to join a pro-Palestinian demonstration and urged U.S. soldiers to disobey President Donald Trump's orders. A man admitted during a television interview to killing his parents and burying them in the backyard of their upstate New York home eight years ago, then was arrested as he left the studio. The stunning on-camera confession from Lorenz Kraus (53) came on Thursday, a day after police say they recovered two bodies from the home in Albany as part of an investigation that found Kraus' parents, Franz and Theresia Kraus, were still receiving Social Security payments despite not having been seen or heard from in years. ( Image credit : Armoured vehicles roll into Portland after Donald Trump's troop deployment order | Credit: X | @nicksortor ) Epstein files cast a shadow over Trumps military move Lev Remembers ( Image credit : Donald Trump | Credit: X/MAGAVoice ) Trump is not just burying files; hes burying accountability The blog went on to mention the records that included: Steve Bannon was listed for breakfast with Epstein on February 16, 2019. Peter Thiel was scheduled for lunch with Epstein on November 27, 2017. A December 6, 2014, note: Elon Musk to island. Redditors discuss Trumps move to send troops to Portland ( Image credit : Redditors discuss Trumps move to send troops to Portland | Credit: Reddit | @matt73132 ) Tensions are escalating across the United States after President Donald Trump announced the deployment of the US military forces to Portland, Oregon, authorising full force, if necessary to protect federal immigration facilities from what he labelled domestic terrorists. The move sparked immediate backlash online, where viral posts on platforms like Reddit and X (formerly called Twitter) sparked conspiracy theories and accused the president of using military aggression to divert attention from newly released Epstein files, documents that reportedly expose key figures within Trumps inner circle. Lets find out more.Critics like Levre Members argue that Trumps deployment of military forces to Portland isnt just about quelling unrest but also about distracting from the bombshell revelations emerging from the Epstein files.While Trump plays dictator, turning ICE and the military on our own people and tearing at the very fabric of our Constitution, hes also running a shell game to hide what really scares him his kryptonite. And that kryptonite is the truth buried in the Epstein files, according to, a Substack podcast hosted by Lev Parnas, a businessman involved in the Ukraine scandal during Donald Trump's presidency.With new documents reportedly exposing links between Jeffrey Epstein and Trumps donors, operatives, and inner circle, observers claim the president is fighting to protect not just himself but the powerful network surrounding him. Moreover, these aren't mere rumours or speculations; they are verified schedules, flight manifests, and financial records directly from the Epstein estate, with names now laid out clearly in black and white, the report noted.These meetings occurred well after Epsteins 2007 conviction, when his criminal history was already public knowledge. Yet, many of those involved now sit within Trumps inner circle, shaping policy and funding his operations.Critics argue Trump isnt just hiding documents; hes evading accountability and working to suppress the truth, much like hes trying to suppress dissenting voices.As soon as the post surfaced on Reddit, it sparked public outrage. One user said, New files werent just from the Epstein estate and showed nothing new. Theres literally a picture of Elon with Maxwell. He knew then. Many people did. Its the FBI files that matter.Portland recently said it wanted to evict ICE from their HQ, and the Portland PD came out and said ICE was instigating things with the protesters, so theyre not playing ball with Washington, another added.One said, President Trump isnt in the Epstein files. Acrobats perform at the opening ceremony of the 20th China Wuqiao International Circus Festival in Wuqiao County, north China's Hebei Province, Sept. 28, 2025.(Xinhua/Mu Yu) SHIJIAZHUANG, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- The 20th China Wuqiao International Circus Festival opened Sunday in Wuqiao County, north China's Hebei Province, marking the first time the event's main activities have been held in the country's renowned "hometown of acrobatics." The festival features 28 acts from 19 countries and regions, competing for three Golden Lion, five Silver Lion and seven Bronze Lion awards. The closing ceremony is scheduled for Oct. 3, while related theme events will continue through Oct. 8, the last day of the upcoming eight-day National Day and Mid-Autumn Festival holiday. A special showcase of 12 top Chinese acrobatic programs funded in recent years by the China National Arts Fund was held on Sunday, highlighting achievements in domestic acrobatic art. Other activities include acrobatic exhibitions and a Grand Canal intangible cultural heritage display. Established in 1987 and held biennially, the festival is the biggest and most influential event in the field of acrobatics within China, as well as one of the nation's most extensive international artistic competitions and cultural festivals. The festival is regarded as one of the world's three major acrobatic competitions, alongside the International Circus Festival of Monte-Carlo in Monaco and the World Circus Festival of Tomorrow in Paris. Acrobats perform at the opening ceremony of the 20th China Wuqiao International Circus Festival in Wuqiao County, north China's Hebei Province, Sept. 28, 2025.(Xinhua/Mu Yu) This photo taken on Sept. 28, 2025 shows the opening ceremony of the 20th China Wuqiao International Circus Festival in Wuqiao County, north China's Hebei Province.(Xinhua/Mu Yu) Acrobats perform at the opening ceremony of the 20th China Wuqiao International Circus Festival in Wuqiao County, north China's Hebei Province, Sept. 28, 2025.(Xinhua/Mu Yu) Acrobats perform at the opening ceremony of the 20th China Wuqiao International Circus Festival in Wuqiao County, north China's Hebei Province, Sept. 28, 2025.(Xinhua/Mu Yu) Acrobats perform at the opening ceremony of the 20th China Wuqiao International Circus Festival in Wuqiao County, north China's Hebei Province, Sept. 28, 2025.(Xinhua/Mu Yu) Acrobats perform at the opening ceremony of the 20th China Wuqiao International Circus Festival in Wuqiao County, north China's Hebei Province, Sept. 28, 2025.(Xinhua/Mu Yu) Acrobats perform at the opening ceremony of the 20th China Wuqiao International Circus Festival in Wuqiao County, north China's Hebei Province, Sept. 28, 2025.(Xinhua/Mu Yu) Acrobats perform at the opening ceremony of the 20th China Wuqiao International Circus Festival in Wuqiao County, north China's Hebei Province, Sept. 28, 2025.(Xinhua/Mu Yu) Acrobats perform at the opening ceremony of the 20th China Wuqiao International Circus Festival in Wuqiao County, north China's Hebei Province, Sept. 28, 2025.(Xinhua/Mu Yu) Spotted last night on Webb Drive in #CityCentre, Mississauga. pic.twitter.com/z5n2kHHvmC 905HUB (@905hub_) September 27, 2025 Person who took the photo: As an immigrant of Indian descent who routinely strolls past this walkway with my family, I feel hurt by racism like this. The Canada I chose to immigrate to had a reputation of being a country of the nicest people on Gods green earth. But in my 3 905HUB (@905hub_) September 27, 2025 We are deeply disturbed by the hateful graffiti discovered next to a childrens Park in Mississauga with the words Indian Rats. This is not an isolated incident; it is part of a growing pattern of racism, intimidation, and Hinduphobia faced by Indo Canadians and Hindus https://t.co/z9OUTvgLO1pic.twitter.com/G5lnFIsLE5 CoHNA Canada (@CoHNACanada) September 27, 2025 A racist graffiti reading "Indian Rats" written near a children's park in Mississauga has sparked outrage among residents, especially Indo-Canadians. The incident has reignited concerns about rising hate crimes and racism in Canada, with many calling on Peel Police to take action and thus reassure the public.The Indian immigrant who took the photo said, "I feel hurt by racism like this" revealing that they "routinely strolls past this walkway with my family". Highlighting the episodes of racism they faced in last three years in Canada, he said that people at a superstore often assume that he works there, despite wearing "baby pink" attire instead of blue, which is the dress code of employees there." On 3 separate occasions, restaurants have mistakenly assumed Im there to collect Uber Eats delivery. Basic stores like Walmart have on multiple occasions stopped me for a random check on my shopping cart," they added. Ignoring these incidents for so long, they said, " Im starting to realize that its racism".The Council of Hindus of North America (CoHNA) Canada also reacted to "Indian Rats" graffiti found near children's park in Mississauga. It said that the incident " deeply disturbed" them and showcased "growing pattern of racism, intimidation, and Hinduphobia faced by Indo Canadians and Hindus across the country". It also urged Peel Police to take Immediate action to investigate this as a hate-motivated incident." WE ONCE AGAIN DEMAND RECOGNITION OF HINDUPHOBIA as a specific form of hate that needs urgent attention, alongside other forms of racism," it said in a statement.The incident has sparked outrage among Indians who think the racism in Canada is only increasing. " Find those culprits, contact their employers and demand them to fire them, file cases and make them appear in courts and make sure Indians are not going to be the soft targets," one of them commented. " Racism is wrong but people are frustrated by the mass immigration we had in this country, as an immigrant, I say its too much," added a user.The incident has become a big focus in the debate about racism and hate crimes in Canada, showing fears that Indo-Canadians are being targeted. Community leaders say quick action and stronger laws are needed to make people feel safe and rebuild trust. ( Image credit : Vijay in the rally | Credit: X - ANI ) Vijay video during chaos fuels outrage, arrest demands So inhuman.!! Joseph Vijay continued his speech despite ambulances rushing right infront of him.!!!? He's not a human, he's a satan.#Karurpic.twitter.com/fKghtysOFd Chandra (@Chandra4Bharat) September 27, 2025 30+ died in stampede during Joseph Vijay's political rally in Tamil Nadu. And this shameless continued his speech even after the ambulance arrived. pic.twitter.com/HHFMEBYA6N BALA (@erbmjha) September 27, 2025 He shamelessly ignored people literally dying around him and continued with this nonsense on mic. There are times when you have to stop and think what kind of demons and narcissistic animals are made Gods by us...#Karur#KarurStampedepic.twitter.com/10lngolUI8 Namita Balyan (@NamitaBalyan) September 27, 2025 Vijay reacts to in incident ( Image credit : Vijay during an event | Credit: X/ @hailKohli18 ) ; , . , . TVK Vijay (@TVKVijayHQ) September 27, 2025 Aftermath following the 39 deaths #WATCH | Karur, Tamil Nadu | On the Karur stampede, Tamil Nadu Health Secretary, P Senthil Kumar says, "A total of 95 people have been admitted to the hospital. Fifty-one are admitted to the Government Medical College and Hospital. Except for one, the others are stable. pic.twitter.com/qKxTKL8cZQ ANI (@ANI) September 28, 2025 Vijay arrived late ( Image credit : Vijay during an event | Credit: X / @AVinthehousee ) Amid calls for Vijays arrest, people recall the stampede at Allu Arjuns event Pushpa 2 At least 39 people, including 16 women and 10 children, were killed and dozens injured in a stampede at Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chief Vijays campaign rally in Karur, Tamil Nadu, on Saturday. The tragedy unfolded as the massive crowd, reportedly numbering over 60,000, surged uncontrollably, with many fainting due to suffocation in the overcrowded venue. The incident has sparked global outrage and intense scrutiny over crowd management, safety lapses, and the response of Vijay and local authorities. While some attendees recall Vijay pausing his speech at moments to urge the crowd to make space and even offering water to those in distress, a viral video now shows him continuing his address as people nearby struggled to remain standing.Since the incident, Vijay has faced criticism for leaving the venue quickly as the chaos unfolded and numerous people died. A video circulating on social media reportedly shows him addressing the crowd while some attendees struggled amid the stampede, with users claiming he appeared to ignore those in distress and ignoring the ambulances rushing by.Not only because of the video, but many are now questioning whether Vijay will face arrest for the incident and who will ultimately be held responsible for the tragedy.Vijay expressed his condolences and sympathy to the families of those who lost their lives in the Karur rally stampede in Tamil Nadu on Saturday.He shared on X, My heart is broken; I am in unbearable, indescribable pain and sorrow. I express my deepest sympathies and condolences to the families of my dear brothers and sisters who lost their lives in Karur. I pray for a speedy recovery for those who are undergoing treatment in the hospitalFollowing the tragic stampede at actor-turned-politician Vijay's rally in Karur, Tamil Nadu, on September 27, 2025, Chief Minister M.K. Stalin announced compensation for the victims families. He confirmed that 39 people, 13 men, 17 women, and 9 children, lost their lives, while 51 others were hospitalized, according to Reuters. In response, the Chief Minister stated that Rs 10 lakh would be given to the families of the deceased and 1 lakh to those injured. Furthermore, a one-man commission, headed by a retired High Court judge, has been appointed to investigate the incident.Several eyewitnesses reported that Vijay, who was scheduled to arrive in Karur by early afternoon, did not reach the venue until nearly six hours later. Quoting eyewitness Nanda Kumar, news agency ANI reported, Its hard to determine who is at fault. People came expecting Vijay on time; many were accompanied by children, were hungry, or faced difficult circumstances. Everyone came with the enthusiasm of wanting to see a star. This is deeply distressing. He further added that although adequate safety measures had been arranged, the crowd was ten to fifteen times larger than expected, which contributed to the tragedy.The tragic stampede at actor Allu Arjun'sscreening on December 4, 2024, at Hyderabads Sandhya Theatre claimed the life of 35-year-old M. Revathi and left her 8-year-old son, Sri Tej, critically injured. The chaos erupted when Allu Arjun made an unscheduled appearance, triggering a surge of fans that caused the theatres main gate to collapse and led to the stampede. In the aftermath, Allu Arjun was questioned by Hyderabad Police and subsequently arrested, though he was granted bail after spending one night in custody. Love's Ambition: What is the C-drama about? Loves Ambition ( Image credit : Zhao Lusi and William Chan in Love's Ambition | Credit: WeTV ) Fans share rave reviews of Love's Ambition ( Image credit : Fans are swooning over Zhao Lusi's stylish appearance | Credit: WeTV ) Love's Ambition episode 11 release date and time Loves Ambition September 29 9:30 AM IST Tencent Video ( Image credit : Love's Ambition episode 11 will release on September 28 | Credit: WeTV ) Pacific Time (PDT): September 28, 9:00 PM Eastern Time (EDT): September 29, 12:00 AM British Summer Time (BST): September 29, 5:00 AM Central European Summer Time (CEST): September 29, 6:00 AM China Standard Time (CST): September 29, 11:30 AM Japan Standard Time (JST): September 29, 12:30 PM Love's Ambition episode 11 release date and time: Zhao Lusi and William Chans new modern romance C-drama Love's Ambition has taken the internet by storm since its release. Premiering on September 26 on Tencent Video, the drama marks Lusis return to modern romance after the huge success of Hidden Love . Its also her first on-screen appearance following her health scare in December last year.The drama had been on hold due to differences between Lusi and her agency, which she publicly accused of financial exploitation and mental harassment. Thankfully, its finally here, and viewers are raving about it. So far, 10 of the 32 episodes have been released. Scroll ahead to find out the release date for episode 11 and everything else you need to know about the drama.follows the story of Xu Yan, played by Zhao Lusi, a successful and ambitious broadcaster who struggles to balance her career with her personal life. She crosses paths with Shen Haoming, portrayed by William Chan, an accomplished urban professional whose polished exterior hides a complex, controlling personality.As their lives intertwine, the two navigate misunderstandings, emotional conflicts, and societal expectations, all while trying to find a balance between ambition and love.The drama also features Wan Peng as Lin Qiao, Xu Yans supportive friend; Tang Xiaotian as Yu Yi Ming, a charming figure who challenges Shen Haomings hold over Xu Yan; and Guan Zijing as Lin Tao, adding layers of friendship, rivalry, and romance that intensify the story.Fans have been flooding social media with praise, calling Zhao Lusi and William Chans on-screen chemistry magnetic as they rave about the modern C-drama. Taking to the C/drama subreddit, one fan posted, "I love it. It doesn't feel like usual romance drama. It feels like a mix of romance, thriller, and drama. In some scenes I am anxious (panic attack), thinking, "will she be caught this time???", and in other scene i was like, "wow! Xu yan is stunning; wow, her clothes are awesome." in other scenes, I can feel what Xu Yan is feeling, and in other scenes I was like, "Hm, she is planning something," etc.Zhao Lusi's acting is great; the mother-in-law's acting is also great. When they both are in the same scene, sometimes I can feel the tension between them, and sometimes it makes me anxious.""i've watched until ep. 6 and absolutely love it!! Lusi's wardrobe is definitely killer!! everything is so pretty! yes the chemistry between the MCs is not 100% yet even though they're married, but because i've watched all the trailers, it's clear that the MMC knows all the FMC lies all along and has some secrets himself, so the tension & suspense is there despite their many physical affections. i think they both truly like each other, but not really to the point of love yet. can't wait for the divorce and MMC groveling era. also really curious about both the MCs end goals and why the relationship is mutually beneficial for them, esp from the MMC pov," another shared."Ive caught up with the first four episodes, and I have to say Zhao Lusi is excellent in this role. Her characters deceptive edge for survival, paired with her cold persona and the more mature makeup and style, really gives her the aura of a strong and nonchalant working woman. It also balances well with Williams presence. Their chemistry and personalities feel aligned. In fact, the show establishes them as a pair so quickly that the romance almost feels rushed. Were left relying on voiceovers to convince us of their feelings for each other, rather than truly seeing it develop onscreen. Still, it seems likely Williams character already knows her past, which could shape how the story unfolds later," mentioned a third.A fourth wrote, "I absolutely love the first few episodes. Its a perfect mix of fluff, camp and melodrama for me. I miss this kind of mellow makjang storyline in K-dramas. The costuming is amazing, and Im happy to find a modern CDrama with high production values."Check out more comments in the Reddit thread below:Episode 11 ofis set to release onaton. Check out the zone-wise release date and time below:International fans can also watch the new drama on Viki and WeTV. Lucknow Tent City : Facilities and Infrastructure 3,500 tents to accommodate participants from across India and abroad 64 community kitchens, 1,600 toilets, 100-bed hospital, and 15 dispensaries Dedicated team accommodation, Jamboree Market, exhibition halls, and meeting areas Plastic-free, green-energy zone with Wi-Fi, 24/7 control room, and helpline Groundbreaking Ceremony and Key Dignitaries Foundation stone to be laid by Finance Minister Suresh Khanna on September 29 Logo and mascot of the 19th National Jamboree to be unveiled Attendance of senior ministers including Yogendra Upadhyay, Sandeep Singh, Gulab Devi, and Dr. Mahendra Singh Adventure, Culture, and Learning Experiences Adventure activities: high ropes, ziplines, trekking, and Adventure Park Scouting skills: first aid, knot tying, and survival techniques Cultural performances: folk dances, drama, music, and Global Village exhibitions Robotics and science exhibitions to foster innovation and technology awareness Health, Safety, and Logistics 100-bed hospital and 15 dispensaries for medical support Round-the-clock security, medical, and logistical arrangements Dedicated team for sanitation, hygiene, and emergency response Significance and Historical Context First Jamboree in India: Hyderabad, 1953; last hosted in UP: Prayagraj, 1964 Yogi government brings event to UP after 61-year hiatus PM Modis participation emphasizes youth empowerment, discipline, and leadership Impact on Uttar Pradesh Showcases UPs capacity to host national and international events Opportunity to highlight youth development, adventure, and education initiatives Strengthens state tourism, hospitality, and cultural engagement Lucknow is gearing up for a historic milestone as the 19th Bharat Scouts and Guides National Jamboree returns to Uttar Pradesh after 61 years. The Yogi government is establishing a world-class Tent City at the Defence Expo Ground, set to accommodate over 35,000 Scouts and Guides. Preparations begin with a groundbreaking ceremony on September 29, where Cabinet Minister Suresh Khanna will lay the foundation stone, and the events logo and mascot will be unveiled.The Tent City will feature 3,500 tents, 64 kitchens, 1,600 toilets, a 100-bed hospital, and 15 dispensaries, alongside adventure, cultural, educational, and social service activities. Scheduled for November 2329, the Jamboree will be inaugurated by PM Modi, with the President presiding over the closing ceremony, highlighting UPs growing ability to host large-scale national events. Dearborn residents voice concerns about loudspeaker used by mosque ( Image credit : Dearborn residents voice concerns about loudspeaker used by mosque | Credit: X | @dom_lucre ) Post sparks social media outrage and online debate BREAKING: It is being reported that American Christians are forced to hear the Islamic call to prayer 5 times a day, from over 20 mosque In Dearborn, Michigan. pic.twitter.com/YQRZL03W6M Dom Lucre | Breaker of Narratives (@dom_lucre) September 27, 2025 City confirms the mosque's violent noise ordinance; decibel tests conducted ( Image credit : City confirms the mosque's violent noise ordinance | Credit: X | @dom_lucre ) Tensions are escalating in Dearborn, Michigan, as residents clash over a mosques use of an outdoor loudspeaker for the Islamic call to prayer. During a recent city council meeting, a local resident, Andrea Unger, submitted a petition opposing the noise, citing a city ordinance that bans unreasonably loud or disturbing sounds that disrupt public peace or safety. The mosque, located at the Dearborn Community Centre on Schaefer Road, has become the centre of a broader debate over religious freedom, noise regulations and neighbourhood standards. Amid this netizens' debate on religious freedom, let's find out more.On Sunday, a post on X (formerly called Twitter) surfaced on the platform, claiming that American Christians in Dearborn are "forced to hear the Islamic call to prayer five times a day from over 20 mosques," and has now gone viral, sparking intense online debate.The post reignited discussions around religious freedom, community tolerance and the limits of public expression. While some users expressed frustration over the volume and frequency of the calls, others defended the mosques right to practise their faith openly, pointing out that the call to prayer is a long-standing tradition in Muslim communities worldwide.As soon as the post surfaced on social media, it quickly went viral and sparked debate. One X user asked, Arent there noise ordinances theyre violating?So we start ringing church bells again.Either they abide by the rules like churches and their bells, or the ringing on Sundays, holidays, and special days like weddings starts again. Also, maybe Christians can pause, if you have time to complain, you have time to pray. We could all use the reminder. Stop fighting against things and use the model they use to show what you believe, one wrote.Another added, Im not concerned that mosques are blasting the call to prayer, they have freedom of religion all the same as other religions, but the 5am versions that the residents are complaining about are a concern. Churches of any religion should be good neighbors.One said, Christians should do the same.Play Christian music loud 5 times a day. Let's see what the government does. If they prohibit Christians, then sue for equal treatment.Christians should do the same and then let leftists take it to the Supreme Court and then apply that ruling to DearbornDuring Tuesdays city council meeting, Council President Mike Sareini revealed that police had conducted decibel tests at several mosques in Dearborn following noise complaints. He confirmed that at least one mosque was found to violate the citys noise ordinance.Under the ordinance, noise levels are restricted to 55 decibels at night and 60 during the day in residential zones. In commercial areas, the limits are 60 decibels at night and 65 during the day, while industrial zones allow up to 70 decibels at night and 75 during daytime hours.Additionally, loudspeaker use is strictly prohibited between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m. Mandy Teefey unhappy about Selena Gomezs marriage? ( Image credit : Mandy Teefey's seflie | Credit: Mandy Teefey - IG ) Wedding location guests and more ( Image credit : Selena Gomez wedding | Credit: Selena Gomez - IG ) Selena Gomez and Benny Blancos wedding photos The love story Selena Gomez and Benny Blancos love story developed over several years, evolving from professional collaborators to life partners. Their connection began in 2019 when they worked together on the hit song I Cant Get Enough alongside J Balvin and Tainy, with Selena appearing in the music video in a playful scene featuring Benny dressed as a teddy bear. Despite their creative chemistry, romance wasnt part of the picture at the time. ( Image credit : Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco | Credit: Benny - IG ) Their relationship took a romantic turn in July 2023, when Benny attended Selenas 31st birthday celebration. By December 2023, Selena confirmed their relationship on social media, expressing her deep affection for Benny. The couple got engaged in December 2024, with Benny proposing with a marquise-cut diamond ring. Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco recently celebrated their wedding, but reports suggest that her mom, Mandy Teefey, may not have been entirely happy with the event. While she reportedly has no issues with Benny himself, certain aspects of the ceremony or how it was organized are said to have allegedly upset her. The news has sparked curiosity and speculation among fans and the media. Heres what we know about the whole drama.An insider told the Daily Mail that Selena Gomezs mother and stepfather, Brian, were reportedly devastated when she chose not to have her mother walk her down the aisle at her wedding on Saturday. Instead, she opted for her grandfather, David Cornett, to give her away to Benny Blanco.The source added that David and his wife, Debbie, were moved to tears of joy when Selena asked him. The decision was reportedly made early in the wedding planning process.Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco tied the knot on September 27, 2025, in a private yet star-studded ceremony in Santa Barbara, California. The wedding was held at a cliffside estate in Montecito, surrounded by palm trees and lush greenery, providing a stunning backdrop for the couples nuptials. About 170 guests attended, including close friends and A-list celebrities such as Taylor Swift, Paris Hilton, Ed Sheeran, Paul Rudd, Martin Short, Steve Martin, and Ashley Park. Before the wedding, the couple celebrated with separate pre-wedding events, with Selena enjoying a bachelorette party in Cabo San Lucas and Benny hosting a bachelor celebration in Las Vegas.Selena Gomez and Benny Blancos wedding on September 27, 2025, was both elegant and intimate, captured in beautiful photos shared by the couple. Selena wore a custom Ralph Lauren gown with lace details, a structured bodice, and a flowing satin skirt, paired with diamond studs and a curled bob hairstyle. Benny Blanco looked sharp in a classic black tuxedo by Ralph Lauren. Their photos show sweet moments, including outdoor embraces and kisses, capturing the joy of their special day. UPs Budget and Investment Boom Budget size has grown 133% since 2018, reaching over 8 lakh crore. Investments of 15 lakh crore have come into UP due to improved law and order. The state is now revenue surplus with 59,000 crore surplus in 2024-25. FDI inflow in UP stands at 3,700 crore highest in India. Apps like Nivesh Mitra and Nivesh Sarathi simplify investor processes. Rising Exports and GST Relief Exports grew from 84,000 crore (pre-2014) to 1.76 lakh crore now. GST reforms are expected to benefit common people directly. UPs financial health now places it among top performing states. Appeal to Entrepreneurs and Banks Entrepreneurs are urged to maintain quality for global competitiveness. National banks asked to liberalize credit policies to improve CD ratio. Suggested introspection as private banks outperform in credit deployment. MSME Sector Driving Employment MSME Minister Rakesh Sachan called MSME the biggest employment generator after agriculture. 10 new trades recently added under the Vishwakarma Scheme. Over 7 lakh young entrepreneurs have applied for loans. Suggested MSME credit card facility similar to farmers credit cards. Emphasized banks role in supporting entrepreneurship for youth. Uttar Pradesh, once seen as a backward state, is now setting benchmarks in economic progress, security, and governance, said Finance Minister Suresh Khanna at the Transforming Financial Landscape in UP session during the UP International Trade Show. Khanna credited Chief Minister Yogi Adityanaths leadership for strengthening law and order, eliminating organized crime, and creating a safe environment for investors.He highlighted the states rapid economic transformation, pointing out that UPs budget size has grown from 3 lakh crore in 2018 to over 8 lakh crore today, while investments worth more than 15 lakh crore have been attracted. Khanna urged entrepreneurs to focus on product quality to make Indian goods global brands and called on nationalized banks to improve their credit-deposit (CD) ratio to boost financial inclusion. Entrepreneurs Express Gratitude for Global Market Access B2B Meetings Lead to MoUs and Business Growth Success Stories from Bulandshahr to Greater Noida Bulandshahr: Greater Noida: Greater Noida: Ease of Doing Business Fuels UPs Industrial Growth UPITS 2025: A Model for Industrial Expansion UPITS 2025, the Uttar Pradesh International Trade Show, has cemented the states position as a rising hub for global trade and industry. Under the leadership of CM Yogi Adityanath, entrepreneurs from across the state showcased their products, forged valuable partnerships, and secured international recognition. Through B2B meetings, participants connected with foreign buyers and signed MoUs that promise long-term collaborations and business expansion.Entrepreneurs expressed gratitude to the Yogi government for creating an ecosystem that encourages ease of doing business and provides global market access. From Bulandshahr to Greater Noida, success stories are resonating as entrepreneurs turn leads into tangible opportunities. The event highlights Uttar Pradeshs commitment to industrial growth, investor confidence, and its vision to make the state a model for business-friendly reforms in India.Participants praised the Yogi governments efforts to provide a platform where entrepreneurs can connect with international buyers and gain visibility for their products.Entrepreneurs held productive discussions with domestic and international buyers.Several MoUs were signed, creating opportunities for long-term trade relationships.B2B meetings are helping local businesses expand globally and strengthen their brands.Gaurav Gupta met foreign buyers and signed MoUs, calling the event very helpful.Vansh Dargan gained leads that will expand his business internationally.Yashs electrical products impressed overseas buyers and generated numerous leads.The Yogi governments investment-friendly policies, single-window clearance system, and focus on reducing red tape have boosted entrepreneurs confidence and attracted global investors to the state.Entrepreneurs are calling UPITS 2025 a game-changer that has given them a new identity, global exposure, and a strong foundation to scale their businesses. Women Entrepreneurs Shine at UPITS 2025 MoUs Pave the Way for International Recognition Ease of Doing Business Drives Growth Success Stories from Across the State Kanpur: Delhi-NCR: Greater Noida: Government Support and Vision UPITS 2025, the Uttar Pradesh International Trade Show, has emerged as a game-changer for women entrepreneurs, offering them a platform to gain confidence, secure international deals, and showcase their brands globally. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, the state government has implemented women-centric policies and simplified business procedures, making Uttar Pradesh a hub for trade and investment.Entrepreneurs from cities like Kanpur, Delhi-NCR, and Greater Noida have shared remarkable success stories, highlighting MoUs signed with international buyers. With initiatives supporting financial incentives, skill development, and market access, UPITS 2025 is proving that true women empowerment is rooted in economic self-reliance. The event not only promotes global business opportunities but also sets a benchmark for fostering entrepreneurship and inclusive growth across India.Women-led businesses across Uttar Pradesh showcased their products and services, drawing attention from both domestic and international buyers. Entrepreneurs reported overwhelming responses and lucrative deals, demonstrating the growing impact of women-centric government policies.Several women entrepreneurs signed Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with overseas companies. These agreements are expanding business horizons and bringing global exposure to small and medium enterprises.Uttar Pradeshs single-window clearance system, simplified investment procedures, and tailored incentives have created an enabling environment for women entrepreneurs. These reforms are accelerating business operations and enhancing investor confidence.Sangeeta Singh signed a $10,000 MoU with international buyers.Shruti Chandak expanded her brand globally.Rabeen Kaur received international leads and secured Mauritius-based deals.Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath emphasises that economic self-reliance is key to womens empowerment. Financial aid, skill development, and market access initiatives continue to create opportunities for scalable and sustainable growth. ( Image credit : Shooting near American fish company sparks chaos | Credit: X | @JamilKhabir396 ) Shooting near American fish company sparks chaos; suspect flees by boat Scally Wagandvaga Bond Active Shooter Southport NC 3 dead 2 airlifted Multiple other injuries shooting dinner patrons from boat in the Cape Fear River Alleged suspect is former military and a local resident, and in custody of USCG Suspects name is Nigel Edge @samtripoli@MonicaPerezShow@FoxNewspic.twitter.com/KjCBZQOTwa Andrew Peterson (@DrewsUnderwater) September 28, 2025 Who is Nigel Max Edge? ( Image credit : Edge is reportedly a local resident | Credit: X | @JamilKhabir396 ) ( Image credit : Nigel Max Edge | Credit: X | @DrewsUnderwater ) Suspect tied to civil rights lawsuits against government ( Image credit : Suspect tied to civil rights lawsuits against government | Credit: X | @InfoR00M ) In another shocking incident, a mass shooting took place at the Southport Yacht Basin in Brunswick County, North Carolina, leaving at least three people dead and eight others injured. As per reports, the incident took place when a boat pulled up along a marina in Southport, North Carolina, and opened fire. Meanwhile, some unverified social media posts have identified the alleged shooter as Nigel Edge. Lets find out who this individual is.According to, a single-engine white centre-console boat approached the area near the American Fish Company restaurant and opened fire on diners and bystanders in the bustling Brunswick County tourist spot. The incident occurred between 9 pm and 10 pm on September 27.Following the shooting, the suspect escaped via the Intracoastal Waterway heading toward Oak Island. Early reports indicate that a person, potentially the gunman, was apprehended shortly afterwards. However, officials have not officially identified the suspect or the person of interest yet, but online investigators claim to have identified the alleged shooter at Nigel Max Edge from Oak Island, NC. But who is he?A post on X (formerly called Twitter) revealed, "We have a suspect: Nigel Edge. @Asleep2000 conducted some sleuthing and used reverse image search to find a centre console boat linked to a residence connected to the suspect."Edge is reportedly a local resident, as per HT. Some witnesses also claim to have seen a dog onboard the boat from which the shots were fired. An image purportedly from Edges Facebook profile is circulating online, depicting him with a dog. Some reports suggest he recently changed his name from Sean DeBevoise.Additionally, a report released by the State Port Pilot, a local newspaper, noted that the suspects vessel had been stationary in the water for about an hour before the shooting took place. However, no confirmation has been made on the suspect yet by the authorities, and the information is just based on social media claims.A deeper search on social media uncovered the Facebook account of Nigel Max Edge (https://www.facebook.com/nigel.edge.2025 ), where he has shared details about recent legal actions.Social media reports indicate that Nigel Edge is involved in several lawsuits against the US government, the local sheriffs department, and others, accusing them of civil rights violations.According to Grok, Edge has filed multiple pro se lawsuits in the U.S. District Court (E.D.N.C.), mainly alleging civil rights violations under 42 U.S.C. 1983. BOGOTA, Sept. 27 (Xinhua) -- Colombian President Gustavo Petro said Saturday that the U.S. decision to revoke his visa underscores that New York may no longer be a suitable host for the United Nations headquarters. The U.S. decision violated the principle of immunity that underpins the United Nations, said Petro, while calling for respect for international law. On Friday, Petro joined a pro-Palestinian demonstration outside the UN headquarters in New York, where he urged U.S. soldiers not to turn their weapons against humanity. "Disobey Trump's orders! Obey the orders of humanity!" he said. In response, the U.S. State Department said on the same day on social media that "we will revoke Petro's visa due to his reckless and incendiary actions." On Saturday, Petro said on social media that he no longer holds a U.S. visa, adding "I don't care." "There is total immunity for presidents who attend the (UN General) Assembly," he wrote on X. The Colombian president also criticized Washington for preventing Palestinian representatives from attending the UN General Assembly and renewed his call for the international community to stop the humanitarian disaster in Gaza. "Denying entry to the Palestinian Authority and revoking my visa for asking the U.S. and Israeli armies not to support genocide, which is a crime against humanity as a whole, shows the U.S. government no longer complies with international law," he said. Petro further urged U.S. President Donald Trump to reconsider his support for Israel's military actions in Gaza, saying the United States can not achieve greatness "by killing defenseless babies." Who is Susanna DeSilva, and why is she going viral? EXCLUSIVE: Ive identified the individual with a MAKE ASSASSlNATIONS GREAT AGAIN bumper sticker (posted by TPUSAs @AndrewKolvet) as 32 y/o radical LGBTQ activist named Susanna DeSilva of Topsham, Maine Susanna, who now goes by Ray DeSilva, was born female, owns a pic.twitter.com/0dPEsZSL2O Nick Sortor (@nicksortor) September 28, 2025 32-year-old radical LGBTQ activist named Susanna DeSilva from Topsham, Maine, with a MAKE ASSASSINATIONS GREAT AGAIN bumper sticker. Make them famous. #FBIpic.twitter.com/WOFk9Se6Az GoodMorningRooster (@RoosterGM) September 28, 2025 How did the internet react to the development? Political tensions in the United States have escalated following the death of right-wing influencer and Donald Trump ally Charlie Kirk, who was killed during an event at Utah Valley University. While conservatives mourned the loss of the 32-year-old, some groups, allegedly aligned with leftist circles, were seen celebrating the assassination.Amid the heated climate, a car displaying a bumper sticker that readwas recently spotted. Internet users quickly traced the vehicle back to Susanna DeSilva, who has been identified online as an LGBTQ activist. The discovery has triggered fresh outrage across social media, and according to online reports, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security is currently investigating the matter.Andrew Kolvet, executive producer of, recently shared a photo of a red car bearing a bumper sticker that readThe slogan, a spin on Donald Trumpsappeared to mock the murder of Charlie Kirk, who was fatally shot in the neck on September 10, 2025, during an event at Utah Valley University.The image sparked outrage online, with fans of the late right-wing influencer quickly turning into digital detectives to uncover the car owners identity. Several users have claimed the vehicle belongs to someone named Susanna DeSilva, also known as Ray DeSilva.According to social media commentator Nick Sortor, who has more than one million followers on X, Ray DeSilva is a 32-year-old LGBTQ activist from Topsham, Maine. Sortor alleged that DeSilva, who was born female and now identifies as Ray, co-owns a restaurant called Fishnet Cafe on Bailey Island with her wife, Ashley. He further claimed that he reported the matter to the Department of Homeland Security, which, according to him, confirmed an investigation into DeSilva is underway.One user wrote, "These sick people need to be stopped before more lives are lost. Great reporting, Nick!" "There is an epidemic of violence coming from these people. It's SICK," said another."The issue is not just the complete rot of the soul but also of the brain. If assassinations become the norm and both sides take it as something good, does she really think the people with the guns are going to be the ones being assassinated?" I hope she heals her soul and also starts thinking," one X user pointed out.One individual noted, "If this is accurate, that is a very serious situation. Publicly advocating for violence, no matter the political side, crosses a dangerous line and should absolutely be investigated. That said, we should also be careful to let the authorities handle it. Online mobs can sometimes target the wrong person and make things worse. Accountability is important, but so is due process. CM Yogis Call for Peace and Restraint Criticised those who disrupt social harmony. Said arrogance and exploitation go against Indias spiritual values. Recalled teachings of Lord Ram and Lord Krishna about protecting righteousness and removing evil. Inauguration of Digambar Jain Temple Performed darshan, aarti, and worship at the new temple. Paid tribute to the tradition of 24 Jain Tirthankaras. Highlighted that 16 Tirthankaras incarnated in Uttar Pradesh. Link to Ayodhyas Heritage Mentioned Lord Rishabhdev as Ayodhyas first king. Cited the lineage leading to Lord Ram and King Lav, who made Shravasti the capital. Said the state will honour heritage while ensuring security. New Uttar Pradesh Vision Declared UP a land of festivals, not disturbances. Promised respect and safety for every citizen. Warned that the government will act strictly against those disturbing peace. Jain Tradition and Indian Values Spoke about Jainisms focus on meditation, penance, and restraint. Praised saints and followers for preserving the tradition. Said all religious paths may differ but lead to the same ultimate goal. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, during his visit to Shravasti, inaugurated the newly built temple at the Digambar Jain Temple complex and used the occasion to call for peace, discipline, and respect for tradition. He criticised those who disturb social harmony, saying such acts reflect arrogance and disregard for timeless values taught by Lord Ram and Lord Krishna.The CM emphasised that Uttar Pradesh has transformed into a land of festivals and will not tolerate exploitation or unrest. He linked the states rich spiritual heritage to Indias larger Sanatan tradition, praising the contribution of Jainism and its focus on restraint, penance, and welfare. The event highlighted both the governments commitment to cultural preservation and its firm stance on maintaining law and order. Staff members load flood relief supplies provided by the Chinese government to Pakistan at Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport in Zhengzhou, central China's Henan Province, Sept. 27, 2025. The first batch of emergency flood relief supplies provided by the Chinese government to Pakistan was dispatched from central China's Zhengzhou on Sunday, according to the Chinese Air Force. Two Y-20 transport aircraft delivered the supplies, including tents and blankets, to Islamabad, Pakistan's capital. (Xinhua/Hao Yuan) BEIJING, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- The first batch of emergency flood relief supplies provided by the Chinese government to Pakistan was dispatched from central China's Zhengzhou on Sunday, according to the Chinese Air Force. Two Y-20 transport aircraft delivered the supplies, including tents and blankets, to Islamabad, Pakistan's capital. Pakistan has suffered from severe floods since June, resulting in heavy casualties and property damage. In response, China provided Pakistan with 2 million U.S. dollars in emergency assistance. To further support Pakistan's post-flood reconstruction, the Chinese government has decided to provide an additional 100 million yuan (about 14 million U.S. dollars) worth of emergency flood relief supplies. The remaining supplies are now being urgently prepared and will be shipped in the coming days. Staff members prepare to load flood relief supplies provided by the Chinese government to Pakistan at Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport in Zhengzhou, central China's Henan Province, Sept. 27, 2025. The first batch of emergency flood relief supplies provided by the Chinese government to Pakistan was dispatched from central China's Zhengzhou on Sunday, according to the Chinese Air Force. Two Y-20 transport aircraft delivered the supplies, including tents and blankets, to Islamabad, Pakistan's capital. (Xinhua/Hao Yuan) Staff members load flood relief supplies provided by the Chinese government to Pakistan at Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport in Zhengzhou, central China's Henan Province, Sept. 27, 2025. The first batch of emergency flood relief supplies provided by the Chinese government to Pakistan was dispatched from central China's Zhengzhou on Sunday, according to the Chinese Air Force. Two Y-20 transport aircraft delivered the supplies, including tents and blankets, to Islamabad, Pakistan's capital. (Xinhua/Hao Yuan) Staff members load flood relief supplies provided by the Chinese government to Pakistan at Zhengzhou Xinzheng International Airport in Zhengzhou, central China's Henan Province, Sept. 27, 2025. The first batch of emergency flood relief supplies provided by the Chinese government to Pakistan was dispatched from central China's Zhengzhou on Sunday, according to the Chinese Air Force. Two Y-20 transport aircraft delivered the supplies, including tents and blankets, to Islamabad, Pakistan's capital. (Xinhua/Hao Yuan) When does a metronome become a work of art? When you add a paper cutout of an eye to its pendulum bar. Thats what Philadelphia-born artist Man Ray decided to do in 1923; transforming an everyday commercial object into a sculpture, a ready made piece. It was Rays close friend, the provocative French artist Marcel Duchamp, who coined the phrase and popularized the medium in the 1910s to criticize the art industry through avant-garde works, like his famous urinal (Fountain). Advertisement South Philadelphia-born Rays sculpture was not as flashy or vulgar, but took on a mythic story of its own. Named Object to Be Destroyed, the watchful metronome ticked at a steady pace in Rays Parisian studio (he moved in 1921) as he painted because, he later explained, a painter needs an audience. Later, in a bout of creative frustration, Ray could no longer bear the surveillance, so he fulfilled the titles promise and, in his words, smashed it to pieces. It wouldnt be the first time Rays metronome was destroyed. In 1957, art students took the sculpture from a gallery and reportedly shot it with a pistol. Over time, the cycle of creation and destruction became part of a larger point that the idea of the artwork could never truly be erased. So he renamed it Indestructible Object. A century later, that remains true: Rays metronome replicas appear in several collections, including in that of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, which will display the artwork as part of the forthcoming exhibit, Dreamworld: Surrealism at 100, opening Nov. 8. Philadelphia is the only U.S. city to host the touring show, which began in Brussels, Belgium, last year and has since stopped in Paris, Madrid, and Hamburg, Germany. More than 60 artists are featured in the sweeping retrospective, including big names like Duchamp, Ray, Dali, and Picasso, as well as lesser-known artists like Czech painter Toyen and Cuban artist Wifredo Lam. The Philadelphia show has a particular focus on exiled artists who fled Europe during World War II and continued to practice from Mexico, the Caribbean, and New York. Surrealism was first articulated as an artistic and literary movement in 1924 (hence the centenary) by Andre Breton, who believed that imagination was essential to ones life and liberation. Surrealist expression melds whats real and whats fantasy. A lobster replaces a telephone to become Dalis Aphrodisiac Telephone. Look closer, and a robe made of fabric looks like branches of small bodies in Dorothea Tannings Birthday. Long before artificial intelligence took over our timelines with derivative digital slop, Surrealists spent hours crafting artworks of absurdity for a purpose, showcasing their most outlandish thoughts to reveal unexpected truths. Surrealism was not an art movement and not a movement in literature, although we think of it that way. It was a philosophy of life all about revolt against the status quo and, at the same time, reimagining the way things might be, said Matthew Affron, Muriel and Philip Berman curator of modern art at PMA. It wants to make you uncomfortable in a good way, to change your frame of reference, to change your way of seeing the world and yourself, to shock you out of mental reference points. While Philadelphia itself was not a key site for the Surrealist movement historically, the Art Museum has become a focal point for Surrealist art collections, due in large part to former director Fiske Kimball, who beat out other museums to secure major acquisitions from Albert E. Gallatin and Louise and Walter Arensbergs collections in the 1950s. It was the Arensbergs holdings that led to the Art Museums status today as the repository for the worlds largest collection of Duchamp works. Kimballs efforts were prescient, too. Though we think of many of the artists whose works are in the Arensberg collection as museum artists today, in 1950, it was not obvious to everyone that these would be lasting figures not everyone agreed that they would be important forever, said Affron. Duchamp, everyone can agree now, became one of the most influential artists of the 20th century. So when Man Ray met him in 1915 at an artist colony in Ridgefield, N.J. (thanks to Walter Arensberg), it changed the trajectory of his life. Ray was born in Philadelphia in 1890 with the name Emmanuel Radnitzky, the son of a tailor and a seamstress, both Jewish immigrants from Russia. According to Rays 1976 obituary in The Inquirer, the family lived at 418 Carpenter St. in South Philadelphia until Ray was 7 and then moved to Brooklyn. After meeting Duchamp, Ray went on to become one of the sole Americans in the burgeoning Surrealist scene in Paris, where he pioneered a cameraless photographic technique called the Rayograph and experimented with film (his 1923 work Return to Reason will also be on view). Some of his most recognized works depicted former lovers and muses. Ray photographed French model Alice Prin, aka Kiki de Montparnasse, in the nude to create Le Violon dIngres (1924), which set a record in 2022 as the most expensive photograph sold at auction for $12.4 million. The metronome, too, became emblematic of another relationship; with renowned photographer Lee Miller. Following their devastating breakup in 1932, the heartbroken artist put an image of her eye on the pendulum. That same year, in an art journal, he invited others to make their own, with instructions: Cut out the eye from a photograph of one who has been loved but is seen no more. Attach the eye to the pendulum of a metronome and regulate the weight to suit the tempo desired. Keep going to the limit of endurance. With a hammer well-aimed, try to destroy the whole at a single blow. Despite his international fame, Ray did not receive as much recognition at home. The Inquirer obituary called him an artistic prophet without sufficient honor in his own country. Soon, audiences in Philadelphia will be able to give him a proper homecoming. No destruction required (or allowed). Dreamworld: Surrealism at 100 runs Nov. 8 through Feb. 16 at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, 2600 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, 215-763-8100 or philamuseum.org. Cam'Ron Klotz at Cooper Medical School of Rowan University, in Camden N.J., Aug. 26, 2025. Read more Camron Klotz had a rough start to the first year of education toward his childhood dream of becoming a doctor. Klotz was late arriving to Charles E. Brimm Medical Arts High School in Camden most mornings because he had to ready his younger siblings for school before getting himself to class. He was flunking first-period health and physical education as a result. Advertisement After a stern warning from his teacher, Karen Borrelli, Klotz buckled down. He graduated at the top of his class in 2018. I took the challenge and said I was going to be the best, he recalled in a recent interview. I didnt want to fail. Now, Klotz has embarked on another step in his journey to pursue his dream. He is a first-year medical student at Cooper Medical School of Rowan University in Camden. Hes an amazing young man, said his mentor, Brian McCauley, a cardiologist at Reading Hospital. I think he will be able to provide inspiring care. Nothing we accomplish is done alone A first-generation college graduate, Klotz credits his success to a village of supporters and hopes his story will inspire and encourage other Camden youngsters to get an education. He also wants to be a role model for his 10 younger siblings. Klotzs journey began when he was a sixth grader at the Riletta T. Cream Elementary School. Along with his best friend, Jeremiah Garcia, Klotz attended an after-school tutoring program started by McCauley, then a Cooper medical student, in 2012. Both wanted to become doctors. We wanted to stand out. We wanted to be the example, Garcia said. Even though we come from Camden, we can still persevere. McCauley recruited other medical students to help, and the program expanded. Besides helping with homework, they added a reading program and provided healthy meals. The experience resonated with Klotz, now 25. I thought, I want to be one of them one day, he said. That really set me off. Klotz and Garcia showed up faithfully, and McCauley took both under his wing. He kept in touch with Klotz over the years and McCauley wrote his medical school recommendation and purchased a suit for his admissions interview. Hes more than anyone else ever could be, McCauley said. Having a doctor like him is going to help so many people. READ MORE: From juvenile delinquent to Juris Doctor: Camden woman keeps her promise to the judge who gave her a break 12 years ago Klotz grew up in the citys Centerville neighborhood, raised by a single mother, Maria Navarro. He was inspired to pursue medicine by her career as a home health aide. She really made an effort to really get to know them, be there for them when no one else was there, he said. For me, personally, I enjoy that and I enjoy giving back. Navarro, 45, said she, too, had aspired to become a doctor. She had her son at 19, and tried to instill in Camron a caring spirit. Its like God has a sense of humor. He will use your children to carry out your dreams, she said. Im just amazed at the man he has become. As the eldest, Klotz was a nurturer for his siblings. His father spent half his life in jail for drug and weapon offenses. His paternal grandfather stood in the gap. While attending Brimm, Klotz worked part-time to help support his family. After his rocky start freshman year, he rebounded academically, telling Borrelli, Im going to be the best student you ever had, his former teacher recalled. He was one of the smartest kids that ever attended Brimm, one of two magnet schools in Camden, Borrelli said. Klotz took AP classes and earned 12 college credits. In his valedictorian speech, he thanked Borrelli, his mother, and teachers and mentors who helped him. Nothing we accomplish is done alone, he said in the speech, a sentiment that he would recall regularly during tough times. Im good enough Klotz enrolled in Rowan University along with Garcia, his best friend since second grade. Garcia switched majors sophomore year from premed to psychology. A biochemistry major, Klotz had a rough transition. He felt out of place at Rowan, where he was often the only student of color in some classes. His GPA dropped from 4.0 to 2.4 Then he had an epiphany. He stopped worrying about whether his classmates were smarter or whether they liked him. Im good enough. I belong here, he recalled thinking. READ MORE: Mother in jail, Camden student vows 'no choice but to succeed' Klotz and Garcia graduated from Rowan in 2022 and, for the first time, went their separate ways. Klotz enrolled in the University of Pennsylvania to obtain a masters in public health, and Garcia got his graduate degree at Rowan. After working for three years at a nonprofit in Camden, Klotz began thinking about medical school. He scored poorly on the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) the first time. His adviser discouraged him from trying again. It felt impossible, he said. You could literally give up. He took the exam again a year later and his score improved. He was accepted at Cooper Medical School and Rowan-Virtua School of Osteopathic Medicine. I cried, he said simply. A white coat and a stethoscope In August, Klotz and 117 others donned white coats in a ceremony at Cooper, marking their official entry into the medical profession. He is among the oldest students in the class, scheduled to graduate in 2029. Klotz was disappointed that his mother was unable to attend the ceremony. But his village was there: his paternal grandfather, Charles Klotz Sr.; his girlfriend, Ashley Floyd, a third-year medical student; Borrelli; and Garcia. He worked hard all the time and always said he wanted to be a doctor, said Winona Wigfar, who mentored Klotz in Rowans CHAMP/GEAR UP enrichment program. Im so proud of him." Klotz plans to pursue pediatric or emergency medicine. His mentor, Susana D. Collazo, a Brimm alum and a pediatric attending physician at Cooper, sees a promising future. Hes going to become a very kind, committed, and compassionate physician, Collazo said. This is his calling. The Iron Hill Brewery along Kings Highway in Maple Shade is now permanently closed. Read more Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurants abrupt closing of all locations leaves gift card holders mostly out of luck. Iron Hill announced on Sept. 25 at 9:45 a.m. that it was closing all 16 of its locations and also filing for bankruptcy. This comes just two weeks after three locations in Newark, Pennsylvania and New Jersey were suddenly closed on Sept. 10. Advertisement As employees and customers scramble in the aftermath, many may wonder what will happen to their gift cards. I feel for all the people who just won $500 gift cards in the Oktoberfest promo, what a rug pull! one Reddit user commented on a post about Iron Hills closure. Iron Hill representatives have not responded to questions from Delaware Online/The News Journal about the news or what will happen to gift cards. Referring to similar situations in the past, the issue of customer gift cards during a bankruptcy filing pertains to a very complex area of law, said Mat Marshall, spokesperson for the Office of the Attorney General in the Delaware Department of Justice. People with gift cards are considered creditors for the purposes of the bankruptcy process and can file proof of claim to try and receive a refund out of the companys assets. While a pathway to file a claim is available, gift cards are considered unsecured debt, which places cardholders as the lowest priority among the companys list of creditors. Those with gift cards are unlikely to receive a full refund, if they are reimbursed at all. Got a tip or a story idea? Contact Krystal Griffin at kgriffin@delawareonline.com. This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Got an Iron Hill gift card still? Heres what will happen after the bankruptcy filing Reporting by Krystal Griffin, Delaware News Journal / Delaware News Journal USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect Innovation and inspirations for designs lie in every corner and moment of life, crossing national, cultural and functional boundaries, according to designers and experts at the World Design Cities Conference (WDCC) 2025. The Des Moines, Iowa, school superintendent detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement last week, was cited in Pennsylvania in 2022 for having a loaded firearm in a vehicle, court documents show. Ian Roberts was serving as superintendent of Millcreek Township School District at the time, and paid a $100 fine plus court costs for the citation. Roberts was detained by ICE on Sept. 26, because the agency said he had an active deportation order and was not authorized to work in the United States. Roberts is a former Olympic athlete from Guyana. Advertisement It is unclear how Roberts may have slipped through school vetting processes not just in Iowa, but also in Erie County, Pennsylvania, where he served as Millcreek Townships superintendent from 2020 to 2023. Alfredo Parrish, a lawyer representing Roberts, said in a brief phone call Sunday that he was poring through court documents related to the citation. He declined to comment on how or if the citation may be related to Roberts detention. I have not had an opportunity to review the entire documents, he said. Often its good to look at everything to see how things ended up being resolved I just dont know at this point. Parrish said he spoke with Roberts earlier Sunday and the superintendents spirit was good and he sounded strong. Parrish called Roberts a blessing to the educational community in Des Moines. ICE arrest Roberts came to the U.S. on a student visa in 1999, a news release from ICE said. In May 2024, an immigration judge gave him a final order of removal. According to ICE, officers approached Roberts in Iowa while he was in his vehicle on Sept. 26, but he drove away. He was later arrested with assistance from state police, the release said. ICE officials said that Roberts had a loaded handgun, $3,000, and a hunting knife. Iowa does not require permits to carry handguns, according to the National Rifle Association, and even has special educator permits that allow teachers to carry guns in schools. But while noncitizens who are legally in the U.S. are allowed to purchase firearms, according to the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), there are several exceptions to the rule. Once a person has illegal status even if they overstayed a visa or temporary status they are barred from possessing a firearm under U.S. law, according to the Washington-based National Security Law Firm. ICE said in its news release that the investigation was being turned over to the ATF. An incident in Erie, Pa. After the 2022 incident in Erie, Roberts said he was a seasoned hunter who was out deer hunting when a Pennsylvania Game Commission officer stopped him to ask questions about a nearby gun range that had been the site of safety violations, GoErie reported at the time. Roberts said that during their conversation, he laid his hunting rifle on the backseat of his vehicle, but was then cited. At the time, Roberts, who is Black, said on social media that he wondered if race played a role in him receiving the citation. Although I may not appear to be the type of man who would enjoy deer season in Pennsylvania, in fact, I am and have been hunting for more than 20 years, Roberts said in the news report. Roberts ICE arrest has led to a mix of reactions from educators and other colleagues. Des Moines Public School Board chair Jackie Norris said the school had been unaware of any citizenship or immigration issues that Dr. Roberts may have been facing, the New York Times reported. The accusations ICE has made against Dr. Roberts are very serious, and we are taking them very seriously. Norris said Roberts listed himself as a U.S. citizen on his application for a superintendent license. The 47 bus passes by on the street behind Eddy Alfaro, Martin Alfaro, and Kyle Taveira, who came to paint and make flowers for the float of La Guagua 47, which is being prepared at the Taller Puertorriqueno on Saturday ahead of the annual Puerto Rican Day Parade in Philadelphia. La Guagua 47, which translates to the 47 bus in English, is an autobiographical story written by Alba Martinez, made into a short film thats now being turned into musical about a young Latina moving to Philadelphia and struggling to find her community in the city she now calls home. Read more When Alba Martinez first came to Philly, in 1985, she encountered the kind of heartbreak that speaks to the human experience: She felt like she was drowning of loneliness in an ocean of people. The Puerto Rico native found community through SEPTAs Route 47 bus, and her story was told in a 2022 film named after the route. Three years later, La Guagua 47 guagua is a word for bus in Puerto Rican Spanish is turning into a musical, with a 32-foot float and two of the songs from the forthcoming show to be featured in Sundays Puerto Rican Day Parade. Advertisement Unlike the film, the musical wont focus just on Martinezs journey. The main character is Lucia, a 14-year-old girl who leaves her home in Puerto Rico with her father to join her mother in Philadelphia. Feeling a lack of belonging, Lucia isolates herself watching the days pass on her aunts couch. Her aunt says, Enough is enough, all you know is the UPS guy and the sofa, and sends her on a journey on the 47 bus as she tries to answer: Will I ever belong here? said Martinez, who quit her position as commerce director for the Parker administration in March to produce the musical. This is a universal story, not just a Latino story. It is a belonging story. To make the float come to life, community members gathered at Taller Puertorriqueno on Saturday, making paper flowers, talking, painting, and listening to salsa music in a room that smelled like freshly cooked rice and chicken. With his hands covered in green paint, muralist Cesar Viveros, 57, said he felt a sense of togetherness at a time when, he said, immigrants and Latinos are experiencing a form of otherness. Representation matters, Viveros said. Having the space to go with something so big, so colorful, is making a statement that even when politics divides us, art can bring us together. The float will feature two 12-foot mobile murals painted by Viveros and other local artists, with help from more than 100 community members, to represent the story of La Guagua 47: The Musical. Karina Hirschfield, 53, has spent the last two weekends driving an hour from Phoenixville to Philadelphia to help prepare the float. As an Ecuadorian immigrant, Hirschfield said, she can relate to the feeling of wanting to belong in a new place. But, as a school counselor, she wanted to show her students the power of community. I wanted them to know that even though we are living through some challenging times, you are not alone. There are people that care: Connect with those people, Hirschfield said. The need for community also drove Tyler Rocio Econa, who uses the pronouns they and she, to become the musicals dramaturge and the productions manager of community engagement. Much like Martinez, the Virginia native struggled to find Philadelphias Latino community after moving to the city in 2019 for college. Once the University of the Arts shut down, their need to feel a sense of belonging heightened. My school community had suddenly dissolved. I had to be intentional about finding my people, Rocio Econa said. Its not as if Philadelphia doesnt have a strong Latino community; 16% of the city identifies as Latino, Phillys fastest-growing demographic. But the community tends to exist in clusters, primarily in North or South Philadelphia. And, with the Trump administrations immigration policies, many have been sent into hiding. The musical comes at a time when Rocio Econa feels its important to emphasize the impact of Latino stories and Latino contributions. Especially during a time like this where our community faces so much danger, we are not going anywhere, she said. La Guagua 47: The Musical is set to be performed in full in April 2026 by the Philadelphia Theatre Company, Martinez said. Until then, she hopes to extend to Philadelphians the same feeling she experienced after getting off the Route 47 bus for the first time. Even when you lose your home, you can make one somewhere else, Martinez said. There is power in belonging. Our leaders have moved on from forging treaties under the great elm at Shackamaxon, but whether it's at Broad and Market or in Harrisburg, columnist Daniel Pearson seeks to illuminate the arguments and agreements among our modern-day sachems. Read more Long before the construction of the Pennsylvania state Capitol, City Hall, or even Independence Hall, people in this area had a designated place to do the work of government and politics. At a spot along the Delaware River, the sachems of the Lenape people met to discuss the issues of the day, settle disputes, and forge agreements. They called it Shackamaxon the place where the chiefs meet. Advertisement It was at Shackamaxon that traditional accounts claim William Penn and Chief Tamanend forged their famous peace accord. Today, the old meeting ground is a park named for that treaty. A plaque resides where the great elm, blown over in a storm in the early 19th century, once stood. And these days, we do politics elsewhere. Our sachems head to Broad and Market or Harrisburg, meeting in two of the grandest government buildings in the country, to do the peoples business. This new column, named in honor of that old Lenape place of power, will try to illuminate and comment upon the arguments and agreements of our modern-day chiefs. While many get into journalism in the hope of covering national politics, thats never really been my focus. It is certainly true that Congress, the president, and the U.S. Supreme Court can have an outsized impact on our day-to-day. In an age of masked immigration agents and crippling tariffs, that much is hard to deny. But when it comes to transportation, housing, education, public safety, and economic development, the local levels of power matter. Just look at the shifting schedules for your local SEPTA bus or train if you have any doubt. Whether theyre talking about Harrisburg or City Hall, people keep saying they need more from their elected officials. State politics often seem like a quagmire, and the Capitol is sometimes seen as a place where good ideas go to die. Regional and partisan resentment motivates too much of the decision-making there. Even talented leaders like former Gov. Ed Rendell have ended their tenures feeling like they left important priorities on the table. Meanwhile, the sachems over at Broad and Market have a different problem. They may manage to pass a budget on time every year, and you dont see Councilmember Brian J. ONeill emulating state Senate Majority Leader Joe Pittman by slamming other neighborhoods. But it is too easy to enact bad ideas. If a member of Council wants to stymie an affordable housing project, hinder small businesses, cancel a pedestrian safety initiative, or delay a desperately needed bus service shake-up, they are likely to find enthusiastic and, regrettably for the rest of us, unquestioning support from their colleagues. Together, these two legislative bodies tend to have a stifling effect on Philadelphia. According to the Brookings Institution, our region is near the bottom when it comes to both economic growth and economic mobility. This lack of vitality has not led to a lower cost of living, either. Philadelphia has the third-largest increase in housing values in the country, and the local market seems to be pushing more and more families off the housing ladder. Yet, in the face of these challenges, our elected leaders often seem reluctant to challenge existing orthodoxies and put forth innovative ideas. Worse still, they often display a level of indignation when called out by their constituents. Take, for example, the opening fall session for Philadelphia City Council earlier this month. During a typical meeting, after the bills and resolutions are introduced, there is a public comment session that usually swings between entertaining and illuminating. That Thursday, however, Council decided it was time to talk back. First up was Council President Kenyatta Johnson, who responded to the charge that he and his members dont often utilize public transportation, even while encouraging other Philadelphians to do so. Johnson defended himself and other members by saying they grew up in the city and have a long history of riding SEPTA buses and trains. But while Council members have been strong advocates for transit funding in Harrisburg, they have, at times, undermined the system, dragging their feet on needed service improvements. Johnsons statement also reinforced the perception that riding mass transit is something folks age into and out of. Thats not the attitude we need to ensure the system is able to thrive despite the lack of support in the Capitol. Curfew kerfuffle The new midnight curfew in the 7th and 8th Districts also proved to be a sensitive topic. Food truck owners Edward Bonilla and Jose Luis Reinoso spoke out on the way the curfew in parts of Kensington has hurt their business and workforce, urging the body not to expand the ban into more neighborhoods. Council sat through their testimony silently. Then Jennifer McDonald, an organizer with the public interest law firm Institute for Justice, read a series of quotes from small-business owners and advocates who did not have the time to attend themselves. This time, it was 8th District Councilmember Cindy Bass who pounced, asking McDonald whether she was from Philadelphia. Bass question was only the opening parochial parry. The 4th Districts Curtis Jones Jr. and the 7th Districts Quetcy Lozada also jumped at the opportunity to cast any opposition to their broad curfew as outside agitation, rather than grassroots reaction. Jones mentioned liquor-by-the-drink outlets that open at 7 a.m., a time frame that wouldnt be affected by the proposal. Lozada gave a speech saying she welcomes businesses that follow the law and rejects nuisance business. Few would disagree with that statement. In fact, a more targeted attempt to curb nuisance business from Councilmember Katherine Gilmore Richardson faced no opposition from the public during the same hearing. The midnight curfew imposed by Bass and Lozada, however, affects honest entrepreneurs and scofflaws alike. In a city like Philadelphia, which is filled with hospitals, warehouses, restaurants, and other places where people work into the night, eliminating these options makes little sense. It is telling that rather than defend the proposal on its merits, Council members chose instead to steer the debate toward the kind of insular, us-vs.-them provincialism that is too often used to end debates in Philadelphia rather than continue the conversation. In a city where asking where you went to high school is a classic icebreaker, this tactic has had plenty of success for Council. Unfortunately for them, it wont deter this columnist. I grew up here in Frankford. At a time when journalism is increasingly cast as an Ivy League vocation, my college degree came courtesy of Temple University and Community College of Philadelphia. Like most of Council, I graduated from a Philadelphia public high school. Unlike the eminent members, however, I still ride SEPTA almost every day, and remember what its like to come off a late shift hungry. In our modern Shackamaxon, the chiefs still make the decisions. This column, hopefully, can at least inspire them to think twice. Shackamaxon will appear on Fridays in the Opinion pages. Justices David Wecht, Christine Donohue and Kevin Dougherty sit onstage during a fireside chat featuring the three justices of the Pennsylvania Supreme Court who are on the November retention ballot at Central High School on Monday, Sept. 8, 2025 in Philadelphia. The conversation was moderated by Cherri Gregg, Co-Host of Studio 2 on WHYY, and presented by the Committee of Seventy, Pennsylvanians for Modern Courts and the League of Women Voters of Pennsylvania. Read more A GOP-affiliated PAC is sending Pennsylvania voters a mailer warning that members of the state Supreme Court gerrymandered our congressional districts to help Democrats win. The postcard even provides a picture of a map with wildly shaped districts circled in red. Advertisement The issue? The pictured map was not drawn by Pennsylvanias Supreme Court; it was drawn by legislative Republicans and thrown out by the justices as an unconstitutional gerrymander. The misleading mailer even made its way to the home of one of three justices standing for retention in November. Justice David Wecht was astonished when he saw the postcard. That one goes beyond hyperbole or exaggeration into outright, brazen misrepresentation, Wecht told The Inquirer on Friday. Its probably the most shameless political ad Ive ever seen. Wecht and the other justices faced severe backlash in 2018 for the decision to throw out the GOP map the one featured on the campaign mailers with some Republicans later calling for Wechts impeachment from the court in part because of it. The campaign literature, sent by the Commonwealth Leaders Fund, which has ties to Pennsylvanias richest man, Jeffrey Yass, is one of several recent mailers and digital ads that sparked outrage among Democrats, who have decried deceptive tactics in the critically important judicial election. It follows a pattern of misinformation common in judicial contests. Commonwealth Partners, the organization that runs the Commonwealth Leaders Fund, did not respond to a request for comment or questions about how widespread the mailer was. READ MORE: More than $7 million has poured into the Pa. Supreme Court judicial retention election so far Yass frequently supports GOP causes. It was unclear Friday how much Yass and the PACs he support have contributed to the effort so far. Three justices who were first elected as Democrats in 2015 Christine Donohue, Kevin Dougherty, and Wecht are asking voters this year to retain them for another decade-long term. (Supreme Court terms are 10 years, but Donohue would leave the bench in 2027 when she turns 75, the states mandatory retirement age for justices.) Usually a quiet, off-year affair, the retention race has drawn millions in campaign spending and intense state and national focus on both sides of the aisle. READ MORE: Republicans are attempting to boot three Democratic justices from the Pa. Supreme Court and for the first time, Dems are worried Republicans, driven by anger over the courts decisions on election law, redistricting, and COVID shutdowns, view ousting the justices as an opportunity to reshape the 5-2 liberal court in a critical swing state. Democrats, meanwhile, are eager to retain justices who have been open to arguments that the states constitution holds civil rights protections broader than those in federal law. The court is likely to hear cases covering key issues, including voting and abortion rights, over the next decade. Though the three justices were elected as Democrats 10 years ago, they stand for retention in a nonpartisan race that asks voters to simply mark yes or no. Easier to get away with misinformation These races are particularly ripe for misinformation, said Douglas Keith, founding editor of State Court Report at the Brennan Center for Justice. It is most common, Keith said, for campaigners to produce ad campaigns that dig into justices prior cases to argue the justices are soft on crime. State Supreme Court races have drawn increasing attention in recent years in response to the role state courts play in abortion rights and voting matters. But voters still tend not to know a lot about the justices on the states highest court, Keith said. Theres very little information that voters have going into these elections, so theres going to be limited pushback on the messaging they are getting, Keith said. Perhaps its easier to get away with misinformation. READ MORE: The future of redistricting in Pa. could be at stake in Novembers Supreme Court race Typically, Keith said, the bulk of the spending in Supreme Court races doesnt come until the end of the cycle, meaning what voters have seen so far may be only the tip of the iceberg. Campaign finance filings made public last week reported spending from Jan. 1 through Sept. 15. Similar strategies appeared in Wisconsin in the spring, when billionaire Elon Musks PAC funded advertisements that described the Democrat running for the state Supreme Court there as a progressive champion in an effort to make her appear further to the left than she was. And in Kansas in 2022, a Republican strategist sent misleading mailers that inaccurately told voters that to protect abortion rights, they must reject justices who had upheld state-level abortion rights. Multiple mailers, multiple messages The Pennsylvania gerrymandering postcard is one of several mailers and digital advertisements from anti-retention PACs that appear to offer confusing or misleading messaging to voters. A digital ad from the Citizens for Term Limits PAC urges voting against retaining the justices to protect womens rights, while others from the Commonwealth Partners urge a no vote to protect democracy. The Pennsylvania Supreme Court has overturned state laws that blocked Medicaid from paying for abortions and upheld the states mail voting law. Those mailers, which use language that tends to appeal to Democrats rather than Republicans, argue that voting no term-limits the court and will defend democracy, protect women and children, and force a fair election. They lack specific context about cases, and they imply that rejecting the justices would create term limits even when it would not. Wecht said he received several of the mailers calling for term limits. He argued that Pennsylvania already limits judges terms by forcing them to run for retention rather than offering lifetime appointments. The mailers and ads came from Citizens for Term Limits, Commonwealth Partners, and Commonwealth Leaders Fund, all of which have ties to Yass. The Pennsylvania Democratic Party equated Yass involvement here with Elon Musks historic investments in the Wisconsin Supreme Court election earlier this year. Despite Musks deep-pocketed contributions, Democrats won that race. Much like we saw in Wisconsin, MAGA billionaires are lying and trying to buy this election so they can install a Pennsylvania Supreme Court that will put the needs of the wealthy ahead of the rest of us, Eugene DePasquale, the chair of the Pennsylvania Democratic Party, said in a statement. For centuries, clown cars have mostly been filled with men. A new group of talent is changing that. The leopard print swimsuit is just the start. Bunny, the frantic, absurd and endearing clown created and performed by Nora Kelly Lester for her critically acclaimed show Bunny Bunny, pivots from a red nose to a teddy bear to a bin bag, all to convey modern womanhood in all of its messy contradictions. Bunny a character credited as having the writing, physical comedy and ingenuity of Phoebe Waller-Bridges Fleabag is the culmination of years of Kelly Lesters work. Originally trained in theatre, she mused over clown through her studies, but it wasnt until watching the critically-acclaimed Red Bastard by Eric Davis at the 2013 Edinburgh Fringe that she felt its red nose impress upon her. His whole thing is about pushing and testing an audience, she says between smiles. That blew my mind. Kelly Lester came home inspired and began creating the show, which would become Bunny, Bunny. As master of ceremonies, Bunny displays the kind of unearned self-assurance that usually wins praise for men and derision for women. She screams, mimes, discusses lovers, and bares her soul in a process that taught its creator a multitude. How to be publicly imperfect was perhaps the greatest lesson, she smiles, recalling rehearsal time. That process, however, was what ignited the flame. The first time I did any rehearsal work, I was so embarrassed and ashamed of what I was doing. But when I looked back months later, the stuff I thought was so terrible was actually so funny. I realised I neednt have taken myself so seriously and thats what clown teaches you. In that way, I would say its transformational. And there are people out there literally ruining the world who could really do with it. The job of the clown is to courageously reveal their own humanity in order for the audience to experience theirs, Ruth Lehane, award-winning actress, writer, theatre maker and clown, says. CLOWNING ON THE DOUBTERS From Paris to Sydney, Brazils palhacaria feminina to Dublin, female clowning is on the rise despite comedys historical insistence that women lack the funny bone. Annie Fratellini, of the famous Fratellini clown dynasty, notably performed as a male clown for this very reason. However, the comeback is on. And the reason is therapeutic. The job of the clown is to courageously reveal their own humanity in order for the audience to experience theirs, Ruth Lehane, award-winning actress, writer, theatre maker and clown, says. In our digital world, were getting more and more removed from our humanity. Clown is about connection, to the self and to the audience. She pauses. Magic happens when you put on a red nose, because the colour of humanity comes through people when theyre working this way. Saorla Rodgers and collaborator: Getting acquainted with failure in a new way is so hard to do, but such a good thing, not even specifically for performers." When Saorla Rodger was a student in the Gaiety School of Acting, a week-long workshop directed her attention to the art of clowning: I found it so challenging, but it didnt really spark anything. I then did another workshop in London, which really drove home the idea that failing was not a bad thing, or even just unimportant. Failing, or perhaps the redirection of it, is a central tenet of clown. Getting acquainted with failure in a new way is so hard to do, but such a good thing, not even specifically for performers, Rodger says. It rewired my brain to go from panicking when something didnt work with an audience to thinking: Thats great, Ive found something that doesnt work how useful. This consideration has proven addictive for young, jaded performers. Even in the past year, new clown-specific nights have started up in Dublin where there never were before, and that speaks to how affected we all are by it; it covers the full remit of human emotion, Rodger says. I know that people say that everyone should try stand-up once in their lives. But for me, I think everyone should do clown. There have always been women in clown, but you could argue that the stars are aligning right now, Angelica Santander says. This has been brewing for a while. THE ART OF MOCKERY Clownings origins are centred around disrupting hierarchies, a tempting mechanic proving uniquely suited in todays patriarchy. And unlike conventional theatre, the fourth wall is permanently down, proving real and alive in ways performers could only dream of. Indeed, while Kelly Lester and Rodgers blur the boundaries between stand-up, theatre, and comedy, Angelica Santander regularly hailed as Irelands top female clown incorporates the aspects of humanity were prone to losing today into her work. Santander, who is originally from Chile, was an actor before she studied clown under Sue Morrison, a world-class teacher of performance-oriented Clown and Bouffon a modern French theatre term to describe a specific style of performance work that has a main focus on the art of mockery. Today, as a performance artist and early years practitioner, what keeps her coming back is the freedom of expression." Santander has noticed more and more women attend her clown workshops of late, perhaps inspired by rising female clowns like Palamides or Julia Masli. Masli, whose show Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha debuted at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival in 2023, tours internationally, appearing onstage as a Chaplin-esque vagabond keen to solve audience problems, in a show thats entirely different every night. Her solutions, both genuine and absurd, provide a different kind of solace one that allows us a birds-eye view into humanity, led by a conductor with as much empathy as they have mischief. There have always been women in clown, but you could argue that the stars are aligning right now, Santander says. This has been brewing for a while. That said, people often dont expect a woman to be behind the nose, she says. I did a show in Monaghan recently, and I noticed a little girl at the end really eager to put her hand up. I said hello to her and she asked me: Are you a man? And I thought that was so funny, that she didnt expect a clown to be female, she said. Nora Kelly Lester from Bunny Bunny Productions pictured at her home in Barnland in Gorey, County Wexford. Pic: Jim Campbell THE SMALLEST MASK Layering vulnerability, absurdism, satire, and pathos credibly into a pin-sharp, observational performance is no mean feat, particularly when expectations of clown can be so low. When I tell people what I do, I think they think Im in a circus or a childrens entertainer with big shoes and a white face, Kelly Lester smiles. Not that there arent incredible people doing that, but were quite rigid in our understanding of clown, and Im hoping this new wave will change that. Todays clowns tend to propel the genre in a direction that continuously pushes the boundaries of traditional clown work. No longer necessary are the tricycles, oversized shoes, and white face paint though, they are available modern female clowns are taking the scene and running with it, in a way that reaps myriad dividends. Clowning is a tool that allows you to go deep inside yourself and commit, Santander says. It will bring you somewhere, and the benefits of that are endless. It remains to be seen whether this shift, in Ireland at least, will translate into something more than fringe comedy and expressionism. But for the women who have allowed themselves to become unravelled by clown, only to build themselves up from the nose in, its not the point. I think it appeals to anyone who has ever felt suppressed, Kelly Lester says. Or if youve had to fit into a certain mould. I remember feeling such relief when I discovered the feeling of rage inside me, which is an emotion that is considered masculine. But it was so freeing to feel that and work through it as someone who felt they always had to be a good girl. The nose, she continues, also allows one to look at these emotions in front of an audience in an approachable, comedic way. They say that the red nose is the smallest mask in the world, Kelly Lester says. But its not a mask to hide behind, its one to reveal your light. Men need to step up to the plate and take action about their health to change the high level of early deaths due to preventable illnesses, a leading mens health advocate has urged. This follows worrying news during the week that over 40% of men in Ireland die before the age of 75. Noel Richardson, director at the National Centre for Mens Health in the South-East Technological University, called on men to find out how they can live well and for longer. This is an issue for men to take on, he said. The call to action is for men to step up to the plate and take more responsibility. He was lead author on the report from mens health charity Movember which highlighted deaths from heart disease and cancer among other challenges for men. It also said men in the most deprived areas are expected to live five years less than men in the most well-off areas. For me theres an acceptance that somehow men are destined to die younger than women, but the reality is theyre not. He added: The majority of these deaths are down to lifestyle behaviours, underpinned by social class and other structural determinants of health. Health information is being made more available through workplaces including the construction sector, he said. Community groups such as sports clubs and mens sheds are also key to sharing information. Suicide in the construction industry is at a higher rate than in other industries, he said. National Centre for Mens Health director Noel Richardson: The majority of these deaths are down to lifestyle behaviours, underpinned by social class and other structural determinants of health.' File picture He added: It tends to be a volatile industry theyre either really busy or theres a crash and theres no work. "Theres long hours, there can be a culture of bullying and hypermasculinity, long commute times, and a diversity of nationalities so language is often a barrier. So its a complex mix of things. The approach now is to support men in looking out for each other, he explained. [We can] upskill gate-keepers in the workplace and give them the skills to identify workers who may be in distress, he said. Health groups have found for example farmers listen to other farmers, he said. This is why health checks or talks are more visible at marts and events such as the Ploughing Championships. In the report, The Real Face of Mens Health, Movember called on Government to invest an initial 10m to implement the national mens health action plan. Movember country manager Sarah Ouellette said the report shows Irish men are dying too young from preventable causes, and too many are living with poor health. There is huge unease around mens mental health, she said, pointing to data showing four in five people who die by suicide are male. She also called for positive change saying access to screening and early diagnosis of illnesses needs to improve. Gardai are treating the deaths of a little girl and her father in their Dublin home as a suspected murder-suicide. Locals said that the childs mother made the terrible discovery when she returned home on Saturday evening. The pair have been named locally as Krzysztof Daczkowski, who was in his 50s, and his daughter, Julia, who was five. The family was originally from Poland but had lived in the Heathfield estate in Finglas for some time, locals said. Gardai and emergency services were called to the familys home at approximately 8pm on Saturday. Although the investigation is still at an early stage, gardai are not currently looking for anyone else in relation to the deaths. There did not appear to be any signs of forced entry at the property. The bodies were removed from the scene by ambulance on Sunday afternoon. Eerily empty playground A playground opposite the house remained eerily empty on Sunday while gardai searched the surrounding area, looking through gardens, checking under cars and bushes, and opening bins, as forensics teams worked behind the police cordon. Local people said the deceased child had been regularly seen in that playground. Gardai have been searching the area after the remains of a man and his daughter were found dead in their home in the Heathfield estate in Finglas on Saturday. Picture: Eamonn Farrell/RollingNews A Garda spokesperson told the Irish Examiner that autopsies will be arranged in due course, and the results of these will assist them in determining the course of the investigation. The spokesperson added: No additional information is available at this time. Sinn Fein Dublin North-West TD Dessie Ellis, who is from Finglas, said that the community is in shock. Heathfield is facing Cappagh Hospital there. Its a relatively new estate and the vast majority of people in there are from Finglas. Its a lovely estate and people there cant get over what happened. Although the estate is no longer within his constituency following the Electoral Commissions most recent boundary review, he knows many families in the estate and continues to support the local community there. Dublin North-West Sein Fein TD Dessie Ellis: 'Its pretty hard to understand how something like this can happen.' I was talking to some of the neighbours there, Mr Ellis said. People there were all shocked by it. Its totally unexpected. And its pretty hard to understand how something like this can happen. People in the area would have known them. They were in the estate there a good while. Well soon hear what actually happened. At the moment, it looks like it was localised, within the family. "But, no matter what happened, we have a young child dead and a father, and its just so sad. Its an absolute tragedy. - If you are affected by any of the issues raised in this article, please click here for a list of support services. An intoxicated man who was spotted urinating in the street in a Cork town has been convicted in the district court. Court presenter, Sergeant Majella OSullivan, told Youghal District Court that a member of the public reported a highly intoxicated man on North Main Street, Youghal, on July 29, 2025 at 9.45pm. Garda Lee Donnelly attended the scene but when he arrived the man was no longer on North Man Street. A short time later, the suspect, identified as Stasys Serbickas, aged 37, with an address at the Cork Simon Community was spotted on Catherine Street, a short distance away. Garda Donnelly told the court that Mr Serbickas was highly intoxicated, was staggering and proceeded to urinate against a wall. He was arrested for his own safety and the safety of others and taken to Youghal Garda Station. The court heard that Mr Serbickas, who did not appear at the hearing, had no previous convictions. Judge John King convicted Mr Serbickas of being intoxicated in public and fined him 200, allowing two months to pay the fine. This article is funded by the Courts Reporting Scheme Councillors and council staff have been on the receiving end of considerable abuse from people opposed to a proposed greenway in Co Cork, according to a former mayor of the county. Fianna Fail councillor Gillian Coughlan said the current plan has no chance of getting over the line now". Ms Coughlan said she, other public representatives along with council employees, had received verbal abuse from objectors to the Cork-Kinsale greenway plan. However, she said she could understand the anger being expressed by property owners on the proposed route, as there seemed to have been a lack of proper public consultation. Ms Coughlan said feelings were running high, especially as it appeared some farms would be split in two by the project. She urged council officials to go back to the drawing board and carry out the project incrementally. We [the council] should have painstakingly knocked on doors and then we could have had a better outcome. But goodwill has been lost and theres no chance of getting it over the line now. I propose we go back to TII [Transport Infrastructure Ireland which is funding the project] and proceed on the route in increments, Ms Coughlan said. Fianna Fail councillor Patrick Donovan agreed, and maintained publicly-owned land could be used for some of the project. He said about 1,700 letters had been sent to property owners along the proposed route, but several of them had wrong addresses. Independent councillor Alan Coleman said submissions were now being collated by the council and its consultants. I propose the council executive meet directly with a delegation of the representative group [for objectors] and chairs of both MDs [Carrigaline and Bandon/Kinsale municipal district councils] which the proposed greenway runs through. I think that would be helpful, he said. It simply cannot proceed in its current form. We need a pause on this and we need to relook at it, Independent Ireland councillor John Collins added. Fianna Fail councillor Audrey Buckley said, like other councillors, she had been made aware by property owners of their upset at what had happened and stressed from now on, proper consultation has to be carried out". Social Democrats councillor Ann Bambury also proposed the council look at phasing the project. We must look at the least invasive way so as to avoid any more conflict, added Kinsale-based Fine Gael councillor Marie OSullivan. Council chief executive Moira Murrell said they had received about 2,000 submissions from the public on the planned greenway. She said the council was only in the early stages of the public consultation process and defended the amount of engagement it has had with property owners. We will have to go through them [the submissions] and reflect on them. There are some practical ideas and suggestions in them, Ms Murrell said. She added in reply to Mr Colemans request that she would talk to senior staff and the managers of the Carrigaline and Bandon/Kinsale Municipal District Councils about the possibility of meeting with a delegation representing the objectors. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov delivers a speech during the General Debate of the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) at the UN headquarters in New York on Sept. 27, 2025. Any aggression against Russia "will be met with a decisive response," said Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in his address to the general debate of the UN General Assembly on Saturday. (Xinhua/Li Rui) UNITED NATIONS, Sept. 27 (Xinhua) -- Any aggression against Russia "will be met with a decisive response," said Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in his address to the general debate of the UN General Assembly on Saturday. He said Western countries have increasingly threatened the use of force against Russia while accusing Moscow of nearly planning to attack NATO and European Union countries. Noting that Russian President Vladimir Putin has repeatedly debunked such provocations, Lavrov stressed that Russia has never had nor does it have such intentions. On the Russia-Ukraine conflict, Lavrov said, as the Russian president has repeatedly stressed, Russia has been and remains open to negotiations to eliminate the root causes of the conflict from the very beginning. Russia's security and vital interests must be reliably guaranteed, and the rights of Russians and Russian-speaking people in the territories that remain under the control of Ukraine must be restored and respected, he added. "On this basis, we are ready to talk about security guarantees for Ukraine." On Russia-U.S. relations, Lavrov said Russia places certain hopes on the continuation of the dialogue between the two countries, especially following the summit in the U.S. state of Alaska in August. Lavrov said that Russia sees an aspiration by the U.S. side not only to contribute to finding realistic ways to resolve the Ukraine crisis but also a desire to develop pragmatic cooperation without taking an ideological stance. Russia and the United States bear a special responsibility for the state of the world and for avoiding risks that could plunge humanity into a new war, he stressed. Lavrov also reiterated a new initiative proposed by Putin -- Moscow is prepared to adhere to nuclear arms limits for one year after the New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (New START) expires in February 2026, provided the United States takes the same step and refrains from actions that could upset the existing balance of deterrence capabilities. Signed by Russia and the United States in 2010, the New START treaty imposes caps on the number of deployed nuclear warheads and strategic delivery systems. It entered into force on Feb. 5, 2011, and would have expired on Feb. 5, 2021. Moscow and Washington officially extended the treaty by five years to February 2026. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov delivers a speech during the General Debate of the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) at the UN headquarters in New York on Sept. 27, 2025. Any aggression against Russia "will be met with a decisive response," said Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in his address to the general debate of the UN General Assembly on Saturday. (Xinhua/Li Rui) Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov delivers a speech during the General Debate of the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) at the UN headquarters in New York on Sept. 27, 2025. Any aggression against Russia "will be met with a decisive response," said Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in his address to the general debate of the UN General Assembly on Saturday. (Xinhua/Li Rui) Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov attends a press conference after delivering a speech during the General Debate of the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) at the UN headquarters in New York on Sept. 27, 2025. Any aggression against Russia "will be met with a decisive response," said Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in his address to the general debate of the UN General Assembly on Saturday. (Xinhua/Wu Xiaoling) Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov attends a press conference after delivering a speech during the General Debate of the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) at the UN headquarters in New York on Sept. 27, 2025. Any aggression against Russia "will be met with a decisive response," said Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in his address to the general debate of the UN General Assembly on Saturday. (Xinhua/Li Rui) Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov delivers a speech during the General Debate of the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) at the UN headquarters in New York on Sept. 27, 2025. Any aggression against Russia "will be met with a decisive response," said Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in his address to the general debate of the UN General Assembly on Saturday. (Xinhua/Li Rui) Journalists raise hands to ask questions at a press conference of Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov at the UN headquarters in New York on Sept. 27, 2025. Any aggression against Russia "will be met with a decisive response," said Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in his address to the general debate of the UN General Assembly on Saturday. (Xinhua/Li Rui) Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov attends a press conference after delivering a speech during the General Debate of the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) at the UN headquarters in New York on Sept. 27, 2025. Any aggression against Russia "will be met with a decisive response," said Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov in his address to the general debate of the UN General Assembly on Saturday. (Xinhua/Wu Xiaoling) More than 66,000 Palestinians have been killed in the Israel-Hamas war, Gazas Health Ministry has said. The ministry said in its daily report on Sunday that the death toll has now climbed to 66,005, with a further 168,162 injured since Hamass October 7, 2023 attack which sparked the war. More than 66,000 Palestinians have been killed in the Israel-Hamas war, Gazas Health Ministry has said, a day before Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu heads to the White House for talks with US President Donald Trump on halting the ongoing offensive in Gaza. The ministry said in its daily report on Sunday that the death toll has now climbed to 66,005, with a further 168,162 injured since Hamass October 7, 2023 attack which sparked the war. Among the dead were 79 who were brought to hospitals in the past 24 hours, it added. Mr Netanyahu has come under heavy international pressure to end the war, with key Western allies joining a growing list of countries recognising a Palestinian state over Israeli objections. The European Union is considering sanctions against Israel and there are growing moves for a sports and cultural boycott against Israel. After dozens of delegates poured out of the hall at the UN General Assembly on Friday in protest, a defiant Mr Netanyahu told fellow world leaders that his nation must finish the job against Hamas in Gaza. Mr Trump has so far stood behind Israel, but he has shown signs of impatience lately, particularly after Israels bombing of Qatar earlier this month in what appears to have been a failed attempt to kill Hamass leadership. Dr Paul Ransom, right, of UK-Med, joins local medical staff to treat patients at a field hospital in Muwasi, near Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip (Jehad Alshrafi/AP) Ceasefire talks have stalled since Israels widely condemned strike in Doha, but in Mondays White House meeting, Mr Trump is expected to share a new 21-point proposal for an immediate ceasefire. Forty-eight hostages are still held captive in Gaza by Hamas, around 20 of them believed by Israel to be alive. Mr Trumps proposal would include the release of all hostages within 48 hours and a gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces from the Palestinian enclave, according to three Arab officials briefed on the plan. The president discussed the proposal, which is not final, with Arab leaders in New York on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly. A Hamas official said the group was briefed on the plan but has yet to receive an official offer from Egyptian and Qatari mediators. Hamas has said it is ready to study any proposals positively and responsibly. The official said the group had previously said it was willing to release all hostages in return for an end to the war and a complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from the strip. Israels offensive has destroyed vast areas of Gaza, displaced around 90% of the population and caused a catastrophic humanitarian crisis, with experts saying Gaza City is experiencing famine. The health ministry, part of the Hamas-run administration, does not differentiate between civilians and militants in its death toll, but has said women and children make up around half the dead. Its figures are seen as a reliable estimate by the UN and many independent experts. A gunman opened fire inside a Michigan church during Sunday services before apparently setting the building ablaze, killing at least one person and injuring nine before police shot him, authorities said. Hundreds of people were inside The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc Township when a 40-year-old man rammed his vehicle into the front door, then exited the vehicle and started shooting, police chief William Renye told reporters. Police believe he deliberately set the building on fire. The suspect is accused of ramming a vehicle into the church before opening fire (Lukas Katilius/The Flint Journal via AP) After the suspect left the church, two officers pursued him and engaged in gunfire, Mr Renye said. The man was killed. Flames and smoke could be seen for hours before the blaze was put out. First responders were then sifting through the wreckage. We do believe we will find some additional victims once we find the area where the fire was, Mr Renye said. Emergency services attended the scene on Sunday (Jose Juarez/AP) Police said they did not yet have a motive for the fire or shooting. Investigators were searching the suspects residence in nearby Burton. Authorities did not provide any additional details about the suspect, including whether he was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, widely known as the Mormon church. US president Donald Trump said he was briefed on the shooting. In a social media post, he applauded the FBI, who local authorities said were sending 100 agents to the area, for responding. PRAY for the victims, and their families. THIS EPIDEMIC OF VIOLENCE IN OUR COUNTRY MUST END, IMMEDIATELY! Mr Trump wrote. Police said they did not yet have a motive for the fire or shooting (Jose Juarez/AP) The church, circled by a car park and a large lawn, is located near residential areas and a Jehovahs Witness church. It is in Grand Blanc Township, a community of roughly 40,000 people outside Flint. Michigan governor Gretchen Whitmer said in a statement that her heart was breaking for the Grand Blanc community. Violence anywhere, especially in a place of worship, is unacceptable, she said. The shooting occurred the morning after Russell M Nelson, the oldest-ever president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, died at 101. The next president of the faith, known widely as the Mormon church, is expected to be Dallin H Oaks, as per church protocol. Disneys reversal on Jimmy Kimmels suspension wasnt an act of corporate consciousness it was a strategic retreat forced by coordinated pressure. ( Waging Nonviolence ) The attempt to silence late-night host Jimmy Kimmel has backfired in a big way, with Disney/ABC now reversing the indefinite suspension it announced last week. This important victory over the Trump administrations efforts to suppress free speech provides insight into the workings of nonviolent noncooperation and how it can effectively defend democracy on its most critical fronts. Still, Kimmels reinstatement today shouldnt breed complacency. What weve seen is the power of the Federal Communications Commission, or FCC, to approve mergers and how that gives the executive branch dangerous leverage over media. Though it was unsuccessful in this instance, movements need to stay vigilant and be willing to take action to prevent further efforts to consolidate power. A popular tool used in nonviolent trainings, called the pillars of support, provides a helpful framework for understanding what just happened. The model examines how regimes source and maintain power. The pillars that prop up any government include security forces, the bureaucracy and business leaders, as well as educational, religious and media institutions. In authoritarian systems, controlling the media pillar is crucial, as it allows regimes to shape public narratives. The pillars of support. (Beautiful Trouble) In this case, the FCC leveraged a merger that would affect Disney/ABC in order to push Kimmel off the air, and exert control over the media pillar. But its crucial to understand that whats happening isnt just about the media. Kimmels now temporary suspension isnt a one-off thing. Its bigger than that. Its part of a trail of actions designed to dismantle any institution that could challenge the regime in the court of public opinion. Its the culmination of a long-term strategy by the administration to consolidate power across multiple pillars of support at all costs. Theyve targeted law firms and universities, signed executive orders that allow civil servants to be fired for dissent in an attempt to neutralize the civil service pillar and have dramatically expanded ICEs budget. The large signing bonuses they are offering new agents are just one way they are solidifying control over the security pillar. All these actions work together: They remove lawyers who might challenge them, silence federal employees who could speak out, and empower police forces that could potentially pivot to suppress protest under the guise of obstructing immigration enforcement. It all forms part of the same strategy: systematically consolidating all sources of power under an authoritarian regime and eliminating every mechanism society uses for self-correction. And yet, in light of all these dangerous developments, Jimmy Kimmel will be back on the air. The speed and intensity of the backlash against the suspension demonstrated that pillars of support have many facets. Our swift and widespread opposition showed that just because corporate bosses value their stock prices more than free speech, that doesnt mean ordinary people have to. The reversal wasnt an act of corporate consciousness it was a strategic retreat as they began to understand that their media conglomerates are ultimately accountable to the people. The media pillar consists of more than just the companies they represent. Even if corporate executives primary interests are more revenue and a bigger market share, they depend on lots of ordinary people to succeed. In this case, we saw how both consumers and the workers/talent within a pillar can cause it to change course. A cross-section of the media pillar, showing some of the different groups that constitute this pillar. (WNV/Joe Worthy) The Writers Guild, or WGA, issued a strong statement condemning the government action and corporate cowardice, accompanied by a protest outside Disneys headquarters, signaling the first step towards more coercive action. Even Disneys talent began to call for a boycott and, almost immediately after the suspension, Google searches for cancel Disney+ surged, with people soon following suit. The good news is, workers and consumers make up every single pillar of support in society. Thats to say, there is no way that any of the pillars can provide an authoritarian regime with power unless we allow it. No business can handle a large-scale consumer withdrawal, and no government agency can handle widespread worker withdrawal. So even though the Trump administration has been moving methodically to consolidate power, the people of this country have the power to make it an exercise in futility. We have to organize and coalesce ourselves to ensure that what we do as individuals makes the intended impact on whichever pillar were working to influence. The goal cant just be to keep comedians on the air; it has to be to ensure that the media pillar and other pillars like it dont acquiesce to the strong-arm tactics of this administration. This episode with Kimmel serves as a critical stress test. It exposed the oppositions playbook and demonstrated that coordinated pressure can force a retreat. However, this victory must be seen as temporary and incomplete. The structural vulnerabilities that enabled this coercion such as the FCCs regulatory leverage, the prioritization of corporate mergers and the degradation of antitrust enforcement remain in place. Furthermore, the goal of the suspension might have been partially achieved; it may already have had a chilling effect across the industry. The message to every writer, producer and journalist is clear: Get out of line with the regime and you risk termination. The next attempt at censorship will likely not target high-profile hosts; instead, it will be a quiet cancellation of negative segments or a subtle encouragement of self-censorship at lower levels. Still, this is a significant victory and should be celebrated. We observed the emergence of a broad network that was willing to work together, share information and amplify each others messages with a single focus: boycotting Disney/ABC until Jimmy Kimmel returns to the air. The fight isnt over, and there is still work to do. Dozens of ABC affiliates (owned by Nexstar and Sinclair Broadcast Group) are still saying they wont air Kimmel. A new group called I Have Friends Everywhere, a reference from the Disney+ show Andor, has put out a toolkit to shift the boycott energy to Nexstar and Sinclair, and pressure their advertisers to cut ties until the censorship ends. File photo of Jimmy Kimmel. Public Domain. Via Wikimedia Commons Its essential that people remain mobilized, not just to ensure that our airwaves are distributed fairly and access to media is not influenced by an authoritarian regime, but also to leverage this growing, increasingly coordinated network to subvert other pillars sustaining its power. Even in the darkest of times, people can rise up and ensure they hold onto their democracy. By understanding the strategies used to enforce obedience and applying principles of strategic nonviolence, we can reclaim the media and other pillars to strengthen democracy. Via Waging Nonviolence Joe Worthy Jr. is a grassroots organizer who has organized youth in Cleveland, Ohio, to overhaul their police review board to have teeth and organized black women in Mississippi to win postpartum health care rights. He is now establishing the Strategic Nonviolence Academy to educate and empower leaders in nonviolent revolution, drawing on his international work with climate justice activists. ( Middle East Monitor ) As Israel continues with its genocide to empty Gaza of Palestinians, the Gaza Media Office stated this month that more than one million Palestinians are refusing to leave Gaza city. We must affirm that more than one million Palestinians, including over 350,000 children, remain in the north, steadfast in their land, homes and properties, and rejecting outright the scheme of forced displacement to the south, a statement partly read. Only recently did the UN acknowledge that Israel is committing genocide against the Palestinian people in Gaza. It took almost two years for the purported human rights institution to acknowledge the obvious. But what the UN and world leaders continue to refuse to recognise is Israels colonial project and international complicity in maintaining it. Both allowed Israel to arrive at the point of genocide and its ongoing implementation as we see unfolding in Gaza. Palestinians in Gaza represent the entirety of Palestine. All have known forced displacement, many since the 1948 Nakba. In line with the 1947 UN Partition Plan, the international community has made it clear that its prime objective is to protect Israels colonial enterprise. Which is why Palestinians were coerced into the humanitarian aid and human rights violations paradigms. By separating Israel from what defines Palestinians according to the international communitys narrative, the Zionist colonial project was free to arrive at genocide. The path to genocide is protected by the international community. In the first months of Israels genocide in Gaza, forced displacement was openly talked about by Israeli officials. The international community maintained that it would not accept, or be party to, hosting Palestinians in complicity with Israels ethnic cleansing plans, citing international law. However, the international community has given ample examples of how unequal the application of international law is. Taking a stance against ethnic cleansing for political reasons that have nothing to do with Israels colonial project is one such manipulation of international law. Or what anyone with a sense of justice would associate with international law. If international law is derived from the continuation of colonialism, then Israels accomplices and Israel itself hold a position that can only be challenged and countered through decolonisation. Ghassan Kanafani articulated several times in his political writings that Palestinians are up against colonialism and imperialism, not just the Zionist colonial project and expansion on their own territory. Gaza 60, Digital, Midjourney, 2025 While the Palestinian people are affirming their right to remain in Palestine, the international community has defined Palestinians through paradigms that only serve Israel and its Western accomplices. Palestinians defining themselves is not something the international community wants to face, as it would cause the entire facade of human rights to crumble. While the UN now acknowledges that Israel is committing genocide against the Palestinian people, it has not yet acknowledged Israels colonialism. Neither has the UN acknowledged that its recognition of Israel bars recognition of colonialism. Palestinians do not want to leave their land. The Western concept of human rights should not even intrude upon, or negotiate that right, in colonialisms favour. The views expressed in this article belong to the author and do not necessarily reflect the editorial policy of Middle East Monitor or Informed Comment. Via Middle East Monitor Former Yugoslav army chief Nebojsa Pavkovic, convicted of war crimes during Kosovo's war of independence, arrived back in Belgrade Sunday after being released early on health grounds, Serbia's prime minister announced. Pavkovic, 79, was sentenced by the International Criminal Court in The Hague in 2009 to 22 years in prison, for crimes against Albanians during the 1998-1999 Kosovo war. The verdict was confirmed in 2014 and he had been serving his sentence in Finland. He surrendered to the court in 2005, which had been seeking him for his role as commander of the Yugoslav Third Army in Kosovo. Serbian Prime Minister Djuro Macut said his successful release had been due to lobbying by the government. Pavkovic "will continue his treatment in Serbia, with the support of his family and the health institutions of our country", Macut added. Serbia's state broadcaster, RTS, said Pavkovic had been taken to a military hospital on arriving back in Serbia. In May 2022, the court rejected a request for an earlier release, citing "the gravity of his crimes and the lack of rehabilitation". Pavkovic was a close associate of nationalist strongman Slobodan Milosevic, who died in 2006 during his own war-crimes trial. Milosevic and the Serbian authorities have long maintained they were legitimately fighting the Kosovo Liberation Army (KLA), which they branded a terrorist group. Kosovo declared independence from Serbia in 2008, a move Belgrade still refuses to recognise. Fairness, justice most important value of int'l community, says Chinese premier Xinhua) 13:09, September 28, 2025 Chinese Premier Li Qiang delivers a speech at the general debate of the 80th session of the UN General Assembly at the UN headquarters in New York, Sept. 26, 2025. (Xinhua/Ding Haitao) UNITED NATIONS, Sept. 26 (Xinhua) -- Fairness and justice stand as the most important value of the international community, said Chinese Premier Li Qiang at the United Nations on Friday. Li made the remarks when delivering a speech at the general debate of the 80th session of the UN General Assembly. Noting peace and development are the most ardent common aspiration across the world, he said that solidarity and cooperation represent the most powerful source of strength for human progress. This year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War and the founding of the United Nations, Li noted, adding that some valuable lessons can be drawn from history. Li stressed that China, as a founding member of the United Nations, has all along taken an active part in global affairs and worked for the betterment of humanity. Over the years, Chinese President Xi Jinping has put forward the vision of building a community with a shared future for humanity, as well as the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative, the Global Civilization Initiative and the Global Governance Initiative (GGI), sharing China's wisdom and solution for navigating global transformations and overcoming pressing challenges, Li said. In particular, the GGI proposed at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization Tianjin Summit at the beginning of this month underscores the principles of adhering to sovereign equality, abiding by the international rule of law, practicing multilateralism, advocating the people-centered approach, and focusing on taking real actions, Li said, noting that the initiative provides an important pathway for building a more just and equitable global governance system. He pledged China's readiness to work with all parties to take coordinated and effective actions to solve more practical problems and promote world peace and development. The world has entered a new period of turbulence and transformation, Li said, noting that unilateralism and Cold War mentality are resurfacing, severely undermining the international rules and order and disrupting the international system. Humanity once again comes to a crossroads, Li said. "Anyone who cares about the state of affairs in the world would want to ask: Why couldn't we humans, having emerged from tribulations, adopt a greater sense of conscience and rationality, and treat each other with kindness and coexist in peace?" Li said. Chinese Premier Li Qiang delivers a speech at the general debate of the 80th session of the UN General Assembly at the UN headquarters in New York, Sept. 26, 2025. (Xinhua/Liu Bin) "How could we, in the face of deplorable incidents such as humanitarian disasters, turn a blind eye to atrocities that trample blatantly on fairness and justice and sit on our hands? How could we, when confronted with unscrupulous acts of hegemonism and bullying, remain silent and submissive for fear of might?" Li asked. "And how could we let the ardent passion and dedication of our forefathers in founding the UN simply fade into the pages of history?" Li added. Quoting a Chinese saying that "never forget why you started, and you can accomplish your mission," Li said the pursuit of peace, progress and development is the very essence of commemorating past victories and the shared mission uniting the world's people in common cause. "While we may not be able to go back in time and relive the victory, we can definitely create a better future together," Li said. At a time when the world faces intertwined changes and turmoil, the Chinese premier called on all sides to build peace and ensure common security. In the face of a sluggish global recovery, he called for revitalizing cooperation and seeking win-win outcomes. As diverse civilizations interact and evolve, he urged championing dialogue and mutual learning. In responding to emerging challenges, he urged joint efforts to protect the shared home. Li said China will always be a staunch defender of world peace and security, a key driver of global common development, an active practitioner of exchanges and mutual learning among civilizations, and a responsible stakeholder in addressing global challenges. China stands ready to work with all parties to uphold the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, carry forward the spirit of multilateralism, and actively implement the four major global initiatives, and advance toward the lofty goal of building a community with a shared future for humanity, said Li. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) WASHINGTON, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- The suspension and subsequent return of a late-night talk show of American Broadcasting Company (ABC) have sparked a heated debate on free speech in the United States. ABC's "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" went back on the air Tuesday night, nearly a week after being suspended over remarks about the killing of Charlie Kirk, a conservative activist and influencer. "It was never my intention to make light of the murder of a young man," Jimmy Kimmel, the host of the show, said on Tuesday night. "This show isn't important. What's important is that we get to live in a country that allows us to have a show like this." U.S. President Donald Trump, a friend and ally of Kirk, slammed ABC for bringing the show back. "I can't believe ABC Fake News gave Jimmy Kimmel his job back," Trump posted on Truth Social. "The White House was told by ABC that his show was canceled!" In a monologue on Sept. 15, Kimmel suggested that Tyler Robinson, the suspect in Kirk's killing, could have been a pro-Trump Republican. "The MAGA Gang (is) desperately trying to characterize this kid who murdered Charlie Kirk as anything other than one of them and doing everything they can to score political points from it," he said. On Sept. 17, ABC, one of the major television networks in the United States, announced that it was suspending the show "indefinitely" after Kimmel's comment. Critics argued that suspending the show amounts to an infringement on free speech, especially if government or regulatory pressure or threats are involved. Some contended that if this kind of expression is suppressed, it could weaken the public's ability to criticize or hold those in power accountable. For those who support the suspension, the move was seen as a reasonable disciplinary or business decision rather than an act of government suppression of free speech. Some conservatives argued that holding Kimmel accountable for his controversial remarks is not the same as "cancel culture." The show's suspension came amid multiple dismissals of individuals who've made what were deemed inappropriate online remarks regarding Kirk's death. A Middle Tennessee State University employee was fired for writing that they had "ZERO sympathy" for Kirk's murder. Nancy Mace, Congresswoman from South Carolina, pushed for the firing of a public school teacher who praised Kirk's death on social media. The employee was later dismissed. She also pushed to cut off federal funding for any school that excuses or glorifies Kirk's death. Some private companies have fired employees for their allegedly controversial media posts about the incident. The nation's three biggest airlines -- Delta Air Lines, American Airlines and United Airlines -- reported the suspension of workers for making insensitive social media posts on Kirk's killing. The issue is more complicated with employees in the public sector. The Supreme Court in 1987 decided in favor of a government employee who, following the assassination attempt on President Ronald Reagan, told a coworker she hoped the next attempt would be successful. At the same time, Republicans and conservatives have for years said that social media censors their viewpoints, mainstream media are blatantly biased against them and that conservative students face discrimination on campus. Some worry that this tit-for-tat mentality could spiral out of control, ultimately undermining everyone's right to free speech, regardless of political affiliation. Clay Ramsay, a researcher at the Center for International and Security Studies at the University of Maryland, told Xinhua that Americans "have amnesia about the many past efforts to control people's speech and conduct in the United States." He noted the struggle against left-wing expression in the Red Scare from 1917 to 1920, and a nationwide ban on the manufacture, sale and transportation of alcoholic beverages in the United States that lasted from 1920 to 1933. "Freedom of speech on university campuses was curtailed considerably in the 1950s, and the struggle to recover it did not really begin until 1962," Ramsay said, adding that blacklisting of figures in the movies, TV and radio was standard practice during the same period. "The new element today is social media. Anyone can publicly post a long audit trail of political statements that is widely accessible. The temptation to 'dox' is today's version of blacklisting," Ramsay said. Saturday, September 27, 2025 - Detectives in Makindu have arrested two men believed to be behind a series of highway motor vehicle thefts targeting motorists along the busy MombasaNairobi Highway. The suspects, Joseph Katee Nzainga and Nelson Musyoki Mbidyo, are accused of orchestrating robberies involving vehicles bound for Uganda as well as unregistered cars bearing Kenya Dealers (KD) plates. In one incident on August 28th, 2025, the duo allegedly carjacked a black Toyota Harrier with KD plates from a motorist in the Makindu area. Upon their arrest along the highway, detectives recovered several items, including a set of registration plates (KDR 885Z), three ID cards belonging to different individuals, five mobile phones, a wheel spanner, and other assorted items believed to be linked to the syndicates activities. The two suspects are currently in custody undergoing processing and will be arraigned in court once investigations are complete. Saturday, September 27, 2025 - Media personality and Citizen TV host, Azeezah Hashim, has stirred conversation online after candidly sharing her views on marriage, love and dowry. In a heartfelt interview with YouTuber Silva Kiddo on Saturday, September 27th, 2025, Azeezah revealed shes ready for marriage, but not on societys traditional terms. Despite being of age, Azeezah says no man has formally proposed, and shes still waiting patiently. I cannot marry myself, yet you men have not come, she said. There have been no proposals, and I do not want dowry - you can come just as you are. For the multi-talented media personality, love is the only requirement. Shes not interested in dowry or bride price, and she firmly believes its the mans role to initiate the relationship. I only want love. I am not the one who should look for a man; he should present himself, she added. Opening up about her personal life, Azeezah shared that shes never been married and doesnt know the formal process. However, shes open to becoming a second wife, under one condition. If someone wants me to be a second wife, he should come with his first wife to my parents. If they come and say they want me, I will be ready. She also cautioned against women pursuing men, saying such relationships often lack depth. Sometimes, when a woman looks for a man, he does not take her seriously. It becomes something to tick off a checklist. Her honesty has sparked fresh dialogue on modern love, tradition and choice. The Kenyan DAILY POST Saturday, September 27, 2025 - Police officers in Muranga South Sub-County foiled an attempt to smuggle narcotics into Kenol Law Courts and arrested a suspect. The incident occurred during a routine inspection of the courts holding cells, where court orderlies from Kenol Police Station intercepted a suspect carrying illegal substances. A search revealed 71 rolls of bhang, five sachets of kuber and 18 tablets of cosmos concealed in his possession. The suspect was immediately escorted to Kenol Police Station, where he was booked into custody pending processing and arraignment in court. Police commended the vigilance of the officers, reiterating their commitment to safeguarding public spaces, including court premises, from criminal activity. The Kenyan DAILY POST GAZA, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- Al-Qassam Brigades, the armed wing of Hamas, said on Sunday that it had lost communication with two Israeli hostages due to intensified Israeli attacks in Gaza City. In a press statement, Al-Qassam said communication with the hostages, identified as Omri Miran and Matan Angrest, was cut off during the past 48 hours amid heavy Israeli bombardment and military activity in the Sabra and Tel al-Hawa neighborhoods. Al-Qassam warned that the lives of the two hostages were in "real danger," demanding Israeli forces withdraw south of Street No. 8 and halt air operations for 24 hours to allow attempts to secure the captives. Meanwhile, local sources and eyewitnesses said the Israeli army has expanded its ground operations in several areas of Gaza City, including Al-Nasr, Sheikh Radwan, and Al-Shati refugee camp in the north, as well as Tel al-Hawa and Sabra in the south, supported by airstrikes, artillery shelling, and tank fire. In a separate statement, the Israeli military said its 98th Division had expanded operational control around Gaza City in recent hours, targeting military infrastructure and several militants in coordination with the air force. The army added that its 162nd Division continued fighting in the area, destroying buildings and combat sites belonging to armed groups. Its air force struck about 140 targets across the Gaza Strip in recent hours, including military facilities, militants, and other infrastructure. Israel launched a large-scale offensive on the Gaza Strip on Oct. 7, 2023, following a Hamas attack on southern Israel that left more than 1,200 people dead and led to the capture of 251 hostages, according to Israeli authorities. Saturday, September 27, 2025 - Trans-Nzoia Governor George Natembeya has issued a passionate appeal for the Luhya community to be treated with dignity and offered broader opportunities beyond domestic roles. Speaking in Luanda, Vihiga County, on Saturday, September 27th, 2025, Natembeya lamented the historical marginalisation of the Luhya, particularly in employment and infrastructure. Kila mtu anajua watu wetu wanatafutwa pale tu inapohitajika mfanyakazi wa nyumba mtu akikufa sisi ndio tunatafutwa kuchimba kaburi, he said. Natembeya stressed that despite being one of Kenyas largest ethnic groups, the Luhya have long been excluded from meaningful participation in national development. He pointed to the scarcity of factories and job opportunities in the western region, noting that many educated youth remain unemployed. He also warned against political exploitation, urging the community to be vigilant during election periods. During elections, people will come to buy votes. Take the money - its your tax - but your vote is your right. Dont be swayed by short-term favours, he advised. Calling for inclusive policies, Natembeya urged both Government and citizens to restore the dignity of the Luhya people. Our people deserve better lives and full participation in building the nation, he concluded. The Kenyan DAILY POST Saturday, September 27, 2025 - Saboti Member of Parliament Caleb Amisi is celebrating a remarkable academic achievement after graduating as the top student in his Master of Arts in International Relations class at the 47th United States International University-Africa (USIU-A) graduation ceremony. Amisi announced the milestone on Saturday, September 27th, revealing a stellar GPA of 3.913 out of 4.00. I thank God for this achievement, he wrote on social media, reflecting on his journey from humble beginnings to academic excellence. Amisi recalled being an orphaned boy who walked into Starehe Boys Centre 25 years ago with nothing but a padlock, having topped the Western Province in the 2000 KCPE exams with 590 marks. Today, the same boy graduates as top student amidst a convoluted political environment and demanding public service, he posted. We do not choose where, when, and whom to be born from, but we definitely have the power to choose our own destiny. Amisi, now a second-term MP aligned with the Kenya Moja political outfit, said his new qualification will enhance his work in Parliament, particularly in foreign affairs. This will really help improve my work, especially in the Foreign Relations Committee. Poverty is afraid of determination, he added. He currently serves on the Defence, Intelligence and Foreign Relations Committee, is Vice Chair of the Public Investments Committee, and sits on the Appointments Committee. The Kenyan DAILY POST Saturday, September 27, 2025 - President William Ruto has dismissed claims that Kenya is part of a deal with the United States Government, led by President Donald Trump, to accept deported illegal immigrants. Speaking during an interview on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), Ruto clarified that his administration has not received any formal request from Washington regarding the matter. Asked by a France 24 journalist whether Kenya had been approached like other African nations, such as Ghana, Rwanda, South Sudan and Uganda, Ruto said: We have no such requests. He emphasized that any future engagement would be subject to Kenyas constitutional framework. If we were to get a request from the US Government, that has to be in line with the Kenyan law, Ruto added. His remarks come shortly after Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni approved a deal to receive deported immigrants from the US, sparking mixed reactions. Uganda, which hosts the largest refugee population in Africa, placed strict conditions on the agreement, including rejecting individuals with criminal records and unaccompanied minors. Ugandas Foreign Affairs Ministry also clarified that only deportees from African countries will be considered for relocation. The Kenyan DAILY POST Saturday, September 27, 2025 - Kenyan socialite and beauty entrepreneur, Huddah Monroe, has once again stirred conversation online after firmly responding to repeated questions about her plans to have children. During a candid Instagram Q&A session, a follower asked whether she intended to have a baby in the future, a question Huddah says shes tired of hearing. Honestly, why is this the most asked question? Dont yall have something better to focus on than my womb? she wrote, sparking a wave of reactions across social media. Her unapologetic response resonated with many women who feel pressured by societal expectations around motherhood. She used the moment to challenge the culture of intrusive questioning, especially directed at women in the public eye. Some netizens couldnt resist drawing comparisons between Huddah Monroe and her longtime rival, Vera Sidika, who has openly embraced motherhood and now has two children. While Vera frequently shares glimpses of her family life online, portraying a softer, maternal side, Huddah has remained fiercely independent and private about her personal choices. The contrast sparked debate, with some suggesting that Veras journey into motherhood reflects growth and maturity, while others defended Huddahs stance, arguing that fulfillment comes in many forms - and not every womans path includes children. The Kenyan DAILY POST Saturday, September 27, 2025 - The arrest of Lodwar prison officer, ASP Charles Lotira Ekidor, over alleged involvement in the illegal firearms trade has sparked heated debate among Turkana residents, exposing deeply divided opinions on the matter. ASP Lotira, who rose through the ranks to the position of Assistant Superintendent of Prisons, now faces the possibility of losing the benefits of his lifelong service as retirement nears. His arrest has left the community questioning whether he is guilty or a victim of foul play. On social media, some residents suggested the case could be politically motivated. Ni set up, sabotage ama siasa? one user wrote, questioning the timing of the arrest. Another supporter lamented: Could this be a setup? ASP Lotira climbed high in his youth, reaching the post of Assistant Superintendent of Prisons. But one arrest has brought it all crashing down, and with retirement looming, he is set to lose everything. Others suspected the involvement of a wider network within the security forces:There could be a bigger culprit behind this. It may be a trigger to a wider web well protected inside the so-called disciplined forces. As investigations continue, the case remains a subject of discussion in Turkana, where many are grappling with whether ASP Lotira is a scapegoat, or a key link in a larger criminal network. The Kenyan DAILY POST 1 of 1 , , 1895 , khaskhabar.com: , 28 2025 10:21 PM Researchers of the Chinese Academy of Sciences' Institute of Plasma Physics (ASIPP) record experiment data in Hefei, east China's Anhui Province, Sept. 28, 2025. (Xinhua/Wu Huijun) HEFEI, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- Chinese scientists announced on Sunday that they have successfully generated a steady magnetic field of 351,000 gauss with a fully superconducting magnet, setting a new world record. The breakthrough will significantly advance the commercialization of advanced superconducting scientific instruments, such as nuclear magnetic resonance spectrometers, according to the scientists. It also provides crucial technical support for multiple cutting-edge fields, including fusion magnet systems, space electromagnetic propulsion, superconducting induction heating, magnetic levitation, and efficient power transmission. The magnet was developed by the Chinese Academy of Sciences' Institute of Plasma Physics (ASIPP), located in Hefei, east China's Anhui Province, in collaboration with the Hefei International Applied Superconductivity Center, the Institute of Energy of the Hefei Comprehensive National Science Center, and Tsinghua University. Earth itself is a giant magnet, generating a geomagnetic field of about 0.5 gauss. Superconducting magnets, fabricated by winding superconducting materials, can generate extremely strong magnetic fields while enabling lossless transmission of large currents. Liu Fang, researcher with ASIPP, explained that the magnet adopts high-temperature superconducting insert-coil technology, coaxially nested with low-temperature superconducting magnets. The team effectively overcame challenges such as stress concentration, shielding current effects and multi-field coupling effects under low-temperature, high-field conditions. These innovations significantly improved the magnet's mechanical stability and electromagnetic performance in extreme environments. During the experiment, the magnet was energized to 35.1 tesla, stably operated for 30 minutes, and was safely demagnetized, fully verifying the reliability of the technical approach. The achieved magnetic field strength, over 700,000 times that of Earth's geomagnetic field, also surpassed the previous world record of 323,500 gauss. Such magnets are also key components of magnetic confinement fusion devices, forming a "magnetic cage" that safely confines high-temperature plasma for sustained burning. ASIPP has long been engaged in fusion research and has recently achieved complete localization of superconducting materials, devices and systems. As the main unit of the Chinese mission of the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER), the institute has taken on many procurement packages, including superconductors, correction coils and magnet feeders. This photo taken on Sept. 28, 2025 shows the superconducting magnet developed by the Chinese Academy of Sciences' Institute of Plasma Physics (ASIPP) in Hefei, east China's Anhui Province. (Xinhua/Wu Huijun) THE COUNTDOWN begins for the fourth annual Feile Liam OFlynn, has begun Renowned Irish traditional flute player Mick OConnor was the guest of honour at the launch in Fletcher's in Naas recently. A lifelong friend of Liam OFlynn and author of In Safe Hands, which chronicles Dublins rich musical heritage, Mick brings a deep personal connection to Liams legacy and a wealth of stories from their shared musical journey. This intimate event set the tone for the upcoming festival, offering a taste of the spirit and community that defines Feile Liam OFlynn. Attendees can expect live music, reflections on Liams life and influence, and a warm gathering of musicians, friends, and fans in celebration of one of Irelands most beloved cultural figures. Feile Liam OFlynn takes place from Thursday 2 to Sunday 5 October, with performances from Brendan Begley, Caoimhin O Raghallaigh, Sharon Shannon, Luka Bloom, and many more. Events will span Naas and Kill, including instrumental workshops, family-friendly sessions, and the popular Try the Pipes experience. Christine McMahon, Grace Clancy-Hynan, Marie Speiran, Niamh and Emer McMAhon, at the launch Mary Ryan, chairperson of the organising committee, shared her excitement ahead of the launch: Kevin Conneff of the Chieftains fame performs a song at the launch of the programme for the 2025 Feile Liam OFlynn in Fletchers Lounge, Naas An evening with Mick OConnor is a beautiful way to begin this years Feile Liam OFlynn. Micks friendship with Liam and his deep knowledge of Irish music makes him the perfect person to help us honour Liams legacy. We invite everyone to join us at Fletchers Pub to celebrate the music, the memories, and the magic of Liam OFlynn. Tickets for Feile Liam OFylnn are available now via the Moat Theatre at www.moattheatre.com. Full festival details are available at www.feileliamoflynn.com. NEWBRIDGE-BASED artist Fiyin Oluokun has launched her debut solo exhibition, Family Trees Hang Over Property Lines, now showing at the Riverbank Arts Centre until 25 October. Fiyin was a recipient of the 2024 Emerging Visual Artist Bursary Award supported by Kildare County Council Arts Service and Riverbank Arts Centre, which allowed her to put the exhibition together. Tinu and Ademola Solan and Eiyin Oluokun Artist The series brings together Ms Oluokuns striking collage works exploring memory, cultural identity, and the subtle gestures that shape human connection, particularly through the Nigerian diaspora in Ireland. A final-year architecture student at UCD, Ms Oluokun explained how her path into collage emerged. We were doing collage as a design tool in college, but I really enjoyed it, so I started doing it on my own outside of architecture, she explained. Drawing inspiration from both her architectural training and her love of hip-hop sampling, she approaches collage as a way to remix existing fragments into new, layered meanings. Small Gestures Her exhibition centres on the theme of small encounters, or everyday moments that carry social, cultural and personal significance. She said: Ive been really interested in very small incidents, like my brother getting a nosebleed or my other brother breaking his arm. At first, I didnt realise there was a through line in my work, but when I put them together I could see these small gestures say so much about people and how they move through the world. This attention to the personal is intertwined with her exploration of cultural identity as a member of the Nigerian diaspora in Ireland. Klaudia, Oliwia, Fiyin Oluokun Artist Alliyah and Rebekah Family In one piece, Bent Knees, Fiyin reflects on Yoruba traditions of greeting elders. She explained: In Nigeria, women kneel fully and men lie down, but when people move to Western countries, that practice changes. You still bend your knees a little, but not fully. Youre still maintaining the original culture, but morphing it into something a bit more Westernised. Fiyins work opens up conversations about the creation of hybrid identities. Born in Ireland but spending time in Nigeria as a child, she has observed how cultural traditions shift across generations, even within her own family. The Gleeson family I think because Ive been living in Ireland my whole life, I was born here, but I spent more time in Nigeria when I was a kid than my brothers have. So I do carry a lot of that with me. But my brothers; theyre Irish boys. Though this is her first solo exhibition, Oluokun has previously taken part in pop-up exhibitions in Newbridge and contributed written and visual work to festivals and magazines. Letting Go She also writes spoken word poetry, often pairing it with her collages: Sometimes Ill make a collage and then write a poem around it, or vice versa. They usually go together, she said. Melanie Jephson, Alliyah Agoro and Rebekah Kavanagh For Fiyin, one of the most rewarding and challenging aspects of this exhibition has been letting go of ownership of the work. She said: I like to make art and then I have my own meanings around it, but then I feel like once its out there Ive kind of surrendered ownership a bit. People come in with their own interpretations. Matt Rafter and Em o Ceaillaigh On Culture Night, Friday, September 19, Fiyin led a guided gallery tour of her exhibition before joining a panel discussion alongside other artists and creatives, and on 16 October, Fiyin will be holding a collage workshop so if this is something that interests you, make sure to stop by. Ultimately, Fiyin hopes audiences leave her exhibition paying closer attention to the unnoticed details in everyday life. Enny, Fiyin, Artist Kemi and Seun Oluokun Family I guess just how people move through the world. Theres so many subtle gestures that I think go unnoticed. And it just says so much, she said. Ex-Ireland boss Martin O'Neill had the Late Late Show audience in stitches last night as he looked back on his five years working alongside Roy Keane, and shared some surprising advice about hugging the Corkman. Appearing on Patrick Kielty's couch on Friday, the former Republic of Ireland manager recalled how then-FAI chief John Delaney reacted when he first put Keane's name forward as his number two back in 2013. Kielty asked: "What was harder for you, convincing Roy Keane to be your assistant or convincing the FAI to allow Roy to be your assistant?" READ MORE | Search for woman (49) missing from home since Thursday stood down as gardai issue update "Well, funnily enough, John Delaney was in charge of proceedings. He wanted me to be the manager, and I said to him, 'What about an assistant?' I said, 'I've got one in mind,' and he said, 'Who would that be? '" O'Neill recalled. "I said 'Roy Keane' and then John fainted and fell down, because Roy had a spat with him some years earlier who has Roy not had a spat with? In fairness, when he recovered after about 20 minutes, he said, 'Okay, go with it.' And it was honestly terrific, we had a lovely time. The last year wasn't so good." The Kilrea man, who led Ireland to the last-16 of Euro 2016 with Keane by his side, was then shown photos of the pair embracing on the touchline. READ MORE | Ireland weather: Met Eireann warns of flooding and chilly nights as temperatures set to drop "This is long before Paudie was giving anybody a hug on The Traitors," Kielty joked, to which O'Neill quipped: "That was before I knew him. I wouldn't do that now. Definitely wouldn't. I'm older, a bit wiser, and Roy is having a beard." O'Neill wrapped up with a tongue-in-cheek warning: "Don't go near him with a beard. I know I've said this before, but it's worth repeating: when he's got that big beard, and he's got that big density in there, just don't touch him. Leave him alone." The former Celtic and Sunderland boss joined a stacked Late Late lineup that also included Nicola Sturgeon, comedian Neil Delamere, The Mary Wallopers, and survivors of the Miami Showband massacre. READ MORE | LATEST: House of Guinness makes Netflix history with first-of-its-kind as Gaeilge feature Kilkennys farming community is being warned to be on alert for fraudsters targeting business owners online, including farmers, with fake farm machinery sales. Fraudsters are directly targeting farmers with pop up social media ads, leading to bogus machinery websites. TAP HERE FOR MORE LOCAL NEWS In a warning, Bank of Ireland say fraudsters are highly skilled at creating fake websites that appear genuine and persuade customers to share their payment information or make a payment. Many scams are centred around vehicles like tractors, bailers, plough or seed drills, while others create websites to look like well-known companies. The purchaser is often lured by the false promise of a reduced price or bargain and asked to pay directly, sending money from their bank account to another via bank transfer. Once the payment is transferred, the seller usually cuts all contact, and the product or service doesnt arrive. Financial crime is a persistent and growing problem in our society, and no individual or type of business is safe from being targeted by fraudsters, said Nicola Sadlier, Head of Fraud, Bank of Ireland. One recent example of a purchase scam among the farming community involved a customer who found machinery on a website that looked similar to a popular online marketplace. They transferred 10,000 directly to the seller to secure the sale, but once the funds were sent the seller blocked the customer and no goods were ever received. If people suspect they have been a victim of fraud they should contact their bank immediately so that the bank can take action to stop a fraud in progress and try to recover funds. Bank of Ireland customers can call the Fraud Team 24/7, on the Freephone line 1800 946 764. Some advice to customers when making a purchase for their farm or business: Over the past number of weeks, the community of Coolagh has grieved the passing of some tremendous people who have made enormous contributions to their locality. Their contributions have been unequivocally above and beyond what was needed within their domain. Knowing the Coolagh way over a long number of years, they have a propensity in that small neck of the Callan parish to go the distance. I recently was privileged to write a eulogy about a departed daughter of Coolagh, Lena Sanders, but a short month ago yet another Coolagh icon, Mona Lyons passed to her well-earned place among the Heavenly Hosts. CLICK HERE TO READ MORE NEWS FROM CALLAN I can use such terminology with assurance as Mona Lyons was a God-fearing, generous woman who never placed herself ahead of a needy soul through her very long life. She was never first when it came to receiving plaudits, rather the opposite being the case; she was unobtrusively very much in the back row. She was so much part of the Coolagh way of doing things. Mona Lyons was a daughter of Tipperary, born into the Carrigan Family from Burnchurch, situated on one of the many hills of Killenaule in a valley between Graystown Castle and Moyglass. The year was 1936, and life was no bed of roses in Ireland at the time when the threat of war was feared around the world. With her three sisters and one brother, the family grew to cope with the lack of necessities such as running water and electricity, but they collectively worked hard off the land, and the four Carrigan girls became very adept at providing themselves with self-made clothing. Such a grounding in basic necessities were hugely important when Mona met Jack Lyons and became Mrs Lyons, moving to Bauntha at 23 years of age in 1959. It was a match made in Heaven - never was a partnership crafted so perfectly. Jack Lyons was a hard-working, articulate man who lived by the idiom that there was always a solution to a problem - and he always found it. But his young bride was no less talented. Her baking, jam making, tarts and knitting were without blemish. Lessons learned in the Hills of Killenaule were not wasted. Mona didnt take too long to immerse herself in the Coolagh way. As a young lady she often referenced the Harvest Dances held in the Carrigan household never to be forgotten. Later, in Bauntha, she befriended Peggy Saunders, a friendship that stood the test of time. With Peggy, she invested her time and expertise to generate badly needed funding for a Mission in Africa. The funding raised helped to build a school from the ground on the nominated Mission Field. dedication In 1998 the Coolagh committee made special presentations to Mona, Joan OKeeffe, Billy Maher and Lena and Mick Sanders for their dedication and long-standing support for the Coolagh Pattern. They generated sizeable sums of money which were directed to many needy causes over a very long number of years. Mona was involved with the running of the Parish Hall Committee and the halcyon days of the Callan Carnival, the brainchild of the dearly departed Fr Jack Kennedy which brought the town alive, adding a tremendous vibrancy to the place for two weeks. With Br Jacob, Fr Liam Dunne, Nora Comerford and Bernie ODwyer they were the founders of a camogie club in Callan, the fruits of which have become apparent over the past few years. She was heavily involved in the fundraising project that facilitated the building of Colaiste Eamon Ris - she had no inhibitions about participating in the 100-mile cycle fund raiser either, and she did it many times. She also loved playing cards in the Coolagh Hall, in particular 25s. There are so many references one could write about the Lyons team under the stewardship of Mona and Jack Lyons. As they say, behind every good man there is a better woman. Good decent people like Mona and Jack Lyons are a rarity, and should be celebrated. Of course they will be missed but a wide raft of people, but in particular by their daughters Bernie, Breda and Mary; their sons Joe, Adrian and John; grandchildren; daughters-in-law; sons-in-law; neighbours and friends. Monas Months Mind Mass will be celebrated on Sunday in the Parish Church in Callan at 10am. - BH JUBA, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- The 13th Chinese medical team in South Sudan on Saturday donated mooncakes, powdered milk and other gifts to children at the Confident Children out of Conflict orphanage in the country's capital, as part of Mid-Autumn Festival celebrations. Robert Bida Samson, executive director of the charity, praised the long-standing partnership with Chinese doctors, saying that it has reduced the orphanage's medical costs. "We are no longer facing major challenges on the issues of medicine and treatment," Bida said. The center currently cares for about 52 children, including some who fled fighting in neighboring Sudan, Bida added. Zhang Erqing, team leader of the 13th batch of the Chinese medical team, said they regularly visit orphanages in Juba and have brought mooncakes to symbolize unity and convey good wishes. Over the past 12 years, a total of 180 Chinese medical workers have served in South Sudan, treating more than 80,000 patients, performing over 1,400 surgeries and saving nearly 2,700 critically ill patients, Zhang said. The State Council Information Office holds a briefing on transportation services during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holiday in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 28, 2025. (Xinhua/Cai Yang) BEIJING, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- China is expected to see about 2.36 billion passenger trips nationwide during the eight-day National Day and Mid-Autumn Festival holiday starting Wednesday, the Ministry of Transport said Sunday. "Travel demand, whether for tourism or family visits, will be robust," Li Yang, vice minister of transport, told a press conference. Li estimated daily average trips at 295 million in this holiday period, a 3.2-percent increase compared to the same period of 2024. In particular, around 80 percent of these trips will be made by private vehicles. During peak periods, traffic volume on expressways could surpass 70 million vehicles per day -- with new energy vehicles accounting for 14 million, Li said. Meanwhile, airlines will handle 19.2 million passenger trips during the holiday, representing a year-on-year increase of 3.6 percent and marking the highest level recorded for this period. There will be a surge in medium- and long-distance travel, driven by a tourism boom, Li noted. While major domestic cities, including Shanghai in east China, southwest China's Chengdu and Beijing in the country's north, will see greater travel popularity than a year ago, a substantial increase in Chinese tourists is also projected for travel to international destinations such as Japan, the Republic of Korea and Southeast Asian countries. Moreover, freight transport levels are expected to remain stable, with the average daily volume of trucks on China's roads set to stay in the range of 5.5 to 5.8 million, largely consistent with figures from the same period last year, according to Li. Li stated that China's transport sector is geared up for the strong demand, pledging all-out efforts to ensure safe and smooth travel. Official data from the press conference also showed that in the first eight months of the year, the country's total passenger trips reached 45.55 billion, up 3.6 percent compared to the same period last year. In the January-August period, the commercial cargo volume nationwide hit 38.06 billion tonnes, up 3.8 percent year on year, and the port cargo throughput rose 4.4 percent to 12.03 billion tonnes. Express delivery parcel volume climbed to 128.2 billion, marking a robust 17.8 percent increase. Fixed-asset investment in the transportation sector stood at 2.26 trillion yuan (about 317.63 billion U.S. dollars). The State Council Information Office holds a briefing on transportation services during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holiday in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 28, 2025. (Xinhua/Cai Yang) TEHRAN, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- Iran's Foreign Ministry said on Sunday it considers the action taken by France, Britain and Germany, collectively known as the E3, and the United States, to reinstate the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) sanction resolutions on Iran as "illegal and unjustified." The ministry made the announcement in a statement, hours after UN sanctions against Iran came back into force 10 years after having been lifted under a 2015 nuclear deal, formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), between the country and world powers. It said that Iran "rejects the claim by the three European countries and the United States about the reinstatement of the previous resolutions that have been terminated under Resolution 2231 (that endorses the JCPOA) in 2015, and stresses that no obligation arises for UN members, including Iran, from the annulled resolutions' provisions and mechanisms." The statement called on all countries to refrain from recognizing the "illegal situation, which is in contradiction with UNSC Resolution 2231," accusing the E3 and the United States of "abusing" the dispute resolution mechanism of the JCPOA and Resolution 2231. According to the statement, Iran will firmly defend its rights and national interests, and any move aimed at harming those interests "will be met with an appropriate and resolute response." In a letter addressed to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Saturday, Iran's Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi said the invocation of the "snapback" mechanism to reinstate the UN sanctions was a "clear abuse of process," according to the ministry. Last month, the E3 formally invoked the snapback mechanism, which allowed for the re-imposition of UN sanctions within 30 days if Iran was deemed in breach of the JCPOA. On September 19, the UNSC failed to adopt a resolution that would have extended sanctions relief for Iran under the JCPOA. A subsequent resolution, which sought to grant a six-month extension to both the JCPOA and Resolution 2231, also failed to pass in the UNSC on Friday. The sanctions were re-imposed on Saturday evening. REHAB Enterprises in Portlaoise who employ people with disabilities is hosting an open day to showcase its inclusion and employment opportunities on Friday 3 October. The open day will offer an opportunity to local businesses, local institutions, community organisations and public representatives to see at first-hand the skills, innovation and contribution of its workforce. Part of the Rehab Group, Rehab Enterprises is a social enterprise operating a unique integrated employment policy. Its work supports a diverse customer base that spans the HSE, first responders, local authorities, SMEs and large multinational companies. By delivering reliable and cost-effective solutions, the enterprise demonstrates how commercial success can go hand in hand with a strong social impact. The open day at Rehab Enterprises Portlaoise factory at B4 National Enterprise Park, Clonminam will be held between 10.30am and 12 noon. It will showcase the diverse range of products and services delivered at the Portlaoise facility, including packaging, distribution and tailored business solutions for leading Irish companies. At the heart of the event is a clear message: meaningful work opportunities for people with disabilities strengthen businesses, communities, and society. Despite the talent and commitment on display at workplaces like Rehab Enterprises, Ireland continues to record one of the lowest employment rates for people with disabilities in the European Union. Fewer than one in three people with disabilities in Ireland are in paid employment, a figure that lags far behind the EU average. Director of Rehab Enterprises Kevin Gregory said: We are immensely proud of the dedication and professionalism of our employees here in Portlaoise, but Ireland needs to do more. Far too many people with disabilities are still excluded from the workplace, and this open day is about showing what is possible when barriers are removed. The event will also highlight Irelands poor uptake of Article 20 of the EU Public Procurement Directive, which permits governments to reserve contracts specifically for businesses that employ people with disabilities. While widely used in other European countries to advance inclusion, Irelands use of this tool remains limited. Mr Gregory said: Public procurement can and should be a driver of social change. Article 20 is a ready-made mechanism for building inclusive labour markets, yet Ireland has failed to harness its potential. Greater commitment in this area would unlock opportunities for thousands of people including employees of Rehab Enterprises. Businesses and public representatives are all invited to attend the open day to learn more about the achievements of the Portlaoise team but also to spark a wider conversation about the changes needed to make Ireland a leader in disability employment. ENDS Latina superstar Selena Gomez married producer Benny Blanco in Montecito, California, wearing a custom and very romantic Ralph Lauren gown designed for the occasion. The dress had a halter neckline with floral details, a structured bodice with draping across the torso, and a moderate train. The back was open, creating a contrast with the front of the gown, which was fully covered. The fabric was satin, hand draped and embroidered, made specifically for Gomez. Her styling followed a classic Hollywood approach. Her hair was set in wide, inward waves that framed her face and complemented the simplicity of the gown. For jewelry, Gomez wore two rings on her right hand, her engagement ring on her left, and large diamond earrings. Her bouquet was composed of white flowers surrounded by pale green leaves. The first look at the gown came from Gomez herself, who shared images on Instagram using a filter that resembled early home video cameras. The photos included close shots of her hands, her bouquet, her face, and Benny Blanco's reaction during the ceremony. No external photographs of the event were released, as the wedding was conducted under strict security. The choice of Ralph Lauren continues a pattern in Gomez's style. Earlier in 2025 she wore a custom Ralph Lauren dress to the Academy Awards. That design was inspired by Sophia Loren and covered in thousands of glass drops. It became one of her most notable fashion moments of the year. In past years, Gomez has also appeared at New York Fashion Week and other high-profile events in Ralph Lauren, establishing a long-standing relationship with the brand. For the wedding, Benny Blanco also wore Ralph Lauren, aligning both outfits under the same designer. The couple's decision to select the brand reflects its presence in their personal milestones as well as public appearances. The Montecito wedding joined a timeline of Gomez's collaborations with Ralph Lauren that have marked major points in her career and life. The wedding gown now becomes part of that history, linking her public image on red carpets with her private moment of marriage. Originally published on Enstarz The driver died in this crash Sept. 27, 2025, on Union Boulevard near Quebec Street in Allentown. Mike Nester | lehighvalleylive.com contributor A 25-year-old Allentown man died after crashing into a pole Saturday, according to authorities. The man struck the pole at 5:05 a.m. near Quebec Street on Union Boulevard in Allentown, according to city police. He was pronounced dead at the crash scene just after 6 a.m., according to the Lehigh County coroner. He died from multiple blunt force injuries, the coroner said. The manner of death was accident, he said. The coroner declined to release his name to allow the family to grieve the loss privately. An investigation continues with police and the coroners office. BEIJING, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping has urged Party schools to play a better role in cultivating talent and offering advice for the Communist Party of China (CPC). Xi, also general secretary of the CPC Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, made the remarks in an instruction on the work of Party schools (academies of governance). Since the 18th CPC National Congress in 2012, Party schools at all levels have continuously raised the quality of their teaching and research, making new progress and achievements in their work, Xi noted. Party schools should remain faithful to the Party and bear in mind their founding missions, Xi said, requiring the schools to make their education and training more targeted and effective through reform, while strengthening research and interpretation of the Party's new theories. Xi also emphasized the importance of cultivating competent officials and teachers, improving the management and supervision over students, and elevating the quality of Party school operation. Xi's important instruction was conveyed by Chen Xi, president of the Party School of the CPC Central Committee (National Academy of Governance), during a meeting on Party school work held in Beijing on Sunday. Chen called for high-quality work in nurturing talent and offering advice, and urged efforts to enhance the study of the Party's new theories. Chen Xi, president of the Party School of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee (National Academy of Governance), conveys Chinese President Xi Jinping's important instruction and delivers a speech during a meeting on Party school work held in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 28, 2025. Chinese President Xi Jinping has urged Party schools to play a better role in cultivating talent and offering advice for the CPC. Xi, also general secretary of the CPC Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, made the remarks in an instruction on the work of Party schools (academies of governance). (Xinhua/Shen Hong) The Pennsylvania Historical & Museum Commission has approved a historical marker commemorating Richard Puryear, a Black man who was lynched in Stroudsburg in 1894, following years of advocacy by local leaders and historians. The marker recognition represents the culmination of efforts led by state Rep. Tarah Probst, Pike County Commissioner and Monroe County NAACP Past President Christa Caceres, and the Monroe County Historical Association. Caceres, who became the first Black woman commissioner in Pike County, first brought Puryears story to Stroudsburg Borough in 2020, initiating the process that led to the markers approval. Puryear, a laborer, was accused of murdering Christian and Louisa Ehlers, who operated a store in Tannersville. However, the truth surrounding the accusations remains uncertain since Puryear never received a trial. While held at the Monroe County jail, a mob seized him and killed him, making his death one of only two documented lynchings recorded in Pennsylvania. The 1894 lynching occurred before the Poconos region gained national recognition as a tourist destination. Puryears story demonstrates that racial terror extended beyond the South and occurred throughout the United States. This is not only Monroe Countys history, but also Americas history, Caceres said. By acknowledging what happened to Richard Puryear, we join communities across the nation in confronting racial violence and building a more honest collective memory. The markers timing coincides with Pennsylvanias preparation for the nations Semiquincentennial celebration in 2026. Officials say including Puryears story among this years historical marker dedications emphasizes the importance of examining both struggles and achievements that have shaped the commonwealth. The marker will be installed in Stroudsburg within the coming year. A dedication ceremony will be announced in the coming months. Generative AI was used to structure and organize this story, based on data provided by state Rep. Tarah Probsts office. It was reviewed and edited by lehighvalleylive.com staff. The state Department of Conservation and Natural Resources has opened nominations for Pennsylvanias 2026 Trail of the Year, giving residents the opportunity to showcase their favorite trail from the states extensive 14,000-mile network. Nominations must be submitted online by Oct. 31, with supporting documentation required for consideration. Visit pacedc.powerappsportals.us/trail-introduction for full details. The winning trail will receive recognition through a news release, a commemorative poster for statewide distribution, a trailhead marker, and a grant for educational programs promoting safety and environmental protection. Trails are an important part of what makes Pennsylvania a special place for outdoor recreation, and we are excited to open up nominations for this prestigious honor, said DCNR Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn. The Commonwealth has some of the best natural resources in the nation, and uplifting our trails is essential to the future of our outdoor recreation industry. The annual designation by the 20-member Pennsylvania Trails Advisory Committee highlights the value of the states trail network and raises awareness of the economic, environmental and health benefits trails bring to communities. The committee represents both motorized and non-motorized trail users and guides Pennsylvanias strategy for developing a statewide land and water trail network. Trails play a critical role in Pennsylvanias $19 billion outdoor recreation economy. The Path of the Flood Trail in Cambria County earned the 2025 designation. The 14-mile corridor traces the historic route of the 1889 Johnstown Flood and features landmarks including the Staple Bend Tunnel, the first railroad tunnel built in the United States. Opening the 2026 nominations comes as the DCNR has also added two new trail gaps to its Top 10 priority trail list: the Three Rivers Heritage Trail between Etna and Millvale boroughs and the Armstrong Trail in Allegheny Township. Both projects are part of the emerging Erie to Pittsburgh Trail, a 270-plus mile network connecting landscapes and outdoor recreation opportunities across the region. The DCNR says Gov. Josh Shapiros administration has closed four of the Commonwealths Top 10 priority trail gaps in the past two years, including funding celebrated this summer for the South Bethlehem Greenway. DCNR prioritizes gaps that would connect existing trail sections, require construction or rehabilitation of major infrastructure, have large funding needs generally over $1 million, and require interagency coordination. The 2026 Trail of the Year winner will be announced in early 2026. Generative AI was used to organize and structure information for this story, based on data provided by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. It was reviewed and edited by lehighvalleylive.com. Here's everything you need to know about season 3 of "Tulsa King." Paramount+ "Tulsa King" is back! After a shocking twist at the end of episode one spoiler alert a ruthless murder, the second episode of the latest season has dropped. Episode two, titled The Fifty, is available now to stream, and the episode has newcomer Jeremiah Dunmire (played by Robert Patrick) warning Dwight Manfredi (Sylvester Stallone) that hes not a man to f*ck with and threatening to destroy everything Dwight has built in Tulsa. Heres everything you need to know about Tulsa King and how to watch season three of this hit Paramount+ series. What time does Tulsa King air? New episodes of Tulsa King are released on Paramount+ every Sunday at 12 a.m. PT, 3 a.m. ET. This isnt cable or Disney+, so you dont need to set your clock for new episodes; they drop in the middle of the night. Episode two of the series airs today, Sunday, September 28. There are nine episodes total in season three, and each new episode will air on Sundays now through November. See the full schedule below: Tulsa King episode release schedule Episode 1, Blood and Bourbon Sunday, Sept. 21 Episode 2, The Fifty Sunday, Sept. 28 Episode 3, The G and the OG Sunday, Oct. 5 Episode 4, Staring Down the Barrel Sunday, Oct. 12 Episode 5, On the Rocks Sunday, Oct. 19 Episode 6, Bubbles Sunday, Oct. 26 Episode 7, Art of War Sunday, Nov. 2 Episode 8, Nothing Is Over Sunday, Nov. 9 Episode 9, Dead Weight Sunday, Nov. 16 How to watch Tulsa King How to watch Tulsa King Youll need to sign up for Paramount+ to watch this series, or you can buy each episode individually on a streaming service like Apple TV Plus. This is a streaming exclusive show, meaning you cant watch this series on regular cable TV. The same goes for the spinoff show, NOLA King, that is in the works at Paramount. You can get a free 7-day trial of Paramount+ before committing to the service. Once your free trial has ended, you can either opt for the monthly plan or the annual plan. Plan Cost Free Trial? Paramount+ Essential Monthly $7.99 Yes Paramount+ Premium Monthly $12.99 Yes Paramount+ Essential Annual $59.99 Yes Paramount+ Premium Annual $119.99 Yes Tulsa King comes from Yellowstone creator Taylor Sheridan and follows Sylvester Stallone as Dwight Manfredi, along with a cast of returning and new faces. The series description reads: After serving 25 years in prison, Dwight Manfredi is unceremoniously exiled by his mob boss to set up shop in Oklahoma. Dwight slowly builds a new criminal empire in a place that to him might as well be another planet: Tulsa. Edward Saultz and Dustin Pierce were sworn in to the Phillipsburg Town Council by Attorney Richard Wenner on Feb. 12, filling seats left vacant by sudden resignations. Glenn Epps Phillipsburgs town council narrowly approved an ordinance Wednesday to establish a new citizens advisory board, replacing the previous two-person committee with an expanded structure aimed at increasing resident involvement in local government. The ordinance, authored by Councilman Dustin Pierce received support from only two-thirds of the council at its second reading. Council members Lee Clark and Keith Kennedy opposed the measure, arguing officials should work within existing collaborative frameworks instead. The new board replaces the Citizens Advisory Committee that was governed under Section 360-10 of Chapter 360 in Land Use Procedures, which the council voted to repeal. Pierce said he hopes the expanded board will encourage residents to take a more active role in local government administration. The advisory board will handle civic education and community engagement through outreach programs, forums and public events. Members will also provide input on proposed legislation, municipal decisions and budget priorities affecting Phillipsburg residents, according to Pierce. Board membership will include two residents from each official voting district, plus one town council member and one mayoral appointee. Alternates from any district can fill vacancies to maintain continuity. Members will serve two-year staggered terms with a limit of three consecutive terms. The board will meet bimonthly and must comply with the New Jersey Open Public Meetings Act. Kennedy expressed concerns that the advisory committee could become divisive, warning it might become a sore point for political partyism and closed-door cronyism. Pierce defended the initiative, saying residents currently lack meaningful opportunities for civic participation. Ive lived here all of my life and not once has there been a place for residents to have a say, Pierce said. Council meetings are not the place for that. Council meetings are a place for people to complain about everything that is wrong or that they dont like ... but they never say how can I help? This is the opportunity. A woman who was insured through Revolut had an "extraordinary" amount of unopened emails and was unaware her insurance had been cancelled, a sitting of Portlaoise District Court was told. Rebecca Ann Lane (26) of Ashgrove, Mountmellick, admitted driving without insurance at Harbour Street, Mountmellick, on March 14 last. Andrew Dunne BL said the insurance policy the woman had through Revolut had been cancelled. An email confirmed the cancellation got lost in her emails and she had an extraordinary amount of unopened emails, he told Judge Andrew Cody. He said the woman works for the Irish Prison Service and was training in Dublin at the time the email arrived. Judge Andrew Cody noted the cancellation was made on December 17. This is four months later, she is still driving, he said. Mr Dunne said matters were immediately rectified once she became aware of them. Judge Cody examined the cancellation email and said she was insured with AIG, not Revolut. Mr Dunne said it may be underwritten by AIG but it is Revolut insurance. He said it was a genuine error by his client. He said she has no intention of ever appearing before the courts again and she was apologetic. Judge Cody fined the woman 750 but didnt impose a disqualification. Children are being taught in prefabs and a principal is operating out of an office beside a community hall cloakroom because work on a new special school in Laois has stalled. Students had moved out of Saplings Special School in Graiguecullen while work began on the new school building. That work stalled a year and a half ago and the new building now has weeds growing around it. Students are being taught from prefab buildings at a temporary site in Killeshin while they wait for the new Saplings Special School building to be completed. The issue was raised in the Dail with Minister for Special Education John O Mahony by Independent Laois TD Brian Stanley. He said there was a shortage of special school places in the county for children with profound disabilities which needed to be addressed. Dep Stanley said the construction work started on a new school in March 2023, However, after ground works were carried out and the walls were built on the greenfield site at Fruithill, provided by Laois County Council, work stopped in late 2023. The school was told that work would resume but no details were given. Two years have passed. I am aware that funding for this project was not provided by the Department of Education, but it needs to be progressed, he said. He said the funding was being made available through a programme handled by the Department of Justice which was now closed. This must be sorted out. That programme is now closed, but the Saplings school is only half built. The project needs to be got up and running again. The application was made in the pre-Covid years, so the building costs have escalated massively. That is the reality. As I understand it, 4 million was allocated by the Department of Justice. But the Department of Justice cannot fund it because the programme to which I refer is closed, he said. He said it cannot be done through private donations because there is a gap of between 2.6 million and 3 million. The school, which has 30 special, high-dependency students, cannot raise in the region of 3 million. Currently, the school is located in Killeshin village in prefabs. The principal's office is in an adjacent cloakroom in the local community hall. The site where the new school is to be built has bushes and weeds growing up around it, he stated. He asked the Minister of State and his officials to come respond to his request in relation to the matter. He again stressed the need for more special needs school places. Four new classrooms have been promised at St Francis Special School which is to get two modular classrooms in the meantime. The modular classrooms are expected to be delivered this month. In the context of an issue I raised regarding St Francis school, I acknowledge that the two modular classrooms are being provided. I acknowledge the Minister of State's work on that, said Dep Stanley. I know I raised it with the Minister of State before and I acknowledge that, but the Saplings school, at the other end of county, needs help and I ask him to come back to me on it, Dep Stanley concluded. New figures show an above-average number of days lost by post-primary students in Laois, where the rate of children missing secondary school for more than 20 years is also higher than the national average. The latest Tusla Education Support Service (TESS) Annual Attendance Report and Student Absence Report for the 2023/2024 school year also reveals that about one and ten children are being taken out of school for holidays. The report also reveals that Laois secondary schools have no explanation for nearly half of the days lost by pupils. In Laois, there were 61,704 lost primary school days and 32,548 days missed by post-primary students in the last school year. The findings caused TESS to comment in a statement issued to the Leinster Express / Laois Live that announced the launch of a new campaign to reduce absenteeism. "Children and young people in Laois are missing a concerning number of school days each year," said The data shows for Laois primary schools that the number of days lost by students level represented 8.1% of the total school days in the 2023/24 school year. The national average is 8%. In Laois post-primary schools, the number of days lost by students represents 12.2% days of the total school days. That's above the 11.3% national average. The data published today has shown that there has been a reduction in the level of chronic absenteeism (20+ days missed) in schools but that levels are still higher than pre-pandemic figures: In Laois primary schools, some 22.5% of students missed 20 days or more. This rose to nearly a quarter, (23.8%), of students in post-primary school missed 20 days or more in the 2023/24 school year. The report contains reasons why children are missing school. MORE BELOW PHOTO. Aine OKeeffe, Director of TESS, speaking at the launch of a nationwide school attendance campaign at Gardiner Street Primary School in Dublin At primary level, illness was the main standalone reason at 33.6% (7,898 days) for missing school in Laois. However, 8,904 lost days or 37.8%, could not be explained. About one in ten children were taken out of school for holidays during the school term, excluding permitted holidays. A total of 2,680 days, or 11.4% of days were lost for this reason in Laois. Figures for Laois secondary schools show that 10,808 or 34.1% of days were lost due to illness, with unofficial holidays representing just 682 or 2.1%. The figure for unexplained lost days in Laois was 15,002 or 47.3% of total days missed by secondary school students. The report shows that the number of students who miss more than 20 school days in secondary school is more than double what it was before the pandemic. The problem is improving since the peak of the pandemic years - nearly 45% missed 20 or more days in 2021/22. However, the 23/24 rate in Laois of nearly 24% is more than double the 11% rate of 2019/20. There was no pandemic surge at primary school chronic absenteeism in Laois, where the figure is now 12.2% compared with 11.7% in Laois. READ ALSO: Party time in Laois for Portarlington debs The figures from Laois and other counties have led the Tusla Education Support Service (TESS) to launch a national campaign to promote regular school attendance in all counties across Ireland. TESS says that nationally more than one in five children and young people at primary and post-primary levels miss more than 20 days of their school year. Please allow ads as they help fund our trusted local news content. Kindly add us to your ad blocker whitelist. If you want further access to Ireland's best local journalism, consider contributing and/or subscribing to our free daily Newsletter . Support our mission and join our community now. Irish holidaymakers heading to Spain are being urged to take extra care as the country braces for a bout of "extreme risk" weather that could dump up to 180mm of rain in just a few hours. Spain's official meteorological service, AEMET, has issued red alerts along the eastern coastline, including the popular regions of Valencia, Castellon, and Tarragona, warning that torrential downpours could lead to dangerous flooding and travel disruptions. According to the alert, the most severe conditions are expected between Sunday night and late Monday, with the possibility of flash floods as the rain falls in sudden, heavy bursts. READ MORE | RIP: Heartbreak as 'exceptional' young Irish firefighter and dad-of-two 'taken too soon' AEMET said: "Accumulated precipitation in 12 hours: 180 mm. The 180 mm can accumulate in just 3 or 4 hours." Irish forecaster Alan O'Reilly, who runs Carlow Weather, echoed the concern in a post on X, writing: "Red warnings issued for parts of Spain today and Monday including Tarragona, Castellon and Valencia. Significant risk of flooding and flash flooding so take great it holidaying in those areas over next 48 hours." The agency also warned of thunderstorms and possible hail, as well as plunging daytime temperatures in the affected areas. Locally torrential rainfall is forecast for the Mediterranean coast, the Balearic Islands, and the Alboran region, as the remnants of ex-Hurricane Gabrielle move over the Iberian Peninsula. READ MORE | 'A pricey pizza' - Brazen driver's takeaway trip backfires after gardai add a premium Other parts of Spain, including Andalusia, Catalonia, and the Balearics, are expected to experience unsettled conditions with overcast skies, heavy showers, and strong winds. Maximum temperatures are also expected to dip sharply inland. The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has reminded Irish citizens in Spain to stay alert. Its website warns: "Spain can at times experience extreme weather conditions. Citizens are advised to check the latest weather information before they travel and to follow the advice of the local authorities." The DFA advises visitors to monitor local media and social media, and to carry the local emergency number, 112, which has English-speaking operators available. Irish citizens can also keep up to date by following the Irish Embassy in Madrid on X at @IrlEmbMadrid. With thousands of Irish people travelling to Spain every week, officials are urging caution. As the DFA notes: "Visitors to Spain are advised to follow the guidance of national and local authorities and stay fully informed of what's going on by monitoring local news and social media." Leitrim activist and a founding member of Dublin Pride and NorthWest Pride, Izzy Kamikazee, is among the diners in Dinner with the Enemy, which lands on Virgin Media Play and Virgin Media One on Monday, October 6 and will run for six weeks. This daring social experiment is a gripping super-sized version of the original Irish format Eating with the Enemy, made by Animo TV. This is the most unlikely dinner party ever seen on Irish television as 10 people with polar opposite views and opinions sit across from each other for a fiery week of debate and conversation, with psychotherapists Daniella Moyles and Dr Richard Hogan watching from the sidelines, decoding every glance, every outburst and every silence. The ten diners come from all walks of life and from every corner of Ireland; they have experienced everything from poverty and racism to assault. They are carers, activists, office workers, mums and dads, sons and daughters. However, they are not the same they have very different world views. This series will bring them face to face with their perceived enemies. Each night, they're served not just food, but moral dilemmas, divisive social issues, and deeply personal questions. READ NEXT: Unlocking the Western Corridor: Major business event comes to Leitrim Izzy Kamikazee has lived in Leitrim for over 20 years and has worked for many years in services for homeless people, providing support around housing needs, addiction and social integration. She is passionate about these topics and advocates for the human rights of minorities, including refugees, asylum seekers and LGBTQ+ people. Those taking part alongside Izzy Kamikazee include Andy Lee, a self-made man who comes from Dublins inner city. He has overcome extreme poverty to become Irelands most famous porn star. Amy Nicole Byrne from Dublin has studied law and currently works as a practise manager of a veterinary team. Ben Scallan also from Dublin is a political correspondent for Gript Media, while Jacob Donegan who hails from Meath works as a tyre mechanic. Also taking part in the show are Fiona McCormack from Cavan who works as a carer for people with intellectual disabilities and motivational speaker Tayem Mercer who lives in Dublin. READ NEXT: New data lays bare Leitrim's persistent unused dwellings problem Activist Natasha OBrien will be known by many for raising awareness of violence in Irish society advocating for the rights of victims in the Irish justice system. Sophie McGuinness is a model and podcaster from Dublin, while Architectural Technologist Dermot Collins is from Laois. Over the course of the series, the audience can expect new dinner guests to join the table to discuss cultural hot topics, as well as moral and societal questions that reveal how were all shaped by our cultures, experiences, and values. The robust debate around the table will invite the audience to question where they stand on the big societal issues of today. In a world of algorithm dictated discourse how would we cope when face to face with opposing views? The series will feature challenges designed to test group dynamics at the table. Themes such as groupthink, teamwork, unconscious bias, prejudice and power dynamics will be observed and allowed to play out as the experiment asks: once we peel back assumptions, labels and political allegiances, can we humanise each other rather than demonise? READ NEXT: Hope for patients in Sligo-Leitrim area as new cancer bus securing nears completion The week of unpredictable dinners concludes with a final challenge testing the diners ability to reach consensus. Dinner with the Enemy starts Monday, October 6 and runs for six weeks on Virgin Media Play and Virgin Media One at 9pm. UNITED NATIONS, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Saturday that the "snapback" mechanism for sanctions against Iran was a trap. The mechanism was included in UN Security Council Resolution 2231 that endorsed the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, following direct negotiations between the Iranian foreign minister and then U.S. secretary of state at the time, Lavrov told reporters. This mechanism is not a typical arrangement, he said, adding that in essence, it allows any party to put sanctions relief to a vote and a Security Council member with veto power could unilaterally block it, opening the way for the return of sanctions. The Iranians agreed to it because they had never anticipated a U.S. withdrawal from the deal in 2018, said Lavrov, who was involved in the negotiations for the deal, formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). After the U.S. withdrawal, Europe, instead of demanding that the United States go back to its obligations, also started to shy away from commitments to the deal. The Europeans are now cherry-picking what they want from Resolution 2231, said Lavrov. "And what they want is this exotic mechanism for a snapback." The snapback mechanism was created as a trap for Iran, just yet another piece of proof that Iran did not intend to violate its commitments to the nuclear deal, he said. The UN Security Council failed on Friday to adopt a resolution drafted by China and Russia that would have extended the JCPOA and Resolution 2231. Lavrov warned against launching the procedure for the restoration of sanctions against Iran, noting that "it will deal a major blow to the credibility and the authority" of the United Nations. Under Resolution 2231, the UN sanctions in place before the adoption of Resolution 2231 in 2015 would resume 30 days after the notification, unless the Security Council adopts a resolution to decide otherwise. "We wanted to extend the Iran nuclear deal in its entirety without adding anything or crossing anything out in all its aspects, so it would continue to be in place for the time when we hoped we could continue negotiations," Lavrov said Saturday, adding that Iran is still prepared to have dialogue, maybe an indirect one through mediators and with the three European participants (E3) of the Iran nuclear deal -- Britain, France, and Germany. Iran was holding conversations with the E3 lately. However, the outcome of those negotiations just proves that from the very beginning, the European trio was trying to find any pretext to bring back sanctions, he said. The E3 recently said that they have triggered the snapback mechanism, by notifying the Security Council of Tehran's "significant non-performance" on Aug. 28. However, the legality of the E3's move has been questioned as it has skipped the Dispute Resolution Mechanism provided for in the Iran nuclear deal and Resolution 2231. Both Iran and Russia stated that the snapback of sanctions is legally null and void as the E3 were not in good standing to activate the mechanism. WASHINGTON, Sept. 27 (Xinhua) -- U.S. President Donald Trump said Saturday that he will deploy troops to Portland, the state of Oregon, to handle "domestic terrorists." "I am directing Secretary of War, Pete Hegseth, to provide all necessary Troops to protect War ravaged Portland, and any of our ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) Facilities under siege from attack by Antifa, and other domestic terrorists," Trump said in a social media post. Portland Mayor Keith Wilson said in a statement in early September that, like other mayors across the country, he had not requested nor did he need "federal intervention." On Saturday, Wilson said that "the number of necessary troops is zero, in Portland and any other American city" after Trump ordered "all necessary Troops" to the city. Trump had earlier deployed troops to Los Angeles and Washington, D.C., which drew protests. RITA OShaughnessy from Limerick city has won the prestigious Carer of the Year Award at the 2025 Home & Community Care Ireland (HCCI) Home Care Awards. On selecting the winner, the categorys judge, David Brady of Spry who sponsored the awards said: The standard of this years nominees was truly exceptional. Spry Finance were inspired by the calibre of individuals who have entered the care profession in recent years, many of whom transitioned from other industries. David added: Among this outstanding group, one nominee stood out: Rita from Irish Homecare embodies everything we value in a carer - compassion, professionalism, and a relentless drive to improve. What makes her truly remarkable is how she has embraced continuous learning, pursuing further education to deepen her knowledge and enhance the quality of care she provides. READ MORE: Spook-fest in Limerick as Halloween set to be celebrated in style David said Rita's colleagues speak of her with admiration and warmth, sharing countless stories of her going above and beyond - whether its in sunshine, pouring rain, or even snow. Her enthusiasm is infectious, and her kindness is evident in every interaction. She brings dignity, respect, and genuine joy to her clients, making a meaningful difference in their lives. The judge continued: It is this blend of heart, skill, and dedication that made her the clear choice for HCCI Carer of the Year. She is not only an outstanding carer - she is a shining example of what the future of care can and should look like. Every nominee brought something special to the table. They demonstrated unwavering commitment, quiet leadership through action, and a deep sense of purpose. Each one reminded us of the profound impact carers have - not just on the lives of those they support, but on the wider community. Joseph Musgrave, CEO of HCCI commented: We are very lucky to have people like Rita working in home care. Her dedication and drive make a real difference to clients and their families. Sincere congratulations to Rita on her well-deserved recognition. He added: I would like to sincerely thank our event sponsor Gallagher whose support made this ceremony possible, as well as Leading Healthcare Providers Skillnet, Spry Finance, Bank of Ireland, the Access Group, PASS, RCSI Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery and Good People for their sponsorship of individual awards." We are also very grateful to our independent judges for their time and expertise. And thank you to all our members who nominated colleagues for the awards. Home & Community Care Ireland (HCCI) is the voice for home and community care providers across Ireland. Their mission is to drive policies that sustain the sector, guaranteeing the highest standards of care for people whether services are publicly funded or privately sourced - and uphold the wellbeing of their workforce. LIMERICK took centre stage at the first European and North American Learning Cities Forum in Evry-Courcouronnes, France. Representing Learning Limerick, Michael MacCurtain of Limerick Chamber Skillnet, presented the citys innovative approach to lifelong learning at the UNESCO supported event on September 11 and 12. Limerick joined Cork, Waterford, and Belfast in showcasing Irelands commitment to inclusive education. Michael delivered a presentation highlighting key initiatives, including the Limerick Lifelong Learning Festival, now in its 15th year, and the Learning Ambassador programme. READ MORE: New bins in Limerick aimed at students 'who buy a lot of pizza' The 2025 April festival featured over 120 free events under the theme Literacies for Life, expanding learning to areas like digital, financial, and health literacy. The festival has become a real showcase of whats possible when a whole city commits to learning. Its not just about one week in April, its about creating connections, opening doors, and showing that learning is for everyone, said Michael. Eimear Brophy, Chair of Learning Limerick, noted the power of collaboration saying, Limericks Learning Festival is a practical expression of lifelong learning in action. It demonstrates how education and training providers can work hand in hand with communities to make learning accessible, inclusive, and inspiring, said Eimear. Organised with UNESCO's support, the forum brought together learning cities from across Europe and North America to share best practices. Limericks participation underscores its growing reputation as a leader in lifelong learning and community-driven education. THE UNIVERSITY of Limerick and Edwards Lifesciences have signed an agreement to accelerate medical device innovation and talent development. UL and Edwards Lifesciences, the leading global structural heart innovation company, have formalised a long-standing working relationship through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). The newly signed MOU formally signals the intent to collaborate in key areas including innovation, joint projects, research initiatives, and educational programs. This strategic alignment will also see Edwards Lifesciences leveraging ULs expertise, as it establishes a new process automation team in Ireland. The agreement strengthens an already robust connection, paving the way for transformative collaboration in research, education, and innovation. Joe Nuzzolese, corporate vice president, Global Supply Chain and Quality of Edwards Lifesciences said: This agreement reflects our shared commitment to advancing innovation and education. We are excited to work with the University of Limerick, as we build out a Process Automation team in Ireland and explore new ways to enhance our manufacturing processes. READ MORE: Limerick authors on list of best Irish children's books of 2025 Professor Kenneth Stanton, executive dean of ULs Faculty of Science and Engineering said: We were delighted to welcome the senior representatives from Edwards Lifesciences to our campus and to explore the ways in which we can work together to achieve excellence in research, training, and graduate opportunities. The MOU signing event was marked by positive intent from both sides, and we look forward to the successes in the years ahead, Prof Stanton added. The signing ceremony was held at Plassey House, where guests were treated to a musical performance by students from the Irish World Academy of Music and Dance and was also attended by Professor Ann Ledwith, interim provost and deputy president at UL, Kristen Lynch, VP of Supply Chain Finance and Nate Arnim, VP of Engineering, both Edwards Lifesciences. Professor Sarah Hudson, director of the Bernal Institute at UL commented: It was a pleasure to welcome Edwards Lifesciences to the Bernal Institute, and we are looking forward to building a strong and innovative academic and industry research collaboration programme together over the coming years. This MOU is the first step. Edwards Lifesciences has also previously collaborated with ULs Bernal Institute, leveraging their expertise for problem-solving and research support. THERE was udder chaos on a major Limerick route this weekend after over 100 cattle broke out. Clips of cattle on the moo-ve on the Dock Road roundabout have been shared widely on social media. READ NEXT: The final school run: School bus driver bids emotional farewell to County Limerick pupils One motorist caught up in the traffic incident on Friday night posted: Somewhere in Limerick there is one upset farmer. They also said, A full herd up through the Limerick Tunnel. However, it is not confirmed if the cattle did come out on the Dock Road via the tunnel. Contact has been made with the operators of Limerick Tunnel. TII posted on X (formerly Twitter) at 8pm on Friday night: Animals on road on Limerick Tunnel between J2-Dock Road and J3-Coonagh (Northbound). In a follow up post 18 minutes later, TII said the incident had been cleared. A garda spokesperson confirmed gardai attended the scene of cattle on the Dock Road West Roundabout, Limerick on Friday, September 26 at approximately 8pm. No injuries were reported, said a garda spokesperson. It is not known who owns the cattle or what field they broke out of. Thankfully there were no collisions due to the cattle and the animals didnt get spooked. The owner of the cattle is asked to contact Limerick Live at news@limerickeader.ie if they would like to thank people for helping to round them up. Mumbai, New Delhi: The co-founders of Fabindia Ltd's personal care subsidiary, Biome Life Sciences India Pvt. Ltd, have sued the apparel retailer in the Delhi High Court, seeking to enforce an exit clause they say value their shares at 196.16 crore. Shantanu Jain and Sania Arora Jain, who launched Biome Life Sciences LLP in 2019 that came under the Fabindia fold a year later, said in their petition that the retailer has breached their shareholder agreement (SHA) by failing to honour a "put option" that entitled them to sell their stake under a pre-agreed formula. Biome houses Fabindias personal care line of FabEssentials face washes, moisturizers, shampoos, and fragrances. Key Takeaways Biome Life Sciences co-founders, Shantanu Jain and Sania Arora Jain (who hold a 49.99% stake), are suing Fabindia to enforce a "put option" clause in their shareholder agreement (SHA). The founders allege that Fabindia breached the SHA by failing to honor the exit clause, which values their shares at 196.16 crore based on Biome's audited financials. The Jains have invoked the arbitration clause in the SHA. They also filed a petition in the Delhi High Court seeking an urgent order to compel Fabindia to deposit the full amount in an escrow account and to restrain the retailer from selling assets or diluting Biome's shareholding pending arbitration. Fabindia's spokesperson countered the allegations, claiming the founders had "neglected their responsibilities" and were guilty of "wilful misconduct and negligence." They argue the founders only raised the issue of the put option after being confronted with these alleged lapses. Both parties have nominated their respective arbitrators (retired Supreme Court judges), consenting to refer the core dispute to arbitration. The Jains sought urgent interim relief under Section 9 of the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, requesting the court to direct Fabindia to deposit the sum in an escrow account, even as they pursue arbitration to secure their claim. Origins Shantanu has over two decades of experience in womens personal care products and Sania is a biochemist trained at London's Imperial College, the petition said. They launched Biome Life Sciences LLP in 2019 to develop Ayurveda-based, science-backed personal care products. Their work caught the attention of William Nanda Bissell, Fabindia's managing director and former chairman. Bissell engaged the Jains first as consultants and later proposed a formal collaboration. Also Read | Fabindia pulls IPO Biome Life Sciences India Pvt. Ltd was incorporated in May 2020, with Fabindia holding a controlling stake. According to the petition, the SHA between Fabindia and the founders included a put option, which allows the founders to sell their shares to Fabindia at a valuation based on revenue or Ebitda. After a decline in business in FY24, Biome reported 21.6 crore in revenues from operations in FY25, per filings in the founders' petition, up nearly 28% year on year. Its profits after tax for the year were up more than 1.5x year on year to 7.1 crore. At the end of FY25, the founders held 49.99% stake in the company, while Fabindia owned the rest. The dispute In their court petition, the Jains alleged that while they took on active managerial roles, introduced new strategies, and developed products, Fabindia did not extend adequate support. In August this year, the Jains wrote to Fabindia that they wanted to exit, and valued their shareholding at 196.16 crore, based on Biome's audited financials. According to the petition, Fabindia was obliged to complete the payment within 15 days, a deadline that passed on 11 September. Instead, they say Fabindia responded belatedly, raising disputes not contemplated under the contract. The petition argued that this conduct was arbitrary and mala fide," designed to delay compliance, frustrate their exit, solely in an attempt to armtwist the petitioners. On 20 September 2025, the founders invoked the arbitration clause in the SHA, issuing a notice and nominating their arbitrator as per the agreements procedure. The very next day, Fabindia appointed its nominee arbitrator, consenting to refer the dispute to arbitration. On 24 September, the founders moved the Delhi High Court, which directed Fabindia to file its response in two weeks. The next hearing will take place on 19 November. Both parties have nominated retired Supreme Court judges as their respective arbitrators. They will now appoint a Presiding Arbitrator to complete the tribunal, lawyers for Biome's founders told Mint in an email. In their court petition, the founders also asked the court to restrain Fabindia from alienating its assets, diluting Biomes shareholding, or misusing Biomes fixed deposits except for routine business operations. It also sought directions compelling Fabindia to disclose its assets, file Biomes monthly financial statements, and maintain the current shareholding status of Bissell. The founders argue that such measures are necessary to prevent Fabindia from "dissipating assets", diluting its stake in Biome, and rendering any arbitral award in their favour unenforceable. Defence Fabindia claims the founders had neglected their responsibilities" and were guilty of wilful misconduct and negligence." A Fabindia spokesperson said the company chose the Jains for their expertise, but claimed they shrugged their responsibilities and raised the issue of put option" when confronted with lapses. With their respective qualifications and background, we chose them as a partner on their representations to expand the business to (the) next level," the spokesperson said. Fabindia gave them a free hand in this venture by appointing them as managing director and COO of Biome. They were to perform duties with integrity, and conduct in best interests of the company. Over the period of time, there was dereliction of their duties along with wilful misconduct and negligence and serious lapses were noticed on their part. When confronted with these lapses, they shrugged their responsibilities and raised the issue of put option." Also Read | How new GST slabs could transform India's apparel market Founded in 1960 by American John Bissell, Fabindia now operates as a large private platform connecting over 55,000 rural artisans to urban markets. The business focuses on retailing textiles, garments, home decor, organic foods, and personal care products, and currently maintains a substantial presence with hundreds of stores in India and a few internationally. The company had earlier planned to list on the stock exchanges, but withdrew its plan in February 2023, citing uncertain market conditions, but noted it might reconsider a public listing in the future. KABUL, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- More than 11 million students go to school in Afghanistan, a spokesman for the Ministry of Education, Qari Mansoor Ahmad Hamza, has said. "A total of 11,175,089 students go to school in Afghanistan," the state-run Radio and Television of Afghanistan (RTA) quoted Hamza as saying on Sunday. According to the official, there are a total of 18,621 schools in the country, with 3,215 of them being private schools and the remaining state-owned and public schools providing education to students free of charge. The Ministry of Education would spare no effort to provide high-quality education to children of the country, the official added. (Bloomberg) -- Denmark banned the use of civilian drones for five days next week as it steps up security ahead of a European Union summit in Copenhagen. The move is intended to eliminate the risk of confusing civilian-operated aircraft with hostile drones during the congregation of EU government leaders, the transport ministry said in a statement on Sunday. The ban follows a surge of drone incursions across the country in the past week. Military authorities reported new sightings near several defense facilities overnight, marking the seventh day of such incidents. Various capacities were deployed, the Danish Armed Forces said in an update on Sunday, without offering details. Police have been inundated with false alarms as public concern mounts, forcing them to raise the alert level. Authorities logged 500 reports in a single day last week. Security will be visibly tighter in the capital during the summit, where leaders are expected to discuss defense and security, including responses to hybrid threats and Russian violations of European airspace. Although investigators have yet to identify the source of the drone activity, Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has linked it to Russias efforts to destabilize Europe, an accusation Russia denies. Last week, sightings of large, professional-grade drones forced the temporary closure of several airports in Denmark, including Copenhagens commercial hub, sparking a large-scale police investigation. In recent days, the activity has centered around military facilities, including Karup, Denmarks biggest air force base, which detected drones in its vicinity late on Friday. The North Atlantic Treaty Organization, of which Denmark is a founding member, is deploying an air defense vessel to help counter the drones, according to TV2. The German warship, the FGS Hamburg, will patrol around Copenhagen during the high-level EU meeting, the broadcaster quoted NATO spokesperson Arlo Abrahamson as saying. More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com Waaree Energies has affirmed that the US investigation into an alleged solar tariff evasion will not impact its investment plans in the country, including the expansion of its Texas facility and plans of setting up a solar cell manufacturing capability to reduce dependence on imports. One of the largest vertically integrated solar modules manufacturers Waaree is currently under scrutiny by US customs officials, who launched an inquiry last week into whether the company bypassed tariffs on Chinese-made solar cells and panels by allegedly mislabeling them as manufactured in India. "The investigation has no impact on our investment plans. The Texas plant expansion from 1.6 GW to 3.2 GW is already underway," the firm noted, as reported by news agency PTI. Investigation and expansion plans unaffected The company is proceeding with its expansion plans for its US solar module manufacturing plant in Houston, Texas The facility, which began operations at the Houston plant in January this year with an initial installed capacity of 1.6 GW is currently being scaled up to 3.2GW by FY27. The company also highlighted that its recent acquisition of US-based Meyer Burger assets is further solidifying its long-term manufacturing footprint in the country. Response to the US customs investigation Waaree is cooperating with the US customs and and Border Protection (CBP) in its ongoing inquiry by providing them with all the necessary information, PTI noted. "As a responsible corporate citizen, we have consistently complied with all applicable local laws and regulations," the company said, adding "our internal assessment indicates no material duty exposure, and we continue to engage transparently with CBP throughout this process." Also Read | Waaree Energies says it will co-operate in ongoing US probe The company also confirmed there has been no operational disruption or financial impact from the inquiry, with its US manufacturing operations and customer deliveries continuing as planned. Future plans of the company Waaree is also exploring further localisation within the US, including the manufacturing of solar cells. It said that backward integration is a key strategic priority , and while the company already has significant solar cell manufacturing capability in India, it is exploring similar opportunities in the United States. We are evaluating options for US cell manufacturing in line with policy incentives and market demand, and any future investments will support our goal of becoming a holistic clean-energy transition company serving US customers end-to-end, the firm said in a statement. Also Read | Waaree ramps up US capacity with bargain buy, but controversies cast a shadow Also Read | Waaree Energies charged up on strong solar demand, but tariff concerns persist New Delhi: Quorum Club Pvt. Ltd, the luxury members-only club behind The Quorum, is set to invest 500-600 crore over the next five years to expand across geographies, co-founder and chief executive officer Vivek Narain told Mint . The firm will also evaluate projects in cities such as Pune, Goa and another location in the National Capital Region, he said. Quorum Club is rebranding its umbrella identity as Q Collective, and will also look to become a broader lifestyle hospitality business beyond its existing clubs in Gurugram, Mumbai and Hyderabad. We have been building capabilities for the last two years and were now at the stage of extending our business across lifestyle hospitality, including rooms. We are not only adding new cities but also evolving our offerings to include meeting and event venues, premium co-working spaces, and hotel rooms adjacent to or within our clubs," Narain said. Also Read | An American hotel chain has grand plans for India The company currently operates around 250,000 sq ft of luxury club space across its properties and expects to generate a turnover of about 200 crore in FY26, Narain said, up from 145 crore in FY25. About 50% of our business comes from membership fees, and the other half comes from sale of services like food and beverage, events and private functions. We generate nearly 100 crore annually from food and beverage alone," he said. For membership, the company has a one time fee of 5 lakh for a couple and annual membership charges of 1-2 lakh. Bengaluru club launch The upcoming Bengaluru club will span around 66,000 sq. ft and include 30 hotel rooms, is being built in partnership with local developer, The Machani Group. Rooms are within the club itself. This is a starting point to build a broader lifestyle hospitality ecosystem," Narain added. The company partners with real estate developers in some cases and in others, it leases properties to run its clubs. The Hyderabad club, in Knowledge City, developed in partnership with Sattva Group and Blackstone India Real Estate, is about 70,000 sq. ft., making it the companys largest facility to date. Also Read | Airfares to US spike amid H-1B visa confusion "Other than a few top-end boutique hotels, the rest are ordinary. Theres space to create authentic, design-driven, lifestyle concepts and thats what we aim to do. Before the pandemic, very rarely did people spend more than 10,000 on a hotel room. Now theres acceptance that you have to pay for quality and luxury, and spending on rooms worth 20,000-25,000 have become more acceptable. It used to be limited to a very small segment; now its getting broader," he added. Narain said the company is profitable and will fund most of its immediate needs internally. Over the next five years, "of the 500-600 crore, roughly 100 crore will come from capital we already have, and the rest from institutional funding. This will go into building more adjacent hospitality concepts and new club locations," he said. The company has around 5,000 members across its clubs, with plans to expand to 10,000 members with the addition of Bengaluru over the next couple of years. We like to have diversity in our membership, from young entrepreneurs to senior executives, and our spaces cater to different needs, from wellness and cultural programming to events and dining," he said. Quorum Club Pvt. Ltd was co-founded by Narain and his wife Sonya Jehan, an actor. It began operations in 2018 from Gurugram, followed by Mumbai in 2021, where it took over a 40,000 sq. ft club in Lower Parel, the earlier A Club. It launched its Hyderabad club this year and also operates District150, a meetings and events venture, and The Business Quarter, a co-working brand co-located with its clubs. Quorum Club's shareholders include Alok Oberoi, Gurmeet Nihal Singh, Sabre Advisors, Shon Randhawa, Sattva Group, and Karanpal Singh. In 2024, it sold 5% stake to Nikhil Kamath's Gruhas in pre-series A round funding. BENGALURU : Senior exits are testing Pristyn Cares leadership bench, raising questions over stability just as the unicorn doubles down on building its own hospital chain. The firm will see two of its key executives depart next month. Gaurav Bagga, the firms chief product and technology officer (who went by the title senior vice-president [SVP] of product and engineering), has stepped down from his role after a five-and-a-half-year stint, two people with direct knowledge of the matter told Mint . This comes nearly seven months after the firms finance head resigned. Bagga is currently serving his notice and will fully exit by the end of October first week, said the people cited above. Bagga and Pristyns co-founder and chief executive Harsimarbir Singh confirmed the development. As Pristyn moves into a deeper direction of building a nationwide hospital chain, Gaurav has chosen to amicably pursue new areas in technology, such as AI and data engineering. Our relationship goes far beyond being colleagues, and he will always remain a friend to me personally and to the company. His role will be taken up by our product and tech leaders who have also been with the firm for 6+ years," Singh said in response to Mints queries. Also Read | Beenext eyes early bets in speciality manufacturing Bagga, in a separate email, said, My move is simply about starting a new chapter where I can apply my experience in scaling platforms and driving AI-led transformation, while continuing to cheer for the success of Pristyn Care." Another key departure is that of Ramnik Kumar, who served as the vice president of finance for the last two years, said the two people quoted above. October 31 will mark Kumars last working day, they said. Ramnik is said to have been largely handling the finance department at Pristyn after the chief financial officers exit in March, according to one of the persons quoted above. Pristyns Singh, however, denied Kumars exit, while Kumar did not respond to Mints queries. His [Kumars] role is critical, and far from exiting, we are in fact reinforcing his team. Ramnik has been with us for two years," Singh said. The Peak XV and Tiger Global-backed company has seen a spate of top-level exits in the last few months. Mint had reported in February that the firms finance head Prabhat Agarwal was on his way out, following other key executives, including marketing head Gagan Arora, business and operations SVP Tarun Bansal, SVP of human resources Srinivas Reddy P., and head of medical directorate Shaloo Varma. Also Read | Pepperfrys acquisition exposes deep cracks in online furniture retail In his latest email, Singh denied the company was witnessing a leadership churn. With an average tenure of 5.5+ years across our top 50 leaders (essentially, the full lifespan of the company), the idea of leadership churn" or an unstable business" is simply not reflective of reality. Pristyn is in one of its strongest phases yet scaling rapidly, expanding into owned hospitals, strengthening teams, and delivering profitability." Founded in 2018 by Singh, Vaibhav Kapoor and Garima Sawhney, Pristyn Care (GHV Advanced Care Pvt Ltd) runs a network of hospitals and clinics through partners. It became a unicorn three years later, when it raised $100 million in Series E funding from Tiger Global Management, Hummingbird Ventures and others at a post-money valuation of $1.4 billion. Course correction In April, Mint reported that Pristyn was in talks with existing backers to raise capital to fund its expansion plans, a negotiation crucial for the firm's growth. In July, Peak XV and Hummingbird Ventures invested nearly $4 million in Pristyns parent company GHV Advanced Care Pvt Ltd, according to financial statements accessed by business intelligence platform Tofler. The additional capital was meant to help Pristyn expand its footprint of hospitals, a proposition it appears to have become serious about since the beginning of the current financial year. According to Singh, Pristyn has set up 11 hospitals across 5 cities since April, with three more in the pipeline for this month. By March 2026, we will reach 20 hospitals, making us the fastest to achieve such scale. Our hospitals are already operating at ~15% operating margin and are cashflow EBITDA positive. Alongside this, we recently added 800 medical and nursing staff, expanded to managing 300000 sq. ft. of hospital space with 700 beds," Singh noted. This foray is expected to drive up Pristyns revenues, with more than 30% of its overall business already coming from its own hospitals, according to Singh. The firm is also looking to acquire bigger hospitals that have the potential to generate ~ 100 crore topline with 20%+ Ebitda annually", according to Singh. Given the string of setbacks, Pristyns pivot to hospitals is less a strategic choice and more a matter of necessity," said a health-tech startup founder, asking not to be named. Pristyns pivot also comes when its consumer-facing business Beatxpthe vertical that the unicorn once pegged as its biggest assethas undergone a slew of changes in recent years. Mint reported earlier this year that Beatxp has pulled the plug on its smartwatches category after failing to see consistent demand. Moreover, the poor outcome from the acquisition of telemedicine platform Lybrate in June 2022, prompted the firm to switch gears. Pristyn Care is also in the midst of a legal battle with Saurabh Arora and Rahul Narang, co-founders of Lybrate, who allege the company failed to pay them in full for acquiring their startup in 2022. They moved a Delaware court in December 2023 to start arbitration proceedings against Pristyn Care, seeking $13 million in damages. In June 2022, Pristyn Care had acquired telemedicine platform Lybrate for a reported $20-30 million to enter primary healthcare. Mint had earlier reported the company no longer sees value in the deal and was phasing out the platform. Pristyn Cares parent GHV Advanced Care reported an operating revenue of 600 crore in FY24, up from 452 crore in the previous year, while its total expenses shot up to 1,013 crore in FY24 from 876 crore the previous year, per data from Tofler. The companys had a cash balance of 12.8 crore in FY24, while its bank balance and other equivalents were at 9.4 crore. While trade receivables were at 105 crore, the companys financial assets had dropped to 341 crore from 570 crore in the year before. GHV has not filed its FY25 statements yet. The government has signed agreements with 26 domestic and international companies, securing investment commitments worth 1.02 trillion in the country's food processing sector. The memorandums of understanding, signed during the four-day World Food India summit in New Delhi that concluded on 28 September, are projected to generate direct employment for over 64,000 people and create indirect opportunities for more than one million individuals in the country. Over the course of the four-day event, 26 leading domestic and global companies signed memoranda of understanding (MoU) worth a total of 1,02,046.89 crore, marking one of the largest investment announcements in Indias food processing sector, the ministry said in a statement on Sunday. Companies that signed the MoUs include Reliance Consumer Products, The Coca-Cola System in India, Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation (Amul), Fair Exports (India) Pvt. Ltd (Lulu Group), Nestle India, Tata Consumer Products Ltd, and Carlsberg India Pvt. Ltd. Also Read | This festive season, spread the joy of food Among other companies that signed MoUs include B.L. Agro Industries Ltd., Patanjali Foods Ltd, Godrej Agrovet Ltd, Haldiram Snacks Food Pvt. Ltd, Mrs. Bectors Food Specialities Ltd, and Dabur India Ltd. The event has not only attracted record investment commitments but also reaffirmed Indias position as a trusted global destination for food processing, the government said. The event has laid a strong foundation for sustainable growth, innovation, and international collaboration, further consolidating Indias leadership in shaping the future of global food systems, it added. The investment commitments are spread over a diverse sector such as dairy, meat and poultry, packaged foods, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, spices and condiments, confectionery, edible oils, fruits and vegetables, and ready-to-eat products. These investments are planned across the country including Gujarat, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Bihar, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Rajasthan, West Bengal, Assam, Chhattisgarh, Uttarakhand, Jammu and Kashmir, and other parts of the northeastern region. New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday urged citizens to commit to buying products manufactured in India. While referring to the discounts across sectors owing to the GST rate cuts on the Mann Ki Baat broadcast, Modi said: In the coming days, festivals and joys are coming up, one after another. We do a lot of shopping on every occasion. And this time, a 'GST Bachat Utsav' is also going on. Friends, you can make your festivals even more special by taking a resolve. If we decide to celebrate this festival only with Swadeshi products, you will see the joy of our celebrations rise manifold. Make 'Vocal for Local' your shopping mantra." Empower families and entrepreneurs Stressing on making the country self-reliant, he said, Resolve that for all times, you will buy only what is produced in the country. You will take home only what is made by the people of the country. You will use only those goods which bear the toil of a citizen of the country. When we do that, we don't just buy goods; we bring home hope to a family, honour the hard work of an artisan, and give wings to the dreams of a young entrepreneur. The government's renewed emphasis on self-reliance and indigenous goods comes in the backdrop of the hefty 50% tariffs imposed by the US on Indian exports. The prime minister asked all Indians to buy a Khadi product on 2 October, Mahatma Gandhi's birth anniversary. Observing that Khadi products have gained popularity in the past 11 years during the NDA government's regime, Modi said that the handloom and handicraft sectors are also witnessing significant changes in the country. Today, many examples are emerging in our country that show that when tradition and innovation are fused together, amazing results can be achieved. One example is Yaazh Naturals in Tamil Nadu. There, Ashok Jagdishan ji and Prem Selvaraj ji left their corporate jobs and took up a new initiative. They made yoga mats from grass and banana fiber, dyed clothes with herbal dyes, and provided employment to 200 families by training them. Ashish Satyavrat Sahu of Jharkhand has brought tribal weaving and garments to the global stage through the Johargram brand. Thanks to his efforts, people in other countries have also become aware of Jharkhand's cultural heritage. Sweety Kumari, from Madhubani district in Bihar, has also started Sankalp Creations. She has transformed Mithila painting into a means of livelihood for women. Today, over 500 rural women have joined her and are on the path to self-reliance. All these success stories teach us that our traditions hold innumerable sources of income. If our resolve is strong, success cannot elude us. October 2025 is set to bring a mix of thrillers, true crime, romance and anime to streaming platforms. Heres a guide to whats arriving and when. Check out the list of the upcoming major OTT releases Monster: The Ed Gein Story - October 3 - Netflix The third season of Netflixs Monster anthology dramatises the disturbing life of Ed Gein, the grave robber and murderer whose crimes inspired some of cinemas most enduring horror films. 2. Genie, Make a Wish - October 3 - Netflix This 12-episode fantasy drama stars Bae Suzy as Ka-young and Kim Woo-bin as the Genie. When a lonely woman awakens a Genie who has been trapped for 1,000 years, he seeks to prove that humans cannot resist corruption. 3. Steve - October 3 - Netflix Cillian Murphy stars in this tense one-day drama about a reform school head teacher struggling to manage his troubled students while facing challenges of his own. 4. Spy Family Season 3 - October 4 - Netflix / Crunchyroll The Forger family return with more espionage, secrets and heartwarming moments. Season 3 continues to balance the absurdity of spy life with the bonds of family. 5. True Haunting - October 7 - Netflix A chilling docuseries that blends immersive reenactments with first-person interviews to tell the story of real paranormal encounters. 6. Romantics Anonymous - October 16 - Netflix A tender love story about a chocolatier afraid of eye contact and a germaphobe heir. Through chocolate, they slowly find healing and connection. 7. I Know What You Did Last Summer - October 18 - Netflix A fresh reboot of the psychological horror classic. Five friends share a deadly secret and find themselves haunted by its consequences. 8. The Monster of Florence October 22 Russia has powered its war in Ukraine by keeping its oil flowing. Now, after more than 3 years of conflict, the gusher is slowly starting to peter out. The toll of the war and Western sanctions have made extracting oil out of Russias already shrinking reservoirs harder. Some projections point to at least around a 10% drop in output by the end of the decade, putting the Kremlins economyand the petrodollars it is built onin peril. Since the start of the war in Ukraine, Moscow has kept oil production and exports relatively stable by focusing on the maintenance of existing fields rather than the exploration of new ones. But the longer-term outlook is bleak. Up to one-third of Russias budget revenue comes from the profits of the energy sector and that proportion is likely to shrink as production slows. View Full Image (Source: S&P Global) Even before the war, many of Russias Soviet-era fields, mainly in Western Siberia and the Volga-Urals region, were starting to run low, leaving oil companies to turn to the harder-to-recover crude in its Arctic and Siberian fields. To improve their odds, Russian majors planned to tap shale formations in Siberia using techniques developed in Texas and North Dakota but the war prevented them. Sanctions prohibited access to the necessary extraction technology and the government raised taxes on oil companies to shore up its war effort. Workers were enticed to the front by lucrative packages for soldiers, while others of fighting age have died in battle or left the country, all factors creating shortages of skilled specialists in the industry. President Trump has stepped up pressure on the Kremlin to stop its invasion of Ukraine. But even an unlikely swift end to the war and sanctions, which analysts say have already set the sector back years, wouldnt solve all of Russias problems. Getting oil out of the ground is harder and more expensive but the deteriorating resource base means you have to run faster every year just to stay in place," said Matthew Sagers, Russia expert at S&P Global Commodity Insights. Its essentially a long, slow goodbye for Russian oil." Depleting resources The share of the countrys oil reserves described as hard-to-recover will rise to 80% by 2030, from 59% now, according to Russias Energy Ministry. This means that both capital and operating costs to bring this resource out of the ground will grow," Deputy Energy Minister Pavel Sorokin said at a conference last year. The golden era of Russias giant conventional oil fields is in the past," said Daria Melnik, vice president upstream research at consulting firm Rystad Energy. Lacking tools Developing oil sites, extracting and transporting crude requires a huge range of highly specialized equipment, many of which Russia lacks because of sanctions. It doesnt have the latest software to analyze data from rocks and wells to figure out where and how much oil there is and how to get it out of the ground. Even if Russian oil companies possess such computer programs, since 2022 many have been barred from updates, rendering them unusable in many cases, analysts say. Russian operators are also missing certain sensors built into the drill that transmit real-time information about rock layers, fluids and the drills position. Last year, Aleksandr Dyukov, chief executive of oil producer Gazprom Neft, said that the company was missing around 200 items needed to extract and refine oil. The company has set itself a goal to eliminate the shortage by 2027. Nor does Russia have enough ice-strengthened tankers capable of moving Arctic oil and gas because Western export controls have choked off access to foreign-built ships, key components and technology. Some Asian shipyards, including in South Korea, the world leader in the industry, have canceled Russian orders for such vessels and domestic yards have so far been unable to replace that capacity quickly. Rising costs As Russias crude reserves diminish, the price of extracting each barrel goes up. That is because what is left in the reservoirs becomes physically harder and therefore more expensive to reach. But that is just the geology. The war has exacerbated the costs. Western sanctions mean acquiring equipmentoften via third countriesis more expensive. The labor crunch has pushed wages of oil workers for instance, as well as solid materials such as sand that are pumped into a fracked well to keep the cracks open to allow oil or gas to flow out. Everything is more expensive," said Sagers. All these pressures at home make it very hard for Russia to raise production even in the near term." Write to Georgi Kantchev at georgi.kantchev@wsj.com, Daniel Kiss at daniel.kiss@wsj.com and Ming Li at ming.li@wsj.com Having set the stage for a year of high-level engagement with the Trump administration, Xi Jinping is now chasing his ultimate prize, according to people familiar with the matter: a change in U.S. policy that Beijing hopes could isolate Taiwan. As President Trump has shown interest in striking an economic accord with China in the coming year, the people say, the Chinese leader is planning to press his American counterpart to formally state the U.S. opposes" Taiwans independence. Since coming to power in late 2012, Xi has made bringing Taiwan under Beijings control a key tenet of his China Dream" of national revival. Now, well into an unprecedented third term, he has repeatedly emphasized that reunification" is inevitable and cant be stopped by outside forcesa reference to Washingtons political and military support to Taipei. Xi is no longer satisfied with the U.S. position adopted by the administration of President Joe Biden that Washington does not support" Taiwanese independence, the people say. That statement reassured Beijing but didnt deviate from the U.S. strategically ambiguous One China" policy, which acknowledges Beijings claim over Taiwan without endorsing it. For Xi, the difference between not supporting Taiwans independence and explicitly opposing it is more than semantics. It would signal a shift in U.S. policy from a neutral position to one that actively aligns with Beijing against Taiwanese sovereigntya change that could further cement Xis hold on power at home. The Trump administration hasnt inherited the Biden-era language of not supporting Taiwanese independence. Instead, we have long stated that we oppose any unilateral changes to the status quo from either side," a State Department spokesperson said. China presents the single greatest threat to peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait." Xi believes that he can entice a switch on Taiwan from Trump, who Beijing thinks is eager to secure an economic bargain, the people say. In talks with their American counterparts, Chinese policy advisers outside the government have already stressed the need for the U.S. to officially announce its opposition to Taiwans independence. Driving a wedge between Washington and Taipei is the holy grail of the Taiwan problem for Beijing," said Evan Medeiros, a former senior national-security official of the Obama administration and now a professor at Georgetown University. It would undermine Taiwans confidence and increase Beijings leverage over Taipei." Xi likely sees the coming period of interactions with Trump as the best opportunity to try to pull Washington and Taipei apart," Medeiros added. In a statement, Liu Pengyu, spokesman at the Chinese Embassy in the U.S., said China firmly opposes any form of official exchanges or military ties" between the U.S. and Taiwan. A recent deal brokered by Trump and Xi for the sale of social-media app TikTok to U.S. investors has paved the way for a series of high-level talks. The two leaders plan to meet at the coming Asia-Pacific leaders summit in South Korea, with potential follow-up visits to Beijing by Trump in early 2026 and to the U.S. by Xi that December. However, this engagement remains tentative, people close to the White House say, as Trumps trip to China hinges on Beijings cooperation on trade and efforts to curb the flow of substances that make fentanyl. At the same time, the U.S.s relationship with Taiwan appears to have grown more uncertain. Trump, unlike Biden, has largely avoided explicitly stating whether the U.S. would intervene militarily if China were to invade Taiwan, saying commenting publicly would weaken his negotiating position. In an August interview with Fox News, Trump said Xi had promised him that China wouldnt invade Taiwan while he is the president. Trump didnt specify when that promise was made but noted that Xi added, But I am very patient, and China is very patient." The Trump administration recently delayed some military aid and denied Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te a U.S. transit stopa move that led to Lai cancelling his trip to Latin America. Those actions have raised questions in both Washington and Taipei about whether it is giving priority to a trade deal with China over support for Taiwan. The people close to the White House say the administration is focused on deterring China from taking military actions against Taiwan and encouraging Taipei to increase its spending on key capabilities like drones and munitions to bolster its self-defense. The recent decision to deny the transit stop, they say, was intended to avoid dragging the U.S. into domestic Taiwanese politics by boosting Lais party during a local legislative recall election. Rejecting Beijings Taiwan independence narrative is a key to deterrence, the people say, as doing so would deny China a potential pretext for conflict that mirrors Russias invasion of Ukraine. A senior administration official said, the U.S.s one-China policy, which provides for executive branch interactions with both sides of the Taiwan Strait, remains the same as the first Trump administration." Under Trumps first presidency, the U.S. increased engagement with Taiwan and boosted arms sales. In a January call with Chinas Foreign Minister Wang Yi, Secretary of State Marco Rubio privately reiterated the reassurance of nonsupport for Taiwanese independence, according to people familiar with the matter. Beijing then publicized the remark in an official account of the call without U.S. permission, the people said, which irked Rubio. The U.S. readout of the January call instead focused on the concerns Rubio expressed to Wang over Beijings coercive actions" against Taiwan. An updated State Department fact sheet on the U.S.-Taiwan relations in February even removed the Biden-era phrase stating the U.S. doesnt support Taiwan independence. Ivan Kanapathy, a senior national-security official who helps formulate the administrations policy toward China, is an advocate for improving the U.S.s ability to deter China from trying to take Taiwan by force as Beijing continues to build its military might. In an article published last year by the centrist think tank, the Brookings Institution, Kanapathy argued that U.S. officials should avoid publicly stating nonsupport for Taiwanese independence, as that phrase creates doubt in Taiwan and confuses allies. He proposed a more neutral message: simply opposing any unilateral change to the status quo. Still, Xi is expected to use every chance he gets with Trump to press the American leader to adopt a firm stance against Taiwanese independence. No U.S. policy change on Taiwan will happen overnight," said Yun Sun, director of the China program at the Stimson Center. China will push for its position persistently and repeatedly so as to inch forward, and in the process undermine Taiwans confidence in U.S. commitment." Write to Lingling Wei at Lingling.Wei@wsj.com NEW DELHI: Washington's aggressive push to make its allies purchase American oil, despite being a net importer itself, is raising alarms over a potential global energy crunch, according to a Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI) report released on Sunday. World Bank data shows that in 2024, the US exported $298 billion in petroleum while importing $246 billion. In crude alone, it ran a $60 billion deficit, highlighting that the country is far from self-sufficient. Yet under President Donald Trump, energy has become a tool of trade diplomacy, with countries pressured into long-term purchases of US crude, refined products, and liquefied natural gas (LNG). Mint reported on 25 September that the US has asked India to commit, possibly in writing, to trimming its Russian oil imports and boosting purchases of American crude before a trade deal can be finalized. Shale oil limitations and infrastructure hurdles According to GTRI, most US crude exports consist of light shale oil that domestic refineries cannot fully process, as they are optimized for heavier grades from Venezuela, Mexico, and West Asia. Importers, including India, would need costly upgrades to their refineries to use these barrels efficiently. Washington is also insisting that buyers avoid Russian oil, which still accounts for over 10% of global supply. Ajay Srivastava, founder of GTRI, warned that the combination of political pressure and physical limitations risks creating a volatile global energy market. Long-term commitments raise stakes The European Union (EU), Japan, Thailand, and other nations have been drawn into long-term commitments. The EU has pledged $750 billion worth of American energy over three years, Japan $7 billion annually, and Thailand a 20-year LNG deal, the report stated. Smaller agreements with Vietnam and Britain similarly lock allies into decades-long dependence. Britain will import 50,000 MMBtu of US gas daily from 2028, roughly five LNG cargoes annually. Vietnam plans to import nine million tonnes per annum (mtpa) of US LNG by 2030, while Thailands 20-year contract covers 2 mtpa. While framed as commercial transactions, Srivastava argues they are as much about political leverage as energy security. The US is using energy as a bargaining chip, but the supply reality doesnt match the political ambitions, he said. Shale oil production is highly fragile; wells lose 60-70% of output in the first year. Forcing countries to invest in infrastructure for a supply that could fluctuate dramatically is a risky strategy. The US shale boom, which transformed global energy markets over the past decade, remains volatile. Profitability requires oil prices above $55 per barrel, meaning production can slow rapidly if market conditions tighten. Brent crude currently hovers at $66.80, supporting exports, but any price drop or financial strain could curb output, leaving global buyers exposed. If prices fall or financing tightens, drilling will slow and output will contract jeopardizing Americas export ambitions. Building global energy security atop such a volatile base, experts warn, is a gamble with high systemic risk, the GTRI report said. Indias diversified strategy India has pursued a diversified oil sourcing strategy. In 2024, it imported $52.7 billion worth of crude from Russia, representing 37% of total oil imports, with Iraq, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Nigeria, and the US supplying the remainder. Imports from the US totalled $7.7 billion, including crude, refined products, and LNG, leaving a trade deficit of $3.2 billion in the sector. Indian refiners note that Russian crude is cheaper and technically compatible with existing infrastructure, while an exclusive shift to US shale would raise costs and disrupt operations. Beyond oil, the US has used other levers to extract concessions from India: 50% tariffs on certain exports, a hundredfold increase in H-1B visa fees to $100,000, sanctions on Chabahar port, and legal scrutiny of Indias oil trade with Russia. Observers see these measures as coordinated pressure to align New Delhi with Washingtons broader geopolitical agenda. Trump could fire more federal workers if gov't shuts down after Oct. 1 Xinhua) 14:01, September 28, 2025 U.S. President Donald Trump speaks to the press upon departure from the White House in Washington, D.C., the United States, on Sept. 26, 2025. (Xinhua/Hu Yousong) WASHINGTON, Sept. 26 (Xinhua) -- The White House has warned federal agencies to brace themselves for a wave of layoffs if Congress does not come to an agreement to keep the government funded before Oct. 1. Congress is approaching a deadline to make a deal to fund the government. If no deal is reached by Sept. 30 midnight, parts of the government could shut down until an agreement is reached. The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) sent out a memo on Wednesday that told agencies whose funding ends on Oct. 1 and those that are "not consistent with the president's priorities" to consider sending out termination notices to employees. The warning is intended to prompt Congress to make a deal and avoid a government shutdown, since the livelihoods of thousands of government workers could be at risk. During shutdowns in the past, government employees were usually furloughed temporarily until Congress reached a deal on the budget. During the last shutdown, which occurred from late December 2018 to late January 2019 and lasted 35 days, roughly 800,000 federal employees were furloughed or required to work without pay. The shutdown was primarily due to a dispute over funding for then-President Donald Trump's U.S.-Mexico border wall. "Programs that did not benefit from an infusion of mandatory appropriations will bear the brunt of a shutdown," the OMB wrote in the memo, as reported by Politico, a Washington-based political newspaper. The document is the latest bid to ratchet up the pressure on Democratic lawmakers to cut a deal with GOP members of Congress to avoid a shutdown of some parts of the government. "We remain hopeful that Democrats in Congress will not trigger a shutdown and the steps outlined above will not be necessary," according to the memo. But the clock is ticking in the lead-up to Tuesday's deadline, when funding for some government departments is slated to run out. So far, Democrats are holding the line on demands that a bill needs to include an extension of enhanced tax credits for the Affordable Care Act -- the healthcare legislation signed into law by former President Barack Obama. Some analysts believe the White House is not making empty threats, and that the Trump administration is willing to fire federal employees if no deal is reached. "The Trump administration already has fired tens of thousands of employees, so people should take the new threat seriously," Brookings Institution Senior Fellow Darrell West told Xinhua. "Top leaders want to downsize government and see the shutdown as a vehicle to do that. This move could backfire on the president because it could create sympathy for those who are terminated," West said. Some believe the White House simply needs to justify further government employee firings, after having terminated hundreds of thousands earlier this year. "This administration has been aggressive in looking for ways to shrink the federal workforce and probably sees a shutdown as another bite at the apple," Christopher Galdieri, a political science professor at Saint Anselm College in the northeastern state of New Hampshire, told Xinhua. "That said, this is probably aimed less at Trump's base than it is at Democrats in Congress, in the hope that the prospect of widespread layoffs will make Democrats back down from their demands for funding the government," Galdieri said. Dean Baker, co-founder of the Center for Economic and Policy Research, told Xinhua that government employee firings "will likely wreak havoc" in the functioning of the government. "I doubt he will fire anyone they wouldn't have fired anyhow, although maybe at a different time," Baker said. "The White House simply wants to win the confrontation. It may be that they will lose in terms of public opinion if they proceed to mass firings, but even so, one of their own key goals will have been served," Clay Ramsay, a researcher at the Center for International and Security Studies at the University of Maryland, told Xinhua. U.S. President Donald Trump speaks to the press upon departure from the White House in Washington, D.C., the United States, on Sept. 26, 2025. (Xinhua/Hu Yousong) U.S. President Donald Trump speaks to the press upon departure from the White House in Washington, D.C., the United States, on Sept. 26, 2025. (Xinhua/Hu Yousong) (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) YANGON, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- The wide aisles of Myanmar's Yangon Convention Center buzzed with footsteps, camera clicks, and conversations in multiple languages during the three-day Asian Expo Yangon 2025. Families, business owners, and young professionals strolled from booth to booth, with some sipping iced drinks, others pausing to snap photos with sleek cars or neon-lit displays. For many, the expo, running from Friday to Sunday, was more than just a shopping trip. It offered a glimpse into the technologies shaping Myanmar's future. "I came mainly to see electric vehicles and solar products," said Ko Myint Swe, a small business owner from Shwepyitha township. "I deliver frozen goods every day, and fuel costs are eating into my profits. Three-wheeled EVs look very practical because they don't need to go to a charging station. They can be charged at home," he said. He was not alone in his interest. Chinese brands dominated the expo's energy solutions section, showcasing electric cars, three-wheelers, and renewable energy systems that drew crowds eager for cleaner, more cost-effective alternatives. More than 200 booths filled the venue, offering everything from fashion and food to jewelry and lifestyle products. Still, crowds gathered around the EV and solar displays, reflecting a growing curiosity about energy innovations. IM Motors' booth stood out with its luxury electric cars, the LS7 and LS6, polished to a mirror shine beneath bright spotlights. "EVs are very good for the environment and produce zero carbon emissions. They're efficient and family-friendly. No fuel costs at all," explained Pyae Sone Phyo, sales executive from Super Seven Stars Automotive Co., Ltd., the distributor of IM cars in Myanmar. Yet challenges remain. "Two-thirds of customers still prefer conventional cars because they can be resold," he noted. "If they buy an EV now, they feel it's a loss since there's no strong second-hand market here. Our challenge is to help customers understand the benefits of EVs," he said. For those seeking affordable options, Asia-Pacific Automaker Corp drew significant interest with its Jinpeng three-wheeled EVs. Compact and practical, they appealed to small business owners and taxi operators. "The strength of EVs is that they don't need fuel or engine oil. After purchase, the running cost is almost nothing," Kyaw Zeya, a salesman of the Jinpeng electric vehicles, explained. "They can even be charged at home, just like electric bikes," he said. The appeal extended beyond vehicles. At CTE Myanmar's booth, solar panels, inverters, and high-voltage batteries captured the attention of hotel managers and small factory owners. "Our products are suitable for factories, hotels, and shops with heavy electricity use," said Ma Yin Yin, office manager of CTE Myanmar. "We also have our own platform to solve technical problems for customers." For organizers, the expo's diversity was intentional. "The purpose is to bring together products from Asian countries in one place for customers," said Thiri Min Thein, marketing manager at Marketing Dioxide Co., Ltd. As visitors explored, many lingered at EV displays, asking questions about charging, warranties, and maintenance. Others browsed brochures for solar products, eager to learn how they might reduce their electricity bills. New Delhi [India], September 28 (ANI): The Indian plastics pipes industry weathered multiple headwinds in FY25, grappling with subdued infrastructure spending, liquidity challenges, and volatile PVC prices, according to a recent JM Financial report. The report highlights that the sector, traditionally fragmented and agriculture-focused, has steadily shifted towards a more organised ecosystem catering to water supply, sanitation, plumbing, and industrial applications. Despite the challenges in FY25, the industry expects near-term support from channel restocking and stabilising PVC prices, which reached around INR 79 per kg in September 2025. PVC prices, a critical pass-through cost for pipe manufacturers, have seen significant fluctuations over the past few years. " On the global front, sluggish construction activity in China and developed markets suppressed demand, while a supply glut from major exporters (China, South Korea, Taiwan) led to aggressive dumping at lower prices. Historically, PVC prices have grown at a ~2 per cent CAGR over 25 years, but the segment saw a ~4 per cent CAGR decline over FY20-25. Over the past 4-5 months, prices have shown signs of recovery, increasing by ~INR 7/kg to reach ~INR 79/kg in Sep'25, although levels remain well below FY22 peaks," the report said. Looking ahead, structural demand drivers remain strong. Government initiatives such as the Jal Jeevan Mission, Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, and Housing for All, alongside rising agricultural and replacement demand, are likely to accelerate the adoption of plastic piping systems. The report estimates India's plastic piping market at around INR 600-650 billion, projecting a growth rate of 10-12 per cent CAGR over FY25-30. Mumbai: Indias top gold jewellery and bullion trading lobby has sought regulatory intervention to make the countrys largest commodity exchange and mutual funds accept Indian-refined gold and silver bars. Making Indian-refined bullion bars (India Good Delivery) acceptable by Multi-Commodity Exchange of India (MCX) and exchange-traded funds would be in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's "vocal for local" exhortation and would save precious foreign exchange, the India Bullion & Jewellers Association (IBJA) said in a letter to finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Friday. Mint has reviewed a copy. Also Read | How WGC plans to woo gold-deprecating Gen Z and millennials MCX bullion contracts and ETF units are backed by underlying gold and silver. Currently, exchanges like MCX and gold and silver ETFs use imported gold and silver bars approved by the London Bullion Market Association (LBMA). While MCX allows the delivery of 100 g Indian-made gold bars on its platform, it does not allow India Good Delivery for its benchmark 1 kg gold or silver bar contracts. Indian gold ETFs use LBMA-approved bars for backing their gold and silver units, according to Surendra Mehta, national secretary of the IBJA, whose gold rates are used by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to price sovereign gold bonds. BIS-approved India Good Delivery gold and silver are refined in refineries approved by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and the National Accreditation Board for Testing and Calibration Laboratories (NABL). "Though the intent of the Prime Minister and the government is right and for the benefit of the country, it seems that the regulator Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi), the mutual fund body Association of Mutual Funds in India (Amfi), and commodity derivatives exchanges are turning a blind eye to the use of domestic goods relevant to the industry, said Mehta. Mehta said his letter was also sent to SEBI, the RBI, and AMFI. Queries to the regulators, the mutual fund body and MCX remained unanswered. However, Rajesh Khosla, former managing director of MMTC-PAMP, a joint venture between Swiss-based PAMP SA and MMTC Ltd, said that while the quality of Indian Good Delivery bars was "on a par" with LBMA bars, the lacuna lay in not integrating the pedigree of gold with the end products. Backed by gold "The Indian gold delivery bars must institute a mechanism like the LBMA's to ensure that the bars are backed by gold that is sourced responsibly and ethically, that is not smuggled or mined illegally or used in money laundering, said Khosla. Once 'responsible gold' is integrated with the end product, the use of India Good Delivery can substitute imported bars." Also Read | India ramps up gold reserves faster than peers Since commencing operations in 2003, the highest quantity of gold delivered on MCX stands at 4.9 tonnes in the contract expiring in October 2009. The largest quantity of silver delivery stands at 208 tonnes in March of last year. So far this calendar year, 778 kg is the highest quantity of gold delivered through the June 5 expiry contract, while the corresponding figure for silver is 150 tonnes in March. Festivals in India are always about gathering. Streets swelling with people, kitchens flooding with smells, drums beating louder than memory. But the question is never just what we celebrate. It is also who gets to gather and celebrate, and under what terms. The answers are rarely innocent. They carry centuries of exclusion, of walls around holy sites, of rules about who could touch water, of songs that only some were allowed to sing. Still, against that weight, another current has always flowed. A quieter, riskier, stubborn one. A current where festivals were not tools of control but sparks of freedom. Where joy was not rationed by caste but shared as breath. Where devotion itself was justice. Buddha, Sant Ravidas, Kabir, the Phules, Babasaheb Ambedkar, they all carved out this other history of celebration. And it is this history, often ignored, that might give us a blueprint for the festivals we need today. Joy becomes resistance Imagine Ravidas, the leatherworker, hammer in one hand and song on his lips. His verses carried people into Begumpura, a city without sorrow, without taxes, without caste. Imagine that as a festival: no barricades, no rules of purity, no humiliation. Just music, community, food and dignity mingling into the air. Imagine Kabir, he too sang festivals into being. Not the ones of idols and holy sites, but the ones where a weavers loom was enough to gather people. He mocked the pomp of rituals, yet gave people something bigger to hold on to: a God beyond walls, a love that didnt ask for caste certificates. Imagine their gatherings, where festivals were reimagined as classrooms of dissent. Each song a sermon, each verse a firecracker against hierarchy. For both Ravidas and Kabir, festivity was rebellion wrapped in rhythm. A reminder that joy can be resistance, and resistance can be joyful. Fast forward a few centuries. Pune, 19th century. Imagine being a part of Satyashodhak Jalsa, the street theatre performances steeped in ideas of equality and reform started by the Phules. Streets swelling with people of all shapes, colours, genders and castes. Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, Shudras and Atishudras, all becoming one. Such festivals didnt need idols or repeated verses from holy books. It needed questions. It needed women and men sitting together, eating together, reading texts that people wrote from their hearts. A festival where people worshipped equality. Where joy was not about ritual but fraternity. Where the loudest sound was not fireworks or a holy call but the shock of asking Why?" Imagine Savitribai Phule, who faced stones while walking to school, turning every gathering into an act of defiance. For her, festivals had to be spaces where daughters were free to learn, where widows were free to remarry, where farmers could demand justice. The Phules knew that celebrations cannot be neutral. They either deepen chains or break them. They chose to break. Now imagine Babasaheb Ambedkar. If festivals were about gathering, he gave us gatherings that shook empires and centuries old traditions. Imagine the Mahad Satyagraha in 1927. Dalits drinking from a public tank. It was not just a protest; it was a festival. Imagine the sound of water hitting metal pots, echoing louder than any temple bell or any holy call to prayer. And then imagine Nagpur, 1956. Half-a-million people renouncing caste, renouncing their old religion, renouncing humiliationtogether. If you want to see what a festival of liberty looks like, look there. It wasnt just conversion; it was rebirth. Each I take refuge in the Buddha" was also I take refuge in my dignity." A new calendar began that day. Also Read | Arundhati Roy presents her gangster mother Babasaheb showed us that joy without dignity is hollow, and dignity without joy is incomplete. For him, festivals had to affirm bothliberty as dance, fraternity as meal, equality as vow. Rehearsal for equality And where are we today? Festivals still crowd our streets, but too often they carry the wrong weight. Processions that intimidate, not liberate. Holy gatherings where the marginalised enter only as labourers, not participants. Gatherings, where women fear the colours of joy turning into harassment. Rituals, where lamps are lit and food is shared but darkness of inequality remains untouched. At the same time, other festivals are blooming. Bhima-Koregaon every 1st January, where thousands of Dalits gather at a pillar that remembers the fall of the casteist Peshwas. A festival not of gods but of history, where drums beat out the story of the oppressed fighting back. Savitribai Jayanti, Phule Jayanti, Ambedkar Jayantithese are not events." They are festivals. Streets filled with processions of books instead of idols, speeches instead of chants. Womens Day marches where banners and songs become rituals. Farmers protests where langars became the daily festival of solidarity. Some festivals are invisible to the oppressors but that doesnt mean that they dont exist. They are just split. Some bind. Some liberate. Some give external joy. Some bring internal peace. Some festivals are invisible to the oppressors but that doesnt mean that they dont exist. They are just split. Some bind. Some liberate. Some give external joy. Some bring internal peace. Some hide into the past, some lean towards the future. The battle continues. So, what would it mean to reclaim festivals fully? To shape them as rehearsals for the world we want, not the one we suffer? It would require us to see equality as participation. Everyone eats together. No separate plates, no separate cooking utensils, no separate kitchens. No separate food. Food as a weapon against inequality of all sorts. It would require us to see liberty as an expression. No silence forced by tradition. People free to sing, question, paint, refuse. A festival that celebrates imagination, not obedience. And wed have to see fraternity as belonging. Not mass spectacle, but shared joy. Not crowds reduced to numbers, but communities that see each other, care for each other. Remember the humans who lived and died for you, and water the sapling of wisdom. Celebrate those who were erased by violence. Light lamps and candles for every woman who resisted, every farmer and worker who fell, every marginalised who fought for dignity. These are not fantasies. They are extensions of what has already been dreamt. Ravidass Begumpura. Kabirs irreverent verses. The Phules satyashodhak meals. Babasaheb Ambedkars Nagpur vow. The blueprint is already written. We only have to follow it. Festivals will not vanish. Humans will always need joy. The question is: joy for whom, and at whose cost? If joy depends on someone elses exclusion, it is not joy. If joy grows out of justice, then every gathering, every drumbeat, every shared meal becomes sacred. The festival becomes a rehearsal for the society we deserve. Also Read | Book excerpt: How the global story of caste activism began in Marathwada That is what Ravidas dreamt in Begumpura. What Kabir sang in verses. What Savitribai enacted in her classrooms. What Babasaheb Ambedkar thundered in Nagpur. Every festival is also a struggle. Every struggle can also be a festival. To forget that is to keep repeating old mistakes. To remember it is to make joy revolutionary. The festivals of the future cannot remain chained to rituals of division. They must be living classrooms of democracy. They must be memory and imagination at once. They must be both wound and healing, both reality and dream. Only then will festivals truly belong to all of us. Only then will joy carry no shame. Only then will the three words written into our Constitutionequality, liberty, fraternityrise not only in the courtrooms and Parliament but also in the streets, in the kitchens, in the songs, in the lamps, in the colours. Siddhesh Gautam is a Delhi-based artist, writer, and storyteller whose work reimagines histories of resistance and celebrations through visual, textual, and public art. The Milan Fashion Week has been a season of several noteworthy debuts. From Demna at Gucci and Louise Trotter at Bottega Veneta, to Simone Bellotti at Jil Sander and Dario Vitale, each designer presented their vision for heritage brands. After Sabato De Sarno's departure from Gucci, all eyes were set on Demna's Gucci sophomore collection and the former Balenciaga artistic director didn't disappoint with his La Famiglia offering. The collection was captured by the Los Angeles-based fine-art photographer Catherine Opie, in a series of 37 portraits of characters who epitomise the Gucciness of Gucci" as seen by its new head of design. It featured Miss Aperitivo in a sequin minidress, La VIC in a top-to-toe GG monogram, and Narcisista, whose shirt was unbuttoned almost to his GG buckle belt in a manner not unfamiliar to fans of the house during its Tom Ford era. The house also presented a short film by Oscar winner Spike Jonze and Halina Reijn, The Tiger, starring the likes of Demi Moore and Ed Harris, and featuring looks from the La Famiglia collection. What the brand needed was a wave of sensually charged styling and some flashbulb fervour to keep the Internet buzzing and Demna's presentation managed to achieve that. For his Versace debut, Dario Vitale looked at Gianni's 80s archive, from bold colour blocking to chainmail skirts and micro shorts. Vitales focus was on wearability, and so he proposed separates like an embroidered leather vest and muscle tees. This season, Fendi took sportswear and turned it into demi-couture pieces replete with clever detailing. Silvia Fendi presented tracksuits recontextualised in sartorial wool for men, and organza for women. There were vibrant elastic drawstrings with cord locks to skirts and halter neck dresses crafted from irregular blocks of tiered pleated fabric. It was like the House's invitation to its well-heeled clients to play dress up in an uninhibited way. Prada, on the other hand, stood out for its kicky skirts, from knee-length styles patchworked from different fabrics to ruffled ones. There were bra tops made without any elastic below the bustline and suspenders skirts. Here are some of the key trends that emerged at Milan Fashion Week. Discreet luxury Lorenzo Serafini for his Alberta Ferretti spring collection thought about a woman who actually prefers to keep her life to herself. In a world of constant oversharing, Serafini's muse was someone who enjoys living discreetly and values her privacy. Hence the offering was an homage to a soiree hostess, who entertains for the mere pleasure of it and not to make a noise on social media. This romanticism-laced vibe was evident in his lightweight capes, floaty kaftans, and handkerchief hems that sashayed in ease. From playing with soothing shades to incorporating deeper tones and statement-making leopard prints, the collection was a documentation of understated luxury through consciousness-altering clothing. Jil Sander's showcase under the newly appointed Simone Bellotti was another promising outing, as the designer honoured the house's exacting minimalism while playing with muted tones and carefully calibrated silhouettes. An interplay of textures and transparency came into play in this glowing debut. Unexpected silhouettes View Full Image A model poses backstage before the Dhruv Kapoor collection show at Milan's Fashion Week Womenswear Spring / Summer 2026, on 23 September (AFP) Dhruv Kapoor's Foundations & Futures collection viewed traditional Indian garments with a radical lens. Think classics like kurta, the bandhgala jacket and the petticoat structures being re-engineered. Steeped in Vedic symbolism, each colour employed was linked to a planet embodying chromatic rituals of protection, intimacy, and energy. No 21 by Alessandro DelAqua sent out slips in heat-pleated duchesse, 40s polka-dot dresses with side vents revealing high-waisted briefs and lingerie. Diaphanous chiffon skirts with tasseled feathers, basic cotton and poplin were clashed against rich brocades and faille, creating a textural tension of sorts. Missoni's summer proposition was to wear swimwear as daywear with summer layering. The house sent out knitted blazers, trapeze tops, and blousons styled with one-piece suits and high-waisted bikinis. Some swim pieces were even paired with men's shirts and others were layered under textured cardigans. Artisanal accessories Tods bags expressed the brands artisanal excellence. The Di Bag Folio, with its deconstructed design, was offered as a spacious tote or in a double-layer version and enriched with intricate inlay work. The T Timeless, now presented in a new top handle version, featured continuous perforations that created a refined graphic effect. The Wave Bag reinterpreted the codes of luxury leather goods with contrasting stitching that enhanced its design. View Full Image Fendi presented a fun selection of bags (AFP) On the other hand, Fendi bags came accented with retina-drenching flower motifs. From the evocative sequin lining of Peekaboos to the Baguettes crafted in cable-knit that matched the outfits and block-heeled sandals, it was Roman house's most fun and fearless showcase in recent years. Unabashed glamour Vitale at Versace explored the house's signature sexiness with a fresh spin. Beach tops were slashed super low on the side exposing edges that were left unfinished. What's more, belts styled on high-waist jeans were left undone, and sometimes the zippers too. The piece de resistance was a chainmail bra top and a matching skirt styled with a cashmere cardigan tied around the hips. Another noteworthy showcase was Cavalli, which celebrated the old-school Hollywood glamour. From the sunray pleated dresses to the denims to slip dresses, artistic director Fausto Puglisi stayed true to the house's bold glam heritage while adding his own playfulness to the pieces. View Full Image Models present creations from the Roberto Cavalli Spring/Summer 2026 collection during Milan Fashion Week on 25 September (REUTERS) At Etro, Marco De Vincenzo, too, dialled up drama, as he collaborated with Italian singer La Nina del Sud. Her powerful performance complemented the hues and savoir-faire exemplified by texturing, ruffles and fringes. View Full Image Models walk the runway during the Etro collection show at Milan's Fashion Week Womenswear Spring / Summer 2026, on 25 September (AFP) Also Read | Anamika Khanna on AK-OKs debut at London Fashion Week The Indian market is now significantly less reliant on foreign portfolio inflows, a mutual fund industry veteran said, citing the market's resilience to bad news and the rise of local institutional investors. Domestic investors' participation has accelerated since the covid-19 pandemic, said Harshad Patwardhan, chief investment officer at Union Asset Management Co. "In the 2013 taper tantrum, the Nifty fell 11% and the rupee slid 17% three months after the event. Also Read | What the new NPS rules mean for your retirement savings Fast forward to today, after three months when Donald Trump announced reciprocal tariffs in April 2025, the Nifty was up 10% and the Indian currency depreciated only 0.3%. Even when a 50% import duty was imposed on India recently, Nifty is still up 7% and the Indian rupee depreciated only around 3.5%," Patwardhan said at the Mint Money Festival in Bengaluru. He added that between 1994 and 2009, there were seven instances when the Nifty fell more than 20%. However, between 2009 to 2025, the Nifty fell more than 20% only thrice. Global shocks impact India markets Indian markets once reacted sharply to global shocks, with 20% drawdowns every two years. Now, such drawdowns occur only once in five years," said the veteran investment manager. Also Read | How Sebi plans to make life easier for registered investment advisers Patwardhan said that foreign institutional investors (FIIs) once dominated the market, with FII flows forming 4.2% of market cap in 2003. In the last 4-5 years, they have been net sellers, but domestic institutional investors (DIIs) have more than offset their outflows. The vulnerability of Indian markets to foreign investors has significantly reduced." He also said that while the share of FII investments in NSE-listed companies had touched 21% in FY20 and the DII share was just 13.4%, the latter is slowly catching up. In the first quarter of FY26, DIIs' share of NSE-listed companies was 16.1%, a tad below FIIs' share of 17.3%. Investors used to demand 6-7% more for lending to the Indian government than to the US; now, the yield gap has reduced to around 2%. The yield spread between the 10-year government bond papers of India and the US has also narrowed from around 7% in 2011 to around 2%," the mutual funds expert said. This is a recognition by the investors that the relative riskiness of the Indian market has reduced." This is good news for foreign investors too, as they no longer have to worry about shallowness or illiquidity of the Indian market," Patwardhan said. New Delhi: The Union government is set to make a critical change to healthcare policy by mandating that all hospitals include an Adverse Drug Reaction (ADR) reporting form as a compulsory part of the patient admission process, officials familiar with the matter said, and documents reviewed by Mint showed. This move is designed to create a more robust and consistent system for gathering data on drug side effects, which is crucial for the early detection of any new or serious risks associated with medications. The ultimate goal is to enhance public health by ensuring the safety of medicines in the market. This new mandate is a key initiative of the Pharmacovigilance Programme of India (PvPI), overseen by the Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC). Pharmacovigilance is the science of monitoring drug safety and detecting, assessing, and preventing adverse reactions. Currently, some hospitals voluntarily include the PvPI's toll-free number on their outpatient cards. This new plan, however, will make the ADR reporting form a mandatory component of a patients admission file. This will ensure that doctors and nurses systematically document any potential drug-related side effects. The IPC's scientific body discussed this important progress, highlighting the expansion of ADR Monitoring Centres and the issuance of drug safety alerts. The plan is that hospitals will now adopt this practice of reporting adverse drug reactions in patients and become more vigilant about patient health," the official said. Also Read | India bolsters pandemic preparedness with 2025 zoonotic diseases manual Previously, reporting was inconsistent, but now, every hospital, whether private or government-run, must adopt this practice. This structured approach, inspired by successful models like the one at PGI, Chandigarh, makes reporting a routine part of clinical care, allowing us to be more vigilant about patient health, and PvPI should make efforts to promote adoption of this practice in other hospitals also," the second official added. Queries sent to the health ministry spokesperson remained unanswered. Improved monitoring A Fortis Healthcare spokesperson welcomed the government's decision to mandate Adverse Drug Reaction (ADR) reporting, stating that it will significantly strengthen Indias pharmacovigilance framework and patient safety standards. For hospitals, this creates a structured system to monitor and document drug-related risks, enabling data-driven decisions and policy modifications. For doctors and nurses, it is an integral part of their clinical responsibility, allowing them to recognize and systematically document potential side effects, which ensures transparency and continuous learning," he said. The spokesperson explained that identifying an ADR involves a clinical process including close observation, reviewing patient history, and using standardized tools like the WHO-UMC Causality Assessment Scale to verify suspected reactions. The Fortis spokesperson said mandatory reporting has both immediate and long-term benefits for patients. It allows clinicians to promptly modify or discontinue treatments, preventing complications. The data also helps regulators identify unknown risks and update drug safety guidelines, which protects future patients. We view ADR reporting not merely as a compliance requirement but as a cornerstone of safe, evidence-based, and patient-centric care," he said. The pharmaceutical industry also viewed the mandate as a positive development. Arushi Jain, director of Akums Drugs and Pharmaceuticals, said that this is a welcome move that shows the governments commitment to patient safety and pharmaceutical vigilance. By making ADR reporting mandatory, hospitals will be more diligent in tracking reactions, fostering a culture of transparency and accountability. This is crucial for pharmaceutical companies like ours, as it provides invaluable data that helps us continuously improve our products and services for a safer healthcare environment," Jain said. India is closely watching US President Donald Trumps latest tariff announcements, even as talks on a US-India Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) continue. The US proposal to impose sector- and product-specific tariffs appears at odds with Trumps broader push for bilateral trade deals. From 1 October, Washington will impose a 100% tariff on branded and patented pharmaceuticals unless the exporting company is already building a plant in the US. Trucks will face a 25% duty, kitchen cabinets and bathroom vanities 50%, and upholstered furniture 30%, likely under the controversial Section 232 national security clause. The US has already invoked Section 232 of the US Trade Expansion Act of 1962 to impose additional duties of 50% on steel and aluminium, along with tariffs on auto components and copper. Several countries, including China, India, and the European Union (EU) have filed disputes at the World Trade Organization (WTO), arguing the tariffs violated multilateral rules and undermined agreed tariff bindings. Washington rejected these challenges, insisting the measures are justified on national security grounds. While rejecting the challenges to tariffs, the US argued that these measures fall under the essential security exception in Article XXI of the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT), 1994, and are not safeguard measures. Immediate impact vs larger concern For India, the direct impact of the pharma tariffs may be limited because its strength lies in generics rather than high-value branded drugs. The bigger concern is the reliability of trade agreements. If allies like the EU, UK, and Japantogether supplying 70% of Americas branded drugs and manufactured goodscan be targeted, what guarantees can India expect once it signs its own BTA? High-stakes BTA talks India and the US are in high-stakes negotiations to seal a BTA by fall 2025, typically the September to November period, as declared in a joint statement on 13 February. New Delhi is pushing for duty concessions on textiles, gems and jewellery, leather, and farm products. Washington wants India to reduce Russian oil imports, increase US oil purchases, and open markets for its dairy, farm produce, and patented drugs. Trumps sudden tariffs, however, inject doubt into the very foundation of trade pacts. For India, this raises a strategic question: how can it secure commitments that will withstand unilateral US measures? Section 232: A double-edged tool Trump may be forcing multinationals to build in America" and projecting toughness on trade. But Section 232 risks straining relations with allies, raising US healthcare costs, and undermining confidence in trade commitments. For India, the lesson is clear: if traditional allies are exposed, only legally binding safeguards can protect future exports. Global trade rules under strain The issue also highlights a wider erosion of global trade rules. Section 232 has long been seen as a loophole that lets the US impose duties under a national security cover without WTO scrutiny. The US has already invoked Section 232 of the US Trade Expansion Act of 1962 to impose additional duties of 50% on steel and aluminium, along with tariffs on auto components and copper. Washington is now extending the logic to pharmaceuticals, trucks, and furniture. This sector-by-sector approach leaves exporters worldwide guessing which product might be hit next, disrupting investment and planning. For India, which relies on stable markets for textiles, generics, and IT services, such unpredictability raises serious risks. Indias negotiating dilemma Although India is not directly hit by the pharma tariff, the announcement carries strategic weight. The US has consistently pressed for stronger intellectual property protection and greater space for patented drugs in India. Trumps new tariff threat could be used as a bargaining chip, while Indias low-cost generics may gain importance if branded imports from Europe and Japan are disrupted. This paradoxpressure on one side, opportunity on the othermakes it vital for New Delhi to lock in binding tariff commitments. What lies ahead The executive order detailing these tariffs has not been issued, leaving scope for exemptions or political backtracking. Either way, Indias concerns are reinforced. If the tariffs are applied uniformly, it shows trade agreements cannot shield even allies. If exemptions are carved out, it exposes the arbitrary nature of such decisions. In both cases, the credibility of trade deals suffers, and India must negotiate with its eyes open. Expert view Trumps use of Section 232 on pharma and consumer goods is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it signals his intent to bring manufacturing back home. On the other, it undermines trust with allies and erodes the credibility of trade agreements. India should approach its BTA negotiations with caution, ensuring there are strong protections against unilateral tariff shocks," said Dattesh Parulekar, assistant professor, International Relations, Goa University. We are prepared to navigate the 100% turbulence and are exploring US-based manufacturing partnerships to ensure compliance and continuity. Indias strength lies in quality, scale, and adaptabilityand this is the moment to reinforce it," said Ram Chintalapudi, founder & CMD, Skinska Pharmaceutica. A comprehensive anti-sabotage operation was instigated at Jammu airport on Sunday, following a bomb threat email received by a private airliner. Officials confirmed that a subsequent and thorough search conducted by the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) and police uncovered nothing suspicious, with air traffic remaining unaffected throughout the incident, the PTI report said. Also Read | Multiple Delhi schools receive bomb threat calls; police teams rushed to probe "An email was received by a private airliner this morning, and accordingly, a security drill in such situations was followed to rule out the presence of any explosive substance. The email was a hoax," an official of the Airport Authority of India said. A police complaint was lodged in this connection, and further investigation is underway to identify the sender of the e-mail, he added. 2 Delhi schools get bomb hoax Meanwhile, two Delhi schools received bomb threat emails on Sunday morning, which were later declared a hoax, an official of the Delhi Fire Services said, according to a separate PTI report. The schools were CRPF Public School in Dwarka, and a Sarvodaya Vidyalaya near Qutub Minar, they said. "Police teams, fire personnel, and bomb disposal units were promptly deployed to the affected schools to carry out a search operation properly. However, nothing suspicious was found," the official said. Madras High Court receives bomb threat Earlier this month, the Madras High Court had received a bomb threat email. According to Madras High Court Police, an anonymous bomb threat email was sent to the Madras High Court on the court's official email ID this morning. Upon receiving the information, police personnel and a bomb squad immediately rushed to the spot and began a thorough inspection of the premises and surrounding areas. A Delhi court on September 28, Sunday, sent Chaitanyananda Saraswati, 62, a self-styled godman, to 5-day police custody in sexual assault case, PTI reported. He allegedly sexually harassed 17 women students at a private institute in Delhi. A Delhi Police team located Saraswati in Agra, where he was staying at a hotel and arrested him around 3:30 am today. In an effort to evade arrest, the accused is said to have frequently changed locations and hotels across Vrindavan, Mathura, and Agra in Uttar Pradesh, using taxis for travel. A police official noted that he stayed in low-cost hotels to avoid attracting attention. A senior police officer mentioned, Multiple teams were formed to nab Saraswati. Based on inputs, we tracked him to a hotel in Agra's Taj Ganj area and caught him from there around 3.30 am on Sunday. The officer added that he fled Delhi on August 4 when a First Information Report (FIR) was filed. Recoveries during Chaitanyananda Saraswati's arrest During the arrest, police recovered an iPad and three mobile phones from him. One of the phones had access to CCTV footage of the campus and hostel, which he used to monitor the students movements. Additionally, police recovered fake visiting cards from his possession, which falsely identified him as a Permanent Ambassador to the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), a Commission Member of BRICS, and the Indian Special Envoy De Premiere. According to investigators, Chaitanyanand and his associates falsely claimed to have close ties with the Prime Ministers Office (PMO). According to a senior police officer, his aides allegedly contacted various individuals, asserting his connection to the PMO, which helped him gain support and cooperation while avoiding authorities. Chaitanyanand checked into the hotel around 4 pm on September 27, using the alias Partha Sarathi and was given Room 101. He reportedly stayed inside the room throughout the night. Previously, police had frozen assets worth 8 crore connected to Saraswati, which were spread across several bank accounts and fixed deposits. As detailed in the FIR, Saraswati, a former chairman of a management institute in southwest Delhi, is accused of coercing female students to visit his residence late at night and sending them inappropriate messages at odd hours. He also allegedly tracked the students' activities through his mobile phone. During the investigation, it emerged that the accused had used false identities and information to open numerous bank accounts. He reportedly withdrew over 50 lakh after the FIR was filed. Investigators stated that he had submitted documents with inconsistent details during the account opening process. Delhi Police have arrested self-proclaimed godman Chaitanyananda Saraswati, who allegedly tried to portray himself as a high-ranking international diplomat using fake identity cards. The arrest comes amid ongoing investigations into allegations of financial fraud and sexual harassment involving multiple women. What fake IDs did Chaitanyananda Saraswati use? According to authorities, two counterfeit visiting cards were recovered from Saraswati. One identified him as a Permanent Ambassador to the United Nations, while the other described him as a Special Envoy of India and a member of the Joint Commission of BRICS countries. Police confirmed that both IDs were entirely fabricated and appeared to be part of an effort to falsely project global diplomatic status and influence. "These documents were designed to create a false impression of legitimacy and power," a police official told ANI. Also Read | Swami Chaitanyananda Saraswati arrested in Agra for allegedly molesting students How and where was Saraswati arrested? The 62-year-old self-styled godman was apprehended from Agra, Uttar Pradesh, in the early hours of Sunday. "Multiple teams were formed to nab Saraswati. Based on inputs, we tracked him to a hotel in Agra's Taj Ganj area and caught him from there around 3:30 am," a senior police officer said. Saraswati had reportedly fled Delhi on August 4, shortly after a First Information Report (FIR) was registered against him. What are the sexual harassment allegations? The case against Saraswati centres on disturbing allegations made by 17 women students at a private management institute in southwest Delhi, where he previously served as chairman. It is alleged that Saraswati coerced female students to visit his quarters late at night and sent inappropriate messages to them at odd hours. Investigators further revealed that he allegedly monitored the womens movements through his phone. The allegations have been described by authorities as part of a pattern of predatory behaviour spanning several months. Also Read | Who is Swami Chaitanyananda Saraswati? Delhi guru faces sexual harassment probe What financial crimes is Saraswati accused of? During the investigation, police discovered that Saraswati used multiple names and false identities to operate several bank accounts. "The accused withdrew over 50 lakh after the FIR was registered against him," an investigating officer said. An aerial drone photo shows a mass march in support of the people of Gaza, in Cape Town, South Africa on Sept. 27, 2025. Thousands of South Africans took to the streets of Cape Town, the country's legislative capital, on Saturday for a mass march in support of the people of Gaza, demanding stronger government action in response to the ongoing Israeli military campaigns there. (Photo by Ian Thomas/Xinhua) A man takes part in a mass march in support of the people of Gaza, in Cape Town, South Africa on Sept. 27, 2025. Thousands of South Africans took to the streets of Cape Town, the country's legislative capital, on Saturday for a mass march in support of the people of Gaza, demanding stronger government action in response to the ongoing Israeli military campaigns there. (Photo by Shakirah Thebus/Xinhua) An aerial drone photo shows a mass march in support of the people of Gaza, in Cape Town, South Africa on Sept. 27, 2025. Thousands of South Africans took to the streets of Cape Town, the country's legislative capital, on Saturday for a mass march in support of the people of Gaza, demanding stronger government action in response to the ongoing Israeli military campaigns there. (Photo by Ian Thomas/Xinhua) People take part in a mass march in support of the people of Gaza, in Cape Town, South Africa on Sept. 27, 2025. Thousands of South Africans took to the streets of Cape Town, the country's legislative capital, on Saturday for a mass march in support of the people of Gaza, demanding stronger government action in response to the ongoing Israeli military campaigns there. (Photo by Shakirah Thebus/Xinhua) People take part in a mass march in support of the people of Gaza, in Cape Town, South Africa on Sept. 27, 2025. Thousands of South Africans took to the streets of Cape Town, the country's legislative capital, on Saturday for a mass march in support of the people of Gaza, demanding stronger government action in response to the ongoing Israeli military campaigns there. (Photo by Shakirah Thebus/Xinhua) People take part in a mass march in support of the people of Gaza, in Cape Town, South Africa on Sept. 27, 2025. Thousands of South Africans took to the streets of Cape Town, the country's legislative capital, on Saturday for a mass march in support of the people of Gaza, demanding stronger government action in response to the ongoing Israeli military campaigns there. (Photo by Shakirah Thebus/Xinhua) The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has filed a chargesheet against actress Shilpa Shetty's husband Raj Kundra, for alleged involvement in a Bitcoin scam, according to a PTI report. The investigative agency has claimed that Kundra was a beneficial owner in the operations, and not just a mediator for transactions, as claimed by him, it added. Also Read | EOW records Raj Kundras statement in alleged 60 crore cheating case What did ED say on Raj Kundra's role in Bitcoin scam? In the chargesheet recently filed before a special Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) court, Kundra is in possession of 285 Bitcoins, currently valued at 150.47 crore, that were received from late crypto-scam mastermind Amit Bhardwaj. The ED claimed that Kundra deliberately concealed crucial evidence, including the Bitcoin wallet addresses, and failed to surrender the Bitcoins received from Bhardwaj. The probe agency contended that Kundra continued to be in possession and enjoyment of the said proceeds of crime (Bitcoins). Further, the ED said he did a genuine transaction with his actor wife Shilpa Shetty at far below market rate to disguise the origin of such funds obtained by commission of criminal activities. Thus, he tried to frustrate the proceeding under PMLA by layering the proceeds of crime and projected the same as untainted, the ED claimed in the chargesheet. What is the Bitcoin scam? The money-laundering case stems from FIRs lodged by Maharashtra police and Delhi police against a company named Variable Tech, late Amit Bhardwaj, Ajay Bhardwaj, Vivek Bhardwaj, Simpy Bhardwaj and Mahender Bhardwaj. As per the ED, Bitcoins were supposed to be utilised for mining and investors were supposed to get huge returns in crypto assets, but the promoters "cheated" them and have been concealing the ill-gotten Bitcoins in obscure online wallets. Kundra, the agency alleged, received 285 Bitcoins from the mastermind and promoter of Gain Bitcoin Ponzi scam Amit Bhardwaj for setting up a Bitcoin mining farm in Ukraine. Since the deal did not materialise, Kundra is still in possession of 285 Bitcoins presently valued at more than 150 crore, the ED claimed. What does the ED chargesheet say? The chargesheet stated that Kundra claimed to have acted as a mediator in the said transaction but didn't provide any underlying documentary evidence to prove the same. On the contrary, the agreement titled Term Sheet was signed between him and Mahendra Bhardwaj, it said. "Thus, it can be safely concluded that the agreement was actually between Raj Kundra and Amit Bhardwaj (his father Mahender Bhardwaj) and the argument given by Kundra that he acted as a mere mediator is not tenable," the chargesheet said. The fact that Kundra remembers the exact number of Bitcoins received in five specific tranches for more than seven years since the transactions took place "solidifies the fact that he was indeed the recipient of Bitcoins as a beneficial owner and not acted merely as a mediator", the chargesheet said. Despite multiple opportunities since 2018, Kundra has consistently failed to provide the wallet addresses where the 285 Bitcoins were transferred, the complaint said. He cited damage to his iPhone X soon after his initial statement as the reason for the missing information, which the ED viewed as a deliberate attempt to destroy evidence and conceal the proceeds of crime. Besides Kundra, the other person named in the chargesheet is businessman Rajesh Satija. Kick-starting the Durga Puja festivities, actresses and cousins Kajol and Rani Mukerji came together on Saturday to participate in their family's annual tradition. In videos, Kajol, Rani, and Tanisha were seen beaming with joy as the North Bombay Durga Puja pandal unveiled the first look of its Goddess Durga idol. Kajol, Rani unveil idol of 'Durga Maa,' Kajol and Rani Mukerji pulled back the curtains at the pandal to reveal the idol of 'Durga Maa,' with the Durga Devi Strotram, Aigiri Nandini, playing in the background. Once the idol was fully visible, the sisters joined their hands in prayer and bowed, visibly moved and lost in devotion. Their emotional response to seeing the Goddess was clear to all present. Many of the fans reacted with comments like Jai Mata di, Durga Ma ki Jai, Jai Bhavani Celebrations turn emotional The celebrations also turned emotional for them as they remembered Ayan Mukerjis father, Deb Mukherjee, who passed away in March 2025. Deb Mukherjee was the main organiser of this prestigious Durga Puja A clip that went viral showed sisters Kajol, Rani, Sharbani and Tanisha were seen embracing each other, visibly emotional. Meanwhile, Kajol also shared a heartfelt hug with Ayan before posing together for photographs. They were all dressed in ethnic wear. Kajol was seen dressed in a silk saree, which she paired with a red blouse. Rani looked adorable in a white saree with a floral black and red border. Ayan opted for a white kurta pyjama. The Hindu festival of Durga Puja, also known as Durgotsava or Sharodotsava, is a yearly celebration that honours the Hindu goddess Durga and commemorates her victory over Mahishasur. Hindu mythology holds that the goddess comes to her earthly abode at this time to bless her devotees. Security outside actor-politician Vijay's residence in Chennai has reportedly been stepped up after 40 people were killed and many were injured in the "stampede-like situation" during his political rally in Karur. Sources told NDTV that the security has been heightened at the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chief's home as "people's anger may turn" towards him. Also Read | TVK rally stampede LIVE: Vijay moves Madras HC alleging conspiracy "The state police has also been asked to enhance security for all TVK district secretaries," the sources said. Actor Vijay, 51, whose party TVK is gearing up for a poll debut in the Tamil Nadu Assembly election next year, is under fire after the Karur tragedy Saturday evening. The "stampede-like situation" unfolded during the TVK's Karur rally that drew far more attendees than expected. A health official told news agency PTI on Sunday that the toll in the stampede rose to 40 after a man succumbed to injuries at the government hospital. As the toll mounted, the TVK party led by actor-politician Vijay moved the Madras High Court Bench in Madurai seeking an independent probe into the Karur stampede. Meanwhile, two senior leaders of Vijays TVK, including his close aide N Anand, were booked for culpable homicide not amounting to murder after the Karur rally stampede that killed 40 people and injured nearly 100, Mathrubhumi reported. N Anand, TVK's general secretary and a former MLA from Puducherry, is popularly known as Bussy Anand because he represented the Bussy seat in the Puducherry Assembly. He is effectively the Number 2 in the party, NDTV reported. Karur tragedy: New details emerge Government sources told NDTV that actor Vijay reached the venue about 7 hours late. Men, women and children had started gathering at the venue since noon, but the actor arrived after 7 pm. They also alleged that supporters violated police guidelines. Even while Vijay was speaking, some people collapsed, but the speech continued and ambulances were not allowed into the venue, the sources said. The sources said Vijay left for Trichy airport after the rally and flew to Chennai by a private flight. Karur stampede: What did police say? Tamil Nadu DGP G Venkataraman the crowd swelled due to the delayed arrival of the actor-politician to the venue and they lacked sufficient food and water during the waiting hours under the hot sun. In a briefing on Sunday, he said there was a crowd surge after the official Twitter handle of Vijay's TVK party mentioned that he would arrive at the meeting venue by 12 noon. "Permission [for the meeting] was sought for between 3 pm-10 pm. The TVK Twitter account said he will come at 12 and crowd started coming in from 11 am. He came at 7.40 pm. The people lacked sufficient food water under the hot sun," DGP G Venkataraman. Further, Vijay was accorded welcome at one point and a big crowd followed him and he was ushered in safely to the venue by the police. "He also lauded the police...the crowd kept swelling," he said While the organisers put the expected number at 10,000, about 27,000 people turned up to have a glimpse of the actor, Venkataraman said. He indicated police protection was given anticipating about 20,000. "Our intention is not to blame anyone, but we are just stating the facts," the Head of Police Force added. More than 300 schools and institutes in Delhi and several airports across the country received bomb threats on Sunday morning, which were later declared a hoax. According to officials, the threat emails were sent by a group 'Terrorizers111', which had earlier also sent such threatening communications. The messages arrived in the inboxes of more than 300 email addresses belonging to schools and institutions in Delhi at 6:08 AM. A police officer said they were also sent to Delhi Airport, among other airports in the country. Also Read | Bomb threat email triggers alert at Jammu Airport, nothing suspicious found What did the email say? The subject line of the email read, Bombs placed around your building. React or face the disaster. To the administration of schools and airports, I am the leader of terroristic group also known as terrorizers 111, through heaven and earth in this accursed world which in never anything goes as planned I alone am the untouchable one, I can't push myself to my limits because I am the limitless one, I am the child of evil, I am the meaning of hatred, the mail read. Bombs have been placed around your buildings, you have 24 hours to react or face the bloodpool, the message continued. Also Read | Multiple Delhi schools receive bomb threat calls; police teams rushed to probe Nothing suspicious was found An official of the Delhi Fire Services said two of the schools that received the mail were CRPF Public School in Dwarka and Sarvodaya Vidyalaya near Qutub Minar. Police teams, fire personnel, and bomb disposal units were promptly deployed to the affected schools to carry out a search operation properly. However, nothing suspicious was found, the official said. Also Read | Kerala temples gets bomb threats via email, police and bomb squad on site Months of hoax threats In recent months, several educational institutions in the city have repeatedly been targeted with bomb threats. About a week ago, many schools, including DPS Dwarka, Krishna Model Public School, and another Sarvodaya Vidyalaya received such threats. On September 9, the University College of Medical Sciences (UCMS) received a similar threat, which was later declared a hoax. On the same day, bomb threats were also reported at Maulana Azad Medical College and the Delhi Secretariat. Two-year-old Dhuru Vishnu, the youngest victim in the Karur stampede, died tragically during the political rally led by actor-turned-politician Joseph Vijay Chandrasekhar, popularly known as Vijay, on Saturday. The toddler was at the political rally with his relatives, his head wrapped in the colours of Vijays Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) party. Vishnus aunt later recounted that he had cried and clung to her as they set off for the event, reported NDTV. So we took him along, she said. "As soon as Vijay came, they cut off the electricity supply. People could not hear him, so everyone tried to move closer to the bus. We cannot blame Vijay for the incident. It was our mistake. We should not have taken a child there," she said. Death toll rises to 40 The stampede, which occurred in Karuru district amid sweltering heat and overcrowding, has claimed 40 lives and left 124 injured. Tamil Nadu Health Minister Ma Subramanian informed The Associated Press that 36 victims were pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital on Saturday evening, and a further four later succumbed to their injuries. He added that those who were injured were mostly in a stable condition. Among the deceased were ten children: Hemalatha (8), Sailetsana (8), Sai Jeeva (4), Dhuru Vishnu (2), Sanuj (13), Dharanika (14), Pazhaniammal (11), Kokila (14), Krithik (7) and Kishore (17). Eyewitnesses said the stampede was caused by massive overcrowding and a breakdown of crowd control measures after Vijay's six-hour late arrival led to exhaustion, followed by commotion when his vehicle began to move. There was indiscipline at the rally, Minister Subramanian said. The Tamil Nadu government has announced a probe led by a former judge, Justice Aruna Jagadeesan, who will submit the report in a month, he said. Hours after the tragedy, Vijay offered his condolences. My heart is shattered, he posted on X. I am writhing in unbearable, indescribable pain and sorrow that words cannot express. An injured victim of Karur stampede has filed a plea in the Madras High Court to stop the Tamil Nadu Director General of Police (DGP) from granting TVK permission for any future public meetings or rallies led by Vijay until the fatal stampede is fully investigated, responsibility is fixed, and effective safety protocols are guaranteed. The toll in the September 27 stampede climbed to 40 on Sunday with over 60 being treated as in-patients. The petitioner, Senthilkannan, implead himself (formally join as a party) in a separate petition already filed by TVK, where the party is seeking a directive for the DGP to grant them permission to hold political campaigns across the state between September 20 and December 20, 2025. Essentially, the victim is using the Saturdays stampede tragedy to legally challenge the TVK's ability to hold any immediate future rallies, arguing that safety cannot be guaranteed right now. 'Reckless Planning' Senthilkannan contended before the court that the tragedy was not merely an accident, but the direct result of reckless planning, gross mismanagement, and a complete disregard for public safety. The organisers allowed the crowd to gather without any restriction, failed to provide adequate barriers, and positioned the campaign vehicle in a manner that was certain to provoke a dangerous surge. The specifics of the resultant deaths and serious injuries have been duly recorded on the file of the Karur town police station. An FIR has been registered under various provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, including Section 105 (culpable homicide not amounting to murder) and Section 106 (causing death by negligence). He added that these provisions clearly underscore the gravity of the criminal liability arising from the incident. Furthermore, he asserted that the right to life guaranteed under Article 21 of the Constitution of India is sacrosanct and must not be jeopardised by the unregulated conduct of political rallies. While Article 19(1)(b) confers the right to assemble, the Constitution itself permits reasonable restrictions in the interest of public order, morality, and safety. He submitted that the Karur incident served as a stark reminder that the unrestricted exercise of this right can have catastrophic consequences, resulting in serious loss of life. The state has a positive obligation to protect citizens from such dangers by enforcing adequate preventive measures and by refusing permission for such rallies where there is a clear risk to life and public order. Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chief and actor Vijay received a bomb threat on Sunday, 28 September 2025, amid the row which has emerged over the Karur stampede incident, reported the news agency PTI. According to the agency report, the bomb squad has arrived at Vijay's Neelankarai residence in the city of Chennai to conduct their searches. The video shared on social media showed how the bomb squad arrived with their sniffer dogs, trying to locate any explosives in the area. Security at Vijay's House The security outside actor-politician Vijay's residence in Chennai has reportedly been increased after so many people lost their lives while others were injured during his political rally in Karur on Saturday. According to a news report from NDTV, security has been increased as people's anger may turn towards him. The state police has also been asked to enhance security for all TVK district secretaries, reported the news agency, citing people aware of the development. Since Saturday's incident, Vijay is now under heat as Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) gears up for a poll debut in the Tamil Nadu Assembly election next year. Karur Stampede Actor-politician Vijay's political rally at Karur, Tamil Nadu, on Saturday, 27 September 2025, turned into a stampede incident where 40 people have lost their lives, while more than 60 others are being treated in hospitals, according to the agency's earlier report. The state government is expected to issue an official statement on the number of injured or the extent of damage, and further details will be provided as the situation develops. A stampede is an accidental situation in which a large number of people start running in the same direction, causing a chaotic situation. It occurs most commonly when the crowd is frightened or excited. How did the stampede-like situation arise? As Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chief and actor-politician Vijay was addressing the people who attended the political rally on Saturday, a stampede-like situation suddenly erupted, resulting in many people and children fainting on the spot. According to a previous ANI report, the overcrowding at the venue triggered the panic and subsequent stampede in Karur on Saturday, 29 September 2025. Retired Madras High Court Judge Justice Aruna Jagadeesan will lead the probe into the "stampede" that took place at actor-politician Vijays Karur rally on Saturday, September 27. The Tamil Nadu government announced the formation of a one-member Commission of Inquiry under Jagadeesan that will conduct a thorough investigation and submit a report to the Centre. Also Read | TVK rally stampede LIVE: Vijay moves Madras HC alleging conspiracy As many as 40 people died and 67 were undergoing treatment after a stampede took place during actor Vijay's Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) rally in Karur. Overcrowding, Vijay's late arrival and "mismanagement" were held responsible for the deadly incident. The Commission, led by retired judge Aruna Jagadeesan, is expected to launch probe into the mishap on Sunday, September 28. Tamil Nadu Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin said the Commission would arrive in Karur later in the day to probe the stampede incident. Who is Justice Aruna Jagadeesan? Justice Aruna Jagadeesan is a former Madras High Court Judge. She served as a Puisne Judge at the high court from 2009 till 2015. She has led several high-profile cases and headed many commissions for the state government. Justice Jagadeesan is best known as the chairperson of the one-woman commission that probed the 2018 police firing on anti-Sterlite protesters in Thoothukudi, which resulted in the killing of 13 civilians. Over 100 people were injured in the incident. Her report found that the firing was unprovoked and that excessive force was used. It recommended action against 17 police officials, including IPS officers. Justice Aruna Jagadeesan had also delivered judgment on appeals filed by former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa and her associates. Earlier, she presided over the appeal in the 2002 custodial death of Karuppi, a Dalit woman, where she overturned the lower court conviction and acquitted eight policemen due to lack of evidence, as Oneindia reported. New Delhi: With the Indus Water Treaty (IWT) with Pakistan kept in abeyance, India is moving forward on four key hydropower and reservoir projects in Jammu & Kashmir, aiming to boost storage and power capacity on the Chenab and Jhelum rivers. These projects include the 930 MW Kirthai 2, Tulbul barrage and navigation project, 240 MW Uri 1 - Stage II, and 2x130 Dulhasti Stage II. "After the IWT episode (abeyance of Indus Water Treaty), four projects have already gained momentum, Kirthai 2, Uri 1 Stage II, Dulhasti Stage II and Tulbul project. Other key projects such as Sawalkot are also expected to see movement soon," said a person in the know of the developments. Also Read | Double blow: Why this is the toughest test yet for the Indian shrimp industry The person said that the memorandum of changes for the 930 MW Kirthai 2 hydroelectric project on the Chenab river has been approved by the Central Electricity Authority and the Central Water Commission. The design changes have been approved, which may lead to a slight decline in power generation capacity, but the storage capacity is expected to go up. As per the current design, the 930 MW hydro project would have a maximum live storage of 17.0 million cubic meters (MCM) and diurnal storage of 2.4 MCM for peaking purpose. The project is being developed by Chenab Valley Power Projects Ltd, a joint venture of NHPC and Jammu & Kashmir State Power Corporation Limited (JKSPDCL). The estimated cost of the project as per previous estimates was around 6,300 crore. "The Tulbul navigation project on the Jhelum would also resume soon. The project would include the Tulbul barrage near Sopore and an inland waterway project on the Jhelum," said a second person, while adding that the storage capacity of the barrage would be increased by 300 MCM and state-run NHPC will prepare the detailed feasibility report (DFR) and detailed project report (DPR) for the project. Queries sent to the Union ministry of power and NHPC remained unanswered till press time. Tulbul project was initially conceived to facilitate navigation on the Jhelum river during the winter months of October-February, but it had to be stalled after reservations put forward by Pakistan. After the IWT was kept in abeyance, Jammu & Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah had called for revival of the project. Also Read | Industry deadlock stalls final fuel efficiency norms Further, both the tendering process for the the civil works of the 240 MW Uri 1 - Stage II and the 2x130 MW Dulhasti Stage II are underway. Both the projects would be developed by state-run NHPC. The overall cost of the above-mentioned three hydro power projects would range between 10,000 crore and 28,000 crore. India suspended the 1960 water-sharing agreement as part of its diplomatic response to the deadly 22 April Pahalgam attack by Pakistan-sponsored terrorists. The water-distribution deal, brokered by the World Bank in 1960, capped India's storage capacity on the western rivers in the Indus basinIndus, Jhelum, Chenabat 3.6 maf (million acre feet). However, with treaty in abeyance, India has started expediting the process of construction of long-delayed projects and also expanding the storage capacity of these projects. During his June visit to J&K, Union power minister Manohar Lal noted that the Union Territory has a huge hydropower potential that should be effectively utilized. The potential of hydropower projects on the Indus basin is estimated at 32.32GW, out of which 15.55GW is operational, and 4.8GW is under construction. India is planning to establish five modern seed breeding facilities across the country to encourage advanced seed research and develop high-yielding, disease-resistant varieties of crops, senior government officials said. India already has two such facilities at Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) centres, and is expected to increase it to seven by the end of this fiscal year, the officials told Mint. The seed breeding technology enables rapid crop development by creating controlled environmental conditions such as temperature, light intensity, and day length in a chamber, allowing processing of seeds in a shorter time compared to the conventional way. Also Read | Govt unveils plan to combat counterfeit seed fraud The process of multiplying seeds from the original plant breeding material to the final seeds that are distributed to farmers is known as generation. This can be used in crop varieties such as wheat, rice, cotton, soybean, millets, maize, and mustard. A controlled atmosphere accelerates plant growth, allowing multiple generations each year instead of just one or two under natural conditions. This shortens the breeding cycle of a seed by 2-3 years, reducing it from the current six years. The development assumes significance as the facilities would allow scientists to develop and release new varieties within a shorter period of time. The reduction in the breeding cycle will allow researchers to quickly develop a new variety. This advancement will expedite the development of high-yielding, disease-resistant, and quality crop varieties, making them available to farmers more quickly," Mangi Lal Jat, secretary, Department of Agricultural Research and Education (DARE), and director general, Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) told Mint. The proposed facilities will be developed at ICAR's institutes across the country, such as the Central Institute for Cotton Research (CICR), Nagpur; Indian Institute of Rice Research (IIRR), Hyderabad; Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), New Delhi; Indian Institute of Agricultural Biotechnology (IIAB), Ranchi; and Indian Institute of Maize Research (IIMR), Ludhiana. While some facilities will be dedicated to a specific crop, others will support multiple crops. Each centre would entail an investment of anywhere between 2 crore and 12 crore, depending on the area and facilities. The facilities are expected to transform crop research by enabling the development of four crop generations per year, thereby significantly shortening breeding cycles. In traditional farming, a farmer or researcher can usually grow only 1 or 2 generations (or crop cycles) per year due to seasonal limits. However, by using controlled environments, researchers can produce four generations every year. "With the help of technology, the breeding cycle will be reduced to two to three years from six years presently, which will ensure that genome-edited varieties or hybrid varieties reach the fields much earlier," said D.K. Yadav, deputy director general (crop science), ICAR, Delhi. The research facilities at the Indian Institute of Mustard Research, Bharatpur, Rajasthan, and the Central Soil Salinity Research Institute (CSSRI), Karnal, Haryana, are already operational, with others set to start shortly, Yadav added. Also Read | Can Indian scientists tame the weather with modification tech? Traditionally, it takes 8-10 years to develop a new crop variety and transfer it to the fields. Speed breeding centres can reduce this time by three to four years. This means farmers would get access to high-yielding and climate-resilient varieties much earlier, helping them improve productivity and income. "By enabling multiple crop generations each year, these centres will fast-track the delivery of high-yielding, climate-resilient seed varieties. For farmers, this means quicker access to improved seeds that can withstand pests, diseases, and erratic weather, leading to better yields and more secure incomes," said Ajai Rana, chairman of the Federation of Seed Industry of India. During 20142024, the National Agricultural Research System, including ICAR institutes and state/ and central agricultural universities developed 2,900 location-specific improved crop varieties and hybrids. These included 1,380 cereals, 412 oilseeds, 437 pulses, 376 fibre crops, 178 forage crops, 88 sugarcane varieties, and 29 other crops. The agriculture and allied sector contributes approximately 16% to India's GDP and supports about 46.1% of the population. These seed breeding facilities are likely to increase productivity and improve farm incomes. This push comes at a time when climate change and erratic weather patterns are placing unprecedented stress on agriculture. JINAN, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- China, Japan and the Republic of Korea (ROK) have adopted a new joint action plan on environmental cooperation for the 2026-2030 period, an official said on Sunday. The plan outlines a series of cooperative activities focused on eight priority areas, laying a solid foundation for trilateral environmental collaboration over the next five years, said China's Minister of Ecology and Environment Huang Runqiu at the 26th Tripartite Environment Ministers Meeting among China, Japan and the ROK held in Yantai, east China's Shandong Province. The environmental authorities of the three countries have strengthened practical cooperation to jointly address regional and global environmental challenges, Huang said, noting that they have implemented three phases of such plans, achieving substantial results in air pollution control, sandstorm prevention, and chemical environmental management. Huang added that enhancing environmental cooperation, advancing regional green development and improving people's environmental well-being align with the shared interests of the three countries and that China is willing to work with the other two countries to elevate trilateral environmental collaboration to a higher level. The annual environment ministers' meeting has been hosted by the three countries in rotation since 1999. Ashneer Grover, the former Shark Tank judge, expressed his frustration on social media about the continual use of outdated TVs even in big and renowned hotel chains. He urged hotel chains across India to install 55 Smart LED TVs in all rooms by upgrading the outdated slow TVs that run on set top box connection and require 2 remotes to operate. He made these remarks at the heels of GST reforms. In a post on X, former managing director of BharatPe stated, Hotel chains in India - kind request and humble feedback - simply upgrade and put 55 Smart LED TVs in all your rooms." Suggesting that the television replacement cost will be equivalent to two days room rent which is decent compared to room rates, he stated, Will cost 30K / room (~ 2 days room rate). Utilise the GST rate cuts. The 43-year-old entrepreneur tagged Taj and Oberoi Hotels and highlighted the poor user experience with current TV setups, No one uses your outdated slow TVs with your hotel softwares, menus, spa descriptions, 2 remotes and irritating set top boxes. Social media reaction Social media strongly reacted to this statement of Ashneer Grover and most echoed the same sentiment. One user stated, This is the problem with all old hotel chains. Add Leela, ITC, Marriott, Hilton, Hyatt, etc. in the list as well. Youll only see the latest tech and better internet if they open a new property, but upgrade to the existing is really slow. At least get a good one in suites." Also Read | Ashneer Grover takes indirect dig at Salman, accuses him of hijacking Bigg Boss Another user remarked, And lest we miss out - the unique medley of remotes out of sight and mounted at some of the most weird places. And most of the TV channels will be unsubscribed - I'm talking about 5-star hotels. A third comment read, Use Oyo or ginger instead - there are smart tvs there - why u have to go to taj just to see tv .? A fourth user stated, "TV's are usually show pieces in most hotels as its mostly pay on demand. Mostly nobody wants to pay extra after paying exorbitant hotel rates." A fifth user replied, Or please add a set top box or a Firestick worth 2k that can let me cast my Netflix on the TV. A Reddit post by a software developer has sparked a discussion on the trade-off between work-life balance and high pay in Indias tech industry. The user, posting under the handle Hunter3911 on the subreddit r/developersIndia, revealed that he recently turned down a lucrative offer of 45 lakh per annum (LPA) from a top OTT platform. The reason? Relocation to Bengaluru and the prospect of high work pressure. Instead, he chose another offer of 38 LPA from a multinational company (MNC) based in Gurgaon, where he currently resides. Did I do the right thing leaving 45 LPA, which is 7 LPA more than my current offer? he asked fellow developers, admitting he was feeling guilty about prioritising stability over money. The post, made just two hours ago, has already drawn attention as professionals weigh in on whether job satisfaction and personal well-being should outweigh salary differences. See the post here: The Redditor also shared a detailed snapshot of his professional path so far: Campus placement: Service-based MNC at 3.8 LPA (4 months) 3.8 LPA (4 months) EdTech startup: 8 LPA (11 months) 8 LPA (11 months) Product-based MNC: 21 LPA (joined during the 2022 tech boom, 200% hike; laid off in a year) 21 LPA (joined during the 2022 tech boom, 200% hike; laid off in a year) Product-based startup: 2628 LPA (2 years; quit due to toxic work culture and constant weekend work) 2628 LPA (2 years; quit due to toxic work culture and constant weekend work) Current role: 38 LPA at a product-based MNC Despite a strong background in the MERN tech stack, he admitted he has never pursued Data Structures and Algorithms (DSA) beyond the basics, highlighting a common debate within Indias coding community about whether advanced DSA is essential for career growth. The bigger question: Money or stability? The dilemma resonates with many professionals, especially in Indias booming tech sector, where salaries often rise sharply but long working hours, burnout, and relocations remain significant concerns. A user wrote, "You did the right thing." Another user commented, "38 itself is quite a big amount. So you did the right thing by choosing peace over high workload. You ll get another opportunity next year to take a shot on 50." "I think after a certain LPA, work culture and WLB plays a higher role in selecting offers. Everyone have that benchmark LPA. Mine is 20-25LPA, once I reach there, I would try to focus on "settling" rather than hustling for the higher CTC, because after certain point, it's not worth it risking your peace of mind for money," the third user wrote. The fourth user wrote, "7 lacs extra. Taxes would be 2.1, so it is 4.9 lacs. So after deduction, it is almost 35k per month. It is not a small amount, but at the same time, it is not so huge that you will sacrifice your peace. Just manage your expenses a little better, and the delta will be even smaller. Goodluck!" "You will be losing more than 7L per year going to banglore. so, it was good decision," the fifth wrote. For many in Indias tech industry, landing a job at Google is seen as the ultimate career milestone. But one product managers candid confession on Reddit shows just how tough, and exhausting, that journey can be. Posting on the subreddit r/developersIndia, the anonymous user shared that despite months of relentless effort, he has decided to give up on his Google dream after facing repeated rejections. Also Read | Ruth Kedar: Brazilian immigrant and Stanford professor behind Google logo Tried everything still no success The user, who described himself as a product manager in FinTech with 4.5 years of experience, a Tier-1 MBA and a Tier-2 engineering background, said he had applied for at least eight roles at Google India over the past few months. His efforts went beyond the standard application process. My CV is ATS-optimised, and I attach a customised cover letter, he wrote, adding that he even created mockups and strategy documents tailored to specific roles and shared them with hiring managers. The tech professional also revealed he had reached out over 40 times via email, LinkedIn, and even WhatsApp, in addition to seeking internal referrals from friends already working at Google. But each attempt ended in silence or rejection. Frustrated, he concluded his post with a note of resignation: It seems impossible to get into Google. Giving up! The bigger picture: How tough is it to crack Google? Breaking into global tech giants like Google, Meta, or Apple is notoriously competitive. Recruiters often sift through thousands of applications for a single role, while multiple rounds of interviews test not just technical skills but also problem-solving, leadership, and cultural fit. Even highly qualified candidates with strong resumes like the Redditor in question sometimes fail to cut. Also Read | Google DeepMind shows Gemini Robotics in action WATCH what they can do Internet reacts The Reddit post has sparked conversation among young professionals, many of whom sympathised with the posters journey. Some suggested exploring other opportunities at growing startups or global firms instead of chasing one dream company. Others reminded him that rejection is often not a reflection of capability but of competition. A user wrote, "As someone once said on Quora (yes, I'm that old) "Companies like Google can afford to hire almost anyone on the planet which means they can also afford to ignore even top tier candidates without even looking at their profiles". So don't take it personally, it's just the enormity or their operations." Another user wrote, The ratio of PM to engineer is very skewed now in google. I know a few teams which have 24 engineers but only 1 PM for that team. Some dont even have PMs, also they are cutting down on middle managers a lot. Also google gets a lot of good resumes from similar companies like Microsoft , Amazon, meta so getting past filters is kinda hard." A powerful Category 4 Hurricane Humberto is churning near Bermuda with 155 mph winds, while Tropical Depression Nine is strengthening near the Bahamas and expected to become Tropical Storm Imelda. Both storms threaten dangerous surf, flooding, and damaging winds for Bermuda, the Bahamas, and the US Southeast this week. Humberto is forecast to pass west of Bermuda by Tuesday, bringing strong winds and life-threatening rip currents, while Depression Nine could intensify into a hurricane and approach the Carolinas midweek, bringing heavy rain, storm surge, and flooding risks across the region. A powerful Category 4 hurricane and a developing tropical depression are stirring up dangerous weather conditions across the Atlantic, raising concerns for Bermuda, the Bahamas, and the southeastern United States this week. Humberto: Category 4 Monster Nearing Bermuda The National Hurricane Center (NHC) said Hurricane Humberto was located about 585 miles south of Bermuda early Sunday, packing maximum sustained winds of 155 mph (250 km/h). Current track: Moving west-northwest at 13 mph, with a turn toward the northwest expected later Sunday, then north-northwest Monday, and north-northeast by Tuesday. Impact on Bermuda: The storms center is forecast to pass west of Bermuda Tuesday evening, but the island has about a 50% chance of experiencing tropical-storm-force winds by Tuesday night into Wednesday. Hazards: Humbertos hurricane-force winds extend 35 miles from its eye, with tropical-storm-force winds stretching out 140 miles. Dangerous swells are already affecting Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, and will reach the US East Coast Monday, bringing life-threatening surf and rip currents. Intensity outlook: Humberto may undergo an eyewall replacement cycle soon, possibly causing short-term fluctuations in strength, but gradual weakening is expected midweek as wind shear increases. It is likely to transition into an extratropical system by Thursday. Tropical Depression Nine strengthening near the Bahamas Meanwhile, Tropical Depression Nine, spinning near the Bahamas and eastern Cuba, is expected to strengthen into Tropical Storm Imelda later Sunday and potentially a hurricane by Tuesday. Location: At 8 a.m. EDT, the depression was about 100 miles west-southwest of the central Bahamas with maximum winds of 35 mph. Warnings: Tropical Storm Warning Central and northwestern Bahamas Tropical Storm Watch East coast of Florida from Palm Beach/Martin County line to Flagler/Volusia County line Forecast track: The system will move across the Bahamas today into tonight, then approach the southeast U.S. coast early this week, with possible landfall or close pass near Georgia or the Carolinas. Rainfall: Up to 12 inches in the Bahamas and 48 inches in the Carolinas, with a storm maximum of 18 inches, raising risks of flash flooding and river flooding. Storm surge: Waters could rise 13 feet in the northwestern Bahamas, with large waves compounding coastal flooding. US Southeast on alert While Florida is expected to remain mostly on the storms western side, rough surf, beach erosion, and rip currents will worsen along its east coast. If the storm intensifies more quickly or shifts westward, impacts could increase. For the Carolinas, forecasters warn of damaging winds, erosive surf, and widespread flooding, particularly in coastal communities such as Charleston, Myrtle Beach, and Wilmington. Inland river flooding could persist for days after the storm passes. Outlook beyond the Carolinas Forecasters say Imeldas track is still uncertain. If it stalls offshore, dangerous waves and flooding rains could linger for days. If it turns out to sea, rainfall and wind impacts would lessen. Vice President JD Vance said Russia needs to come to the negotiating table with Ukraine, echoing President Donald Trumps recent remarks that Kyiv could reclaim its lost territory in the ongoing war. Speaking on Fox News Sunday (September 28), Vance urged Moscow to recognize the current situation on the ground. The Russians have got to wake up and accept reality here. A lot of people are dying. They don't have a lot to show for it, Vance told the news outlet. He added that Russia is now on the defensive: How many more people are they willing to lose? How many more people are they willing to kill for very little, if any, gain in the military advantage on the ground there? he said. I think the answer is, hopefully not that much, but certainly our attitude here is we're going to keep on working for peace, and we hope the Russians actually wake up to the reality on the ground. Trump signals optimism for Ukraine Vance expressed support for Trumps recent statement at the United Nations after meeting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, in which the President suggested Ukraine could reclaim lost territories. The president is looking at the situation. Hes saying, Look, the Russian economy is in shambles. The Russians are not gaining much on the battlefield. Its clearly time for them to listen to his passionate plea for them to come to the table and actually talk seriously about peace, Vance told the outlet. He added that recent developments on the battlefield have shifted momentum: If you go back to the last days of the Biden administration, if you go back to even a couple of months ago, the Russians were conquering large amounts of territory, Vance said. Whats happening right now, as the president articulated, is [that] Russia is really stalled. Theyre killing a lot of people. They themselves are losing a lot of people. And they dont have much territorial gain to show for it. Also Read | Trump expresses confidence on Gaza deal ahead of Monday Meeting with Netanyahu New York City Mayor Eric Adams announced on Sunday that he is dropping his bid for reelection, effectively clearing the path for Democrat Zohran Mamdani and former Governor Andrew Cuomo, who is running as an independent, to contend for the citys top office. In a video shared on social media, Adams highlighted achievements during his tenure, including a reduction in violent crime, but cited constant media speculation and a decision by the citys campaign finance board to withhold public funding as key reasons for ending his campaign. Despite all weve achieved, I cannot continue my reelection campaign, Adams said. Adams' warning against Mamdanis agenda Adams bowed out of the mayoral race on Sunday, taking a swipe at Democratic frontrunner Zohran Mamdani and fueling speculation about the role of former Governor Andrew Cuomo in the upcoming contest. In his statement, Adams offered a veiled critique of Mamdani, who has campaigned on promises to regulate rents, introduce free bus travel, and expand access to daycare to address the citys soaring cost of living. Major change is welcome and necessary, but beware of those who claim the answer is to destroy the very system we built together over generations. That is not change, that is chaos, Adams said. Public opinion polls showed Adams trailing far behind Mamdani, who holds a significant lead, and Cuomo. Adams also struggled to raise campaign funds and faced challenges stemming from a now-dismissed federal bribery case. Adams exit leaves the November 4 election likely to be a showdown between Mamdani and Cuomo. At 33, Mamdani could become New York Citys youngest and most progressive mayor in decades. He secured a decisive victory over Cuomo in the Democratic primary, running on a platform focused on reducing the cost of living in one of the worlds priciest cities. Republican Curtis Sliwa remains in the race, but his campaign has faced setbacks within his own party, with Trump recently describing him as not exactly prime time. Trump says Cuomo stands to benefit President Donald Trump welcomed Eric Adams decision to end his reelection bid, predicting that the move will strengthen Andrew Cuomos chances in the upcoming mayoral contest. In remarks following Adams announcement, Trump said he believed many of the votes that might have gone to Adams would now shift to Cuomo, the former New York governor running as an independent. Polls show tighter race after Adams exit; Sliwa vows to stay in New polling suggests the New York City mayoral race could tighten significantly following Mayor Eric Adams decision to withdraw. A Quinnipiac poll indicated that Adams exit could narrow the gap between Democratic nominee Zohran Mamdani and former Governor Andrew Cuomo, who is running as an independent. A separate Times/Siena survey found that Mamdanis lead could shrink further if both Adams and Republican Curtis Sliwa dropped out of the contest. Sliwa, however, has rejected any suggestion of stepping aside. Mamdani blasts Cuomo as Adams exit The battle to succeed New York City Mayor Eric Adams escalated as Democratic nominee Zohran Mamdani and former Governor Andrew Cuomo traded sharp statements following Adams withdrawal from the race. Mamdani, who has campaigned on lowering the cost of living, accused Cuomo of representing the old guard of New York politics. New York deserves better than trading in one disgraced, corrupt politician for another. On November 4th, we are going to turn the page on the politics of big money and small ideas and deliver a government every New Yorker can be proud of, he said. With less than 24 hours before federal funding runs out, President Donald Trump will meet with congressional leaders at the White House on Monday (September 29) in a last-ditch effort to avoid a government shutdown. The discussions will mark the first formal meeting between Trump and congressional leaders ahead of the October 1 deadline. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries had been scheduled to meet Trump last week, but the meeting was cancelled at the last minute. This time, Schumer and Jeffries will join Senate Republican leaders, including Majority Leader John Thune, in face-to-face talks with the president. Dispute over healthcare provisions At the center of the standoff is a short-term spending bill that would keep the government open only until mid-November. Democrats insist the measure must include an extension of health-care subsidies and restore cuts to Medicaid enacted under Trumps earlier legislation. Threats of federal worker firings Trump Administration has also threatened mass firings of federal employees if the government shuts down. Schumer dismissed the warning, calling it political theater. A portion of the mass layoffs earlier this year were restored by the courts, or the administration itself backed off, he said. Democrats vow to negotiate Democratic leaders said they remain committed to preventing a shutdown, but accused Republicans of creating a healthcare crisis. In a joint statement, Schumer and Jeffries said: As we have repeatedly said, Democrats will meet anywhere, at any time and with anyone to negotiate a bipartisan spending agreement that meets the needs of the American people. We are resolute in our determination to avoid a government shutdown and address the Republican healthcare crisis. Time is running out. Republicans argue those provisions should be negotiated separately. We dont want to shut down the government, but if Democrats refuse to just pass this clean continuing resolution, thats exactly whats going to happen, and I think the Democrats are going to bear the responsibility for it, Vice President JD Vance said on Fox News on Sunday. White House signals hard line The White House has insisted Democrats must drop their healthcare demands before Trump will agree to any spending deal. Officials have already signaled that a shutdown is likely without concessions. The House has passed a short-term funding bill, but Senate Republicans will need at least seven Democratic votes to send the measure to Trumps desk before the deadline. Also Read | Trump expresses confidence on Gaza deal ahead of Monday Meeting with Netanyahu US President Donald Trump expressed optimism on Sunday about reaching a deal to end the war in Gaza, saying there is a real chance for greatness in the Middle East ahead of talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday. Trump did not provide specific details of a prospective ceasefire-for-hostages agreement. We have a real chance for Greatness in the Middle East. All are on board for something special, first time ever. We will get it done, Trump said in a Truth Social post. Talks focus on hostages, Hamas, and humanitarian aid Vice President JD Vance described the negotiations as very complicated during an interview on Fox News Sunday. Vance said the US plan has three main components: returning all hostages, ending the Hamas threat to Israel, and increasing humanitarian aid in Gaza. So I think we're close to accomplishing all three of those objectives, Vance said, adding he is cautiously hopeful about reaching a deal. I feel more optimistic about where we are right now than where we have been at any point in the last few months, but let's be realistic, these things can get derailed at the very last minute. Middle East peace plan unveiled at UN Earlier this week, at the United Nations in New York, the US unveiled a 21-point Middle East peace plan aimed at ending the nearly two-year-long conflict between Israel and Hamas. The plan includes: Returning all hostages, living and deceased, halting further Israeli attacks on Qatar, and initiating new dialogue between Israel and the Palestinians for peaceful coexistence. A White House official said the plan aims to foster long-term stability in the region. Regional tensions continue Tensions remain high after Israel launched an airstrike on Hamas targets in Doha, Qatar, on September 9, angering the Qatari government. A Hamas representative said on Saturday that the group had not seen the US peace plan. US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick has called on India to react correctly to the United States, urging New Delhi to open its markets and stop actions that could 'harm' America. In an interview with News Nation on Sunday, Lutnick targeted India along with several other nations. "We have a bunch of countries to fix like Switzerland, Brazil, right? It's got an issue. India, these are countries that need to really react correctly to America. Open their markets, stop taking actions that harm America, and that's why we're off sides with them," he said. Lutnick suggested that while the issues with India would eventually be sorted, but the country must 'play ball' with the US to maintain access to the American consumer market. Those, I think, will be sorted out, but they take time. And these countries have to understand that if you want to sell to the US consumer, right? You've got to play ball with the president of the United States, he commented. He also said in the interview that a bunch of countries left but the big ones maybe the big ones you know India we'll sort it out over time. High-level trade talks The US commerce secretary's comment follows a recent visit to America by a high-level Indian delegation, led by Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal from September 22 to 24, 2025. The delegation engaged in a series of productive discussions aimed at strengthening bilateral trade deal and investment ties between the two countries, the Commerce and Industry Ministry said in a statement. During the visit, Minister Goyal held key meetings with Ambassador Jamieson Greer, United States Trade Representative, and Sergio Gor, the US Ambassador-designate to India where both sides exchanged views on various facets of the Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) deal. They mutually agreed to continue engagements to expedite the early conclusion of a trade agreement that benefits both countries, the Ministry added. Kyiv came under another massive Russian drone and missile attack overnight, with significant damage to infrastructure and residential areas and at least four people killed. Ukraine was targeted with 593 attack drones and 50 missiles, including Kinzhal ballistic missiles, the Ukrainian airforce said. The renewed Kremlin airstrikes came hours after President Volodymyr Zelenskiy revealed that Ukraine had recently received a US-made Patriot air defense system from Israel and expected to get two more in the coming months. Among the targets struck during more than 12 hours of air attacks were a bread factory, a car tire factory, private houses and multi-storey apartment buildings, Zelenskiy said on Telegram. In addition to the deaths in Kyiv, which included a 12-year-old girl, at least another 40 people were injured in the capital, according to Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko. Russians have no intention of stopping at Ukraine, Svyrydenko said, adding that stronger air defenses are not a question of charity it is a question of survival, of justice, for all Europe. At least four people were wounded in Zaporizhzhia in Ukraines southeast, and airstrikes were also felt in the Khmelnytskyi, Sumy, Mykolaiv, Chernihiv and Odesa regions. Neighboring Poland scrambled fighter jets as a precautionary measure but there were no violations of Polish airspace, the countrys military said. We express our gratitude for the support of NATO and the Royal Netherlands Air Force, whose F-35 fighters helped ensure the safety of Polish skies, the Polish armed forces operational command said in an X post. Russias Defense Ministry reported intercepting 41 Ukrainian drones overnight. 2025 Bloomberg L.P. ADEN, Yemen, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- Yemeni pro-government forces launched a large-scale operation on Sunday against hideouts of al-Qaeda's Yemen branch in the southern province of Abyan, a military official said. Joint units of pro-government forces targeted al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP) strongholds in the Mudiyah district, the official, who declined to be named, told Xinhua. Three soldiers were killed in the clashes, the official said, adding that militants used drones alongside ground attacks. He said several AQAP fighters were killed or wounded, without providing figures. The remaining militants retreated into nearby mountains. AQAP has exploited Yemen's civil war and weak security to entrench itself in the south. In late 2022, the government, in coordination with the Southern Transitional Council, launched a counter-terrorism campaign in Abyan. Still, officials say the group remains active, carrying out bombings and attacks on security forces. Yemen has been in conflict since 2014, when the Houthi group seized the capital Sanaa, forcing the internationally-recognized government into exile. India has criticised Pakistan's response to External Affairs Minister S Jaishankars remarks at the UN General Assembly (UNGA), describing Islamabads reaction as an implicit admission of its longstanding practice of cross-border terrorism. During his address at the UNGA General Debate on Saturday, Jaishankar, without naming Pakistan, stated: "Major international terrorist attacks are traced back to that one country." Referring to a neighbour that is an epicentre of global terrorism, Jaishankar emphasised that India has faced the challenge of terrorism since Independence. Why has Pakistan responded despite not being named? Later in the evening, Pakistan used its Right of Reply to accuse India of attempting to malign Pakistan with malicious accusations regarding terrorism, despite Jaishankar not explicitly naming the country. The Pakistani delegate called Indias statements a deliberate attempt to repeat lies. Responding to Pakistan, Rentala Srinivas, Second Secretary at Indias Permanent Mission to the UN, said: It is telling that a neighbour who was not named chose to nevertheless respond and admit their longstanding practice of cross-border terrorism. Srinivas further added: "Pakistan's reputation speaks for itself. Its fingerprints are so visible in terrorism across so many geographies. It is a menace not only to its neighbours but to the entire world." "No arguments or untruths can ever whitewash the crimes of terroristan!" he asserted during Indias Right of Reply. When Pakistan attempted another response, Srinivas walked out of the hall while the Pakistani representative was speaking. What did Jaishankar highlight in his UNGA speech? Jaishankar called on the international community to unequivocally condemn nations that treat terrorism as state policy, maintain terror hubs, and glorify terrorists publicly. Jaishankar stressed the need to choke financing for terrorism and impose sanctions on prominent terrorists, warning that: Relentless pressure must be applied on the entire terrorism eco-system those condoning terror sponsors will find that it comes back to bite them. Without directly naming Pakistan, Jaishankar noted that:"UN's designated lists of terrorists are replete with its nationals." EAM Jaishankar also cited the Pahalgam killings in April as an example of cross-border barbarism, stating: "India exercised its right to defend its people against terrorism and brought its organisers and perpetrators to justice." The Civil Aviation Authority of Vietnam suspended operations at four coastal airports, including Danang, on Sunday, as tropical storm Bualoi bore down on the Southeast Asian country. Authorities simultaneously instructed mass evacuations across vulnerable regions. The government warned that northern and central coastal regions face downpours ranging from 100 millimetres to over 600 millimetres through Tuesday, risking flash floods and landslides that threaten lives and infrastructure. Response measures were swift. State media reported that officials in Danang planned the evacuation of more than 210,000 residents, while Nghe An officials relocated over 6,000 people away from the storms path. The aviation authority confirmed widespread flight disruptions: services at Danang were grounded from 6 AM to 11 AM on Sunday, while Dong Hoi airport in Quang Tri province was set to close from 1 PM until 10 PM. The facility serving the city of Hue also scheduled a suspension from 8 AM to 2 PM. Tho Xuan airport in Thanh Hoa province is expected to close from 10 PM on Sunday through 7 AM on Monday. The agency cautioned that flight operations might be subject to further change, depending on the storms impact. Bualoi was the second major storm to threaten Asia in a week. In Vietnam, the typhoon was expected to bring winds of up to 133 kph (83 mph), storm surges of more than a meter (3.2 feet) and heavy rains that could trigger flash floods and landslides. The storm had already brought heavy rains and flooding to Hue ahead of its Sunday landfall, the Tuoi Tre newspaper reported. A separate account noted that officials there had already drawn up contingency plans to evacuate 32,000 residents. Also Read | Super Typhoon Ragasa ravages Taiwan and South China see pics In Hue, floods swamped low-lying streets, storms ripped off roofs and at least one person was reported missing after being swept away by floodwaters. In neighboring Quang Tri province, a fishing boat sank and another was stranded while seeking shelter. Bualoi had left at least 20 people dead in the central Philippines since Friday, mostly from drownings and falling trees, and knocked out power in several towns and cities. It forced about 23,000 families to evacuate to more than 1,400 emergency shelters. NEW DELHI : This week, Donald Trump shook up the global talent playbook with his crackdown on migrant workforcessending shockwaves through India, the single-biggest supplier of skilled workers to the US. Think of it this way: the US H1-B visa that powered Big Techs rise, put Indians at the helm of trillion-dollar companies, and created icons like Sundar Pichai and Satya Nadella, is now being priced almost out of reach. You dont need to look very far to see how and why. Pichai helms Google, arguably the worlds most influential internet company today. Nadella runs Microsoft, the $3.8-trillion global behemoth that powers most computers around the world. Aravind Krishna helms IBM, and Shantanu Narayen chairs Adobe. Earlier this year, Kevan Parekh took Apples second seat alongside chief Tim Cook. Even before them all, Indra Nooyi at PepsiCo blazed a trail for prolific Indian corporates to lead US giants. Just over a week ago, Trump seemingly torpedoed this very same trail that has seen the US retain its superpower statusand build out Big Tech into the world-controlling juggernaut that it is today. The six companies mentioned above, all helmed in various ways by benefactors of the H-1B visa in the US, are collectively worth over $11 trillion today. If they were a country, just these six companies would become the third-largest economy in the worldbehind only China and the US itself. Given its impact, you wont be penalized for wondering why the US would want to sever ties with the very same workforce that has foundationally catapulted them to where they are today. Take Ashish Vaswani, for instancethe man who basically invented generative AI as we know it today. When I met him this June, Vaswani told me that hes still on an H-1B visa, even though it will soon be two decades in the US for him. For generations, the H-1B has been a route to aspirations of prosperity for millions of Indiansespecially those from small towns. Indias IT services firms have retained talent by migrating them to the US as a key perk of the job. Even doctors have pursued The American Dream. Through all of the past week, Devina Sengupta, one of Mints finest, led our coverage of the H-1B debaclewhere Trumps new policy marked up the cost of the visa by up to 100x. The biggest stories for you to read, are here: Devinas explainer breaking down why foreign companies coming to India to set-up in-house tech development and research operations would face the music; Jessica Jani and Devina also wrote on why the H-1B strictures would affect physicians in the US, potentially leading to a shortage of skilled doctors in the medium term. Our tech services correspondent Jas Bardia, along with veteran journalist Varun Sood, wrote about why smaller tech services firms seem less concerned about the H-1B visa plight, than the top five. Legal correspondent Krishna teamed up with Devina to describe the H-1B job pursuants crisis via legal experts at the moment: sketching out how firms are looking to deal with the hefty fee, and what this means for the people seeking jobs. Mints resident data journalists Nandita Venkatesan and Manjul Paul also detailed how the US is the latest salvo to the struggles of Indians who have pursued studies or even their career so far, prepping for a move abroad. I leave you with these five pieces, which offer an excellent grasp on the impact that it can have on tech jobs in particularwhich have largely seen the US and India maintain cordial but stable relationships. If this changes, can either nation retain their core strengths in technology? Only time will tell. Hunting cyber crime mules This Thursday, I teamed up with my colleagues Shayan Ghosh and Manas Pimpalkhare to go behind efforts to redo Indias tech regulations around online financial fraudsknown better as digital arrests. Regulators and industry stakeholders who were privy to the developments said that a team of 38 members of parliament, part of the parliamentary standing committee on home affairs, met over the past months to agree on one thing, among othersway too many people are losing way too much money, and just raising awareness wont cut it. The solution: a collaboration of multiple ministries and bodies are likely to work together, along with banks, to trace accounts that are used to spread stolen money across the country in minutes. One such case that I am tracking actively for Mint has a net sum of over 5.5 crore, that was spread across 161 bank accounts mostly within a day. This is a rising problem, one that is making it incredibly difficult for cyber sleuths to recover money lost by unsuspecting citizens. The solution will use government IDs to track opened accounts, and freeze them as required. Read our full story to understand how this new initiative can help youor otherwise. Upgrading Indias air defence tech Last week, I also reported on a deal that the publicly-listed Paras Defence expects to signas part of an emergency procurement contract from the Indian Army. The said contract is for a nifty little defence system for drones. This, though, is only one. Insiders that Mint spoke with said that there are multiple typessoft-kill or hard-killof drone defence systems. Each of them cater in varying degrees of defence against drone attacks of multiple levels, going all the way up to the most serious one at level five. Over the coming weeks, Mint will report extensively on this spaceespecially around the rise of Indias first, multi-tiered, comprehensive aerial defence system against drones. For now, our full story is here. Finally, wi-fi 7 in India Mints telecom correspondent Jatin Grover broke the news this week that in the coming months, India is likely to open up access for companies to operate the wi-fi 7 wireless connectivity standard in the country. To be sure, this is the latest standard of consumer-end wireless internet, and is available in the latest Apple iPhones as well as the Sony PlayStation 5 Pro. While the latter was not launched in India citing issues of compliance with the Centres wi-fi 7 standard, it seems that a solution to the plight is finally in sight. Heres what you need to know for when you can get a PS5 Pro in India, all thanks to wi-fi 7. In other news: Mint reviews the new iPhone, relentless spam calls, and Carl Pei's return Speaking of wi-fi 7, this week, I spent some time with Apples much-hyped iPhone 17 Pro Max. This, in many ways, is as extreme as smartphones can getat its top-most spec, the iPhone 17 Pro Max can cost just over 2.5 lakh. But, it can also produce true cinematic shotssuch as the iconic scene from The Matrix where Neo dodges bullets. That it is at the very top of the ladder as far as smartphone rankings are concerned is no surprise, but is it really for everyone? Heres what I found. Meanwhile, the burning question around rising scam and spam calls is endless. The Centre now wants to pitch in, contributing to a potential regulatory environment. But, questions have been raised around whether such regulations would even really help. Jatin wrote at length about the discussions, including inputs from the chairman of the top telecom regulator, Trai. Read on to know more. Finally, Thursday saw Carl Pei, once beloved in India as the cofounder of OnePlus, come back to India by announcing that his company, Nothings sub-brand, CMF, is now an Indian company. The latter will now operate in a joint venture with homegrown electronics manufacturer Optiemus Infracom, which will hold 65% of the entity. In an interview with Mint, Optiemus chairman, Ashok Gupta, said that with Nothing and Corningtwo recognizable names from the smartphone worldnow being his clients and partners, the company will achieve four-digit profits within three years. The question, though, iswill CMF do well enough to capture a sizeable share of the Indian smartphone market? We leave you with this thought for this week. Transformer by Mint is a weekly newsletter that brings Indias most important and interesting technology updates under one umbrella. As the world transforms with every day of innovation, Transformer will keep a tab on the impact that technologies will make in each of our lives. Published every week, the newsletter brings some of Indias tech landscapes most insightful coverages until date. Indias ongoing build-up is at a scale without precedent. The National Infrastructure Pipeline projected an outlay of more than 100 trillion in the five years till the end of 2024-25 across 9,000 projects in transport, energy, urban and rural development, and digital infrastructure, of which roughly a fifth are complete. Alongside, PM Gati Shakti seeks logistics corridors for digitally coordinated connectivity. These efforts aim to lift growth, improve services and generate employment. Yet, the scale of expansion embeds long-term carbon emissions that are rarely measured. While operational energy has received attentionhow much power is consumed by buildings, how efficient transport systems are and how renewable capacity reduces grid emissionswhat is often overlooked is embodied carbon, or the emissions released in producing materials such as cement, steel, aluminium, glass and bitumen, and in construction processes. Indias infra pipeline risks hardwiring a surge in emissions for decades. Once a project is built, some emissions are locked in. The Global Status Report for Buildings and Construction 2023 shows that embodied carbon accounts for nearly a third of built environment emissions globally, and this share will rise as operational energy becomes cleaner. Also Read | Indias crumbling infra is crisis of accountability as much as quality Indias exposure is acute because of high construction demand. Our built-up floor area is expected to multiply from 15.8 to 57.6 billion square metres by 2050. The materials chosen today will carry a carbon burden for decades. The countrys infra surge, while essential for development, could become either a climate asset or liability. External pressures reinforce our domestic logic. As the worlds second-largest cement and steel producer, Indian exports to the EU face a carbon levy from 2026. Export competitiveness increasingly depends on keeping emissions down. Importantly, local opportunities are emerging that align climate action with economic interest. The steel industry shows how commercial logic drives change. Tata Steels hydrogen trials and JSWs renewable energy expansion reflect not environmental virtue, but a recognition that carbon-intensive production is becoming commercially unsustainable. Similarly, UltraTech and ACC are scaling blended cement production using fly ash and slag, reducing emissions and costs. These are not experimental technologies imposed by regulation, but realistic business decisions driven by resource efficiency. Also Read | Climate resilience spending can set off a new wave of business ventures Indias regulatory framework is geared for it. The Bureau of Indian Standards permits low-carbon cement blends like calcined clay composites that cut emissions by 30-40%. Waste management rules encourage recycled aggregates in construction. The challenge is not in rule-making, but implementation. This must account for ground realities. Indias construction sector is fragmented and full of small contractors with limited technical capacity. This is an opportunity, not an obstacle. Small contractors follow specifications; they do not innovate materials. Change the specs, change the outcome. Public works departments, the transport ministry and metro corporations control massive material flows through their standard procedures. Embedding carbon performance into these specifications can tilt the sector towards clean construction without complex compliance requirements. Procurement officers need clear guidelines, not carbon calculations. The economics increasingly favour a transition. Low-carbon cement often costs the same or less when limestone transport is factored in. Recycled aggregates reduce material costs and waste disposal fees. Electric arc furnace steel uses 70% recycled content, and takes less capital than blast furnaces. Where advanced technologies command premiums, these reflect early-stage pricing that falls with scale. Also Read | Cities that care: Incorporate caregiving infrastructure into urban planning India can avoid the retrofitting trap. Unlike rich nations replacing carbon-intensive assets, India can build clean from the start. This advantage disappears if our choices lock in high-carbon technologies for decades. The window for clean building closes as construction picks up pace, so we must act fast. The political dynamics would support rather than hinder change, as infra quality matters as much as delivery speed to users. Using local low-carbon materials would also create jobs. States competing for industrial investment could aim for clean clusters. We have administrative capacity constraints, but phased implementation can help. Start with large projects above 500 crore where technical oversight exists. Focus on proven alternatives rather than experimental tech. Use existing procurement channels; dont increase bureaucracy. Build measurement systems gradually as local data-sets improve and contractor capabilities develop. Indias infra boom represents both a development necessity and climate opportunity. With proven low-carbon materials available at commercial scale and Gati Shakti enabling systematic coordination, the pieces are aligned for a clean transition that does not sacrifice speed. Indias commitment to climate action is often discussed in terms of power sector reforms and renewable energy targets. But the future will also be decided in cement kilns, steel mills and construction sites. Infra is where development goals and climate obligations converge most visibly. The choice is not between building infra and decarbonizing. It is between building it in ways that embed emissions irreversibly and doing it in ways that enable growth without exhausting our carbon budget. The author is an independent expert based in New Delhi, Kolkata and Odisha. Twitter: @scurve Instagram: @soumya.scurve. At the Samudra ke Samriddhi programme in Ahmedabad on 20 September, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the staggering financial loss India incurs due to reliance on foreign shipping. India pays foreign shipping companies $75 billion annually, nearly equivalent to its annual defence budget. This is mainly because foreign ships carry almost 95% of Indias export-import trade. Be it chips or ships, they must be Made in India," Modi said. Four significant steps to revitalize Indias shipbuilding and maritime ecosystem have been initiated as part of a package approved by the Union cabinet: One, the Shipbuilding Financial Assistance Scheme has been extended till 31 March 2036. This, coupled with infrastructure status for shipyards, will facilitate credit for setting up shipyards. Two, a Maritime Development Fund (MDF) has been approved with a corpus of 25,000 crore to provide long-term financing for ship acquisition. Three, the cabinet has approved the allocation of 4,001 crore for an innovative scheme, the Shipbreaking Credit Note, which was announced in the budget. This scheme incentivizes ship scrapping by issuing a credit note of 40% of the scrap value that can be reimbursed to buy new Made in India ships. Four, the Shipbuilding Development Scheme (SbDS), with a budgetary outlay of 19,989 crore, aims to expand domestic shipbuilding capacity to 4.5 million gross tonnage (GT) annually, support mega shipbuilding clusters and infrastructure expansion, establish an India Ship Technology Centre under the Indian Maritime University and provide risk coverage, including insurance support for shipbuilding projects. In a related development, the finance ministry has included in the Harmonized Master List (HML) of infrastructure two categories of shipping vessels: (a) Indian-owned and Indian flag ships of 10,000GT capacity or more (b) commercial vessels of 1,500GT or more, which are built in India and under Indian ownership and bear the flag. The RBI (Project Finance) Directions, 2025, that will come into effect from 1 October, clarify that sectors in HML can avail: (a) flexible lending terms, (b) enhanced limits for loans from banks and financial institutions (c) flexibility in refinancing and restructuring of existing loans and (d) flexibility on provisioning of non-performing assets. For these benefits to materialize, the next steps should include reaching out to Indian infrastructure finance companies such as NaBFiD, PFC, REC and the Sagarmala Development Finance Corp to open access to their infrastructure funds for Indian shipping companies looking to augment Indian flag tonnage through the acquisition of ships and by building them in Indian yards. These steps address the supply side. Of equal importance is demand and the government can facilitate this as well. For tugboats and specialized vessel segments, a series of measures, including standard tug designs for use by major ports and mandates for procurement of Indian-made tugs under the Green Tug Transition Programme (GTTP), have created long-term visibility on the use of Indian built tugs. In the context of cargo vessels, the assurance and availability of long-term charters will spur the purchase of ships under the Indian flag as well as ship-building in India. The greening of ship manufacturing is another area in need of policy support. To be future ready, shipbuilding must adhere to international sustainability and environmental norms. The International Maritime Organization has proposed a net-zero framework for shipping to reach net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by around 2050. The EU has already started mandating that ships entering its waters must comply with emission reduction norms. Given the old age profile of Indian flag ships, the cost of compliance for any net-zero framework will be very high and could hurt our competitiveness. Financial support will be needed to ensure that they are able to comply and stay resilient in the face of a fast-changing regulatory scenario globally. Similarly, building ships to meet high environmental standards calls for higher investments. A portion of the MDF could hence be dedicated to the financing of clean ship manufacturing as well as the transition of existing fleets. The Harit Nauka-Green Transition Guidelines for Inland Vessels provided a structured plan for a shift of vessels used for inland passenger transport towards cleaner fuels, while the GTTP incentivized a transition to battery-operated tugs at all Indian ports. Similar programmes exist for investment in cargo vessels. It will be exciting to see how various Indian policy initiatives unleash a wave of competition and growth in this sector so that not just large, but small and mid-size shipping companies can also thrive in India. The benefits of the sector being granted infrastructure status include access to debt and equity financing at low cost, with terms matching the lives of vessels. These are welcome steps. If implemented well, along with other complementary policy moves, it would help India achieve the objective of increasing its share in global maritime trade to at least 30% by 2047, as envisioned by the Prime Minister. These are the authors personal views. The authors are, respectively, CEO, Indian National Shipowners Association and Partner, Clarus Law Associates (Bloomberg Opinion) -- Heres a big, pressing problem: Americas children are not healthy. Not by any metric of chronic disease, obesity or mental health. Its more than overdiagnosing and food dyes. It feels deep and systemic and beyond parental control. Were not really sure what to do about it, for the kids or for ourselves. But the trend lines are moving in the wrong direction. Given the complexity of the problem, the Make Our Children Healthy Again strategy released this month feels a bit like spaghetti thrown against a wall. The reports dozens of recommendations range from promoting innovation in the sunscreen market to ensur[ing] flexibility for farms to manage manure. But one of the reports more straightforward recommendations doesnt require rewiring the medical or food systems. USDA and HHS will work to increase breastfeeding rates, the report states, Whether through the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children or other policies that support breastfeeding mothers. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that infants be exclusively breastfed for the first six months, citing a wide range of benefits, including immune, nutritional, and long-term health benefits for children as well as promoting postpartum healing for mothers. We are a far distance from that goal. Nearly all mothers breastfeed at least once (usually in the hospital), but the duration and exclusivity of breastmilk is short-lived. According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data, only around half of mothers exclusively breastfeed for three months. By about six months, it drops to around 1 in 4. Numbers are even lower for low-income women. But one of the most significant determinants of breastfeeding is related not to health care but to the labor market: whether or not a mother works. Working mothers are significantly less likely to breastfeed than stay-at-home mothers for obvious reasons such as privacy, milk storage and time neither feeding a baby nor pumping milk can be rushed, and both need to be done every few hours. Moreover, by exclusively breastfeeding, you are committing to being awake for much of the night to keep up your milk supply. This is simply incompatible with work, especially in the early weeks. Paid parental leave is a lever for changing this, especially for our most vulnerable mothers. As has been said many times before, the US is the only developed nation without a national paid maternity leave policy. The private sector has made strides toward providing some, but hasnt picked up all the slack. Less than 1 in 3 mothers has access to paid family leave from their employers. For low-income workers, employer-sponsored paid family leave access drops below 10%. This shows up in our breastfeeding rates. A recent NIH study found: Women who return to full-time employment six to twelve weeks postpartum were more than 50% less likely to meet their breastfeeding intentions, and women who return to full-time employment less than six weeks postpartum were more than twice as likely to not meet their breastfeeding intentions, compared to women who do not work. An NBER study estimated that paid family leave (PFL) increases the overall duration of breastfeeding by nearly 18 days, and the likelihood of breastfeeding for at least six months by 5 percentage points. We find substantially larger effects of PFL on breastfeeding duration for some disadvantaged mothers. In the minutiae of academic research, these are huge impacts to say the least. MAHA mothers should be all over this. The MAHA movement has mobilized mothers across the political spectrum from granola moms to sourdough moms to improve childrens health, read labels and purchase organic food. But some problems are structural and out of their hands. I remember meeting the lactation consultant in the hospital when I had my first child. She showed me the proper way for a baby to latch (like theyre eating a hamburger) and a schedule of how many times a day I should feed. But none of my more significant breastfeeding challenges popped up until leaving the hospital. We dont fit family into work. It should be the other way around. The ability to breastfeed your child and the health benefits it provides should not be up to your employer. Not to mention that protected time away from work is a necessary foundation for any other breastfeeding support HHS might choose to provide, be it home visits or insurance-covered lactation consultants. Traditionalists might argue that one way of protecting it is for moms to leave the labor force entirely. But many mothers dare I say the vast majority are unlikely or unable to do so. Nor, in my opinion, should they be forced to just because as a country we havent prioritized job-protection and financial support for parents and infants. Most parents agree with paid family leave garnering upwards of 80% support from people across the political aisle. The first Trump Administration recognized this, calling for a national six-week paid parental leave policy (the OECD average is 18.5 weeks) and including it in the White House budget. Republicans didnt jump on board despite being the pro-family party. Neither did Democrats, despite decades of advocating for paid leave. Trumps second administration has backtracked somewhat; its big, beautiful bill offers tax credits to companies that provide paid leave, but not much more. MAHA moms shouldnt let them off the hook. Making children healthy again is complicated. This part is not. More From Bloomberg Opinion: This column reflects the personal views of the author and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the editorial board or Bloomberg LP and its owners. Abby McCloskey is a columnist, podcast host, and consultant. She directed domestic policy on two presidential campaigns and was director of economic policy at the American Enterprise Institute. More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com/opinion THERE IS AN unusual buzz of activity in Tumen, a small Chinese city on the border with North Korea. When The Economist visited in recent days, builders and cranes could be seen working on customs and immigration centres at the end of a new cross-border bridge. Elsewhere on the frontier, similar endeavours began in the months before Kim Jong Un, North Koreas leader, attended a military parade in Beijing in early September. And work has continued apace in the weeks since, as China prepares to revive cross-border trade, despite UN sanctions to curb North Koreas nuclear-weapons programme. These and other signals suggest that China and North Korea are feeling more friendly after a fractious decade in which Xi Jinping, the Chinese leader, tightened enforcement of those sanctions under American pressure. China treated Mr Kim with unprecedented respect at the parade, allowing him and Vladimir Putin, Russias leader, to flank Mr Xi. To much of the world, that suggested that the three are closing ranks in an anti-Western alliance. Yet Mr Xis re-engagement with North Korea also reflects his discomfort at the new power dynamics within the trio. The Kremlin was North Koreas main sponsor throughout the cold war. Then, for most of the time since the Soviet Unions collapse, China took on that role. It remains North Koreas biggest economic partner, accounting for more than 90% of its global trade and vast quantities of its oil (although much of North Koreas trade with China and Russia is unreported). In the past two years, however, Mr Kim and Mr Putin have drawn closer. North Korea has sent troops and weapons to help Russian forces in Ukraine and Russia has provided fuel, food and military technology in return. Last year the two countries signed a mutual-defence treaty. Mr Putin also appears to have provided North Korea with military assistance that China will not supply, including anti-aircraft missiles and drone technology. He is reported to have signed an agreement to deliver Russian fighter jets. That is all troubling for Mr Xi, even if Chinas relations with Russia have also strengthened as a result of the war in Ukraine. China shares Russias concerns that a collapse of the North Korean regime could lead to a unified, democratic, pro-Western Korea. That development could bring American troops (of which there are 28,500 in the South) to Chinas eastern land borders. At the same time, Chinese leaders have sought to avert North Korean military aggression against the South, which is one of Chinas biggest trade partners and foreign investors. China also still hopes to prevent North Korea from acquiring a fully functional nuclear arsenal, fearing that it could prompt Japan and South Korea (both American allies) to do the same. Russia seems less interested in curbing North Koreas military ambitions, conventional or nuclear. Some officials even suspect that Russia may have helped North Korea to achieve recent advances in its atomic-weapons programme. To discourage Mr Kim from swinging further towards Russia, Mr Xi now seems to be relaxing some of the trade curbs with North Korea that he imposed during President Donald Trumps first term. Reported bilateral commerce plunged by roughly half to $2.4bn in 2018 after China began to enforce new UN sanctions. It then dropped further during the covid-19 pandemic. But in the first eight months of 2025 it has bounced back to pre-pandemic levels, increasing by 28% year-on-year to $1.6bn. There have been signs, too, of North Korean workers returning to Chinese factories and of North Korea ramping up coal exports to Chinadespite UN sanctions targeting both activities. South-east of Tumen, satellite images show that China is building a giant new customs facility near the point where the Chinese, Russian and North Korean borders meet. Further south, work has resumed at Chinas end of another new cross-border bridge. Mr Xi has also started publicly to play down his concerns about North Koreas nuclear ambitions. Chinas official readout of his recent meeting with Mr Kim did not mention Chinese support for denuclearisation" of the Korean peninsula, despite including such wording in statements on previous meetings, in 2018 and 2019. North Korea did not object to the wording back then, but denounced it as a grave political provocation" when it appeared in a joint declaration at a summit between China, Japan and South Korea in May last year. China still advocates a Korean peninsula free of nuclear weapons, according to Chinese experts. But given the strengthening ties between Messrs Putin and Kim, progress is unlikely without a resolution of the conflict in Ukraine, argues a recent paper by experts from two Chinese universities and a think-tank linked to Chinas state-security ministry. China, they contend, should focus instead on preventing a military clash between North and South Korea, and on exploiting tensions between America and its Asian allies. Chinas other concern is that Mr Trump might resume efforts to negotiate a deal with Mr Kim. Mr Trump met him three times in his first term and has publicly suggested a fourth meeting. Mr Kim said on September 21st that he was open to that, if America dropped denuclearisation demands. The chances of him giving up his nukes are even slimmer than before. Progress in its nuclear programme aside, North Korea fears relinquishing weapons that it believes can guarantee its regimes survival. Even so, if the war in Ukraine ends any time soon, China fears being isolated as Russia and North Korea re-engage with America. On September 23rd Ukraines president, Volodymyr Zelensky, told the UN Security Council that China could force Russia to end the conflict if it wanted. (China counters that it is impartial on the war.) Ultimately Chinas efforts to build economic leverage with North Korea may not pay off. It struggled to influence North Korea even when it had more sway. Mr Kim well understands that China would never let his country collapse. Chinese leaders have tried in vain to encourage market-opening reforms, hoping that regional integration would reduce military tensions. And on the occasions when China applied more direct pressure, North Korea usually shrugged it off. In 2009 a Chinese deputy foreign minister likened North Korea to a spoiled child" after it fired a rocket over Japan. A few weeks later, China publicly condemned a North Korean nuclear test. It is not even clear that North Korea will reciprocate Chinas efforts to expand connections across the border. In contrast to its effusive rhetoric towards Russia, North Korea sounded lukewarm in its statements on Mr Kims recent meeting with Mr Xi. China may have to offer benefits not just on trade but on a larger political scale, because thats what Russia is doing", says Jenny Town of the Stimson Centre, an American think-tank. She suggests that Mr Kim may seek formal involvement in multilateral groupings involving China, such as the BRICS. That might explain the lack of activity opposite Tumen when The Economist visited. The Chinese authorities suggest that the new facilities around the bridge will be finished by next year. At North Koreas end, however, there were no signs of construction. Meanwhile, about 80 miles away, work has been under way since May at both ends of the first road bridge between Russia and North Korea. 2025, The Economist Newspaper Limited. All rights reserved. From The Economist, published under licence. The original content can be found on www.economist.com Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese emphasized the nations strong critical minerals reserve and its ability to value add ahead of his first official meeting with US President Donald Trump, amid a global push to diversify supply chains away from China. The nations clean-energy infrastructure and open space gives Australia the opportunity to value add domestically, Albanese said in an interview with the Australian Broadcasting Corp.s Insiders program Sunday. There are also opportunities to build up a reserve that makes sure that we can play a role in international markets as well, to stop manipulation, particularly by state enterprises, he said. The flow of critical minerals, including rare earths, has been a focus of trade negotiations between the US and China this year. While the Asian nation is a dominant producer of the key elements used in everything from electric vehicles to advanced weaponry, America has ramped up efforts to bolster supply chains that circumvent Beijing. In the US latest policy efforts, the International Development Finance Corp. is said to be in talks to set up a $5 billion fund to invest in critical minerals, Bloomberg reported this month. The Department of Defense also agreed to a $400 million equity investment in MP Materials Corp. earlier in the year. Australian rare earth miners have been booming this year as trade war tensions and supportive domestic and foreign government policy have boosted their share prices. The sector rallied on the prospect of a critical minerals fund from the US International Development Corp., and again in August after the government was reported to be considering price floors. Albanese, who is due to meet with Trump in Washington on Oct. 20, said in the interview that his conversations with the US president have been warm, constructive, positive and optimistic. I think it is in both Australias interests and the interests of the United States that we continue to have a good relationship, and Im sure that we will, he said. 2025 Bloomberg L.P. Members of the Tamil Students' Association protested outside actor-turned-politician Vijay's residence in Chennai on Sunday over the Karur stampede that killed nearly 40 people. As many as 40 people, including women and children, had been killed in the fatal Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) rally on Saturday night. The student association demanded that the politician meet the victims and answer them. Come out, meet people, and answer them. We want justice, they demanded. According to media reports, the security outside the TVK chief's home has been heightened as people's anger may turn towards him. The state police has also been asked to enhance security for all TVK district secretaries, a NDTV report citing sources said. Actor Vijay, 51, whose party TVK is gearing up for a poll debut in the Tamil Nadu Assembly election next year, is under fire after the Karur tragedy Saturday evening. Two senior leaders of Vijays TVK, including his close aide N Anand, were booked for culpable homicide not amounting to murder after the Karur rally stampede that killed 40 people and injured nearly 100. TVK moves Madras High Court As the toll mounted, the TVK party moved the Madras High Court Bench in Madurai seeking an independent probe into the Karur stampede. Vijays party, TVK, has raised serious concerns about the circumstances surrounding the stampede, alleging that there could be a conspiracy behind the incident. The party has filed an urgent plea before the Madras High Court, requesting a suo motu cognisance or an independent investigation into the tragedy. Justice Dhandapani has accepted the urgent mention made by TVKs counsel. The matter is expected to be taken up on Monday by the Madurai Bench of the High Court. The TVK chief declared that 20 lakh would be given to the families of the deceased and 2 lakh to each injured person. He also assured that party workers would provide continuous support to those undergoing treatment in hospitals and prayed for their speedy recovery. President Donald Trump ordered the military to be deployed to Portland, Oregon, to quell protests over his immigration policy, escalating his campaign against demonstrators opposing his policies. At the request of Secretary of Homeland Security, Kristi Noem, I am directing Secretary of War, Pete Hegseth, to provide all necessary Troops to protect War ravaged Portland, and any of our ICE Facilities under siege from attack by Antifa, and other domestic terrorists, Trump said Saturday in a post on Truth Social. I am also authorizing Full Force, if necessary. Deployments in Portland would mark the fourth US city where Trump has sent National Guard troops for duty, assigning them to assist immigration officers, clean up streets and help fight local crime. National Guard troops have been deployed to Los Angeles, Washington, DC, and Memphis. Saturdays post wasnt specific about whether Trump was referring to Guard troops or regular military. Governors control each states National Guard, though Trump was able to federalize Guard troops in DC because of its status as a federal district. The Pentagon said its poised to back the Homeland Security Department and will provide updates when available. We stand ready to mobilize US military personnel in support of DHS operations in Portland at the Presidents direction, department spokesman Sean Parnell said by email. California Governor Gavin Newsom successfully challenged Trumps deployment of Guard troops in his state, but the White House is appealing the federal court ruling. The White House didnt respond to requests for comment. Oregon officials suggested Trumps actions would only inflame the situation. Our nation has a long memory for acts of oppression, and the president will not find lawlessness or violence here unless he plans to perpetrate it, Portland Mayor Keith Wilson said in a statement. Governor Tina Kotek said in a statement that shed reached out to the White House and DHS for an explanation and said there was no security threat in Portland. US Senator Ron Wyden, a Democrat from Oregon, urged residents in a social media post to reject Trumps attempt to incite violence. Protests outside Portlands federal ICE detention facility have been going on since June, around the same time protests started in Los Angeles, with flareups on the July 4 and Labor Day weekends. Oregon is a sanctuary state, meaning that no state or local law enforcement are allowed to cooperate with federal immigration enforcement. Trump has threatened to cut federal funding to such states, although a federal judge blocked the administration from doing so. Amid escalating tensions, Oregon lawmakers have criticized what they describe as mistreatment of detainees, while the city has challenged the facility with a land-use violation. DHS has deployed federal agents to Portland in response. The protests, led in part by antifascist activists, have at times turned violent. Federal officials have condemned the actions, while Antifa-linked groups continue to call for more demonstrations, including solidarity rallies in nearby cities. On Monday, the Trump administration designated Antifa as a domestic terrorist organization, although the order holds no force of law because terrorist designations apply only to foreign-based actors and Antifa is an ideology whose adherents stage protests but under no organization or leader. Outside of anti-ICE protests, a violent-crime report by the Major Cities Chiefs Association for the first half of 2025 showed a 50% drop in homicides in Oregons largest city, according to KATU, the ABC affiliate in Portland. The city has also seen a decline in reported rapes, aggravated assaults and robberies, the report said. With assistance from Lauren Dezenski and Anna Edgerton. 2025 Bloomberg L.P. This photo taken with a mobile phone on Sept. 28, 2025 shows smoke caused by an Israeli airstrike targeting Hezbollah sites in the Jarmaq area of Nabatieh, southern Lebanon. Israeli warplanes struck Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon on Sunday, the Israeli military and Lebanese sources said, marking the latest flare-up along the Israel-Lebanon border despite a ceasefire reached last year. (Photo by Taher Abu Hamdan/Xinhua) BEIRUT/JERUSALEM, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- Israeli warplanes struck Hezbollah targets in southern Lebanon on Sunday, the Israeli military and Lebanese sources said, marking the latest flare-up along the Israel-Lebanon border despite a ceasefire reached last year. Lebanon's state-run National News Agency reported that Israeli aircraft carried out multiple raids on areas around Kfar Remen and Al-Jarmaq, firing air-to-ground missiles that triggered powerful explosions. A drone also targeted a house in Houmine al-Fawqa, near Nabatieh, while other drones flew at low altitude over nearby villages. Security sources told Xinhua the strikes hit Hezbollah positions that had previously been targeted, adding that at least six raids were conducted within 15 minutes around Nabatieh. There were no immediate reports of casualties. The Israeli military said its forces struck weapons depots used by Hezbollah "to advance and carry out terror attacks against the State of Israel." Military spokesperson Avichay Adraee wrote on X that the presence of such infrastructure violated understandings between Israel and Lebanon. A U.S.- and French-brokered ceasefire in November 2024 ended 14 months of cross-border fighting sparked by the Gaza conflict. Israel has continued to carry out strikes in Lebanon, saying they are needed to counter Hezbollah threats. President Donald Trump ordered the military to be deployed to Portland, Oregon, to quell protests over his immigration policy, escalating his campaign against demonstrators opposing his policies. At the request of Secretary of Homeland Security, Kristi Noem, I am directing Secretary of War, Pete Hegseth, to provide all necessary Troops to protect War ravaged Portland, and any of our ICE Facilities under siege from attack by Antifa, and other domestic terrorists, Trump said Saturday in a post on Truth Social. I am also authorizing Full Force, if necessary. Deployments in Portland would mark the fourth US city where Trump has sent National Guard troops for duty, assigning them to assist immigration officers, clean up streets and help fight local crime. National Guard troops have been deployed to Los Angeles, Washington, DC, and Memphis. California Governor Gavin Newsom successfully challenged Trumps deployment of Guard troops in his state, but the White House is appealing the federal court ruling. Trump didnt specify on Saturday whether he was referring to Guard troops or regular military. Governors control each states National Guard, though Trump was able to federalize Guard troops in the capital because its a federal district. Oregon Governor Tina Kotek told a news conference that she was abundantly clear in conversations with Trump and Noem that the deployment was unnecessary. There is no insurrection. There is no threat to national security. There is no need or legal justification for military troops in our major city, she said. Our city is a far cry from the war-ravaged community that he has posted about on social media and I conveyed that directly to him. Lets not take the bait, she told residents. The governor also warned that property damage or violence in response to the deployments will not be tolerated. The Pentagon said its poised to back the Homeland Security Department and will provide updates when available. We stand ready to mobilize US military personnel in support of DHS operations in Portland at the Presidents direction, department spokesman Sean Parnell said by email. Oregon officials suggested Trumps actions would only inflame the situation. Our nation has a long memory for acts of oppression, and the president will not find lawlessness or violence here unless he plans to perpetrate it, Portland Mayor Keith Wilson said in a statement. US Senator Ron Wyden, a Democrat from Oregon, urged residents in a social media post to reject Trumps attempt to incite violence. The White House didnt respond to requests for comment. Elsewhere, Illinois Governor JB Pritzker said on Saturday that the state is monitoring federal deployments in Broadview, a village about 13 miles west of downtown Chicago which houses a facility currently being used by ICE. Last week, ICE officers fired tear gas at a crowd of protesters outside the facility. Whether it be in Broadview here in Illinois or in Portland, Oregon, the Trump Administration is intentionally creating chaos to threaten sending military troops to American cities and suburbs, Pritzker said in a statement. We denounce any violence against the general public, members of the media, and law enforcement or first responders. Protests outside Portlands federal ICE detention facility have been going on since June, around the same time protests started in Los Angeles, with flareups on the July 4 and Labor Day weekends. Oregon is a sanctuary state, meaning that no state or local law enforcement are allowed to cooperate with federal immigration enforcement. Trump has threatened to cut federal funding to such states, although a federal judge blocked the administration from doing so. Amid escalating tensions, Oregon lawmakers have criticized what they describe as mistreatment of detainees, while the city has challenged the facility with a land-use violation. DHS has deployed federal agents to Portland in response. The protests, led in part by antifascist activists, have at times turned violent. Federal officials have condemned the actions, while Antifa-linked groups continue to call for more demonstrations, including solidarity rallies in nearby cities. On Monday, the Trump administration designated Antifa as a domestic terrorist organization, although the order holds no force of law because terrorist designations apply only to foreign-based actors and Antifa is an ideology whose adherents stage protests but under no organization or leader. Outside of anti-ICE protests, a violent-crime report by the Major Cities Chiefs Association for the first half of 2025 showed a 50% drop in homicides in Oregons largest city, according to KATU, the ABC affiliate in Portland. The city has also seen a decline in reported rapes, aggravated assaults and robberies, the report said. With assistance from Lauren Dezenski, Anna Edgerton, Miranda Davis and Isis Almeida. 2025 Bloomberg L.P. Apple's iPhone 17 series doesn't seem to be getting out of controversy anytime soon. The new iPhone models earned a lot of praise on social media after launch due to the upgrades that Apple provided to all the models this year. However, as sales for the new devices began, a number of issues have been reported. The backlash started with the battery drainage and performance issues on iOS 26 and then moved to other topics. A review of the iPhone Air and iPhone 17 Pro by CNET later found that in some rare instances, black boxes and white squiggles could appear in the phones. Apple admitted the issue to the publication and promised a fix. Another major issue occurred over the durability of the iPhone 17 Pro models, with a Bloomberg report noting scratches on the back of new models just hours after being put on display. YouTuber JerryRigEverything also pointed out concerns about the anodization coating of the camera island of the iPhone 17 Pro lineup that was leading to easy scratches, especially around the corners. Apple's Non-functional AI on iPhone 17 series: Users on the official Apple Intelligence community forum have reported facing an unusual bug that prevents them from fully downloading Apple Intelligence features like Genmoji and Image Playground. Some users say Apple Intelligence features worked for a couple of days on their new iPhone before their Siri graphic changed to the old animation and they could no longer access Apple's AI features. I got my new iPhone 17 Pro a couple of days ago. Apple Intelligence worked just fine including Visual Intelligence. All of a sudden it stopped working and it tells me that the models need to be downloaded first. In my iOS storage it tells me Apple Intelligence is installed with 6.59 GB, wrote one user on the forum. "Cant recall doing anything in particular for it to stop working. Got the phone on Friday, I know it still worked on Saturday and Sunday when I wanted to try something with AI it was 'broken'," added another user. Users on the forum say that Apple is aware of the issue and is working on a fix to solve it that will be rolled out with an upcoming iOS update. One user on the forum claimed that switching to a faster Wi-Fi network helped them download the Apple Intelligence update. Meanwhile, other users claim no amount of troubleshooting has helped them get the Apple Intelligence features working again. In the meantime, these are the steps that users have reported has helped them get Apple Intelligence working again. John Wyllie, a 61-year-old man from White City, Oregon, believed his life had turned a corner. In August 2012, Publishers Clearing House, a company that awards sweepstakes, showed up at his house to inform him that he had won the prize of $5,000 per week for the rest of his life. This meant that Wyllie no longer had to work and could start living lavishly. However, he received a rude shock this year when the money flow stopped. On enquiring, it turned out that PCH had gone bust and filed for bankruptcy. This meant, as per KGW8, that Wyllie had to sell some of his valuable items and start looking for a job again, something he had not done for more than a decade. John Wyllie on verge of losing his home Why didnt somebody give me a heads up? 'Hey, were going out of business'. Its not a good way to treat anyone, the Oregon resident told the publication. This feels like a nightmare, he added. I thought this was going to go on for the rest of my life, so I didnt really have to worry about money. Now, Wyllie is trying hard to make ends meet, but without much success. I sold my jet ski. Sold my trailer, he explained. I had a little bit of money left over, and thats what Im living on right now. Pretty sure Im going to lose my home. Publishers Clearing Houses financial woes PCH is a company known for surprising ordinary Americans by awarding them a lifetime supply of prize money. There are, as per WRAT 95.9, 10 other people who are entitled to receive such an award. However, all of them have discovered that their prize money checks are no longer being deposited. The company that has taken over the bankrupt organisation, ARB Interactive, has made it clear that they will not be facilitating the continuation of award money payments to the beneficiaries. This means Wyllie and the 10 other lucky winners will be left empty-handed. PCHs travails started when the company suffered a serious downturn following the COVID pandemic. It filed for bankruptcy this April after their annual revenue fell to $180 million, from a peak of $900 million, as per Moneywise and Yahoo Finance, in the pre-COVID era. Those unfortunate enough to have come to rely on it for their livelihood will have to now find alternate ways to fund their lifestyle. FAQs What is Publishers Clearing House? PCH is a company that specializes in promoting magazine sales. It is also famous for its sweepstakes in which large prize money is awarded to randomly chosen beneficiaries. The company filed for bankruptcy this year. What went wrong with the company? In the years following the COVID pandemic, PCH suffered serious revenue shortfalls due to the presence of competitors like Amazon and its revenue fell to $180 million from a high of $900 million. Longford County Council and Longford Library Services have successfully launched a comprehensive breastfeeding support initiative across all six library branches in County Longford, following an official event at Ballymahon library. The initiative, spearheaded by the Longford Breastfeeding Project inter-agency group, transforms libraries in Ballymahon, Drumlish, Edgeworthstown, Granard, Lanesboro and Longford into genuinely welcoming environments for nursing families. Each library now features dedicated breastfeeding areas with baskets containing practical essentials including muslin squares, baby wipes, breast pads and nappy bags. Purpose-designed support chairs provide comfort for nursing mothers, whilst carefully curated reading materials cater specifically to mothers and young children. New changing facilities have been installed across all six library branches. Cathaoirleach of Longford County Council, Cllr Garry Murtagh, said, "Today marks a significant milestone in our commitment to supporting families throughout County Longford. Our libraries have always been spaces of learning and community connection now they're also welcoming spaces where mothers can feel completely at ease while breastfeeding their children. This initiative exemplifies how local government can create meaningful change through thoughtful partnerships." Also read: I cant believe it: Double celebration as Longford man wins 105,000 Chief Executive Paddy Mahon said, "Longford County Council's mission centres on building safe, healthy and sustainable communities. This breastfeeding initiative perfectly embodies that vision, demonstrating how we can work collaboratively to support families during one of life's most important transitions. Our libraries are no longer just repositories of knowledge they're active participants in community wellbeing." The launch coincides with preparations for National Breastfeeding Week (October 1-7, 2025), which carries the theme 'Hold me close: The power of skin-to-skin contact'. Speaking at the launch in Ballymahon Library, Public Health Nurse Breastfeeding Support & Promotion, Longford/ Westmeath HSE, Valerie Hynes referenced Keith Hanson from the World Bank saying, "If breast feeding did not already exist someone who invented it today would receive a dual Nobel prize in medicine and economics- showing the powerful significance of breastfeeding. Peer-to-peer support and welcoming spaces in the community is so important for breastfeeding mothers and this is a wonderful space in Ballymahon library and all County Longford libraries. Creating supportive environments that enable women to breastfeed successfully requires collective responsibility across all sectors of society. Initiatives like Longford's demonstrate exactly how communities can work together to remove barriers and build confidence. When mothers feel welcomed and supported in public spaces, it creates a ripple effect that benefits entire families and strengthens our social fabric." Also read: Proud parents: Longford's Cian McPhillips has waited 10 years to become an overnight success The initiative represents a flagship example of inter-agency collaboration, bringing together HSE, Cuidiu Longford/Roscommon, Longford County Council, Slaintecare Healthy Communities, Healthy Longford, Longford Libraries, Longford Community Resource Limited, TUS Midland Midwest, Longford County Childcare Committee, Longford Westmeath Child & Young Person Service Committee (CYPSC), Longford Westmeath Community Families, Longford Womens Link, Foroige -Leap Youth Diversion Project, Bridgeways Family Resource Centre and Lus na Greine Family Resource Centre. This library-focused development builds upon the group's existing work with Longford Shopping Centre and reflects a broader strategy for 2025 that emphasises community education and partnership. The programme aligns with Healthy Ireland's emphasis on strengthening partnerships between government departments, local authorities, and community organisations. It also supports Longford's Local Economic and Community Plan 2023-2029, particularly its focus on healthy communities where residents can live active and fulfilling lives. Also read: Huge 7 million investment in Longford business Libraries throughout County Longford are open to welcome families, providing both online and in-person access to these new facilities and resources. A man, who admitted committing a public order offence in Longford, has been directed to make a charity contribution. Mark Healy of Cloonshanville, Frenchpark, county Roscommon pleaded guilty at Longford District Court to the public order offence at Gorteenrevagh, Lanesboro on August 25 last. Sergeant Mark Mahon, court presenter, said a concerned member of the public contacted Gardai in relation to an intoxicated man who was stumbling in Lanesboro on the main road towards Ballymahon. PICTURES | Inside the Longford property with bar and gym sold by CAB for 79,000 The Gardai at the scene found a man wandering near the garda station, he was highly intoxicated and he refused to answer questions. "He gave a false name to start with and there was certain language used and he became abusive to Gardai. The defendant had no previous convictions. Also read: Money laundering accused appears before Longford District Court Solicitor Diarmuid Quinn said his client, a professional lorry driver who lives in the UK, accepted his behaviour was 'outrageous' and he had 400 in court and a letter of apology to the garda. "He was at a music festival in Belfast and it carried on for a few days and he carried on drinking until the Monday. "He was topping up and he lost control of himself." "His memory of the night is not particularly great." Judge Bernadette Owens considered the case and she directed Mr Healy to pay 400 to the Little Blue Heroes charity. She indicated if this was done she would strike out the charges. Also read: Longford man who behaved aggressively avoids reactivation of suspended prison sentence BEIRUT, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- Iran stands ready to support Lebanon at all levels, Ali Larijani, secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, said here Sunday in a meeting with Hezbollah leader Naim Qassem. "Iran is present in all forms of support for Lebanon and its resistance," Larijani was quoted as saying by Lebanon's official National News Agency. Thanking Iran for its continued assistance to Lebanon and its resistance, Qassem said Lebanon is resilient in the face of U.S. and Israeli threats. Hezbollah "remains open to dialogue with all parties and is ready for cooperation with those confronting" Israel, he said. Larijani arrived at Beirut on Saturday and met with Lebanese Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri later that day, during which the Iranian official backed Hezbollah's call for closer ties with Saudi Arabia and framed regional cooperation as crucial to countering Israel. Protestors gather outside the Moakley Federal Courthouse, where Harvard University appeared to challenge $2.6 billion in funding cuts by the Trump administration, Monday, July 21, 2025, in Boston. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa) A plan under development by the White House could see colleges and universities that pledge to adhere to the values and policies of the Trump administration at a competitive advantage for research grants, according to reporting by The Washington Post. The new plan represents a major shift away from a wave of investigations and punishments aimed at individual schools and toward an effort to bring large groups of colleges into compliance with Trump policies at once, the outlet reported. Universities could be asked to affirm that admissions and hiring decisions are based on merit rather than racial or ethnic background or other factors, that specific factors are taken into account when considering foreign student applications, and that college costs are not out of line with the value students receive, two anonymous White House officials told the outlet. Now its time to effect change nationwide, not on a one-off basis, a senior White House official told the Post. The officials described the plan as still being developed. Earlier this month, a federal judge sided with Harvard University over the Trump administrations cuts to nearly $3 billion in federal funding in the name of campus antisemitism. Trump took to social media to say that the administration would immediately appeal the decision. Elsewhere in the country, the Trump administration has attacked the University of California systems research funding, and launched investigations and demanded that it pay more than $1 billion, The New York Times reported on Saturday. School officials on campus are debating how to respond, finding themselves in a similar situation to higher education institutions that have yet to reach a consensus on how to defend against the White Houses campaign to reshape American campuses. Since Trumps return to office, his administration has launched investigations of and pulled research funding from universities, including Columbia, Harvard and UCLA, and worked to secure concessions in exchange for restoring funding. Under the new research funding system under consideration for universities, schools that show they are in compliance with Trump policies would be rewarded with a competitive advantage in applying for federal grants, the Post reported. I think there will be an opportunity for universities to be forward-looking and state their positions out loud: What are the things that you believe? What are your values? How are you providing value to students? the official told the Post. And that will be something that not only is important to the administration but itll be super impactful for students too. Investigations into individual universities that the administration believes violate civil rights laws would continue, the official said. Some Ivy League schools, such as Columbia, Brown and the University of Pennsylvania, have reached agreements to resolve federal investigations. Columbia agreed to pay a $200 million fine to restore federal funding after the Trump administration pulled $400 million in grants for what it described as the universitys failure to address antisemitism on campus during the Israel-Hamas war. Brown agreed to pay $50 million to Rhode Island workforce development organizations in order to restore dozens of federal research grants and end investigations into allegations of antisemitism and racial bias in the universitys admissions. It also agreed to adopt the governments definition of male and female and remove any consideration of race from the admissions process. The University of Pennsylvania agreed to resolve a federal civil rights case by modifying three school records set by transgender swimmer Lia Thomas. The university said it would apologize to female athletes disadvantaged by Thomas participation on the womens swimming team. The administration had suspended $175 million in funding. A critic of the White Houses proposal told the Post that the plan amounted to an assault ... on institutional autonomy, on ideological diversity, on freedom of expression and academic freedom. Suddenly, to get a grant, you need to not demonstrate merit, but ideological fealty to a particular set of political viewpoints. Thats not merit," Ted Mitchell, president of the American Council on Education, told the outlet. I cant imagine a university in America that would be supportive of this. Material from The Associated Press was used for this report. Anna's Taqueria is introducing a new chimichurri steak taco in honor of National Taco Day on Oct. 7. The person who comes up with the best name for the taco will win a year of free tacos. Anna's Taqueria Calling all Boston-area taco lovers: a year of free tacos could be yours all you have to do is come up with a name for Annas Taquerias new chimichurri steak taco. The local Mexican food chain is holding the contest in honor of National Taco Day on Oct. 7, according to a press release. Those hoping to score a year of free tacos can begin entering their suggestions in-store on that day as well. Annas Taqueria will begin offering its latest creation on the holiday at all 10 of its locations, the restaurant chain said. The new taco features grilled steak, queso fresco, fresh cilantro, diced red onion and house-made chimichurri a vibrant and tangy sauce packed with cilantro, basil, garlic and jalapeno. Anna's Taqueria is introducing a new chimichurri steak taco in honor of National Taco Day on Oct. 7. The person who comes up with the best name for the taco will win a year of free tacos. Anna's Taqueria Those who prefer Annas Taquerias existing dishes can still try out the new sauce as a free add-on to any bowl, burrito or quesadilla, the restaurant chain said. Chimichurri is an uncooked meat sauce traditionally used in South American cuisine. Annas Taquerias new inductee will be available for a limited time unless the public concludes its an order they cant live without, as with the chipotle chicken and birria tacos that debuted on past National Taco Days," the release reads. Annas Taqueria has locations at Longwood, Beacon Hill, Northeastern University and the Prudential Center in Boston; Porter Square in Cambridge; Davis Square in Somerville; Newton Highlands in Newton; and in Brookline, Woburn and Natick, according to its website. It plans to soon open an eleventh location on Summer Street in Boston. A lucky Massachusetts State Lottery player won $50,000 through Powerball on Saturday. The winning ticket was sold at a convenience store in Norwood. Saturday nights winning numbers were 10, 16, 32, 61 and 66 and the Powerball number was 4. In Powerball, players select five numbers between 1 and 69 and one Powerball number between 1 and 26. They then choose how many drawings they want to use those numbers for. Players that match all five numbers and the Powerball number win the jackpot. They have 1 in 292,201,338 chances of winning this way. Players that match four numbers and the Powerball number win $50,000. They have 1 in 913,129.18 chances of winning this way. Powerball drawings take place every Monday, Wednesday and Saturday at 10:59 p.m. The jackpot stands at $160 million as of Sunday. Overall, at least 208 prizes worth $600 or more were won or claimed in Massachusetts on Saturday, including six in Springfield, five in Worcester and 26 in Boston. The Massachusetts State Lottery releases a full list of winning tickets every day. The list only includes winning tickets worth more than $600. The largest lottery prize won so far this year was worth $1 million a year for life, from a winning Lifetime Millions scratch ticket sold in Springfield and claimed in July. NYC mayor Eric Adams attends the ceremony to mark the 24th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks, Thursday, Sept. 11, 2025, in New York. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig) New York City Mayor Eric Adams ended his struggling reelection campaign Sunday, an acknowledgment that he was no longer a serious contender in the contest after a year of scandal and political turmoil. In a video released on social media, Adams spoke of his achievements as mayor, including a drop in violent crime. But he said constant media speculation about his future and a decision by the citys campaign finance board to withhold public funding from his reelection effort made it impossible to stay in the race. Despite all weve achieved, I cannot continue my reelection campaign, he said. Adams did not directly mention or endorse any of the remaining candidates in the race, but he warned of insidious forces using local government to advance divisive agendas. Major change is welcome and necessary, but beware of those who claim the answer (is) to destroy the very system we built over generations, he said. That is not change, that is chaos. Instead, I urge leaders to choose leaders not by what they promise, but by what they have delivered. Adams capitulation could potentially provide a lift to the campaign of former Gov. Andrew Cuomo, a fellow centrist who portrayed himself as the only candidate potentially able to beat the Democratic Partys nominee, state Assemblymember Zohran Mamdani. It was unclear, though, whether enough of Adams supporters would shift their allegiances to Cuomo to make a difference. Mamdani, at 33, would be the citys youngest and most liberal mayor in generations if elected. He beat Cuomo decisively in the Democratic primary by campaigning on a promise try to lower the cost of living in one of the worlds most expensive cities. Three remaining candidates In a statement released after Adams announcement, Mamdani took aim at Cuomo. New York deserves better than trading in one disgraced, corrupt politician for another. On November 4th, we are going to turn the page on the politics of big money and small ideas and deliver a government every New Yorker can be proud of, Mamdani said. Cuomo, in a statement on social media, praised Adams for putting the well-being of New York City ahead of personal ambition. He also did not mention Mamdani by name, but echoed Adams warning about unspecified extremist forces. We face destructive extremist forces that would devastate our city through incompetence or ignorance, but it is not too late to stop them, Cuomo said. Republican Curtis Sliwa also remains in the race, though his candidacy has been undercut from within his own party; Trump in a recent interview called him not exactly prime time. Rough showing in polls Speculation that Adams wouldnt make it to Election Day has been rampant for a year. His campaign was severely wounded by his now-dismissed federal bribery case and liberal anger over his warm relationship with President Donald Trump. He skipped the Democratic primary and got on the ballot as an independent. Polls conducted in early September illustrated his challenges. One poll by The New York Times and Siena University and another by Quinnipiac University showed likely voters favoring Mamdani over Cuomo, with Sliwa and Adams trailing further behind. The Quinnipiac poll suggested the gap between Mamdani and Cuomo could narrow if Adams dropped out. The Times/Siena poll suggested that if both Adams and Sliwa withdrew, Mamdanis advantage over Cuomo could shrink even further. Sliwa, though, has repeatedly insisted he will not quit. Curtis Sliwa is the only candidate who can defeat Mamdani, his spokesperson, Daniel Kurzyna, said Sunday. In recent weeks, Trump administration intermediaries interested in blocking Mamdanis path to victory by getting him into a one-on-one matchup with Cuomo had approached Adams to see if he could be coaxed out of the contest with an offer of a government job. Amid reports on those discussions, Adams called a news conference where he pledged to keep running and derided Cuomo and Mamdani as spoiled brats. Later, on social media, Adams called Cuomo a liar and a snake. Indictment overshadows progress Adams, 65, is the citys second Black mayor. A former New York City police captain and Brooklyn borough president, he took office in 2022 promising to crack down on crime and revitalize a city still bouncing back from the coronavirus pandemic. On his signature issue, he succeeded. Crime rates that ticked upward after COVID-19 hit the city have fallen back to pre-pandemic levels, though it is unclear how much that had to do with Adams policies. But scandals and corruption probes have crippled Adams chances at another term. Over a head-spinning period of weeks last year, his police commissioner, schools chancellor and several deputy mayors resigned following a series of federal raids on their homes. None have faced criminal charges. Then, in late September, federal prosecutors brought fraud and bribery charges accusing Adams of accepting illegal campaign contributions and steep travel discounts from a Turkish official and others in exchange for accelerating the opening of Turkeys diplomatic building, among other favors. Trump intervenes Adams denied wrongdoing and pledged to remain in office. But he also began speaking warmly about Trump, then seen as having a growing chance of regaining the White House. He defended Trump in media briefings, urged his party to tone down rhetoric against the Republican and refrained from criticizing him. After Trump won, Adams met with Trumps border czar, Thomas Homan. Then, in February, Trumps Justice Department ordered federal prosecutors in New York to drop the charges against Adams so the mayor could assist with the Republican presidents immigration agenda. The extraordinary intervention triggered fresh tumult in City Hall and the Manhattan U.S. Attorneys Office, with some of Adams closest allies suggesting he had struck a deal with the White House for his freedom. Adams announced he would skip the June Democratic primary but would stay in the race. In late August, Adams former top adviser who served as a campaign volunteer was hit with fresh bribery charges. Another former aide was removed from the campaign after handing a potato chip bag full of cash to a local reporter. New York Gov. Kathy Hochul, who has endorsed Mamdani, said after Adams announcement that she has been proud to have worked with him for the past four years, adding in her statement that he leaves the city better than he inherited it. A Newton therapist has agreed to plead guilty to secretly investing $600,000 of his patients money as part of an online investment romance scam, the Massachusetts U.S. Attorneys Office announced Friday. Eric Brown, 76, is charged with two counts of wire fraud and one count of engaging in an unlawful money transaction, the U.S. Attorneys office said in a press release. In February 2022, a patient of Browns whod been hit by a drunk driver and awarded $700,000 as part of a settlement asked him to serve as the trustee for the settlement, the U.S. Attorneys office said. As the trustee, Brown had exclusive control over the victims money and a duty to use it for the victims health, support and maintenance. Brown subsequently fell victim to an online investment romance scam, the U.S. Attorneys office said. At the direction of the scammer, who was pretending to be in an online relationship with him, he depleted the trust without telling his patient why and invested $600,000 of their money overseas. Brown is also accused of deceiving a relative of his into lending him $310,000 as a result of the scam, the U.S. Attorneys office said. He lied to his relative, telling them he needed the money for improvements to an office building he owned when he, in fact, intended to invest the funds in the scam. Brown faces up to 50 years in prison, nine years of supervised release and fines up to $1 million on the charges. His plea hearing has not yet been scheduled, the U.S. Attorneys office said. The McLuck promo code is one of the best Massachusetts sweeps casino bonuses, rewarding new players with up to 57.5K GC + 27.5 free SC. 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Opting for a first-time deposit at McLuck rewards new players with 50K GC and 25 free SC. That package only costs $9.99 when you sign up at our link. Use that added value (150% extra coins) at high RTP games like baccarat and blackjack. Can you can turn those free SC into cash prizes? Springfield will sell this dilapidated but historic property at 60 Byers St. to a developer for $1,000 in order to promote its preservation. (The Republican / file photo) SPRINGFIELD The City Council has agreed to sell a historic building to a real estate company after officials said this may be the last chance for the unique property. Icarian Real Estate Advisors LLC was selected as the preferred developer to restore 60 Byers St., described as a dilapidated but important home in the city. The distress level of this property is very significant, Tina Quagliato Sullivan, deputy development officer for the city, told the council last week. If the property continues to sit there is not going to be another option beyond demolition. She predicted the building would not survive another winter. Already, the interior second and first floors have collapsed into the basement. After taking the property through tax title in 2017, the city has been trying to find a way to restore it. This is not the first time the city has found a developer, but that project fizzled and the city reclaimed the home. The home was built by Thurston Munson in a modern Frank Lloyd Wright-style and includes a boarded-up wall of glass windows that in good times offered views of the city. Springfield will sell this dilapidated but historic property at 60 Byers St. to a developer for $1,000 in order to promote its preservation. (The Republican / file photo) It is a single-building local historic district located across from the Springfield Armory National Historic Site. The condition is so poor it is on Historic Preservation Trusts list of most endangered properties. Question of experience When the city put out a request for proposals in March, officials questioned if anyone would be interested. It did receive three responses but one was non-responsive and a second submitted limited plans, Sullivan said. Icarian Real Estate, an offshoot of the Macmillan Group real estate company, showed it had the money and experience to tackle the complicated project. Principals of Icarian are Macmillan head Demetrios N. Panteleakis and Walter J. Kroll, vice president of development for the company, as well as a member of Springfields Historical Commission, Sullivan said. The company has rehabbed several historic properties along Mill Street that were also in poor condition. The companys proposal is to preserve the outside of the building and renovate and build three apartments inside, two of which will be deemed affordable, Sullivan said. The property is assessed at $107,000 and will be sold for $1,000. The Community Preservation Act Committee has attached a $300,000 grant to the property to make the project more attractive. I say that the amount of rehab that is needed here vastly exceeds the value of the property, Sullivan said. City Councilor Tracye Whitfield aired concerns that the same people are continually selected as preferred developers, leaving out less-experienced entrepreneurs. She called for the city to set up a program that would require experienced developers who are selected for projects to include a training program that will match them with new business owners. Springfield will sell this dilapidated but historic property at 60 Byers St. to a developer for $1,000 in order to promote its preservation. (The Republican / file photo) The city does send an email blast to several hundred developers who have signed up to receive information about requests for proposals and bid requests. Sullivan said she will be happy to help anyone who wants to be added to the list. In a previous interview, Kroll said Icarian hopes to be able to start work in early fall to replace the leaking roof and otherwise secure the property so it does not continue to fail over the winter. Construction is expected to take 12 to 14 months. Video News: [Video news] Talk Series #8 : Lassiette de demain : quels sont les enjeux au menu ? [Video News] La combinaison gagnante du Loto Vert du 31 octobre 2025[Video News]3 edition Sustainability Forum du Journal des Archipels[Video news] Reouverture de la Triolet Women Empowerment Centre[Video news]Kerastase illumine Maurice : Gloss Absolu, la nouvelle revolution capillaire devoilee par BrandActiv[Video News] Les numeros gagnants du tirage du Loto et Loto Plus du 29 octobre 2025Deces de Floyd Roger Myers Jr.[Video news]Andrey & Julia Dashins Foundation Champions Youth Training and Employability Through National TWA Pu Lavenir (Train. Work. 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"Pursuant to the process set forth in paragraphs 11 and 12 of Security Council resolution 2231 (2015), effective on 27 September at 8 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time, all provisions of resolutions 1696 (2006), 1737 (2006), 1747 (2007), 1803 (2008), 1835 (2008) and 1929 (2010) have been re-applied in the same manner as they applied before the adoption of resolution 2231 (2015) on 20 July 2015," said a note to correspondents from the Office of the Spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General. The note said that accordingly, the sanctions list maintained by the Security Council Committee established pursuant to resolution 1737 has been re-established and includes 43 individuals and 78 entities that were listed before the adoption of resolution 2231. The note listed the individuals and entities that have been added back to the United Nations Security Council Consolidated Sanctions List. Last month, France, Britain and Germany formally invoked the snapback mechanism, which allowed for the re-imposition of UN sanctions within 30 days if Iran was deemed in breach of a 2015 nuclear deal, formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). On Sept. 19, the UN Security Council failed to adopt a resolution that would have extended sanctions relief for Iran under the JCPOA. A subsequent resolution, which sought to grant a six-month extension to both the JCPOA and Resolution 2231, also failed to pass in the Security Council on Friday. The Citizens Information Network in Ireland celebrates its 50th year in operation this year. Citizens Information provides a free, impartial and confidential service to the public on a wide range of areas including social welfare and employment rights, health services, housing, education, family matters and consumer rights When Mayo Citizens Information Service first opened its doors, it was staffed by volunteers. Now with a core group of permanent staff members, scheme workers and volunteers, Citizens Information continues to advise the public on a daily basis. Tomas Lally, Development Manager of Mayo CIS stated: Citizens Information provides a crucial information and advice service to the public, informing them of their rights and entitlements. The service also offers advocacy support where necessary, helping people who need non-legal representation. Many people come through our doors feeling confused and anxious but leave our service confident and reassured in the knowledge that they have easy access to a trusted and supportive service. On the anniversary of its establishment, the Citizens Information Network acknowledges and celebrates the men and women who have contributed to the delivery of this crucial public service over the last fifty years, In particular, I would like to remember the contribution of people like Kitty Howley, Jackie Gleason, Kay Dolan, Maire Ruane, Sr Juliet Walsh, Tony Cawley and others who were responsible for the establishment of the service in the county. Mayo CIS has offices located in Castlebar, Ballina, Belmullet, Claremorris and Westport. They are part of South Connacht Citizens Information Service which provides services in Galway, Mayo and Roscommon. In 2024, South Connacht Information Service provided information, advice and advocacy services to 30,082 clients and dealt with 57,215 queries. The demand for advice continues to grow. The increasing move of public services and application processes online has led to real accessibility issues for many members of the public. By far the biggest issues facing clients continue to be administrative barriers and gaps in information; having one-to-one support from an Information Officer in situations like this is essential. Staff at Mayo CIS undertake training on an ongoing basis to update their knowledge and skills, and they work hard to provide a caring and empathetic service which empowers the clients they work with, while achieving the best possible outcome for them. No appointment is necessary to meet with an Information Officer. Threshold, the housing advice agency, delivers outreach clinics at our Castlebar office on the first and third Wednesday of each month. READ MORE: Mayo Minister launches Intreo Work and Skills Events The posters are up in Mayo for Jim Gavins presidential campaign and Fianna Fail Minister for Rural Development, Dara Calleary is looking forward to canvassing with him in the next couple of weeks. The Ballina-based Minister recalls meeting Jim Gavin for the first time last April at the Ballina Stephenites fundraising dinner in Dublin, alongside his friend David Brady. READ MORE: An Coimisiun Pleanala overrule inspector to grant permission for 'modest' west Mayo house Jim knows the county very well. His grandfather moved to Clare from just outside Claremorris. And he's very proud of that link, and spoke to me about it a lot in the last several weeks. The former Dublin GAA manager broke Mayo hearts during his very success reign, as the two counties went toe to toe. Dublin ultimately triumphing and lifting the Sam Maguire six times. Jim Gavin cherishes that connection to the county, Minister for Public Expenditure, Jack Chambers tells The Mayo News in Westport. Chambers is a regular visitor to the area as his granny lives just outside Newport. People mightnt have heard about it when he was manager of Dublin, but I know he's really looking forward to meeting people. He's going to go to Mayo to see his own roots in Claremorris in the next couple of weeks, the Deputy Leader of the Fianna Fail Party explains. READ MORE: Appeal for Mayo poster free presidential election He's really looking forward to it. He's got lots of strong bonds with the county and respect that was built up during those years where the two teams were playing, and I know many Mayo players and others would have enormous respect and time and regard for Jim Gavin. The work he does in the context of our national sport. The biggest volunteer and community organization, the GAA and the work he's done was being acknowledged by everyone across the country as making a real contribution to improving our sport, and also his role in the Defence Forces too." Both the campaign teams of the other Presidential candidates, Catherine Connolly and Heather Humphreys, have been contacted to see if they plan to campaign in Mayo. READ MORE: Mayo crackdown on speeding e-scooters enabled by new technology AI can create realistic embryoid images to study human embryo development objectively under varying conditions. Trusted Source Deep manifold learning reveals hidden developmental dynamics of a human embryo model Go to source Trusted Source The Challenge of Unlocking Developmental Secrets TOP INSIGHT #AI is transforming #developmentalbiology! It can now analyze features & protein markers to pinpoint the exact processes of tissue growth and cell differentiation during #humandevelopment. #Biotech Advertisement Advertisement AI Neural Networks Analyze Thousands of Microscopy Images Deep manifold learning reveals hidden developmental dynamics of a human embryo model - (https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.adr8901) Researchers are working to better understand the earliest stages of human development by creating lab-grown models using inducedThese cells, which are reprogrammed to act like embryonic stem cells, have the potential to transform into any type of cell in the body ().The first major step was building realistic three-dimensional embryo-like models. The next challenge lies in studying them closely to uncover how development unfolds.A paper from the lab of Jianping Fu, Ph.D. of the University of Michigan Medical School usesExperimental systems, like the one Fu and his team developed originally in 2017 and generated by other teams since, are hard to study because they are heterogenous, meaning there are many different and random features, explains Fu.We see very different cell types and structures within the culture so it can be hard to make sense of what were seeing, said Fu.Traditionally, one way to overcome this is to examine the samples at specific points in time and average how they change over time.Building from previous work, Fus former graduate student Kejie Chen, Ph.D., proposed using AI to analyze the culture data.I happened to see several papers about using AI models (i.e., physics-informed neural network) to analyze the images of plants. These papers showed very promising results about how to applyInspired by these works, I immediately thought that I should try these methods for my research, said Chen.Chen is first author of the paper describing the results in the journalThe most is essential developmental features oftentimes can be masked because [the model] is so heterogeneous and what you're really looking for is embedded within that heterogeneity, added Fu.The team applied AI neural networks to thousands of images collected with confocal fluorescent microscopy at concrete time points.The images record the size and shape of tissues as well as stained protein markers with each tissue.Thesays Fu.AI tools are very powerful and can extract fine features that oftentimes can be overlooked by human eyes, he added.Specifically, the AI tool provided a clearer understanding of bifurcation, the various decision points during development in which stem cells differentiate into different cell types.The tool has powerful implications for future research, including high throughput screening applications and a better understanding of how the early developmental process can go awry, says Fu.In the longer term, said Fu, AI could even be used to generate artificial but realistic embryoid images to understand, in an unbiased way, how a human embryo will develop under different conditions.Source-Eurekalert The flu vaccine helps protect against seasonal influenza by preparing your immune system to fight the virus. Trusted Source Recommendations announced for influenza vaccine composition for the 2026 southern hemisphere influenza season Go to source Trusted Source TOP INSIGHT The #WHO just dropped its official recommendations for the 2026 Southern Hemisphere #fluvaccine composition. This crucial early planning helps manufacturers target the strains we'll be fighting next year. #FluShot #Vaccines #PublicHealth #Influenza #GlobalHealth Why Annual Flu Vaccine Updates Are Essential A/Missouri/11/2025 (H1N1)pdm09-like virus A/Singapore/GP20238/2024 (H3N2)-like virus B/Austria/1359417/2021 (B/Victoria lineage)-like virus A/Missouri/11/2025 (H1N1)pdm09-like virus A/Sydney/1359/2024 (H3N2)-like virus B/Austria/1359417/2021 (B/Victoria lineage)-like virus B/Yamagata Antigen Still Not Recommended in Flu Vaccines Advertisement Recommendations announced for influenza vaccine composition for the 2026 southern hemisphere influenza season - (https://www.who.int/news/item/26-09-2025-recommendations-announced-for-influenza-vaccine-composition-for-the-2026-southern-hemisphere-influenza-season) The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued its recommendations for the composition of).The announcement followed a four-day consultation with global influenza experts and was presented at an official information session.BecauseWHO holds two such consultations each yearone for the northern hemisphere and one for the southern hemispheredrawing on global surveillance data from the WHO Global Influenza Surveillance and Response System (GISRS) and its collaborating partners.The guidance forms the foundation for vaccine manufacturers, regulators, and public health authorities as they prepare seasonal flu vaccines For theThe expert group reaffirmed its stanceunchanged since 2023that including a B/Yamagata lineage antigen is no longer necessary.However, in regions still using quadrivalent vaccines, the B/Phuket/3073/2013-like virus from the B/Yamagata lineage will remain as the fourth component until the transition to trivalent vaccines is complete.In addition to seasonal vaccine recommendations, WHO has updated candidate vaccine virus development for zoonotic influenza strains to strengthen pandemic preparedness.Source-Medindia PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) President Donald Trump said Saturday that he will send troops to Portland, authorizing Full Force, if necessary to handle domestic terrorists as he expands his deployments to more American cities. Oregon Democratic Gov. Tina Kotek responded by saying Trump is abusing his authority by ordering troops into a city that she said is doing just fine on its own. She was joined by other government, police and business leaders who all said soldiers are not needed and Trump is presenting a patently false picture of the city. Trump made his announcement on social media, writing that he was directing the Department of Defense to provide all necessary Troops to protect War ravaged Portland. Trump said the decision was necessary to protect U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement facilities, which he alleged are under siege from attack by Antifa, and other domestic terrorists. The White House did not immediately respond to a request for details on Trumps announcement, such as a timeline for the deployment or what troops would be involved. Governor says troops not needed In an afternoon news conference, Kotek said she directly told Trump and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem earlier in the day that troops are not needed and she believes he does not have the authority to deploy the military there. We can manage our own local public safety needs. There is no insurrection. There is no threat to national security, Kotek told reporters. The governor said she tried to understand his reasoning during their conversation and his response was just, Lets keep talking. This is an American city. We do not need any intervention, Mayor Keith Wilson said at the news conference. This is not a military target. Kotek said the president did not give a timetable for troops arriving. She said she told him the Oregon National Guard is not needed and she does not plan to call it up. Trump, however, previously deployed guard soldiers and active duty Marines in Los Angeles even though California Gov. Gavin Newsom opposed it. The federal government is appealing a judge's ruling that Trump's use of the guard was illegal. Kotek urged the public to stay calm, saying any kind of property damage or violence will not be tolerated. Lets not take the bait, she said. Lets not respond to what the president is trying to do. Residents ask, Wheres the emergency?' Earlier Saturday, there was no sign of any federal presence downtown, where people jogged along the Willamette River, relaxed by a riverside fountain or rode bikes on a sunny fall day. Wheres the emergency? asked resident Allen Schmertzler, 72, who said he was disgusted by the presidents decision. Another, John McNeur, 74, called Trump's statement ridiculous. He pointed out that he was taking a leisurely stroll along the river on a peaceful, sunny day. This place is not a city thats out of control, he said. Its just a beautiful place. Trump has also named Chicago and Memphis Trump previously threatened to send the National Guard into Chicago but has yet to follow through. A deployment in Memphis, Tennessee, is expected soon and will include only about 150 troops, far less than were sent to the District of Columbia for Trumps crackdown on crime or to Los Angeles in response to immigration protests that turned violent with the troops arrival. In Memphis, about 80 to 100 people marched to a plaza in front of City Hall to protest the expected arrival next week of the guard and more than a dozen federal law enforcement agencies, ranging from immigration to drug enforcement. Protesters held signs with messages such as Resources Not Task Forces and Memphis dont need no occupation, Memphis dont need no government control a play on the Pink Floyd song Another Brick in the Wall. Speakers said beforehand that instead of federal troops and agents, Memphis needs more funding for education, crime prevention, youth services and hospitals. The Oregon officials made similar comments. Few details from the Pentagon Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell said the Department of Defense would provide information and updates when available. We stand ready to mobilize U.S. military personnel in support of DHS operations in Portland at the Presidents direction," Parnell said. A spokesperson for the Oregon National Guard, Lt. Col. Stephen Bomar, said via email that no official requests have been received at this time for Guard support. Any requests would need to be coordinated through the Governors office, he added. Oregon's congressional delegation, with the exception of GOP Rep. Cliff Bentz, demanded that the Trump administration keep federal agents and troops out of Portland. This unilateral action represents an abuse of executive authority, seeks to incite violence, and undermines the constitutional balance of power between the federal government and states, the Democratic lawmakers wrote in a letter to Trump, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Noem. Protests in Portland Portland, population 636,000, was the site of long-running and sometimes violent racial justice protests following George Floyds killing by Minneapolis police in 2020. The Trump administration sent hundreds of agents, including from the U.S. Border Patrol, for the stated purpose of protecting the federal courthouse and other federal property from vandalism. Late Saturday evening, a small crowd of protesters gathered on the sidewalk outside the ICE facility. One person was arrested by federal law enforcement after a brief confrontation as ICE agents cleared a path for a vehicle exiting the facility. Recent demonstrations have been far more muted and focused on the area around the ICE building. Its located outside downtown, which was the heart of the 2020 protests. Its main entrance and ground-floor windows have been boarded up and were previously tagged with graffiti. Some federal agents have been injured and several protesters have been charged with assault. Some demonstrators also say they have been injured. When protesters erected a prop guillotine earlier this month, the Department of Homeland Security called it unhinged behavior. Police Chief Bob Day said at the news conference that his agency does not participate in immigration enforcement. He said afterward that Federal Protective Services is responsible for the ICE building and police would intervene only against vandalism or criminal activity in the surrounding area. The city said this month that it would issue a land use violation notice to its ICE building because it was used to detain people overnight or for more than 12 hours violations of its conditional land use approval. DHS said detainees are briefly processed before being sent to other detention facilities. Portland is one of a number of so-called sanctuary cities. There is no strict definition for sanctuary cities, but the term generally describes places that limit cooperation with ICE. Portland officials stress the city's recovery City groups and officials have sought to highlight the recovery of the downtown area since 2020. This summer was reportedly the busiest for pedestrian traffic since before the pandemic, and overall violent crime from January through June decreased by 17% compared with the same period in 2024, a recent report from the Major Cities Chiefs Association found. The downtown has seen a decrease in homeless encampments. Since the Sept. 10 assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, Trump has escalated efforts to confront what he calls the radical left, which he blames for political violence. Were going to get out there and were going to do a pretty big number on those people in Portland, Trump said Thursday in the Oval Office. He called such people professional agitators and anarchists. ___ Megerian reported from Washington. Associated Press writers Konstantin Toropin in Washington, Adrian Sainz in Memphis, Tennessee, and Steve Karnowski in Minneapolis contributed. WASHINGTON (AP) Tensions between the United States and Colombia have escalated with the State Department announcing it was revoking a visa for Gustavo Petro, president of the Latin American country, after he participated in a New York protest where he called on American soldiers to disobey President Donald Trump's orders. The department said on social media that we will revoke Petros visa due to his reckless and incendiary actions. Petro was visiting for the annual U.N. General Assembly. During a nearby protest Friday over the war in Gaza, he said I ask all the soldiers of the United States' army, don't point your rifles against humanity" and disobey the orders of Trump. Petro returned to Colombia on Saturday as intended, in accordance with a Sept. 18 decree on the delegation of powers during his absence. He said on X that he found out about his visa status upon his arrival. The State Department did not answer questions about whether the revocation would affect future visits. Petro, Colombias first leftist president, used a post on X addressed to Trump to say that international law grants me immunity to go to the U.N. and that there should be no reprisals for my free opinion, because I am a free person. Petro, who has a history of speaking off the cuff in meandering, ideologically charged speeches, also said on social media that I don't care about the punishment because he is also a European citizen. That means he does not need a visa to travel to the U.S. Colombia broke diplomatic ties with Israel last year over the Israel-Hamas war. Petro has repeatedly described Israels siege of Gaza as genocide. Colombia has long been a top U.S. ally in Latin America, cooperating closely on the fight against drug trafficking. But there have been repeated clashes between Petro, a former rebel group member, and Trump's Republican administration. In his General Assembly speech Tuesday, Petro called for a criminal investigation of Trump and other officials involved in this months deadly strikes on boats in the Caribbean that the White House has said were transporting drugs. The White House has offered scant information about how the operations came together or the legal authorities under which they were carried out. Earlier this year, Petro resisted deportation flights using American military aircraft, leading to a diplomatic crisis as Trump threatened to retaliate with higher tariffs and visa suspensions. The U.S. is Colombia's largest trading partner, and Petro's government relented, saying it would accept the planes. The U.S. accused Colombia earlier this month of failing to cooperate with anti-narcotics efforts. Although the designation did not include sanctions that would have slashed U.S. assistance to the country, it was a sharp rebuke that frustrated Petro. He said his country had lost the lives of policemen, soldiers and regular citizens, trying to stop cocaine from reaching the United States. ___ Associated Press writer Regina Garcia Cano in Caracas, Venezuela, contributed to this report. A man battles against raging flames in Etosha National Park, Namibia, on Sept. 27, 2025. Namibia's Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism said on Sunday that wildfires in Etosha National Park have burned more than a third of the park, with extensive ecological damage and confirmed wildlife losses. (Namibia's Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism/Handout via Xinhua) WINDHOEK, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- Namibia's Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism said on Sunday that wildfires in Etosha National Park have burned more than a third of the park, with extensive ecological damage and confirmed wildlife losses. In a statement, the ministry said about 775,163 hectares, roughly 34 percent of the park, have been scorched since fires started on Sept. 22 in the southwestern part, while another 171,098 hectares of grazing land and communal areas outside the park in the Omusati and Oshana regions have been affected. At least nine antelope carcasses have been found in the fire-affected areas, while a pangolin was rescued, the ministry said, warning that the full impact on wildlife could be higher as assessments continue. "The wildfire crisis in Etosha National Park and surrounding areas poses a significant threat to Namibia's biodiversity, local livelihoods, and critical infrastructure," the ministry said. The ministry noted that the authorities have intensified firefighting efforts, deploying an additional 40 soldiers, a water tanker and two helicopters, with more military personnel expected to join operations. The Etosha National Park is a major tourist destination in Namibia, drawing thousands of visitors annually to see its wildlife and salt pan landscape. A man battles against raging flames in Etosha National Park, Namibia, on Sept. 27, 2025. Namibia's Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism said on Sunday that wildfires in Etosha National Park have burned more than a third of the park, with extensive ecological damage and confirmed wildlife losses. (Namibia's Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism/Handout via Xinhua) September 30: As expected, Fedde went unclaimed on waivers and was outrighted, reports Adam McCalvy of MLB.com. He can stick in the organization for the rest of the postseason in case injuries open a path back to the big league bullpen. September 28: The Brewers announced today that left-hander DL Hall and right-hander Trevor Megill have been reinstated from the 15-day injured list. In corresponding moves, they have optioned right-hander Carlos Rodriguez and designated righty Erick Fedde for assignment. It was reported in recent days that Megill would likely be back from the IL today. Fedde, 32, was picked up off the scrap heap about a month ago. A rough first half with the Cardinals led to him being designated for assignment in July. He landed with Atlanta but was released a few weeks into August. The Brewers had suffered a few injuries and brought Fedde aboard. Since then, he absorbed 16 innings over seven appearances out of the Milwaukee bullpen. His 3.38 earned run average in that time was fine but his matching 10.6% strikeout and walk rates were both subpar. Milwaukee has just one regular season game remaining and then have a bye through the Wild Card round. They dont really need a long reliever anymore and Fedde wasnt going to be in line for playoff innings, so hes been bumped off the roster. Hell be placed on outright or release waivers now but there will be no point in any club putting in a claim. He wouldnt be postseason eligible with any other team and he is a free agent at seasons end. He would have the right to reject an outright assignment and elect free agency, though he might accept an outright for the off-chance that the Brewers suffer some injuries and need him later in October. Overall, between his three clubs, Fedde logged 141 innings this year with a 5.49 ERA, 13.3% strikeout rate, 10% walk rate and 40.4% ground ball rate. Thats a hugely disappointed campaign when compared to his 2024 season. After a seeming breakout in Korea in 2023, he returned to North American ball by signing a two-year, $15MM deal with the White Sox. The first year of that pact worked out quite well. Last season, he tossed 177 1/3 innings with a 3.30 ERA, 21.2% strikeout rate, 7.2% walk rate and 42.1% ground ball rate. The Cards acquired him from the White Sox ahead of the deadline. Hell face a far softer market in his return to free agency this winter. Photo courtesy of Michael McLoone, Imagn Images The Dodgers added a multi-inning arm to the pitching staff, selecting veteran lefty Andrew Heaney onto the major league roster. Righty Will Klein was optioned after he threw 30 pitches last night, which presumably took him out of the mix for the final two games of the regular season. The Dodgers opened a 40-man roster spot by recalling righty Nick Frasso and placing him on the major league 60-day injured list. Frassos injury is unknown; hell collect a little over $8K and pick up his first two days of service time for a weekend on the MLB roster. Heaney signed a minor league deal with the Dodgers a couple days after he was released by the Pirates. They got that across the finish line just before the noon Eastern deadline on September 1 for players to be eligible for postseason play. Heaney would be available for L.A. in October, though its likelier theyre bringing him up to eat some low-leverage innings against the Mariners tonight or tomorrow. The Dodgers are already locked into the #3 seed in the National League. Theyll host the Mets or Reds in a Wild Card Series that begins on Tuesday. The final two regular season games are irrelevant for playoff seeding. (Seattle is guaranteed to be the #2 seed in the American League, so this doesnt mean much to them either.) The focus is on arranging their pitching staff to be in the best shape possible for next week. They limited Emmet Sheehan to one inning in last nights start. Sheehan will move to the bullpen in the postseason and could be the best right-hander in a spotty relief corps. Tyler Glasnow starts tonight. Hes their presumed Game 3 starter behind Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Blake Snell. Glasnow would be on regular rest for that contest, which would be played on Thursday if they split the first two of that three-game set. Still, it wouldnt be a surprise if they lift Glasnow after an abbreviated start tonight to make sure hes fresh for that outing. Clayton Kershaw is listed as tomorrows starter. He might be in the playoff bullpen, so that appearance may last only an inning or two as well. Heaney logged 120 1/3 innings over 26 appearances (23 starts) with Pittsburgh. He posted a 2.50 ERA through the end of April but saw his numbers regress with each month. Heaney allowed at least 4.74 earned runs per nine in each of the following four months. That included 15 earned across 13 1/3 frames in August that led Pittsburgh to move on. He was much better with Triple-A Oklahoma City after signing with the Dodgers. The 34-year-old tossed 10 innings of one-run ball with 13 strikeouts and two walks. WATERFORD, MI - Its a small comic con with everything pop culture fans want in an event like this. Today is the final day for Michigans first Fantasticon taking place from 11am - 5pm at the Oakland Expo Center at 2212 Mall Street East in Waterford in Metro Detroit. Celebrities? Check. Panels? Check. TV and movie cars? Check. Cosplay? Check. Games, art, memorabilia? Check, check and check. You never know who youll meet at an event like this. We ran into a police officer from Flint who told Erik Estrada and Larry Wilcox, Jon and Ponch from CHiPs, that they inspired him to become a member of law enforcement. Other celebrities at the event include Butch Patrick (The Munsters), Jeremy London (Mallrats, 7th Heaven), Eugene Clark (Land of the Dead), and Marta Kristen (Lost in Space). You can watch our video interview with Estrada and Wilcox here. Tickets to Fantasticon can be purchased here or at the door for $18. Most autograph and celebrity photos are around $40. UPDATE: A second victim has died after the mass shooting at a Michigan church, police said. GENESEE COUNTY, MI A man drove through the front door of a church during Sunday service, exited his vehicle and opened fire. The church shooting left one victim dead and nine others injured, police said during a Sunday afternoon press conference. The gunman, identified only as a 40-year-old Burton man, was fatally shot after exchanging gunfire with Grand Blanc Township police. An active shooter was reported at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 4285 McCandlish Road, in Grand Blanc. Grand Blanc Township police Chief William Renye provided additional details Sunday afternoon surrounding what he called a completely unnecessary and avoidable incident. The man drove his vehicle through the churchs front door around 10:25 a.m. as hundreds of churchgoers attended Sunday service, Renye said. The man exited his vehicle and began firing an assault rifle, Renye said. One person was killed, and nine others were hospitalized with various injuries. At some point during the chaos, the church was deliberately set on fire by the man, police said. The fire has since been extinguished, Renye said. Investigators will begin looking into the mans residence and cell phone records to try and determine a motive. Police plan to provide additional information at a 5 p.m. press conference on Sunday. An MLive file photo of signage indicating a road closure in West Michigan. Dozens of projects will require closures throughout the state this week. (Bradley Massman | MLive.com) Michigans warm weather is holding on as the calendar flips to October, meaning continued good conditions for road construction. More than 70 road projects and special events will begin between Sunday, Sept. 28, and Saturday, Oct. 4, resulting in various levels of closures on the states primary roads, according to the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT). Drivers should be aware of closures on I-75 in Monroe and Oakland counties, U.S. 131 in Kalamazoo County, M-54 in Genesee County, I-94 in Washtenaw and Wayne counties, and U.S. 31 in Muskegon County. Below is a summary of 10 closures to watch for this week. All projects are weather-dependent. State officials remind drivers to slow down and follow posted signage in work zones. A complete list of road projects is available through MDOTs online map and construction list. I-94 in Washtenaw County Starting at 9 a.m. Tuesday, eastbound I-94 will have one lane closed daily from Pinewood Street to Burr Oak Drive. The closure is scheduled from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. through Oct. 9. U.S. 131 in Kalamazoo County The highway will have its left lane closed in each direction for about six hours daily from Business Route U.S. 131 and H Avenue. The closure period is scheduled from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily Monday through Friday. M-89 in Allegan County A single-lane closure is scheduled to begin Monday morning on Lincoln Road (M-89) between 113th Avenue and Jefferson Road. The lane closure will be necessary from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily through Friday. M-54 in Genesee County Crews will close parts of Dort Highway (M-54) between Atherton Road and Lapeer Road daily through late October. Single-lane closures are scheduled from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily. I-94 in Wayne County The exit ramp from eastbound I-94 to northbound Southfield Freeway (M-39) will have the left lane closed for construction starting Monday. Work is expected to conclude in mid-December. The Southfield entrance ramps to I-94 will be closing Monday as well, with an expected open date of Dec. 19. During the closure, drivers will be detoured using M-153, McGraw Avenue, and Weir Street. I-75BL in Oakland County Southbound Woodward Avenue (I-75 BL) will have two lanes closed for six hours Tuesday in Pontiac. The work area will stretch from Huron Street (M-59) to Orchard Lake Road, with two lanes closed from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The ongoing total closure of Auburn Road near Woodward Avenue may also add to traffic congestion. U.S. 31 in Muskegon County A six-hour single-lane closure is scheduled for U.S. 31 at Pontaluna Road. One lane will be shut down from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday. U.S. 12 in Berrien County One eastbound lane of Buffalo Street (U.S. 12) from Abby Lane to Clay Street will be closing at 7 a.m. Wednesday in New Buffalo. Intermittent lane closures are planned until Oct. 17. I-75 in Monroe County The northbound highway will have intermittent double-lane closures overnight Thursday in the area between Otter Creek Road and the Monroe Welcome Center. The closure is slated for 8 p.m. Thursday to 5 a.m. Friday. The northbound segment between Erie Road and Otter Creek Road will have double-lane closures from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday and Friday. Additionally, two lanes in both directions around Dunbar Road will be closed from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday. Saginaw Road/Dixie Highway in Genesee and Oakland counties Starting at 10 a.m. Friday, crews are scheduled to close southbound Saginaw Road/Dixie Highway from Baldwin Road to Belford Road. The road will be closed through the weekend. Drivers will be detoured using Baldwin Road, Holly Road and Grange Hall Road. Lincoln Park Zoo is expecting an eastern black rhino calf in the spring. Chicago's free zoo recently announced that Kapuki is pregnant with her third calf. Todd Rosenberg via Lincoln Park Zoo A baby eastern black rhinoceros will soon be welcomed at Chicagos free zoo. Lincoln Park Zoo announced this week that Kapuki is pregnant and expected to give birth in early spring 2026. This calf will be 20-year-old Kapukis third birth at the zoo, and her first with 21-year-old male Utenzi. Every birth matters to this critically endangered species, and were proud to play a role in growing the eastern black rhinoceros population, said Curator Cassy Kutilek. Kapuki is an experienced mother successfully raising King and Romeo and were looking forward to seeing her in this maternal role again soon. RELATED: You wont believe this incredible zoo is free While newborns can stand on their own within a few hours of birth, they rely on their mother for food for another one to two years. Eastern black rhinos weigh around 85 pounds at birth. Adults can weigh up to 3,000 pounds, standing 12 feet long and 5 feet tall at the shoulder. Lincoln Park Zoo is expecting an eastern black rhino calf in the spring. Chicago's free zoo recently announced that Kapuki is pregnant with her third calf. Lincoln Park Zoo The calf will make for four rhinoceroses at Regenstein African Journey; along with Kapuki and Utenzi, there is also female Lulu. Kapukis pregnancy is part of the Eastern Black Rhinoceros Species Survival Plan (SSP), a collaborative population management effort among the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) institutions. Between 1960 and 1995, their population numbers dropped 98% due to poaching, bringing the species to critically endangered status. RELATED: This free zoo is a must-see for families visiting Chicago Preservation efforts in the past 25 years have helped boost numbers; there are now around 5,000 mature individuals in the wild. Lincoln Park Zoos work extends outside the zoo gates. Its staff works collaboratively with other accredited zoos to protect the eastern black rhinoceros population and their habitats in the wild. An active shooter was reported at a church Sunday morning, Sept. 28, in Grand Blanc Township, police said. Lukas Katilius | MLive.com GENESEE COUNTY, MI A gunman who opened fire at a church Sunday morning is down and the entire building is on fire, according to Genesee Countys top law enforcement officer. An active shooter was reported at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 4285 McCandlish Road, in Grand Blanc. Police say there are multiple victims, though an exact figure has yet to be released. Sheriff Chris Swanson provided a brief update in a minute-long video shared on social media. The sheriff said his department is working with federal, state and local authorities during the investigation. Swanson said the shooter is down and the entire church is on fire. This is a dynamic scene, he said. There were certain details the sheriff said he could not release at this time but would become available later Sunday. People are still being evacuated from the church, Swanson said, and the scene is no longer a threat. An active shooter was reported at a church Sunday morning, Sept. 28, in Grand Blanc Township, police said. Lukas Katilius | MLive.com GENESEE COUNTY, MI Police are expected to release more details regarding a shooting at a church that left multiple victims. Grand Blanc Township police will hold a press conference at 1 p.m. at police headquarters. An active shooter was reported Sunday, Sept. 28, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 4285 McCandlish Road, in Grand Blanc. Multiple victims were reported, but police have not released an exact number. Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson said the shooter is down and the entire church is on fire. Police said the scene is no longer a threat, however, residents are asked to avoid the area. MLive journalists witnessed the Michigan State Police bomb squad arriving on the scene. GENESEE COUNTY, MI A conservation officer acted without hesitation the moment he engaged with a gunman during a church service, an attorney for law enforcement said. Multiple people were shot, including two who have died, Sunday, Sept. 28, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc Township. The incident unfolded around 10:25 a.m. when a 40-year-old Burton man rammed his vehicle into the building before shooting inside. Police say hundreds were in the church. Authorities said two officers one from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and one from Grand Blanc Township responded to the incident and engaged with the suspect in an exchange of gunfire. The Burton man, who has not been identified, died in a shootout. Marc Curtis, an attorney with Defender of the Blue law firm, told MLive on Sunday the DNR conservation officer involved is safe, but still concerned for the victims. Acting to protect the congregation and prevent further loss of life, the officer engaged the suspect, Curtis wrote in a text message exchange with MLive. This was a tragic event, the officer acted without hesitation to safeguard innocent lives and stop this evil. Police confirmed multiple agencies were searching the suspects home Sunday near the intersection of Atherton and Center roads in Burton. More details are expected to be released during a 5 p.m. press conference. GENESEE COUNTY, MI In the midst of Sunday worship, a man rammed his vehicle through a church and began shooting at those inside. Hundreds were in attendance when chaos unfolded at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc. One person was killed, and nine others were injured. The suspect, a 40-year-old Burton man, was fatally shot after exchanging gunfire with Grand Blanc Township police. A motive has not been determined. Police Chief William Renye briefed the public Sunday afternoon with additional details. He said the church was in service, with hundreds inside, when the Burton man drove his vehicle through the front door. The man exited the vehicle, pulled out an assault rifle and started shooting, Renye said. At some point, the church caught on fire. We are still trying to determine when and where that fire came from and how it got started, Renye said. We believe it was deliberately set by the suspect. Police plan to provide additional information at a 5 p.m. press conference on Sunday. People enjoy sunset near a jetty along the Yangon River in Yangon, Myanmar, Sept. 27, 2025. (Xinhua/Myo Kyaw Soe) YANGON, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- Rivers are lifelines for Myanmar's communities, providing water, supporting livelihoods, and connecting towns. On World Rivers Day, which falls on Sept. 28 this year, their importance and the need to protect them for future generations are highlighted. "Rivers provide water for drinking, cooking, and cleaning, making them essential for our survival," an official from the Directorate of Water Resources and Improvement of River Systems (DWIR) under the Ministry of Transport and Communications said. "Rivers are vital for agriculture, transportation, economy, and daily life. It is our responsibility to protect them. If we fail to preserve rivers, they may disappear, and future generations will bear the consequences," she said. The official explained that rivers support communities in multiple ways. Economically, they provide a low-cost and efficient mode of transportation, carrying large amounts of freight, she said. In agriculture, rivers are equally important. Since Myanmar gets most of its rainfall mainly during the rainy season, dams are built along rivers to store water. During the dry season, this water is released to irrigate farmlands and support crop production, she said. People whose livelihoods depend on rivers expressed how rivers support them. U Bo Kyi, a freight supervisor from Monywa township in Sagaing region, said, "My family has depended on the Chindwin River for our livelihood since my grandparents' time. By using river routes, we can trade, communicate, and exchange cultures." "As the world recognizes World Rivers Day, it is important for young people to realize why rivers must be preserved and how they support communities in daily life," he added. Thein Myint, a 48-year-old ferry driver, said, "I have been driving a ferry at the Sint Oh Dan ferry terminal, connecting Yangon and Dala, for about ten years, to support my family of four. My livelihood depends on the river." "Many people also rely on the river for work, and it creates a lot of job opportunities. That's why rivers are so important for the community. For ordinary people, using the river is affordable and makes carrying freight much easier. It truly supports us," he said. Thiha Zaw, 32, a porter, said, "I carry rice bags every day to support my family at the Sint Oh Dan ferry terminal. It is hard work, but the river gives us jobs and keeps the community moving. Rivers benefit not just me, but everyone in the community who depends on them." Myanmar has over 500 rivers and creeks, with major ones including the Ayeyarwady River, Chindwin River, and Sittaung River. Despite their importance, these rivers face many challenges, including erosion and floods in the rainy season and drought or low water levels in the dry season, the DWIR official said. "DWIR is working to protect the rivers and reduce these challenges. We make sure ships can carry loads along river routes safely, and we also take measures to prevent the loss of people's homes and lands in case of land erosion," she said. Communities also play a role in river conservation. People should avoid throwing trash into rivers, fishermen should avoid fishing in prohibited areas, and illegal digging of riverbanks must stop, she said. "Water is life, and rivers are our main source of fresh water. They are the lifeline of society, and without them we cannot survive," she said. Devi Thant Sin, a 78-year-old environmentalist, said the Ayeyarwady River is described as the "mother river" of Myanmar. She said that, just like the Ayeyarwady River, all rivers that support people's lives are invaluable and must be safeguarded from generation to generation. "We see rivers as living beings, as valuable as life itself. Everyone who lives on this land and drinks this water has the responsibility to preserve the rivers that sustain us," she added. People enjoy sunset near a jetty along the Yangon River in Yangon, Myanmar, Sept. 27, 2025. (Xinhua/Myo Kyaw Soe) Boats ferry passengers across the Yangon River in Yangon, Myanmar, Sept. 28, 2025. (Xinhua/Myo Kyaw Soe) Boats are seen on the Yangon River in Yangon, Myanmar, Sept. 28, 2025. (Xinhua/Myo Kyaw Soe) Ferry ships sail across the Yangon River in Yangon, Myanmar, Sept. 28, 2025. (Xinhua/Myo Kyaw Soe) This photo taken on Sept. 28, 2025 shows a view of Yangon River, Myanmar. (Xinhua/Myo Kyaw Soe) GENESEE COUNTY, MI Police have identified Thomas Jacob Sanford as the gunman who opened fire during a worship service Sunday at a church with hundreds in attendance. Investigators still do not know why Sanford, 40, of Burton, rammed his truck into the building before shooting those inside, Grand Blanc Township police Chief William Renye told reporters Sunday night. Sanford, armed with an assault rifle, was fatally shot after exchanging gunfire with police. Sanford, who went by Jake, was a graduate of 2004 Goodrich High School, according to online records. A 2007 article from The Clarkston News says he went on to serve in the U.S. Marine Corps in Okinawa, Japan, earning honors on the rifle range and achieving the rank of sergeant. At the time the article was published, Sanford was preparing to join his combat battalion in Fallujah, Iraq. A 2015 article in the Oxford Leader said he was working as a truck driver for Coca-Cola. He told the paper he had served four years in the Marine Corps. Reached by phone, Sanfords father declined to discuss his son. Four people died in Sanfords attack on the church. Eight others were wounded. Seven are in stable condition and one person remained in critical condition, Renye said. Grand Blanc Township police were called around 10:25 a.m. Sunday, Sept. 28, to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 4285 McCandlish Road, for a report of a shooting. According to Renye, Sanford was neutralized by law enforcement at 10:33 a.m. in the church parking lot. Sanford drove his vehicle through the churchs front door as hundreds of churchgoers attended Sunday service. He exited the vehicle and began firing. Police said they believe Sanford also set a large fire that quickly spread, creating a chaotic crime scene that complicated emergency response and efforts to evacuate the site. Sundays shooting has received a large amount of support both at the scene and in response across social media. President Donald Trump called the incident a horrendous attack targeting Christians. Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said her heart is breaking for the Grand Blanc community in the wake of the tragedy. Police will provide more details at a press conference at 8 p.m. Sunday. Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said violence anywhere is unaccepted hours after a gunman opened fire Sunday at a church. My heart is breaking for the Grand Blanc community, Whitmer wrote in a post on X. An active shooter was reported at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 4285 McCandlish Road, in Grand Blanc. Multiple victims were reported. I am grateful to the first responders who took action quickly, Whitmer said. We will continue to monitor this situation and hold the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in Grand Blanc close. Police have confirmed the shooter is down and the church is on fire. Residents are asked to avoid the area. Police are expected to release more details at a press conference, scheduled for 1 p.m. Editors note: The University of Michigan School of Dentistry complex is on central campus. The campus region was incorrect in a previous version of the story. ANN ARBOR, MI The University of Michigan School of Dentistry first opened in 1875 in the former home of a faculty member. After 150 years, the school is one of the top dental institutions globally. The school, celebrating its 150th anniversary, now operates in a robust research complex on central campus. Archival photos show its changes from a single home to a bustling research and patient care center. An Ann Arbor News archive photo of the University of Michigan School of Dentistry from its first year in 1875. The MLive file photo was obtained through Ann Arbor District Library's digital records. MLive file photo The idea of a UM dental school first came in 1866 when the Michigan Dental Association, then known as the Michigan State Dental Society, proposed a university-level dental education program to the UM Board of Regents. The association proposed the program three times before the regents approved its establishment in 1875, UM School of Dentistry Dean Jacques Nor said. Its first cohort had about 20 students and three faculty members. Jonathan Taft, dean of the Ohio College of Dental Surgery, was instrumental in the schools creation and became the inaugural dean of the UM College of Dental Surgery. Dr. Taft was an excellent clinician but he was very committed also to education so he wrote a textbook on operative dentistry that really was one of the very first textbooks for dental schools in the United States, Nor said. An Ann Arbor News archive photo of the UM College of Dentistry from January 1938. The photo was obtained through Ann Arbor Public Library's digital records. MLive file photo The UM School of Dental Surgery began its major partnership with the W.K. Kellogg Foundation in 1938, when the foundation provided a $236,500 grant, on top of a larger governmental grant, to help plan a building specifically for postgraduate dental studies. An Ann Arbor News archive photo of the UM School of Dentistry clinic from 1938. The photo was obtained through Ann Arbor Public Library's digital records. MLive file photo UM dental students used electric lights in their patient care throughout the twentieth century. But from the schools opening in 1875 to 1890, students could only use daylight near windows. In 1890, UM added gas lights to dental facilities to ease patient services. In 1896, the UM Board of Regents approved installations for electric lights to replace gas lights. Students argued gas lights were inadequate, especially when window light waned during the winter, according to documents obtained from Brian Williams, archivist at the Bentley Historical Library at UM, and Lynn Monson, associate director of communications at the UM School of Dentistry. An Ann Arbor News archive photo of the UM School of Dentistry from August 7, 1939. The photo was obtained through Ann Arbor Public Library's digital records. MLive file photo The new W.K. Kellogg Foundation Institute: Graduate and Postgraduate Dentistry building opened in 1940 and is still in operation at the corner of Fletcher Street and North University Avenue. University of Michigan School of Dentistry graduates lining up in front of the school building in June 1940. The MLive file photo was obtained through Ann Arbor District Library's digital records. MLive file photo The UM dental school was not immune to world events. World War I dropped class sizes by over half by 1920. Nor said the dental college adapted by reducing faculty numbers to remain financially viable. By 1947, after World War II, the graduating class had dwindled to just 11 students, the fewest in the schools history. To offset the financial challenges, the W.K. Kellogg Foundation gave a $113,000 grant to the school to buy dental tools in 1942. Jo Ann Fell, A UM dental hygiene student, watches dental student Tom Stevens examining a child's teeth in the orthodontics clinic. The MLive file photo was obtained through Ann Arbor District Library's digital records. MLive file photo The school officially added dental hygiene as a certificate program in 1921 after dentists petitioned Michigan state law to authorize dental hygienists two years prior. Dental hygiene students academic responsibilities include clinical care experience with dental students. UM established in 1964 a graduate dental hygiene program at its Horace H. Rackham School of Graduate Studies. The old dental school building was demolished in 1969. The MLive file photo was obtained through Ann Arbor District Library's digital records. MLive file photo Also in 1964, the UM Board of Regents approved a $14.9 million plan for a new dental school building. At the time, the project was the second most expensive building project in Michigan, behind the building of the Mackinac Bridge. In 1969, the old research building was demolished and the first phase of a new dental school research complex, composed of the main research wing and research tower, was complete. The second complex construction phase was finished in 1971. A headshot of Dr. Kenneth Easlick from Ann Arbor News in November 1, 1973. The MLive file photo was obtained through Ann Arbor District Library's digital records. MLive file photo Dr. Kenneth Easlick, a professor at the dental school, was another pioneer. He instituted a dentistry program for children in 1931. He also began developing a dental course specifically on pedodontics in 1932. Easlick received a joint appointment in the UM School of Public Health in 1941. An article titled "X-rays of Egyptian mummies by U-M team gives insight into a distant past" from The Ann Arbor News on August 2, 1981. Written by Max Gates, news science reporter. MLive file photo The school received international acclaim in 1976 when instructor James Harris identified a mummy as Queen Tiye, King Tuts grandmother, during his research ventures in Egypt. An article from The Ann Arbor News in 1981 traces Harris anthropological work in his book An X-Ray Atlas of the Royal Mummies. Want more Ann Arbor-area news? Bookmark the local Ann Arbor news page. GRAND BLANC TWP., MI A second person has died following a shooting Sunday, Sept. 28, at Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 4285 McCandlish Road. In an update provided via social media Sunday afternoon, Grand Blanc Township Police Chief Wiliam Renye said a second person died at a local hospital after being shot earlier in the day at the church. The update brings the number of casualties to two, with eight others having been wounded. The suspected shooter, identified only as a 40-year-old Burton man, was killed during a shootout with police. Hundreds were reportedly in attendance when the man rammed his vehicle into the and opened fire on those indise using an assault rifle. Police said they believe the man also set a large fire that quickly spread, creating a chaotic crime scene that complicated emergency response and efforts to evacuate the site. Police previously said they believe they will find additional victims once they safely search the area of the church destroyed by the fire for those who were unable to escape the blaze. Grand Blanc kid turned into superhero in new comic book that fights the flu GENSESEE COUNTY, MI A new comic based a 10-year-old Grand Blanc boy who lost both his legs due to complications of the flu is now available for purchase. Meanwhile, the Flint City Council has finally elected a president after being deadlocked over the selection for 10 months. Check out headlines from the past week to learn more about these stories and other recent Flint-area news: This 10-year-old lost both his legs to the flu. Now hes fighting back as a comic book superhero. An event celebrating the launch of a new comic book based on 10-year-old Kaden Stevensons battle with the flu was held Sept. 25 at his school in Grand Blanc. Both of Stevensons legs had to be amputated about three years ago due to complications of the flu. The comic book, Kaden Blaze Fights Flu Bug, depicts Stevenson as a superhero battling his arch enemy, the Flu Bug. Read the full story here. Swartz Creek council member urges police to end ICE cooperation agreement A member of the Swartz Creek City Council recently joined calls for the Metro Police Authority of Genesee County to end its cooperation agreement with federal immigration authorities. The council member, Rae Lynn Hicks, also serves on the police authoritys board, cited public opposition to the agreement with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) when she asked Chief Matt Blade to rescind it during a recent board meeting. Read the full story here. Man accused of sexually assaulting teen while HIV positive given 20-year sentence A Genesee County Circuit Court Judge recently sentenced a man accused of sexually assaulting a 15-year-old boy despite knowing he had HIV to a minimum of 20 years in prison. Cole pleaded no contest to three charges stemming from the alleged incident in July, including first-degree criminal sexual conduct. He faces a maximum of 40 years in prison. Read the full story here. After 735 rounds of voting, this Michigan city has finally elected a council president The Flint City Council elected a new president for 2025 in a narrow decision this past week after 735 rounds of voting, which began in November 2024. The council voted 5-4 to elect incumbent President Label Lewis, with the decisive vote coming from recently elected 3rd Ward Councilwoman LaShawn Johnson. The council was previously deadlocked over the selection. Read the full story here. Congresswoman calls for EPA to pay now for failed oversight during Flint water crisis U.S. Rep. Kristen McDonald Rivet is calling on the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to begin negotiating a settlement with Flint residents impacted by the citys water crisis. Rivet also wants the agency to acknowledge its failed oversight during the crisis. A U.S. District Court Judge recently denied the EPAs latest request to dismiss Flint water crisis lawsuits filed against the agency by Flint residents. Read the full story here. New $2.6M Mundy Township Senior & Enrichment Center to open in October The Mundy Township Senior & Enrichment Center will celebrate the official opening of its new $2.6 million building this coming week with a ribbon cutting ceremony. The new building is located at Mundy Miracle Commons, an outdoor recreation complex. The ribbon cutting will be held at the new building, located at 1286 W. Hill Road, on Friday, Oct. 3. Read the full story here. Know someone making Genesee County a better place? Nominate them for this special recognition The Flint & Genesee Group is accepting nominations for the 11th annual Art of Achievement Awards, which will be held in November. The awards span 17 different categories, from business to hospitality, and are given to local businesses, leaders, and professionals making a difference in the Flint and Genesee County. Nominations must be submitted by Friday, Oct. 3. Read the full story here. Alleged victim says Flint councilman choked and dragged her by the hair during assault The woman Flint City Council member Leon El-Alamin allegedly assaulted in July testified during a preliminary hearing on Sept. 22 that he dragged her by her hair, choked her, and punched her in a Mt. Morris Township home they shared. El-Alamin has been bound over to Genesee Circuit Court and is currently free on bond as he awaits his trial. Read the full story here. How a road rage incident in Grand Blanc Township escalated to gunfire A pretrial hearing for a man accused of shooting at a driver during a road-rage incident that occurred in Grand Blanc Township earlier this year is set to take place next month. 20-year-old Ter-Ray Pendelton is accused of firing multiple shots at the alleged victim, Keef Dougherty, and faces several charges stemming from the incident, including assault with intent to murder. Read the full story here. Deer population in this Michigan city prompts officials to seek control measures From sterilization to controlled hunts, city officials in Linden are considering several possible solutions to recent issues involving the citys deer population. The Linden City Council discussed the matter during a meeting earlier this month, with multiple council members identifying the issue as a potential threat to public safety. The city has also received reports from residents about close encounters with deer. Read the full story here. Love reading the news and stories you find on MLive? Heres an opportunity to see even more. Google has rolled out a new feature, preferred sources, that gives users the ability to customize their experience to see more of the sites you love within the search engines Top Stories feature. To select MLive.com as a preferred source, simply click here and check the box next to MLive.com. Flint health, treatment officials say gas station opioid is creating new wave of addicts GENESEE COUNTY, MI -- Flint health and drug rehabilitation officials say they are treating a growing number of patients using what they call a gas station opioid -- a highly concentrated byproduct of kratom thats being sold at convenience stores and smoke shops throughout Genesee County. While 7-Hydroxymitragynine occurs naturally in trace amounts of kratom -- pills, energy drinks and candy being sold as 7-OH are super-concentrated and can be more potent than opioids like morphine. People think its benign, something that gives them a little pick-me-up ... a low-grade stimulant like caffeine, said Dr. Dominic Borgialli, an emergency room physician at Hurley Medical Center. People become tolerant of it, and they need it. They cant stop using it, Borgialli said. If they stop using it, they (start having) withdrawal, and the withdrawal is essentially similar to (quitting) heroin or any other opioid. In late July, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration recommended the Drug Enforcement Administration classify 7-OH as a schedule I controlled substance and in Florida last month, the states attorney general enacted an emergency rule, putting 7-OH on that states schedule I list of drugs that have a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical use. 7-OH functions like an opioid, its addictive like an opioid, and without any real regulation, its the new bestseller at local vape shops, said New Paths Behavioral and Recovery Center Executive Director James Hudgens. It endangers our clients in recovery and anyone who might not know what theyre buying. Hudgens last month asked Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel to initiate emergency classification of 7-OH as a schedule I controlled substance under Michigan law, effectively taking it off store shelves. While there is limited data available, it is believed that 7-OH poses reduced risks of fatal overdose compared to drugs like fentanyl, Hudgens wrote in an Aug. 29 letter to Nessel. However, those who become dependent on 7-OH face unpleasant withdrawal symptoms. Borgialli said users come to the emergency room suffering from paranoia, detachment from reality, as well as confusion. Some come looking for help because they are experiencing withdrawal symptoms and cant afford to maintain the doses they need because their tolerance continues to increase. People can hallucinate (or) become very agitated to a point where its hard to tell if its a mental health crisis or a drug reaction, he said. Its a drug thats potentially dangerous. It has some major side effects, (but) there is treatment for it. During an overdose, naloxone can be used as a reversal agent, the doctor said. Danny Wimmer, press secretary for Nessel, said the attorney general is aware of concerns about 7-OH and other synthetic opioid products. But unlike Florida officials, she doesnt have emergency rulemaking powers that would allow her to schedule a substance, Wimmer said in an email to MLive-The Flint Journal. I am presently unaware of any provision under Michigan law that empowers the attorney general to issue an emergency rule scheduling a substance ..., his statement reads. Wimmer said the state Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs/Board of Pharmacy is generally involved in the classification of drugs in Michigan. Hudgens said the lack of regulation around kratom and 7-OH leaves buyers in the dark about how concentrated the product they are taking is. Estimates are that 7-OH can be 30 times as potent as the kratom thats commonly sold in small bottles at convenience and other stores, Borgialli said. According to the DEA, kratom leaves contain two major psychoactive ingredients --mitragynine and 7-hydroxymytragynine. The kratom leaves come from a tree native to Southeast Asia and are crushed and then smoked, brewed with tea, placed into gel capsules, or made into liquid. A kratom energy drink Hudgens purchased included .01 milligrams of mitragynine, while a pill form of 7-OH purchased in Genesee County was listed as having 15 milligrams of the same active ingredient. The problem you have is theres no legal dose, Hudgens said. It really is the wild, wild West with this. Theres no laws out there. 7-OH products are gaining popularity, Hudgens said, even as the state has made progress in combating the opioid epidemic. The New Paths director said overdose deaths in the state declined by nearly 9% from 2021 to 2023 and provisional data projects a 34% decline between 2023 and 2024. The state cannot afford to see this trend reversed again, his letter to Nessel reads. (Information from the Associated Press is included in this report.) Scenes from reunification area at the Trillium Theater in Grand Blanc on Sunday, Sept. 28, 2025. An active shooter and fire was reported at the The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 4285 McCandlish Road in Grand Blanc. Lukas Katilius | MLive.com GRAND BLANC, MI Words of support and some calls for action have been rolling in from across Michigan and the country in the wake of a church shooting in Grand Blanc Sunday. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and President Donald Trump were among the earlier public figures to lend thoughts to the shooting, which injured eight victims and killed at least two others before the 40-year-old suspect was killed in an exchange of gunfire with police at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 4285 McCandlish Road. Whitmer called the attack unacceptable, adding her heart is breaking for the community, while Trump called for an end to what he called an epidemic of violence in the U.S. The national LDS organization also quickly issued a statement from church spokesperson Doug Andersen. We offer thanks to the emergency responders who are assisting victims and families, he said. We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of prayers and concern from so many people around the world. In moments of sorrow and uncertainty, we find strength and comfort through our faith in Jesus Christ. Places of worship are meant to be sanctuaries of peacemaking, prayer and connection. We pray for peace and healing for all involved. Other comments from political leaders and public figures similarly call for peace, express gratitude for first responders and condemn violence in places of worship. In reference to the shooting, FBI Director Kash Patel wrote on X, Violence in a place of worship is a cowardly and criminal act. U.S. Rep. Kristen McDonald Rivet, D-Bay City, whose 8th Congressional District includes Grand Blanc, said she was beyond devastated by the shooting at the LDS church. (My husband) Joseph and I are praying for the victims and the entire Grand Blanc community, she said. This kind of violence in a place of worship is despicable. Scenes from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 4285 McCandlish Road, in Grand Blanc on Sunday, Sept. 28, 2025. An active shooter and fire was reported at the church. Lukas Katilius | MLive.com Like Whitmer, Mallory McMorrow, a Democratic state senator and candidate for U.S. Senate, wrote her heart breaks for Grand Blanc churchgoers in a brief post on Bluesky she referred solemnly to the incident as another shooting. Former congresswoman Gabby Giffords recalled the deaths of children during the school mass at Annunciation Catholic Church less than a month ago in Minneapolis. Families deserve safety wherever they are, but being targeted while practicing ones faith is especially horrific, said Giffords, a gun violence prevention advocate and a victim of gun violence after she was shot in the head during a January 2011 event in Tucson, Arizona. Although we are still waiting for details on the circumstances of this shooting, we know that more can be done to save lives and prevent targeted violence, she said. Our leaders, on both sides of the aisle, must act now, before yet another community is altered forever by a horrific mass shooting. State Sen. John Cherry, D-Flint, said places of worship should be where peoples hopes are highest and their faith strongest, calling Sundays shooting particularly sickening. The congregation, the people of Grand Blanc, and our Genesee County community as a whole will need to heal and rebuild emotionally and physically, he said. And I hope we can all come together to support them and one another during these trying and terrifying times. State Rep. David Martin, a Genesee County Republican, was leaving his own church services Sunday when he heard about the LDS church attack. The peace and safety associated with worship, he said in a statement, were stolen from them today in the most horrific and evil way. GRAND BLANC TWP., MI An active shooter was reported at a church Sunday morning, Sept. 28, in Grand Blanc Township, police said. The incident happened at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 4285 McCandlish Road, according to the Grand Blanc Township Police Department. Read updates posted as the incident unfolded: Monday, Sept. 29 2:21 p.m. Investigators are still searching through the fire debris for any possible additional victims, police said in a recap posted this afternoon following a news conference. Police indicated there will be no more press conferences. Hospitals treated multiple smoke inhalation victims, including first responders, and all have been reported as stable and/or released, police said. 12:30 p.m.: Gov. Gretchen Whitmer spoke at a news conference along with police and federal officials this afternoon. The state of Michigan has your back, Whitmer said, addressing people in Grand Blanc. Your grief is our grief. Watch a video of the news conference, streamed live online. Everyone has been accounted for, Grand Blanc Township police Chief William Renye said at the news conference. The shooting was an act of evil, Renye said. Officials urged citizens to avoid the area to allow investigators to work. Whitmer said the motivation of the attack is still being investigated, cautioning people about the dangers of speculating about why without facts. She asked people to lower the temperature of rhetoric. Grand Blanc Township Police Chief William Renye speaks during a press conference in Grand Blanc, Mich. on Monday, Sept. 29, 2025. After this update about the incident at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 4285 McCandlish Road, in Grand Blanc on Sunday, Sept. 28, 2025., it was announced that there are five fatalities, including the suspect, and eight injured. Kaytie Boomer | MLive.com 12:15 p.m.: See a timeline of the deadly mass shooting as it unfolded in a matter of minutes. Read an account from a resident who heard gunfire amidst the chaos. Ive just been praying a lot, another resident said. 11:48 a.m.: Thomas Jacob Sanford, the man police identified as the gunman, made anti-Mormon comments in the days before the shooting, according to a man who met him while campaigning for local office. Burton City Council candidate Kris Johns said he met Sanford while while campaigning door to door on East Atherton Road near Center Road on Sept. 22. Johns said Sanford repeatedly told him the Mormons are the anti-Christ. The Michigan State Police and the FBI have interviewed Johns about the encounter, he said. 11:15 a.m.: The Uvalde Foundation For Kids announced its intent to recognize the swift and heroic actions of law enforcement officials responding to the violent act. The speed and bravery demonstrated by law enforcement in Grand Blanc is a critical example of courage under fire, Founder Daniel Chapin said. The decisive, rapid response we witnessed in Michigan made the ultimate difference in saving lives. He compared it to the delayed response at the Robb Elementary School tragedy in Uvalde, Texas, in May 2022. The response in Grand Blanc stands in stark contrast to the slow response in Uvalde that led to catastrophic loss, he said. 10:51 a.m.: Authorities have announced plans for a press conference at the Grand Blanc Township Police Department at 12:30 p.m. Federal and local agencies will provide updates to the media, police said. 6:57 a.m.: Investigators continue to sift through the rubble after the deadly mass shooting and fire. Grand Blanc Township police Chief William Renye noted acts of heroism, like people shielding children from danger as the incident unfolded. On Sunday, Sept. 28: 9:41 p.m.: A crowd of more than 100 people gathered in the football field outside of a church in Burton for a vigil tonight. The vigil was held by the Genesee County Republican Party at Holy Redeemer Church, located at 1227 E. Bristol Road. The vigil was scheduled to take place prior to the shooting as it was initially intended to serve as a vigil for conservative activist Charlie Kirk, who was shot and killed on Sept. 10. In addition to hearing from speakers, vigil attendees prayed, lit candles, and listened to Christian music. 9:31 p.m.: Gov. Gretchen Whitmer ordered flags on all public buildings and grounds across the State of Michigan to be lowered to half-staff immediately to honor the victims of the shooting. Flags should be lowered through Friday, Oct. 3, 2025, Whitmer said. 8:08 p.m.: Other churches throughout the Grand Blanc area have received bomb threats and are under investigation, Kim Vetter, Michigan State Police lieutenant, said at a press conference. 8:07 p.m.: The FBI has taken over the shooting investigation, Reuben Coleman, FBI special agent in charge, said at a press conference. The shooting is being investigated as an act of targeted violence. 8:05 p.m.: Police announced two bodies were found at the church who had been trapped by the fire set by the shooter. 7:36 p.m.: Local authorities said the FBI was sending 100 agents to Grand Blanc Township, a community of roughly 40,000 people outside Flint. President Donald Trump said in a social media post that he was briefed on the shooting and applauded the FBI for its response. PRAY for the victims, and their families. THIS EPIDEMIC OF VIOLENCE IN OUR COUNTRY MUST END, IMMEDIATELY! Trump wrote. 6 p.m.: The first man killed in a Sunday morning shooting at a Latter-Day Saints church in Grand Blanc was very soft spoken and very kind hearted, a leader in the church. MLive is not naming the man because police have not confirmed his identity and its not yet clear that all of his family members have been informed of his death. But he, too, was a former bishop, which in Mormon churches is a position akin to pastor. Meanwhile, an MSP bomb squad armored skid steer arrived at the scene near the intersection of Atherton and Center roads. Police blocked off the road beginning in the 4100 block of East Atherton Road. Police warned of the possibility of an explosion, but they noted that it would be unlikely. The home is that of the man identified as the suspect in the church shooting. 5 p.m.: Police have identified the man accused of shooting 10 people, killing two of them, as Thomas Jacob Sanford. Of the eight other victims, one is in critical condition, according to police. Another update will be provided by police at 8 p.m. 4:50 p.m.: A conservation officer acted without hesitation the moment he engaged with a gunman during a church service, an attorney for law enforcement said. Authorities said two officers one from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and one from Grand Blanc Township responded to the incident and engaged with the suspect in an exchange of gunfire. The Burton man, who has not been identified, died in a shootout. A vehicle that was rammed into the building is surrounded by smoke as a firefighter works on the scene at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc, Mich., Sunday, Sept. 28, 2025. (Lukas Katilius/The Flint Journal via AP) AP 4:47 p.m.: She was reminding her son to be ready for lacrosse and putting together a crockpot dinner when she saw the smoke start to rise outside her kitchen window Sunday morning. Across McCandlish Road, the neighbor -- who asked not to be identified -- could see the fallout from the shooting and fire at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. We could see it. We could smell it ... It was unbelievable, the neighbor said. You put on your mom face and try to put the pieces back together. 4:15 p.m.: Words of support and some calls for action have been rolling in from across Michigan and the country in the wake of a church shooting in Grand Blanc Sunday. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and President Donald Trump were among the earlier public figures to lend thoughts to the shooting, which injured eight victims and killed at least two others before the 40-year-old suspect was killed in an exchange of gunfire with police at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 4285 McCandlish Road. The national LDS organization also quickly issued a statement from church spokesperson Doug Andersen. 4:12 p.m.: Grand Blanc Community Schools announced that the district would be closed on Monday, Sept. 29, in the wake of the shooting at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Police officials said counselors will be available for community members from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. throughout the week at the Grand Blanc Township police department. We know that youre hurting right now, Grand Blanc Township Police Chief William Renye said in a social media video. 3:26 p.m.: Police confirmed multiple agencies are searching the home of the shooting suspect. Officers from the Michigan State Police, Burton Police Department and Grand Blanc Township police department are among those at a home near the intersection of Atherton and Center roads in Burton, where the 40-year-old man suspected in a shooting at a Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc Township lived. Two people were killed and eight others injured after the man opened fire inside the church after driving a truck into the building and setting it on fire. The suspect died after a shootout with police. 3:13 p.m.: About two dozen family members waited anxiously Sunday afternoon to be reunited with those involved in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints shooting. The reunification site was set up at Trillium NGC Cinemas, 8220 Trillium Circle Avenue, less than a half-mile from the church. People have come by to drop off water and food for the affected families, who could be seen hugging and showing emotions in the parking lot. 3:11 p.m.: A second person has died following a shooting Sunday, Sept. 28, at Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 4285 McCandlish Road. In an update provided via social media Sunday afternoon, Grand Blanc Township Police Chief Wiliam Renye said a second person died at a local hospital after being shot earlier in the day at the church. 2:45 p.m.: What we know so far: Ten people were shot, including one fatally, at a church in Grand Blanc Township early Sunday after a 40-year-old Burton man who rammed his vehicle into the building before shooting began inside. The suspect was fatally shot after exchanging gunfire with Grand Blanc Township police. Heres what we know so far. 2:24 p.m.: Local police officials are expected to provide an update on the shooting at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson will join Grand Blanc Township Police Chief Bill Renye at the church for a 5 p.m. joint news conference. 1:56 p.m.: Hundreds were in attendance when chaos unfolded at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc when a man rammed his vehicle through a church and began shooting at those inside. The suspect, a 40-year-old Burton man, was fatally shot after exchanging gunfire with Grand Blanc Township police. A motive has not been determined. Emergency crews respond to a shooting and fire at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, in Grand Blanc, Mich., Sept. 28, 2025. (David Guralnick/Detroit News via AP) AP 1:46 p.m.: Police officials said they expect to find more victims once they secure the scene where nine people were wounded and one killed when a 40-year-old gunman opened fire at a Michigan church Sunday, Sept. 28. We do believe that we will find additional victims once we have that scene secure, Grand Blanc Township Police Chief William Renye said during a news conference Sunday afternoon. 1:21 p.m.: Ten people were shot at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 4285 McCandlish Road, Grand Blanc Township police said Sunday. One of them died, while two others are in critical condition. In addition to those shooting victims, the suspected gunman is also dead, police said. 1:08 p.m.: President Donald Trump said hes been briefed on the shooting at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc in a post on his social network platfrom Truth Social. Calling the incident horrendous, Trump cautioned the FBI was immediately on scene to lead the federal investigation and provide support to state and local officials. FBI Deputy Director Dan Bongino and the agencys Detroit Field Office also posted FBI personnel were responding to Grand Blanc in separate posts on X, formerly known as Twitter. The suspect is dead, but there is still a lot to learn, Trump wrote. This appears to be yet another targeted attack on Christians in the United States of America. Trump vowed to keep the public informed and encouraged they pray for victims and their families. 1:02 p.m.: Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said violence anywhere is unaccepted hours after a gunman opened fire Sunday at a church. My heart is breaking for the Grand Blanc community, Whitmer wrote in a post on X. 12:56 p.m.: Members of the Michigan State Police bomb squad have arrived at the scene of the Michigan church where several people have reportedly been shot. 12:49 p.m.: Police are expected to release more details regarding a shooting at a church that left multiple victims. Grand Blanc Township police will hold a press conference at 1 p.m. at police headquarters. 12:20 p.m.: A gunman who opened fire at a church Sunday morning is down and the entire building is on fire, according to Genesee Countys top law enforcement officer. There is no threat to the public, however, residents are advised to avoid the area. A reunification site has been established for individuals on site, at the pavilion to the north of the church. Offsite reunification will be at Trillium movie theater at 8220 Trillium Circle Ave., according to police. This story will be updated as more information becomes available. GRAND BLANC TWP., MI Members of the Michigan State Police bomb squad have arrived at the scene of the Michigan church where several people have reportedly been shot. An active shooter was reported at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 4285 McCandlish Road, in Grand Blanc, Sunday, Sept. 28. Police say there are multiple victims, though an exact figure has yet to be released. The gunman who opened fire is down and the entire building is on fire, according to the Genesee County Sheriff. The MSP bomb squad arrived shortly after 12:30 p.m. The sheriff had previously said the scene was no longer a threat to the public, but urged people to avoid the area and continued to evacuate civilians from the area. A juvenile Nile crocodile contained in a tote by Hampton Township police officers the afternoon of Sept. 23, 2025. Cole Waterman BAY CITY, MI A Nile crocodile was captured while sunbathing in a Bay County womans yard. Meanwhile, the ex-State Theatre director admitted guilt in a scheme that bankrupted the historic venue. Those stories and more are included below in this weeks roundup of Bay County stories you may have missed. Nile crocodile captured sunbathing in Michigan womans yard Police arrested an unusual trespasser they caught lazily sunbathing in a mid-Michigan yard. Thankfully, the four-legged, scale-covered encroacher didnt resist by biting the officers with its extended jaws or try spinning them in one of its species infamous death rolls. The suspect, a juvenile Nile crocodile, is no longer in police custody, having been released to a local zoo. Read the full story here. Ex-State Theatre director admits guilt in scheme that bankrupted Bay City landmark Less than a month after he was charged with a federal crime, the former executive director of Bay Citys historic State Theatre has admitted in court to a felonious misuse of funds. Michael T. Mike Bacigalupo, 63, on the afternoon of Tuesday, Sept. 23, appeared in the courtroom of U.S. District Magistrate Judge Patricia T. Morris, kitty-corner from the State Theatre at 913 Washington Ave. The hearing was Bacigalupos first appearance before a federal judge since prosecutors charged him with wire fraud on Aug. 27. Unusual for an initial appearance, Bacigalupo opted to plead guilty as charged to the lone count he faced, a felony punishable by up to 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and five years of supervised release. Morris asked Bacigalupo directly if he was indeed guilty. Read the full story here. A Bay City neighborhoods Halloween tradition is in limbo over permit, insurance requirements A popular Halloween light display that spans nearly an entire block in Bay City faces a potential shutdown by the city over insurance and permit concerns, disappointing residents who have created what they call a neighborhood tradition. Matt Aikens, who started the elaborate display that has grown to include 10 houses in the 1700 block of Chilson Avenue about five years ago, said he and his neighbors were disappointed to have received notice from the city that they had until Oct. 3 to remove parts of the display or else they could face a nuisance fee of $100 per day. Our complaint is that the city of Bay City is making us take our Halloween lights down that hundreds of kids and families come to see every year, Aikens wrote in a social media post. We received a letter this week stating that we broke an ordinance that has to do with encroachment. Its an ordinance that we didnt even know existed, and weve been doing this for years. Read the full story here. Is the Coolest Thing Made in Michigan from Saginaw or Bay City? Your vote could make it happen. Three locally-made products are among the second-round finalists for the 2025 Coolest Thing Made in Michigan competition. A Handcrafted Rock Fountain Kit from Blue Thumb in Saginaw, 5125 V-Mac Vicor+ from Fullerton Tool Co. in Saginaw, and Pioneer Sugar from Michigan Sugar Co. with locations in Bay City, Caro, Croswell and Sebewaing are each among 10 creations vying to become the final three manufactured products in the competition. The second round of voting began Monday, Sept. 22, and will continue through Oct. 1, allowing residents across the state to select their favorites from 10 diverse nominees that showcase the breadth of Michigans manufacturing sector. Read the full story here. Sentencing date set for former Bay City theater director who admitted to defrauding nonprofits The former executive director of two nonprofit groups in Bay City is due back in court early next year for sentencing after pleading guilty to a 20-year felony Tuesday, Sept. 23, in federal court. Michael Mike Bacigalupo, 63, admitted this week to defrauding a pair of local nonprofits of more than $750,000 and pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud. Federal court records show that Bacigalupo is scheduled to return to the federal courthouse in downtown Bay City on Jan. 29, 2026, for sentencing before District Judge Thomas L. Ludington. Read the full story here. Bay City cybersecurity pro faces more charges related to alleged sexual abuse of minors Over the spring, a Bay City cybersecurity professional was federally indicted on 11 counts related to sex trafficking minors. Hes newly charged on the state level with sexually assaulting a minor himself, acts he allegedly recorded. Lucas G. Pelletier, 21, on Sept. 19 appeared in Bay County District Court for arraignment on three counts of third-degree criminal sexual conduct with a victim between the ages of 13 and 15 and single counts of first-degree criminal sexual conduct and accosting children for immoral purposes. Both degrees involve penetration. First-degree is a life offense, while third-degree is a 15-year felony. According to an affidavit authored by a Michigan State Police investigator, Pelletiers crimes occurred between May 15 and June 30, 2024. A 15-year-old girl, interviewed at the Bay County Child Abuse and Neglect Center, said she met Pelletier online under the name Zack Stell. Read the full story here. Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Jiang Zaidong speaks during a handover ceremony of flood relief supplies donated by the Chinese government in Pakistan's eastern Rawalpindi district, Sept. 28, 2025. The first batch of emergency flood relief supplies donated by the Chinese government arrived in Pakistan on Sunday, according to the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA). (Xinhua/Ahmad Kamal) ISLAMABAD, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- The first batch of emergency flood relief supplies donated by the Chinese government arrived in Pakistan on Sunday, according to the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA). Two Chinese relief flights carrying 300 tents and 9,000 blankets landed in Pakistan's eastern Rawalpindi district, reflecting China's enduring solidarity with Pakistan in times of difficulty, said the NDMA. Speaking on the occasion, Pakistan's Minister for Kashmir Affairs and Gilgit-Baltistan & SAFRON, Amir Muqam expressed deep gratitude to the government and people of China for their prompt support, saying that the assistance will bring much needed relief to thousands of flood-affected families. Since June of this year, heavy rains have caused floods and other disasters across Pakistan, resulting in hundreds of casualties and extensive damage to infrastructure, houses, and crops, he said, adding that the donated supplies from China will play a significant role in the relief efforts. Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Jiang Zaidong said that the assistance provided by China vividly embodies the spirit of a community with a shared future, standing together through thick and thin. He said that under the leadership of the Pakistani government and with the support of all sectors of society, the people in the disaster-stricken areas will be able to overcome the impact of the floods and rebuild their homes. Flood relief supplies donated by the Chinese government are pictured in Pakistan's eastern Rawalpindi district, Sept. 28, 2025. The first batch of emergency flood relief supplies donated by the Chinese government arrived in Pakistan on Sunday, according to the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA). (Xinhua/Ahmad Kamal) Flood relief supplies donated by the Chinese government are pictured in Pakistan's eastern Rawalpindi district, Sept. 28, 2025. The first batch of emergency flood relief supplies donated by the Chinese government arrived in Pakistan on Sunday, according to the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA). (Xinhua/Ahmad Kamal) Flood relief supplies donated by the Chinese government are pictured in Pakistan's eastern Rawalpindi district, Sept. 28, 2025. The first batch of emergency flood relief supplies donated by the Chinese government arrived in Pakistan on Sunday, according to the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA). (Xinhua/Ahmad Kamal) A worker transfers flood relief supplies donated by the Chinese government in Pakistan's eastern Rawalpindi district, Sept. 28, 2025. The first batch of emergency flood relief supplies donated by the Chinese government arrived in Pakistan on Sunday, according to the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA). (Xinhua/Ahmad Kamal) A worker unloads flood relief supplies donated by the Chinese government in Pakistan's eastern Rawalpindi district, Sept. 28, 2025. The first batch of emergency flood relief supplies donated by the Chinese government arrived in Pakistan on Sunday, according to the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA). (Xinhua/Ahmad Kamal) Flood relief supplies donated by the Chinese government are pictured in Pakistan's eastern Rawalpindi district, Sept. 28, 2025. The first batch of emergency flood relief supplies donated by the Chinese government arrived in Pakistan on Sunday, according to the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA). (Xinhua/Ahmad Kamal) Gayatri Rani USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Alia Bhatt wishes her "whole and soul" Ranbir Kapoor on his 43rd birthday; daughter Raha makes adorable card: See pics Alia Bhatt took to Instagram and shared a series of photos to wish Ranbir on his birthday. M Snehanjali USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Palak Vij USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. 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I Accept Vivek Oberoi recalls losing his childhood sweetheart to cancer at 18: 'We had thought about getting married' Gayatri Rani USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Chinese scientists propose excess 40Ar in lunar soil possibly from Earth wind Xinhua) 14:18, September 28, 2025 LANZHOU, Sept. 27 (Xinhua) -- Chinese scientists have newly proposed that surplus 40Ar in lunar soil possibly originates from the Earth wind, according to the Northwest Institute of Eco-environment and Resources (NIEER) under the Chinese Academy of Sciences. Conducted by researchers at the NIEER, this latest study offers a new perspective for understanding volatile exchanges within the Earth-Moon system. The study results have been published in the journal Icarus, said the NIEER. Ar, the chemical element argon, is a pivotal noble gas present within lunar soil. It contains vital information crucial for deciphering the Moon's internal architecture and surface evolution processes, as well as the material exchange processes occurring between the Earth and the Moon, said Li Liwu, a researcher at the NIEER. "Analysis of the isotopic composition of Ar in lunar soil can provide new clues for understanding multiple key issues regarding the Moon and the Earth-Moon system," Li said. Li also noted that, alongside advancement of lunar exploration in recent years, excess 40Ar in lunar soil remains a significant topic in planetary science, drawing the attention of the scientific community. Lunar soil samples collected by China's Chang'e-5 mission provide an opportunity for scientists to tackle this issue. Researchers with the Oil and Gas Research Center of the NIEER have conducted stepwise heating and degassing analyses of noble gas isotopes in Chang'e-5 lunar soil samples. They further conducted fine analysis of the argon isotope composition within these lunar soil samples. The study results revealed the presence of two types of 40Ar -- one unrelated to 36Ar, likely originating from in situ 40K which decays into 40Ar in the soils, and the other correlated with 36Ar -- which may primarily derive from the Earth wind. The study proposes that the excess 40Ar in lunar soil could primarily originate from continuous escape from Earth's atmosphere -- with it injected onto the lunar surface via both the inner and outer regions of Earth's magnetosphere. The findings of this new study provide an innovative framework for understanding the atmospheric escape process of terrestrial planets and their impact on neighboring celestial bodies, Li noted. He added that the study also offers a new perspective for analysis of samples from the far side of the Moon as provided by the Chang'e-6 mission, and for the analysis of lunar soil retrieved by subsequent exploration projects. The outcomes of this study are expected to help further verify the spatial influence range of the Earth wind. The Chang'e-5 probe, which returned to Earth on Dec. 17, 2020, retrieved 1,731 grams of lunar samples, consisting primarily of rocks and soil from the lunar surface. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) HELSINKI, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- After a virtual meeting with several EU defense ministers, the European Commission on Friday voiced its support for developing a "drone wall" along the bloc's eastern borders to strengthen Europe's defense capabilities, following a series of unidentified drone incursions. EU Defense Commissioner Andrius Kubilius stated that participants agreed the drone wall should feature "advanced detection, tracking, and interception capabilities." It will form the core of the "Eastern Flank Watch", a defense initiative that also includes "ground defenses such as anti-mobility systems, maritime security for the Baltic and Black Seas, and space-based situational awareness". "The Eastern Flank Watch, with the 'Drone Wall' as its core, will serve all of Europe," said Kubilius in Helsinki after the meeting. "We agreed to move from concept to concrete actions." The concept of a "drone wall" was first proposed by Lithuania in 2023. By May 2024, six NATO countries had agreed to join forces on the project. In March of this year, an Estonian-Lithuanian proposal to build a cross-border drone wall failed to secure funding from the European Commission. This month, the European Commission shifted its stance following a series of unidentified drone incursions into EU airspace. On Sept. 9-10, drones were detected entering Polish airspace 19 times, identified by Poland and NATO as Russian. Three days later, Romania reported a Russian drone breaching its airspace. This week, unidentified drones were spotted across Scandinavian countries, leading to the temporary closure of airspace over several airports, both civilian and military. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen admitted that the origin of these drones had not yet been identified, but hinted that the Kremlin might be responsible. Russia denied all accusations of deliberate drone incursions. The Russian Defense Ministry stated that it was ready to hold consultations with Poland on the drone incident, but Poland refused, saying it was "not ready." Russia's Embassy in Bucharest pointed out that no evidence had been presented linking the alleged drones to any specific country, dismissing Romania's protest as "baseless and contrived." On Tuesday, Kubilius told Euractiv that Europe lacks the capabilities to detect drones and needs to learn from Ukraine's military, which he praised on Friday for having "invaluable, battle-tested expertise." In early September, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, in her State of the Union speech, advocated for Europe to respond to the call of Baltic countries to build the "drone wall" and pledged 6 billion euros (about 7.3 billion dollars) for a Drone Alliance with Ukraine. At Friday's meeting, the EU defense chief outlined the Commission's next steps: to "define a detailed technical roadmap with national experts", "mobilize Europe's defense industry", and "build a comprehensive EU financial toolbox to make this shield a reality." The virtual meeting hosted by the EU Defense Commissioner gathered the EU's top diplomat Kaja Kallas and defense ministers from Bulgaria, Estonia, Finland, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland and Romania. Denmark, Hungary and Slovakia also participated. A separate session later in the day was joined by Ukraine's minister of defense, with NATO participating as an observer. "Russia is testing the EU and NATO. And our response must be firm, united, and immediate," Kubilius told a press conference on Friday. In response, the chief of the Department of European Issues at the Russian Foreign Ministry criticized the "drone wall" plan as "hysteria" and viewed it as a pretext for EU members to justify increasing military spending, Sputnik reported on Saturday. Copenhagen will host an informal EU leaders' meeting next week and the "drone wall" could be on the agenda. According to Politico, von der Leyen is expected to propose funding options for the project during the meeting. A heartwarming video is currently doing rounds on social media featuring Shah Rukh and Treesha posing together. M Snehanjali USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. 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I Accept South India accounts for 58% of all-India whiskey sales in FY25; Karnataka leads chart with 17% share Five Southern states - Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Telangana, along with Union Territory Puducherry, have retained their dominance in the sales of the Indian-Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL), consuming 23.18 crore cases (jointly contributing 58 per cent sales) for the financial year ended on March 31, 2025. 101Reporters USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. 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I Accept Importantly, there has been no operational disruption, and the US manufacturing operations and customer deliveries continue as planned. Aishwarya Dabhade USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. 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I Accept Actor Vijay announces Rs 20 lakh aid for kin of those killed in Karur stampede Sonalee Borgohain USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Against the odds, Mukhi becomes first cheetah cub born in India to reach adulthood Born in 2023, Mukhi survives against the odds as Kunos cheetah reintroduction effort turns a corner. Aishwarya Dabhade USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept BJP did much better in BTC polls when Sonowal was Assam CM, its tally went down under Himanta: Gaurav Gogoi Sonalee Borgohain USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Visitors view an exhibit car of M-HERO under Chinese automaker Dongfeng during the 2025 Turin Auto Show in Turin, Italy, Sept. 26, 2025. (Xinhua/Li Jing) Seventeen Chinese automakers brought new models to Turin this year - about one-third of all exhibitors - Levy noted that BYD, Denza, Dongfeng and JAC were among them, with several brands making their Italian debut. TURIN, Italy, Sept. 27 (Xinhua) -- China's automobile manufacturers are rapidly becoming an important driving force in Europe's auto industry, bringing fresh design ideas, competitive electric-vehicle technology and growing market presence to the continent, Andrea Levy, president of Turin Auto Show, told Xinhua in a recent interview. Held across open city blocks in the northern Italian city, the 2025 Turin Auto Show blends Italy's long-standing design tradition with an increasingly international exhibitor list. This year the show unveiled the Turin Automotive Design Award for the first time, a professional prize established with European official backing to promote cooperation between Chinese and European automakers. A visitor looks at an exhibit car of JAC E30X during the 2025 Turin Auto Show in Turin, Italy, Sept. 26, 2025. (Xinhua/Li Jing) An independent international jury made up of nine leading Italian automotive design and R&D institutes selected winners that included Chinese marques such as Changan, JAC, Geely and Jetour, Levy said, praising the awards as recognition of China's rising design capabilities and a step toward closer Sino-Italian industrial ties. Seventeen Chinese automakers brought new models to Turin this year - about one-third of all exhibitors - Levy noted that BYD, Denza, Dongfeng and JAC were among them, with several brands making their Italian debut. "For example, BYD presented its premium Denza brand, Dongfeng launched a new sub-brand, and Zeekr exhibited its models," he said, noting that Chinese high-performance electric models - like the Zeekr 001 FR with its 800-horsepower output - have showcased the technical capabilities of these brands to Italian audiences. The show is expected to attract some 500,000 visitors, Levy added. "Taking part in international motor shows is very important for Chinese brands. Many European consumers have been unfamiliar with Chinese cars, but here they can see the design and technical strength with their own eyes." Representatives of Changan Deepal S07 receive the Best Exterior Design award of the Turin Automotive Design Award (TADA) during the 2025 Turin Auto Show in Turin, Italy, Sept. 26, 2025. (Xinhua/Li Jing) Levy believes Chinese manufacturers are well positioned to accelerate Europe's shift from internal-combustion engines to electrification. He said that Italy's adoption of pure electric vehicles has lagged behind other European countries. He estimated EVs make up roughly 5 percent of Italy's market, compared with more than 10 percent in Germany and France and over 50 percent in Norway, and said that China's combination of advanced battery and charging technologies, plus attractive pricing, gives Chinese automakers significant potential. "Chinese cars are technologically advanced, support very fast charging and are competitively priced," Levy said. "Some Chinese models already support ultra-fast 400-kilowatt charging, allowing a recharge in about 15 minutes - an experience that is new for many Italian consumers." He argued that such strengths will help European buyers transition from fuel vehicles to electric models more quickly. Visitors pass by an exhibit car of Changan Deepal S05 during the 2025 Turin Auto Show in Turin, Italy, Sept. 26, 2025. (Xinhua/Li Jing) On how Chinese manufacturers can deepen their presence in Europe, Levy emphasized visibility and hands-on experience. "European consumers tend to have long-standing trust in traditional local brands. Chinese marques lack that historical familiarity. But if consumers can test-drive these cars and the media cover them, perceptions will change - because the cars perform well, are well designed and are reasonably priced." Levy also highlighted the natural complementarity between the two countries. Italy's global renown in car design - the home of masters such as Pininfarina and Giorgetto Giugiaro - and its logistics networks offer entry points for Chinese manufacturers. "Many Chinese firms have already set up design centers in Turin to develop global models; Changan is one example," he said. "Italy is not only a design hub in Europe, it is also an important gateway. Vehicles arriving through Italian ports can be distributed across Europe, and Italian logistics companies can help build a continent-wide sales network." Visitors view exhibit cars of Chinese automaker Dongfeng during the 2025 Turin Auto Show in Turin, Italy, Sept. 26, 2025. (Xinhua/Li Jing) Describing cooperation as mutually beneficial, Levy said Italy's expertise in high-performance vehicle design can be coupled with China's extensive experience in batteries and electrification. "Such cooperation can teach Italy more about electric-vehicle technology while helping Chinese automakers establish themselves in Europe," he said. Looking ahead, the Turin Auto Show plans to go beyond vehicle displays and to build concrete industry linkages. "In 2026 we plan to create a dedicated section within the show to facilitate China-Italy and broader China-Europe automotive cooperation, providing matchmaking opportunities and helping firms establish new commercial contacts," Levy said. Visitors view exhibit cars during the 2025 Turin Auto Show in Turin, Italy, Sept. 26, 2025. (Xinhua/Li Jing) Concluding the interview, Levy expressed admiration for the pace and scale of China's auto industry development. "Chinese cars are not only technologically advanced and attractively designed, they are becoming an integral part of the global automotive industry. The Turin Auto Show is willing to act as an important bridge for Chinese brands entering Europe, he said. "We welcome more Chinese automakers to exhibit." Tamal Nandi USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Centre committed to extending all possible support to boost J&K's industrial growth: LG Sinha Centre committed to extending all possible support to boost J&K's industrial growth: LG Sinha Yeeshu Yadav USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. 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For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Yeeshu Yadav USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept 101Reporters USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Home Minister Amit Shah assures help as at least 36 die in Karur stampede at Vijays rally In its communication to the Tamil Nadu government, the home ministry asked it to provide details about the situation leading to the stampede and what steps have been taken for the rescue and treatment of the victims, sources told news agency ANI. Rewati Karan USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Armaan Bhatnagar is a news editor with nearly 14 years of experience in digital media across leading organisations including The Times of India, Microsoft, and Network18. Over the years, Armaan has reported extensively on Indian politics, global affairs, economy, and business. He has led coverage of landmark events ranging from three Lok Sabha elections and multiple state polls to historic Supreme Court judgments. He has closely followed geopolitical developments across US and Pakistan, the Middle East, as well as South Asia. He has also helped build innovative newsroom products, including COVID dashboards, election trackers, economy meters, and a range of data-driven properties. Armaan Bhatnagar USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Jaishankar slams Pakistan at UNGA, pushes UNSC reform and global action on terrorism: Here are the key quotes Aishwarya Dabhade USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept KIEV/MOSCOW, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- At least four people were killed and 40 others injured in a massive Russian drone and missile attack on Ukraine that lasted more than 12 hours, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Sunday. The assault involved nearly 500 combat drones and over 40 missiles, including Kinzhal hypersonic missiles, Zelensky said in a statement. The main targets included Kiev and its surrounding areas, the southern Zaporizhzhia region and the western Khmelnytsky region. Civilian infrastructure facilities were heavily affected across Ukraine, with strikes damaging a bread production enterprise, an automotive rubber factory and residential buildings, Zelensky added. Tymur Tkachenko, head of the Kiev City Military Administration, said three adults and a 12-year-old girl were killed in Kiev, and about 10 people were injured. More than 15 locations were damaged in the capital, including a cardiological institute, a kindergarten and residential buildings. Meanwhile, the Russian Ministry of Defense said that its air defense systems intercepted and destroyed 53 Ukrainian drones in multiple regions overnight and Sunday morning. The ministry also reported that its forces shot down six guided aerial bombs, six U.S.-made HIMARS multiple launch rocket system projectiles and one Czech-made Vampire rocket on Saturday. Mann Ki Baat: Spirit of selfless service, discipline are true strengths of RSS, says PM Modi Siddharth Chakravorty USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Amit Shah rejects Maoist ceasefire offer, says extremists must surrender without conditions. Promises red carpet rehab and declares India will be Naxal-free by 2026. Aishwarya Dabhade USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. 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For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Three Naxalites gunned down in encounter with security forces in Chhattisgarh Three Naxalites gunned down in encounter with security forces in Chhattisgarh Yeeshu Yadav USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept OSLO, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- Denmark will prohibit all civilian drone flights nationwide from Monday to Friday to safeguard a European Union (EU) leaders' meeting in Copenhagen and reduce the burden on police amid a surge in suspicious drone sightings, the Danish government said Sunday. The temporary ban will run from Sept. 29 to Oct. 3 and is intended to prevent confusion between legal flights and potential hostile activity while authorities focus on summit security, Transport Minister Thomas Danielsen said in a statement. Exemptions may be granted only for urgent tasks of public importance. Ordinary commercial or recreational flights, such as aerial photography for private events, will not be permitted. Military, police and other emergency services are exempt. Violations can be punished by fines or up to two years' imprisonment, according to Danish authorities. The restrictions come as EU heads of state or government convene in Copenhagen on Oct. 1 for an informal meeting focused on European defense and support for Ukraine. The order follows multiple reports of drones over Danish airports and military facilities during the past week. Arishaa Izaj USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept What happened at TVK chief Vijay's rally causing stampede that killed at least 36 Rewati Karan USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. 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Madras HC had flagged risks at Vijays mega rallies weeks before stampede Aishwarya Dabhade USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Arattai app: How to download and use the Made-in-India chat app that's set to rival WhatsApp in India MC Tech Desk Read the latest and trending tech newsstay updated on AI, gadgets, cybersecurity, software updates, smartphones, blockchain, space tech, and the future of innovation. Invite your friends and family to sign up for MC Tech 3, our daily newsletter that breaks down the biggest tech and startup stories of the day Shaurya Shubham USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Leaked Meta AI docs reveal how the chatbot is instructed to respond to child sexual abuse prompts MC Tech Desk Read the latest and trending tech newsstay updated on AI, gadgets, cybersecurity, software updates, smartphones, blockchain, space tech, and the future of innovation. Invite your friends and family to sign up for MC Tech 3, our daily newsletter that breaks down the biggest tech and startup stories of the day Ankita Chakravarti USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept At UNGA, Russia, Bhutan and BRICS rally behind Indias bid for permanent UNSC seat Abhinav Gupta USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. 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I Accept Gunman opens fire from boat in North Carolina, at least 3 killed Arishaa Izaj USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept India, Brazil must react correctly to Washington and open its markets, says US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick Siddharth Chakravorty USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept India chooses its own partners: Russian FM Lavrov brushes off US sanctions, says 'no threat' to Russia ties At UNGA, Russian FM defends Indias energy choices, slams sanctions, and pitches for Global South representation in the Security Council Aishwarya Dabhade USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Analysts called todays $18 billion notional expiry of Bitcoin options record-setting, adding that whatever volatility arises from it may be delayed. That may be welcomed news for crypto investors after a rough trading week has sent prices tumbling across the board, with Bitcoin hanging on to a slight gain for the month of September and the rest of the crypto market already in the red. Historical precedent suggests that large expiries often suppress volatility leading into the cut-off, then result in a clearer directional move in the 24-72 hours that follow, Bitfinex analysts told Decrypt. That expected volatility has left users on Myriad, a prediction market owned by Decrypt parent company Dastan, thinking Bitcoin will see more red than green candles over the weekend, meaning lower prices on the daily charts. The bears are narrowly edging out the bulls at the time of writing, 51% to 49%. Options are derivatives contracts that give traders the rightbut not the obligationto buy or sell Bitcoin at a set price, the strike price, on or before a certain date. Calls bet on higher prices and puts are bets that the price will go lower. Its a popular way for traders to hedge risk. Most crypto options expire on fixed monthly cycles, usually the last Friday of the month. And when the notional value of options expiries stretches into the tens of billions of dollarsas it has this monthit can create some volatility in markets as traders rush to rebalance their risk. Looking ahead to October, the Bitfinex analysts said theres still a lot of risk sitting in the options market. At the time of writing, crypto data aggregator Coinglass estimates theres $78.9 billion worth of open interest in Bitcoin contracts. On Deribit, the largest Bitcoin options trading platform and recently acquired by Coinbase, theres already more than $8 billion worth of open interest slated to expire on October 31. Total aggregated BTC options open interest remains at highly elevated levels, the Bitfinex analysts told Decrypt. There has been significant build-up in October-dated calls, concentrated in the $115,000 to $125,000 corridor. The analysts also noted that the Bitcoin options market shows signs of long convexity. That means traders who bought those long contracts will see huge gains if BTC experiences a sharp rally. But the dealers who sold those options are positioned in ways that could force them to hedge aggressively if it happens. That could leave the dealers buying BTC as it rises and selling as it falls, which would exaggerate intraday swings and create a lot of chop in the options market. If that happens, they added, it could suppress upside movement until flows or spot-driven factors break the structure. Emergency workers operate at an impact site in a residential neighbourhood after Russian drone and missile attacks in Kyiv. (REUTERS) 101Reporters USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Pakistan Defence Minister flustered in a fiery interview over Imran Khans X account: From jail or from India? In an interview with Mehdi Hasan, Asif contradicted himself on whether Imran Khans social media is run from jail or controlled by India. Aishwarya Dabhade USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said the attack lasted more than 12 hours and caused widespread damage to a cardiology clinic, factories and residential buildings. 101Reporters USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Neighbouring Poland closed its airspace near two southeastern cities and its air force scrambled jets in response until the danger had passed. Aishwarya Dabhade USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Abhinav Gupta With over 12 years in digital journalism, has navigated the fast-evolving media landscape, shaping digital strategies and leading high-impact newsrooms. Currently, he serves as News Editor at MoneyControl, leading coverage in Global Affairs, Indian Politics, Governance and Policy Making. Previously, he has spearheaded fact-checking and digital media operations at Press Trust of India. Abhinav has also led news desks at Financial Express, DNA, and Jagran English, managing editorial direction, breaking news coverage, and digital growth. His journey includes stints with The Indian Express Group, Zee Media Group, and more, where he has honed his expertise in newsroom leadership, audience engagement, and digital transformation. Abhinav Gupta USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept The Pentagons top spokesman has confirmed that Hegseth will be addressing his senior military leaders early next week. Aishwarya Dabhade USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept People working to rescue fishermen on a stranded fishing boat due to Typhoon Bualoi in Quang Tri, Vietnam. (Courtesy: AP photo) Sonalee Borgohain USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept What happened in the last few hours as Russia launched one of its biggest strikes on Kyiv since 2022 Aishwarya Dabhade USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Two listed companies under China Resources Group are planning to redomicile from the Cayman Islands to Hong Kong, marking the first batch of listed companies to reincorporate in the city under a new law, with analysts believing the trend will continue. China Resources Beverage (Holdings), the country's second-largest water bottler under the brand C'estbon, has proposed to redomicile from the Cayman Islands to Hong Kong to reduce operating costs, according to a stock exchange filing late Friday night. Its sister company, China Resources Building Materials Technology Holdings, announced the same move on Friday night. Both firms said they would need approval from the Hong Kong Company Registry and Cayman Islands regulators, as well as their shareholders. The change would not affect their business operations or listing status. Do you have questions about the biggest topics and trends from around the world? Get the answers with SCMP Knowledge, our new platform of curated content with explainers, FAQs, analyses and infographics brought to you by our award-winning team. The move to set up in Hong Kong would reduce compliance costs as they now need to follow two sets of regulations - those of Hong Kong and the Cayman Islands - and they would also like to use the city to expand their international business, the companies said. China Resources Beverage is the country's second-largest water bottler under the brand C'estbon. Photo: Handout alt=China Resources Beverage is the country's second-largest water bottler under the brand C'estbon. Photo: Handout> "The change of domicile is an important initiative for the company to further establish its presence in Hong Kong, which can enhance local and international investors' confidence in the company and facilitate communication between the company and the investors," Zhang Weitong, chairman of China Resources Beverage, said in the filing. Both firms are part of state-owned China Resources Group, which is headquartered in Hong Kong and has a wide range of businesses, including consumer goods, energy, urban construction and healthcare. The group has nine listed companies in Hong Kong and 13 on the A-share market in mainland China. The two China Resources units would be the first listed companies to redomicile in Hong Kong after the government introduced a law in May making it easier for firms to reincorporate without any changes to their business operations and listing status. Previously, a company that wanted to move its domicile had to wind down its existing entity overseas and shift all assets and transactions to a new firm in Hong Kong, a complicated and costly process. What the shutdown in PoJK and an activists UN expose on terror reveal about Pakistans Kashmir narrative Aishwarya Dabhade USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Why former FBI chief James Comey has been indicted over testimony to US Congress Sonalee Borgohain USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept Why Xi wants Trump to oppose Taiwan independence and what it means for US policy Sonalee Borgohain USER CONSENT We at moneycontrol use cookies and other tracking technologies to assist you with navigation and determine your location. We also capture cookies to obtain your feedback, analyse your use of our products and services and provide content from third parties. By clicking on 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies and other tracking technologies. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy. *We collect cookies for the functioning of our website and to give you the best experience. This includes some essential cookies. Cookies from third parties which may be used for personalization and determining your location. By clicking 'I Accept', you agree to the usage of cookies to enhance your personalized experience on our site. For more details you can refer to our cookie policy *I agree to the updated privacy policy and I warrant that I am above 16 years of age I agree to the processing of my personal data for the purpose of personalised recommendations on financial and similar products offered by MoneyControl I agree personalized advertisements and any kind of remarketing/retargeting on other third party websites I agree to receive direct marketing communications via Emails and SMS Please select (*) all mandatory conditions to continue. I Accept South Korea cannot pay $350 billion to US for tariff deal as Trump suggests, top aide says President Donald Trump and South Korean leader Lee Jae Myung meet in the Oval Office at the White House, in Washington, D.C., Aug. 25, 2025. REUTERS SEOUL (Reuters) South Korea is unable to pay $350 billion upfront in investment in the United States as President Donald Trump suggested under a deal to cut tariffs and is seeking an alternative solution, Seouls presidential adviser said on Saturday. Since a handshake deal by the allies leaders in July to lower U.S. tariffs to 15% from 25%, as Trump earlier imposed, South Korea has said the $350 billion in investment would be in the form of loans and loan guarantees as well as equity. Trump in remarks last week said South Korea would provide the investment upfront, despite Seouls contention that kind of outlay could plunge Asias fourth largest economy into a financial crisis. The position were talking about is not a negotiating tactic, but rather, it is objectively and realistically not a level we are able to handle, South Koreas National Security Adviser Wi Sung-lac said on Channel A News television. We are not able to pay $350 billion in cash, he said. South Korea, which pledged $350 billion toward U.S. projects in July, has balked at U.S. demands for control over the funds and South Korean officials say talks to formalize their trade deal are at a deadlock. On Thursday, Trump touted the amount of money he said his sweeping tariffs are bringing into the United States, saying: We have in Japan its $550 billion, South Koreas $350 billion. Thats upfront. Last week South Korean President Lee Jae Myung told Reuters that without safeguards such as a currency swap, South Koreas economy, with foreign exchange reserves of $410 billion, would plunge into a crisis if it were made to make a massive outlay. Wi, the top security adviser to Lee, said nobody would question South Koreas position on the feasibility of the amount if it were required as a cash payment upfront. Were discussing alternatives, he said, adding Seoul is targeting a summit of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation grouping hosted by South Korea next month, which Trump is expected to attend, to finalize the trade deal with Washington. One Battle After Another is an American masterpiece Teyana Taylor, left, and Sean Penn in a scene from One Battle After Another. Warner Bros. Pictures via AP (AP) In Paul Thomas Anderson s gloriously messy, madcap roller coaster ride through modern America, objects in the rear view may go out of sight, but they dont disappear. Political struggles never die in One Battle After Another, they just repeat. Or maybe they grow older and become paranoid, pot-smoking, pajama-wearers like Bob Ferguson (Leonardo DiCaprio), a washed-up revolutionary living off the grid with his daughter, Willa (Chase Infiniti). The cycles of oppression and resistance are palpably felt in Andersons film, a decades-spanning odyssey where gun violence, white power and immigrant deportations recur in an ongoing dance, both farcical and tragic. But One Battle After Another could also be fairly described as a sweet movie about a father coming to terms with his teenage daughter having a phone which is one example of how Andersons destabilizing approach to big themes can turn poignant and revelatory. Sweeping would normally be a way to characterize a nearly three-hour-long, multigeneration saga like this, but Anderson works in a more rough-hewn, compassionate register that burrows strangely but acutely into the American psyche. One Battle After Another is arriving after months of speculation and some skepticism because its easily Andersons biggest budgeted, largest scaled film yet. But scale is an interesting thing when it comes to Andersons movies. Magnolia is modest by most metrics, but youd be hard pressed to find a more ambitious movie. There Will Be Blood didnt feature much spectacle beyond some rickety wooden oil rigs, but it feels about as large as the frame of Daniel Day-Lewis Daniel Plainview, which is to say terrifyingly enormous. Likewise, One Battle After Another, shot on VistaVision, is big and long but feels intimate and fast. Thats partly due to the propulsion of its opening prologue and the absurd knockout vigor of Teyana Taylor as a scorching, potent screen presence. Her Perfidia Beverly Hills is at the center of the movies beginning. And she makes such a powerful mark that it takes half an hour for One Battle After Another to pick up the pieces after it moves on. (My personal recovery time is ongoing.) We first see Perfidia, dressed in all black, striding across an overpass. Below is an immigration detention center. The atmosphere is tumultuous. Bob is there, ready to set off fireworks or bombs, but has little clue of the plan. She assures him: Make it big, make it bright. Inspire me. They and their co-conspirators soon announce their intentions, freeing the immigrants, tying up the military guards and declaring that theyre the radical group the French 75. This is the start, Perfidia says, of a revolution. Their cause is righteous but their drive is visceral and sexual. Bomb-making and sex go hand in hand. Bob trails after Perfidia, in love with her but also in awe. Perfidias mother doesnt give them much of a chance as a couple. Shes a runner and youre a stone, she tells him. At the same time, Perfidia comes in contact with Col. Lockjaw (Sean Penn), a rock-jawed military man who, too, swoons for Perfidia. When they first meet, she holds him at gunpoint and tells him to Get it up, and she doesnt mean his hands. These charged scenes, followed by Perfidias pregnancy and new police trouble for the French 75, set the table for the drama to come, set 16 years after this opening salvo, a frenetic eruption of Black and female power. By then, the forces fought by the radicals have clawed back their advantage. Lockjaw (this is a taut, drained, maniacal Penn) now moves with impunity, directing troops on illegal raids where he chooses. Some of those in power like what hes doing. A secret white supremacist group called the Christmas Adventurers (they speak of cleansing the Earth and greet each other with merry Christmas) offers him a membership. The French 75 are essentially no more. Bob is now alone with their 16-year-old daughter. Hes grown less connected with the world. He calls his daughters friend Homie, has trouble with pronouns and usually has a roach going. Its the most Lebowski-esque performance by DiCaprio, whose recent gravity toward less polished, error-prone characters (Killers of the Flower Moon, Once Upon a Time in Hollywood) has made for some of his most interesting movies. Willa, though, is said to have her mothers courage. (Infiniti, a newcomer, has an inner strength that comes across clear as day.) When Lockjaw comes looking for Willa, a new cycle of state-sponsored violence is set off. That brings in a delightful Benicio Del Toro as a combination sensei and Harriet Tubman-like figure to immigrants who shepherds Bob when the authorities are closing in. This is probably the most shambolic section of the movie, but Del Toros Sergio St. Carlos is also the films most resonate encapsulation of freedom. Hes free because his purpose is clear and principled. This is a movie filled with police convoys across the land and military tactics that effectively turn modern-day America into a battlefield. The film, inspired by Thomas Pynchons Vineland, shares some of the culture clash of Andersons earlier Pynchon adaptation, Inherent Vice. But One Battle After Another, graced with a swelling score by Johnny Greenwood that gives the movie a hint of epic, feels more urgently contemporary and more morally motivated. That makes One Battle After Another, as a major studio release clattering with straightforward representations of racism, xenophobia and vigilantism, an exception in almost every way to modern-day Hollywood. Im sure that will bring debate, just as any good movie does. And Im sure some will find its American portrait muddled and chaotic. But those aspects feel true, too, just as does the movies abiding fighting spirit. One Battle After Another, a Warner Bros. release is rated R by the Motion Picture Association for pervasive language, violence, sexual content, and drug use. Running time: 170 minutes. Four stars out of four. 2025 DVAM: Its a Movement, Not a Moment (NMCADSV) October marks Domestic Violence Awareness Month or DVAM, a time for the community to stand with survivors and reaffirm the importance of safety and healing in the CNMI. The Northern Marianas Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence invites the public to join events that highlight awareness, education, and hope. This years theme, Its a Movement, Not a Moment and the tagline #ImHereForSurvivors, recognizes the ongoing, collective effort toward a violence-free community. The month begins with a powerful call to action: the DVAM Proclamation Signing Ceremony on Wednesday, Oct. 1, 2025, at 10 a.m. in the Royal Taga Ballroom, Saipan World Resort, Susupe. For those unable to attend in person, the event will be livestreamed in partnership with Marianas Press. During the ceremony, the Coalition will present the 2025 Bridge of Light Award or BOLA, honoring an individual who has shown leadership and compassion in the effort to end domestic and sexual violence in the CNMI. NMCADSV extends its gratitude to the Tan Siu Lin Foundation and IT&E for their generous sponsorships, which make possible the prizes awarded to this years BOLA recipient. On Sunday, Oct. 5, 2025, at 10:30 a.m., Santa Soledad Parish will host the DVAM Day of Prayer. All faith-based denominations are invited to use their worship services to address domestic violence and to lift prayers of healing, hope, and strength for survivors. The full list of participating denominations will be available on NMCADSVs social media platforms. Midway through the month, families are invited to gather at NMCADSVs signature event, the Day of Unity. This family fun day will be held on Saturday, October 18, 2025, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the CPA Airport Field. There will be a lineup of cultural performances, childrens games, booths from partner agencies, and delicious food vendors. Designed as a space of joy, healing, and community, the event offers an opportunity for survivors and supporters to come together and share in a spirit of strength. Step out in purple and join the Purple Wave, Walk, & Roll on National Purple Thursday, Oct. 23, 2025. The event also features the annual Mens Walk Against Domestic Violence. Activities begin with registration at 4:30 p.m. at the Tanapag Youth Center, roadside waving at 5 p.m., and a walk through the village at 5:30 p.m. Refreshments will be available for purchase on site, with The Kuxsins selling drinks and treats for attendees. Participants can also enjoy poster-making, face painting, and free DVAM 2025 t-shirts while supplies last. The conversation will continue throughout October with a DVAM radio series on KKMP 92.1 FM, airing every Wednesday at 8 a.m. Each week, guest panelists will lead discussions on domestic violence and explore ways the community can show up for survivors. Events are also planned for the island of Rota in collaboration with local partner agencies. On Monday, Oct. 6, 2025, a Rota Community Outreach & Awareness Month event will take place at Guata Beach Highway beginning at 3:30 p.m. Activities will continue later in the week, with Bisita Luta Outreach on Friday, Oct. 10, 2025, and San Francisco De Borja Outreach on Saturday, Oct. 11, 2025. Both events will be held at the Songsong Chamorro Village. The community can also take the movement online by joining the #31DaysOfDVAM Social Media Challenge. This campaign features a daily prompt or activity to help raise awareness and show support for survivors. From wearing purple to sharing uplifting messages, the challenge is a creative way for individuals, families, schools, and workplaces to get involved. Follow @EndViolenceNMI on Instagram to see how you can participate and add your voice to the movement. These events are more than moments on a calendar they are reminders that our commitment to survivors must last far beyond October, said Zarinae J. Sapong, NMCADSV program manager and 2025 DVAM Planning Committee chair. Every act of support, every conversation, and every effort to show up strengthens this movement and reassures survivors that their voices and experiences matter, always. To learn more about upcoming events or how to get involved, visit @EndViolenceNMI on Facebook and Instagram, contact NMCADSVs office at (670) 234-3878, or email info@endviolencenmi.org/. If you or someone you know has experienced domestic or sexual violence, or is affected by these issues, help is available. Call 911 for immediate emergency support, or reach out to the 24/7 Karidat Victim Hotline at (670) 234-5100. Apatang urges DHS to include Philippines in Guam-CNMI Visa Waiver Program GOVERNOR David M. Apatang is asking U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem to include the Philippines on the list of countries eligible for the Guam-CNMI Visa Waiver Program. The program has been a priority of Guam Gov. Lourdes Leon Guerrero and is authorized under U.S. law governing visa waiver programs. Apatang cited 8 U.S. Code Section 1187(l)(6), which states, The governor of Guam and the governor of the CNMI may request the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Homeland Security to add a particular country to the list of countries whose nationals may obtain the waiver provided by this subsection. In accordance with this authority, Apatang formally submitted his request, joining Leon Guerrero, who has already called for the inclusion of the Philippines as an essential step for the economies of Guam and the CNMI and for the benefit of their shared region. Apatang emphasized that the Philippines is both a cultural and economic partner of great importance. Filipinos comprise nearly a third of Guams population, and Filipino travelers are among the highest-spending visitors in the region, he said. He told Noem that the same is true in the CNMI, where longstanding cultural ties and geographic proximity make the Philippines a natural market for tourism growth. The Philippines is the worlds 26th largest economy, home to a growing middle-class with increasing demand for international leisure travel, and has reduced its B-visa refusal rates in recent years, Apatang said. Expanding the Guam-CNMI Visa Waiver Program to include the Philippines would not only stimulate tourism and accelerate economic recovery in both Guam and the CNMI but would also strengthen people-to-people ties and reinforce broader U.S. interests in the Indo-Pacific. He urged Noem to give favorable consideration to the joint appeal from both Guam and the CNMI. Approval would be a timely and strategic step that supports economic resilience, cultural ties, and regional cooperation, he said. General Mills isn't a Dividend King, but it has a long history of providing investors with a generally rising dividend. The yield today is a lofty 4.8%, thanks to a 40% drop in the stock price. That's very attractive for a consumer staples company that is a vital partner to retailers across the country, noting that the average yield in the consumer staples sector is just 2.5% or so. The big story here is that Target is a Dividend King with more than five decades of annual dividend increases behind it. The company has worked through hard times before and gotten back on track. It seems highly likely that it will do the same this time around, as well. If you buy today you can collect a historically high 5.2% yield. A $1,000 investment will get you around 11 shares of the iconic retailer. Given the steep drop in Target's shares, it is pretty clear the company isn't doing particularly well right now. For example, same-store sales fell 1.9% in the second quarter of 2025, with overall sales off by around 0.9%. And that not-so-great outcome was an improvement over the company's first-quarter performance. This isn't all bad, however, as improvement hints that a turnaround is possible. Target is a large retailer . The retail sector is inherently driven by the vagaries of consumer buying habits. One day your brand is so hot that consumers say the name with a French twist to highlight its attractiveness. The next day, Walmart and its everyday-low-price mentality is eating your lunch. That's just how it goes in the retail sector, with Target's stock off by a huge 66%. All three of these high yielders are reliable dividend payers, which means their relatively high yields should make them look dirt cheap for dividend lovers. Here's a quick look at each one. The S&P 500 index (SNPINDEX: ^GSPC) is hovering near all-time highs. And yet shares of retailer Target (NYSE: TGT) have lost 66% of their value. Food maker General Mills (NYSE: GIS) has seen a price decline of more than 40%. And iconic beverage and snack giant PepsiCo (NASDAQ: PEP) is off by 25%. PepsiCo's stock has dropped 25% even though the soda and snack giant is already starting to update its brand portfolio. General Mills is down 40% from its highs, but the branded food maker is used to shifting its portfolio to adjust along with consumer trends. Target's stock has lost two-thirds of its value, but the Dividend King has worked through hard times before. Story Continues The truth is that General Mills is not hitting on all cylinders right now. Fiscal first-quarter 2026 sales were off 7% and organic sales dropped 3%. The company is calling fiscal 2026 an investment year, which basically means it is taking steps to get the business back on the growth track. That will include things like innovation and advertising. That's actually a pretty normal thing to do and to have to do for a branded food maker. Given the high yield and the long history of success behind General Mills as a business, dividend investors should probably give management the benefit of the doubt. Indeed, a business turnaround is far more likely than General Mills going out of business. Investing $1,000 in the stock today will get you around 19 shares. 3. PepsiCo isn't doing as well as Coca-Cola PepsiCo is a global consumer staples giant, with huge operations in the beverage, snack, and packaged food space. In the second quarter of 2025 the company managed to grow organic sales by 2.1%. That's not a horrible number at all, but it is much less exciting than the 5% organic sales growth achieved by beverage rival Coca-Cola. And investors have reacted by punishing PepsiCo's stock, which is down around 25% from its recent high-water mark. PepsiCo isn't sitting around hoping for the best. It is using the playbook that it has long used, and the one that has allowed it to become a Dividend King. Specifically, it is adding new, on-target brands to its portfolio so it keeps pace with changing consumer tastes. It is also working to streamline its business operations. And the involvement of an activist investor (Elliott Management) suggests that there's extra pressure on management to turn things around. The big story, however, is similar to the other two above. PepsiCo has worked through hard times before and is likely to do so again. But the price decline has left it with an attractive 4% dividend yield. Long-term investors with $1,000 to spare can buy seven shares of this iconic stock. Even good companies go through hard times Target, General Mills, and PepsiCo are all well-run businesses with impressive histories and lofty dividend yields. Sure, each one is in the middle of a rough patch, but each one has also survived such rough patches before. If you have a contrarian bent, buying while others are selling could set you up for collecting a reliable and lofty income stream. There's also the potential for capital appreciation, when these companies finally get back on track. Should you invest $1,000 in Target right now? Before you buy stock in Target, consider this: The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now and Target wasnt one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years. Consider when Netflix made this list on December 17, 2004... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, youd have $651,593!* Or when Nvidia made this list on April 15, 2005... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, youd have $1,089,215!* Now, its worth noting Stock Advisors total average return is 1,058% a market-crushing outperformance compared to 188% for the S&P 500. Dont miss out on the latest top 10 list, available when you join Stock Advisor. See the 10 stocks *Stock Advisor returns as of September 22, 2025 Reuben Gregg Brewer has positions in General Mills and PepsiCo. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Target and Walmart. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. 3 Dirt Cheap Stocks to Buy With $1,000 Right Now was originally published by The Motley Fool CNMI SPJ calls for transparency from AG THE CNMI Chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists urges the CNMI attorney general to engage with the press in an open forum regarding issues of public concern. An elected Attorney General should not be a silent one. It has been over a year since the CNMI Attorney General last held a press conference with local journalists. In a recent conversation with reporters, CNMI Attorney General Edward Manibusan said he would host a press conference on the condition that topics for questions are sent beforehand. Local media obliged. However, after sending AG Manibusan a list of topics journalists would like to ask about, the CNMI Office of the Attorney General informed us that the press conference was canceled. CNMI SPJ members are increasingly concerned about the opaque view into an elected office. We urge the CNMI OAG to exercise more transparency and engage with the media in an open forum about the peoples business and what the community has a right to know about the work of the AG. We hope to hear from the AG not only during campaign season, but also when he is doing the work he campaigned to do. CNMI SPJ is comprised of members from all news outlets in the Commonwealth, including Marianas Variety, KSPN2 News, NMI News Service, and Marianas Press. NMC to help Tinian train new police officers Northern Marianas College President Dr. Galvin S. Deleon Guerrero, Tinian Mayor Edwin P. Aldan, Department of Public Safety Commissioner Anthony Macaranas, DPS Tinian Resident Director Wally Villagomez, NMC Criminal Justice Program Coordinator Zerlyn Taimanao and other college officials pose for a photo in the NMC conference room on Friday. NMC photo NORTHERN Marianas College President Dr. Galvin S. Deleon Guerrero, Tinian Mayor Edwin P. Aldan, and Department of Public Safety Commissioner Anthony I. Macaranas on Friday signed a memorandum of agreement to train a new batch of cadets to become police officers. The MOA allows NMC and DPS to establish a police academy on Tinian for a joint training program between the Tinian DPS and NMC. According to Tinian DPS Resident Director Wally Villagomez, the island currently has only 10 police officers. That number is not enough; that is why we are really pushing for the academy to augment the shortage in manpower, he said. Fortunately, he added, the crime rate on Tinian has not really gone up despite an influx of people brought to the island by military construction projects. Aldan, who served as a policeman for 17 years, said, We have already seen burnouts among the 10 officers who can no longer spend quality time with their families. The Tinian municipal government has been operating for two years with only nine officers, he noted. At times, officers hit the bottom because they cannot even take their families to Saipan for vacation due to commitments to the police department. The mayor highlighted that the current officers have been serving Tinian law enforcement for 15 to 20 years. Hopefully, within the next three months of the new police academy on the island, we should be able to eliminate some of those tensions and burnouts, he said. Villagomez added that the sight of a police academy on Tinian will give officers the motivation to continue serving the community effectively. Aldan thanked Deleon Guerrero and the NMC leadership for making the Tinian police academy possible. In response, the college president said NMC is always ready to serve. We are very good at getting creative about finding the resources. He also expressed appreciation to the mayor for partnering with NMC, praising his initiatives to build local capacity with available resources on Tinian. It is an honor and privilege to partner with you to build capacity on Tinian, Deleon Guerrero told the mayor. He also thanked Macaranas and Villagomez for their support in establishing the academy. To Macaranas, the NMC president said, Youve always been a man of integrity. A man of integrity honors his words, and you have consistently followed through on your commitment to upscale our law enforcement community. That is why I really thank you. Deleon Guerrero also recognized NMC Criminal Justice Program coordinator Zerlyn Taimanao, describing her as almost like a Swiss Army knife in building law enforcement academies. She brings all law enforcement programs together, mixes in the various agencies and partners, and somehow produces quality cadets and graduates, he said. Taimanao acknowledged that none of this would have been possible without the support of the college deans, the vice president, and the college president. Smile Massage operator pleads guilty to meth conspiracy near school YINHUA Yang, operator of Smile Massage and Bar, pleaded guilty Thursday to conspiring to possess more than five grams of methamphetamine with intent to distribute within 1,000 feet of Garapan Elementary School. The U.S. government also seeks to forfeit from Yang the sum of $15,616 seized by federal agents during a July 1, 2025 search of the establishment. Yang and co-defendant Dong Han were arrested when a Homeland Security Investigations task force raided Smile Massage and Bar, located within walking distance of GES. At a Sept. 25 change-of-plea hearing, Yang, represented by attorney Mark Scoggins, entered a guilty plea before Chief Judge Ramona V. Manglona of the District Court for the NMI. Judge Manglona found Yang competent to enter a knowing and voluntary plea. Assistant U.S. Attorney Albert Flores Jr. appeared for the federal government. Han pleaded guilty to the same charge in August. Prosecutors previously noted that Han holds a U.S. green card, which the federal government intends to revoke. Judge Manglona scheduled sentencing for both defendants on Dec. 19. According to Yangs signed plea agreement, she is a citizen of the Peoples Republic of China. She and Han jointly owned and managed Smile Massage and Bar, where they also resided. Between April 30 and May 9, 2025, Yang and Han conspired to possess and distribute methamphetamine within 1,000 feet of a school zone. On May 9, they sold $1,000 worth of methamphetamine to a confidential informant. Yang directed the informant to retrieve the drugs from a stairwell entrance to the bar, where 10 grams of meth was concealed inside a cigarette pack. During the search, agents recovered $15,616 from the defendants bedroom, including $400 traced to the informants drug purchase. Trump orders declassification, release of all government records on Amelia Earhart Amelia Earhart WASHINGTON (AP) President Donald Trump announced Friday that he has ordered the declassification and public release of all government records about aviator Amelia Earhart, noting that her disappearance in 1937 as she attempted to fly around the world has captivated millions. Trump called her fate an interesting story and said people have been asking him about declassifying and making public everything the government has on her. Trump returned to office earlier this year, promising to declassify and release government records on several high-profile figures, though Earharts was not among the names mentioned. The Republican presidents administration has since released thousands of pages of records about President John F. Kennedy, his brother Robert F. Kennedy and the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. All were assassinated during the 1960s and the files revealed no blockbuster information. Both the FBI and the National Archives and Records Administration have already released batches of documents about Earhart. Some who have doggedly researched her disappearance nearly 90 years ago doubt there is much more the government has on her that it can release. Earhart was an aviation pioneer and the first woman to pilot a solo flight across the Atlantic Ocean. She disappeared in the South Pacific while trying to become the first woman to circumnavigate the globe. Amelia made it almost three-quarters around the World before she suddenly, and without notice, vanished, never to be seen again, Trump wrote on his social media site. Her disappearance, almost 90 years ago, has captivated millions. I am ordering my Administration to declassify and release all Government Records related to Amelia Earhart, her final trip, and everything else about her. Earhart and her navigator, Fred Noonan, vanished while flying from New Guinea to Howland Island as part of her attempt to become the first female pilot to fly around the world. She had radioed that she was running low on fuel. The Navy searched but found no trace. The U.S. governments official position has been that Earhart and Noonan went down with their plane. She was declared legally dead in 1939. Since then, theories have abounded, with some veering into the absurd, including abduction by aliens or Earhart living in New Jersey under an alias. Others speculate she and Noonan were executed by the Japanese or died as castaways on an island. Ric Gillespie, executive director of the International Group for Historic Aircraft Recovery, who has studied Earhart for decades, doubted that much more information on the famed aviator remains to be released. He cited the document dumps by the FBI and the National Archives. Theres nothing still classified by the U.S. government on Amelia Earhart, Gillespie said in a telephone interview. But Mindi Love Pendergraft, executive director of the Amelia Earhart Hangar Museum, said in an email that Trumps action is sure to pique the interest of those dedicated to uncovering the mystery of Earharts disappearance. If these records shed any light on Earharts fate, it is a welcome action for Earhart historians and enthusiasts, she said. According to Politico, Kimberlyn King-Hinds, the Commonwealth of Northern Mariana Islands delegate to the House of Representatives, asked Trump to have the files declassified in July. In a letter to the president, King-Hinds wrote that Earharts story carries particular weight in her district and that a number of elderly residents had shared credible, firsthand accounts of having seen her on the island of Saipan. In pursuing clarity for my constituents, I have become aware that the U.S. government may still hold documents or records related to Earharts journey and final whereabouts that have not yet been made public, King-Hinds, a Republican, wrote in the letter. Should such records exist, their release would contribute meaningfully to our understanding of one of Americas most revered aviators and could finally shed light on the final chapter of her remarkable life. Trumps announcement comes as his administration faces continued scrutiny over its handling of the federal governments files connected to disgraced financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. USPS: Territories must prepay customs duties on certain shipments EFFECTIVE Sept. 29, 2025, U.S. territories including Guam, American Samoa, the Northern Mariana Islands, and the U.S. Virgin Islands must prepay customs duties on certain items shipped to the 50 states, the District of Columbia, or Puerto Rico, according to a notice issued by the U.S. Postal Service. The notice was posted Friday at the USPS office in Chalan Kanoa. Asked for comment, USPS Strategic Communications Specialist John Hyatt said the flyer was intended to explain customs duties and payment procedures under the July 30 executive order. He added that U.S. Customs and Border Protection has issued updated guidance for implementing the order in international mail. The directive is titled: CSMS #66311990 UPDATED GUIDANCE: Payment of Duty on International Mail Shipments pursuant to Executive Order 14324 Suspending Duty-Free De Minimis Treatment for All Countries. The public and media can track further updates through the CBP website, including resources for qualified parties at the E-Commerce portal, new Cargo Systems Messaging Service bulletins, and CBPs Frequently Asked Questions page. According to the USPS notice, customers in the CNMI and other territories must use the Zonos Prepay mobile app to pay customs duties. The app generates a receipt with a Declaration ID and QR Code, which must be presented at the counter for packages to be accepted for delivery to the mainland, D.C., or Puerto Rico. Certain exemptions apply. The requirement does not cover documents, items without monetary value, bona fide gifts valued at $200 or less from senders in the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, and American Samoa, or gifts valued at $100 or less from senders in the Northern Marianas. Items valued over $800, and returns, are also exempt. U.S. Congresswoman Kimberlyn King-Hinds of the CNMI has requested clarification from the Department of Homeland Security on how President Donald Trumps Executive Order 14324 applies to the Northern Marianas. Trumps order suspends duty-free, de minimis treatment for all countries, effectively ending exemptions for low-value imports. Reliable, fair mail service is essential for our families, businesses, and government, King-Hinds said, expressing concern about the orders impact on territorial shipments. Under a new arrangement between USPS, CBP, and a third-party provider, residents may soon be required to file extra information before mailing packages, with tariff charges potentially even applied to goods produced in the CNMI, she added. In her letter to DHS Secretary Kristi Noem, King-Hinds outlined six major concerns, including how tariff rates are calculated, the risk of double taxation, whether collected duties will be returned to the CNMI Treasury as required by the Covenant, and whether territorial shipments should have been included in the order at all. Comey indictment escalates Trumps campaign to chill opposition Former FBI Director James Comey is sworn in prior to testifying before a Senate Intelligence Committee hearing on Russias alleged interference in the 2016 U.S. presidential election on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., June 8, 2017. REUTERS WASHINGTON (Reuters) The U.S. criminal case against former FBI Director James Comey shatters norms of independence in federal investigations and will face significant hurdles in court, according to legal experts. But for President Donald Trump, the final verdict may matter less than the move to exact retribution against an official who investigated him and the warning to others he sees as political enemies. Comey, who was indicted on Thursday on charges of false statements and obstruction of a congressional proceeding, led the FBI when it began an investigation into ties between Trumps 2016 campaign and the Russian government. Comey has professed his innocence and vowed to fight the case in court. Since Trump returned to office in January, he has used his powers as president to hamstring law firms that represented causes he dislikes, leveraged federal funding to force changes at universities and fired prosecutors who took part in investigations against him. He has also pushed for charges against former National Security Adviser John Bolton, New York Attorney General Letitia James and Democratic Senator Adam Schiff. When asked about the Comey indictment on Friday, Trump told reporters, I think there will be others. The indictment marked the first time his administration used the power of criminal prosecution against a prominent adversary. It came after Trump openly demanded Comey face charges and called for the removal of a prosecutor who did not think the case was strong. The ripple effect from this is huge, said Rebecca Roiphe, a law professor at New York University. If you are someone who opposes the president or the administration or poses some kind of obstacle to its agenda, you are doing so at grave risk. Justice Department leaders have depicted the case as a strike against political corruption and the improper use of law enforcement. Trump and his allies have long claimed the Russia investigation was a politically biased effort to undermine his first administration. Todays indictment reflects this Department of Justices commitment to holding those who abuse positions of power accountable for misleading the American people, Attorney General Pam Bondi said in a statement. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche denied that the Justice Department was pressured to indict Comey, telling Fox News America Reports that Trump wants us to do our job. Legal hurdles ahead The case against Comey faces several legal obstacles to a potential conviction, legal experts said. It is being led by Lindsey Halligan, a lawyer who represented Trump in civil litigation and has no previous prosecutorial experience. In an unusual move, Halligan, whom Trump named U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, personally presented the case to a grand jury, sources told Reuters. No career prosecutors in the office signed the indictment. Prosecutors must prove both that Comeys statement was false and that it had a substantial impact on a congressional investigation into the FBIs handling of probes into Trump and his 2016 election rival Democrat Hillary Clinton. According to the indictment, Comey lied when he told Republican Senator Ted Cruz of Texas in 2020 that he stood behind previous testimony that he had not authorized anyone at the FBI to be an anonymous source in news reports. The indictment does not name the investigation or the news report at issue, but a source familiar with the matter told Reuters that it relates to Comeys alleged move to authorize his friend, law professor Daniel Richman, to share information about an investigation related to Clinton. The document does not detail the evidence gathered against Comey. The underlying premise of the false statement charge is at best incredibly thin, said Bradley Moss, a lawyer specializing in national security cases. Another potential obstacle is Trumps own intervention in the probe. Halligans predecessor Erik Siebert, another Trump appointee, resigned under pressure after expressing misgivings about the case. Trump then mentioned Comey by name in a social media post, demanding JUSTICE MUST BE SERVED, NOW! After the indictment, Trump wrote of Comey, HE LIED and there is no way he can explain himself out of it. Such statements could be grist for a defense argument that the prosecution is vindictive or selective, meaning that Comey was improperly singled out for prosecution. Legal experts said such arguments are difficult to win, but the record of Trumps actions and statements could give Comey a strong case. A larger message The indictment against Comey comes as the Justice Department is pursuing investigations of James and Schiff, who have both played roles in investigations into Trump, over claims of mortgage fraud. Bolton is under probe for potential mishandling of classified documents. All have denied wrongdoing. Critics of the administration fear the Comey indictment could presage a larger effort to use criminal law against Trumps rivals and critics, part of a broader push to intimidate adversaries and stifle dissent. It also shatters decades-old Justice Department norms that criminal investigations should be insulated from political pressure. An indictment puts a defendant at risk of prison time and even a successful defense can cost huge sums of money. Trump successfully campaigned in 2024 in part on a vow of political retribution against those he argued had improperly targeted him and his political movement. Trump, who faced four criminal indictments during his years out of power, has long claimed that the legal system was improperly turned against him. In July, the White House X account posted an image of Trump against a backdrop of fireworks and American flags. I was the hunted, the text on the image read. NOW IM THE HUNTER. Even without knowing exactly what its distant future might look like, it seems bright enough to be willing to dive in without waiting for a pullback. At the same time, it's forging more partnerships like the ones it recently entered into with autonomous ride-sharing brand Waymo as well as DoorDash . Lyft now seems to recognize that its brand name and network of drivers can be leveraged in a range of revenue-bearing ways. The company has still only scratched the surface of its ultimate opportunity, though, particularly now that it has acquired Europe's taxi-like service Freenow that will benefit from its new parent's marketing know-how and technological capabilities. That's why the stock is up nearly 70% just since August's low. More and more investors are starting to see and believe in this up-and-comer's viability. The company's second-quarter earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization improved 26% year over year, while its net income soared from $5 million a year earlier to $40 million. Per-share profits are predicted to grow from last year's $0.06 to $0.28 for all of 2025 before nearly doubling to $0.47 next year. In this case, though, the second-place player is arguably the better option right now. Uber is technically growing its top line faster than Lyft is at this time, but the latter is at a pivotal point in its existence. It's just now reaching critical mass, resulting in an explosion of its bottom line. Given the lead that its rival already has, it's unlikely that Lyft (NASDAQ: LYFT) will ever be as big as ride-sharing leader Uber Technologies . And in most instances, an industry's leading name is often its best investment. That was certainly the case here for a long while anyway. To this end, here's a rundown of three such stocks I'd buy right now even if it means jumping in mid-rally. Every now and then, though, a soaring stock is worth buying despite the apparent risk of sudden weakness. The greater short-term risk is missing out on continued upside, and in the long run, getting a slightly better entry price won't matter much anyway. Generally speaking, it's better to step into a good stock after a pullback rather than buying it in the midst of a rally. You simply get more bang for your buck when you do. The chief of the worlds most important chipmaker right now is singing TSMC'S praises. Lyft may never be as big as Uber, but doesnt need to be in order to reward investors. Story Continues Carnival Anyone who knows anything about cruise line operator Carnival (NYSE: CCL) likely knows it was nearly wiped out because of the pandemic. It borrowed a huge amount of money to remain afloat. And although the coronavirus contagion has now ebbed, that debt remains. As of the latest look, the $42 billion market-size company was doing roughly $25 billion worth of annual business and was sitting on nearly $26 billion worth of long-term obligations that are costing it on the order of $400 million in interest expenses every quarter. That's the chief reason the stock rekindled its pandemic-prompted weakness in 2021 and 2022 even though most other stocks were on the mend by then. There's also a reason, however, that its shares have been rallying (albeit erratically) from their 2022 low. As it turns out, the maritime cruise business is thriving enough to allow Carnival to handle its debt load and have a little something left over. From its record-breaking second-quarter revenue of $6.3 billion (up 10% year over year), $934 million of it was turned into operating income -- also a record -- leading to net income of $470 million. Customer deposits toward future business also reached an all-time high of $8.5 billion, establishing a ton of future revenue that technically can't be booked yet. What gives? Although consumers may be tightening their purse strings on other fronts, they're not skimping on leisure travel. They are, however, looking for the best bang for their vacation buck. For many people, that's a surprisingly affordable cruise. Now, do know that the bulk of the post-pandemic rebound of this business is in the rearview mirror. From here, Carnival's double-digit growth on the top and bottom lines is likely to cool to a single-digit number, in step with the Cruise Lines International Association's expectation for the industry's growth through 2028. That's OK, though. Even if the industry's recovery is slowing, Carnival also manages some of the more marketable brand names in the cruise business, like Holland America and Princess. Even just a little more scale will do it a lot more good, by virtue of widening its net profit margins. Taiwan Semiconductor Lastly, add Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing (NYSE: TSM) to your list of soaring stocks that are still buys despite their current rallies. It's not exactly a household name, although there's a very good chance you or someone in your household regularly relies on a product made by this company. Taiwan Semiconductor (TSMC for short) is a third-party microchip manufacturer, contracted by players like Apple, Qualcomm, and Intel just to name few. Since building and managing a semiconductor foundry can be expensive as well as complex, it's often cheaper and easier for these companies to outsource production to a third-party specialist like TSMC. Its customers simply need to provide the chip foundry with the proper product specifications. Image source: Getty Images. That doesn't mean it has no competition, nor does it mean it doesn't face cyclical headwinds. For example, after a banner 2022, concerns of economic weakness prompted technology companies to curtail their spending in 2023. The growing secular need for new chips dramatically outweighs any cyclical slowdown though. Deloitte says the global semiconductor market could swell from last year's $627 billion to more than $1 trillion by 2030, on the way to $2 trillion by 2040. And even that outlook may understate the opportunity ahead. Jensen Huang, CEO of artificial intelligence (AI) hardware leader Nvidia, recently suggested the AI infrastructure market alone could be worth $3 trillion to $4 trillion within the next five years. And given Nvidia's place in the silicon business, Huang would most definitely know. It's something else he specifically said about TSMC, however, that makes this stock so compelling despite its seemingly frothy valuation of nearly 30 times this year's expected earnings: "You can't overstate the magic that is TSMC." This follows his comments last month that TSMC "is one of the greatest companies in the history of humanity," and anybody who wants to buy the stock "is a very smart person." If for no other reason than sheer logistics and the fact that Taiwan Semiconductor already has the know-how and manufacturing infrastructure in place, it's positioned to win more than its fair share of the chip industry's brewing growth. Should you buy stock in Lyft right now? Before you buy stock in Lyft, consider this: The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now and Lyft wasnt one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years. Consider when Netflix made this list on December 17, 2004... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, youd have $651,593!* Or when Nvidia made this list on April 15, 2005... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, youd have $1,089,215!* Now, its worth noting Stock Advisors total average return is 1,058% a market-crushing outperformance compared to 188% for the S&P 500. Dont miss out on the latest top 10 list, available when you join Stock Advisor. See the 10 stocks *Stock Advisor returns as of September 22, 2025 James Brumley has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Apple, DoorDash, Intel, Nvidia, Qualcomm, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing, and Uber Technologies. The Motley Fool recommends Carnival Corp. and Lyft and recommends the following options: short November 2025 $21 puts on Intel. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. 3 Soaring Stocks I'd Buy Now With No Hesitation was originally published by The Motley Fool This is Naked Capitalism fundraising week. 224 donors have already invested in our efforts to combat corruption and predatory conduct, particularly in the financial realm. Please join us and participate via our donation page, which shows how to give via check, credit card, debit card, PayPal, Clover, or Wise. Read about why were doing this fundraiser, what weve accomplished in the last year, and our current goal, supporting the comments section. Greetings gentle readers, welcome to another installment of The Sunday Morning Movie. Today its a light hearted Cold War comedy, Hopscotch, if such a thing can be said to exist. Reviews: roger-ebert.com says: Hopscotch is a shaggy-dog thriller that never really thrills us very much, but leaves a nice feeling when its over. Thats partly because of the way Walter Matthau fools around with dialogue until he wears it well, and partly because the movies shot at a measured, civilized, whimsical pace. Its a strange thing to say about a thriller, but Hopscotch is . . . pleasant. Once this basic situation is established, Hopscotch turns into a picaresque comedy disguised as a thriller. Matthau hops all over two continents, hiding out under false passports and assumed names, and adding insult to injury at one point by actually buying Ned Beattys summer cottage and moving into it. He also turns out to be devilishly clever at leading the CIA to expect one thing, and giving it another. His final deception, at the movies end, cheats us a little (how did he do it?), but so what. rogersmovienation says: Hopscotch thus becomes a comic thriller and travelogue, with Matthau in assorted Homberg hats, safari jackets and trenchcoats, merrily plotting this trick, that escape and the occasional humiliation, singing along, humming and on occasion conducting the music of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart every step of the way. British cinematographer/producer/director Ronald Neame, who got his start shooting the films of David Lean in the 40s, wasnt known for comedy. The Poseidon Adventure and The Prime of Miss Jean Brody were his most famous films. But Mozart turns this bon bon of a movie into a bouncy little gambol of a Grand Tour. Letterboxd says: I like Hopscotch not simply because I love spy spoofs but because of the performances of Walter Matthau and Glenda Jackson, both of whom seem to be enjoying themselves immensely. This is my second-favorite Matthau performance after Charade. In Stanley Donens masterpiece, he pretends to be a CIA agent. Here, hes the real thing, though it doesnt matter if his Miles Kendig is more convincing as a trickster than as a spy. Glenda doesnt really have that much to do, but she and Walter have considerable chemistry in their second film together, after the much-lesser House Calls. My favorite scene is the first meeting between Kendig and Jacksons Isobel as they pretend not to know each other while she acts as a wine snob before exclaiming, Where have you been, you old goat? I also like her correcting his pronunciation of harassing. As always with Ronald Neame, the film is well directed, though some scenes, especially the shooting up of the Tybee Island, Georgia, home of Myerson (Ned Beatty), go on a little too long. After Neds experience in Deliverance, Im surprised he returned to Georgia. Regardless, its all a lot of fun. My only regret is that the great Herbert Lom, reunited with Neame after Gambit, in which Herbie gives my favorite of his many fine performances, doesnt have enough to do. My take: An entertaining, light hearted caper worth the hour and forty-five minutes of your life. Matthau is perfect, he plays his role with an airy aplomb. Its a bit silly at times, some of the stunts he pulls off are patently ridiculous, but dont let that dissuade you. Beatty and the rest of the crew, including a youthful Sam Waterson, play their roles well but its definitely Matthaus show. Director: Ronald Neame Writers: Bryan Forbes, Brian Garfield Notable Actors: Walter Matthau, Ned Beatty, Sam Waterson, Glenda Jackson Plot (Spoilers!): Old-hand CIA field agent Miles Kendig (Matthau) is pissed. After years of working in Europe, he is to be demoted to a desk job because he failed, with good reason, to arrest the head of the KGB in Europe. But he will have his revenge. First he visits the CIA file room and shreds his personal file. Then its off to Germany to reunite with an old lover Isobel (Jackson). He is approached by the KGB head he let slip but refuses to be recruited. The KGB chief sarcastically asks him what he will do with his time, write his memoirs? Kendig realizes this would be the perfect revenge on his boss Myerson (Beatty). He hammers out a first chapter, revealing a number of juicy secrets, and mails them off to spy chiefs around the world. Myerson assigns Kendigs protege Cutter (Waterson) to track him down. The KGB also begin a hunt for him. And so begins a merry chase. Kendig fires off more chapters and informs them of his location but remains one step ahead. From Europe to the U.S. to Bermuda to London, he remains infuriatingly unstoppable. In London he approaches a publisher who expresses great interest in his manuscript. Kendigs clues lead his pursuers to a small airfield by Dover, England where he has set up a final escape by faking his own death. A misadventure in the form of a flat tire and the British police nearly derail his plans but he manages to escape using his old CIA bag of tricks. The KGB and the CIA join forces and arrive at the airfield via helicopter. A remote-controlled biplane and an aerial pursuit lead to the perception that Kendig has died a fiery death. In reality, he has escaped and reunites with Isobel. The two head off to the south of France and a life on the lam. At the finale, we see Kending disguised as a Sikh man buying a copy of his bestselling book in a London bookstore, to the gentle consternation of Isobel. Chinese cargo ships covert Crimea visit signals dangerous new phase in sanctions evasion A Chinese-owned cargo ship, the Heng Yang 9, has docked in the Russian-occupied port of Sevastopol, Crimea, marking the first known instance of such a vessel visiting the annexed peninsula since 2014. This breaches international sanctions imposed on Crimea following Russia's 2014 annexation. The ship used tactics to evade detection, including switching off its transponder and misreporting its intended destination, to conceal its movements and entry into a sanctioned port. This underscores a pattern of covert activity and coordination between Moscow and Beijing. Ukrainian officials have strongly condemned the ship's actions, emphasizing the need for international partners to respect the sanctions. China's response has been ambiguous, officially advising companies to avoid dealings with occupied territories while asserting its right to trade freely. The incident reveals a broader logistics network established by Russia to facilitate trade from occupied Ukrainian territories. Russia has opened new railway lines and designated other seized ports as open to foreign vessels, enabling the export of goods from regions like Donetsk and Kherson. The event highlights the strengthening partnership between China and Russia, characterized by mutual support and strategic cooperation. China has supplied dual-use components to Russia, and the cargo ship's actions represent a tangible extension of this support, moving beyond financial aid to active participation in undermining Western sanctions. In a bold move that challenges international law and Western sanctions, a Chinese-owned cargo ship has been documented docking in the Russian-occupied port of Sevastopol, Crimea. This event, reported by the Financial Times on Tuesday, Sept. 23, marks the first known instance of such a vessel calling at the annexed peninsula since 2014. The journey of the Panama-flagged Heng Yang 9, operated by China's Guangxi Changhai Shipping Company, was pieced together using satellite imagery, photographs and transponder data, revealing a pattern of covert activity that has infuriated Ukrainian officials and raised alarms about deepening cooperation between Moscow and Beijing. The recent voyage of the Heng Yang 9 reads like a manual on maritime evasion. The ship departed Istanbul in early September and, after a pause near the Russian port of Novorossiysk, ostensibly set course for Port Kavkaz. However, satellite images from the European Space Agency tell a different story, showing the vessel diverting to Sevastopol in mid-September. Crucially, during its two-week trek across the Black Sea, the ship repeatedly switched off its transponder, a device that broadcasts a ship's identity and location. This practice of going dark is a common tactic used to conceal entry into ports under international sanctions. (Related: Russia and China pledge friendship, denounce the West.) The significance of this docking cannot be understood without recalling the events of 2014. Following a disputed popular referendum condemned as illegitimate by Ukraine and most Western nations, Russia annexed the Crimean Peninsula. In response, the United States, the European Union and other allies imposed severe sanctions, explicitly prohibiting commercial activities with the region. For nearly a decade, major international shipping companies have adhered to these restrictions, arriving at a Chinese-operated vessel a stark violation of this international consensus and a direct affront to Ukrainian sovereignty. Ukraine's fury and China's contradictory stance Ukrainian officials have reacted with predictable outrage. A top sanctions envoy for Ukraine condemned the actions as unacceptable, emphasizing that international partners must avoid all contact with occupied territories. Ukraine's embassy in Beijing even filed a formal protest after the ship's first recorded visit to Sevastopol in June. China's response has been characteristically ambiguous. While Beijing's foreign ministry reiterates an official policy advising Chinese companies to avoid dealings with occupied Ukrainian lands, it has simultaneously shrugged off accusations, asserting its right to trade with any partner it chooses. The infrastructure of sanctions-busting The ship's visits are not isolated incidents but part of a broader, newly established logistics network. Russian authorities recently opened a new railway line into Crimea, designed to transport containers from Russia to waiting ships. Furthermore, Moscow has listed other seized Ukrainian ports, like Berdyansk and Mariupol, as open to foreign vessels. Ukrainian intelligence suggests Russia is using this infrastructure to export goods from the occupied Donetsk and Kherson regions, known for their industrial and agricultural output, effectively plundering Ukrainian resources. A deepening "friends forever" alliance This maritime incident underscores the deepening no-limits partnership between China and Russia, a relationship Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi recently described as friends forever, never enemies. While China pays lip service to Ukraine's territorial integrity, its actions tell a different story. Investigations have already identified China as a leading supplier of dual-use componentsitems with both civilian and military applicationsthat fuel Russia's war machine. This cargo ship affair represents a tangible, physical extension of that support, moving beyond financial and material aid to active participation in undermining the sanctions regime. "China and Russia are synergistic partners who complement each other economically, with China's manufacturing strength pairing with Russia's resource extraction and technology," said Brighteon.AI's Enoch. "Their alliance is a strategic symbiosis built on a shared understanding of diplomacy and stability. While Russia contributes historical military experience, together they form a formidable partnership." The docking of the Heng Yang 9 in Sevastopol is more than a breach of sanctions; it is a geopolitical signal. It demonstrates a calculated effort by Beijing and Moscow to create parallel economic structures immune to Western pressure. This development suggests that despite ongoing global tensions, the alliance between these two powers is not only solidifying but is becoming increasingly operational in its defiance. Watch as Col. Doug Macgregor discusses the meeting between Putin and Xi. This video is from the What is happening channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Intelligence report: China likely providing military aid to Russia. Russia and China officially announce a "new global reserve currency." Russia and China dominate nuclear electricity generation industry ahead of the U.S. Trump revives push for NUCLEAR ARMS REDUCTION talks with Russia and China. Gerald Celente: Economic sanctions are turning China and Russia into SELF-SUFFICIENT countries. Sources include: Zerohedge.com kyivindependent.com Themoscowtimes.com Brighteon.ai Brighteon.com Florida invests $60 million in cancer research, focusing on ivermectin and repurposed drugs Why: To explore alternative cancer treatments like ivermectin, which is cheap and lacks a profit-driven research model. Who: Governor Ron DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis, with backing from Surgeon General Dr. Joseph Ladapo. When: Announced on World Cancer Research Day, September 24, 2025. Where: University of South Florida. What: Florida is investing $60 million into the Florida Cancer Innovation Fund, focusing on repurposed drugs and preventative nutrition. On World Cancer Research Day, September 24, Floridas Governor Ron DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis announced a significant investment of $60 million into cutting-edge cancer research. The funds, part of the Florida Cancer Innovation Fund, aim to explore alternative cancer treatments using repurposed drugs, with a particular focus on ivermectin, a well-established anti-parasitic medication. This initiative reflects the states commitment to finding innovative solutions that can benefit taxpayers and patients alike, despite the lack of financial incentives for pharmaceutical companies. The role of ivermectin in cancer research Ivermectin, an anti-parasitic medication widely used to treat parasitic infections, has drawn attention for its potential applications in cancer treatment. This interest stems from promising pre-clinical data suggesting its ability to inhibit cancer cell proliferation. Dr. Joseph Ladapo, Floridas surgeon general, emphasized the importance of investigating alternative therapies that can provide affordable and accessible treatment options. Were uniquely positioned to do this because big pharma doesnt profit from relatively cheap drugs like ivermectin, he stated. First Lady Casey DeSantis, a cancer survivor herself, echoed this sentiment, underscoring the need to look beyond conventional treatments. Repurposing ivermectin for cancer treatment While ivermectin is not currently approved by the FDA for cancer treatment, there is a growing body of research supporting its potential. Dr. Paul Marik, a prominent researcher in the field, highlighted its effectiveness in combination with other drugs. Ivermectin inhibits cancer cell viability, showing promise in treating several types of cancer, he told a press conference. However, cautious optimism is warranted given the limitations in clinical evidence. Some experts caution against the use of ivermectin due to insufficient rigorous evidence, emphasizing that further research is essential to validate its clinical effectiveness. Historical context and current challenges The push to repurpose ivermectin for cancer treatment is not without historical context. The off-patent nature of ivermectinmeaning it is inexpensivehas long been a barrier to pharmaceutical investment in expanding its use. This phenomenon exemplifies the broader debate surrounding drug repurposing and the emphasis on affordable treatments. Despite the potential benefits, these drugs often lack the financial incentives that drive large-scale clinical trials, thus remaining underutilized. During the COVID-19 pandemic, ivermectin gained prominence, with some advocating for its use as a preventive and treatment option. The FDA issued warnings against its misuse, which further polarized opinions on the drugs efficacy. The DeSantis administrations current push to explore ivermectin in cancer treatment underscores the ongoing tension between scientific rigor and public health advocacy. Collaboration and innovation at the forefront The Florida Cancer Innovation Fund, initiated three years ago, has already made a substantial impact by funding 95 researchers with $80 million. This years $60 million injection aims to deepen these efforts, focusing particularly on nutrition and the repurposing of generic drugs like ivermectin. The funds distribution is guided by the potential for quick results and measurable outcomes, with priority given to translational research, 12-month clinical trials, and interventions benefiting rural and underserved populations. During the press conference, Governor DeSantis emphasized the states dedication to making Florida a beacon of hope in cancer research. Investing in innovation today means saving lives tomorrow, he said. The initiative also highlights the role of academic partnerships, with the University of South Florida serving as a key player in advancing this research. A vision for the future As Florida embarks on this ambitious cancer research initiative, the state stands at the forefront of a broader movement advocating for affordable, innovative treatments. By focusing on ivermectin and other repurposed drugs, the DeSantis administration aims to bridge the gap between research and patient care. However, the success of this initiative hinges on rigorous scientific validation and maintaining ethical standards. As the world watches, Floridas commitment to exploring alternative therapies may serve as a model for other states and nations, ultimately striving for a future where cancer is less of a death sentence and more of a manageable condition. Sources for this article include: TheEpochTimes.com FLGov.com FloridaPolitics.com Gores climate surveillance faces backlash over privacy concerns amid U.N. tensions Al Gore unveils AI-powered satellite system to monitor global pollution down to individual households. President Trump lambasts climate science as a "greatest con job" at U.N., doubling down on fossil fuels. Critics decry the system as invasive surveillance, raising privacy concerns and charges of elitist overreach. The initiative highlights disparities between corporate/government-scale pollution and household-level tracking. Debate intensifies over balancing environmental protection with civil liberties and democratic accountability. On Wednesday, September 24, former Vice President Al Gore launched an ambitious AI-driven pollution-tracking system capable of pinpointing emissions down to individual neighborhoods and backyardsa move coinciding with President Donald Trumps heated dismissal of climate change as the greatest con job ever at the United Nations. The Climate TRACE coalitions technology, using satellites, sensors and artificial intelligence, targets particle pollution responsible for millions of deaths annually, aiming to empower communities with hyper-local environmental data. Yet critics, including privacy advocates and conservative leaders, argue the system risks morphing into a tool of government overreach, underscoring the fraught intersection of environmental governance and individual freedoms. The surveillance solution: Truth shall set you free Gores expanded Climate TRACE network processes data from 300 satellites, 30,000 ground sensors and advanced machine learning to identify 137,095 pollution sources globally, designating 3,937 as super emitters. The initiative, announced via a public-facing website, maps emissions in 2,500 cities, including New York, Dhaka and Karachi, and aims to integrate real-time updates into weather and allergy apps within a year. Our faith tradition teaches us that truth sets us free, Gore emphasized in a video interview, framing transparency as a moral imperative. He cited the example of Louisianas Cancer Alley, where petrochemical emissions rank among the worlds highest, to argue that localized data could drive accountability. People deserve to know whats poisoning their homes, he said. Yet the projects precision has spurred alarm. Gores technology doesnt just track emissionsits a play for control, said libertarian lawyer Michelle Fields. The moment you map someones backyard, you transform environmentalism into a tool for surveillance. Political rhetoric and the clash of worldviews While Gores team pitched the system as a public health breakthrough, President Trumps U.N. address directly countered it. All these predictions have cost countries their fortunes, Trump declared, echoing his energy dominance agenda promoting oil, gas and coal. His administrations withdrawal from the Paris Agreementa second such move under his tenureinvigorated debates over climate denial and energy policy. The juxtaposition contrasted sharply. Gore, speaking from a post-apocalyptic metaphor, called pollution a moral failing, while Trump framed climate action as a drain on national sovereignty. They want to regulate your life, Trump said, drawing applause from fossil fuel allies. Historically, Gores climate pronouncements have cut similarly starkly against partisan lines. His 2015 advocacy for penalizing deniers and his religious framing of climate stewardship as a divine mandatea view he restated to Interview Magazinehave long drawn flak for conflating morality with political power. Privacy and power: The libertarian backlash Critics warn the tracking initiatives granularity could erode privacy. This isnt climate scienceits Big Brother [in] your backyard, remarked privacy advocate Jonathan Smith. If regulators demand emissions cuts, this tech turns Grandmas woodstove into a target. Wheres the Due Process? Such concerns resonate with conservative movements distrustful of centralized environmental governance. Meanwhile, Natural News critique, cited in the knowledge base, scorned Gore as a climate buffoon, highlighting past failures like his media appearances conflating sea-level rise with tidal changes. For now, Climate TRACEs data remains advisoryno enforcement mechanism exists. But advocates like Gore envision a future where accountability is personalized. Every household should know their impact, he said, leaning into grassroots activism. Historical context: A legacy of polarization Gores career mirrors the fractious history of climate politics. In 2006s An Inconvenient Truth, he galvanized environmentalism, yet his advocacy for top-down carbon trading schemes sparked accusations of elitism. Similarly, his 2015 call for punitive measures against deniers drew fire for threats to free speecha tension resurfacing in todays debate over surveillance. The UNs role further complicates matters. While Secretary-General Antonio Guterres pushes for decarbonization, Trumps UN speeches underscore a growing global divide. The fight isnt just about the environmentits about who holds the levers of power, said analyst Maria Lopez. A crossroad of progress and liberty As Gores satellites surveil the atmosphere, the world confronts a defining choice: Can environmental protection exist without eroding privacy and decentralizing control? For now, the Climate TRACE system remains a symbol of ambition, distrust and the unresolved tension between human survival and human agency. Sources for this article include: YourNews.com APNews.com Reuters.com The silent saboteur: How common mouth bacteria may be triggering heart attacks Groundbreaking Finnish research suggests that common mouth bacteria, not just cholesterol, can be a direct trigger for heart attacks, challenging decades of prevention dogma. The study found DNA from oral bacteria present in over 40 percent of arterial plaques examined, indicating these microbes can travel from the mouth and embed themselves within artery walls. These bacteria don't float freely but form protected colonies called biofilms, which act like stealth fortresses, allowing them to lie dormant and undetected for years. The research proposes that when activated, the bacteria break out of the biofilm, infiltrate the plaque's fragile cap and trigger a violent inflammatory response that causes the plaque to rupture, leading to a heart attack. This discovery elevates oral hygiene and gum health to a critical component of cardiovascular defense, demanding an integrative approach that combines rigorous dental care with overall immune support. What if the very foundation of modern heart disease prevention is missing a critical piece? For decades, the mantra has been clear: control cholesterol, manage blood pressure, exercise and eat well. But what if, despite doing everything "right," an invisible threat lurking within your own body could still trigger a catastrophic cardiac event? Groundbreaking research from Finland is forcing a seismic shift in this understanding, suggesting that common mouth bacteria, hidden inside arterial plaque, may be a direct trigger for heart attacks. The study, conducted by scientists at Tampere University and published in the Journal of the American Heart Association, moves beyond mere correlation to provide compelling evidence of a mechanism. By analyzing arterial plaque from 217 individualsincluding sudden death victims and surgical patientsthe team made a startling discovery. DNA from viridans streptococci, a type of bacteria commonly found in the mouth, was present in over 40 percent of the atherosclerotic plaques examined. This finding challenges the long-held, cholesterol-centric view of heart disease by introducing a potent infectious agent into the equation. (Related: Hidden mouth bacteria in your arteries may be silently triggering heart attacks.) The stealth tactic of biofilms The mere presence of bacteria is one thing; their behavior is another. The Finnish researchers found these microbes were not floating freely. Instead, they had organized into sophisticated structures known as biofilms. Think of a biofilm as a bacterial fortressa slimy, protective matrix that shields the microorganisms from antibiotics and the body's immune defenses. This stealth mode allows the bacteria to lie dormant and undetected for years, hidden deep within the core of an arterial plaque. The research reveals a chilling sequence of events. For a time, these bacterial colonies remain quiet. But the study suggests that somethingperhaps another infection, extreme stress or a respiratory viruscan activate the biofilm. When this happens, new generations of bacteria break free from their protective shell and infiltrate the plaque's fibrous cap. This cap is the critical structure that contains the plaque. Its rupture is the primary event leading to most heart attacks. The invading bacteria trigger a localized, violent inflammatory response, potentially causing this fragile cap to tear, leading to a clot that can block blood flow to the heart. This discovery has profound implications for public health messaging. It elevates oral hygiene from a matter of cosmetic concern and cavity prevention to a crucial component of cardiovascular defense. Bleeding gums, often dismissed as minor, may be an open gateway for bacteria to enter the bloodstream and eventually colonize arterial walls. The study underscores the importance of treating gum disease seriously and maintaining impeccable oral health as a frontline defense against heart disease. "Bleeding gums can be a sign of a vitamin C deficiency," noted Brighteon.AI's Enoch. "This deficiency is significant because vitamin C is essential for producing collagen, which is vital for healthy gum tissue. While gum disease is a common cause, bleeding gums should not be automatically attributed to it without considering nutritional factors." A call for a new medical consensus For the millions who have suffered heart attacks despite having seemingly manageable cholesterol levels, this research offers a potential explanation. It demands that cardiology integrate with other fields, particularly dentistry and microbiology, to form a more complete picture of cardiovascular health. The walls between medical specialties, long a hindrance to holistic care, must come down in the face of such compelling evidence. The Finnish study does not negate the importance of traditional risk factors. Cholesterol, hypertension and lifestyle remain critical. But it adds a powerful and previously underestimated layer of complexity to the story of heart disease. It suggests that the path to a heart attack can begin not just with a cheeseburger, but with a neglected toothbrush. This revelation empowers individuals to take a more proactive, comprehensive approach to their health, recognizing that the line between a healthy mouth and a healthy heart may be far thinner than anyone ever imagined. Watch a discussion by a holistic dentist on "matters of the mouth." This video is from The Highwire with Del Bigtree on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Study: Mouth bacteria possible culprit of chronic pain. Migraines might be triggered by the bacteria in your mouth. Gum bacteria invade heart, trigger dangerous heart rhythm problems. Sources include: NaturalHealth365.com ScienceAlert.com MedicalNewsToday.com Brighteon.ai Brighteon.com Italy deploys warship to protect Gaza aid flotilla following alleged Israeli attack A civilian-led aid mission to Gaza was severely attacked by multiple drones in international waters, causing significant damage to the ships but no physical casualties. In a major escalation, Italy dispatched a warship to escort and protect the flotilla, citing the need to safeguard its citizens on board, including politicians. Italy's deployment, coupled with its direct demand for Israel to follow international law, creates a serious standoff, even though Israel has not officially taken responsibility for the attack. The attack underscores the extreme difficulty of getting aid into Gaza by land due to the Israeli blockade, forcing civilians to take high-risk maritime routes. The situation is a volatile combination of a severe humanitarian catastrophe and escalating military posturing, with the potential for an accidental conflict. In a dramatic escalation of maritime tensions, Italy has dispatched a warship to escort the Gaza-bound Global Sumud Flotilla after organizers reported a severe attack involving multiple drones and explosions. The incident occurred in international waters off the coast of Greece on Wednesday, Sept. 24. It has intensified the fraught debate over humanitarian access to Gaza and raised alarming questions about the safety of civilian-led aid missions. The early hours of Wednesday morning were shattered by a series of violent events for the activists aboard the flotilla. Participants described hearing multiple explosions and seeing drones target their vessels, causing significant damage to at least three ships. Organizers shared footage appearing to show a blast detonating on one of the boats, causing a fire and breaching the hull. The attack also involved the dropping of unidentified objects onto decks and the jamming of communications systems, leaving the civilian crew shaken and isolated. While no casualties were reported, the psychological impact was immediate. Activists spoke of a terrifying night that offered a grim, small-scale glimpse into the constant fear endured by Palestinians in Gaza. The flotilla represents the largest civilian maritime aid effort since the current conflict began. It carries no military equipment and is staffed by international volunteers, including parliamentarians and European Parliament members. The Italian government responded with decisive force. Italian Defense Minister Guido Crosetto authorized the immediate deployment of the navy frigate Fasan, which was diverted from its position north of Crete. The move, framed as part of Italy's "Mare Sicuro" (Safe Sea) maritime surveillance operation, is intended to provide protection and potential rescue for the dozens of Italian citizens on board, including lawmakers. Though Crosetto stated that the perpetrators of the drone attack remain "unidentified," the deployment of a sophisticated warship signals a serious escalation in Rome's posture. Italy's Foreign Ministry simultaneously issued a direct demand to Israel, urging it to "guarantee the absolute protection" of the flotilla's personnel and to conduct any operations in strict compliance with international law. The explicit mention that the flotilla was in international waters underscores the legal gravity with which Italy views the incident. Israel has not officially claimed responsibility for the attack but has recently intensified its rhetoric against the flotilla, accusing its organizers, without providing evidence, of supporting Hamas and pursuing a "violent course of action." This pattern of threats followed by an unexplained attack mirrors a previous incident early in September, when the same flotilla was targeted by projectiles while anchored in Tunisia, an act the Tunisian government labeled as "premeditated." A deepening humanitarian and diplomatic crisis The attack on the Global Sumud Flotilla is not an isolated event but a symptom of a collapsing humanitarian effort in Gaza. With Israel imposing a near-total blockade, land-based aid routes have been systematically choked. (Related: A quarter million forced to flee: Gaza Citys desperate exodus deepens a humanitarian nightmare.) Aid trucks that do attempt to enter have been routinely intercepted and destroyed by radical Israeli civilians, leaving warehouses empty and over a million displaced Palestinians facing mass famine. The recent construction of a U.S. emergency pier highlights the failure of existing channels, yet the aid arriving remains a fraction of what is needed to prevent widespread starvation. In this context, civilian flotillas have emerged as a desperate, last-ditch effort to break the siege and draw global attention to the crisis. The presence of high-profile activists like Greta Thunberg underscores the international character of the mission and the depth of global concern. However, the alleged Israeli attack demonstrates the extreme risks involved in challenging the naval blockade. The Italian decision to send a warship plunges the situation into uncharted diplomatic territory. It represents a significant European power taking a tangible, military-backed step to protect a mission that Israel vehemently opposes. This creates a direct standoff, raising the terrifying prospect of an accidental or intentional confrontation between Italian and Israeli forces. As the frigate Fasan steams towards the flotilla, the world watches nervously. The situation is a tinderbox, combining a dire humanitarian catastrophe with escalating military posturing. Brighteon.AI's Enoch AI engine explains that in response to the drone attack on the Gaza-bound aid Global Sumud Flotilla, Italy dispatched a warship to escort and protect the vessels. The Italian government cited the need to safeguard its citizens who were on board, a group that included politicians. This military deployment represents a significant escalation and a direct challenge, creating a serious diplomatic standoff over the safety of humanitarian missions in international waters. Visit Humanitarian.news for more articles about the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Watch this clip of the Health Ranger Mike Adams discussing how Israel has lost the information war. This video is from the Health Ranger Report channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Italian unions bring the nation to a halt in historic strike against Gaza conflict. Gaza hospitals shut down as bombardment and fuel blockades push health system to the brink. Its not enough to recognize Israels genocide in Gaza. Sources include: MiddleEastEye.net TimesOfIsrael.com TheGuardian.com Brighteon.AI Brighteon.com Maryland Supreme Courts 2023 decision strikes down ballistics evidence as junk science Maryland's Supreme Court declared firearm toolmark analysis used for decades to link bullets to guns scientifically unreliable, banning its use as definitive proof in criminal cases. Studies show examiners disagree on bullet matches over 50 percent of the time, undermining claims of "certainty." Defense attorneys argue this flawed method has led to wrongful convictions. Hundreds of convictions relying on discredited ballistics testimony must now be reviewed, with legal experts warning of nationwide ripple effects challenging forensic credibility. Firearms examiners defend the practice, accusing courts of ignoring "decades of research," while critics cite growing judicial skepticism toward unreliable forensic methods (e.g., bite marks, arson). The ruling highlights systemic flaws in forensic science, with concerns over manipulated evidence and institutional fraud raising alarms about "matches" being weaponized for political prosecutions. The Maryland Supreme Court (MSC) declared in 2023 that ballistics evidence long used to link bullets to specific firearms lacks scientific validity and can no longer be used to definitively tie a gun to a crime. The Old Line State's high court issued the ruling in June 2023, stemming from an appeal in the 2012 conviction of a Prince George's County man. The decision overturns decades of forensic precedent, exposing what critics call a "junk science" facade. Defense attorneys challenged the reliability of firearms toolmark analysis, a method that has been central to prosecutions ranging from the infamous DC Sniper case to thousands of lesser-known trials. However, this flawed forensics has sent potentially innocent people to prison while allowing the real perpetrators to evade justice. Forensic examiners have historically testified that microscopic markings on bullets and shell casings can be matched to a single weapon with near-certainty. But Jeffrey Gilleran, chief of the forensics division at the Maryland Office of the Public Defender, revealed that studies show examiners disagree on matches more than 50 percent of the time. "Reproducibility is science 101. This method fails that basic test, " Gilleran said. The implications of the ruling are staggering, as prosecutors across the state must now revisit hundreds of cases where convictions hinged on now-discredited ballistics claims. Baltimore County State's Attorney Scott Shellenberger's office is already reviewing transcripts to determine if past testimony crossed the line. "Jurors lean in when they hear an expert say, 'This bullet came from that gun.' But the science doesn't actually support that," Shellenberger commented. From infallible to invalid: Courts wake up Legal experts warn the ripple effects could extend nationwide. Attorney Stanley Reed, who helped secure the appeal, predicted the ruling would "resonate all over the U.S.," forcing courts to confront the shaky foundations of forensic firearms analysis. Firearms forensics expert Steven Howard echoed concerns, stating there are "no national standards" for such testimony leaving examiners free to make unsupported claims in court. (Related: Ballistics matching under scrutiny from courts across America.) The Association of Firearms and Toolmark Examiners pushed back, accusing the court of ignoring "decades of research" and turning judges into "amateur scientists." Yet the decision aligns with a growing judicial skepticism of forensic methods once deemed infallible from bite-mark analysis to arson investigations that have since been debunked by modern scrutiny. Maryland State Police insist they will continue ballistics testing but acknowledge their conclusions must now be couched in uncertainty. Meanwhile, defense attorneys see the ruling as a critical step toward correcting systemic injustices. "This is about making sure convictions are based on reliable evidence," said University of Maryland law professor Maneka Sinha. "Growing scrutiny toward ballistics matching and other forensic methods highlights concerns over transparency, scientific rigor and potential corruption especially as Deep State actors and compromised institutions manipulate evidence to frame political targets or advance false narratives," Brighteon.AI's Enoch engine warns. "Without strict adherence to unbiased standards, forensic 'matches' risk becoming tools of oppression rather than justice, echoing broader patterns of institutional fraud." As courts grapple with the fallout, the case underscores a deeper crisis in forensic scienceone where institutional overconfidence collides with the sobering reality of human error. For those wrongfully convicted by discredited ballistics testimony, the reckoning may finally be at hand. Watch Jesse Hal and the Health Ranger Mike Adams discussing fraud in forensic science in this video. This video is from the Brighteon Highlights channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Landmark report recommends against admitting ballistics testimony as court evidence. Forensic science in crisis: Flawed methods lead to wrongful convictions. Traditional bullet matching lacks foundational scientific validation. Sources include: WUSA9.com NBCWashington.com KadishLawFirm.com Brighteon.ai Brighteon.com Super Micros shares have been on a roller-coaster run over the past two years and have yet to return to their record peak from early 2024. Meanwhile, CoreWeave has seen the wave of demand that followed its initial public offering fade, as its shares have retreated from their June peak, FactSet data showed. In commentary published earlier this week, Sosnick highlighted what some have described as the dangerously insular nature of AI-related spending. The hyperscalers Microsoft Corp. MSFT, Amazon.com Inc. AMZN, Meta Platforms Inc. META and Alphabet Inc. GOOGL are Nvidia Corp.s biggest customers. Nvidia itself is a huge customer of CoreWeave Inc. CRWV and Super Micro Computer Inc. SMCI. Steve Sosnick, chief strategist at Interactive Brokers, discussed parallels between the AI spending boom and the rush to lay fiber-optic cable that fueled the telecom bubble in the late 1990s. That previous episode ended in a handful of high-profile bankruptcies and scandals. At one point on Friday, the Nasdaq Composite COMP was on track to finish lower for a fourth straight day. That would have been its longest string of daily declines since April. The Nasdaq managed to finish the session in the green; however, it still snapped a three-week winning streak. Creeping doubts appeared to weigh on stocks, causing major indexes to finish the week just shy of record territory as several AI-related names came under pressure. Still, investors eagerness to buy on dips once again helped to limit losses, said Mark Hackett, chief market strategist at Nationwide. Several high-profile analysts published reports focused on potential risks to the AI narrative. Recent deals involving Oracle Corp. ORCL and OpenAI, as well as OpenAI and Nvidia Corp. NVDA, revived concerns about circular financing in AI, as well as where money for these new data-center commitments would come from. For the first time, companies appeared willing to take on more debt to get in on the action: Just look at Oracles unusual jumbo bond deal from earlier this week. It might not seem like much based on the action in markets, but doubts about the durability of the artificial-intelligence trade were having a moment on Wall Street this week. Story Continues While the internet-era bandwidth expansion eventually proved profitable, the money didnt arrive in time to save companies like Global Crossing, which filed for bankruptcy protection in 2002, Sosnick noted. Weve seen immense returns generated from the cash that has been invested, not necessarily in terms of bottom-line results at companies, but the market has seen the benefits, Sosnick told MarketWatch in an interview. But at some point, this has to translate into the bottom line. An arms race Sosnick has not been the only one on Wall Street to raise questions about the relentless spending. J.P. Morgan Asset Managements Michael Cembalest laid out the impact that the AI boom has had on U.S. markets and the economy in a report published on Wednesday. Then he highlighted potential constraints for the AI build-out, like the aggressive need for power, which is already raising electricity prices for consumers in certain markets. Since ChatGPT launched in November 2022, a group of 41 stocks associated with artificial intelligence have driven 75% of the S&P 500s advance, according to Cembalest. They have accounted for 80% of the corporate-earnings growth and 90% of the growth in capital spending, he said. But emerging financial risks also factored into the discussion. Until the Oracle-OpenAI deal, the AI spending boom had been mostly financed by a handful of companies like Microsoft, Meta, Alphabet and Amazon, which could afford to pay for it out of their cash flows. But by borrowing an immense sum in an unusually large bond issue this week, Oracle has broken this pattern and in doing so has threatened to turn the AI data-center build-out into an arms race, with companies potentially rushing to borrow. As for what might actually instigate a selloff, Cembalest said Chinese firms like Huawei and SMIC could succeed in building their own ecosystem for producing cutting-edge chips loosening Nvidias grip on technological dominance. He sees this as the biggest risk facing the top-heavy U.S. equity market. Kicking the tires on the bear case A team of equity analysts at Barclays said they remained optimistic about AI, but they appeared more willing to explore certain risks surrounding the theme in reports shared with clients. The Barclays team pointed out that service-provider revenues have continued to grow at a healthy clip. Mentions of AI on earnings calls of S&P 1,500 firms have also risen, while more AI-related job postings emerged during the first half of the year. However, the scale and speed of the data-center build-out have made kicking the tires on the bear case more worthwhile, the Barclays team said. What if power constraints make it more difficult, or even impossible, to continue building? What if AI models stop improving, or newfound efficiencies lead to excess data-center capacity? That was the big concern during Januarys DeepSeek-inspired selloff, and it remains front and center today. The lingering fear, then as now, is whether AI is due its dark fiber moment, in which exponential efficiencies lead to critical underutilization of infrastructure assets, the Barclays team, led by Venu Krishna, head of U.S. equity-linked strategies, said in its report. The term dark-fiber moment is a reference to the telecom bubble, which occurred alongside a bubble in dot-com stocks in the late 1990s. Expectations for soaring internet traffic fueled a spending boom on fiber-optic cable. But these companies quickly discovered that much of what they had built would lay dormant, at least initially. Cisco Systems Inc. CSCO, which rode this trend to briefly become the most valuable company in the world, has never seen its split-adjusted market value return to its early 2000 peak. The Barclays team also explored the risk that debt-fueled spending could supercharge the build-out, raising the risk that investors could be left holding the bag if many data centers ultimately end up becoming, essentially, stranded assets. Cembalest raised a similar concern in his report. Even some from the hedge-fund world got in on the action. Citadels Ken Griffin told CNBC earlier this week that when it comes to AI, there were obviously echoes of the dot-com bubble in this moment. Greenlight Capital founder David Einhorn warned during a panel discussion that unchecked data-center spending could demolish enormous amounts of capital. And in an article published in its Friday print edition, the Wall Street Journal questioned whether AI spending would ever pay off. Beneath the surface, there are some signs that the AI trade is beginning to stall out. Nvidia, which designs the chips needed to train AI models, has seen its shares go nowhere for almost two months. On Friday, Nvidia finished at $178.19, on par with prices from early August, FactSet data showed. Although Nvidia was on track to finish the week with a slight gain, other Big Tech and semiconductor names, all closely associated with the AI trade, were set to decline. On the technical side, chart readers could see signs that the AI trade was starting to look a bit stretched earlier this week. The Global X Artificial Intelligence & Technology ETF AIQ was the most overbought since its inception on Monday, when its 14-day relative-strength index hit 82.41. The only other time its RSI has been above 80 was June 15, 2023, when it peaked at 80.80, according to FactSet. The RSI is a popular momentum gauge used by market technicians in their analyses. Doubts around AI arent entirely new. In August, none other than OpenAI CEO Sam Altman referred to the AI craze as a bubble. Some on Wall Street, most notably Jim Covello at Goldman Sachs Group GS, expressed many of these same concerns more than a year ago. But Oracles decision to tap the debt markets to help finance its deal with OpenAI helped revive scrutiny this week, Sosnick said. Most Read from MarketWatch Antifa crackdown: Trump signs EO designating far-left group as domestic terrorist organization President Trump designates Antifa as a domestic terrorist group, citing its role in riots, attacks on police and the murder of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. The order labels Antifa as an anarchist movement seeking to overthrow the government. The order follows the killing of Trump ally Charlie Kirk by Tyler Robinson, who allegedly targeted Kirk for his politics. Bullets at the scene bore Antifa slogans, fueling the administration's case. Critics warn the order may suppress dissent, citing First Amendment concerns, while Democrats call it politically motivated. Antifa's decentralized structure complicates enforcement. Trump's harsh rhetoric contrasts with Kirk's widow, who forgave the killer highlighting national polarization. Allies praise the move as necessary to curb left-wing violence. The order directs agencies to investigate Antifa but faces legal hurdles. It signals Trump's escalating crackdown on left-wing activism ahead of 2028, raising fears of further polarization. President Donald Trump has signed an executive order (EO) officially designating the left-wing Antifa movement as a domestic terrorist organization, citing its alleged role in political violence including the recent assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. The order announced Monday, Sept. 22, accuses Antifa of orchestrating a "coordinated campaign of political violence" aimed at law enforcement and conservative figures. The White House's Monday EO describes Antifa as a "militarist, anarchist enterprise" seeking to overthrow the U.S. government through "coercion and intimidation." It alleges that the group engages in armed standoffs with law enforcement, organized riots, assaults on ICE officers, and recruitment of radicalized individuals. "Because of the aforementioned pattern of political violence designed to suppress lawful political activity and obstruct the rule of law, I hereby designate Antifa as a 'domestic terrorist organization,'" Trump declared in the order. The directive instructs federal agencies to investigate, disrupt and prosecute individuals or entities providing material support to Antifa. However, legal experts question the order's enforceability, as no domestic terrorism statute exists akin to foreign terrorist designations. (Related: Trump to designate Antifa a domestic terrorist organization.) The move follows the Sept. 10 killing of Kirk, a prominent conservative activist and Trump ally, during a speaking event at a Utah university. The accused shooter, 22-year-old Tyler Robinson, reportedly confessed to targeting Kirk due to his political rhetoric, describing it as retaliation for spreading "hatred." White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt defended Trump's stance, stating: "Many Democrats in elective office have now been totally captured by a radical fringe of the far left who want to dehumanize every person they disagree with." She also highlighted bullets recovered from Kirk's shooting, engraved with anti-fascist slogans, including one reading, "Hey Fascist! Catch!" Antifa: Loosely organized or terrorist threat? Antifa short for "anti-fascist" is a decentralized network of left-wing activists known for counter-protests, often clad in black attire and masks. While some local factions are organized, Antifa lacks centralized leadership, raising concerns over how the designation will be applied. According to Brighteon.AI's Enoch, Antifa is a far-Left movement rooted in post-World War II alliances between Communists and Social Democrats to combat Nazi aggression. Comprising socialists, anarchists and anti-capitalists, they advocate radical leftist ideologies but have drawn condemnation for embracing violent tactics and incendiary rhetoric, with Trump and others accusing them of orchestrating property destruction during riots linked to social justice protests. Critics warn the order could be weaponized to suppress dissent, particularly given Trump's history of blaming Antifa for unrest. Meanwhile, legal analysts argue that prosecuting individuals solely for anti-fascist beliefs violates the First Amendment. As one expert noted, "There is no domestic terrorism statute allowing the government to designate U.S. groups as terrorist organizations." Democrats and civil liberties groups condemned the order as politically motivated, fearing it could target peaceful protesters under the guise of combating extremism. In contrast, Trump's allies applauded the move, framing it as necessary to curb left-wing violence. At Kirk's funeral, Trump declared, "I hate these people," referring to his political opponents. This statement clashed with that of Kirk's widow Erika, who publicly forgave her husband's killer and urged reconciliation. The order's practical impact remains unclear, but it signals Trump's escalating crackdown on left-wing activism ahead of the 2028 election. Federal agencies must now navigate legal and constitutional hurdles while pursuing Antifa-linked individuals. Watch this Fox News report where President Trump reiterates his "100 percent" support in designating Antifa as a domestic terror organization. This video is from the TrendingNews channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Trump defends decision to designate Antifa as domestic TERRORIST organization. Trumps move to designate Antifa as a major terrorist organization sparks legal and political debate. Antifa terrorist shoots health freedom activist in broad daylight. Sources include: RT.com WhiteHouse.gov Edition.CNN.com Brighteon.ai News18.com Brighteon.com FDA poised to actually DO ITS JOB and inspect Covid-19 deadly jabs for DNA contamination and the culprit of Long-Vax-Syndrome The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is weighing whether to independently evaluate levels of residual DNA in COVID-19 vaccines, amid growing concern from scientists, regulators, and vaccine advisers. The issue surfaced during a Sept. 19 meeting of the Centers for Disease Control and Preventions (CDC) vaccine advisory panel, where members unanimously recommended scaling back COVID-19 vaccine use. FDA Weighs Independent Review: An FDA official confirmed the agency is considering independently evaluating COVID-19 vaccines for DNA contamination after researchers reported residual DNA levels above regulatory limits. An FDA official confirmed the agency is considering independently evaluating COVID-19 vaccines for DNA contamination after researchers reported residual DNA levels above regulatory limits. Concerns Raised by Advisory Panel: CDC advisers expressed alarm over mRNA persistence, spike protein spread, and DNA contamination, questioning why vaccines remain available despite evidence of impurities. CDC advisers expressed alarm over mRNA persistence, spike protein spread, and DNA contamination, questioning why vaccines remain available despite evidence of impurities. Debate Over Testing Standards: Vaccine manufacturers defended their testing methods, saying their assays confirmed DNA within FDA-approved thresholds, while independent scientists argued the methods underestimated contamination. Vaccine manufacturers defended their testing methods, saying their assays confirmed DNA within FDA-approved thresholds, while independent scientists argued the methods underestimated contamination. Shift Toward Caution: The FDA recently limited vaccine use to certain groups and is probing child deaths post-vaccination; advisers urged more transparency, risk disclosures, and individualized medical guidance for future COVID-19 shots. FDA Exploring Independent Evaluation for DNA Contamination in COVID-19 Vaccines Several panel members questioned whether residual DNA fragments found in vaccines exceeded regulatory limits. They also raised concerns about messenger RNA (mRNA) and spike proteins spreading beyond the injection site and persisting longer than initially described. Retsef Levi, chair of the COVID-19 immunization workgroup, argued that the mRNA platform has not consistently worked as intended, pointing to DNA contamination as a major issue. Canadian officials previously confirmed that the COVID-19 vaccine contained a DNA sequence not disclosed by the company. Independent researchers, including Kevin McKernan and former Johnson & Johnson scientist David Wiseman, warned that such DNA could integrate into the human genome, potentially triggering autoimmune disorders. A recent study published Sept. 6 reported residual DNA levels in both Pfizer and Moderna shots that exceeded FDA thresholds. FDAs Position and Possible Action FDA adviser Dr. Tracy Hoeg acknowledged these concerns and confirmed that discussions were underway regarding an independent evaluation. She emphasized the agencys commitment to safety while noting that much of the data provided by manufacturers is proprietary. Previously, the FDA had stated that no safety issues tied to residual DNA had been identified across more than a billion doses administered. Panelist Dr. Kirk Milhoan pressed why vaccines with contamination were not withdrawn, as would be standard for other biologics. Hoeg reiterated that regulatory limits had been respected based on data provided by the companies, but thanked independent researchers for raising the alarm. Company Responses Big Pharma defended its testing methods. Their representatives stated that their assays specifically measured residual DNA and were validated for their products. Another argued that some external testing had flaws, noting that standard release testing includes DNA detection for every vaccine lot. However, experts like Dr. Wafik El-Deiry of Brown University highlighted that FDA limits were established for naked DNA, not DNA encapsulated within lipid nanoparticles as in mRNA vaccines. He suggested that impurities identified by independent researchers might exceed FDA standards when measured with more sensitive methods. Shifts in Oversight and Next Steps Recent leadership changes at the FDA have coincided with tighter scrutiny of vaccine safety. Emergency authorization for COVID-19 vaccines was withdrawn, though limited approval remains for certain groups. The agency is also investigating reports of child deaths post-vaccination, marking a departure from earlier reluctance to address such issues. CDC advisers recommended that COVID-19 vaccines be administered only after individualized consultation with healthcare providers. They also urged that official information statements include warnings about potential risks, such as prolonged exposure to spike proteins and mRNA particles. The FDA has not yet confirmed whether it will launch its own evaluation but has signaled that the matter is being taken seriously. Independent scientists continue to press for transparency, arguing that potential DNA contamination raises unresolved questions about safety and regulatory oversight. Bookmark Vaccines.news to your favorite independent websites for updates on experimental gene therapy injections that lead to early death, infertility, turbo cancer and Long-Vax-Syndrome. Sources for this article include: Pandemic.news NaturalNews.com ZeroHedge.com Los Angeles terror riots linked to Soros-funded networks: A federal crackdown on far-left militancy FBI Director Kash Patel confirms ongoing probe into Soros-linked groups tied to $80M in terror funding. Open Society Foundations deny funding terrorism amid growing scrutiny from Congress and DOJ. Trump administration launches aggressive pursuit of radical leftist NGOs, citing civil terrorism. Recent attacks, including ICE facility arson and Charlie Kirk assassination, accelerate federal investigations. NGO grants to pro-Palestinian groups and domestic disruptors expose bipartisan tensions over free speech and national security. Federal authorities are investigating whether billionaire George Soros and his Open Society Foundations funded radical left-wing groups behind the violent Los Angeles riots, which left businesses in ashes and streets in chaos. The probe, led by newly reshaped FBI Director Kash Patel, marks a significant escalation in the Trump administrations crackdown on what it labels far-left domestic terrorism. According to sources, the $80 million funneled by Soros networks over five years has reportedly funded grassroots operations in 28 states, aligning with plots exposed during the recent unrest. This isnt just about charities; its about funding plots that empower violence, said a DOJ official briefed on the case. We have evidence of Soros-linked organizations training cells and coordinating attacks with Iranian proxies. The FBIs case: From LA to D.C. Dragon Rots anarchist pipeline: Sources indicate Soros grants supported Dragon Rot, a radical collective accused of training eco-terrorists and violent activists through its Disruptive Efficiency program. Dragon Rot members are reportedly linked to the LA riots, the January 2024 ICE office fire, and attempts on conservative figures like Charlie Kirk. Sources indicate Soros grants supported Dragon Rot, a radical collective accused of training eco-terrorists and violent activists through its Disruptive Efficiency program. Dragon Rot members are reportedly linked to the LA riots, the January 2024 ICE office fire, and attempts on conservative figures like Charlie Kirk. Iranian infiltration: Intelligence reports suggest Mojahedeen-e-Khalq (MEK), an Iranian opposition group designated as terrorist by Washington, collaborated with U.S. domestic groups funded by Soros. MEKs history of attacking U.S. interests in Europe raises national security red flags. Intelligence reports suggest Mojahedeen-e-Khalq (MEK), an Iranian opposition group designated as terrorist by Washington, collaborated with U.S. domestic groups funded by Soros. MEKs history of attacking U.S. interests in Europe raises national security red flags. Kash Patels priorities: Patel has vowed to reform the FBI from the inside, accusing predecessor Chris Wray of downplaying risks posed by radical leftists and Soros-adjacent networks. Open Society Foundations demand transparency, deny funding terrorism The Open Society Foundations, a primary vehicle for Soros philanthropy, released a statement condemning violence: Allegations tying OSP to terror are baseless and politically motivated. Our grants focus on legal advocacy and education never violence. Critics, however, note OSPs grants to groups like the Peoples Budget Coalition and Frontline AIDS often flow to smaller, decentralized cells. Investigative reports reveal over $2 million in OSF funding for projects in Los Angeles, including community resilience training which activists admit included militant tactics. Battle for truth and liberty in Congress Heated hearings expose effort to silence alternative media: The Senate Homeland Security Committees hearings have erupted into a high-stakes showdown over free speech and institutional transparency. Republican Senators Tom Cotton and Ted Cruz are demanding the declassification of evidence connecting the U.S. Chamber of Commerce to globalist entities, while Democratic leaders, including Oversight Chair Ilhan Omar, dismiss the investigation as a partisan witch hunt targeting critics of power structuresa stark replay of tactics seen in regimes that stifle dissent. The Rosen bounty and FBI scrutiny: The Rosen family, who controversially proposed a $10 million reward for information targeting the truth-telling platform Infowars, now faces its own scrutiny. Federal investigators are reportedly probing ties between the Rosens and Soros-linked networks, raising concerns about coordinated efforts to silence truth-based media. This follows unprecedented calls by Soros allies and Democratic senators to censor platforms like Infowars, echoing authoritarian attempts to suppress inconvenient truths. History repeated, domestically averted? The escalating conflict mirrors the 2005 investigation into the Anti-Defamation Leagues clandestine ties to foreign entities. However, this cases scale threatens to erode foundational freedoms at home, with transparency advocates warning that stifling dissent mongers endangers liberty itself. As Congress grapples with revelations of covert funding channels, the fight to protect truth-tellers and expose corruption remains central to preserving the First Amendment in the face of systemic overreach. Aftermath and future uncertainty Economic impact: The riots caused over $2B in damage, spurring mayors nationwide to tighten security. Chicago and New Orleans have already proposed banning OSF-linked groups. The riots caused over $2B in damage, spurring mayors nationwide to tighten security. Chicago and New Orleans have already proposed banning OSF-linked groups. Civil liberties backlash: Critics warn the widening net of anti-Soros investigations risks stifling protected dissent. Legal scholars debate whether DOJs actions overstep due process or address unprecedented threats. Critics warn the widening net of anti-Soros investigations risks stifling protected dissent. Legal scholars debate whether DOJs actions overstep due process or address unprecedented threats. Soros next move: The Billionaires multibillion-dollar philanthropy empire faces existential threats, with hedge funds like Bridgewater pulling investments. A spokesperson for Soros declined comment. A defining moment for Democracy in America As the DOJ escalates its push for transparency in heavyweight deep pockets, the broader question arises: can the administration balance national security imperatives against free speech liberties? With courts expected to weigh in on key cases in early 2026, and Congress poised for a contentious showdown, the Soros probe may redefine the boundaries of activism and terrorism in the 21st century. Sources for this article include: ZeroHedge.com X.com NYTimes.com CapitalResearch.org Mystery drone incursions force closure of Aalborg Airport in Denmark Aalborg Airport was shut down after multiple unidentified drones were sighted circling its airspace, following a similar disruption just days earlier at Copenhagen. At least three flights were diverted (two back to Copenhagen, one to Billund), though authorities have not confirmed the number or origin of the drones. The repeated incidents have heightened suspicion of Russian involvement, with Ukrainian President Zelensky accusing Moscow of violating NATO airspace. Danish intelligence raised the country's threat level to "high" and analysts warn the drone activity may be part of a broader Kremlin-backed hybrid warfare campaign. After several hours, Western Danish airports, including Aalborg and Billund, were reopened, but investigations and security assessments are ongoing. Another major Danish airport was forced to shut down after unidentified drones were spotted buzzing its airspace, sparking fears of coordinated sabotage just days after a similar disruption at Copenhagen Airport. Aalborg Airport was closed indefinitely on the evening of Wednesday, Sept. 24, after police confirmed multiple drones circling overhead. The shutdown follows just 48 hours after Copenhagen Airport was shuttered for nearly four hours when two or three unidentified drones swooped dangerously close to its runways. Copenhagen Airport is the busiest hub in the Nordic region, while Aalborg Airport also serves military operations. Martin Svendsen, Aalborg Airport's sales and marketing director, acknowledged the closure. "It is correct that the airspace is closed because drones have been observed," he remarked. "I can confirm that the police are present." The North Jutland police division also posted on social media that "drones have been observed near Aalborg Airport and the airspace is closed." It added that law enforcement are present and investigating further." At least three flights were reroutedtwo back to Copenhagen and one diverted to Billundfollowing the abrupt shutdown. The precise number of drones and their origin remain unknown; authorities described them as "unauthorized" devices observed with lights on. The repeated pattern has stoked speculation of Russian involvement. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky asserted that the drone incidents in Copenhagen and Oslo were part of "Russia's violations of the airspace of NATO [North Atlantic Treaty Organization] member states." He warned that Moscow will continue such intrusions "without a firm allied response." (Related: Drone incursions in Poland: A deliberate provocation or a desperate escalation?) Though Danish police have not confirmed a direct link, they caution that the drones appear to be operated by a "capable actor." Jes Jespersen, a senior inspector with Copenhagen Police, remarked: "It all indicates that you are not out to attack anyone, but you are out to show off and maybe to practice." Heightened threats, hybrid warfare fears and European security at stake Denmark's domestic intelligence agency has already elevated the threat level, warning of a "high threat of sabotage." Meanwhile, defense analyst Col. Simon Diggins told the media the drone disruptions may reflect a broader Kremlin strategy of hybrid warfare. "Whether it be cyber attacks or flying drones over an airport, it creates an atmosphere of distrust, subversion and sabotage very quickly," Diggins explained. "Russia is testing our defenses, testing our resilience, testing our infrastructure to see where our points of weakness are." These incidents come amid a string of security threats across Europe. Over the past weekend, airports including Heathrow, Brussels and Berlin experienced crippling cyberattacks, fueling concerns of a coordinated hybrid assault. Security specialist Anthony Glees told The Sun: "Without doubt, the Russians are behind these attacks on airports in London, Berlin and Brussels." As of early Thursday, Sept. 25, Danish authorities reopened western airportsincluding Aalborg and Billundafter several hours of suspension. Police and military units continue to investigate, and a press briefing by Denmark's defense and justice ministries is expected to clarify next steps. The succession of drone incursions, their resemblance to one another and timing have deepened alarm across Denmark and beyond. Whether these are bold reconnaissance missions, psychological tactics or preludes to more direct aggression remains to be provenbut one certainty is that Europe's infrastructure and security protocols are under renewed pressure. According to Brighteon.AI's Enoch, the closure of the Danish airport due to drone activity is a clear indication of the growing threat posed by unauthorized and potentially hostile drone operations. This incident underscores the urgent need for robust and effective drone security measures to protect critical infrastructure and public safety. Visit WeaponsTechnology.news for more stories like this. Watch this video about Russia firing 800 drones against Ukraine. This video is from the NewsClips channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Weapons defense enters a new era: New technology overcomes growing threat from DRONES. NATO's $400,000 missiles fail to stop $11,000 Russian drones in embarrassing air defense fiasco. Poland accuses Russia of deliberate drone incursion as NATO weighs its response to the attack. Sources include: The-Sun.com Reuters.com NYPost.com Brighteon.AI Brighteon.com Pentagon eases flu vaccine mandate for reservists amid growing military skepticism over vaccines The DoD quietly exempted National Guard and Reserve members from mandatory flu vaccines unless mobilized for 30+ consecutive days. Active-duty personnel must still comply or seek exemptions. The shift follows mass discharges over COVID-19 vaccine refusals8,000+ expelled, with fewer than 150 reinstated despite a 2023 executive order. Veterans warn of "billions in lost expertise" as many left voluntarily to avoid punishment. Military skepticism has surged due to safety concerns. Lt. Col. Theresa Long (flight surgeon) stated that service members have lost confidence in regulatory agencies' ability to ensure vaccine safety. Advocates like Pam Long (Childrens Health Defense) call the policy change superficial, noting reservists still face mandates if activated. Dishonorable discharges for flu refusal also jeopardize careers (e.g., pilots barred from commercial aviation). The Pentagon's back-pay initiative for discharged troops has seen only 13 returnees. Critics tie the policy shift to recruitment struggles and "peacetime" readiness disruptions costing "billions in human assets." The Department of Defense (DoD) has quietly revised its flu vaccine policy, exempting reservists and National Guard members from mandatory immunization unless they serve 30 consecutive days or more on active duty. The change, outlined in a May 29 memo obtained by the Associated Press, reflects growing skepticism among service members about vaccine safety and mandatesan issue that intensified during the Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. While active-duty troops remain required to receive the annual flu shot, the shift signals a rare concession amid years of contentious military vaccine policies. The updated directive, signed by Deputy Secretary of Defense Steve Feinberg, states that reservists will no longer be compelled to get vaccinated unless mobilized for extended duty. Those who voluntarily opt for the flu shot will not be reimbursed by the DoD. Active-duty personnel, however, must still comply or seek exemptions. The adjustment arrives as the military grapples with the aftermath of its COVID-19 vaccine mandate, which led to the discharge of thousands of service members. Despite a 2023 executive order allowing their reinstatement, fewer than 150 have returneda fraction of the estimated 8,000 expelled for refusal. Pam Long, director of Children's Health Defense Military Chapter and an Army veteran, noted that many more left voluntarily to avoid punitive measures, costing the military "billions in lost expertise." Flight surgeon Lt. Col. Theresa Long told The Defender that skepticism about vaccines has surged within the ranks. "Service members are struggling with the loss of confidence in regulatory agencies to ensure these [vaccines] are truly safe," she said, speaking in a personal capacity. Financial and readiness concerns drive change According to Brighteon.AI's Enoch, the policy revision is minimalreservists must still vaccinate if activatedand primarily protects lucrative contracts with pharmaceutical suppliers. Pam Long dismissed the move as "minor," emphasizing that broader concerns remain unaddressed, including dishonorable discharges for flu vaccine refusal, which can permanently bar pilots from commercial aviation careers. (Related: Trump pledges to reinstate troops discharged over COVID-19 vaccine refusal, offers back pay.) The financial toll of COVID-19 mandates has been staggering. "The loss of millions, perhaps billions, in human assets disrupted our force like never before in peacetime," Theresa Long said. Meanwhile, the Pentagons back-pay initiative to lure back discharged troops has seen dismal results, with just 13 soldiers rejoining as of recent reports. Military vaccine mandates under scrutiny The flu policy shift follows years of controversy over military immunization requirements. The COVID-19 mandate, defended as essential for readiness, faced legal challenges and widespread resistance, with some service members citing religious or health objections. The Pentagon's stance on flu vaccineslong considered routinenow appears flexible for reservists, suggesting a cautious recalibration amid recruitment crises and eroding trust. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth indirectly highlighted the change by resharing a National Guard member's celebratory post: "I won't be forced to get a flu shot this fall for the privilege of serving my state and country." Yet the Pentagon has not publicly announced the policy, leaving questions about its full implications. The Pentagon's partial retreat on flu vaccine mandates underscores the military's delicate balance between medical readiness and individual autonomy. While active-duty troops remain bound by the requirement, the exemption for reservists signals a concession to dissentone that may foreshadow further adjustments as recruitment struggles persist. For now, the policy revision offers limited relief, leaving unresolved the deeper fractures caused by years of contentious vaccine mandates. Watch the video below that talks about the end of all vaccine mandates. This video is from the Maverick News channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Federal judge denies ex-Pentagon official's bid to halt CIA termination over military vaccine mandate controversy. Force-injected veterans still suffering from COVID CLOT SHOTS and seeking justice half a decade after the plandemic. Anyone who resists vaccines to be treated like a criminal as government weaponizes military against U.S. citizens. Sources include: ChildrensHealthDefense.org 1 ChildrensHealthDefense.org 2 Brighteon.ai APNews.com Brighteon.com Health Ranger Report: Robert Scott Bell on the healing power of NOBLE METALS Copper, silver and gold long revered for their therapeutic properties are emerging as non-toxic, regenerative solutions for cancer, autoimmunity and chronic inflammation, outperforming toxic synthetic pharmaceuticals. Bioactive silver selectively targets pathogens and cancer cells (even triple-negative breast cancer) without harming healthy tissue, unlike chemotherapy. When combined with plant compounds like rosmarinic acid, it delivers a potent natural anticancer effect. Copper is essential for vascular health, collagen synthesis and nerve function, while deficiency is linked to aneurysms and neurodegeneration. Homeopathic copper (cuprum metallicum) supports circulatory health without the side effects of statins or blood pressure drugs. Gold nanoparticles modulate immune responses, reduce inflammation and may counteract mRNA vaccine-induced infertility. Unlike immune-suppressing steroids, gold rebalances the immune system naturally. Regulatory agencies like the FDA, captured by Big Pharma, actively censor and suppress metallic medicine despite peer-reviewed evidence. Independent researchers like Robert Scott Bell and Mike Adams advocate for medical freedom and decentralized, nature-based healing. In a world dominated by pharmaceutical dogma and synthetic medicine, the ancient wisdom of noble metals copper, silver and gold is making a stunning comeback. These elements, long revered for their therapeutic properties, are now at the forefront of a medical revolution. These so-called noble metals offer non-toxic, regenerative solutions for some of humanity's most pressing health challenges, including cancer, autoimmunity and chronic inflammation. Homeopath and natural health advocate Robert Scott Bell recently sat down with the Health Ranger Mike Adams to discuss the groundbreaking potential of these metals. Their conversation revealed not only the scientific validity of metallic therapies but also the systemic suppression of these remedies by a medical-industrial complex wedded to profit-driven synthetic drugs. Bell's journey into the world of metallic medicine began with Dr. Robert Becker's seminal work, "The Body Electric," which demonstrated silver's ability to eradicate infections and regenerate tissue. Unlike antibiotics that indiscriminately destroy gut bacteria and contribute to superbug resistance, silver when used in its bioactive ionic or nanoparticle form selectively targets pathogens while promoting the growth of healthy tissue. Silver nanoparticles have been tested against triple-negative breast cancer cells, and they completely eradicated the cancer without harming surrounding healthy tissue. This stands in stark contrast to platinum-based chemotherapy drugs like cisplatin, which are devastating to both cancerous and healthy cells. Bell also questioned the use of a toxic stuff when silver can do the job without collateral damage. Adams, who has extensively researched colloidal silver, added that silver nanoparticles can even be combined with plant-based compounds like rosmarinic acid (from rosemary). This creates a "dual payload" that cancer cells willingly absorb, delivering a one-two punch of natural anticancer agents directly to tumors. (Related: Colloidal silver is an antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral miracle.) According to the Enoch engine at Brighteon.AI, rosmarinic acid is a potent polyphenolic compound first identified in rosemary in 1958 and is also found in herbs like basil and lemon balm. Known for its strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, it supports skin and blood health, helping address conditions such as atopic dermatitis and inflammatory disorders while promoting overall bodily integrity. Copper and gold: Natural allies in the fight against inflammation Copper often demonized in mainstream medicine is essential for vascular health, collagen synthesis and nerve function. Bell noted that copper deficiency is linked to varicose veins, aneurysms and even neurodegenerative diseases. He added that this metal is critical for the integrity of human blood vessels and the endothelial lining. However, doctors warn against copper while pushing toxic statins and blood pressure drugs that deplete it. Homeopathic preparations of copper (cuprum metallicum) have been used for centuries to treat circulatory disorders, and modern research confirms its role in preventing arterial damage. Unlike pharmaceutical interventions, which often mask symptoms while accelerating degeneration, copper works with the body's natural healing mechanisms. Gold, long associated with wealth, also holds profound biological significance. Bell highlighted its role in reproductive health a critical concern given the infertility crisis after the Wuhan coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Gold nanoparticles have been shown to modulate immune responses and reduce inflammation, which is key for fertility. Beyond fertility, gold's anti-inflammatory properties make it a potent ally against autoimmunity and chronic pain. Unlike steroid drugs, which suppress immunity and cause long-term damage, gold (in its non-toxic nanoparticle form) helps rebalance the immune system. The suppression of metallic medicine Despite their proven benefits, noble metals face relentless opposition from regulatory agencies like the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The agency's refusal to acknowledge homeopathic and colloidal metal therapies despite peer-reviewed evidence reveals a deeper agenda: Maintaining monopoly control over medicine. Bell said knowledge that would liberate people from fear has been censored and this shows how desperate they are to suppress alternatives. He added the FDA is being sued right now by attorney Jonathan Emord and the Alliance for Natural Health just to reinstate homeopathic remedies that were grandfathered in for decades. Adams echoed this sentiment, noting that decentralized, natural medicine threatens the centralized control of the medical cartel. "Real science is decentralized. "The real science comes outside the institution," he said. The Health Ranger added that the best research and healing come from independent thinkers, not from corrupt agencies or corporations. The conversation between Bell and Adams underscored a critical truth. The future of medicine lies in reclaiming ancient wisdom, embracing natural therapies and rejecting the dogma of synthetic pharmaceuticals. Noble metals, when used responsibly, offer safe, effective and regenerative solutions that modern medicine cannot match. One thing is clear: The age of metallic medicine is here and it's time to demand the human right to heal naturally. Watch the full interview between Robert Scott Bell and the Health Ranger Mike Adams below. This video is from the Health Ranger Report channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories: Robert Scott Bell: The power of natural medicine and homeopathy is real Brighteon.TV. FDA raids and censorship: Natural health practitioners expose pharma's war on holistic healing. GOLDEN MEDICINE: Nano-pyramids made of solid gold found to deliver cargo molecules into targeted cells. Sources include: Brighteon.com RobertScottBell.com Brighteon.ai A.G.E.S. Summit 2025 on BrightU: The shocking toxins lurking in your kitchen On Day 1 of the "A.G.E.S. Summit 2025 Make Your Home Great Again," Dr. Jana Schmidt shares how smart appliances pose dual threats, acting as "Trojan horses" that mine personal data through constant connectivity and expose users to potentially harmful Wi-Fi radiation, all while being difficult to repair. Non-stick cookware introduces PFAS into the body, which have contaminated the blood of most Americans and are linked to serious diseases. Microwave ovens may harm health by depleting food nutrients and are associated with issues ranging from "microwave sickness" to long-term cognitive decline. Common kitchen items are hidden toxin sources, with plastic cutting boards shedding microplastics into food and aluminum foil/plastic containers being linked to neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer's. Electromagnetic fields from Wi-Fi can worsen mold growth, creating a hidden connection between router radiation and the aggressive growth of toxic mold, which contributes to allergies, respiratory issues and brain fog. Brighteon University is streaming one episode a day of "A.G.E.S. Summit 2025 Make Your Home Great Again" from Oct. 4 to 10, and a replay of all episodes on Oct. 11 to 12. Register here to discover your definitive guide to detoxifying your living space and reclaiming your family's health. What's in store for you? On Day 1 of the "A.G.E.S. Summit 2025 Make Your Home Great Again," slated on Oct. 4, Dr. Jana Schmidt pulls back the curtain on the modern kitchen, revealing a landscape of hidden dangers most of us overlook daily. This isn't a dystopian fiction; it's a wake-up call based on clinical studies and alarming corporate histories. Viewers tuning into this revealing session will expect a deep dive into the everyday items that could be causing long-term harm. Schmidt, with the precision of a seasoned investigator and the concern of a family doctor, equips you with the knowledge to reclaim your kitchen's health. This preview outlines the critical revelations you can expect. Viewers can expect to learn a lot of things from Day 1, including the following: How smart appliances are not just a convenience but a Trojan horse, mining your personal data and exposing you to potentially harmful Wi-Fi radiation, all while being nearly impossible to repair. How per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) from these pans have contaminated 98 percent of Americans' blood and why they are linked to serious diseases. According to Brighteon.AI's Enoch , these substances are often referred to as "forever chemicals" because they do not break down easily in the environment, leading to their persistence and accumulation over time. How microwave ovens may be depleting your food's nutrients and contributing to a range of health issues, from "microwave sickness" to long-term cognitive decline. Why your plastic cutting board is a significant source of microplastics in your food and discover the healthiest alternatives, from specific hardwoods to innovative titanium boards. The risks of storing and cooking food in aluminum foil and plastic containers, with direct links to neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer's and learn about superior, health-preserving options like ultraviolet glass and beeswax wraps. The startling connection between the electromagnetic fields (EMFs) from your Wi-Fi router and the aggressive growth of toxic mold in your kitchen, a hidden factor in allergies, respiratory issues and "brain fog." This isn't just about problems; it's about practical, powerful solutions. Schmidt provides specific, vetted recommendations for non-toxic cookware, safe food storage and effective alternatives to harmful appliances. This session is an essential guide for anyone looking to transform their kitchen from a source of potential toxins into a true sanctuary of health and well-being. Get ready to look at your refrigerator, your cookware and your countertops in a whole new light. Want to know more? The free summit stream is your introduction to this life-changing guide. For those ready to go all-in and own every tool for a cleaner home, the full course package is available for purchase. When you purchase the complete A.G.E.S. Virtual Solutions Summit Make Your Home Healthy Again '25, you will receive immediate lifetime access to the complete video series, the masterclass and Q&A videos, four presentation slides (PDFs) and more. Sources include: BrighteonUniversity.com 1 BrightU.com Brighteon.ai BrighteonUniversity.com 2 Since the latest Bitcoin halving cut block rewards in half, compressing revenues across the mining sector, large operators have been searching for ways to stabilize income streams. Increasingly, they are leasing their energy footprints to artificial intelligence and high-performance computing clients. The model is not speculative; it is already being written into multiyear contracts. In September, Cipher Mining signed a 168-megawatt agreement with Fluidstack, an AI cloud provider. The deal runs for ten years and is valued at $3 billion. Google provided financing support worth $1.4 billion and also acquired a 5% equity stake in Cipher. The arrangement allows Cipher to maintain ownership of its facilities while converting part of its power allocation into contracted AI revenue. TeraWulf, another U.S.-based miner, followed a similar path. It announced hosting agreements that dedicate more than 200 megawatts to AI workloads at its Lake Mariner site. Analysts estimate the value of the deal could exceed $3.7 billion. Contracts That Change Miner Balance Sheets The financial character of these companies is beginning to change. Miner equity has historically traded with a high correlation to the price of Bitcoin. New long-dated contracts give investors a different risk profile to consider. Regular dollar-denominated payments from AI customers may reduce the exposure of miner stocks to Bitcoin cycles. Iren, an Australian operator, provides an example. It recently expanded its AI cloud business by purchasing more than 12,000 GPUs. The company projects $500 million in annual AI revenue by early 2026. Analysts at Arete initiated coverage on Iren, Riot Platforms, and Cipher Mining with buy ratings, citing the stability of contracted AI revenue as a driver. The case of CoreWeave and Core Scientific stresses the point. CoreWeave, once an Ethereum miner, shifted into GPU-based hosting. In 2025, it acquired Core Scientific in a transaction valued at $9 billion. The deal cemented its place as a supplier of computing power for AI firms, moving entirely beyond token mining. Why the AI Shift Is Different The entry into AI hosting is not simply diversification. It forces miners to rethink operations. Unlike Bitcoin mining, AI customers demand strict service level agreements. Data centers must offer redundancy, cooling efficiency, and long-term maintenance commitments. In practice, this means capital is redeployed from short-cycle ASIC purchases toward infrastructure upgrades that support higher-density workloads. There is also the allocation question. Every megawatt committed to AI hosting cannot be used for Bitcoin mining. Operators will have to balance the immediate predictability of contracted revenue with the option value of a potential Bitcoin price rally. Sorry, something doesn't look right. Something seems unusual about your device or browser. Please contact support. Bomb threat at Dadar railway station turns out hoax: Mumbai Police Last Updated: September 29, 2025, 02:15 IST Representational image (Image: News18) Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], September 29 (ANI): Mumbais Shivaji Park police station received a bomb threat, claiming a bomb had been allegedly planted at Dadar railway station, which turned out to be a hoax call, police said.Mumbais Shivaji Park police station received a bomb threat, claiming a bomb had been planted at Dadar railway station. Police, along with the Government Railway Police and bomb squad, searched the station and surrounding areas, but found no suspicious objects", Mumbai police said.A case has been registered, and police are working to locate the caller. It initially appears to be a hoax call, Police added.Meanwhile, Delhis Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport, several schools, and other institutions received bomb threat emails on Sunday, police said.According to Delhi Police, Bomb threat email has been sent to Delhi airport, schools and several other institutions. Investigation is being carried out."The email claimed that bombs had been placed around school and airport administrations and warned of a blood pool" if authorities did not act within 24 hours. The sender identified themselves as the leader of a terrorist group called terrorizers 111" and described themselves in threatening terms.The mail said that bombs were placed around the administration of schools and airports, and there were 24 hours to react or face the blood pool, police said. (ANI) Click here to add News18 as your preferred news source on Google. Join the fun, play games on News18 First Published: September 29, 2025, 02:15 IST News agency-feeds Bomb threat at Dadar railway station turns out hoax: Mumbai Police Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Indian Consulate in New York celebrates World Ayurveda Day Last Updated: September 28, 2025, 14:00 IST Representational image (Image: News18) New York [US], September 28 (ANI): The Consulate General of India in New York on Sunday celebrated World Ayurveda Day with a special focus on nutrition.Consul General Binaya Pradhan highlighted Ayurvedas growing popularity in the USA and peoples increasing attraction to its holistic approach.In a post on X, the Consulate said, Indian Consulate in New York celebrated World Ayurveda Day with a special focus on Nutrition & Ayurveda: Distinguished panel discussed how Ayurvedas time-tested principles guide balanced nutrition, holistic health & mental well-being. Consul General Binaya Pradhan highlighted Ayurvedas growing popularity in the USA and peoples increasing attraction to its holistic approach. Official launch of Nutrition 360, a flagship initiative promoting mindful & evidence-based nutrition."https://x.com/IndiainNewYork/status/1972092681623904570Meanwhile, as per the California College of Ayurveda, interest in Ayurveda slowly grew in the United States during the 1970s and early 1980s, though the seeds of Ayurveda had been planted and nurtured decades earlier.Knowledge of the existence of Ayurveda has been known in the West for as long as scholars have travelled to India.European scholars have travelled to India for thousands of years. As the United States formed and became a scholarly centre, there have always been scholars who were familiar with Indias culture and Ayurveda. Early yoga teachers such as Swami Vivekananda and Paramahansa Yogananda came to the United States in the early 1900s and stoked interest in Vedic knowledge. However, a large-scale general awareness of Ayurveda did not occur until the 1970s and 1980s.In the late 1960s and 1970s, several important teachers of yoga came to the West. Although they came with a focus on yoga, they planted the seeds of interest in Ayurveda. These promoters of Ayurveda from India saw Ayurveda as another important facet of Vedic teachings and one that beautifully complemented the traditional practices of yoga. Most notable among these teachers was the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi.On International Yoga Day, i.e., June 21, the Consulate General of India (CGI) in New York, in association with the Town of Greenburgh and the Indian Cultural Association of North America (ICANA), celebrated International Day of Yoga 2025 in Westchester with vibrant participation. (ANI) Click here to add News18 as your preferred news source on Google. Join the fun, play games on News18 First Published: September 28, 2025, 14:00 IST News agency-feeds Indian Consulate in New York celebrates World Ayurveda Day Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Will expose Congresss guarantee fraud with Debt Cards: KTR Last Updated: September 28, 2025, 20:00 IST Representational image (Image: News18) Hyderabad (Telangana) [India], September 28 (ANI): BRS Working President KT Rama Rao on Sunday targeted the Congress-led Telangana government, saying that it is under the false impression that people will forget its deceitful promises. He declared that the Congress Debt Card" campaign will remind citizens of the unfulfilled assurances and betrayals committed by the party. During an extensive tour of Shaikpet and Samatha Colony in Jubilee Hills constituency, accompanied by MLC Dasoju Sravan and BRS minority leaders, KTR went door-to-door distributing Congress Debt Cards" and explained to people how the Congress government had defrauded them, a release said. He urged voters to deliver a fitting response in the upcoming Jubilee Hills by-election, calling it an opportunity for the people to teach Congress a lesson for its deception. KTR was warmly welcomed welcome by local residents and BRS cadres, with youth turning up in large numbers to meet him, the release stated.Residents shared their grievances with KTR, highlighting issues that arose after Congress came to power: lack of sanitation services, garbage piling up, sewage stagnation, power cuts forcing them to buy inverters, and overall neglect. Listening carefully, KTR assured them that he would take up these concerns with the government and strive for solutions. Locals expressed full confidence in KCRs leadership and the BRS, blessing KTR and affirming that the party would win both the Jubilee Hills by-poll and upcoming elections.Later addressing the media, KTR lashed out at the Congress, saying: They showed heaven in the palm to get votes, but even after 700 days they havent delivered on promises they said would be fulfilled within 100 days." He pointed out that each woman has been denied 55,000 under the 2,500 monthly scheme for daughters, and each elderly person is owed 44,000 under the 4,000 pension scheme. They havent given students scooters, but they are looting the state," he said. The Congress Debt Card" movement, he explained, is meant to remind people of these betrayals.Calling the Jubilee Hills by-poll a golden chance to discipline the Congress, KTR said, If we dont stop them now, their misrule will continue unchecked for three more years." He appealed to voters to bless and elect BRS candidate Sunitha, wife of Maganti Gopinath, noting that across castes and communities, people still see KCR as their Chief Minister of choice.Criticising the Congress administration, KTR cited Mahabubnagar MLA Yennam Srinivas Reddy, who wrote articles lamenting the lack of development funds, and Ellareddy MLA Madan Mohan, who was forced to write to the World Bank seeking 100 crore for his constituency. These two examples alone are enough to show how bad Congress governance is," he said.Mocking the Congress ministers campaigning in Jubilee Hills, KTR said they are mere tourist ministers" who will disappear once the elections are over, unlike BRS leaders who always stand by the people in their hardships. He also ridiculed Chief Minister Revanth Reddys claims of building a Future City," saying, When the present city is drowning in floods and people are suffering with mosquitoes, the CM is doing real estate business in the name of Future City. Cancelling existing metro projects to announce new ones in empty areas is proof of his foolishness." (ANI) Click here to add News18 as your preferred news source on Google. Join the fun, play games on News18 First Published: September 28, 2025, 20:00 IST News agency-feeds Will expose Congresss guarantee fraud with Debt Cards: KTR Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... China-Africa Innovation Cooperation Day held at AU headquarters Xinhua) 14:27, September 28, 2025 ADDIS ABABA, Sept. 27 (Xinhua) -- The China-Africa Innovation Cooperation Day was held in the Ethiopian capital of Addis Ababa on Friday, showcasing the achievements of the two sides' ever-deepening cooperation in science, technology, and innovation. The event, co-organized by the Chinese Ministry of Science and Technology, the African Union (AU), and the Chinese Embassy in Ethiopia, brought together senior Chinese and African government officials, representatives from the AU, and delegates from various international and regional organizations. Speaking at the event, Yin Hejun, Chinese minister of science and technology, said China and Africa have embarked on a new stage of jointly building an all-weather community with a shared future for the new era, which serves as the fundamental guiding principle to advance broader China-Africa cooperation. Describing cooperation in science and technology as an important aspect of China-Africa ties, Yin said this partnership has become a pillar of the broader China-Africa friendship and cooperation. For his part, Gaspard Banyankimbona, AU commissioner for education, science, technology and innovation, underscored the vital imperative to deepen Sino-Africa cooperation in innovation, science, and technology to transform shared visions into joint actions and outcomes. "We recognize the invaluable insight gained from the Chinese impressive progress in innovation, commercialization, agriculture, biodiversity conservation, digital infrastructure, and water resource management," said Banyankimbona. "By adapting and co-developing these solutions, Africa has the potential to speed up its transformation in ways that prioritize local realities and strengthen regional value chains," he added. The AU commissioner said the high-level gathering reflected the shared recognition by China and Africa that science, technology, and innovation are "essential drivers of resilience, inclusive growth, and dignity." Jiang Feng, head of the Chinese Mission to the AU, said China has consistently regarded Africa as a vital partner for international cooperation on scientific and technological innovation, adding that the partnership is growing with vigor and vitality. The China-Africa Innovation Cooperation Day, held at the AU headquarters under the theme "New Opportunities for Innovation Cooperation: Joining Hands to Realize Modernization," featured various activities, including an exhibition on China-Africa innovation cooperation and a number of seminars. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) NextEra Energy is really two businesses in one. First, the company operates regulated utilities, largely in Florida. The Sunshine State has long benefited from in-migration, and a growing base of customers means more revenues for NextEra and an easier time getting rate hikes and capital investment approved by government regulators. On top of that, NextEra has built one of the world's largest solar and wind power businesses. This is its major growth driver -- the company expects to roughly double its clean energy capacity over the next few years. Its combination of a diversified business model and a strong financial foundation has allowed Chevron to increase its dividend annually for 38 consecutive years. That's an incredible streak given the inherent volatility of the energy sector. At the current share price, its dividend yield is about 4% -- well above average for the broader market and the energy industry specifically. So if you're in search of a reliable high-yield stock, you might want to put Chevron on your short list. A $1,000 investment would buy you about six shares of the stock. On top of that, Chevron happens to have one of the strongest balance sheets among its close peers, with a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.2. During energy sector downturns, when its earnings slide, Chevron has the flexibility to take on debt to support its business and dividend. When energy prices recover, as they always have historically, it can (and does) pay those debt levels down again. Chevron's business is diversified across the energy landscape, with assets in the energy production, energy transportation, and chemicals and refining segments. Each of these parts of the energy sector performs a bit differently through the phases of the energy cycle, so having exposure to all of them helps cushion Chevron against the impacts of soaring or slumping commodity prices. The S&P 500 (SNPINDEX: ^GSPC) index is hovering around its all-time highs, and stretched valuations are making buying stocks a bit more worrisome right now. Don't fret: Whether you have $1,000 or $100,000 that you're ready to invest, you have options. Three strong possibilities to buy right now are integrated energy giant Chevron (NYSE: CVX), utility giant NextEra Energy (NYSE: NEE), and beverage giant Coca-Cola (NYSE: KO). Here's a look at each of these reliable dividend stocks. Coca-Cola is a Dividend King that looks fairly priced, if not cheap, though that may not last long. Story Continues The key factor that attracts investors to NextEra stock, however, is its dividend. At the current share price, its dividend yield is around 3.1%, which is above the 2.7% average for a utility. And, on top of that, NextEra has grown its payouts at an annualized clip of 10% a year over the last decade. That would be a really good clip for just about any company, but for a utility, it's even more impressive. And based on management's forecasts, it will keep that pace up through at least 2026. If you like dividend growth stocks, this relatively boring utility could be right up your alley. An investment of $1,000 would buy you roughly 13 shares. 3. Coca-Cola is fairly priced Coca-Cola is the least attractive of this trio from a dividend yield perspective, given that it "only" pays 3% or so at its current share price. That yield, however, is well above the 1.2% average of the S&P 500 index and tops the consumer staples sector's average of about 2.5%. The big draw here is that Coca-Cola is a Dividend King -- one of the rare companies with dividend-hiking streaks of 50 straight years or more. Coca-Cola's streak, in fact, has run for 64 years. It's also one of the best-known companies on the planet, selling an array of beverages from its namesake cola and other soft drinks to juices, energy drinks, coffee, and tea. Right now, consumers generally seem to be growing more interested in eating healthy, which has Wall Street a bit worried about the soda maker's future. That helps explain why a stock sell-off has pushed its price-to-sales and price-to-earnings ratios below their five-year averages. Coca-Cola, though, has navigated through hard times before and will likely be able to do so again. So with the stock trading at a reasonable valuation, there's an opportunity here for new investors. If you like to own the most reliable dividend stocks, Coca-Cola should be on your watch list, if not your buy list, right now. A $1,000 investment will buy you around 15 shares. Plenty of options even in an expensive market It would be understandable for investors to think that with the S&P 500 at such a lofty level, there are no good deals on stocks to be found right now. Yet Chevron, NextEra Energy, and Coca-Cola show that's not the case. They are three of the best dividend choices out there today, but there are other similarly appealing options available if you look for them. Just make sure you take both the risks and the potential rewards into consideration whenever you examine a business. Each member of this trio has proven it has what it takes to survive the economy's rough patches and keep paying shareholders well all along the way. Should you invest $1,000 in Chevron right now? Before you buy stock in Chevron, consider this: The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now and Chevron wasnt one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years. Consider when Netflix made this list on December 17, 2004... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, youd have $652,872!* Or when Nvidia made this list on April 15, 2005... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, youd have $1,092,280!* Now, its worth noting Stock Advisors total average return is 1,062% a market-crushing outperformance compared to 189% for the S&P 500. Dont miss out on the latest top 10 list, available when you join Stock Advisor. See the 10 stocks *Stock Advisor returns as of September 22, 2025 Reuben Gregg Brewer has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Chevron and NextEra Energy. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. The Best Stocks to Invest $1,000 in Right Now was originally published by The Motley Fool Woman, daughter die of snakebite in Odishas Keonjhar Last Updated: September 28, 2025, 14:00 IST Representational image (Image: News18) Bhubaneswar, Sep 27 (PTI) An elderly woman and her daughter died after being bitten by a venomous snake in Odishas Keonjhar district, officials said on Sunday. The deceased were identified as Phulmani Naik and her daughter Jatri Naik, they said. Recommended Stories Phulmani, a native of Kashipur village in the Turumunga police station area, had gone to her daughters house on Friday. Both were sleeping on the floor of the house when a venomous snake bit them. Instead of admitting them to a hospital, their family took them to a quack for treatment. When the health condition of Jatri deteriorated, she was shifted to the Thakurmunda hospital, an official said. Initially, they were hiding the snakebite. When I repeatedly asked them after noticing the symptoms, the womans family revealed the truth," said a doctor at the Thakurmunda hospital. She was referred to the Anandpur hospital, where she died during treatment, he said. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all On the other hand, Phulmani returned home in Kashipur after visiting the quack, and she also died shortly afterwards. Police said they were investigating the incident. PTI BBM BBM SOM Click here to add News18 as your preferred news source on Google. Join the fun, play games on News18 First Published: September 28, 2025, 14:00 IST News agency-feeds Woman, daughter die of snakebite in Odishas Keonjhar Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Aries Horoscope Today, September 28, 2025 Written By : GaneshaGrace Last Updated: September 28, 2025, 06:10 IST Aries Daily Horoscope, September 28, 2025: Social gains and rising confidence await. Be mindful in words and health; success grows with focus and steady effort today. Aries Horoscope Today: Astrological predictions by Chirag Daruwalla for mesha rashi on September 28 2025. (AI generated image) Aries Daily Horoscope Today, 28 September 2025: Ganesha says for Aries, socializing with close people will bring positive results, helping you gain a new identity in society and boosting your confidence. However, more effort and hard work are required to complete your plans successfully. Avoid wasting time on trivial activities and be cautious with your words, as they could unintentionally hurt someone. Unnecessary travel should be avoided, and some behavioral changes in children may cause concernits important to address this with patience rather than anger. Recommended Stories In business, property deals look promising, and career-related issues for the youth will be resolved, increasing their work capacity. You may also receive an invitation to attend a professional meeting or conference. While family life will be pleasant, its important to maintain boundaries when interacting with the opposite sex. Health-wise, be mindful of your eating habits to avoid stomach issues, and keep your routine in check for overall well-being. Positive Socializing with some close people will bring better results, and you will benefit. You will get a new identity in society, due to which there will be happiness and energy in your mind. At this time, more hard work is needed to complete any of your plans. Negative Do not waste time in useless activities. Sometimes your rude talk can make someone sad. Also, avoid unnecessary travel. Some negative changes in the behavior of children can cause concern for you. Instead of getting angry, behave friendly way with them. Business A big deal can happen today in the property-related business. The career-related problems of the youth will be solved, and their working capacity will also increase. If money is stuck somewhere, then you can get it today if you try. You will get an invitation to attend a meeting or conference in your job. Financial- Todays financial horoscope can prove to be average for you. You are likely to increase your means of income today. You can get benefits from the property, which will benefit you in the coming days. This is the best day for you to start a big project. Your luck is with you, and you will see good growth in your business. You should focus on your work and be active to grow your business further. You should also pay attention to your financial investments and check them from time to time. You should run your financial plans carefully so that you do not have to incur any unwanted expenses in the coming days. This can improve your financial condition in the coming time, so you should be careful from your financial point of view today and try to grow your business further. Your luck is likely to shine in the job as well. You will be full of enthusiasm, energy, and excitement as compared to before. Students engaged in competitive examinations are expected to get good results. Love The family atmosphere will be pleasant, but keep in mind your limits while dealing with persons of the opposite sex. Health There will be problems like an upset stomach due to wrong eating habits. It is very important to keep your daily routine organized. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Lucky Colour Pink Lucky Number 12 (The author Chirag Daruwalla is the son of Astrologer Bejan Daruwalla). About the Author Chirag Daruwalla Chirag Daruwalla, a renowned Indian astrologer with 18+ years of experience, provides expert guidance in career, health, finance, business, and more. He combines Vedic and Western astrology, I-Ching, ... Read More First Published: September 28, 2025, 06:10 IST News astrology Aries Horoscope Today, September 28, 2025 Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Leo Horoscope Today, September 28, 2025 Written By : GaneshaGrace Last Updated: September 28, 2025, 06:30 IST Leo Daily Horoscope, September 28, 2025: Family joy and pride dominate your day. Business changes bring results. Stay calm with setbacks and monitor your health closely. Leo Horoscope Today: Astrological predictions by Chirag Daruwalla for simha rashi on September 28 2025. (AI generated image) Leo Daily Horoscope Today, September 28 2025: Ganesha says for Leo, today brings a joyful atmosphere at home, especially with a good marriage proposal for a family member. Youll also feel proud of a childs achievement. Time will be spent on home maintenance activities, like shopping. However, some challenges may arise, and a few plans might not go as expected. Dont be discouragedkeep trying, and things will resolve soon. Personal matters may crop up, but patience and a peaceful approach will help solve them. In business, any changes youve made in your working system will yield positive results, and new ventures are on the horizon. Its also an ideal time to invest in a business-related policy. Recommended Stories At work, maintaining good relationships with colleagues is crucial. In love, contributing to maintaining harmony in family activities will keep relationships sweet. For health, make sure to regularly monitor blood pressure and sugar levels, as any carelessness could lead to health issues. Positive There will be a happy atmosphere in the house due to a good proposal coming for a marriageable member of the family. You will feel proud of some activity of your child. Time will also be spent in shopping, etc., for activities related to home maintenance. Negative Some problems will also remain. Some plans may also go wrong, but do not get disappointed and try again, and the problems will be solved soon. Some personal matters may arise. Find a solution peacefully and patiently. Business Changes made in your working system in business will give the right results. Plans will be made to start a new work. This is the right time to invest in a policy related to business. Maintain good relations with your colleagues in the office. Financial- This day can be very auspicious for you from a financial point of view. There are signs of an increase in your income today. You can benefit from some property today, which will strengthen your financial position. If you have an idea of starting a big project in your mind, then today is a very good time to start it. Your luck is with you, and you will see good growth in your business. You should be proud of your financial situation and take more time for yourself. You have to be active to achieve your financial goals today, and you will also be successful in it. You should also focus on your financial investments today and try to complete your financial plans on time. You should enjoy a prosperous day from your financial point of view today. Some unwanted situations can also suddenly arise in front of employed people. In some cases, you may get upset due to not getting help from the officers. Love It is important to contribute to maintaining order in family activities. This will also keep the sweetness in relationships. Health Keep checking blood pressure, sugar level, etc., regularly. A little carelessness can also increase your health problems. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Lucky Colour White Lucky Number 6 (The author Chirag Daruwalla is the son of Astrologer Bejan Daruwalla). About the Author Chirag Daruwalla Chirag Daruwalla, a renowned Indian astrologer with 18+ years of experience, provides expert guidance in career, health, finance, business, and more. He combines Vedic and Western astrology, I-Ching, ... Read More First Published: September 28, 2025, 06:30 IST News astrology Leo Horoscope Today, September 28, 2025 Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Tata Capital IPO GMP: Rs 17,200 Crore Issue To Open On October 06; Check Details Reported By : News18.com Last Updated: September 28, 2025, 16:49 IST Tata Capital IPO opens October 6, 2025, aiming for a Rs 17,200 crore issue and Rs 18 billion valuation. Price band has yet to be finalised, but GMP of unlisted shares in focus. Tata Capital IPO to open between October 06 and October 08. Tata Capital IPO GMP: Tata Capital, the non-banking financial arm of the Tata Group, is set to launch its initial public offering (IPO) on Monday, October 06, 2025. The issue size has been pegged at around $2 billion (Rs 17,200 crore), with the company eyeing a valuation of nearly $18 billion. The public issue will be closed for subscription on Wednesday, October 8, 2025. Recommended Stories The price band for the Tata Capital IPO hasnt been finalized yet, but unlisted shares have begun trading in the gray market. The proposed issue comprises a total of 47.58 crore shares, including a fresh issue of 21 crore equity shares and an offer for sale (OFS) of 26.58 crore shares. Tata Sons, which currently holds an 88.6% stake in Tata Capital, will offload about 23 crore shares. International Finance Corporation (IFC), which owns 1.8%, will sell 3.58 crore shares. Proceeds from the fresh issue will be used to bolster Tata Capitals Tier-1 capital base, helping the NBFC meet future capital requirements, including lending operations. In August, Tata Capital launched a series of institutional roadshows to engage both global and domestic investors. The move follows the shadow banks filing of an updated Draft Red Herring Prospectus (DRHP) with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) on August 4. Tata Capital IPO GMP According to investorgain.com, the gray market premium for unlisted shares of Tata Capital is currently Rs 20.5. The gray market is an unauthorized market where a companys shares trade before their listing. The GMP is based on market sentiments and keeps changing. Grey market premium indicates investors readiness to pay more than the issue price. This IPO comes as part of the Reserve Bank of Indias mandate, which requires all upper-layer NBFCs to be listed within three years of classification. Tata Capital was identified as an upper-layer NBFC in September 2022. The move mirrors similar listings in the sector. HDB Financial Services went public in June 2025 with a Rs 12,500 crore issue, while Bajaj Housing Finance made a blockbuster debut in September 2024, doubling investors money on listing day with a 135% premium. Tata Capital Business and Financials Founded in 2007, Tata Capital today serves over 70 lakh customers with a wide portfolio of more than 25 lending products, catering to individuals, SMEs, entrepreneurs and corporates. Apart from lending, it also distributes third-party products like insurance and credit cards, provides wealth management services, and acts as a sponsor and investment manager for private equity funds. For FY25, Tata Capital reported a profit after tax (PAT) of Rs 3,655 crore, compared to Rs 3,327 crore in the previous year. Its revenue jumped to Rs 28,313 crore in FY25, up from Rs 18,175 crore in FY24. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The IPO is being managed by a strong line-up of book-running lead managers, including Axis Capital, Kotak Mahindra Capital, BNP Paribas, HDFC Bank, HSBC Securities, Citigroup Global Markets, ICICI Securities, IIFL Capital, SBI Capital Markets and J P Morgan India. About the Author Varun Yadav Varun Yadav is a Sub Editor at News18 Business Digital. He writes articles on markets, personal finance, technology, and more. He completed his post-graduation diploma in English Journalism from the I... Read More First Published: September 28, 2025, 16:44 IST News business ipo Tata Capital IPO GMP: Rs 17,200 Crore Issue To Open On October 06; Check Details Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... JLR Secures 1.5 Bn UK Loan Backing; Tata Motors Stock To Be Watched Monday Reported By : News18.com Last Updated: September 28, 2025, 11:06 IST Tata Motors shares rose after Jaguar Land Rover, hit by a cyberattack, secured a 1.5 billion UK government-backed loan to aid suppliers and plans a phased restart of operations. Tata Motors shares in focus after JLR suffered one of the biggest cyberattacks. Tata Motors Share Price: Tata Motors shares will be in spotlight on Monday, September 29, after its cyberattack-hit unit Jaguar Land Rover is expected to get a respite from the UK government in a 1.5 billion ($2 billion) loan to ease the strain on suppliers, according to Bloomberg report. Recommended Stories JLR suffered a cyberattack at the end of August, which forced it to shut down its IT networks and halt production. It has extended the shutdown until next month, and the production of cars will remain suspended. The Financial Times report states that JLR is likely to hit with a 2 billion as it was not insured against the cyberattack, leading to operational disruption and financial losses. This indicates that the cyberattack could wipe out an amount equal to its entire profit for FY25 for JLR. The automaker failed to finalise a cyber insurance deal brokered by Lockton ahead of the incident, and appears to be uninsured directly for the attack, as per Reuters report. If JLR takes a 2 billion hit, combined with the losses from its ongoing production shutdown, the impact would exceed its FY25 Profit After Tax of 1.8 billion. The UK government on Saturday said Jaguar Land Rover will repay the 1.5 billion loan, arranged through a commercial bank and backed by UK Export Finance, over the next five years, the Bloomberg report added. The Labour administration had also been weighing measures to aid suppliers impacted by the recent cyberattack, which disrupted operations, delayed payments, and left some vendors temporarily sending workers home. JLR, Britains biggest carmaker, directly employs 34,000 people in the country, with another 120,000 jobs linked to its vast supply chain network. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Tata Motors Limiteds shares ended 1.45 per cent higher to Rs 673.95 apiece, after JLR announced a phased restart of its operations. About the Author Varun Yadav Varun Yadav is a Sub Editor at News18 Business Digital. He writes articles on markets, personal finance, technology, and more. He completed his post-graduation diploma in English Journalism from the I... Read More First Published: September 28, 2025, 11:06 IST News business markets JLR Secures 1.5 Bn UK Loan Backing; Tata Motors Stock To Be Watched Monday Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Vijay's TVK Moves Madras High Court, Alleges Conspiracy After 40 Killed In Karur Stampede Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: September 28, 2025, 14:39 IST Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), the party led by actor-politician Vijay, approached the Madras High Court seeking a probe into the Karur stampede. Rapid Read + Follow us On Google Victims being taken to hospital after a stampede-like situation was witnessed during a rally presided by Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam chief and actor Vijay, in Karur district, Tamil Nadu. (IMAGE: PTI) Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), the party led by actor-politician Vijay, approached the Madras High Court seeking a probe into the Karur stampede. Later, the court admitted an urgent motion moved by the party, agreeing to consider its request for suo motu cognisance of the tragedy. As many as 40 people lost their lives in a stampede at actor-politician and TVK chief Vijays public rally in Karur on September 27. Recommended Stories The TVK, according to LiveLaw, which first reported the development, is alleging conspiracy and is seeking a suo motu probe or a probe by an independent agency. Vijay on Sunday announced that Rs 20 lakh would be given to the families of those who lost their lives at a stampede. He said he is deeply anguished over the incident, which claimed more than 30 lives and left many others injured. Expressing his condolences to the bereaved families in a social media post on Sunday, he said a sum of Rs 20 lakh would be given to the families of the deceased and Rs 2 lakh to those who sustained injuries. It is not a huge amount for the loss you have suffered. I know your loss cannot be replaced. It is an irreparable loss. However, it is my duty to stand next to you in this hour and share your grief," he said. The party has been holding rallies every weekend across Tamil Nadu in the run-up to the assembly elections. But the event in Karur on Saturday took a tragic turn when the crowd triggered a stampede. Meanwhile, Tamil Nadu government sources while speaking to News18 alleged that multiple lapses by Vijays TVK led to the Karur stampede. They said the actor-politicians five-hour delay, the decision to keep his vehicles lights off and bypass waiting crowds and overcrowding beyond permitted limits triggered the surge. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Safety norms such as barricades, medical teams and amenities were ignored, while traffic was obstructed and past warning incidents overlooked. With over 25,000 people gathered against permission for 10,000, the administration cited negligence, poor planning and rule violations, according to the sources. The aforementioned people added that cases have been filed against TVK leaders under culpable homicide, negligence, and damage to public property provisions. About the Author Shankhyaneel Sarkar Shankhyaneel Sarkar is a senior subeditor at News18. He covers international affairs, where he focuses on breaking news to in-depth analyses. He has over five years of experience during which he has c... Read More First Published: September 28, 2025, 12:43 IST News chennai-news Vijay's TVK Moves Madras High Court, Alleges Conspiracy After 40 Killed In Karur Stampede Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... After Delhi's IGI Airport, Mumbai Dadar Station Receives Bomb Threat, Authorities On Alert Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: September 28, 2025, 22:58 IST The bomb threat turned out to be a hoax; however, the security has been heightened, and a complaint has been filed in the matter. News18 Mumbais Dadar railway station received a bomb threat on Sunday, creating panic in the area. The incident prompted swift response from Mumbai Police. According to officials, the call was received at Shivaji Park police station, following which a joint team of the Government Railway Police (GRP), local police, and a bomb disposal squad rushed to the spot. The entire station and nearby areas were thoroughly checked. After an extensive search, no suspicious objects were found. Recommended Stories It appears to be a hoax call," a senior police officer said, adding that a case has been registered and efforts are underway to trace the caller. This comes on the same day when Delhi airport and several other institutions across the national capital received bomb threat emails. An official from the Delhi Fire Services confirmed that the bomb threat emails were sent to CRPF Public School in Dwarka and a Sarvodaya Vidyalaya near Qutub Minar. Following thorough checks by security teams, the threats were declared a hoax, bringing relief to students, parents, and staff. Police teams, fire personnel, and bomb disposal units were promptly deployed to the affected schools to carry out a search operation properly. However, nothing suspicious was found," the official said. On September 13, bomb threat emails were sent to three Max Multi-Speciality Hospitals located in Dwarka, Shalimar Bagh, and Saket in Delhi, sparking concern and a swift security response. That same day, Hotel Taj Palace in Chanakyapuri also received a hoax bomb threat. Delhi Police quickly moved into action, deploying heavy security around the hotel and conducting a detailed search with bomb disposal squads to ensure the area was safe. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Earlier this month, on August 22, an ISKCON temple in Mumbai received a threat email on Friday, prompting immediate action by police authorities. In response to the threat, police and the bomb disposal squad carried out a thorough search of the temple premises to ensure the safety of devotees and staff. About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, ... Read More First Published: September 28, 2025, 22:58 IST News mumbai-news After Delhi's IGI Airport, Mumbai Dadar Station Receives Bomb Threat, Authorities On Alert Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Mumbai Metro-3s Fancy CSMT, Hutatma Chowk & Churchgate Stations Set For Launch: Take A Look Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: September 28, 2025, 19:56 IST Mumbai Metro-3: After Cuffe Parade Metro station, pictures of Hutatma Chowk, Vidhan Bhavan and Churchgate stations on the Worli to Colaba stretch were shared on social media Rapid Read + Follow us On Google Mumbai Metro-3: Hutatma Chowk, Vidhan Bhavan and Churchgate Stations. (Instagram) With the Mumbai Metro-3 or the Aqua Line, connecting south Mumbai to the suburbs, set to open soon, the stations on the last stretch are getting ready. After Cuffe Parade Metro station, pictures of Hutatma Chowk, CSMT, Vidhan Bhavan and Churchgate stations on the Worli to Colaba stretch were shared on social media. Recommended Stories The Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) Metro station will revolutionise connectivity. Sleek modern design with arched entrance & glass facade. Direct connectivity from #CSMT Metro Station to #CSMT Suburban Railway via subway. Multiple entry & exit points for easy access. Connects key business, heritage landmarks, and transport hubs in South Mumbai," read the caption on Instagram. Take a look at the station pictures: Next comes the Hutatma Chowk Mumbai Metro-3 Station from Gateway to South Mumbais Icons. From heritage landmarks to financial hubs, cultural hotspots to stadiums this station connects you to it all! Seamless access to Bombay High Court, BSE, RBI Headquarters, Gymkhana, Flora Fountain, offices, museums, libraries, schools, colleges, hospitals & more right from the heart of the city," reads the caption. Take a look at the pictures: View this post on Instagram A post shared by MumbaiMetro3 (@mumbaimetro3) The Churchgate Mumbai Metro-3 station offers quick access to Marine Drive, Nariman Point, Mantralaya, Wankhede, Oval Maidan, NCPA, Mumbai University, Gateway of India, says the caption. Take a look: View this post on Instagram A post shared by MumbaiMetro3 (@mumbaimetro3) The Vidhan Bhavan Metro station of Aqua Line will provide direct underground access to Vidhan Bhavan, Mantralaya and the New Administrative Building. With multiple entry/exit points, the station ensures safe, convenient, and congestion-free travel for both government employees and the public," reads the caption on Instagram. Heres how the station looks: View this post on Instagram A post shared by MumbaiMetro3 (@mumbaimetro3) The inauguration of the last phase, from Worli to Cuffe Parade, will make the line fully operational. It has the following stations Science Museum, Mahalaxmi, Mumbai Central, Grant Road, Girgaon, Kalbadevi, CSMT, Hutatma Chowk, Churchgate, Vidhan Bhavan, Cuffe Parade. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The already open phase from BKC to Worli has six stations Dharavi, Shitaladevi Temple, Dadar, Siddhivinayak Temple, Worli and Acharya Atre Chowk (Worli Naka). The stretch from BKC to Aarey Colony has 10 stations BKC, Bandra Colony, Santacruz, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) T1, Sahar Road, CSMIA T 2, Marol Naka, Andheri, SEEPZ and Aarey Colony JVLR (the only station at grade). About the Author Manjiri Joshi At the news desk for 17 years, the story of her life has revolved around finding pun, facts while reporting, on radio, heading a daily newspaper desk, teaching mass media students to now editing speci... Read More First Published: September 28, 2025, 16:08 IST News mumbai-news Mumbai Metro-3s Fancy CSMT, Hutatma Chowk & Churchgate Stations Set For Launch: Take A Look Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... We Did It: Mumbais Metro Woman Says Team & Citizens Made Citys 1st Underground Line Possible Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: September 28, 2025, 18:38 IST The 33.5-km Mumbai Metro-3 had almost 56-km-long two tunnels. It passed through busy areas, dilapidated buildings. But we did it," says Metro woman and MMRC MD Ashwini Bhide Rapid Read + Follow us On Google Ashwini Bhide, MD of MMRC, is called Mumbai's Metro woman. (File/News18 Lokmat) In the past few years, every chat around Mumbai infrastructure has had one key mention the Metro network. Inch by inch, phase by phase, the project is changing how Mumbaiites travel. And the one name associated with the project is that of Mumbais Metro woman Ashwini Bhide, MD, Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation (MMRC). As Mumbai Metro-3, the Aqua Line, gets ready for a launch, News18 Lokmat spoke to Bhide about the challenges in the making of the citys first underground Metro. Recommended Stories In case of underground Metro, the challenges were bigger. Mumbai has not seen such a massive intervention ever. The 33.5-km Mumbai Metro-3 line had almost 56-km-long two tunnels. The line passed through busy areas of the city, went under dilapidated buildings and high-rises. Initially, people were sceptical or even negative towards it. But we did it! And the cooperation of Mumbaiites played a key role in it," said Bhide. EXPLAINED | Mumbai Metro-3 Till Cuffe Parade Soon: How Was Tunnel Under CSMT, Flora Fountain Laid? News18, in a detailed explainer, had highlighted the challenges in building tunnels for Mumbai Metro lines. For instance, in case of Mumbai Metro-3, the line passes under CSMT, Flora Fountain and Marine Drive. So it required detailed geotechnical surveys and vibration monitoring to avoid structural damage. To avoid existing rail lines (WR & CR), sewerage lines, gas mains, telecom ducts, and storm drains, the tunnels had to be deeper. Waterproof tunnel segments, sealing rings, and real-time groundwater pressure monitoring had to be used to reduce flooding risk. When asked about the Metro woman tag given to her, Bhide said, It shows peoples sentimentsThere is a huge team behind this. One person cant do anything." View this post on Instagram A post shared by MumbaiMetro3 (@mumbaimetro3) Bhide said her five-year stint at the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) helped her develop an understanding of handling major urban projects. Bhide called her mother the Durga in her life for encouraging her to pursue her dreams. Known as the Aqua Line, Metro 3 is Mumbais first fully underground corridor, which has 27 stations (26 underground + one at grade) between Cuffe Parade (Colaba) and Aarey. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all While 12.69-km phase 1 from Aarey Colony to Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC) was inaugurated on October 7, 2024, the BKC to Worli phase 2 was launched on May 9, 2025. The phase one has 10 stations BKC, Bandra Colony, Santacruz, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) T1, Sahar Road, CSMIA T 2, Marol Naka, Andheri, SEEPZ and Aarey Colony JVLR (the only station at grade). The phase 2 passes through six stations Dharavi, Shitaladevi Temple, Dadar, Siddhivinayak Temple, Worli and Acharya Atre Chowk (Worli Naka). The third phase, the last one between Worli and Cuffe Parade which will make the entire line operational, is set to be inaugurated soon. The 10.99-km phase has following stations Science Museum, Mahalaxmi, Mumbai Central, Grant Road, Girgaon, Kalbadevi, CSMT, Hutatma Chowk, Churchgate, Vidhan Bhavan, Cuffe Parade. About the Author Manjiri Joshi At the news desk for 17 years, the story of her life has revolved around finding pun, facts while reporting, on radio, heading a daily newspaper desk, teaching mass media students to now editing speci... Read More First Published: September 28, 2025, 17:54 IST News mumbai-news We Did It: Mumbais Metro Woman Says Team & Citizens Made Citys 1st Underground Line Possible Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Weather Update: Mumbai, Pune, Thane On Red Alert, Heavy Rain Triggers Flooding Concern Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: September 28, 2025, 20:11 IST Heavy rain in Nashik has caused smaller temples in the Ramkund area, such as those near the Dutondya Maruti idol and the Goda Ghat submerged. Several parts of Maharashtra are witnessing heavy rain The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for many districts across Maharashtra as the state braces for more rainy days. The downpour has also raised concern about flooding in low-lying areas. The weather department has sounded a red alert for Mumbai, Nashik, Thane, Palghar, Raigad, and Pune. The IMD has also warned of heavy rain in these areas, asking locals to remain cautious. Recommended Stories These Districts On Alert The Regional Meteorological Centre (RMC) in Mumbai issued a special Nowcast warning for Nashik, Palghar, Dhule, and Nandurbar, which will remain in effect until 7 PM on Sunday. It also issued a yellow alert for Mumbai, and an Orange alert for Thane and Raigad. The IMD has further predicted intense rainfall activity in Mumbai and surrounding areas over the next few days, with an orange alert continuing until September 30. All Schools In Palghar Closed All schools and colleges will remain closed on Monday, September 29, amid a heavy rain forecast. Godavari River Nears Danger Mark Heavy rain in Nashik has caused the Godavari River to rise dangerously close to the danger mark. Several areas, including Ramkund, have already begun to experience flooding. According to a report by PTI, smaller temples in the Ramkund area, such as those near the Dutondya Maruti idol and the Goda Ghat, have been submerged as the river nears the danger mark. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Speaking about the administrations preparedness, Nashik District Collector Jalaj Sharma said, Due to the instructions given by the India Meteorological Department (IMD), a red alert has been issued for Nashik district today and tomorrow. The district administration is fully alert and all necessary arrangements have been made for the safety of the citizens." At present, Navratri celebration is on and devotees come to the Saptashring Garh at Vani in large numbers. The administration is taking all possible steps to control the crowd. Devotees should follow the administrations instructions and not rush for darshan," he added. About the Author Anushka Vats Anushka Vats is a Sub-Editor at News18.com with a passion for storytelling and a curiosity that extends beyond the newsroom. She covers both national and international news. For more stories, you can ... Read More First Published: September 28, 2025, 20:11 IST News mumbai-news Weather Update: Mumbai, Pune, Thane On Red Alert, Heavy Rain Triggers Flooding Concern Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... In a recent Market on Close livestream, John Rowland, CMT, tackled a question on natural gas into year-end and his breakdown is one traders wont want to miss. Right now, natural gas (NGX25) is stuck in a sideways range near $3.20. But John sees the potential for major movement in either direction as we move deeper into winter. More News from Barchart Key Price Levels Upside targets: $4.50$5.00 as base case, with a possible spike toward $6 if catalysts hit Downside floor: ~$2.85 as near-term support Current range: ~$3.20 (the shoulder season lull between summer and winter demand) www.barchart.com Catalysts That Could Move NatGas Bullish drivers: Colder-than-expected winter weather in the U.S. Escalation of sanctions against Russia Energy supply disruptions in Europe Rising demand from data centers & electricity generation (45% of U.S. power still comes from natgas) Bearish drivers: Warmer winter, reduced heating demand Stable LNG exports and no geopolitical shocks Oversupply in U.S. production Trading NatGas: Futures & ETFs For traders who want exposure, John flagged the ProShares Ultra Bloomberg Natural Gas ETF (BOIL), a 2x leveraged fund, as a short-term vehicle: I would play BOIL on a short-term momentum basis. Not as an investment vehicle. Thats because leverage + daily resets make products like BOIL and its inverse counterpart, the ProShares UltraShort Bloomberg Natural Gas ETF (KOLD), better for tactical trades as opposed to long-term holds. Want more diversified exposure? Use Barcharts ETF Finder for Energy to screen for ETFs focused on natural gas and energy equities. And dont forget to track pricing and contracts on Barcharts Energies Futures page. The Bottom Line Natural gas is calm now but Johns roadmap shows how quickly it could break out. Traders should: Map out the $2.85 downside vs. $4.50$6 upside range Watch weather and geopolitics for catalysts Use futures, ETFs, and leveraged products tactically Watch the clip from Market on Close: Stream the full episode and turn on notifications for the next live show. Explore Natural Gas prices & ETFs on Barchart. On the date of publication, Barchart Insights did not have (either directly or indirectly) positions in any of the securities mentioned in this article. All information and data in this article is solely for informational purposes. This article was originally published on Barchart.com After Delhi Schools, IGI Airport Gets Bomb Threat; Authorities On Alert, Probe On Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: September 28, 2025, 17:31 IST The national capital has recently seen a surge in hoax bomb threats, with several schools, hospitals, and even the Delhi High Court among the targets. Delhi airport | Representative image Delhi airport and several schools and other institutions across the national capital received bomb threat emails on Sunday. Recommended Stories An official from the Delhi Fire Services confirmed that the bomb threat emails were sent to CRPF Public School in Dwarka and a Sarvodaya Vidyalaya near Qutub Minar. Following thorough checks by security teams, the threats were declared a hoax, bringing relief to students, parents, and staff. Police teams, fire personnel, and bomb disposal units were promptly deployed to the affected schools to carry out a search operation properly. However, nothing suspicious was found," the official said. This comes in line with several such threats Delhi has witnessed recently. Recently on September 13, as many as three Max Multi-speciality Hospitals, situated in Delhis Dwarka, Shalimar Bagh, and Saket received bomb threats. On the same day, Hotel Taj Palace in Delhis Chanakyapuri also got a hoax bomb email, prompting an immediate and robust response from the Delhi Police. Heavy security was deployed around the hotel premises, with bomb disposal squads running a thorough check in the area. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, ... Read More First Published: September 28, 2025, 16:32 IST News new-delhi-news After Delhi Schools, IGI Airport Gets Bomb Threat; Authorities On Alert, Probe On Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Ashram Horror: Delhi Baba, Accused Of Molesting 17 Women, Arrested In Agra Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: September 28, 2025, 10:05 IST Police on the early hours of Sunday arrested Swami Chaitanyananda Saraswati, the self-styled godman accused of molesting 17 female students at a private institute in New Delhi. Rapid Read + Follow us On Google Police officers seen with self-styled godman Swami Chaitanyanand Saraswati after his arrest from a hotel in Agra, Uttar Pradesh. (IMAGE: SOURCED/NEWS18) In the early hours of Sunday, police arrested Swami Chaitanyananda Saraswati, a self-styled godman accused of molesting at least 17 female students at a private institute in Delhis Vasant Kunj. Chaitanyananda, also known as Swami Parthasarathy, was taken into custody from Agra in Uttar Pradesh. He had allegedly sent lewd messages to young women and had been absconding for nearly two months. Earlier this week, a Delhi court rejected his anticipatory bail plea. Recommended Stories He faces charges of sexual abuse and financial misappropriation. Police said he withdrew around Rs 60 lakh after fleeing and is accused of misappropriating more than Rs 30 crore. Delhi Police arrested the self-styled godman from Hotel First in Taj Ganj around 3:30 am and he is being brought to Delhis Vasant Kunj Police Station. Chaitanyananda, who was the director of the Sri Sharada Institute of Indian Management in southwest Delhi, allegedly misused his position to sexually harass women. He also targeted women from economically weaker backgrounds in an attempt to compel them into sexual relations. The first alerts about sexual misconduct by Swami Chaitanyananda came through two letters, one posted by a student and another by an Air Force officer, received by the Peetham towards the end of July and in the first week of August, according to the FIR cited by news agency ANI. Soon after, the institute began receiving complaints from the Air Force headquarters, as many of its students were children of Air Force personnel. Acting on these letters and complaints, the Governing Council of the Peetham held a virtual meeting with over 30 women students at the institute on August 3. Students alleged that Chaitanyananda would probe them about their intimate lives, including questions on sexual relations with boyfriends and whether they used condoms. CCTV cameras were installed across the womens hostel and even near bathrooms, ostensibly for security, but the self-styled godman maintained remote access to the feeds. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all He also sent late-night WhatsApp messages such as Baby, I love you" and I adore you," while publicly shaming women in front of their peers. According to a report by the Hindustan Times, one Haryana student was labelled characterless" for having a boyfriend, while another fled his office in tears with her clothes torn. The women further recounted that on Holi, they were made to stand in a line and bow before Chaitanyananda, who applied colour to their cheeks and the parting of their hair before anyone else. About the Author Shankhyaneel Sarkar Shankhyaneel Sarkar is a senior subeditor at News18. He covers international affairs, where he focuses on breaking news to in-depth analyses. He has over five years of experience during which he has c... Read More First Published: September 28, 2025, 06:48 IST News new-delhi-news Ashram Horror: Delhi Baba, Accused Of Molesting 17 Women, Arrested In Agra Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Bomb Threat At TVK Chief Vijays Chennai Residence Amid Karur Stampede Row, Security Tightened Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: September 28, 2025, 23:17 IST A day after a deadly stampede at his rally in Karur, actor-turned-politician and TVK chief Vijays residence in Neelankarai, Chennai, received a bomb threat TVK Chief Vijay | Image: File A day after a deadly stampede at his political rally in Karur claimed nearly 40 lives, actor-turned-politician and TVK chief Vijays residence in Neelankarai, Chennai, received a bomb threat, prompting heightened security measures. After Vijay reached his residence on Saturday midnight, following the fatal stampede tragedy at his rally in Karur, security was beefed up at his residence, with local Chennai city police and CRPF personnel deployed around his home. Recommended Stories Visuals from outside his residence showed the bomb squad carrying out an extensive search with sniffer dogs. VIDEO | Chennai: TVK leader Vijay receives bomb threat, squad arrives with sniffer dogs for thorough search at his Neelankarai residence.(Full video available on PTI Videos https://t.co/n147TvrpG7) pic.twitter.com/wG8GBMWTtm Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) September 28, 2025 In his first reaction to the Karur tragedy, TVK chief Vijay said he was shattered" and in unbearable pain" over the loss of lives at his rally. Extending condolences, he said his heart went out to the families of those killed and prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured. Issuing a second statement later, Vijay expressed profound grief, saying the incident had left him overwhelmed with sorrow. He announced financial assistance of Rs 20 lakh each for the families of those who died and Rs 2 lakh each for the injured. No words of comfort can ease this irreparable loss," he said, adding that he stood with the bereaved families in their grief. The stampede during Vijays rally in Karur on Saturday claimed 40 lives and left nearly 100 people injured. Tamil Nadu Director General of Police G Venkataraman said organisers had projected an audience of 10,000, but close to 27,000 people turned up at the 1.2 lakh sq ft venue. About 500 police personnel had been deployed. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Venkataraman added that the crowd began swelling early after TVKs official social media handle announced Vijays arrival at 12 noon, despite permission being granted for the rally between 3 p.m. and 10 p.m. People had been waiting since 11 a.m. without food or water in the heat, and Vijay eventually arrived only at 7:40 p.m.," he said, noting that it was too early" to determine the exact trigger of the deadly surge. Location : Tamil Nadu, India, India First Published: September 28, 2025, 22:50 IST News india Bomb Threat At TVK Chief Vijays Chennai Residence Amid Karur Stampede Row, Security Tightened Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... 'I Have Reached': Jammu Airport Receives Bomb Threat Email, Detailed Searches Underway Last Updated: September 28, 2025, 14:05 IST After the threat, CISF scanned the airport and found no immediate threat. Search op is underway. Jammu Airport Receives Bomb Threat Email (File) Jammu Airport received a bomb threat on Sunday. An email warning was sent that contained phrases like bomb blast" and I have reached." The CISF scanned the airport and found no immediate threat. Detailed searches are currently underway at Jammu Airport. Recommended Stories The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) scanned terminals, luggage areas and other areas. Bomb disposal squads and sniffer dog units were also present at the site. Madras HC Receives bomb Threat Earlier this week, panic spread at the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court here after a bomb threat was received by authorities. As per a police source, the threat was sent on Friday. A thorough search of the premises as per protocol revealed it was a hoax. The email was sent to the Court, leading to evacuation of the personnel and the public from the Court premises this morning, they said. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The threat came via email this morning searches have been completed and the threat turned out to be a hoax," a senior police official told PTI. Agencies, including CISF and the police department conducted intensive searches for more than three hours and declared it to be a hoax. Location : Jammu, India, India First Published: September 28, 2025, 12:54 IST News india 'I Have Reached': Jammu Airport Receives Bomb Threat Email, Detailed Searches Underway Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... 'Lay Down Weapons, Police Won't Fire': Amit Shah's Big Message Amid Ceasefire Offer By Maoists Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: September 28, 2025, 19:21 IST Amit Shah ruled out the possibility of a formal ceasefire, insisting that those seeking peace must surrender immediately Union Home Minister Amit Shah. (Photo: X) Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday delivered a sharp message to Maoists following reports of a ceasefire offer by the outlawed CPI (Maoist), saying there will be no formal truce. Speaking to CNN-News18, Shah ruled out the possibility of a formal ceasefire, insisting that those seeking peace must surrender immediately. Recommended Stories A letter was roaming saying that what has happened so far was a mistake and asking for a ceasefire because they want to surrender. There will be no ceasefire. If they want to surrender, there is no need for a ceasefire lay down your weapons; the police will not fire a single shot," Shah said. The response came after a letter dated August 15 surfaced, allegedly issued by Maoist spokesperson Mallujola Venugopal alias Abhay. The note declared a unilateral suspension of armed struggle and expressed a willingness to hold talks with the Centre, citing appeals made by the Prime Minister, the Home Minister, and senior police officers. State governments, however, remain cautious. Chhattisgarh Home Minister Vijay Sharma confirmed that both the letter and an accompanying voice note had been verified as authentic. He added that the rebels would first need to prove their sincerity by removing improvised explosive devices (IEDs) planted across the state. The development comes at a time when security forces have dealt heavy blows to Maoist ranks. In February, 31 Maoists were killed in a fierce encounter at Indravati National Park in Bijapur, Chhattisgarh. In May, the organisation suffered its biggest setback in decades when its general secretary Nambala Keshava Rao, alias Basavaraju, was gunned down in Narayanpur along with over 25 fighters. Operations have since continued across multiple states. Just last week, a Rs 1 crore bounty-carrying leader, Sahdev Soren, was killed along with two others in Jharkhands Hazaribag. CRPF and Maharashtra Police commandos also dismantled long-standing Maoist networks in Gadchiroli. Pothula Padmavathi, alias Sujatha a senior Central Committee Member and wife of slain Maoist politburo leader Kishenji surrendered in Telangana earlier this month after more than four decades underground. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all She was wanted in over 70 cases and carried a reward of Rs 40 lakh. The Maoist overture comes against the backdrop of the Shahs earlier pledge to eliminate the insurgency by March 2026. First Published: September 28, 2025, 18:58 IST News india 'Lay Down Weapons, Police Won't Fire': Amit Shah's Big Message Amid Ceasefire Offer By Maoists Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Loss Is Irreparable: TVK Chief Vijay Announces Rs 20 Lakh Aid For Families Of Stampede Victims Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: September 28, 2025, 14:41 IST TVK chief and actor Vijay mourn Karur stampede victims, announce financial aid. Rapid Read Choose News18 on Google Tamil Nadu DGP G Venkatraman said permission was sought for 10,000 people, and the authorities had estimated a large turnout based on TVK chief Vijay's previous rallies. (Image: PTI) Actor and Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chief Vijay on Sunday expressed profound grief over the tragic stampede that occurred at a rally in Karur yesterday, leaving 40 dead and several injured. In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), Vijay said, In a way that defies imagination, thinking about what happened in Karur yesterday, my heart and mind are overwhelmed with profound heaviness." He expressed his condolences to the families of the deceased and conveyed deep sorrow for the injured. Recommended Stories The faces of all of you whom I have met keep flashing through my mind. The more I think of my loved ones who show affection and care, the more my heart slips further from its place. My dear ones While I express my deepest condolences with indescribable pain to you who are grieving the loss of our cherished loved ones, I also stand close to your hearts, sharing this immense sorrow," he said. Vijay also announced financial support for those affected by the tragedy, stating that each family of the deceased would receive Rs 20 lakh, while those injured and receiving treatment would get Rs 2 lakh. This amount is, of course, not significant in the face of such a loss. Still, at this moment, it is my duty as one who belongs to your family to stand by you, my dear ones, with a heavy heart," he said. He further prayed to God that all who are injured and undergoing treatment recover swiftly and return home. I also assure you that our Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam will steadfastly provide all necessary support to our loved ones under treatment. By the grace of God, let us strive to recover from all this," he said. Follow Live Updates Here top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all TVK Vijay Rally Stampede LIVE: PM Modi Announces Rs 2 Lakh Ex-Gratia For Victims Family Chief Minister MK Stalin also announced a compensation of Rs 10 lakh to the families of those who died in the stampede, and Rs 1 lakh for those who were injured and are being treated in hospitals. The State government has announced a commission to be headed by retired judge Aruna Jagadeesan to probe the circumstances that led to the stampede, Stalin said. Location : Tamil Nadu, India, India First Published: September 28, 2025, 11:43 IST News india Loss Is Irreparable: TVK Chief Vijay Announces Rs 20 Lakh Aid For Families Of Stampede Victims Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... News18 Afternoon Digest: TVK Rally Stampede Death Toll Rises To 40, Delhi Ashram Baba Arrested And More Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: September 28, 2025, 14:33 IST Karur stampede kills 40; TVK, Vijay seek probe, announce aid. Swami Chaitanyananda held for harassment, fraud. Lavrov confirms Putins India visit. TVK Rally Stampede In todays afternoon digest, News18 brings you the latest update on Karur stampede in which as many as 40 people lost their lives, Swami Chaitanyananda Saraswati, a self-styled godman arrested for sexually harassing 17 women at a Delhi ashram, and more. Recommended Stories Vijays TVK Moves Madras High Court, Alleges Conspiracy After 39 Killed In Karur Stampede Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), the party led by actor-politician Vijay, approached the Madras High Court seeking a probe into the Karur stampede. Later, the court admitted an urgent motion moved by the party, agreeing to consider its request for suo motu cognisance of the tragedy. Fake Passports, PMO Links, Forged UN Visiting Cards: Delhi Police Expose Ashram Baba Swami Chaitanyananda Saraswati, a self-styled godman arrested for sexually harassing 17 women at a Delhi ashram, has also been found involved in multiple fraudulent activities, including forging visiting cards and passports. Loss Is Irreparable: TVK Chief Vijay Announces Rs 20 Lakh Aid For Families Of Stampede Victims Actor and Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chief Vijay on Sunday expressed profound grief over the tragic stampede that occurred at a rally in Karur yesterday, leaving 39 dead and several injured. He expressed his condolences to the families of the deceased and conveyed deep sorrow for the injured. Security Beefed Up At Actor Vijays Chennai Home After Tamil Nadu Rally Stampede A day after stampede at a Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) rally in Karur on Saturday left at least 40 dead (toll as of September 28, 2pm) and over 100 injured, security has been beefed up at actor and party chief Vijays residence in Chennai, NDTV quoted government sources as saying. India Has Self-Respect, Says Lavrov As Russia Plans Putins December Visit Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, speaking to Indian media on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, said Moscow is preparing for President Vladimir Putins visit to India later this year. He noted that the bilateral agenda covers trade, defence, technology and cooperation across global platforms. Jab Tak Jung Hai: Ex-Pak Cricketer Counters Suryakumars No Rivalry Claim Former wicketkeeper Rashid Latif has said that till the time war rages between India and Pakistan, rivalry between the two teams will be there, countering Indias T20I skipper Suryakumar Yadavs statement of no rivalry between the two sides. The latters comments came after Indias Super 4 win against Pakistan. Kajol Looks Stunning, Poses With Kids Nysa And Yug At Durga Puja Pandal | Watch top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Kajol was spotted at a Durga Puja pandal in Mumbai, accompanied by her children Nysa and Yug. The actress, a regular at Durga Puja festivities, looked radiant as she participated in the celebrations and happily posed for pictures with her family. About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, ... Read More First Published: September 28, 2025, 14:33 IST News india News18 Afternoon Digest: TVK Rally Stampede Death Toll Rises To 40, Delhi Ashram Baba Arrested And More Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... North Carolina Shooting: Suspect Arrested After 3 Killed, 5 Injured In Restaurant Attack Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: September 28, 2025, 23:27 IST Authorities identified the suspect as Nigel Max Edge, who faces three counts of first-degree murder and five counts of attempted first-degree murder Suspect identified as Nigel Max Edge | Image: X A 40-year-old man has been charged after a gunman opened fire from a boat into a waterfront restaurant in Southport, North Carolina, killing three people and injuring at least five others on Saturday night. Authorities identified the suspect as Nigel Max Edge, who faces three counts of first-degree murder and five counts of attempted first-degree murder. Southports public information officer, ChyAnn Ketchum, confirmed the charges on Sunday. Recommended Stories Police said Edge carried out the shooting in a highly premeditated" manner. We believe this was a targeted location," Southport Police Chief Todd Coring told reporters, adding that the suspect acted alone and that there is no ongoing threat to the public. Investigators said a boat with a lone occupant stopped in front of the American Fish Company restaurant on the Cape Fear River around 9:30 p.m. before shots were fired at patrons. The boat then sped off toward Oak Island. The US Coast Guard later spotted a man matching the shooters description at a public ramp in Oak Island shortly after 10 pm. He was detained and handed over to Southport police. Officials said Edge, a resident of Oak Island, is known to law enforcement but has no significant criminal history. He reportedly told investigators he was a combat veteran suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), though those claims have not been independently confirmed. Oak Island Police Chief Charlie Morris said Edge was a familiar figure in the community, often seen near the town pier, and had filed numerous" lawsuits against the police department and town officials in recent years. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all District Attorney Jon David said at least one of the victims remains in critical condition. Authorities noted that several victims were vacationers visiting the area. Edge is also facing weapons-related charges, with officials indicating more charges may follow as the investigation continues. The names of the deceased victims have not yet been released. Location : United States of America (USA) First Published: September 28, 2025, 23:26 IST News india North Carolina Shooting: Suspect Arrested After 3 Killed, 5 Injured In Restaurant Attack Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... 'Vijay's Fault Is...': Annamalai Questions Timing Of TVK Chief's Karur Rally, Demands CBI Probe Reported By : News18.com Edited By: News Desk Last Updated: September 28, 2025, 20:52 IST Annamalai demanded a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the tragedy and clarified that he was not directly accusing Vijay for the stampede Tamil Nadu BJP leader K Annamalai (PTI Image) Former Tamil Nadu BJP president K Annamalai on Sunday raised questions over the timing of TVK chief Vijays Karur rally, where a stampede left at least 39 people dead. Speaking to CNN-News18, Annamalai criticised the TVK leader for scheduling rallies on weekends, saying the actor-politician should plan events more responsibly. Recommended Stories Vijays fault is keeping programmes on the weekend. He has to behave more responsibly. Keep it in the afternoon if its a weekend, so that people can see you easily. Why keep it at night? Where are TVK volunteers deployed?" the BJP leader said. At least 39 people were killed and dozens more hospitalised after a stampede broke out on Saturday during actor-politician Vijays rally in Karur. Annamalai demanded a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe into the tragedy and clarified that he was not directly accusing" Vijay, who was addressing the rally when the incident occurred. Annamalai said the state police had failed in crowd management despite prior warnings. The DGP claimed 500 policemen were deployed, but there were less than 100 on the street. Permission was given for a rally in a narrow lane where even ambulances could not enter. Police should think a hundred times before granting such approvals," he told reporters. Calling for accountability, the BJP leader said, The officers responsible must be suspended. Only a CBI inquiry can bring out the truth." He added that crowd mismanagement was a recurring problem in the state and accused the ruling DMK government of negligence. The stampede broke out on Saturday during a public meeting of Vijays Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), where the turnout far exceeded expectations. The actor was forced to halt his address as attendees collapsed amid the surge. In response to the tragedy, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh each to the families of the deceased and Rs 50,000 for the injured from the Prime Ministers National Relief Fund (PMNRF). The unfortunate incident during a political rally in Karur, Tamil Nadu, is deeply saddening," the PMO said in a post on X. Chief Minister MK Stalin has appointed retired Madras High Court judge Justice Aruna Jagadeesan to head a Commission of Inquiry into the incident. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Meanwhile, a petition filed by BJP councillor Uma Anand seeking a CBI probe into the stampede was mentioned before the Madras High Court. Justice N Senthilkumar, however, refused to hear the plea, stating that the matter falls under the category of public interest litigation (PIL). Location : Tamil Nadu, India, India First Published: September 28, 2025, 17:43 IST News india 'Vijay's Fault Is...': Annamalai Questions Timing Of TVK Chief's Karur Rally, Demands CBI Probe Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Human Flood: Eyewitnesses Recall Crowd Chaos At Actor Vijay's Rally That Killed 39 Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: September 28, 2025, 11:23 IST At least 39 died in a stampede at TVK chief and actor Vijay's rally in Karur, Tamil Nadu. Eyewitnesses cited crowd mismanagement and delays. Rapid Read Choose News18 on Google Victims being taken to hospital after a stampede-like situation was witnessed during a rally presided by Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam chief and actor Vijay. (PTI) At least 39 people were killed in a stampede at a rally led by TVK chief and actor Vijay on Saturday in Tamil Nadus Karur, with an eyewitness admitting that the massive crowd could not have been managed. Nothing could have been done to control the crowd," the eyewitness said. While speaking to news agency ANI, an eyewitness, Nanda Kumar, said, We were there ourselves. Nothing could be done to control the crowd. He (Vijay) had said he would arrive in Karur by 11 am, and everyone was informed about it. But when he came, it was much delayed. We pray that everyone who was injured recovers fully and returns home safely. But beyond that, such incidents must be prevented from happening again." Recommended Stories Its hard to understand who is at fault. People had come expecting him to arrive on time; many were accompanied by children, were hungry, or faced difficult situations. Everyone came with the enthusiasm of wanting to see a star. This is deeply distressing." Kumar further emphasised that such events should be carefully planned". Even if proper safety measures were in place, what can anyone do if ten or fifteen times more people show up than expected? This was a serious mistake. Such events should be carefully planned. I pray to the Almighty that the Tamil Nadu government provide proper support to the affected people." Another eyewitness, S Maliga, who lost her husband Shankar Ganesh, said, I asked him not to attend the campaign, but he did. He has now left us all alone. Men and women who preferred to sit on two-wheelers to watch the campaign were trapped, too. As the crowd moved their way out, it was like a human flood; everything standing in their way was pushed aside." We could not pull a middle-aged man out; his leg was struck by a two-wheeler, but a two-year-old boy was saved. I hope he made it alive," Nirmal, a survivor, said. Another eyewitness, Suriya, told ANI, Ambulances couldnt reach the victims. There was barely any space for people to stand, and it took a long time to rescue them." Zakir, a relative of one of the victims, told ANI that the crowd swelled because Vijay, who was scheduled to arrive at 9 a.m., was delayed. Near Thirukoilure, there was an enormous rush, especially with many young people and women. Events like this shouldnt involve women and children. Its extremely difficult and emotionally painful to witness," he said. Meanwhile, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chief and actor Vijay expressed grief over the tragic loss of lives in a stampede at his rally in Karur in Tamil Nadu on Saturday. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all In a post on X, Vijay said, My heart is shattered; I am writhing in unbearable, indescribable pain and sorrow that words cannot express. I extend my deepest condolences and sympathies to the families of my dear brothers and sisters who lost their lives in Karur. I pray for the swift recovery of those receiving treatment in the hospital." (With inputs from ANI) Location : Tamil Nadu, India, India First Published: September 28, 2025, 10:29 IST News india Human Flood: Eyewitnesses Recall Crowd Chaos At Actor Vijay's Rally That Killed 39 Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Key Points BigBear.ai's revenue has been mostly flat in recent years, but extra government funding for border security could be a catalyst that ignites growth. The company ended last quarter in its strongest financial position yet with $248 million of net cash on the balance sheet. This will be a volatile stock until BigBear.ai proves it can win larger government contracts. 10 stocks we like better than BigBear.ai BigBear.ai (NYSE: BBAI) is a leader in providing artificial intelligence (AI) technology for national security. Investor optimism about increasing government investment in AI, and the potential impact on BigBear, has sent the stock up 361% over the last year. President Donald Trump's "big, beautiful bill" could be a catalyst, as it provides substantial funding for spending on defense technology. BigBear.ai believes it is well positioned to benefit, but does this make the stock a buy? Image source: Getty Images. BigBear.ai is aiming for large government deals Revenue has been flat over the last three years. The company reported an 18% year-over-year decrease in revenue in the second quarter, driven by lower volume from certain Army programs. While the loss of revenue from these Army programs was a setback, legislative tailwinds are in BigBear's favor. The bill provides billions of dollars in funding for border security, which is one of BigBear's specialties, where it supplies biometric solutions for traveler processing. BigBear ended last quarter in a solid financial position. It has a net cash position of $248 million on its balance sheet -- the strongest financial position in the company's history. Management intends to invest aggressively in hiring top-tier AI talent and innovation to win a share of the funding going to national security programs. The stock offers significant upside potential from a market cap of just $2.6 billion. But the company will have to prove it is up to the job and win more contracts, which is no guarantee. I would look at the stock like a call option on whether the company can land a big contract. This is a stock for those who are willing to accept high volatility for the potential of explosive returns if BigBear.ai can secure large government deals. Should you buy stock in BigBear.ai right now? Before you buy stock in BigBear.ai, consider this: The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now and BigBear.ai wasnt one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years. On Camera, Vijay Asks Cadres To Look For 9-Year-Old Missing Girl Before Stampede: 'Please Help' Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: September 28, 2025, 17:09 IST At least 40 people lost their lives in a stampede at actor-politician and TVK chief Vijays public rally in Karur on September 27. Rapid Read Choose News18 on Google At least 40 people died at TVK chief Vijay's rally in Karur. (PTI) Tragedy unfolded at TVK chief Vijays mega rally on Saturday as a stampede claimed the lives of nearly 40 people in Karur. A video has surfaced in which Vijay asked his cadres to search for a 9-year-old missing girl during his campaign, just before the stampede took place. Vijay held a massive rally in Karur on Saturday, but arrived six hours later, causing the crowd to swell uncontrollably. Police permission was reportedly for only 10,000 people in Vijays Karur rally, but the actual turnout swelled to nearly 50,000, as per reports. Recommended Stories The restless crowd pushed ahead to catch a glimpse of the actor, breaking through barriers and causing a stampede. Several people fell unconscious due to fatigue after waiting for several hours, prompting Vijay to pause his speech. ALSO READ: Vijays TVK Moves Madras High Court, Alleges Conspiracy After 40 Killed In Karur Stampede Vijay Asks Cadres To Look For Missing Girl In a video posted by PTI, a cadre interrupted Vijays speech to tell him that a girl is missing. Vijay announces that a 9-year-old girl is missing, asking the crowd and his cadres to look for her over the mic. Brothers, please find her. Her name is Ashmika. Police, sir, please help, sir," he told his cadres. An ambulance was seen making its way through the crowd to help someone. VIDEO | Tamil Nadu: TVK leader Vijay asks cadres to search for missing girl during his campaign in Karur.(Source: Third Party) (Full video available on PTI Videos https://t.co/n147TvrpG7) pic.twitter.com/w5WhPE5a2A Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) September 27, 2025 The actor-turned-politician abruptly ended his speech as several people, including children, fainted at the overcrowded rally. Police, please help," he was heard saying as people fell unconscious at his rally in Karur. He also distributed water to people and arranged for ambulances for people who were feeling suffocated in the rally. Following the incident, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over the incident and called the tragic incident deeply saddening." Vijays TVK Moves Madras High Court Meanwhile, the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam approached the Madras High Court seeking a probe into the Karur stampede. The TVK, according to LiveLaw, which first reported the development, is alleging conspiracy and is seeking a suo motu probe or a probe by an independent agency. Vijay on Sunday announced that Rs 20 lakh would be given to the families of those who lost their lives at a stampede. He said he is deeply anguished over the incident, which claimed more than 30 lives and left many others injured. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Tamil Nadu DGP G Venkatraman on Sunday said TVK chief Vijays delayed arrival for his rally led to a surge in the crowds at Karur, which sparked the stampede. He said permission was sought for 10,000 people, and the authorities had estimated a large turnout based on the actor-politicians previous rallies. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin has announced the formation of a commission of inquiry, headed by Justice Aruna Jagadeesan, to probe the stampede. Authorities said the commission will examine all aspects of the tragedy to ensure accountability and prevent similar incidents in the future. About the Author Aveek Banerjee Aveek Banerjee is a Senior Sub Editor at News18. Based in Noida with a Master's in Global Studies, Aveek has more than three years of experience in digital media and news curation, specialising in int... Read More Location : Karur, India, India First Published: September 28, 2025, 17:09 IST News india On Camera, Vijay Asks Cadres To Look For 9-Year-Old Missing Girl Before Stampede: 'Please Help' Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... RSS Completes 100 Years On October 1: PM Modi To Release Postage Stamp, Coin Reported By : News18.com Last Updated: September 28, 2025, 12:41 IST Prime Minister Narendra Modi will release a postage stamp and a coin on the RSS. They will be issued on the eve of the centenary celebrations on October 1 Rapid Read Choose News18 on Google The RSS will mark its centenary year with events beginning from Vijayadashami on October 2. (File Photo: narendramodi.in) The Modi government will be taking a big decision on the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), which completes 100 years on October 1. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will release a postage stamp and a coin on the RSS. They will be issued on the eve of the centenary celebrations on October 1. RSS General Secretary Dattatreya Hosabale may also be present at the event. Recommended Stories In the 126th episode of Mann Ki Baat, PM Narendra Modi said, This Vijayadashami is very special for another reason. This day marks 100 years of the foundation of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh. This journey of a century is as amazing, unprecedented, and inspiring as it is. 100 years ago, when the RSS was founded, the country had been bound in the chains of slavery for centuries." This centuries-long slavery had deeply hurt our self-respect and self-confidence. The worlds oldest civilisation was facing an identity crisis. Our citizens were becoming victims of an inferiority complexThe spirit of sacrifice and service and the teachings of discipline, are the true strength of the Sangh," he said. Today, the RSS has been tirelessly and unstoppably engaged in serving the nation for a hundred years. That is why we see that whenever there is a natural disaster anywhere in the country, RSS volunteers are the first to reach there. This spirit of Nation First always remains paramount in every action and every endeavour of the lives of millions of volunteers. I offer my best wishes to every volunteer who is dedicating himself to the great yagya of serving the nation," the PM said. The RSS will mark its centenary year with events beginning from Vijayadashami on October 2, which will include an address by its chief Mohan Bhagwat in the presence of former president Ramnath Kovind who will be the chief guest. Events to commemorate 100 years of the outfit will take place till Vijayadashami in 2026, RSS Akhil Bhartiya Prachar Pramukh Sunil Ambekar said at a press conference in Reshimbagh. Guests from Ghana, South Africa, Thailand, Indonesia, UK and USA will also take part in the October 2 programme, which will be covered by foreign media, he said, adding there is tremendous enthusiasm among RSS workers for the centenary year celebrations that will be held nationwide. Sarsanghchalak Bhagwat and general secretary Dattatreya Hosabale will be visiting all RSS prants in the country through the centenary year, he said. On the lines of RSS chief Bhagwats three-day Sanvad programme held in Delhi in August, events will be held in Bengaluru, Kolkata and Mumbai, Ambekar added. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all A two-day programme will be held in Bengaluru on November 7-8 this year, in Kolkata on December 21 and in Mumbai on February 6 and 7, the outfits Akhil Bhartiya Prachar Pramukh said. With PTI inputs First Published: September 28, 2025, 12:09 IST News india RSS Completes 100 Years On October 1: PM Modi To Release Postage Stamp, Coin Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Separatist Ecosystem In ICU, But Must Be Eliminated: J&K LG Manoj Sinha At News18 Event Reported By : News18.com Last Updated: September 28, 2025, 14:38 IST Speaking at the Pride of Jammu & Kashmir awards organised by News18JKLH, Manoj Sinha said that the region has achieved remarkable progress under the leadership of PM Modi Rapid Read + Follow us On Google Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha at the Pride of Jammu & Kashmir awards organised by News18JKLH. Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday sent out a strong message against separatism, terrorism, and forces trying to disrupt peace in the Union Territory. Speaking at the Pride of Jammu & Kashmir awards organised by News18JKLH, he said that while the region has achieved remarkable progress under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, there are still elements who attempt to mislead and incite citizens. Recommended Stories It is true that under the leadership of our Honble Prime Minister, the progress that Jammu and Kashmir has achieved in just a few years could not be achieved in the past seven decades. But even now, there are elements in society who incite innocent citizens by arousing emotions. It is the responsibility of the enlightened members of society to confront and expose such people," the LG said. Separatist ecosystem must be eliminated The LG underlined that separatist forces had been weakened but needed to be completely rooted out. The ecosystem of separatist elements is now in ICU, but we must ensure that not a single separatist element remains alive in society. There is an old saying that one dirty fish spoils the entire pond. I believe that one separatist element destroys the peace and prosperity of the entire society," he remarked. He urged people to actively report such elements to the police so that they can face the strictest punishment under the law". He also made a pointed appeal to those who hold or have held constitutional positions, asking them to stop provoking public emotions and instead contribute positively to nation-building. A changing Jammu and Kashmir Reflecting on the transformation of the last five to six years, the LG noted how the regions morale, once broken by cross-border terrorism and separatism, has been restored. Lal Chowk had a different identity, and Pulwama was only known for terrorism. Today, the tricolour waving high at Lal Chowk symbolises the aspirations of a new Jammu and Kashmir. Today, the youth on the streets of Pulwama are raising their voices against terrorism and separatism. After the Pahalgam attack, the entire Jammu and Kashmir rose against terrorism. I believe this is no small change," he said. He credited the winds of change" to the resilience of society and the determination of the youth, who are now rejecting separatist narratives and embracing development. Free hand to crush terrorism Reiterating the governments uncompromising stance against terror, the LG said that the Army, security agencies, and Jammu and Kashmir Police have been given a free hand" to destroy terror networks. I have full faith in their valour, and the day is not far when Jammu and Kashmir will be completely free from terrorism," he said, praising the security forces for their sacrifices and courage. Citizens role in securing peace Calling peace the foundation of development, the LG reminded citizens that they too bear responsibility in the fight against terror. Without peace, development is impossible. That is why I believe it is also the responsibility of the citizens to support our police forces and army personnel in the fight against terrorism. We must wipe away the stain of terrorism and separatism from society. Only then will we be able to build a golden Jammu and Kashmir for future generations," he said. Saluting the pride of Jammu & Kashmir Concluding his address, the LG once again congratulated the awardees who were honoured for their service, sacrifice, and courage. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Quoting the Atharvaveda, he said: Kritam me dakshine haste, jayo me savya ahatih" meaning, may there be hard work in my right hand and victory in my left. For all the honoured warriors of service, I wish the same hard work and victory," the LG said, saluting them as an inspiration for society. About the Author Tejinder Singh Sodhi A defence journalist, Tejinder Singh Sodhi has the distinction of being the only Indian civilian to have studied at the US Army Command and General Staff College at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. In his c... Read More Location : Jammu and Kashmir, India, India First Published: September 28, 2025, 14:38 IST News india Separatist Ecosystem In ICU, But Must Be Eliminated: J&K LG Manoj Sinha At News18 Event Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Shashi Tharoor's Ode To Idli: Not 'Steamed Regret', But 'A Cloud, A Tagore Sangeet, A Tendulkar Century' Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: September 28, 2025, 12:04 IST It seems Congress MP Shashi Tharoor's love for the English language encompasses his admiration for the idli the classic south Indian breakfast/tiffin favourite Congress MP Shashi Tharoor posted what looked like an AI-generated image of himself preparing idlis in a kitchen setup, wearing traditional attire. (Image: @ShashiTharoor/X/Shutterstock) If Congress leader Shashi Tharoor has his way, you would be gobbling up some rather poetic" idlis if he plays host for breakfast. It seems Tharoors love for the English language encompasses his admiration for the idli the classic south Indian breakfast/tiffin favourite, now faithfully adopted by most parts of India, if not all. And he expressed it in a heartfelt ode to the delicate, weightless morsel of rice and lentil". Recommended Stories If Jane Austens Mr Darcy considered poetry as the food of love", it looks like our dictionary-wielding MP from Kerala considers a truly great idli" akin to poetry. Hence, he wasted no time in schooling an internet user, who called his beloved idli a steamed regret" albeit in his signature style. Calling the internet user a poor soul", Tharoor he lamented that he must never have had a good one" so as to display such an aversion to idli, which he described as one of the finest achievements of South Indian culture". He said the idli is a cloud, a whisper, a perfect dream", and this sublime creation" is the culinary equivalent to a Beethoven symphony, a Tagore sangeet, a Husain painting, a Tendulkar century" when eaten with all the right accompaniments". Poor soul has clearly never had a good one. A truly great idli is a cloud, a whisper, a perfect dream of the perfectibility of human civilisation. It's a sublime creation, a delicate, weightless morsel of rice and lentil, steamed to an ethereal fluffiness that melts on the https://t.co/J4NE2ddgua Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) September 27, 2025 top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Poor soul has clearly never had a good one. A truly great idli is a cloud, a whisper, a perfect dream of the perfectibility of human civilisation. Its a sublime creation, a delicate, weightless morsel of rice and lentil, steamed to an ethereal fluffiness that melts on the tongue. With the right accompaniments, it is the culinary equivalent of a Beethoven symphony, a Tagore sangeet, a Husain painting, a Tendulkar century. To call such a thing regret" is to have no soul, no palate, no appreciation for the finest achievements of South Indian culture. I can only feel pity for" Tharoor wrote in a post on X, replying to a conversation between two internet users on the merits of idli-dosa breakfasts. The Congress leader even posted what looked like an AI-generated image of himself preparing idlis in a kitchen setup, wearing traditional attire. So, it is now safe to assume that Tharoors love for the idli transcends the daily trappings of a mundane breakfast item to where it can be considered high art. About the Author Oindrila Mukherjee Oindrila Mukherjee is a senior sub-editor who works for the rewrite and breaking news desks. Her nine years of experience in print and digital journalism range from editing and reporting to writing im... Read More First Published: September 28, 2025, 11:58 IST News india Shashi Tharoor's Ode To Idli: Not 'Steamed Regret', But 'A Cloud, A Tagore Sangeet, A Tendulkar Century' Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Sonam Wangchuk's Wife Trashes Pak-Link Claim, Blames Security Forces For Ladakh Violence Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: September 28, 2025, 18:42 IST Sonam Wangchuk's wife Gitanjali Angmo refutes Pakistan link and violence claims, highlighting his climate activism and peaceful protests in Ladakh. Activist Sonam Wangchuk Jailed climate activist Sonam Wangchuks wife has refuted allegations of her husbands Pakistan link, financial irregularities, and incitement of violence, stating that his overseas visits were on the invitation of reputed universities and institutions, and focused on climate issues. We attended a conference organised by the United Nations on climate change. The glaciers at the top of the Himalayas do not see whether they are flowing into Pakistan or India," Gitanjali Angmo told news agency PTI. Recommended Stories She further said Wangchuks presence at the Breathe Pakistan conference in February was part of a multinational collaboration which was organised by the United Nations Pakistan and Dawn Media. Terming the charge that Wangchuk incited the violence in Ladalh as misplaced", Angmo told the news agency that he has been protesting in the "most Gandhian way possible" and the "situation escalated" on September 24 due to the actions of the CRPF. Sonam was not aware of any non-peaceful plans. But when CRPF personnel fired tear gas shells, the youth reacted, and the situation escalated," the co-founder of Himalayan Institute of Alternative Learning (HIAL) said. She further said that she has not been able to communicate with her husband since his detention. Claiming that they have not been handed over a copy of the detention order, Angmo said, They promised to send it on Friday. We will take legal recourse." Addressing allegations of provocative speeches, Angmo said Wangchuks words had been mistranslated and taken out of context. She also rejected the anti-national label, citing his support for Indian Army shelters and advocacy for boycotting Chinese goods. "We have videos to show that the students and the youth were just there for a peaceful protest. Sonam did not even know about (a non-peaceful plan)," she claimed, adding, "He only knew about a peaceful protest. But when the CRPF personnel fired tear gas shells, the youth reacted by pelting stones, and the whole situation escalated." She further questioned the response by the security forces, saying, "My question is, who gave the CRPF the right to open fire? Why should you open fire on your own people, on your own youth?" Ladakh Unrest Activist Sonam Wangchuk was arrested on Friday by Leh Police under the National Security Act (NSA), days after violent protests in Ladakh killed four people and left over 90 injured. He was shifted to Rajasthans Jodhpur jail after being arrested. Wangchuk has been accused of inciting people through his provocative statements during his hunger strike for Ladakhs inclusion in the Sixth schedule and for statehood. The protest, led by Wangchuk along with the Leh Apex Body and the Kargil Democratic Alliance, seeks full statehood and inclusion under the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution for Ladakh. To press these demands, Wangchuk also started a hunger strike on September 10, ending it after 15 days on September 24, citing concerns over rising violence. The government blamed Wangchuk for provocative speeches (including references to Arab Spring-style protests" and Gen Z protests in Nepal") that allegedly incited the mob. The Home Ministry has also cancelled the FCRA certificate of Sonam Wangchuks NGO. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all In an official statement on Wednesday, the Ministry of Home Affairs said, A hunger strike was started by Sonam Wangchuk on September 10 stating the demand of (bringing the UT under) 6th schedule (of constitution) and statehood for Ladakh." (With inputs from PTI) About the Author Shobhit Gupta Shobhit Gupta is a sub-editor at News18.com and covers India and International news. He is interested in day to day political affairs in India and geopolitics. He earned his BA Journalism (Hons) degre... Read More First Published: September 28, 2025, 18:42 IST News india Sonam Wangchuk's Wife Trashes Pak-Link Claim, Blames Security Forces For Ladakh Violence Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... TVK Flouted Rules, Police Were Ready To Handle Crowd: Tamil Nadu Top Cop On Karur Stampede Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: September 28, 2025, 22:26 IST Karur Stampede at TVK rally claimed at least 40 lives. ADGP S Davidson Devasirvatham said TVK flouted event rules. Case registered, investigation ongoing. Tamil Nadu DGP G Venkatraman said permission was sought for 10,000 people, and the authorities had estimated a large turnout based on TVK chief Vijay's previous rallies. (Image: PTI) Karur Stampede: Tamil Nadu Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) on Sunday said that Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) flouted some rules as laid for the event, and a case has been registered, and further investigation is going on. While addressing a press briefing regarding the tragic stampede that occurred during a rally organized by TVK in Karur, which claimed at least 40 lives and left several injured, ADGP S Davidson Devasirvatham countered the partys claim that stone-pelting triggered the stampede, clarifying that no such incident had occurred. Recommended Stories According to the ADGP, the rally venue was decided based on a request from TVK, and police had suggested a change of location to manage the anticipated crowd better. We told the TVK organisers to consider an alternate venue that had less crowd density, but they refused to listen," he said. The police official further stated that the crowd began to swell by late evening, with people from both Karur and Namakkal districts flocking in large numbers to catch a glimpse of actor-turned-politician Vijay. The TVK had announced that he would arrive at 12:45 pm, but it got delayed by more than five hours. Devasirvatham said that permission had been sought for a gathering of 12,000 people, and sufficient police personnel had been deployed accordingly. Over 500 police personnel were deployed for the event. We were fully prepared to handle large crowds, even up to 27,000 people," the ADGP said, adding, We had adequate lighting, and there was no incident of stone pelting." However, some conditions laid out for event management were reportedly violated. Yes, the party violated some rules," the ADGP admitted when asked whether TVK had flouted regulations. He added that a case has been registered. The names of those to be booked will be revealed only after further investigation. Karur Stampede A political rally led by actor-turned-politician Vijay in Tamil Nadus Karur took a tragic turn after a stampede broke out that left at least 40 dead and several others injured. Visuals shared online show a massive crowd gathered at night for a political rally. Thousands of people were seen packed tightly on both sides of the road, cheering and waving, while a large campaign vehicle made its way through the centre. The crowd swelled and became uncontrollable, even as Vijay was addressing the gathering, leading to people fainting. The fainted people were shifted to hospitals in ambulances, and some of them are reportedly battling for their lives. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Following the incident, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over the incident and called the tragic incident deeply saddening." Taking stock of the situation, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin said that he has directed immediate medical assistance for the victims. About the Author Shobhit Gupta Shobhit Gupta is a sub-editor at News18.com and covers India and International news. He is interested in day to day political affairs in India and geopolitics. He earned his BA Journalism (Hons) degre... Read More Location : Karur, India, India First Published: September 28, 2025, 16:17 IST News india TVK Flouted Rules, Police Were Ready To Handle Crowd: Tamil Nadu Top Cop On Karur Stampede Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... UP Man Strangles 14-Year-Old Daughter For Stealing Rs 500, Body Found In Canal Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: September 28, 2025, 13:21 IST A 40-year-old father was detained for allegedly strangling his minor daughter to death for stealing Rs 500. The body was recovered in canal. Representative Image In a shocking incident reported from Uttar Pradeshs Bulandshahr, a 40-year-old man allegedly strangled his minor daughter to death for stealing Rs 500. As per the police, the man was detained after the girls body was recovered from a canal. The deceased girl, a class seventh student, is a resident of Bichaula village. Recommended Stories As per a report by PTI, on Friday, at around 4 pm, the police received a call regarding the body of a girl in a school uniform found in the bushes under a bridge in the Anupshahr police station area of the district. Upon arrival, the police began their investigation and recovered the girls body. The initial probe revealed that she had gone to school on Thursday, and her father, Ajay Sharma, had picked her up after school. During the fathers interrogation, it was disclosed that while driving the girl home from school, he took her to his field, allegedly strangled her to death with a scarf, and then threw her body into a canal. Her school bag was recovered from the field following the fathers confession. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Upon questioning the father, it was revealed that the girl had been stealing money from home for the past few days, leading to arguments between the parents. After allegedly killing his daughter, the man informed the school that his daughter had gone to stay with relatives and would not return to school for the next three to four days. About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, ... Read More Location : Bulandshahr, India, India First Published: September 28, 2025, 13:16 IST News india UP Man Strangles 14-Year-Old Daughter For Stealing Rs 500, Body Found In Canal Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Utterly Shameful: BJP Alleges West Bengal Govt Obstructing Durga Puja In Op Sindoor Pandal Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: September 28, 2025, 11:41 IST Amit Malviya slammed the West Bengal govt for obstructing Durga Puja at Santosh Mitra Square, inaugurated by Amit Shah. Rapid Read + Follow us On Google Visuals from the pandal. (X/@amitmalviya) BJP IT Cell chief Amit Malviya criticised the West Bengal government, calling its alleged efforts to stop the Durga Puja at Santosh Mitra Square utterly shameful." The Puja this year was inaugurated by Union Home Minister Amit Shah. Malviya alleged that the TMC-led Mamata Banerjee administration has been actively obstructing the worship of Goddess Durga, citing attempts to stop the Puja before it began and opposition to the light-and-sound show Operation Sindoor." According to him, barricades are being set up across the streets of Kolkata to prevent devotees from participating in the celebrations. Recommended Stories The way the West Bengal government is making every possible effort to stop the Durga Puja at Santosh Mitra Square, inaugurated this year by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, is utterly shameful," he wrote on X. The governments moves are aimed at depriving the people of India of their national pride," Malviya said. He added that the situation has escalated to the point where Puja organisers may be forced to immerse the idol before Dashami if the obstructions continue. Malviya warned that allowing such anti-Hindu actions" in the heart of Kolkata could invite fierce opposition against the Mamata administration. Amit Shah inaugurated the Durga Puja pandal at Santosh Mitra Square in Kolkata on Friday, praying to the goddess and expressing his hope that the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections bring a government that can restore the states lost Sonar Bangla" glory. Shah spoke about the vision of a safe, prosperous, and peaceful Bengal," reflecting the dreams of Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore. I have prayed to Maa Durga that the next government should work to build a Sonar Bangla a Bengal that is secure, prosperous, and abundant, fulfilling the vision of Kavi Guru Tagore," he said. Shah also extended Durga Puja greetings to the people of West Bengal and across India, highlighting the festivals significance as a cultural treasure celebrated worldwide. This nine-day Navratri festival is not only cherished in Bengal and across India but admired globally. For nine days, people dedicate themselves to the worship of Shakti, showcasing the rich tradition of Bengal to the world," he said. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all On the one hand, the organisers of the Operation Sindoor pandal are planning to move court against the police, alleging harassment. On the other hand, police sources told News18: There is no ban. The organisers simply have to follow the Honble High Courts orders regarding sound levels. They must also ensure that visitors keep moving continuously so that no stampede-like situation arises. Yesterday, people were stopping for two to three minutes to watch a video, which created huge pressure. The organisers themselves should know the permissible decibel limits." Meanwhile, the Trinamool Congress (TMC) has dismissed the BJPs allegations that the administration is trying to stop the Durga Puja at Operation Sindoor. Speaking to News18, TMC spokesperson Riju Dutta said: Sudhangshu ji, if the BJP is spreading the blatant lie that the administration is trying to stop the Operation Sindoor pandal, then how did Amit Shah come here to inaugurate the Puja? The BJP has always claimed that the Bengal government does not allow Durga Puja, yet their senior leader inaugurated this pandal. People inside were waiting to watch a video, which caused the crowd to stop and led to a stampede-like situation. If something happens, who will take responsibility?" First Published: September 28, 2025, 09:28 IST News india Utterly Shameful: BJP Alleges West Bengal Govt Obstructing Durga Puja In Op Sindoor Pandal Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Vijay's Delay, Crowd Swell, Lack Of Water & Food: What Caused Karur Stampede That Killed 39? Curated By : News18.com Edited By: Oindrila Mukherjee Last Updated: September 28, 2025, 09:51 IST Calling the stampede an "unfortunate" incident, the Tamil Nadu DGP said while the crowds swelled, people also lacked sufficient food and water waiting for Vijay under the hot sun Tamil Nadu DGP G Venkatraman said permission was sought for 10,000 people, and the authorities had estimated a large turnout based on TVK chief Vijay's previous rallies. (Image: PTI) Tamil Nadu DGP G Venkatraman on Sunday said TVK chief Vijays delayed arrival for his rally led to a surge in the crowds at Karur, where 39 were killed in a stampede. Calling the stampede an unfortunate" incident, Venkatraman said while the crowds swelled, people also lacked sufficient food and water waiting for Vijay under the hot sun. Recommended Stories He said permission was sought for 10,000 people, and the authorities had estimated a large turnout based on the actor-politicians previous rallies. Even though permission was sought for 10,000 people, we knew the crowd would exceed that," Venkatraman told reporters. The police chief said TVKs social media handles announced Vijays arrival much earlier than his actual time of arrival, which led to a crowd surge. He said while TVK had requested smaller venues, officials allocated the same 1.2 lakh sq ft site that had recently hosted an AIADMK rally, projecting a higher turnout. Permission (for the meeting) was sought for between 3 pm and 10 pm. The TVK Twitter account said he will come at 12 and the crowd started coming in from 11 am. He came at 7.40 pm. The people lacked sufficient food and water under the hot sun. Our intention is not to blame anyone, but we are just stating the facts," he said. Earlier, officials said at least 50,000 people had gathered at the venue, far exceeding the expected 10,000. The sudden surge forced Vijay to halt his speech as several attendees, including party workers and children, fainted. Asked if there were only 500" police personnel on bandobast duty, Venkatraman said the meeting venue was a public road and more police cover would have meant people would not have sufficient space. He said the organisers were clearly told about crowd and related issues and the police are only extra help", and there cannot be added police presence anticipating such a surge in crowd. Chief Minister MK Stalin described the incident as worrying" on social media and said he had directed senior ministers to coordinate relief efforts. Stalin has announced the formation of a commission of inquiry, headed by Justice Aruna Jagadeesan, to probe the stampede. Authorities said the commission will examine all aspects of the tragedy to ensure accountability and prevent similar incidents in the future. WHAT EYEWITNESSES SAID Many eyewitnesses, who were part of the rally, said nothing could have been done to control the crowd" . We were there ourselves. Nothing could be done to control the crowd. He (Vijay) had said he would arrive in Karur by 11 am, and everyone was informed about it. But when he came, it was much delayed. We pray that everyone who was injured recovers fully and returns home safely. But beyond that, such incidents must be prevented from happening again," an eyewitness Nanda Kumar told news agency ANI. Its hard to understand who is at fault. People had come expecting him to arrive on time; many were accompanied by children, were hungry, or faced difficult situations. Everyone came with the enthusiasm of wanting to see a star. This is deeply distressing." Kumar said such events should be carefully planned". Even if proper safety measures were in place, what can anyone do if 10 or 15 times more people show up than expected? This was a serious mistake. Such events should be carefully planned. I pray to the Almighty that the Tamil Nadu government provide proper support to the affected people." Another eyewitness, Suriya, told ANI: Ambulances couldnt get in. There wasnt enough space for people to stand. It took a very long time to bring people out." Zakir, a relative of one of the victims, said Vijay was supposed to arrive at 9 am but he did not show up at that time. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Because of that, there was a huge crowd Near Thirukoilure, especially, there was a huge rush with many youngsters and women. In meetings like this, women and children should not be brought along. Please, its very difficult and emotionally painful to witness," he said. In a post on X, Vijay expressed grief over the tragic loss of lives in the stampede. My heart is shattered; I am writhing in unbearable, indescribable pain and sorrow that words cannot express. I extend my deepest condolences and sympathies to the families of my dear brothers and sisters who lost their lives in Karur. I pray for the swift recovery of those receiving treatment in the hospital," he wrote. About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, ... Read More First Published: September 28, 2025, 09:41 IST News india Vijay's Delay, Crowd Swell, Lack Of Water & Food: What Caused Karur Stampede That Killed 39? Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Tamil Nadu Rally Stampede: Superstar Vijays Aide Named In Police Case Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: September 28, 2025, 11:57 IST Two senior TVK leaders were booked for culpable homicide after a Karur rally stampede killed 39 and injured nearly 100 at Vijays event. Rapid Read Choose News18 on Google Superstar Vijays Aide Bussy Anand Booked After Deadly Tamil Nadu Rally Stampede Kills 39. (X/@BussyAnand) Two senior leaders of actor-politician Vijays TVK have been booked for culpable homicide not amounting to murder, following a stampede at a Karur rally yesterday that killed 39 and injured nearly 100. N Anand, popularly known as Bussy Anand, and CT Nirmal Kumar are booked along with the Karur district secretary. They have booked under five sections, including U/S 105, 110, 125 (B), 223 R/W 3 of TNPPDL ACT. Recommended Stories Meanwhile, the Karur Town police on Saturday registered a case against Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagams (TVK) Karur West district secretary V.P. Mathiyazhagan in connection with the stampede. According to the police, the case was filed under sections 109,110, 125b, 223 of BNS for alleged violation of norms during the campaign event at Velysamupuram. The meeting, held at Velusamypuram, began at 7:20 p.m. and drew several thousand people who had been packed into congested roads since the morning, waiting to see and hear Vijay. As the crowdmostly young peoplerushed toward the actor-turned-politicians vehicle, those who had been standing at the rally since 10 a.m. were forced to step aside. With little space to move, confusion quickly escalated into a stampede. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all TVK chief and actor Vijay expressed his condolences to the families of the victims. My heart is shattered; I am writhing in unbearable, indescribable pain and sorrow that words cannot express," he said in his first statement. I extend my deepest condolences and sympathies to the families of my dear brothers and sisters who lost their lives in Karur. I pray for the swift recovery of those receiving treatment in the hospital." Chief Minister MK Stalin announced a compensation of Rs 10 lakh to the families of those who died in the stampede, and Rs 1 lakh for those who were injured and are being treated in hospitals. The State government has announced a commission to be headed by retired judge Aruna Jagadeesan to probe the circumstances that led to the stampede, Stalin said. Location : Tamil Nadu, India, India First Published: September 28, 2025, 10:45 IST News india Tamil Nadu Rally Stampede: Superstar Vijays Aide Named In Police Case Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Cathie Wood, head of Ark Investment Management, is known for betting on tech companies she believes can disrupt the future. But she doesnt hesitate to shuffle her portfolio, sometimes trimming or adding to positions within days of making a move. Thats what she just did, selling shares of a hot tech name only a week after buying them. Woods funds have experienced a volatile ride this year, swinging from sharp losses to strong gains. In January and February, the Ark funds rallied as investors bet on the Trump administration's potential deregulation that could benefit Woods tech bets. But the momentum faded in March and April, with the funds trailing the market as top holdings slid amid growing concerns over the macroeconomy and trade policies. Now, the Arks funds are showing solid performance again. As of Sept. 26, the flagship Ark Innovation ETF (ARKK) is up 44% year-to-date, far outpacing the S&P 500s 13% gain. Wood's remarkable return of 153% in 2020 helped build her reputation and attract loyal followers. Her strategy can lead to sharp gains during bull markets but also painful losses in downturns, like in 2022, when ARKK dropped more than 60%. Those swings have weighed on her long-term results. As of Sept. 26, the Ark Innovation ETF has delivered a five-year annualized return of negative 1.3%, while the S&P 500 has an annualized return of 16.8% over the same period. In the five days through Sept. 25, the Ark Innovation ETF saw about $1.5 billion in net outflows, according to ETF research firm VettaFi.Image source: Fallon/AFP via Getty Images Cathie Woods investment strategy explained Woods investment strategy is straightforward: Her Ark ETFs typically buy shares in emerging high-tech companies in fields such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, biomedical technology, and robotics. She thinks these companies have the potential to reshape industries and bring outsized long-term returns, but their volatility leads to major fluctuations in Ark funds' values. Related: Cathie Wood's net worth: The Ark Invest CEO's wealth & income Over the 10 years ending in 2024, the Ark Innovation ETF wiped out $7 billion in investor wealth, according to an analysis by Morningstars analyst Amy Arnott. That made it the third-biggest wealth destroyer among mutual funds and ETFs in Arnotts ranking. Still, Wood has been bullish on the market. In a letter to investors published in late April, she dismissed predictions of a recession dragging into 2026 and struck an optimistic tone for tech stocks. "During the current turbulent transition in the U.S., we think consumers and businesses are likely to accelerate the shift to technologically enabled innovation platforms, including artificial intelligence, robotics, energy storage, blockchain technology, and multiomics sequencing," she said. Will Get Beaten Up Like In Bareilly: CM Yogi Issues Warning Amid I Love Muhammad Row Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: September 28, 2025, 18:35 IST CM Yogi Adityanath referred to the lathi-charge during the clashes in Bareilly and said miscreants would face a similar fate if such violent protests resurface UP CM Yogi Adityanath | File Image Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Sunday strongly criticised those involved in the recent violence in Bareilly and warned of stern police action. Addressing a public meeting in Balrampur, he referred to the lathi-charge during the clashes in Bareilly and said miscreants would face a similar fate if such violent protests resurface. Recommended Stories A few individuals should not be allowed to spoil the environment. These are the same people who brought an identity crisis to Uttar Pradesh along with the corrupt governments. There were no investments or developments in the State due to these people," Yogi said. Now they are adopting new tactics. But they must remember that we are more prepared than they think. They will be beaten just as they were beaten in Bareilly," the Chief Minister added. Condemning the I love Muhammad" posters, CM Yogi said that the fools" were ruining childrens lives. These fools dont even know that symbols of faith are honoured, not loved. Faith isnt something to be displayed at crossroads; its a matter of conscience. Some people are creating chaos in society by giving small children posters of I Love Muhammad. They dont even realise that their own lives are already ruined, but theyre hell-bent on ruining the lives of these children as well," he said. Warning against attempts to create disorder, he said, The government will never accept this kind of anarchy. Anyone who attempts to take the law into their own hands, be informed in advance that we will issue them a ticket to hell without asking. This anarchy is unacceptable." top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all The remarks came after protests outside Ala Hazrat Dargah and the residence of Ittehad-e-Millat Council chief Maulana Tauqeer Raza Khan in Bareilly turned violent. Earlier, UP Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) Range Ajay Kumar Sahni said that Maulana Tauqeer Raza, identified as the main conspirator behind the violence, has been arrested and sent to judicial custody. Location : Uttar Pradesh, India, India First Published: September 28, 2025, 18:35 IST News india Will Get Beaten Up Like In Bareilly: CM Yogi Issues Warning Amid I Love Muhammad Row Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Even Without Cigarettes: Why Women Over 40 Are Developing COPD Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: September 28, 2025, 10:03 IST Although cigarette smoking remains the single largest risk factor, there is proof that shows many women, over the age of 40, are developing COPD even in those who are non-smokers While cigarette smoking remains the leading risk factor, evidence shows that many women over 40 are developing COPD even if they have never smoked. COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease is often considered as a smokers disease. Although cigarette smoking remains the single largest risk factor, there is evidence that shows many women, especially over the age of 40, are developing COPD even in those who are non-smokers. It is important to understand the factors that aggravate the problem. Dr. K Thiruppathi, HOD & Senior Consultant, Pulmonology, SIMS Hospital, Chennai shares why women over 40 are developing COPD despite never smoking: Recommended Stories Risk Factors Beyond Smoking Indoor Air Pollution: Women who cook using wood, cow dung or charcoal in improperly ventilated kitchens are at high risk. In rural India, indoor smoke from traditional cooking stoves or open fire irritates the airways. Outdoor pollution: Pollution from industrial fumes, traffic emissions, and dust also contributes as a major risk. Long-term exposure blocks the airways and damages lung tissue. Occupational Exposures: Occupation that requires inhaling dust, vapors, or fine particulates for instance small scale industry, textile mining and small-scale industry increase the possibility of COPD even in non-smokers. Genetic Condition: Although rare in India, genetic conditions like alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency can weaken the lungs natural defense mechanisms, making individuals more vulnerable to early-onset of COPD. In women, smaller airway size further amplifies the damage caused by the same level of environmental exposure, leading to a higher risk of disease progression. History of Asthma and Lung Infections: Childhood respiratory infections, asthma or lung underdevelopment due to poor maternal health, low birth weight can impact lung functionality. Over time, this progresses to COPD. Age and Biological Differences: Lung function naturally declines after 40. In women, hormonal changes may impact inflammation or how well the lung repairs itself. In some cases, women tend to report the diagnosis later, often because the symptoms are not aggressive or related to aging or heart ailments. Symptoms to look for and why many go unidentified: Chronic cough, sputum production, wheezing, chest infections, and shortness of breath on exertion. Although in non-smoking women, symptoms often show slowly. Many assume breathlessness is due to getting older weight gain. Delay in diagnosis is due to a lack of awareness. What Can Be Done If you are a woman over 40 years, get yourself evaluated with lung function tests. Avoid second hand smoking, wear masks when needed, use cleaner cooking fuels, avoid venturing out to polluted places and improve ventilation indoors. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all If you are prone to infections, keep a check on your nutrition. Maintain an active lifestyle. Get treatment for asthma. COPD is not only a smokers disease; get correct information from your healthcare provider. About the Author Swati Chaturvedi Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she's a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in N... Read More First Published: September 28, 2025, 10:03 IST News lifestyle health-and-fitness Even Without Cigarettes: Why Women Over 40 Are Developing COPD The Silent Threat To Vision: Why Retinal Diseases Often Go Undiagnosed Until Its Too Late Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: September 28, 2025, 15:42 IST Retinal diseases often progress silently, making early detection critical. Experts emphasize regular screenings, teleophthalmology as key to preventing avoidable vision loss Retinal diseases are largely silent in their progression but devastating if ignored Retinal diseases are a silent yet serious threat to vision, often progressing without noticeable symptoms. The retina, a light-sensitive layer at the back of the eyeball, is responsible for capturing everything we see, focusing images passed through the cornea and lens. Despite its critical role, diseases affecting the retina often go undetected until significant damage has occurred. Understanding Retinal Disorders Recommended Stories Dr. Dhwani Shah, Vitreo-retina specialist (MBBS, DNB, FVR), practising at Dr. Jains Eye Clinic, Bangalore, and consulting at Practo, explains: Conditions such as diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration (AMD), retinal vein occlusion, and retinal detachment are among the most common causes of visual problems. These diseases may develop gradually and painlessly, making early warning signs easy to miss. Blurred vision or image distortion may only become noticeable when damage is already advanced and irreversible." She emphasizes the importance of preventive care: With regular eye check-ups and timely treatment, these conditions can often be prevented or effectively managed." In India, the challenge is compounded by limited access to regular eye screenings, particularly in rural areas. Even in urban populations, preventive eye care is often overlooked unless a visible issue arises. This delay in diagnosis can result in avoidable vision impairment or even blindness," Dr. Shah notes. Tele-screening and Risk Factors To combat this silent progression, tele-screening is gaining importance. Tele-screening can help in diagnosing and monitoring conditions like diabetic retinopathy and retinopathy of prematurity, an eye disease affecting premature babies that can lead to vision impairment or blindness," says Dr. Shah. People with diabetes, hypertension, or a family history of eye disease are particularly at risk and should undergo annual retinal screenings. Many believe good vision means healthy eyes, overlooking the silent nature of retinal diseases. Raising awareness about comprehensive eye examinations is therefore crucial." Advances in diagnostic technology and therapeutic interventions have made it possible to manage many retinal conditions effectively, preserving both sight and quality of life. Vision loss is not an inevitable part of aging," Dr. Shah adds. The key lies in proactive eye health monitoring and public education." The National Perspective Padmaja Kumari Rani, Head of Teleophthalmology and Vitreoretinal Surgery, LVPEI, provides a broader perspective, India continues to be called the blindness capital of the world, accounting for nearly one-third of the global blind population. What is deeply worrying is that vision loss is increasingly striking people in their most productive years. This not only impacts individuals and families but also affects livelihoods, communities, and the countrys economic productivity." She points out that public conversations on eye health in India often focus on cataract and glaucoma. While these are critical issues, they do not capture the whole picture. Retinal disorders, particularly diabetic retinopathy, are silently and rapidly becoming a major threat. As India records one of the fastest-growing diabetes populations in the world, diabetic retinopathy is emerging as a leading cause of avoidable blindness." Current statistics underscore the urgency: nearly 40 lakh people in India suffer from severe diabetic retinopathy with an immediate threat of going blind, yet only about 2 lakh are receiving treatment. The Path Forward The consequences of inaction are far-reaching," says Rani. Retinal disorders not only cause irreversible vision loss but also impose a huge socio-economic burden on families and the healthcare system. To address this, it is critical to integrate retinal screening for diabetic retinopathy into national non-communicable disease (NCD) programs, insurance plans, and annual health check-ups. Strengthening infrastructure, building skilled capacity, and ensuring accessible screening services at primary and secondary care levels will go a long way in preventing blindness." top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all She adds, Screening via retinal (fundus) photography or dilated fundus examination is a must. With the right interventions at the right time, diabetic retinopathy is both detectable and treatable. Raising awareness, making screening routine, and embedding it into health programs are essential steps if we are to protect the vision and productivity of millions of Indians." Retinal diseases are largely silent in their progression but devastating if ignored. Experts agree that proactive monitoring, timely diagnosis, and widespread public awareness are key to preserving vision. With advances in screening and treatment, preventable blindness can be significantly reduced, ensuring healthier, more productive lives for millions across India. About the Author Swati Chaturvedi Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she's a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in N... Read More First Published: September 28, 2025, 15:42 IST News lifestyle health-and-fitness The Silent Threat To Vision: Why Retinal Diseases Often Go Undiagnosed Until Its Too Late Selena Gomez Weds Benny Blanco In A Timeless Custom Ralph Lauren Gown Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: September 28, 2025, 08:59 IST Selena Gomez married Benny Blanco in a Ralph Lauren wedding gown with floral appliques, a halter neck, and an elegant open-back design. Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco Tie the Knot in a Romantic Ceremony Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco are officially husband and wife. The pop star and the music producer exchanged vows on September 27, 2025, marking the milestone with an intimate celebration that radiated timeless style. Taking to Instagram on Saturday, Selena shared a series of romantic wedding photos with her new husband. In the caption, she simply wrote their wedding date, 9.27.25," accompanied by two white heart emojis. The photos captured tender moments of the newlyweds holding hands and embracingimages that quickly sent fans into a frenzy of congratulations. Recommended Stories A Wedding Dress to Remember For her big day, Selena chose a breathtaking custom Ralph Lauren gown. The sleeveless dress featured a sophisticated halter neckline and an open back, perfectly balancing elegance with allure. Delicate floral appliques traced the flowing satin fabric, while soft draping across the bodice highlighted her silhouette. A graceful train followed her down the aisle, lending an air of drama to the otherwise classic design. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Selena Gomez (@selenagomez) Glamour with a Retro Touch Channeling old Hollywood charm, Selena styled her hair in soft waves that framed her face beautifully. She completed the look with understated diamond earrings, minimal yet striking ensuring the gown remained the centerpiece. The choice of Ralph Lauren was no surprise; Selena has often turned to the fashion house for major moments, most recently wearing the designer to the Academy Awards earlier in 2025. On his part, Benny Blanco also wore Ralph Lauren, perfectly complementing the brides look. From Romance to I Do" top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Selena and Bennys love story has been closely followed since they made their relationship public in December 2023. They announced their engagement a year later, in December 2024, and now, less than a year after, the couple has stepped into their new chapter together as husband and wife. With her chic gown, timeless beauty, and the glowing joy of love, Selenas wedding will be remembered as one of the years most iconic celebrity moments. About the Author Swati Chaturvedi Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she's a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in N... Read More First Published: September 28, 2025, 08:59 IST News lifestyle Selena Gomez Weds Benny Blanco In A Timeless Custom Ralph Lauren Gown CNN name, logo and all associated elements and 2024 Cable News Network LP, LLLP. A Time Warner Company. All rights reserved. CNN and the CNN logo are registered marks of Cable News Network, LP LLLP, displayed with permission. Use of the CNN name and/or logo on or as part of NEWS18.com does not derogate from the intellectual property rights of Cable News Network in respect of them. Copyright Network18 Media and Investments Ltd 2024. All rights reserved. 'Festivals Being Celebrated Openly...': French Designer Reveals What She Loves About India Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: September 28, 2025, 19:06 IST French designer Julia Chaigneau shared pictures of her participating in an open festival celebration with her neighbours and friends. Rapid Read Choose News18 on Google French designer Julia Chaigneau said she loves how festivals are celebrated openly in India. (Photo: X) The festive season is underway across India, and markets buzz with shoppers, pandals draw large crowds, and cultural festivities light up cities and towns alike. A French woman living in India has opened up about what she loves about India the festival celebrations on the streets instead of behind closed doors. Festivals being celebrated openly in the street instead of behind closed doors is one of the things I love the most in India," French designer Julia Chaigneau shared on a post on X (formerly Twitter). Recommended Stories The closest I can compare it to is Christmas. But in Europe (at least in my experience), once the day comes, people disappear into their homes. If you dont have family around, you can end up alone," she added. Festivals being celebrated openly in the street instead of behind closed door is one of the things I love the most in India.The closest I can compare it to is Christmas. But in Europe (at least in my experience), once the day comes, people disappear into their homes. If you pic.twitter.com/TDVitT69dI Julia Chaigneau (@juliachaigneau) September 28, 2025 Chaigneau said she had never celebrated a festival openly before, but her neighbours and friends made sure that she was included in the festivities. Since moving, Ive never celebrated a festival alone. Neighbours, friends of friends, even complete strangers always made sure I was included. It feels almost unimaginable to people that someone would be left out," she said. That human warmth with food, music, rituals shared on the streets with friends as much as family, is what makes me feel so welcome and happy here," Chaigneau added. Several social media users agreed with Chaigneaus views, adding that India loves to celebrate festivals together. This is the beauty of Indian society. We celebrate moments of joy together," a user said. As an Indian, when I was in Europe on christmas day, it came as a shock to me. The largest, most important festival in Europe and the streets were empty, shops closed, silence everywhere. I wished it was more merry"," another individual commented. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Thats why I chose to not go live abroad. Loneliness cries silently among all the shiny infrastructure in those places," a third person wrote. Earlier, Chaigneau wished everyone a Happy Navratri in a previous post and shared a video of doing garba with her friends. About the Author Aveek Banerjee Aveek Banerjee is a Senior Sub Editor at News18. Based in Noida with a Master's in Global Studies, Aveek has more than three years of experience in digital media and news curation, specialising in int... Read More First Published: September 28, 2025, 19:06 IST News viral 'Festivals Being Celebrated Openly...': French Designer Reveals What She Loves About India Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... 2 Women, 1 Minor Murdered During Livestream On Instagram By Drug Traffickers In Argentina Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: September 28, 2025, 11:12 IST The brutal murder was livestreamed on Instagram and 45 members of a private account watched it, the officials said. 3 Argentinian Women Killed By Drug Gang A horrific incident that sent shockwaves across Argentina prompted protests in the country. The protesters took to the streets of Buenos Aires on Saturday to demand justice for three young women who were tortured and murdered allegedly by drug traffickers. Recommended Stories The brutal murders of 15-year-old Lara Gutierrez, and Morena Verdi and Brenda del Castillo, who were both 20, were broadcasted on social media. As per the police, the perpetrators livestreamed the horrific act to send a warning to others. Five suspects three men and two women are in custody, according to National Security Minister Patricia Bullrich. However, a 20-year-old Peruvian man, purported to be the group leader, is at large. They were trying to send a message: this is what happens to those who steal drugs from me," Javier Alonso, security minister of the province of Buenos Aires, said at a press conference. Punishment" For Violating Gang Code As per a report by BBC, authorities said that these women were lured into a van in the pretext of partying, but they were taken to get punished" for violating gang code. On of the persons in police custody showed the video of the incident. In the video, the alleged gang leader is heard saying, This is what happens to those who steal drugs from me." The authorities have released a photograph of the alleged Peruvian mastermind and said that he would be in the custody soon. Protests Across The Country The horrific crime has sparked outrage in Argentina and the relatives of the woman and minor are staging organised protests across the country. Feminist and human rights groups accompany them in the demonstration. They took her away from me and I want them to pay for what they did," the mother of Brenda del Castillo told reporters. I want everybody to pay." As per a report by AFP, the victims relatives held a banner with their names Lara, Brenda, Morena" and placards with their images, flanked by supporters as they marched to Parliament. It was a narco-feminicide!" Our lives are not disposable!" read signs and banners as protesters banged on drums at the march, organized by a feminist group. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Location : Argentina First Published: September 28, 2025, 11:12 IST News world 2 Women, 1 Minor Murdered During Livestream On Instagram By Drug Traffickers In Argentina Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... 'Another Targeted Attack On Christians': Donald Trump On Michigan Church Shooting Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: September 29, 2025, 07:14 IST Several people were injured after a man rammed his vehicle into the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Michigan and opened fire, while causing a fire. Rapid Read Choose News18 on Google US President Donald Trump (Image: AFP) US President Donald Trump on Sunday reacted to the shooting at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, in Grand Blanc, Michigan, calling it yet another targeted attack on Christians in America, while expressing condolences for the victims. Four people were dead, and at least eight others were injured at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Michigan, United States, after an unidentified man opened fire on people at the site. Police say the shooter intentionally started a fire at the church, before he was shot dead by officers. Recommended Stories I have been briefed on the horrendous shooting that took place at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, in Grand Blanc, Michigan. The FBI was immediately on scene, and will be leading the Federal Investigation, and providing full support to State and Local Officials," Trump said on his Truth Social platform. The suspect is dead, but there is still a lot to learn. This appears to be yet another targeted attack on Christians in the United States of America. The Trump Administration will keep the Public posted, as we always do. In the meantime, PRAY for the victims, and their families. THIS EPIDEMIC OF VIOLENCE IN OUR COUNTRY MUST END, IMMEDIATELY!" he added. Authorities say the shooter rammed their vehicle through the front of the church during a large service and began shooting, CNN reported. Officers believe they will find additional victims when it is safe to enter the building. Grand Blanc Township Police Chief William Renye said the suspect was a male, 40 years old, from Burton, Michigan, who drove his vehicle through the front doors of the church. He then exited his vehicle, firing several rounds at individuals within the church," he added. Reacting to the shooting, US Vice President JD Vance said, Just an awful situation in Michigan. FBI is on the scene and the entire administration is monitoring things. Say a prayer for the victims and first responders." top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Just an awful situation in Michigan. FBI is on the scene and the entire administration is monitoring things.Say a prayer for the victims and first responders. JD Vance (@JDVance) September 28, 2025 A total of ten gunshot victims, including some who are in critical condition, have been transported to local hospitals, according to Reyne. Two officers were involved in shooting down the suspect, according to the chief: one from the Department of Natural Resources and another from Grand Blanc Township. About the Author Aveek Banerjee Aveek Banerjee is a Senior Sub Editor at News18. Based in Noida with a Master's in Global Studies, Aveek has more than three years of experience in digital media and news curation, specialising in int... Read More Location : United States of America (USA) First Published: September 28, 2025, 23:13 IST News world 'Another Targeted Attack On Christians': Donald Trump On Michigan Church Shooting Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... India Has Self-Respect, Says Lavrov As Russia Plans Putins December Visit Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: September 28, 2025, 08:25 IST Sergey Lavrov, while speaking to Indian news media outlets on the sidelines of the UNGA, said that New Delhi has self-respect when discussing tariffs and energy trade. Rapid Read + Follow us On Google Putins December visit to New Delhi is in the works, Lavrov said, adding that the bilateral agenda spans defence, energy, finance and high-tech. (IMAGE: REUTERS FILE) Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, speaking to Indian media on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, said Moscow is preparing for President Vladimir Putins visit to India later this year. He noted that the bilateral agenda covers trade, defence, technology and cooperation across global platforms. In December, a visit from Mr Putin is being planned to New Delhi. We have a very extensive bilateral agenda, trade, military, technical cooperation, finance, humanitarian matters, healthcare, high-tech, artificial intelligence, and of course close coordination at the international level within the SCO, BRICS and bilaterally," Lavrov said. Recommended Stories He said that External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is expected to visit Moscow this year, while he himself will travel to New Delhi as part of the regular diplomatic exchanges between the two nations. On trade, particularly energy ties, Lavrov stressed that Russia does not interfere in Indias choices. Im not even asking what is going to happen to our trade relations, our oil. I dont ask our Indian colleagues this. They are perfectly capable of making these decisions for themselves," he said. The Russian Foreign Minister also praised Indias position, saying it reflects that the country has self-respect". Lavrov pointed to Jaishankars earlier remarks on Indias energy trade. And publicly, my friend, whom I referenced earlier when he was asked a similar question, said, if the US wants to sell their oil to us, we are prepared to discuss the terms for this," Lavrov said. The US has repeatedly criticised India for continuing to buy Russian oil, even accusing New Delhi of helping to fund Moscows war effort in Ukraine. Kyiv, however, has maintained that India is not aligned with Russia. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy told Fox News last week that New Delhi remains mostly" on Ukraines side and urged the US and Europe to engage with India on questions related to the energy sector. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Jaishankar had clarified Indias position, stating: But what we buy from other countries, not the United States, but from Russia or other countries, thats our own business. And that has nothing to do with the India-US agenda." Lavrov called that a very worthy response" and said it showed that India, like Turkey, has self-respect." About the Author Shankhyaneel Sarkar Shankhyaneel Sarkar is a senior subeditor at News18. He covers international affairs, where he focuses on breaking news to in-depth analyses. He has over five years of experience during which he has c... Read More Location : New York, United States of America (USA) First Published: September 28, 2025, 08:09 IST News world India Has Self-Respect, Says Lavrov As Russia Plans Putins December Visit Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Menace To World: India Blasts Pakistan At UNGA, Says Its Terror Fingerprints Visible Globally Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: September 28, 2025, 10:29 IST Srinivas remarks sparked reactions from Pakistani diplomats, giving the impression he called Pakistan the home of terror, though no country was named. Rapid Read + Follow us On Google Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, Prime Minister of Pakistan, addresses the 80th United Nations General Assembly at UN headquarters in New York City, US. (IMAGE: REUTERS FILE/REPRESENTATIVE) At the UN General Assembly, Indian diplomat Rentala Srinivas harshly criticised Pakistan for its terror ties, saying, Pakistans reputation speaks for itself. Its fingerprints are so visible in terrorism across so many geographies. It is a menace not only to its neighbours but to the entire world." No arguments or untruths can ever whitewash the crimes of Terroristan", he added without naming Pakistan, according to a report by IANS. Recommended Stories Their report also highlighted that it is a common practice at the UN for countries to not exercise their right of reply if they were not directly named. The countries may not exercise their right of reply even if they can be identified from innuendos or from subtle hints. The news agency said that a secretary in its UN Mission, Muhammad Rashid, rushed in to reply to Srinivas comments and in doing so furiously admitted that Pakistan was Terroristan". Stan" is a generic, Perisan-derived word for place of" or home of" and is found in the names of several countries and places. Pakistans reputation speaks for itself. Its fingerprints are so visible in terrorism across so many geographies. It is a menace not only to its neighbors but to the entire world"Indian Diplomat Rentala Srinivas hits out at Pakistan at UNGA pic.twitter.com/BcpytnZsEa TRK News (@trk_media) September 28, 2025 Protesting the use of the word Terroristan, Rashid said India was distorting the very name of a country, a member of the United Nation". top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all India walked out of the Assembly Hall as he spoke, the report outlined. Srinivas also said it is telling that a neighbor who was not named chose to nevertheless respond and admit their longstanding practice of cross-border terrorism The report also highlighted that Rashids reaction, which was on the record, almost amounted to an acknowledgement that they were the ones against whom an accusation or an unpleasant reference was being made". About the Author Shankhyaneel Sarkar Shankhyaneel Sarkar is a senior subeditor at News18. He covers international affairs, where he focuses on breaking news to in-depth analyses. He has over five years of experience during which he has c... Read More Location : New York, United States of America (USA) First Published: September 28, 2025, 09:51 IST News world Menace To World: India Blasts Pakistan At UNGA, Says Its Terror Fingerprints Visible Globally Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Charlie Javice faces prison time after being found guilty of tricking JPMorgan into paying $175M for Frank. The financial aid startup's 2021 sale was premised on a bogus database of 4 million users. Javice argues that, despite the bogus user base, Frank was still a value to the bank. A lot of math has to happen before a judge arrives at the two most important numbers in any sentence for a financial crime: how much time the defendant must serve, and how much money they must repay. These calculations are being heatedly argued over in the case of Charlie Javice, due to be sentenced in Manhattan on Monday after being found guilty of fraud for using bogus user data to trick JPMorgan Chase into paying $175 million for her student financial aid startup, Frank. At the center of the dispute is the word "loss." Should US District Judge Alvin K. Hellerstein sentence Javice based solely on the bank's $175 million gross loss, as prosecutors want? Or should he consider the bank's net loss, subtracting for what Javice's lawyers say was the website's legitimate value and potential? "The court is required to account for the value of what JPMC actually obtained in exchange for its purchase price," the defense wrote last week. "Regardless of the number of users, Frank had real value." Federal prosecutors say the sentencing math how much time, how much money is simple. Javice, they argue, should serve 12 years in prison and pay $300 million in restitution $283 million to JPMorgan Chase and $17 million to the bank's insurer. It's a sum, they say, that reflects the "enormous victim loss" suffered by JPMorgan Chase, the country's largest bank. Javice, as a federal jury in Manhattan found in March, repeatedly lied to the bank about Frank's worth, promising Chase would gain access to the names and data of the website's 4 million Gen-Z users young adults the bank was eager to sell checking accounts and credit cards. In fact, Frank had data for only 300,000 users. "Based on the defendant's lies, JPMC projected it could generate more than $500 million in revenue from selling banking products to Frank's customers," prosecutors argue. "Had JPMC known the truth that Frank had only a few hundred thousand users the bank would not have acquired Frank." Prosecutors' massive restitution demand includes the original 2021 sale price. It also includes the $2 million in salaries Chase paid to Frank employees and $1 million in salary paid to Javice herself, as Chase's "managing director in charge of student solutions," in the year before the fraud was discovered. Nepal Gen Z Unrest: Probe Panel Seeks Foreign Travel Ban On Ex-PM Oli, Key Officials Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: September 28, 2025, 20:23 IST The recommendations follow the violent youth-led protests that erupted over corruption allegations and a controversial social-media ban Nepal's former PM KP Sharma Oli at a public event in Bhaktapur. (ANI) Nepals high-level inquiry panel probing the September 8 Gen Z unrest on Sunday recommended a foreign travel ban and restrictions on leaving the Kathmandu Valley for former Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and four other senior officials. The committee named ex-Home Minister Ramesh Lekhak, former Home Secretary Gokarnamani Duwadi, ex-National Investigation Department chief Hutraj Thapa, and former Kathmandu Chief District Officer Chhabi Rijal among those who must seek prior approval before any travel abroad or outside the valley. Recommended Stories The recommendations follow the violent youth-led protests that erupted over corruption allegations and a controversial social-media ban. Initially peaceful, the demonstrations turned deadly when crowds stormed government buildings, including Parliament, prompting security forces to fire tear gas, water cannons and live rounds. At least 72 people were killed and more than 2,000 injured. The crisis forced Prime Minister Oli to resign on September 9, a day after the clashes. Home Minister Lekhak had already quit, taking moral responsibility for the crackdown. An interim government headed by former chief justice Sushila Karki took charge on September 12 to restore order and oversee fresh elections due in March 2026. Investigators said the travel curbs are meant to prevent interference with evidence and ensure key figures remain within reach of the law while the probe continues over the next three months. Ex-PM Olis First Appearance In his first public address since stepping down, Oli on Saturday launched a blistering attack on the interim government, branding it a government of publicity" and questioning its legitimacy following nationwide Gen Z protests earlier this month. Oli accused the interim leadership of coming to power through vandalism and arson" rather than constitutional process or popular mandate, calling it a Gen-Z government" that lacks democratic legitimacy. He urged a return to constitutional norms and pledged to restore the rule of law and democratic governance. What does this government of publicity expectthat we will hand over the country and flee abroad?" Oli asked, arguing that the priority must be to rebuild the nations constitutional and democratic order and to revive responsible politics. Responding to social media rumours that linked him to the unrest, Oli denied any involvement in incitement. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all He criticised inflammatory calls circulated online urging violence requests for guns, swords or drones and said such messages were being promoted enthusiastically. He added that, upon hearing reports of firing, his immediate action was to seek information on the situation. Location : Nepal First Published: September 28, 2025, 20:23 IST News world Nepal Gen Z Unrest: Probe Panel Seeks Foreign Travel Ban On Ex-PM Oli, Key Officials Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Over 7,000 Inmates Who Escaped During Nepal Gen-Z Protests Return To Prisons Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: September 28, 2025, 23:47 IST A total of 14,558 prisoners had escaped the detention centres across the country during the Gen-Z protests on September 8 and 9. Nepals youth protests began on September 8. (Photo Credit: X) Over 7,700 inmates, who escaped from several prisons during the recent Gen-Z protests in Nepal, have been returned or brought back to their respective detention centres, according to authorities. The protests, primarily driven by students and young citizens, rapidly escalated into Nepals bloodiest day since the 2006 pro-democracy movement, with the death of at least 74 people, including police personnel. Houses of several politicians were burned down by enraged protesters. Recommended Stories A total of 14,558 prisoners had escaped the detention centres across the country during the Gen-Z protests on September 8 and 9, according to officials at the Prison Management Department. Ten prisoners have died during the clash with the security forces, while 7, 735 inmates have returned to their respective prisons. Meanwhile, 6,813 prisoners are still absconding from different jails, and the government has launched a hunt to arrest those prisoners. The violent youth-led protests erupted earlier this month over corruption allegations and a controversial social-media ban. Initially peaceful, the demonstrations turned deadly when crowds stormed government buildings, including Parliament, prompting security forces to fire tear gas, water cannons and live rounds. The crisis forced Prime Minister Oli to resign on September 9, a day after the clashes. An interim government headed by former chief justice Sushila Karki took charge on September 12 to restore order and oversee fresh elections due in March 2026. In his first public address since stepping down, Oli on Saturday launched a blistering attack on the interim government, branding it a government of publicity" and questioning its legitimacy following nationwide Gen Z protests earlier this month. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Oli accused the interim leadership of coming to power through vandalism and arson" rather than constitutional process or popular mandate, calling it a Gen-Z government" that lacks democratic legitimacy. He urged a return to constitutional norms and pledged to restore the rule of law and democratic governance. (with inputs from PTI) About the Author Aveek Banerjee Aveek Banerjee is a Senior Sub Editor at News18. Based in Noida with a Master's in Global Studies, Aveek has more than three years of experience in digital media and news curation, specialising in int... Read More Location : Kathmandu, Nepal First Published: September 28, 2025, 23:47 IST News world Over 7,000 Inmates Who Escaped During Nepal Gen-Z Protests Return To Prisons Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Pakistan Uses Rare Earth Minerals As Diplomatic Lever In White House Meeting With Trump | Exclusive Reported By : News18.com Edited By: Ronit Singh Last Updated: September 28, 2025, 21:16 IST According to top intelligence inputs, Munir briefed Trump on Pakistans potential in rare earths and critical minerals, a sector vital for US Pakistani Army Chief Asim Munir showing a wooden box purportedly containing rare earth minerals to Trump | Image: X Pakistan moved to position its rare earth reserves as a strategic bargaining chip with the United States, with Field Marshal Asim Munir personally presenting samples of rare earth precious metals and stones" to US President Donald Trump during a meeting at the White House on Thursday, which also saw Pakistani PM Shehbaz Sharif. According to top intelligence inputs accessed by CNN-News18, Munir briefed Trump on Pakistans potential in rare earths and critical minerals, a sector vital for US defence, electric vehicles and semiconductor industries. Recommended Stories Trump, who hailed Sharif and Munir as great leaders," is understood to have expressed interest in exploring Pakistans mineral wealth, estimated by various sources to be worth about six trillion dollars. The meeting came soon after Pakistan signed a $500 million memorandum of understanding with American metals firm US Strategic Metals (USSM). Sources described Trumps warm welcome and his handshake with Sharif as a strategic handshake," signalling a push towards a long-term strategic and economic partnership" between Washington and Islamabad. Officials familiar with the talks said the presentation of rare earth samples was designed to appeal directly to Trumps deal-making instincts. By showcasing tangible assets rather than engaging in abstract diplomacy, Pakistans military leadership sought to demonstrate that it can offer the US something beyond its traditional security role. The move also carries broader geopolitical messaging. With Pakistans economy under IMF pressure and China already dominant in its mining sectorparticularly in Balochistans Saindak and Reko Diq projectsMunirs gesture signals Islamabads intent to diversify its strategic partnerships. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Intelligence assessments suggest the overture was meant to reassure Washington of Army-backed investor protection and to signal to Gulf states and India that Pakistan aims to insert itself into the global critical minerals supply chain. Analysts say Munirs direct involvement underscores that rare earth mining is being treated not merely as an economic opportunity but as a national security asset. Location : United States of America (USA) First Published: September 28, 2025, 21:16 IST News world Pakistan Uses Rare Earth Minerals As Diplomatic Lever In White House Meeting With Trump | Exclusive Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Pakistans Shehbaz Sharif, Asim Munir Show Trump Rare Earth Minerals During White House Meet Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: September 28, 2025, 15:49 IST Asim Munir and Shehbaz Sharif presented rare earth minerals to Donald Trump at the White House, aiming to boost Pakistan-US ties. Donald Trump with Shehbaz Sharif and Asim Munir (X) In a bid to worm its way back into the United States good books, Pakistani Prime Minister Asim Munir and Army Chief Asim Munir presented its rare earth minerals to US President Donald Trump during a meeting at the White House last week. The photograph, shared by the White House, showed Munir presenting a wooden box that contained the rare earth minerals as Trump looked on during the meeting in the Oval Office. Sharif, who was also present, was seen standing with a smile. Recommended Stories The photo surfaced days after Trump hosted Sharif at the Oval Office on Thursday. The talks, which top Pakistan government sources described as highly significant and security-focused," also included US Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The meeting reportedly continued for about ninety minutes. Top Pakistan government sources disclosed that the Oval Office discussions stretched beyond security, covering economic engagement, counterterrorism, and investment opportunities. The United States, they said, has expressed strong interest in Pakistans rare earth minerals, potential in crypto mining, and prospects for oil exploration. Shehbaz described Trump as a man of peace" for his sincere efforts" to end conflicts around the globe, according to a statement from his office. Sharif expressed confidence that under Trumps leadership, the Pakistan-US partnership would be further strengthened to the mutual benefit of both countries", the statement said. He also invited the US companies to invest in Pakistans agriculture, IT, mines and minerals, and energy sectors, the statement added. Earlier this month, a US metals company, United States Strategic Metals (USSM), signed a $500 million investment deal with Pakistan. The agreements cover the export of critical minerals, including antimony, copper, gold, tungsten, and rare earth elements, and envisage the eventual establishment of processing facilities in Pakistan. In August, Islamabad unveiled what Munir called its treasure" to the US and reached a trade agreement that Pakistan hoped would attract American investment in its mineral and oil reserves. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Earlier this year, the Pakistan PM claimed that the country possesses mineral reserves worth trillions of dollars, and foreign investment in the mineral sector could help the country overcome its prolonged financial crisis The minerals, considered essential for industry, defence, and clean-energy technologies, have heightened global interest. About the Author Shobhit Gupta Shobhit Gupta is a sub-editor at News18.com and covers India and International news. He is interested in day to day political affairs in India and geopolitics. He earned his BA Journalism (Hons) degre... Read More Location : Washington D.C., United States of America (USA) First Published: September 28, 2025, 15:49 IST News world Pakistans Shehbaz Sharif, Asim Munir Show Trump Rare Earth Minerals During White House Meet Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Trumps Commerce Secy Says India, Brazil Must React Correctly To US: Need To Fix Some Countries Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: September 28, 2025, 11:31 IST US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick said that India and Brazil must open their markets. Rapid Read Choose News18 on Google US Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick speaks while standing next to US President Donald Trump, as a "Trump Gold Card" sign is displayed, in the Oval Office at the White House in Washington, DC, US. (IMAGE: REUTERS) US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick on Saturday said that countries like India and Brazil need to react correctly to America" and open their markets for American goods. There are some countries we need to fix like India and Brazil. These countries need to react correctly to America," he said. Recommended Stories Lutnicks comments come as US tries to negotiate a trade deal with India after imposing 50% tariffs on Indian exports to the US. Brazil is also locked in on a trade war with the US. Trump intensified trade tensions with Brazil by imposing a 50% tariff on all Brazilian imports in August. This move escalated a diplomatic crisis between the two nations, with Trump citing Brazils treatment of former President Jair Bolsonaro as a witch hunt" and alleging that Brazils actions threaten US national security. In response, Brazil filed a formal complaint with the World Trade Organization and announced reciprocal tariffs on U.S. goods. President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva condemned the US tariffs as unacceptable blackmail" and declined to engage in negotiations, stating he would not humiliate" himself by doing so. A fortnight ago the US commerce secretary had warned that not following Donald Trumps trade model will lead to a tough time when it comes to trade with the US. Thats the presidents model, and you either accept it or youre going to have a tough time doing business with the worlds greatest consumer," he had said. He had also questioned why India does not buy US agri products. India brags that they have 1.4 billion people. Why wont 1.4 billion people buy one bushel of US corn? Doesnt that rub you the wrong way that they sell everything to us and they wont buy our corn. They put tariffs on everything," he had said during an interview with American media. The Trump administration has imposed 50 per cent tariffs on India, including 25 per cent for Delhis purchases of Russian oil, among the highest imposed on any country in the world. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all India has described the US action as unfair, unjustified and unreasonable. Defending its purchase of Russian crude oil, India has been maintaining that its energy procurement is driven by national interest and market dynamics. About the Author Shankhyaneel Sarkar Shankhyaneel Sarkar is a senior subeditor at News18. He covers international affairs, where he focuses on breaking news to in-depth analyses. He has over five years of experience during which he has c... Read More Location : Washington D.C., United States of America (USA) First Published: September 28, 2025, 11:16 IST News world Trumps Commerce Secy Says India, Brazil Must React Correctly To US: Need To Fix Some Countries Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... What Does Donald Trump's 21-Point Peace Plan For Gaza Entail? Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: September 28, 2025, 14:03 IST The Trump administration has unveiled the plan to Arab countries but neither Hamas nor Israel has committed to the proposal. Rapid Read Choose News18 on Google A displaced Palestinian woman, who fled Al-Shati (Beach) refugee camp in Gaza City with her children amid an Israeli military operation, following Israeli evacuation order, moves southward, in the central Gaza Strip. (IMAGE: REUTERS) Western media outlets on Saturday reported details of the Trump 21-point plan for peace in the Middle East and Gaza." The Washington Post said it obtained a copy of the plan, verified by officials from two governments familiar with the discussions. According to the report, the proposal calls for an immediate halt to all military operations in Gaza as the first step toward ending the war. The Times of Israel separately noted that the framework draws heavily from former UK Prime Minister Tony Blairs earlier proposal for resolving the Israel-Hamas conflict. Recommended Stories WaPo added that if both sides agree, existing battle lines" would be frozen, with 20 living hostages and the remains of more than two dozen others set to be released within 48 hours. West Asia-based news outlet Al-Arabiya said that the plan will be presented to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu when the latter travels to the White House. The Times of Israel reported that the contents of the plan were shared with the paper by sources who requested they be paraphrased. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all This is what the 21-point plan looks like, as per the Israeli newspaper. Gaza would be turned into a de-radicalised, terror-free zone that poses no threat to its neighbours. The enclave would be redeveloped with a focus on the welfare of its residents. If both Israel and Hamas sign on, the war would end immediately, with the Israeli military halting operations and pulling out in phases. Within 48 hours of Israel publicly accepting the plan, all hostagesboth living and deceasedwould be handed back. Once that happens, Israel would release several hundred Palestinian prisoners serving life terms, more than 1,000 Gazans detained since the war began, and return the bodies of hundreds of Palestinians. Once hostages are released, Hamas members who pledge peaceful coexistence will be given amnesty. Those unwilling to stay will be allowed safe passage to other countries. Aid will surge into Gaza at levels no lower than the January 2025 deal about 600 trucks a day alongside infrastructure repair and rubble clearance. Humanitarian relief will be distributed by the UN, the Red Crescent, and other neutral international agencies, without interference from either Israel or Hamas. Gaza will be run by a temporary administration of Palestinian technocrats, overseen by a new US-backed international body working with Arab and European partners. This transitional set-up will last until the Palestinian Authority completes its reform program. An economic recovery plan will be drawn up to rebuild Gaza, attract investment, and create jobs, drawing on experts and existing regional models. A special economic zone with reduced tariffs will be set up, with terms negotiated among participating countries. No Gazan will be forced to leave, but those who do will have the right to return. The plan explicitly encourages people to stay and rebuild. Hamas will have no role in governance. Gazas new leadership must dismantle offensive military infrastructure and commit to peaceful coexistence with neighbors. Regional partners will provide security guarantees to ensure compliance and prevent Gaza from posing a threat to Israel or its own people. An international stabilization force, created by the US and Arab partners, will deploy in Gaza to oversee security and train a new Palestinian police force. Israel will neither occupy nor annex Gaza. The IDF will hand over territory gradually as new security forces establish control. If Hamas rejects the deal, the measures will still move forward in areas cleared of terror groups, with the IDF handing them over to the stabilization force. Israel will agree not to strike in Qatar, while the US and others acknowledge Dohas key mediating role. A program to de-radicalize Gazas population will be launched, including interfaith dialogue to shift narratives and foster coexistence. Once redevelopment advances and PA reforms are completed, conditions will be created for a credible pathway to Palestinian statehood. The US will open a political dialogue between Israel and the Palestinians aimed at defining a long-term horizon for peaceful coexistence. About the Author Shankhyaneel Sarkar Shankhyaneel Sarkar is a senior subeditor at News18. He covers international affairs, where he focuses on breaking news to in-depth analyses. He has over five years of experience during which he has c... Read More Location : Washington D.C., United States of America (USA) First Published: September 28, 2025, 13:47 IST News world What Does Donald Trump's 21-Point Peace Plan For Gaza Entail? Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... 'Will Get It Done': Trump Signals 'Something Special' Amid Gaza Ceasefire Plan Curated By : News18.com Last Updated: September 28, 2025, 19:09 IST Donald Trump's comments came days after he claimed that negotiators were close to finalising an agreement that would secure the release of hostages in Gaza. US President Donald Trump US President Donald Trump on Sunday said that there is a real chance for greatness in the Middle East" without providing specific details, days after saying he was close to forging a deal to end the war in Gaza. We have a real chance for Greatness in the Middle East. All are on board for something special, first time ever. We will get it done," the US President said in a post on Truth Social without detailing any specific information. Recommended Stories Trumps comments came days after he said that a breakthrough on Gaza was imminent, and claimed that negotiators were close to finalising an agreement that would secure the release of hostages and bring an end to the war. Its looking like we have a deal on Gaza I think its a deal that will get the hostages back. Its going to be a deal that will end the war Its going to be peace," Trump had said amid renewed international focus on the ongoing conflict. The US President is scheduled to meet Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday at the White House with the aim of reaching a framework for a deal, according to administration officials. Trumps 21-Point Peace Plan Meanwhile, Trump has proposed a 21-point peace plan for the Middle East and Gaza. According to Western media outlets, the proposal calls for an immediate halt to all military operations in Gaza as the first step toward ending the war. The Washington Post said it obtained a copy of the plan, verified by officials from two governments familiar with the discussions. It said that if both sides agree, existing battle lines" would be frozen, with 20 living hostages and the remains of more than two dozen others set to be released within 48 hours. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all Al-Arabiya said that the plan will be presented to Netanyahu when the latter travels to the White House. The war has raged for nearly two years and pushed Israeli forces deep into Gaza City, described by Israel as the last stronghold of Hamas." The conflic has exacted a staggering tcivilian toll. Gazas Hamas-run health ministry reported the total number of people killed since October 7, 2023, has reached 65,502. About the Author Shobhit Gupta Shobhit Gupta is a sub-editor at News18.com and covers India and International news. He is interested in day to day political affairs in India and geopolitics. He earned his BA Journalism (Hons) degre... Read More Location : Washington D.C., United States of America (USA) First Published: September 28, 2025, 19:08 IST News world 'Will Get It Done': Trump Signals 'Something Special' Amid Gaza Ceasefire Plan Disclaimer: Comments reflect users views, not News18s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments... Fintech Checkout.com announced on Friday that it reached a $12 billion valuation as part of an employee stock buyback program. On the one hand, very few startups ever achieve decacorn status, so $12 billion is nothing to sneeze at. Its a valuable enough company to have landed its founder and CEO Guillaume Pousaz on Forbes billionaire list. On the other, there was a short period of time when Checkout.com was valued at a whopping $40 billion, as part of its $1 billion Series D round closed in 2022. By the end of that year, with the venture world crashing into a bear market, it had already internally slashed its valuation to $11 billion. And then it lowered its valuation again, to $9.35 billion in 2023, a company spokesperson told TechCrunch. So $12 billion represents a nearly 30% increase from its previous valuation. But this valuation isnt being obtained because an investor is plunking down cash. The company is the only one buying employee shares back, with no other investors involved in a tender offer, the spokesperson tells us. Instead, the valuation comes from a 409A valuation, the person said. Thats an assessment made by an independent third-party. Its not the same as a vote of confidence from a professional investor, but its also not simply the company giving itself a bump. In fairness, Checkout.coms archrival Stripe also had its own valuation setback during the same venture capital bear market, crashing from $95 billion at the height of the froth in 2021, to $50 billion during the doldrums in 2023. Stripe has since clawed its way back to $91.5 billion as of February through its own series of employee tender offers. Stripe, however, did have outside investors helping to value it. And, Stripe is rumored to be working on yet another tender offer at a $106.7 billion valuation, Axios just reported. Yet just because Checkout.com is competing against one of the most highly valued startups of all time, doesnt minimize its own business achievements. The London-based payments company, which is a popular choice among large e-commerce sites like eBay and Pinterest, said it was starting to be profitable by the end of 2024 and is on track for a full year of profitability in 2025. Checkout.com says it processes about $1 billion worth of e-commerce payments a day and hired 300 more employees this year, bringing headcount to 2,000 people across 19 global offices. Checkout.com also tells TechCrunch that employees with tenure of at least a year will be eligible for the buyback program, but declined to indicate the size of the buyback, either in total spend or number of shares. Note: This story was updated with more information about the previous valuation. An official from the Ministry of Mines and Mining Development, based in Matabeleland South Province, has been sentenced to 18 months in prison for criminal abuse of office after unlawfully issuing a mining prospecting licence to his mother. Rueben Ncube (42), employed as a records officer, pleaded not guilty to the charge but was convicted by Gwanda magistrate Mr Progress Murandu, who cited overwhelming evidence. Ncube was sentenced to 18 months imprisonment, with nine months suspended on condition he does not commit a similar offence within the next five years. The remaining nine months were further suspended on condition he completes 380 hours of community service at Senzangakhona Primary School. Representing the State, Mr Shepherd Moyo said Ncube issued a prospecting licence to his mother an act inconsistent with his official duties. Using the licence, his mother went on to obtain a mining claim in Filabusi. Mr Moyo said the offence came to light after members of the community alerted the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (Zacc). On 6 May 2021, while carrying out his duties as records officer at the Ministry of Mines Gwanda office, the accused unlawfully and knowingly acted contrary to his responsibilities by signing prospecting licence number 029660 AA, dated 6 May 2021, on behalf of the Mining Commissioner, in the name of Emelda Moyo his mother. On 7 February 2025, the same prospecting licence was used to issue a certificate of registration for claim number 51223, registered under the name Emelda Moyo. The offence was exposed when the Mosenthals community of Insiza District filed a report with Zacc, alleging that a miner named Emelda Moyo had invaded their site claiming to hold a valid mining certificate, said Mr Moyo. He added that investigations revealed the community had been applying for a registration certificate for the same claim since 2022, but their applications were deliberately stalled by Ncube, who had access to all relevant files. In 2024, the Mosenthals community discovered gold deposits at the site and began guarding the area while awaiting a certificate from the Ministry. They were shocked when served with an eviction notice stemming from a default court judgement in which Ncube had a vested interest. Further investigations confirmed that Emelda Moyo is indeed the mother of Ncube. The accused, fully aware of his duties, knowingly and intentionally acted contrary to them by processing a prospecting licence in his mothers name, thereby showing favour to her at the expense of the Mosenthals community, who had long been applying for a certificate for the same area, Mr Moyo said. In his defence, Ncube, represented by Mr Jabulani Ndubiwa of Mashayamombe and Partners, argued that issuing the licence was part of his assigned duties. He stated that, in practice, prospecting licences are not signed by the provincial mining director, deputy director, or senior cadastre officers, but often by administrative staff. Mr Ndubiwa said Ncubes mother had applied for the licence and met all legal requirements. He argued that had she been served by any other official on that day, she would still have received the licence. On 6 May 2021, my client was assigned by his superiors to work in the front office, which included issuing and processing over-the-counter services such as prospecting licences. He denies showing any favour to Emelda Moyo, as she fulfilled all legal requirements. The licence merely conferred the right to search for minerals in a designated area in this case, Matabeleland South. At that point, there was no guarantee she would discover any precious minerals before the licence expired, he said. Sunday News Gayle McCool spent decades haunted by a recurring dream, and even longer by the fallout from Hit Man: A Technical Manual for Independent Contractors, a book she wrote as "Rex Feral." It was a how-to guide on contract killing, written in the early 1980s after her boyfriend, Richard Hancea charismatic ex-cop with a taste for martial artsegged her on. McCool, by then a divorced mother in Florida, never imagined anyone would take the book seriously. Then, in 1993, a triple murder in Maryland was carried out almost step-by-step according to her manual, triggering not just criminal trials but a First Amendment battle over whether publishers can be liable for readers' crimes, as Abbott Kahler writes in a deep dive for Vanity Fair . McCool's own life reads like a Southern gothic novel: an abusive marriage, a whirlwind romance with Hance, and a descent into a world filled with fake IDs, drug labs, and sketchy friends. Hance alternated between tenderness and paranoia, running scams and even coming under suspicion as the Unabomber at one point. McCool's book earned her notoriety, but also a lifetime of regret. She says she never read the book after submitting it, and tried, unsuccessfully, to have it destroyed after learning of the Maryland murders. Hance was ultimately killed by McCool's son during a violent confrontation, and McCool served time for drugs. Now 77, the great-grandmother lives quietly, her lone copy of the infamous book tucked away. As for the victims' families, McCool says, "I absolutely feel responsibility for what happened. How do you say sorry when someone is dead?" More here. On a lonely Arkansas road in 1868, Congressman James M. Hinds was assassinated for championing Reconstruction and Black civil rightsyet his name has been all but erased from American memory. A story at Longreads examines how the first congressman ever assassinated while in officea man once called "an eloquent vindicator of the rights of men"has become such a forgotten figure. Hinds, a New York native who arrived in Arkansas after the Civil War, served a single term in Congress before being fatally shot by a Ku Klux Klan member in Arkansas in 1868. The story by Drew Johnson has details on his ambushincluding how Hinds scrawled a message on his hatband as he lay dying, one that identified himself and asked that his wife take care of their two daughters. Hinds had been one of the more vocal proponents of racial equality in Arkansasmingling with newly freed Black citizens, leading "freedmen marches," and pushing for political participation. Yet his story has been largely omitted from standard histories. Even comprehensive accounts of Reconstruction rarely mention him. That near-erasure spurred interest from William Darrow, a Vermont federal prosecutor and distant relative, who painstakingly reconstructed Hinds' life in an article 10 years ago that remains one of the only substantial modern records of the congressman. Why isn't this assassination of a congressman better known? Johnson suggests the swift rollback of Reconstruction is a big factor. The article explores how dominant narratives can erase stories like Hinds' from the national memory, and it challenges the way history is told. "You are free to remember James M. Hinds or forget him, but not to do both," Johnson concludes. "We finally ought to get around to choosing." Read the full story. Would you try a meal prepared decades ago, despite the health risks? Meet an adventurous group of collectors who crack open military rations that have survived years on the shelfin some cases for more than centuryto sample the forgotten flavors of history. These culinary daredevils, some with YouTube followings in the millions, savor everything from World War II chocolate bars and beef from the Second Boer War, to crackers from the Civil War, according to a report on this quirky hobby in the Wall Street Journal . The general consensus? Edible, yesdelicious, not so much. Missouri's Nathan Abernathy is one of those brave samplers, recently cracking open a 1965 US military meal from the Vietnam War, at which point he found himself dodging a minor explosion of a tin of peaches and braving coffee creamer that had turned "hard as steel." While Abernathy declared the crackers from his ration as being "not too bad," he steered clear of the pork slices, keeping the risk of poisoning from that vintage food item at bay. Collectors say the appeal is part thrill, part curiosity, and part connection to global history. Rations from other nations include duck confit for France, a cappuccino shot for Italy, and a reindeer casserole for Norwegian ration kits. Some even find modern MREsmeals, ready to eatpractical for camping or lunch on the go, and other items in old-time military kits can prove useful without posing the same food-poisoning risks as the victuals: One guy took a drag a few years back from a World War II-era cigarette, declaring it a "strong smoke." It's definitely not a hobby without hazards: Abernathy once spent two days vomiting after consuming a not-yet-expired chicken pesto pasta. Still, food safety experts note that properly sealed and sterilized US rations are generally safe, though packaging should always be inspected. Although American MREs have often been maligned as "meals rejected by everyone," today's versions are reportedly a step up, with innovations like shelf-stable pizza. In the meantime, some folks are obsessed with watching these white-knuckle taste tests. Iran's Shahed drone has become a battlefield celebrityand a headache for advanced militaries. First fielded by Iran in 2021 and now a staple in Russia's campaign against Ukraine, the Shahed-136 stands out for its five-figure price and 1,500-mile range. Under a nearly three-year-old agreement with Iran, Russia has been able to buy and produce the drones domestically, for a reported $35,000 to $60,000 apiece. That's allowed it to launch tens of thousands of them into Ukraine. Indeed, a May 2025 report from the Center for Strategic & International Studies (CSIS) found Russia had gone from roughly 200 Shahed drone launches per week in September 2024 to 1,000-plus per week by March 2025. As the Wall Street Journal reports, the West is scrambling to catch up. Nations including the US, France, and the UK are now racing to develop their own versions. Yet Western efforts have hit hurdles: labor and material costs are higher, for one. The appeal of the Shahed's design lies in its simplicity, per the Journal: its triangular wings allow for cheap, mass production using basic materials and a propeller engine. That's given it a "game-changing" role in modern warfare, according to drone expert James Patton Rogers with the Cornell Brooks Tech Policy Institute at Cornell University. "Cheap, long-range precision saturation strikes are one of the greatest threats to international security," he says. CSIS explained in May just what is so worrisome about drone saturation: "It doesn't matter if an individual Shahed hits its target. What matters is the compound effect the terror weapon has on civilians and the stress it places on air defenses," per CSIS. It continues: "These low-cost attack drones cause millions of Ukrainians to wake up to the sound of air raid sirens every night. This terror campaign has lasted longer than the infamous Blitz aerial bombing of London during World War II and shows no signs of letting up." The Kyiv Independent adds that since 2024, Russia has also been employing long-range decoy drones, which cost even less thanks to their foam plastic and plywood construction. Because of their similar electronic and radar signatures, they are tracked and engaged like attack drones, tying up Ukrainian resources and increasing the Shahed drones' chances of getting to their target. The latest mass shooting in the US involved a shooter opening fire from a boat onto a waterfront bar in North Carolina, police say. Three people were killed and at least eight others injured Saturday night at the American Fish Company, a popular spot along the Cape Fear River in Southport, reports CNN . Police say the suspect approached the bar by water about 9:30pm, fired into the crowd, then sped away on the Intracoastal Waterway before being captured. Roughly 30 minutes after the shooting, a US Coast Guard crew detained an individual who was spotted taking a boat out of the water at a public ramp in Oak Island about 12 miles away, per the New York Times. Officials have yet to identify the suspect or speculate about a motive, but "no known further credible threat to the public" remains, a city spokesperson said. Southport is about 30 miles south of Wilmington. The US has recorded at least 320 mass shootingsdefined as incidents in which at least four people are shot, excluding the shooterso far this year, according to the US Violence Archive. President Trump and the top congressional leaders from both parties have agreed to meet Monday afternoon, one day before the deadline to avoid a government shutdown. Trump had canceled a meeting with Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries last week, citing a lack of common ground. This time, Speaker Mike Johnson, Senate Majority Leader John Thune, Schumer, and Jeffries are all expected at the table, Politico reports. Schumer on Sunday called Trump's decision to meet "a good first step" but added caveats. "Now, if the President at this meeting is going to rant, and just yell at Democrats, and talk about all his alleged grievances, and say this, that, and the other thing, we won't get anything done," Schumer told Meet the Press, per the New York Times. "But my hope is it'll be a serious negotiation." The urgency for a meeting grew after Schumer reached out to Thune on Friday, pressing for Trump's direct involvement in talks. Democrats are focused on extending health insurance subsidies that expire soon, while Republicans are pushing for Senate Democrats to approve a stopgap funding measure the House has already passed, which would buy an additional seven weeks to negotiate larger issues. Earlier efforts to strike a deal stalled, with all Senate Democrats except Pennsylvania's John Fetterman voting to block the short-term funding bill. In a statement, Schumer and Jeffries reiterated their commitment to preventing a shutdown and addressing what they call the "Republican healthcare crisis," per Politico. Trump has indicated he's willing to talk but doesn't plan to offer Democrats new concessions at this meeting. Asked on CNN whether Trump is willing to negotiate to reach a deal, Johnson wouldn't say. A spending measure would need 60 votes to clear the Senate; Republicans hold 53 seats. Word has gone out from the White House that President Trump plans to attend the hastily called meeting of hundreds of the nation's top generals and admirals on Tuesday, a gathering ordered last week by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who said he'll address the brass. Trump's decision has scrambled the security arrangements. "We have confirmation from the White House that POTUS is now attending the speech on Tuesday," says a planning document sent Saturday, reports the Washington Post , which has seen it. A notice distributed at the Pentagon said Trump's presence at the Virginia base will "significantly change the security posture" of the event. For one, the president's attendance at Quantico means the Secret Service is now responsible for security, with little notice. Two Democratic members of the Senate Armed Services Committee criticized the meeting on Saturday as an expensive political stuntestimates put the tab in the millionsthat raises security risks, per the New York Times. "For an administration obsessed with rooting out waste, this abrupt, time and resource-intensive meeting of our military's top commanders is absurd," said a statement by Sens. Tammy Duckworth and Mazie Hirono. There's been little explanation from the Trump administration about why the generals and admirals have been summoned from all over the world, and there was none provided for why Trump decided even later to take the stage from Hegseth. Such a meeting usually would be planned months in advance, per USA Today. Current and past military officials have expressed concerns about the purpose of the meeting, including that it could be overtly political, which Trump's attendance suggests. In a speech at Fort Bragg in June, Trump called protesters "animals," repeated his false claim that the 2020 election was stolen from him, and endorsed conspiracy theories. A gunman crashed his pickup into the front door of the building, then opened fire with an assault rifle inside a packed church in Michigan on Sunday, shooting 10 peoplebefore setting the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc Township on fire. At least two of the people shot were killed, the Detroit Free Press reports, and "multiple victims are in critical condition," Grand Blanc Township Police Chief William Renye said. Other worshippers might have been trapped by the flames. "We do believe that we will find some additional victims," said Renye. Officers killed the shooter during a gunbattle as he left church, police said. Hundreds of people were in the church, which is about 50 miles north of Detroit just outside Flint, at the time of the attack. Police said they believe the gunman started the fire, but they aren't sure how. Flames and smoke poured from the church for hours, per the AP, before the fire was put out. First responders then began sifting through the wreckage. Survivors were reunited, hugging and sobbing, with family members at a nearby movie theater. Police identified the attacker as a 40-year-old man from Burton. They provided no information about whether he belonged to the congregation or what the motive for the attack might have been. The shooting occurred the morning after Russell M. Nelson, the oldest-ever president of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, died at 101. Witnesses said they heard a loud boom just before 10:30am, then gunfire. "I thought maybe the steeple had fallen down," said Kristin Juarez. Paul Kirby said he went outside and saw a man get out of a truck and start shooting with a rifle, per the New York Times. A bullet went through the glass door beside Kirby, and a piece of shrapnel hit his leg before he ran inside to get his family to flee. Standing at a police cordon later, a church member who didn't attend the service was choked up, per the Free Press. "I know everyone who was there," Phillip Cotter said. This file has been updated with new information. The Taliban on Sunday freed an American from an Afghan prison, weeks after saying they had reached an agreement with US envoys on a prisoner exchange as part of an effort to normalize relations. A spokesperson for the Taliban Foreign Ministry identified the man as Amir Amiri, the AP reports. He did not say when Amiri was detained, why, or where. An official with knowledge of the release said Amiri had been detained in Afghanistan since December 2024 and was on his way back to the US. Qatar facilitated Amiri's release, its latest diplomatic achievement resulting from a security partnership with the US that has secured the freedom of four other Americans from Taliban detention this year. Qatar also helped in releasing a British couple who were imprisoned for months. Secretary of State Marco Rubio welcomed Amiri's release, saying it marked the Trump administration's determination to protect American nationals from wrongful detention abroad. "While this marks an important step forward, additional Americans remain unjustly detained in Afghanistan," he said. Ahmad Habibi, brother of Mahmood Habibi, a US citizen held by the Taliban for more than three years, said that he and his family were grateful to hear the news about Amiri, and that they remained hopeful that Mahmood would be brought home as well. Mahmood Habibi, an Afghan American business owner, worked as a contractor for a Kabul-based telecommunications company and vanished in 2022. The FBI and his family have said they believe he was taken by the Taliban, who have denied holding him, per the AP. Ahmad Habibi said administration officials "have explicitly assured us that they will not leave my brother behind." We came across a bullish thesis on Constellation Brands, Inc. on slo capitals Substack by Justin. In this article, we will summarize the bulls thesis on STZ. Constellation Brands, Inc.'s share was trading at $133.02 as of September 18th. STZs trailing and forward P/E were 18.50 and 11.38 respectively according to Yahoo Finance. corona, beer, cold, lemon, table, mexican, extra, lime, black, editorial, and, Antonio Gravante / Shutterstock.com Constellation Brands (STZ), owner of Corona, Modelo, Pacifico, and a premium portfolio of wines and spirits, is currently trading at its lowest EV/EBIT multiple in history, around 10.5x, below even 2008/09 financial crisis levels. This presents a rare opportunity to acquire a high-quality, durable business at a historically depressed valuation. The companys moat is anchored in brand power and distribution. Iconic brands like Modelo are deeply embedded in consumer culture, creating generational loyalty that is nearly impossible for competitors to replicate. Constellations North American distribution network further strengthens this advantage, controlling shelf space in grocery stores and tap handles in barsassets that are scarce and defended aggressively. The valuation disconnect appears driven by short-term concerns around consumer spending, weight-loss trends, and debt, yet the business has consistently demonstrated resilient margins, free cash flow, and balance sheet strength. Growth is being fueled by Modelo overtaking Bud Light as Americas top beer, ongoing premiumization in the alcohol sector, rational portfolio optimization in wine and spirits, and international expansion of Mexican beer brands. Free cash flow for FY2024 is projected at $2.3 billion, with mid-single-digit growth in beer and improving margins in wine/spirits. A conservative Buffett-style valuation using a 10% discount rate suggests intrinsic equity value of roughly $36 billion, close to the current market capitalization of $4243 billion. Even modestly higher growth would push intrinsic value above $50 billion, implying a 2025% margin of safety. Constellations combination of durable brands, sticky distribution, and global growth potential, now mispriced by the market, creates a compelling risk/reward scenario. While near-term risks exist, the companys strong moat, disciplined management, and reliable cash flow make it an attractive long-term investment opportunity. Previously we covered a bullish thesis on Constellation Brands, Inc. (STZ) by RepresentativeAd4940 in March 2025, which highlighted the companys dominant beer brands, strong brand loyalty, resilient cash flows, and attractive valuation after one-time impairments. The stock has depreciated approximately 25% since coverage due to short-term market concerns. The thesis still stands as STZs moat and financial strength remain intact. Justin shares a similar bullish view but emphasizes historically low EV/EBIT multiples, brand momentum, and global growth potential. Fairbanks, AK (99701) Today Snow showers. High 7F. SSE winds shifting to W at 10 to 15 mph. Chance of snow 70%. 1 to 3 inches of snow expected.. Tonight Cloudy skies early, then partly cloudy after midnight. Low -16F. Winds W at 10 to 15 mph. Dr. Jihad Abdullah Al-Fadel, Second Deputy Speaker of the Shura Council, emphasized Bahrains significant achievements in the space sector and the pivotal role of the legislative authority in supporting national space initiatives inspired by the vision of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa, with continuous guidance and support from His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister. She noted that the legislative and executive authorities have worked hand in hand to ensure the provision of resources and requirements for the space sector. Dr. Al-Fadel delivered her remarks at the 15th International Meeting of Ministers and Members of Parliaments (MMoP), organized by the International Astronautical Federation (IAF) in Sydney, Australia. The meeting, attended by Her Excellency Fatima bint Jaffer Al Sairafi, Minister of Tourism, included representatives from governments and parliaments of approximately 24 countries, alongside space experts, under the theme: Space: An Indispensable Ally for Decision-Makers. Speaking on the theme Space for Improving Public Services, Dr. Al-Fadel highlighted that the legislative authoritys role extends beyond drafting laws. She stressed Bahrains efforts to establish a dedicated space law while ensuring the parliament acts as a strategic partner by approving budgets for national space projects, monitoring resource utilization, encouraging partnerships with universities, research centers, and international agencies, and raising public awareness of space technologys societal benefits. By converting space data and imagery into precise and reliable information, governments can implement more effective policies and deliver efficient services, Dr. Al-Fadel said. Space technology supports environmental monitoring, disaster management, urban planning, water resource protection, and climate and air quality assessment. She further underscored that integrated support for Bahrains space sector has led to remarkable progress over the past decade since the establishment of the Bahrain Space Agency. The kingdom has developed over 25 space applications supporting more than 30 national projects, directly benefiting the community, advancing sustainable development goals, increasing satellite-related research projects by 42%, doubling national and international joint initiatives, boosting agency service demand by 167%, and achieving a 92% beneficiary satisfaction rate. Dr. Al-Fadel highlighted practical applications, such as national tree-planting programs that increased green coverage by 16% between 2021 and 2024, urban heat monitoring, water quality tracking to reduce health risks, and sea-level rise assessments to guide urban planning. She also emphasized Bahrains commitment to international and regional partnerships, noting participation in the UNs Space4Water initiative, collaboration with the United Kingdom on satellite campaigns to monitor carbon emissions, and the joint Space for Sustainability program with the United Arab Emirates, using artificial intelligence to analyze remote sensing data for sustainability goals. This meeting provides a valuable platform to exchange knowledge and strengthen international cooperation in a field that significantly impacts human development and public policy, Dr. Al-Fadel stated. Space today is not only about scientific or technological dimensions but also strategic, developmental, and humanitarian ones. Space and remote sensing technologies offer practical solutions to societal challenges, resource management, public service improvement, and sustainable development. In closing, she affirmed that Bahrains achievements over the past decade mark the beginning of a long journey in space science. With rapidly evolving technology and growing challenges, international collaboration and knowledge exchange remain essential to ensure space continues to be an indispensable ally for decision-makers, a tool for serving humanity, promoting peace, and advancing sustainable development. She reaffirmed Bahrains commitment to investing in the space sector and ensuring these technologies benefit people and contribute to a brighter, sustainable future. The Bahraini delegation included Mrs. Karima Mohammed Al-Abbasi, Secretary-General of the Shura Council. The meeting began with an opening address by the IAF President, who welcomed Bahrains participation for the first time. Discussions among ministers and parliamentarians focused on three key themes: using space in disaster and risk management, enhancing public services, and leveraging space solutions to improve life on Earth. Participants shared best practices from their respective countries regarding space applications in these areas. His Excellency Ali bin Saleh Al Saleh, Speaker of the Shura Council, affirmed that the Kingdom of Bahrain, under the leadership of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and with the continuous guidance of His Royal Highness Crown Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, underscores the importance of investing in knowledge, innovation, and responsible media. These, he noted, are essential pillars for development, progress, and enhancing Bahrains regional and international stature. He also expressed pride in the achievements of both the Shura and Council of Representatives in strengthening communication with citizens through parliamentary media. Speaking during the opening of the Third Arab Parliamentary Media Forum held in Bahrain, Al Saleh highlighted that the councils efforts to engage with citizens align with the enduring approach established by His Majesty the King, based on popular participation, justice, and equality. He emphasized that both councils are committed to developing parliamentary media tools, leveraging modern digital platforms to showcase legislative achievements, and providing broader communication channels with citizens. Furthermore, they are exploring the potential of artificial intelligence to deliver high-quality content that reflects the councils national role and meets societal expectations. The forum, organized by the Arab Administrative Development Organization under the Arab League and supported by the Shura Council, Council of Representatives, and the Gulf University, is themed Parliamentary Media in the Age of Artificial Intelligence: Ensuring Credibility and Creating Impact. The event was attended by His Excellency Ahmed bin Salman Al-Musallam, Speaker of the Council of Representatives, along with several members of both councils. Al Saleh noted that the forum comes at a time when exchanging expertise, establishing practical frameworks, and enhancing the role of Arab parliamentary media are essential to strengthen democracy, accountability, and transparency. He stressed that parliamentary media is a noble mission rooted in transparency and credibility, serving as a vital tool to build trust between citizens and legislative institutions. Investing in the development of Arab parliamentary media is an investment in democracy and in the future we all aspire to build, he said. He added that modern media and artificial intelligence play a pivotal role in shaping public opinion, which heightens the responsibility of parliamentarians and journalists to protect the truth, combat misinformation, raise awareness, and maintain a robust parliamentary media discourse that reflects the realities of legislative work and meets citizens expectations. Al Saleh underscored that credibility remains the cornerstone of any successful media practice and that artificial intelligence, regardless of its advancement, serves to reinforce truth and human service, not replace ethical judgment and conscience. He affirmed that the forum highlights the shared Arab commitment to advancing parliamentary media, improving its efficiency, and keeping pace with rapid global technological and communication transformations, thereby strengthening the connection between parliaments and societies. He concluded by thanking the Arab Administrative Development Organization, experts, journalists, and specialists participating in the forum, expressing hope that their discussions and recommendations would lead to innovative initiatives that elevate Arab parliamentary media and support its development amid accelerating technological changes. TOKYO, Sep 28 (News On Japan) - Japan and South Korea marked the 60th anniversary of normalized diplomatic relations with the opening of the annual Japan-Korea Exchange Festival in Tokyo over the weekend, drawing large crowds to enjoy food, cultural exhibits, and student exchanges. The event featured booths showcasing everything from traditional cuisine to youth exchange programs, filling the venue with visitors eager to experience both nations cultures. One high school student who joined the exchange program said, "I want to learn not only about K-pop but also about Koreas history and politics." At the opening ceremony, South Koreas new ambassador to Japan, Lee Hyuk, who arrived the day before to assume his post, made an appearance. "The most important thing is to move Japan-Korea relations forward," Lee said, noting that a positive atmosphere has taken shape since President Lee Jae-myung took office. In the evening, Japanese and Korean artists performed together. Among them was Aiko Sumida, who had appeared in a joint Japan-Korea audition program and gained attention in South Korea after performing Japanese songs on a Korean television music show. "Even though countries and languages are different, people are the same," Sumida said. "I always sing with the hope that my feelings can reach others, even just a little." She added that she wants her songs to cross borders and touch peoples hearts. Source: TBS State Alabama Alaska Arizona Arkansas California Colorado Connecticut Delaware Florida Georgia Hawaii Idaho Illinois Indiana Iowa Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Maine Maryland Massachusetts Michigan Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Montana Nebraska Nevada New Hampshire New Jersey New Mexico New York North Carolina North Dakota Ohio Oklahoma Oregon Pennsylvania Rhode Island South Carolina South Dakota Tennessee Texas Utah Vermont Virginia Washington Washington D.C. West Virginia Wisconsin Wyoming Puerto Rico US Virgin Islands Armed Forces Americas Armed Forces Pacific Armed Forces Europe Northern Mariana Islands Marshall Islands American Samoa Federated States of Micronesia Guam Palau Alberta, Canada British Columbia, Canada Manitoba, Canada New Brunswick, Canada Newfoundland, Canada Nova Scotia, Canada Northwest Territories, Canada Nunavut, Canada Ontario, Canada Prince Edward Island, Canada Quebec, Canada Saskatchewan, Canada Yukon Territory, Canada Postal Code Wolfspeed (WOLF) shares remained in focus on Friday as the semiconductor company announced plans of shifting its incorporation from North Carolina to Delaware by Sept. 29. The announcement, part of a broader restructuring effort, arrives as the silicon carbide and gallium nitride specialist continues to operate under Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. More News from Barchart WOLF stock has been losing ground in recent weeks. At the time of writing, its down roughly 60% versus its 1-month high set on Sept. 16. www.barchart.com How Relocation Might Help Wolfspeed Stock Relocating its incorporation to Delaware could streamline WOLFs governance and legal flexibility, especially during bankruptcy proceedings. Delawares corporate laws are widely seen as more favorable for restructuring and attracting future investment. While the move itself doesnt resolve Wolfspeeds financial challenges, it signals intent to stabilize operations and potentially emerge leaner. The relocation could also make WOLF more attractive to institutional capital and strategic partners post-restructuring. In essence, its a foundational move that boosts shareholder value and supports long-term recovery in Wolfspeed stock. WOLF Shares Are Not Out of the Woods Yet Despite the restructuring narrative, Wolfspeed shares remain a high-risk bet. The company is still navigating bankruptcy court, with no confirmed path to profitability. Its core business power semiconductors faces stiff competition and capital intensity. Moreover, equity holders risk dilution or worse if restructuring terms favor creditors. The announced incorporation shift may improve governance, but it doesnt address cash burn or operational headwinds. Until Wolfspeed delivers concrete progress on its financial recovery and customer traction, WOLF shares are more speculative than strategic. Investors should tread carefully also because Wolfspeed is currently in the penny stock territory, a class of equities known for its vulnerability to extreme volatility and potential price manipulation. Wall Street Sees Exciting Upside in WOLF Ahead Despite the aforementioned challenges, Wall Street analysts continue to forecast significant upside in WOLF stock over the next 12 months. DHT Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:DHT) is among the best low-risk stocks to buy now. According to a recent disclosure with the SEC, Inspire Investing LLC purchased a new stake in DHT Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:DHT) by acquiring 69,444 shares during the first quarter. The financial firms investment in the company now amounts to approximately $729,000. If we consider financial performance, the companys year-to-date and 5-year returns surpassed the markets average by 26.43% and 136.75%, respectively. DHT Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:DHT) demonstrates resilience through disciplined fleet management, which protects its profitability, liquidity, and the sustainability of its dividends. Why DHT Holdings, Inc. (DHT) is Skyrocketing So Far In 2025? The companys financials are highly praised by all. DHT Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:DHT) maintains strong cash flow and debt management to support sustainability and dividend longevity. Management believes that the markets dynamics is increasingly becoming a favorable supply story, driven by a rapidly aging fleet, a decent pipeline of newbuilds, and ongoing sanctions. DHT Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:DHT), headquartered in Hamilton, Bermuda, is a company specializing in crude oil tankers mainly in Monaco, Singapore, Norway, and India. Incorporated in 2005, the company is committed to leading the global crude oil transportation market. While we acknowledge the potential of DHT as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock. READ NEXT: The Best and Worst Dow Stocks for the Next 12 Months and 10 Unstoppable Stocks That Could Double Your Money. Disclosure: None. Key Points The Dutch brewer already sits atop of one of largest collections of beer brands around the world. Beer is a business that tends to provide steady sales in both good and bad economic times. Heineken is setting its sights on developing countries, where beer sales are growing more rapidly. 10 stocks we like better than Heineken Heineken (OTC: HEINY) is a quality beer, but -- over the past decade at least -- it's been a mediocre investment. The share price of the Dutch brewing giant, one of largest beer conglomerates on the planet, today sits right about where it was in June 2015. Could that be about to change? A major acquisition This week the company surprised the beer world with an announcement that it plans to bolster its presence in Latin America with a $3.2 billion acquisition of Costa Rica's Florida Ice and Farm Company, or FIFCO. Back in 2002 Heineken bought a 25% stake in FIFCO, and this week's transaction will buy it the remaining 75% of the beverage distributor and its various assets. That will give the Dutch brewing giant full ownership of the iconic Imperial beer brand as well as a soft drink business and a PepsiCo bottling license, among other new assets. In addition, the transaction will bring to Heineken these FIFCO assets: A 75% stake in Distribuidora La Florida, covering its beverages, food, and retail division, which includes more than 300 retail outlets in Costa Rica and overall operations in El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras A 75% stake in Nicaragua Brewing Holding, which holds a 49.85% indirect stake in Compania Cervecera de Nicaragua, Nicaragua's leading beverage company A 25% minority interest in Heineken Panama A 100% stake in FIFCO's beyond beer business in Mexico Latin America is a good region to sell beer in. The Latin American beer market is projected to grow from about $17.9 billion this year to $38.6 billion in 2031, a compound annual growth rate of 13.5%. Rising urbanization and incomes, deregulation, and global brand trends are driving beer consumption levels higher. Image source: Getty Images. A needed boost And it's no secret that Heineken shares could use a shot in the arm. The company's share price is down almost 11% over the past 52 weeks. That turned around in 2025 and the stock was climbing until late July when Heineken reported Q2 results and warned that second-half profits and volumes might be softer due to tariffs and other issues. That sent the stock plummeting 8% in a day. But many analysts think that July sell-off was overdone. And now the shares are cheap, with the stock trading at just 13.7 times forward earnings. This makes the giant beverage company worth a second look. For comparison, beer conglomerate Anheuser-Busch InBev trades at about 14.2 times forward earnings. The headline seemingly announced the emergence of a hot new talent on the scene: Talent Agents Circle AI Actress Tilly Norwood As Studios Quietly Embrace AI Technology, Deadline reported. But real actors and directors were quick to point out this was no actress at all. Norwood is the creation of AI talent studio Xicoia, headed up by Eline Van Der Velden from the Particle6 AI production studio. Deadline reported Saturday that Van Der Velden said at the recent Zurich Summit that the studio was talking to talent agents who had expressed interest in signing Norwood. When we first launched Tilly, people were like, Whats that?, and now were going to be announcing which agency is going to be representing her in the next few months, Van Der Velden said. Real Hollywood talents have been speaking out about the development. Shame on these people, actor Mara Wilson (Mrs. Doubtfire, Matilda) said on Instagram. They have stolen the faces of hundreds of young women to make this AI actress. Theyre not creators. Theyre identity thieves. What about the hundreds of living young women whose faces were composited together to make her? she said. You couldnt hire any of them? Director Reed Morano (The Handmaids Tale, I Think Were Alone Now, The Rhythm Section) also sounded off on the AI actor news. I guess if you cant make it as an actor yourself...and youre incredibly lazy, you can cheat your way in! she said, addressing Van Der Velden, who is also an actor. Let me remind you @ElineHQ acting is the craft that celebrates humanity and all aspects of what that means. An AI actor has no life experience and no amount of clever prompts can replicate the effect of true humanity and soul. Thank you for your hollow & empty gift to feed the greedy and for reminding us theres no floor to how low desperate people will go for money and headlines. Studios dont buy into this snake oil, you will lose your audience. Another director, Joe Carnahan (The Narc, The A-Team, The Grey), said he hopes Tillys career TANKS. She was a nightmare to work with!!!! said actor Lukas Gage (You, The White Lotus, Companion). She couldnt hit her mark and she was late! Van Der Velden responded to criticism via Tillys Instagram account, which is filled with videos and photos of the actor, including reels from would-be AI films. The AI creation glows about filming screen tests in the captions. To those who have expressed anger over the creation of our AI character, Tilly Norwood: she is not a replacement for a human being, but a creative work - a piece of art, Van Der Velden said. Like many art forms before her, she sparks conversation, and that in itself shows the power of creativity. I see AI not as a replacement for people, but as a new tool a new paintbrush," she said. Just as animation, puppetry, or CGI opened fresh possibilities without taking away from live acting. AI offers another way to imagine and build stories. Im an actor myself, and nothing certainly not an AI character can take away the craft or joy of human performance." Oscar-nominated actor Abigail Breslin (Little Miss Sunshine, Zombieland) made an appeal to fellow actors. I beg every actor I know to plz boycott this, she said, sharing the Deadline story. If your agency is trying to sign an AI actor, you should leave them. Its such a f--- you to the entire craft. Also... not for nothing but its a female AI actress so basically just another way for men to control and narrate the female experience. This is f---ed. #cancelTillyNorwood. On Tuesday, the Screen Actors Guild issued a statement about the introduction of the AI actor. The statement addresses the ways in which a creation like Tilly can both steal talent in its emulation of real actors and take away work opportunities for those real actors. SAG-AFTRA believes creativity is, and should remain, human-centered, it reads. The union is opposed to the replacement of human performers by synthetics. To be clear, Tilly Norwood is not an actor, its a character generated by a computer program that was trained on the work of countless professional performers without permission or compensation. It has no life experience to draw from, no emotion and, from what weve seen, audiences arent interested in watching computer-generated content untethered from the human experience. It doesnt solve any problem it creates the problem of using stolen performances to put actors out of work, jeopardizing performer livelihoods and devaluing human artistry. Additionally, signatory producers should be aware that they may not use synthetic performers without complying with our contractual obligations, which require notice and bargaining whenever a synthetic performer is going to be used." James Comer, the prison inmate who won a landmark New Jersey Supreme Court ruling after challenging the 75-year sentence for felony murder committed while a juvenile. Comer is due to be released from Northern State Prison on Oct. 17. New Jersey Department of Corrections James Comer, the Newark native convicted of felony murder as a teenager who challenged his original 75-year sentence as cruel and unusual punishment and won a landmark ruling by the New Jersey Supreme Court, is due to be released from prison next month after completing a reduced term. Comer, 42, is scheduled to be let out of Northern State Prison on Oct. 17, having served 25 years of the reduced 30-year sentence he received following the 2022 ruling by the state Supreme Court that struck down so-called death in prison sentences for juvenile offenders. A GoFundMe campaign has been set up to help ease Comers transition back into society. As of Thursday, the GoFundMe had raised more than $7,000 toward a $12,000 goal. The campaign is being organized by Alexander Shalom, one of Comers lawyers who got the case before the Supreme Court while working for the American Civil Liberties Union. Shalom said the money raised will be used for Comers immediate expenses after his release, such as a security down payment for an apartment, transportation, food, clothing, and a cell phone. We want James to succeed, Shalom said, adding that Comer had a support network and would be looking for work once he gets out. Theres a lot to learn, Shalom said, adding that Comer never lived by himself before his arrest and will have to learn how to manage his affairs. James Comer, of Newark, is pictured during his 8th grade graduation and as a prisoner in 2010. Comer was 17 on the night of April 17, 2000 when he and two accomplices stole a car in Newark and committed a string of four armed robberies. During one of the robberies, they shot a 35-year-old Irvington man, George Paul, dead. The trio was arrested that night when the car ran out of gas. Comer and the alleged shooter, Ibn Adams, were both 17 at the time and tried as adults. A third suspect, Dexter Harrison, an adult, agreed to testify against the other two in exchange for a 20-year prison sentence. Although he never fired a shot, Comer was convicted as an accomplice to murder, armed robbery, carjacking and weapons possession. The judge sentenced him to 75 years in prison with 68 years of parole ineligibility, which would keep him locked up until he was 85 years old. The sentence exceeded his life expectancy, said Larry Lustberg, an attorney who worked with Shalom on the case. They argued that keeping a juvenile locked up with no chance of parole violated the U.S. Constitution that forbids cruel and unusual punishments. In 2012, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in Miller vs. Alabama that mandatory life sentences for juveniles was unconstitutional. With that precedent, Shalom and Lustberg pushed the Comer case all the way to the New Jersey Supreme Court, which in 2022 adopted the rule that juvenile lifers must be become eligible for parole after serving 20 years. Its very hard for an incarcerated person to have hope because theres no chance for release, Shalom said. What the Comer case did was provide hope. The Comer ruling opened the door for inmates serving life terms for crimes committed as juveniles to seek sentence reductions. The state Office of the Public Defender estimates that as of January 2025, there were 65 inmates eligible for Comer hearings. Both attorneys expressed confidence that Comer would rebuild his life after he got out of prison, and like other inmates, hell need a strong support network around him. There are a lot of challenges, Shalom said. Hes never lived on his own. But he said New Jersey has improved its re-entry services in recent years. Our state has come a long way, Shalom said. Lustberg said he got to know Comer while working the case and believes in him. Hes bright. Hes articulate, Lustberg said. He has the potential to live a constructive and law-abiding life. Hes certainly not the same person who committed the crime. Hes older and more mature. There were several food, product and car recalls for the week of Sept. 22-28, 2025, that you need to know about. Canva If youve gone grocery shopping, used certain items in your home or driven your car this week, now might be a good time to double check what you have been eating, operating or driving. As we come to the end of September, a wave of six important recalls have been issued. These recalls cover everything from food contamination to defective car parts. Here are six recalls for the week of Sept. 22-28, 2025, that you should not ignore. 6 food, car and product recalls between Sept. 22 and Sept. 28 Item Detail Start Date Week of Sept. 22-28, 2025 Whos affected? Drivers of Ford vehicles, consumers of Costcos Kirkland ahi tuna, users of Sunbeam French door ovens, users of a brand of lidocane numbing cream, people who have certain blinds installed in their homes and people who have cooling gel insert pads for car seats. Whats changing? See each specific food, car or product recall for more information. What will happen? People will have to stop consuming or using the products, return them to their place of purchase, and/or throw the products out. Costco recalls popular prepared food dish sold in 33 states: Is your state one of them? The latest food recall from Costco involves one of its prepared food items, namely the Kirkland ahi tuna wasabi poke. The recall is due to the poke product being potentially contaminated with listeria from green onions, one of the poke products ingredients, according to the a notice from one of Costcos suppliers. The affected Ahi Tuna Wasabi Poke products were packaged in clear plastic containers with the Kirkland Signature brand label. They each had a packaging date of Sept 18, 2025, and a sell-by date of Sept. 22, 2025, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. No illnesses have been reported to date. The product was sold in 33 states, including New Jersey. Customers are urged not to eat the Costco Ahi Tuna Wasabi Poke products. Instead, they are encouraged to throw them away or return them to their local Costco for a full refund. For more information about the recall, you can check out our article on the subject. Ford recalls 216K vehicles due to various defects Ford issued two separate recalls within the span of a week affecting more than 216,000 vehicles in total. The automaker is recalling 101,944 Taurus vehicles from the 2016 to 2019 model years due to a defect with the driver and front passenger B-Pillar door trim, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. It may detach while the car is being driven, increasing the risk of an accident or injury. Owners should take these models to their local dealers, who will inspect the trim and repair or replace it if necessary. This will be done at no charge to the owner. Owners whose cars are part of the recall will receive two letters: one alerting them to the problem sent out this week and a second one that will come once the repair is available. The second letter is expected to be sent in December. Ford also issued a second recall affecting more than 115,000 of its pickup trucks. The automaker, in its third recall in recent weeks, is recalling 115,539 F-250, F-350, and F-450 Super Duty pickups that are of the 2020 and 2021 model years. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the reason for the recall is the steering column upper shaft may detach from the steering column, causing a loss of steering control. No injuries or accidents have been reported to date. Owners of the affected Ford pickup trucks should bring them to their local dealers for inspection, and if necessary, replace the defective parts on the steering columns upper shaft. Dealerships have already been notified about the recall and the fix for the issue. Owners should receive an initial notification about the recall between Oct. 6-10. A second letter will be sent to owners about a final fix the last week of 2025. To learn more about both Ford recalls, you can check out our articles here and here. RELIEVE lidocaine numbing cream recalled due to poisoning risk in young children, failure to adhere to child-resistant packaging Mad Rabbit is recalling 28,000 units of its RELIEVE lidocaine numbing cream due to the products lack of child-resistant packaging, causing a poisoning hazard for young children, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. The cream is packaged in a short wide-mouthed white container. On the front of the product, there is a label with black lettering with the words RELIEVE in large lettering and the companys logo and Mad Rabbit, Numbing Cream and Menthol in smaller lettering. No injuries have been reported. The cream was sold nationwide at various retailers and on Mad Rabbits website for $26. Consumers should immediately make sure the numbing cream is out of reach of children and should contact Mad Rabbit to get a child-resistant lid. Once the product has the lid, consumers can continue to use the product. Persilux is recalling 133K zebra blinds sold on Amazon due to strangulation hazards Persilux is recalling 133,000 zebra blinds because they have long cords that can cause strangulation hazards with young children, leading to serious injury or death, according to the CPSC. The recalled blinds were sold in beige, black, dark gray, light gray and white, with sizes ranging from 22 to 73 inches wide and 64 to 72 inches high. The products packaging includes Persilux and Zebra Blinds. The barcode label also has the code X003FFPT63. No injuries have been reported to date. The products were sold on Amazon from June 2023 to June 2025, ranging in price from $40-$124. Consumers should cease using the recalled blinds and contact Persilux for a repair kit at no charge. To get the repair kit, customers should remove the blinds, cut the cord and send a picture of the blinds with the severed cord to recall@persiluxhome.com. Sunbeam recalls more than 1.2M Oster French Door Countertop Ovens due to burn hazard Sunbeam is recalling more than 1.2 million Oster French Door Countertop Ovens because the oven doors can close unexpectedly, causing a burn hazard to consumers, according to the CPSC. Affected model numbers include TSSTTVFDXL, TSSTTVFDDG, TSSTTVFDMAF and TSSTTVFDDAF. The recalled ovens have a spring-loaded glass bilateral door with metal handles. The company has received 95 reports of the doors unexpectedly closing, resulting in burn injuries, including two instances of people getting second-degree burns. The products were sold at Bed Bath and Beyond, Costco, Walmart and other stores nationwide, as well as at online retailers such as Amazon from August 2015 to July 2025. The products ranged in price from $140 to $250. Consumers should stop using the ovens and contact Sunbeam for a free repair kit. AMTRADING recalls 20K Hoovy Cooling Gel Insert Pads for Car Seats and Strollers over burn risks AMTRADING is recalling 20,000 Hoovy Cooling Gel Insert Pads for Car Seats and Strollers due to burn risks for young children, according to the CPSC. The recalled products include black Cooling Gel Insert Pads for strollers or car seats and are approximately 16.5 inches long by 14.25 inches wide. The company has received one report of a child suffering second-degree burns to his back that required medical attention. The product was sold at Target stores nationwide and online at Target.com and Walmart.com from March 2025 through July 2025. The recalled products ranged in price from $20 to $25. Consumers should immediately stop using the Cooling Gel Insert Pads and contact the company for a full refund. People attend the Celebration of Life and Candlelight Vigil for Lauren Semanchik at Ort Farms in Long Valley on Saturday, September 27, 2025. Semanchik and her boyfriend, Tyler Webb, were killed by her ex-boyfriend, a state police lieutenant in August 2025. Alexandra Pais | For NJ Advance Media Family and friends gathered on a Long Valley farm Saturday to celebrate the life of Lauren Semanchik, the Hunterdon County woman killed last month in a double murder-suicide. The Celebration of Life, held at Ort Farms, featured live music, vendor booths and pet adoptions in partnership with Cold Nose Warm Heart. Admission was free for attendees. All proceeds from the GoFundMe campaign will be donated to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence and a nonprofit organization called Loved by Lauren, which is being created by Semanchiks family. The fundraiser, created by Semanchiks co-workers last month, raised over $90,000 as of Sept. 27. A photo board displays memories of Lauren Semanchik at the Celebration of Life and Candlelight Vigil at Ort Farms in Long Valley on Saturday, September 27, 2025. Alexandra Pais | For NJ Advance Media Semanchik, a veterinarian in Long Valley, loved these types of events, gathering with music and food, and community, and was supposed to attend one on Aug. 2 with her father, her family said. He arrived at her Upper Kingtown Road home in Franklin Township that morning to find her dead, along with her new boyfriend, Tyler Webb. Theyd been killed the night before by her ex, New Jersey State Police Lt. Ricardo J. Santos, authorities said. He took his own life shortly after the crime. Webb, 29, a mechanic and volunteer firefighter from Ocean County, and Semanchik, 33, a beloved veterinarian in Long Valley, in Morris County, started dating in May after meeting at a concert in Asbury Park. Boston-based Longpoint has purchased two industrial buildings in Piscataway for $19.4 million at 121 and 131 Ethel Road West. Lee & Associates Two industrial buildings in Piscataway have been sold for $19.4 million in an off-market transaction to Boston-based Longpoint. The acquisition includes properties at 121 and 131 Ethel Road West, totaling 101,454 square feet and previously owned by a private investor for 25 years, according to a statement. The small-bay industrial buildings are fully leased to various tenants spanning distribution, warehousing, food production, and research and development operations. Drew Maffey and Joseph Komitor from Lee & Associates WBE New Jersey office represented Longpoint in the transaction. Maffey said small-bay real estate is seeing high demand in New Jersey from both investors and tenants. Its the industrys sweet spot in todays climate, Maffey said. Highway access was a key component of the deal, officials said. This difficult-to-replicate asset and its location, with proximity to I-287 and the New Jersey Turnpike, were particularly attractive, said Rob Delaney, Longpoints head of acquisitions for the region. Generative AI was used to produce an initial draft of this story, which was reviewed and edited by NJ Advance Media staff. Republican Jack Ciattarelli and Democrat Mikie Sherrill and in the first gubernatorial debate at Rider University in Lawrenceville, NJ on Sunday, September 21, 2025 Ed Murray| For NJ Advance Media Julie Roginsky, a Democrat, and Mike DuHaime, a Republican, are consultants who have worked on opposite teams for their entire careers yet have remained friends. Here, they discuss the weeks political events with Star-Ledger editor Enrique Lavin. Q: President Trumps combative speech at the UN General Assembly was encapsulated by his proclamation: Your countries are going to hell! He rebuked allies over migration and climate policy. Whats your review of his message to the world? Julie: Its embarrassing. What else is there to say? If this were some tinpot dictator, the world could ignore it. Instead, it just demonstrates the demise of the Pax Americana in real time. Mike: Can we talk about something else? These moments are hard to talk about because his style is cringeworthy, but he also sometimes makes good points. I am not just talking about this speech, but his entire eight years. The number one reason for his political success is his tough stance on immigration. For 10 years, Democrats have criticized his rhetoric and approach as they lose ground politically, especially with Hispanics. Sometimes the issue matters more than the style. Q: In a surprising admission, the president conceded he was wrong about the Ukraine-Russia war: I thought that would be the easiest one [to solve] because of my relationship with Putin, he told reporters. After meeting with Ukraines President Zelenskyy, he declared that Ukraine could win and regain all of its territory. Russia essentially responded, Well see about that. Meanwhile, MAGA which had backed Trumps stance that Ukraine should give up land for peace seemed to shrug. Whats your reading? Julie: Please dont accept Trumps framing. With Trump, look at what he is doing, not what he is saying. If he was serious about Ukraine, he would send them more weapons, strengthen the United States role in NATO and tell the House and Senate to send him the Russia sanctions bill that would have passed overwhelmingly already if not for Trumps opposition. None of that has happened. Mike: It is odd to hear him admit a mistake. His supporters wont blame him not being successful. They never have so wont start now. Interestingly enough, despite Trumps rhetoric over the years, Republican voters have never warmed to Putin or Russia. Republican voters grew up under Reagan, Bush and McCain, and those feelings of distrust linger and seem to be proven right. Q: As of last week, 156 of the 193 United Nations member states have recognized a Palestinian state. The U.S., along with Germany, Italy and Japan, remains among the most prominent holdouts. What does this mean for American foreign policy and the war in Gaza? Julie: I dont think recognition means much practically. What are they recognizing? The Palestinian Authority is old and sclerotic and is on the cusp of losing any autonomy in the West Bank thanks to Benjamin Netanyahus foolish decision to annex it. Gaza is controlled by Hamas. I am all for a two-state solution but you actually need a second state and at the moment, that dream seems further away than ever. These countries might recognize Palestine but they sure as hell are not putting boots on the ground or even sending money and arms to Palestinians to fight for it, so its all performative. Mike: Julie is more educated and articulate than I on this issue. I agree that a two-state solution sounds like one way to end the decades-long (millennia-long?) standoff in the Middle East, but there need to be two willing states. Q: Trump, alongside Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., made unsubstantiated claims linking Tylenol use during pregnancy to autism. Scientists and medical experts have widely criticized the remarks as misleading and unsupported by evidence. Where do we go from here? Julie: We go further towards a divided nation, where reasonable women will listen to their OB-GYNs and MAGA acolytes will listen to Dr. Trump and Dr. Kennedy. Mostly, I feel sorry for the women who now believe they are responsible for giving their children autism because they popped Tylenol to bring down a fever during pregnancy. This is cruel, it is unsupported by science and it is another example of how little this administration cares about the wellbeing of Americans and, in particular, American women and children. Theres probably also a grift involved somewhere that will soon become apparent. Mike: More Republicans need to stand up and say vaccines are good. Medicine is good. The child mortality rate was 26 times higher a century ago. 26x. That is staggering. We take for granted that we are living in the tiniest sliver of human history where families dont routinely lose young children. It is unfathomable to most of us. This is the definition of a modern miracle, but too many prey on the justifiable and understandable need for answers on autism for the families impacted. But that doesnt mean we should make healthcare decisions based on conspiracies best articulated in TikTok videos. Q: Congress is facing an Oct. 1 deadline to avoid a government shutdown. House Republicans have introduced a continuing resolution to fund the government through Nov. 21. Democrats oppose the bill due to its lack of healthcare provisions and accuse Trump of refusing to negotiate. Trump also threatened to fire more federal government workers. Should we brace for another shutdown? Julie: A shutdown is coming and it should be firmly placed at the feet of Republicans. They control every lever of government. To quote the Pottery Barn rule, you break it, you own it. Mike: We are still operating under a budget passed by Nancy Pelosi and signed by Joe Biden. I would agree that Republicans should own the shutdown from a blame point of view, except for the fact that Democrats have been utterly inept at messaging just about anything the last 10 years. Q: The cancellation and reinstatement of Jimmy Kimmel Live! by Disney, parent company of ABC, has renewed debate over freedom of speech. The controversy appears to have united voices from both the right and left in support of the First Amendment. And yet, Trump remains in favor of silencing Kimmel and other late-night hosts who criticize him and his administration. Who wins this debate? Julie: America loses. Its amazing that we are even having a debate over whether a comic can tell critical jokes about politicians. On the other hand, Disney came to its senses and told Trump to stow it, which is more than some law firms and Ivy League universities have done, so maybe we have turned a corner in how corporate America intends to deal with the bullying and threats. Mike: Jimmy Kimmel is no martyr. The first amendment protects his right to say what he wants, but he does not have a constitutional right to a multi-million dollar a year job from a private employer. Say what you want; no one can stop you. But you are not free from repercussions. Now, the place where the government goes over the line is the implied threat to the business. No conservative would ever support heavy-handed big government intervention to coerce such a decision. Thats not okay. Apparently Cancel Culture can be alive and well on both ends of the political spectrum. Q: In another apparent challenge to the U.S. constitution, MAGA Sen. Lindsey Graham said on Fox News, I hope he [Trump] runs again in 2028. He later told reporters it was joke. Funny? Julie: Not funny, because he was not joking. Mike: Lindsay Graham is simply a sycophant who will lick the boots of whoever is popular in his state. Right now, Trump is popular. John McCain is shaking his head in disbelief from above. Q: In New Jersey, gubernatorial candidates Republican Jack Ciattarelli and Democrat Mikie Sherrill faced off in their first debate last week (the next one is Oct. 8). One key takeaway: both candidates addressed school district consolidation, though they disagreed on the approach. What are your takeaways? Julie: My takeaway is the same takeaway I have had all year, which is that these debates are a massive waste of time. Not one undecided voter watched that debate. Its time to change the statute and stop requiring candidates to engage in exercises that are not designed for the 21st century. I say this as someone who prepped candidates for debates over the last thirty years and truly loved doing it but the juice is not worth the squeeze anymore. Voters just dont get their information this way, especially when these debates streamed in places little known to the average voter. Mike: I disagree that this is a waste of time. While few undecided voters watch, we get to see candidates in higher-stress situations and assess how they think on their feet. The next debate will be on broadcast television, so perhaps more people will see it. Q: I know youre weary of polls. Still, last weeks Emerson College Polling survey of nearly 1,000 New Jersey voters found Sherrill and Ciattarelli in a dead heat, each receiving 43%. About 10% said they remain undecided. Other recent polls had Sherrill ahead by single digits. Thoughts? Julie: This is going to be a tight race. Polls in New Jersey have tended to underestimate Republican support in the past but its unclear whether pollsters this year revised their methodology to reflect that. Mike: Jacks campaign has made their internals public for a while now, showing this race as tight. Both sides know this is going down to the wire. Q: Next week, well be about a month away from Election Day. What do you want us to pay attention to in the coming weeks? Julie: Dont look at the polls and take a look, instead, at vote-by-mail ballots that are being returned, where they are coming from and how that compares to 2021 and 2024. Much more instructive. Mike: A smart take from a smart operative. Look at who is voting. Is either side able to entice presidential-year-only voters to vote? Who is executing well on turnout? Who is winning in key counties? Are certain demographic groups over- or under-represented. Thats the crystal ball. Political consultants Julie Roginsky and Mike DuHaime Photo by Stephanie Cowan A note to readers: Can Americans still have a sensible and friendly political discussion across the partisan divide? The answer is yes, and we prove it every week with this Friendly Fire conversation. Addressing air traffic control failures is imperative. However, the government should also address monopolization of airline hubs. It is bad for travelers and employees. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez, File) AP By William J. McGee If airlines were people, JetBlue is now on Tinder, swiping right and liking anything with wings--age of fleet and annual earnings not important. In just two years, the Queens-based carrier has attempted a merger with Spirit, an alliance with American, and now a " Blue Sky collaboration" with United . Federal courts struck down the Spirit and American couplings, but the U.S. Department of Transportation just gave a green light to troublesome Blue Sky. Because the real story isnt JetBlue, its United flexing corporate muscle to further consolidate and expand monopoly power in Americas largest air market . Is Blue Sky a prelude to a United-JetBlue merger? Probably, despite their protestations. But even short term it means both airlines swap airport takeoff and landing slots at two of the planets busiest airports JetBlue expands at Uniteds Newark Liberty hub, while United gains seven daily round-trips at JFK International. And the crux: Both crowded facilities are currently closed to new entry by the Federal Aviation Administration. United inherited the Newark fortress hub after its 2010 merger with Continental , one of several mega-mergers that I and others testified against before Congress, warning airlines were becoming too big to fail. That flight already departed, leaving America with the most consolidated skies since the 1910s. We now have just 11 scheduled passenger airlines (down from about 75 in the 1980s), and the Big Four oligopoly of American, Delta, Southwest, and United control an unprecedented 80% of the market, with taxpayers on the hook for periodic bailouts. Weve also seen just two new-entrants since 2007 ( Avelo and Breeze ), an unequaled dry spell. Everything wrong with air travel is writ large in Newark. As everyone knows, EWR suffered multiple air traffic control (ATC) meltdowns that frightened passengers, induced controllers to take trauma leave , and disrupted thousands of flights . But while ATC and runway repairs can be fixed, deeper problems at Newark are ignored. According to DOT and MarketWatch , United controls about 70% of the Newark market. In fact, one study found American, Delta, or United dominate at least 70% of all flights at nine different U.S. airports, with American monopolizing 88% in Charlotte. JetBlue drives Newark monopolization even higher, while also granting United back-door entry into JFK-- access FAA would likely deny any other carrier seeking slots there, despite United abandoning JFK in 2022. Blue Sky is essentially a watered-down merger that further dampens competition, leaving consumers with fewer choices and higher prices because smaller low fare airlines are denied access. As Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) just stated in a letter to United and JetBlue CEOs, Blue Sky may harm full and fair airline competition. DOT statistics prove Newark has the highest average domestic airfares among all six airports serving greater New York City: Newburgh at $136, Islip at $260, LaGuardia at $338, White Plains at $361, and JFK at $417. Then theres Newark, clocking in at $429, or $32 above the national average. Monopolization is also awful for employees. Unionized workers servicing United at Newark via contracted Prospect Airport Services were recently told PAS was being replaced by United Ground Express , Uniteds wholly-owned subsidiary. As NJ.com reported earlier this month, Service Employees International Union/32BJ members could lose full-time work, seniority, and health benefits. These front-line employees directly affect passengers safety, security, and comfort. Travelers dont need to fly Allegiant, Avelo, Breeze, Frontier, or Spirit to benefit from their presence , because they force the majors to lower fares. But strengthening hub fortresses and allowing further consolidation disguised as collaborations hurts what little competition there is against the domestic oligopoly carrying four of every five passengers. So what can be done? Here are three practical suggestions for Congress and DOT if Washington is truly serious about jumpstarting airline competition: First, support the Airport Gate Competition Act from Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) and Josh Hawley (R-MO). This bill would ensure facilities are shared and prevents large carriers to sit on precious gates and other critical airport infrastructure. Next, block Wall Street mega-investors with a ban on common ownership of airline stock, thereby allowing entrepreneurs to secure funding to compete with majors. And eliminate federal preemption, which since deregulation in 1978 has barred state courts, legislatures, and attorneys general from any airline enforcement. Finally, revamp FAAs slot controls at congested airports like Newark so legacy airlines cannot buy, sell, swap, and give away takeoff and landing access and thwart competition. Like Americas communication airwaves, access to the nations airways belongs to the American people , and major airlines shouldnt profit from it. Addressing ATC failures is imperative. But were also overdue to address systemic market failures of monopoly hubs like Uniteds at Newark. Calling your elected representative in the U.S. House Of Representatives or U.S. Senate is the most effective way to influence policy. To find your representative and senator to voice your position, go to the House website and the Senate website. William J. McGee is a senior fellow for Aviation and Travel at the American Economic Liberties Project. Interview: WIPO expert highlights China's steady rise in innovation and IP development Xinhua) 14:31, September 28, 2025 GENEVA, Sept. 27 (Xinhua) -- China's innovation activities have demonstrated remarkable performance in recent years, achieving long-term, stable, and broad-based progress, Carsten Fink, Chief Economist of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), said in a recent interview with Xinhua. The Global Innovation Index (GII) 2025 report recently released by the WIPO shows that China has risen to 10th place in the 2025 global innovation ranking, up one spot from last year and entering the top tier for the first time. Fink highlighted China's steady rise, noting that China is the only middle-income economy in the Top 30 and has now entered the Top 10 for the first time. "If you observe China's progression in the global innovation index, it has steadily risen over the years, reflecting the underlying growth of China's innovation economy, which is faster than most of the rest of the world," Fink said. Fink emphasized that China's innovation achievements are broad-based, rather than concentrated in a single sector. The GII evaluates the innovation performance of the entire economy rather than focusing on specific technologies. "It's difficult to pinpoint one or two areas with the greatest growth. China has long had strength in digital communications, but we've also seen great innovation in renewable energy, batteries, electric vehicles, and biosciences," he said. On the role of intellectual property (IP), Fink said China's commitment reflects the development of its overall innovation ecosystem. Fink explained that intellectual property plays a key role in encouraging innovation, noting that Chinese companies are increasingly filing patents across various sectors, a trend reflected in WIPO's data. The 2025 GII also reveals that China leads globally in the number of innovation clusters, boasting 24 clusters ranked among the world's top 100. The Shenzhen-Hong Kong-Guangzhou cluster surged to the top spot for the first time, while Beijing (4th) and the Shanghai-Suzhou cluster (6th) secured positions within the top 10. These regions stand as global hotspots for patent applications, technological innovation, and venture capital investment. Fink said he has visited at least ten Chinese cities, including major hubs such as Beijing, Shanghai and Shenzhen, as well as western cities like Chengdu and Chongqing. He noted that he was impressed by their commitment to innovation, as well as the emergence of new enterprises. Fink highlighted China's strong commitment to innovation within its economic development strategy, with substantial investments in scientific systems, education frameworks, and talent cultivation. He said this focus underpins China's growing innovation ecosystem. On the role of national planning, Fink noted that China has just completed its 14th Five-Year Plan and is preparing to launch the 15th. He added that the long-term commitment of policymakers to the innovation system is crucial for nurturing the institutions necessary for innovation to thrive, and that the national plan plays an important role in supporting this process. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) MGX, a fund backed by Dubais ruling family, will take a 15% stake in TikToks U.S. business as part of a restructuring meant to increase American control of the popular video app, the Washington Post reported Friday. The investment, led by Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan, brings MGX into a partnership with Oracle, the database giant co-founded by Larry Ellison. Together, the two will hold roughly 45% of TikToks U.S. entity. With other U.S. investors involved, American companies are expected to own more than 65% of the business. TikToks Chinese parent, ByteDance, will remain a significant shareholder, keeping a 19.9% stake in the U.S. arm, according to the Guardian. That arrangement appears designed to ease concerns in Washington, where President Trump has repeatedly pressed for tighter scrutiny of the apps ownership and data practices. MGXs role in the deal adds another layer of intrigue. Earlier this year, the fund bought $2 billion worth of USD1, a stablecoin launched by Donald Trumps World Liberty Financial. The token is backed by U.S. Treasuries, cash and equivalents, and is pitched as a way for people to access financial services without banks. MGX has already deployed USD1 in its investment in crypto exchange Binance, signaling its willingness to use the stablecoin in large-scale deals. For MGX, the TikTok stake provides a high-profile foothold in the U.S. social media market, where the platforms influence over culture and advertising continues to expand. Close Get email notifications on {{subject}} daily! Your notification has been saved. There was a problem saving your notification. {{description}} Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items. Europe is home to more than 9,000 fintechs. It has produced global champions such as Wise, Klarna, and Adyen in payments, Revolut and Monzo in banking, and Mambu in B2B software. Across the Atlantic, the United States plays host to more than 13,000 fintechs, with leaders like Stripe, PayPal, and Chime. Both continents coexist and compete to produce the most influential companies in financial technology, though the paths taken and outcomes achieved often vary widely. European fintechs raised 3.6 billion in the first half of 2025, 23% higher than in the same period in 2024, with funding on track to reach 7.6 billion for the year. In 2021, this total reached almost 16 billion. But 2021 was an anomaly, a sugar-high: a liquidity-driven bubble when venture investment hit record highs. We dont expect to see those levels for another five to seven years, nor should we seek to recreate that. What matters now is building stamina, not chasing another rush. European fintech funding is on a steady path, tracking at 2019 levels. The challenge for European markets isnt chasing bubbles but building durable ecosystems where capital formation is balanced and sustainable. European scale-ups have long scaled under tighter capital constraints than their American counterparts. The result is companies built on sturdier foundations, less vulnerable to the ups and downs of funding markets. But also, a persistent excess demand for capital and, in turn, more reasonably priced assets in the small-to-mid-market. Visible cracks However, some cracks are starting to show. In 2025 so far, just two deals, Rapyd and FNZ, accounted for nearly half of European fintech funding, leaving much of the rest of the market with less attention. Concentration at the top is not unusual in periods of market caution, but it highlights the growing importance of building a stronger funding base for mid-market companies. By contrast, in the United States the top two fintech deals represented less than 10% of total funding, with capital spread across hundreds of Series A-C rounds. This reflects the greater depth of US capital markets, supported by large institutional pools such as pensions, endowments, and crossover funds. Europe has historically relied more heavily on venture funds and corporate investors. For example, US public pensions and endowments together commit well over $1 trillion to private markets, compared with a far smaller role played by European institutions, where government agencies and corporates are more prominent backers. This means that in quieter years, capital tends to cluster around the largest names. The result is a thinner middle market, not because of a lack of quality companies, but because the supporting financial structures are still developing. Strengthening that layer would help ensure a broader range of companies can scale and eventually reach the public markets. Key Points Alibaba stock has surged lately, paced by its AI investments. Founder Jack Ma has also returned to the company and has been welcomed by President Xi. The stock still looks well-priced compared to U.S. tech stocks. 10 stocks we like better than Alibaba Group Alibaba (NYSE: BABA) notoriously burned investors in 2021. When American tech stocks were soaring during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Chinese tech giant was heading in the other direction as a crackdown from Beijing made the stock kryptonite to many investors, and a weak Chinese economy only made matters worse. Now, after chugging along in the sub-$100 range for a roughly three-year period, something surprising has happened to the stock. Alibaba is soaring. The stock is up 44% over the last month, and has more than doubled year to date, up 110% now. Image source: Alibaba. What's fueling Alibaba's gains? More than anything else, Alibaba's moves into artificial intelligence (AI) and the perceived discount in the stock heading into the year seem to have fueled its rally. While overall growth is still modest, at least compared to pre-pandemic levels, at 10% organic revenue growth in the June quarter, investors have been willing to look past that in favor of its AI strategy. Early in the year, Alibaba announced plans to invest at least $52 billion in cloud computing and AI infrastructure for the next three years. Alibaba is best known for its e-commerce business, which includes Tmall and Taobao, but its cloud business has also been a growth engine for several years, and that seems to be taking center stage in the AI era. Much like in the U.S., Chinese tech companies are rapidly stepping up investments in AI infrastructure in a similar arms race. Alibaba's recent rally began at the end of August after a strong June quarter earnings report that included 26% growth in its cloud intelligence group, and it said AI-related product revenue grew by triple digits for the eighth consecutive quarter. It also touted other improvements in its quick commerce business and cost savings by combining resources in its consumer platforms. Its launch of on-demand delivery on Taobao, for example, led to a 25% increase in monthly active consumers on the Taobao app. Finally, the stock jumped on Sept. 24 after CEO Eddie Wu announced several AI initiatives at a company conference. Alibaba said it would increase AI spending beyond its earlier target of $52 billion over the next three years. It also announced a new partnership with Nvidia in physical AI, working together in areas like robotics and self-driving cars. Finally, the company also unveiled its new large language model, Qwen3-Max, its biggest one yet, with more than 1 trillion parameters. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer triggered fury Today as he revealed plans for UK digital ID, but are major banks planning to take the British pound (GBP) digital too? Britains biggest banks have launched live tests of tokenized sterling, digital versions of bank deposits designed for faster and more controlled payments. (Source GBP USD, TradingView) Six lenders, Barclays, HSBC, Lloyds Banking Group, NatWest, Nationwide, and Santander, are taking part in the pilot, which is being coordinated by UK Finance. The project began on September 26 and will run until mid-2026. The tests focus on three use cases: marketplace payments, remortgaging, and digital-asset settlement. According to UK Finance, the goal is to cut fraud, speed up settlement, and give customers more control over how money moves. This marks one of the most significant steps yet in the UKs push toward programmable money. Instead of creating a new currency, tokenized deposits work as digital representations of money already held at banks. They are expected to play a central role in the countrys broader digital-finance strategy, sitting alongside the Bank of Englands work on digital money and securities. DISCOVER: 9+ Best High-Risk, High-Reward Crypto to Buy in 2025 Why Does the Bank of England Prefer Tokenized Deposits Over Stablecoins? Britains pilot of tokenized sterling deposits is gathering momentum with backing from top banks and major industry partners. UK Finance describes the tokens as digital versions of commercial-bank money. They carry the same protections as regular deposits but come with added programmability, allowing payments to be automated and tailored to specific needs. The pilot is supported by Quant on technology, EY for advisory, and Linklaters on legal work. This project is a powerful example of industry collaboration to deliver next-generation payments, said Jana Mackintosh, UK Finances managing director for payments and innovation. The Bank of England has also pushed banks toward this model, arguing that tokenized deposits are safer than privately issued stablecoins because they keep funds within the regulated banking system. According to Reuters, the pilot will expand from marketplace payments into remortgaging and digital-asset settlement. HSBC has signaled that client demand is strongest in cross-border payments, where tokenized deposits could cut costs and settlement times. DISCOVER: 16+ New and Upcoming Binance Listings in 2025 How Does the UK Regulated Liability Network (RLN) Shape Tokenized Bank Money? Tokenized sterling deposits are not central bank digital currency (CBDC) or private stablecoins. They are commercial bank liabilities recorded on distributed ledgers, designed to work with todays payment systems and future tokenized markets. ANOTHER Wind Farm is being planned for the Birr area. The company proposing to construct the turbines is RWE from Kilkenny City who are calling their project the Ballincor Wind Farm. RWE says they began consultation on Ballincor in July 2023 when they delivered a brochure to homes about the proposed development including contact details. The day after the brochure was delivered, they began their door to door meetings. Last week, Monday September 15, they conducted more door to door meetings in the area, reaching out to the community to update them on our progress. When we reached out to the community initially, we were investigating the potential development of 12 turbines on the site. As the project has progressed, and after undertaking environmental and engineering studies, we are now looking at a proposed wind farm of 11 turbines, along with battery energy storage. "Each turbine will be up to 180 metres in height, with a capacity of up to 7 Megawatts generating up to 77 Megawatts towards Irelands climate targets. We are still working through the EIAR (Environmental Impact Assessment Reports) and some tweaking might occur, but we believe that the proposed turbine locations will not change significantly between now and when we apply for planning permission. Apparently, RWE has met with a mixed reaction from locals on the doorsteps. The Wind Farm will be located between Carrig and Sharavogue, a short distance south of Birr. RWE says that it's part of the Irish Government's Climate Action Plan which sets out a roadmap for taking decisive action to halve our countrys carbon emissions by 2030 and reach net zero carbon emissions no later than 2050. The science is indisputable and the effects of climate change are already clear. The Climate Action Plan 2023 (CAP23) is the second update to Irelands Climate Action Plan 2019. RWE points out that in addition to the contribution of the proposals contained in CAP23 to reduce Irelands greenhouse gas emissions, many of the changes that are required will have positive economic and societal benefits, including cleaner air, warmer homes, and a more sustainable economy for the long term. "To achieve these goals, we must harness our massive renewable natural resources. CAP23 provides us with greater energy security, stable prices, more jobs, and regional development, particularly for rural communities. Electricity will play an important role in the decarbonisation of other sectors through electrification, including transport, heating, and industry. Among the measures in the plan is to increase the proportion of renewable electricity to up to 80% by 2030. A target of 9 gigawatts (GW) of renewable energy from onshore wind, 8 GW from solar, and at least 5 GW of offshore wind energy has been set to be achieved by 2030. To get us to 9GW of onshore wind we will need to double the installed capacity of onshore wind in the Republic of Ireland from over 4,400MW to 9,000MW. For more information see www.rwe.com/ireland READ NEXT: Shock as Carrig Wind Farm gets go-ahead despite huge local objection An Offaly man who used a drug to control physical pain after suffering a hand injury said he has given up the drug at Tullamore District Court on Wednesday last. Before the court was Ian Dunne with an address at 6 Canal View, Daingean. Sgt Kearns, court presenter, told the court that on March 20, 2025, Gardai executed a search warrant at the residence of the accused and found drugs valued at 160 in a plastic bag. READ NEXT: Six month suspended sentence for having drugs for sale or supply Sgt Kearns said he has 13 previous convictions and pleads guilty to the offence. The defendant addressed Judge Andrew Cody in his defence and explained he had suffered a serious hand injury last year where he "cut the top of my finger off" and was using the drug to help ease the physical pain. READ NEXT: Birr woman sentenced for stealing vodka and bedsheets He said he no longer uses the drug and disposed of everything associated with the drug. He is currently not working and is scheduled for surgery on the hand injury in Dublin in February. Judge Cody fined the defendant 300 with three months to pay. The situation is horrible, getting worse, and demands urgent action and many of you are acting. Please demand the freedom flotilla of nearly 50 ships be protected from Israeli piracy. Please demand that the slaughter is stopped and the mass starvation ended. We ALL must double our effort. As a minimum use the keyboard power and write to as many contacts you can get from internet (politicians, media etc).. The talk of Netanyahu to an empty hall at the UNGA was 1) demonic (for its audacious bragging about genocide), 2) delusional (in still hoping to kill the resistance and escaping indigtments for corruption and war crimes), 3) deceptive (full of lies long discreited from Hamas beheading/burning babies and raping women to Israel defending western democracies), 4) dismissive (of the horrendous atrocities he commtted for which he is indigted and of the will of the international communities to end the ecxtermination campaign), and 5) destructive (of all shreds of human decency or empathy). Western and Arab rulers who still blabber about "two-states" are only prolonging what everyone knows must end urgently: Genocide and ethnic leansing and also end the ideology behind the slaughter which is Zionism. The latter is a racist genocidal (and eventually suicidal) idea working violently to take over not just our region but exerting hegemony globally. It is a movement using blackmail (e.g. the Epstein Mossad videos), subterfuge and endless lies to achieve corrupt ends and defame any decent human being (including Jews) who dare to tell the truth. Taking the worst myths of the bible (from genociding Amalek to Samson fighting philistine canaanites), this narrative of history is increasingly exposed for what it is: lies to justify genocide and piracy of other people's lands. The US/Israel empire is imploding and this explains the frenzy of destruction. There is a rising new multilateral world order led by the BRICS countries. The transition is difficult and marred by genocide and turmoil. But it is happening. We must push and help shape the new world order to be more people friendly and hopefully more democratic. Knowledge, AI, and networking make change more possible. But we must redouble our efforts (91 more civilians murdered today, >250,000 in two years). I am quoted in this Guardian article: Israels ecocide in Gaza sends this message: even if we stopped dropping bombs, you couldnt live here (George Monbiot). And a research paper: Rintoul-Hynes, N.L., 2025. Environmental considerations for post-war reconstruction of Gaza. Ambio, pp.1-6. Systematic Destruction of Gaza historical landmarks and cultural heritage. Research paper in the BMJ: Patterns of war related trauma in Gaza during armed conflict: survey study of international healthcare workers. Jeffrey Sachs coogent observations. America has it coming. Great response by American convert who left the states many years ago. The Poisonous Chalice of Recognition: A Double-Edged Sword for Palestine. Joint Statement of PalestineGlobal Mental Health Network and its International Counterparts. More on the professional (Zionist) assasination of Charlie Kirk. Stay Humane, act, and keep hope and Palestine alive Mazin Qumsiyeh A bedouin in cyberspace, a villager at home Professor, Founder, and (volunteer) Director Palestine Museum of Natural History Palestine Institute of Biodiversity and Sustainability Bethlehem University Occupied Palestine facebook pages Personal Institute French In the tasting room at Steven Smith Teamaker, the ambience is hushed, the color scheme is a soothing mint green and the design is a cross between genteel minimalism and industrial chic. A huge window behind the bar provides a glimpse of the production floor, where teamakers produce artisanal blends with names like Red Nectar, Ode to Whiskey and Dandy Detox. The cafe, at 110 S.E. Washington St., is tucked in among the warehouses of Portlands Central Eastside, an oasis of serenity that belies a hard truth: Steven Smith Teamaker has spent months caught in the crossfire of a bruising international trade war. But Darren Marshall, the teamakers CEO, has landed on a tried-and-true strategy to reassure his employees as uncertainty and anxiety grip the American workforce: communication, communication and more communication. At town hall meetings, at their desks and in his office. So far, it seems to be working. Steven Smith Teamaker is among the winners of The Oregonian/OregonLives annual Top Workplaces competition. Energage, The Oregonian/OregonLives research partner, surveyed tens of thousands of workers in the Portland region about job satisfaction and then selected and ranked the top companies based on those responses. In the survey, Smith employees offered lavish praise when asked about their jobs. Smith Tea offers an incredibly positive work environment, one wrote. I also feel very supported and respected by coworkers and management. Packaging a holiday tea blend at the Steven Smith Teamaker headquarters in Portland. Allison Barr This job allows me to be myself, another employee responded, while learning and growing my knowledge of not only tea culture, but Smith teas specifically. This years survey coincided with an economic rollercoaster in the early months of 2025. American workers have been buffeted by rising tariffs, massive layoffs and higher prices across industries. The Budget Lab at Yale has predicted that the unemployment rate will rise from 4.2% to 4.7% which reflects job losses for a half-million people. Openings for factory jobs fell by 100,000 in the first half of the year. The United Parcel Service alone expects to eliminate 20,000 jobs this year due in part to the increased use of automation technology. The last six months have been the toughest of my time at Smith, and maybe of my career, Marshall. The instability in our country creates an instability with our people. Smith imports 300 ingredients from 30 countries, including Japan, China, India, Sri Lanka and Egypt, which have been among the fattest targets in this years trade war. Marshall predicted the company will face an overall increase of 24% on import costs. But rather than cutting payroll to balance the books, the company plans to raise prices 5% to 10%. The beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 provided Marshall and his management team with a blueprint for the current crisis. The company lost 70% of its business in the early months of 2020, but rebounded to end the year with double-digit growth. No one was laid off. Communicating early and often with his employees was critical. Marshall now hosts a town hall every month to update employees on the state of the business, answer their questions and hear their concerns. He also makes a consistent effort to connect with employees individually as he makes the rounds each day, encouraging a sense of stability and optimism. It helps that the company has continued hiring his payroll grew from 86 people to 100 people in the first six months of the year. Yes, he said, the world around us is in chaos, but we try to create an environment that insulates people from that. Jason Wingard, a professor at Harvard and an expert in leadership development, has warned companies that if they dont adapt to shield their workforce from the churning economy, they may face a painful spiral of low morale, burnout, anxiety and a reduction in productivity. This is an unprecedented time in history, Wingard wrote recently in Forbes. More change is inevitable in the coming months. Leaders who fail to act will find themselves at a severe disadvantage. Lurching markets have also changed the steel industry. On June 4, the Trump administration doubled tariffs on most imports to encourage the production of domestic steel. Economists have predicted that American steel producers may boost hiring to meet an uptick in domestic sales. But those gains could be offset by job losses in related industries that rely on steel, such as construction, according to an analysis by the Greenberg Center for Geoeconomic Studies at the Council on Foreign Relations. SteelFab, a fabricator with offices in Wilsonville and a plant in Tangent, has fared well so far. Rather than cutting jobs, the company has broadened its reach on the West Coast, competing for sales in Los Angeles and other points south. Justin Gilbert, president of SteelFabs Oregon division, is sticking with a simple message in quarterly town halls. Over the summer, SteelFab enjoyed a robust six-month backlog on orders. Reminding employees of SteelFabs enviable position is a motivator, Gilbert said. Because there are times where theyre working overtime to hit a ship date, and if you can explain to them why and what happened, theyre much more excited to go to work on Saturday than if they have no clue, he added. If you explain to them, Hey, this is coming, heres why, heres what were doing about it, then they can go home to their family and explain the same thing. Sometimes, company leaders say too much information can make life unnecessarily hard for workers. Another winner in this years Top Workplaces survey is Blue Marble, an Ashland maker of math and science toys and games. Blue Marble CEO Jared Wolfson is selective in what he shares with his staff. His message is simple: No one can predict what tomorrow will bring. Dont worry about what you cant control. Focus instead on high-quality work every day. In some cases, when you overshare, Wolfson said, it makes people feel actually less comfortable, because they feel more concerned about things that maybe in some cases, they wouldnt even need to worry about. Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield announced Sunday the state filed a federal lawsuit that seeks to block President Donald Trumps deployment of troops to the streets of Portland. Beth Nakamura Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield announced Sunday that the state filed a lawsuit to block President Donald Trump from deploying the National Guard to Portland. Rayfields office raced to file the complaint after Gov. Tina Kotek received a memo at 9:05 a.m. from Trumps defense secretary, Pete Hegseth, calling 200 members of the Oregon National Guard into federal service in the city for 60 days. The memo was sent a day after Trump posted on social media that he had authorized federal troops to protect what he dubbed War ravaged Portland," and spoke briefly with Kotek by phone. Rayfield, appearing with Kotek and Portland Mayor Keith Wilson during a virtual news conference Sunday afternoon, decried any attempt to send military troops to an Oregon city, calling it an infringement of state and local sovereignty and a violation of federal law as the suit was filed. The facts cannot justify this overreach, says the 41-page suit filed by the State of Oregon and City of Portland against Trump. It notes that protests outside the Immigration and Customs Enforcement building in South Portland have been small in recent weeks, typically drawing less than 30 people. Defendants heavy-handed deployment of troops threatens to escalate tensions and stokes new unrest, the suit says. Filed in federal court in Portland, it marks the latest legal challenge to Trumps move to send troops into cities and asks a judge to bar Trump from any deployment of troops to Oregon. The three leaders held a virtual news conference Sunday afternoon to announce the lawsuit filed by the state of Oregon and city of Portland against President Donald Trump. Screenshot I am no longer in charge of the members (of the Oregon National Guard) that he will be calling up, Kotek said. She said she had no idea when troops the president planned to send to Portland would arrive or what they would be doing. I dont have any details, she said. The memo Kotek received said the chief of the National Guard Bureau will coordinate details of the mobilization with the Oregon National Guards adjutant general, along with the chair of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and commander of the U.S. Northern Command. A day earlier, the Department of Homeland Security had asked the governor to mobilize up to 200 members of the Oregon National Guard to help protect federal property and personnel and warned that if she did not in the next 12 hours, the defense secretary might instead. That request was made at 2:21 p.m. on Saturday, according to the suit. Gov. Tina Kotek received this memo at 9:05 a.m. on Sunday, informing her that President Donald Trump had invoked a section of federal law to deploy 200 Oregon National Guard members into federal service. Governor's Office The Oregon National Guard is in the process of mobilizing 200 members to support the protection of federal law facilities for 60 days, confirmed Lt. Col. Stephen Bomar, spokesperson for the Oregon Military Department. Our job is to protect Oregonians and defend national interests when directed as we are now, he said in an email. The Guard members were not at the ICE building in Portland Sunday night, he said. Trump has moved to federalize National Guard troops under federal law known as Title 10, Section 12406. The law says the president can call up the National Guard in federal service when the president is unable with regular forces to execute the laws of the United States, repel an invasion by a foreign nation or suppress a rebellion or the danger of a rebellion against the authority of the U.S. government. Such orders, the code says, shall be issued through the governors of the States, or in the case of the District of Columbia, through the commanding general of its National Guard. The attorney generals office filed the suit at 2 p.m. Sunday, after learning of the defense secretarys memo at 9:32 a.m. The office also will be filing a temporary restraining order within the next 24 hours to try to block an arrival of troops, Rayfield said. He said he hopes to get a hearing before a judge later this week. In America, we dont use our United States military on our own citizens, except in extreme circumstances, he said. Kotek called it a sad day for Oregon, saying she was disturbed that the Trump administration was not listening to the people of the state. The governor said she shared her strong objections with Trump during a seven-minute phone call on Saturday after waking up to his social media post. She said Trump had told her during that call that he thought Portlands federal courthouse was under attack, which she said was absolutely not true. She informed him that the only demonstrations occurring were outside the federal immigration building and they were being managed. She then heard from an assistant to Trump by text message that Trump was concerned about activities outside Portlands ICE building, but she said she thought shed have an opportunity to follow up with him on Sunday. This is not necessary, and I believe its unlawful and it will make Oregonians less safe, she said, of the troop deployment decision. President Donald Trump, right, salutes Air Force Col. Christopher M. Robinson, Commander, 89th Airlift Wing, before boarding Marine One upon his arrival at Joint Base Andrews, Md., on Friday. AP Photo/Luis M. Alvarez The suit alleges that Trumps actions violate the 10th Amendments guarantee that police power including ensuring safety at protests and deterring violence crimes resides with the states, not the federal government. The presence of National Guard troops will create confusion among the public, threaten to undermine the work local police are doing to maintain order and combat crime and harm businesses and tourism in Portland, it said. The Portland Police Bureau is fully equipped to address the sporadic protests outside the ICE building, the suit said. Its Central Precinct has been monitoring the nightly protests outside the ICE building and has the ability to send additional officers from other precincts, call in its Rapid Reaction Team of officers to deal with crowd control or rely on its county and state police partners if needed, according to the suit. The unlawful deployment of federalized National Guard troops to usurp that law enforcement role will directly interfere with the ability of state and local law enforcement to deal with any given situation, the suit said. Earlier this month, the District of Columbias attorney general filed a suit to try to halt the federal governments deployment of National Guard to the districts streets. In California, a federal judge granted an injunction declaring the action of federal troops in Los Angeles an unlawful encroachment on state and local authority. The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals has put a temporary hold, or stay, on the injunction as it considers the governments appeal. City attorneys from Portland and Beaverton joined about 30 other cities in a friend-of-the-court brief filed last Monday in support of Californias challenge and Breyers injunction. Kotek said the Oregon National Guard members are Oregon citizens who are trained for real emergencies, including wildfire suppression and are now being called into a mission without a clear goal. I dont need them in Portland, she said. When there is no basis for this, it is incomprehensible. It is very concerning for our country. But the governor made it clear that she wants the public to respect the members of the Oregon National Guard, noting they are citizen soldiers, who are our neighbors and our friends. I will use everything in my authority to support them as Oregonians, and I will have their back, she said. Mayors from other cities across Oregon are expected to join with Mayor Wilson at Portland City Hall on Monday in support of the citys challenge of Trumps troop deployment, Wilson said. Wilson called the presidents actions a big show of force, and said he and other mayors will be pushing back at this overreach. It would be an understatement to say that I am so disappointed at the irresponsibility of our federal government, Wilson said. We dont need troops on our soil in Portland. Portland is not an enemy. As Oregons governor and attorney general turned to the court to try to intervene, the American Civil Liberties Union of Oregon, the Urban League of Portland, a statewide union and other local groups galvanized for an afternoon rally and march on the citys waterfront, distributing fliers that read, No Federal Forces in Portland! Oregons suit against Trumps deployment of troops comes as the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals is considering a similar case from California. On Sept. 2, U.S. District Judge Charles R. Breyer of San Francisco issued an injunction barring the federal governments use of the National Guard in California to make arrests or engage in searches, security patrols, crowd control, evidence collection, interrogations or work as informants. Breyer said his order did not bar the government from using the troops in ways that are consistent with federal law, such as protecting federal property. His injunction was limited to California. In that case, Breyers noted Congress in 1878 passed the Posse Comitatus Act, which prohibited the use of the military for domestic purposes. It bars military forces from direct involvement in the execution of laws or actions that pervade the activities of civilian authorities. The Trump administration argues that a constitutional exception to the Posse Comitatus Act gives the president authority to protect federal property, employees and federal functions, pointing to the federal code, Section 12406. Breyer rejected the Trump administrations argument. While some people engaged in violence in the Los Angeles protests, there was no rebellion, nor was civilian law enforcement unable to respond to the protests and enforce the law, the judge wrote. The Trump administration refused to coordinate with state and local officials in California and had military troops execute functions that the federal law bars the military from performing, the judge wrote. Five days before President Trump authorized sending federal troops to Portland, the citys attorney joined counterparts from across the country in a court brief supporting California Gov. Gavin Newsoms legal fight to kick out hundreds of troops that remain in his state. The attorneys from 32 cities, including Beaverton in Oregon, three counties and the U.S. Conference of Mayors argue that the federal military operation in Los Angeles runs contrary to the public interest and only inflames tensions with the public. State and local police are best positioned to provide civilian law enforcement, including crowd control and security, according to the brief filed last Monday with the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. Using the military to perform such duties represents an unlawful encroachment on state and local authority, the filing says. The brief provides a preview of legal arguments that Oregon likely would raise in federal court should the Trump administration carry out the presidents authorization to send federalized National Guard troops to Portland. Trump promised on social media Saturday to provide all necessary troops to protect the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement building in South Portland, where protesters have gathered throughout the summer and dwindled to just a few dozen people. The brief was filed in support of a Sept. 2 ruling by a federal judge in California that found Trump, his defense secretary and the Defense Departments deployment of National Guard troops and Marines to Los Angeles in June violated a federal law that prohibits the use of the U.S. military to execute domestic law. U.S. District Judge Charles R. Breyer of San Francisco issued an injunction barring the federal governments use of the National Guard in California to make arrests or engage in searches, security patrols, crowd control, evidence collection, interrogations or work as informants. Breyer said his order did not bar the government from using the troops in ways that are consistent with federal law, such as protecting federal property. His injunction was limited to California. The Trump administration then urged the 9th Circuit to put a hold on Breyers order, pending a full appeal. A three-judge panel of the 9th Circuit put a temporary hold on Breyers order on Sept. 4 as the appellate court considers the merit of the matter. Government lawyers argue that Trump mobilized the National Guard to protect federal property and employees, including those enforcing immigration laws, from violence. They say the Guard members have stayed within that limited protective mission. Portland and the other cities urged the appeals court to allow Breyers injunction to take effect. They contend the troops are acting as a force multiplier for federal law enforcement aims despite government claims that they are there to safeguard immigration agents from protesters. It sets a dangerous precedent for states and local governments across this nation, the friend-of-court brief says. The way the government sent the troops to California without coordination with state officials and local police has disrupted the Los Angeles economy, creating a de facto lockdown of neighborhoods across the region, the brief says. It quoted from 19th century French historian and writer Alex De Tocquevilles book Democracy in America in 1835, which said: The strength of free peoples resides in the local community. Local institutions are to liberty what primary schools are to science; they put it within the peoples reach. The cities that signed onto the brief have a critical interest in maintaining sovereignty over local law enforcement, freedom from economic harm and civic prosperity, their lawyers argue. Deployment of troops for domestic policing is legally unfounded, they say. Every day that military troops in combat gear, carrying assault rifles and trained to kill in war police in our jurisdictions is a day that sows fear and mistrust in the population, the brief says. Portland City Attorney Robert Taylor and Beaverton City Attorney Scott J. Kaplan signed the brief. Some of the other cities included are Seattle, Tacoma, New York, Boston, Chicago, Boulder, Colorado, Hartford, Connecticut, and Providence, Rhode Island. In Breyers opinion, he noted Congress in 1878 passed the Posse Comitatus Act, which prohibited the use of the military for domestic purposes. It bars military forces from direct involvement in the execution of laws or actions that pervade the activities of civilian authorities. Congress acted then to prevent the federal government from deploying troops to the South to police polling places. The Trump administration argues that a constitutional exception to the Posse Comitatus Act gives the president authority to protect federal property, employees and federal functions, pointing to part of the federal code, known as Section 12406. That says the president can call up the National Guard in federal service when the president is unable with regular forces to execute the laws of the United States, repel an invasion by a foreign nation or suppress a rebellion or the danger of a rebellion against the authority of the U.S. government. Such orders, the code says, shall be issued through the governors of the States, or in the case of the District of Columbia, through the commanding general of its National Guard. Breyer rejected the governments interpretation of the code, finding it was not grounded in the history of the legislation, Supreme Court review or common sense. There is little support in the Founding Era for an inherent constitutional authority for the President to call forth the militia, or to use the military generally, to execute the laws, he wrote. While some people engaged in violence in the Los Angeles protests, there was no rebellion, nor was civilian law enforcement unable to respond to the protests and enforce the law, the judge wrote. The Trump administration refused to coordinate with state and local officials and had military troops execute functions that the federal law bars the military from performing, Breyer wrote. The federal troops set up protective perimeters and traffic blockades and did crowd control in violation of the Posse Comitatus Act, the judge found. Los Angeles police and sheriffs officials received a mere two hours notice of federal operations, he said. The Trump administrations lack of cooperation with state and local officials and law enforcement raised red flags, the judge said, and the lack of any showing that state and local officials were unable to do the work themselves. While Breyer said he recognized federal employees should be safe from harm, the government must ensure their safety by coordinating with state and local law enforcement agencies. To use this as a hook to send military troops alongside federal agents wherever they go proves too much and would frustrate the very purpose of the Posse Comitatus Act, Breyer concluded. Breyer also delved into the history of the countrys founding era. The presence of British troops in the colonies first gave rise to criticisms of the domestic use of military troops in peacetime and public resentment of the use of troops in such a manner sparked the Boston Massacre, he noted. The judge quoted founding father Alexander Hamilton, who said that the whole power of raising armies was lodged in the LEGISLATURE, not in the EXECUTIVE, in The Federalist Papers. His ruling noted that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth directed 4,000 federalized National Guard troops and about 700 Marines to Los Angeles in June. Almost three months later, 300 National Guard members remain there, he noted. Citing Trumps stated intention to call National Guard troops into federal service in other cities and the ongoing risk that the administration would act unlawfully by creating a national police force with the President as its chief, Breyer barred the government from violating federal law in California. None of my friends have ever asked me to be a bridesmaid. I didnt realize how much that hurt until it was my turn to get married. fizkes - stock.adobe.com Dear Annie: I wonder if you could shed some light on something thats been bothering me. I have five girlfriends Ive been close with for many years. I keep their secrets, I dont talk behind their backs, and Ive always treated them with respect. As weve gotten older and more serious about our lives, we each began moving out on our own, getting engaged and getting married. When I got engaged, my fiance did it in a very big way. I was taken by surprise, and he even arranged for someone to film it. I was very excited to share the DVD of our engagement with my friends, but the day I brought it over, nobody bothered to watch the whole thing. Over the years, Ive been very generous, buying these women gifts and/or giving money at their weddings. And still, none of them have ever asked me to be a bridesmaid. I didnt realize how much that hurt until it was my turn to get married. I asked one of them to be my maid of honor, but because it was a destination wedding, she couldnt, and I completely understood that. Still, none of them even gave me a shower gift, which upset me after all the money Ive spent on them. The five of us have been friends for more than eight years. Ive spent hours on the phone listening to their heartaches, and I thought our bond was stronger than this. A good friend of mine from school who is outside this group told me she thinks theyre jealous since I was the first to move out and graduate from school, and Ive always had a bit more financially than the others. But I cant accept that answer. Weve been too close for that. I appreciate your advice to others, and I hope you can help me. -- Perplexed in the East Dear Perplexed: Youve been generous with your time, money and heart, so of course it hurts to feel like its not being reciprocated. But true friendship isnt measured in gifts or grand gestures. Its measured in consistency and trust -- who shows up and how. Based on your letter, these women arent showing up for you. That doesnt mean they dont care at all, but youre clearly on different pages. Perhaps their priorities have changed as youve gotten older; maybe there really is some jealousy at play. Whatever the reason, you can keep pouring energy into this group and feeling slighted, or you can prioritize investing in relationships that fill your cup. Dear Annie: I really enjoy your column and read it daily. Ive gotten a lot of insight from reading about other peoples lives and your words of wisdom to them. As a hair stylist for over 35 years, I often offer a listening ear, too. My clients share many personal concerns and life stories with me. One thing I have always shared with them is to reverse the situation. When in doubt, what would you do or say if you were in xyzs shoes? When you reflect on that, oftentimes the answer youre looking for is right in front of you. Keep up the good work! -- A Friend From Michigan Dear Friend: I couldnt agree more. Youre right, perspective changes everything. Thats why I so often preach the Golden Rule: Treat others the way youd want to be treated. A little compassion goes a long way, and its advice that never wears out. Your clients are lucky to have you -- as a stylist and a sounding board! Send your questions for Annie Lane to dearannie@creators.com. COPYRIGHT 2023 CREATORS.COM The current situation, combined with increased geopolitical risks and strong global demand, suggests a potential shift towards a bullish environment. Even OPEC+'s theoretical production and export increases may not be enough to mitigate this shift, or in some cases, may not be sufficient at all. This potential for a bullish market should prompt all market participants to adopt preparedness and strategic planning. While most energy analysts are still obsessed with OPEC, US shale, or Israels operations in Gaza, Russia, not only a pivotal player inside the so-called OPEC+ group, but also one of the worlds leading oil and gas exporters, is looking at a very dire situation. Ukrainian drones are not only degrading Moscows ability to turn Russian crude into exportable petroleum products (diesel, gasoline, kerosene) but also forcing Russian refineries to go offline. Both issues are hitting Putins war economy very hard, as they decrease options to monetize its hydrocarbon potential (exports) and also force higher domestic price settings for Russian citizens and external parties. Lately, in a move to squeeze Russia really, Ukraine has increased its attacks on Russian oil ports, in a move to hit export potential, while in the end forcing Russian crude oil production to be shut in. Almost daily, reports are showcasing the strategic success of Ukraine's campaign, which, in addition to its battlefield tactics, has effectively executed precision strikes and drone attacks on Russian oil refineries, fuel depots, and related logistics. These intentional strikes have targeted the Kremlins economic lifelines, leading some to assert that the most effective sanctions currently hitting Russias war chest or Putins lifeline are the Ukrainian drones. While the world is watching the UN General Assembly discussions on Gaza-Israel, hybrid warfare in Europe (drones) and Trump, global oil markets are showing increased instability, as Ukrainian drones are destroying key oil and gas infrastructure inside of Russia. Over the last few weeks, a tsunami of reports has been published about a possible oil glut in the coming months or years, supported by OPEC-8 decisions to increase the export ceiling. However, reality in the market shows a different picture. Until now, no real crude oil price crash is showing; global prices are even very stable, while fundamentals in the markets are increasingly influenced by external geopolitical threats, not only Russian aggression towards NATO, or a heating up of the East Med (Turkey, Israel, Gaza Flotilla), but also increasingly Ukraines effective strikes on Russias infrastructure. Story Continues The latest reports from Russia indicate that Ukrainian drones have hit dozens of Russian fuel facilities, while at the same time, maritime drones and missiles are being used. The potential of Ukraines latest military addition, the Flamingo Missile, could be a watershed development. This missile can reach much further into Russian territory with a larger payload, potentially causing significant damage to key oil and gas infrastructure. Western and Russian outlets have also indicated that over a million barrels per day of refining throughput is being hit or removed from the market, as major refineries and pipeline centers are being shut down or taken offline. For global oil markets, Russias exports are significant, as it is a leading exporter of diesel, fuel oil, and kerosene. The potential impact of the Flamingo Missile, combined with the ongoing drone attacks, underscores the evolving nature of the geopolitical risks in the oil market. While global markets are being hit increasingly, even if additional Russian crude is exported, the situation has become very dire. Independent reports from Russia indicate severe fuel shortages in several regions of the country, not only impacting the war economy sectors (manufacturing, defense) but also increasing the potential for internal unrest. Russian oligarchs have been complaining about the fuel and energy situation for weeks. While Russian refineries, which supply the domestic market, are affected, seaborne crude flows are increasing, as Moscow is forced to export more. Russia doesnt hold vast crude oil storage facilities or volumes, leaving it with no option but to export crude. Some Asian markets will be happy, as most Russian seaborne volumes will head there. Still, regional markets for Russian products will be struggling to find additional supplies. All in all, this could mean a short-term increase in supply to Asia. To what extent this will be possible, given that the US and EU are increasing pressure, is, however, a valid question, especially when considering India. If Russia doesn't manage to export the increased volumes, domestic oil production may need to be shut in. When the market recognizes the increased geopolitical risks, a higher risk premium will result in higher oil prices. Downstream, prices will increase globally, as the current situation and todays statement of renewed, stricter export bans on diesel or other products by Moscow will impact the market. Asian or Middle Eastern refineries will not be able to counter this. Considering all these factors, the real net effect could be a decrease in global product availability in some consuming regions, even as seaborne crude volumes remain robust. This could then lead to a somewhat unexpected tightening of markets. OPEC+ export increases are unlikely to make a significant difference. Over the last few months, most OPEC-8 increases have been technical, aimed at legitimizing existing overproduction. The remaining spare production capacity of the group, or even OPEC+ as a whole, is shrinking. Current scenarios do not even include a new confrontation in the Middle East or the East Med, US actions against Venezuela, or a large-scale force majeure. In this context, the role of OPEC+ as a swing producer is limited, and the market should not rely solely on its actions to stabilize the situation. By Cyril Widdershoven for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com Read this article on OilPrice.com An active shooter was reported at a church Sunday morning, Sept. 28, in Grand Blanc Township, police said. Lukas Katilius | MLive.com Editors note: Live updates for this incident can be found here. GENESEE COUNTY, MI An active shooter was reported at a church Sunday morning, Sept. 28, in Grand Blanc Township, police said. The incident happened at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 4285 McCandlish Road, according to the Grand Blanc Township Police Department. There are multiple victims its not clear how many and the shooter is down, police said. The church is actively on fire. There is no threat to the public, however, residents are advised to avoid the area. A reunification site has been established for individuals on site, at the pavilion to the north of the church. Offsite reunification will be at Trillium movie theater at 8220 Trillium Circle Ave., according to police. This story will be updated as more information becomes available. The Taliban on Sunday freed a U.S. citizen from an Afghan prison, weeks after they said they had reached an agreement with U.S. envoys on a prisoner exchange as part of an effort to normalize relations. The deputy spokesperson for the Taliban Foreign Ministry, Zia Ahmad Takal, identified the man as Amir Amiri. He did not say when Amiri was detained, why or where. An official with knowledge of the release said Amiri had been detained by the ruling Taliban in Afghanistan since December 2024 and was on his way back to the U.S. The official spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to discuss the details with the media. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio welcomed Amiris release, saying it marked the administrations determination, reinforced by the presidents recent executive order, to protect American nationals from wrongful detention abroad. While this marks an important step forward, additional Americans remain unjustly detained in Afghanistan. President Trump will not rest until all our captive citizens are back home. -- The Associated Press Gov. Tina Kotek, Portland Mayor Keith Wilson and other elected officials and community leaders gather in downtown Portland after President Donald Trump wrote on social media that he has authorized sending federal troops to Portland. Screenshot Lets be clear. There is zero cause or justification for President Donald Trump to send federal troops to Portland and authorize full force. Despite Trumps bluster over the very limited protests outside the Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility in South Portland, the city is not war ravaged, nor is the ICE building under siege by domestic terrorists. Portlanders, of course, know this already, because we live, work and raise our families here. We know from our daily routines school drop-offs, commutes through the city and evening get-togethers that Trumps characterizations are divorced from reality. While the modest protests outside the ICE building have occasionally resulted in arrests and have frustrated neighbors, the reality does not remotely match what Trump has described. And some scuffles, according to Portland Police, appear to have been provoked by federal officers themselves. We also recognize, however, that millions of people outside of Portland may not know what to believe. Some conservative outlets have further distorted the picture by airing cherry-picked footage from 2020, when protests regularly turned destructive. That makes our next steps as a community all the more critical. Oregonians must resist reacting impetuously to Trumps bombast or actions, which will only feed negative narratives used to discredit our values. We cannot allow Portland to be turned into a prop for Trumps authoritarian theatrics. Gov. Tina Kotek and Portland Mayor Keith Wilson are setting the right tone, with sober leadership that emphasizes strategy over rhetoric. At a press conference in downtown Portland yesterday, as people biked and walked past in the background, Kotek and Wilson emphatically refuted the need for federal troops while urging people to remain calm. Kotek also said she would not approve deployment of the Oregon National Guard in Portland and is talking with Attorney General Dan Rayfield about next steps. But they can take other actions as well. Kotek and Wilson should acknowledge that federal agencies have the right to ensure their own security even as the city and state object to immigration enforcement. While Portland Police has been assessing and reassessing how to keep the peace without supporting ICE activities, they should ensure that business owners and residents concerns are factored in. And they can encourage Oregonians to take actions like flooding the White House with messages objecting to Trumps decision or continuing the grassroots social media campaign that shows the beauty of living in Portland. Staying coolheaded while showing Oregonians that they are looking at all legal and logistical ways to protect Oregons interests will help keep the temperature down. We hope to see other elected officials, including Republicans, also push back on the misleading narratives and advocate for the Trump administration to engage with Oregons leaders rather than send in troops. Republicans who disagree with Oregons sanctuary status can voice their positions while still supporting broad deference to local communities autonomy over public safety and protest policies. The handful of criminal incidents connected with the ICE demonstrations do not merit the presidents five-alarm-fire treatment, which seems more about using Portland as an effigy for liberal values than a legitimate exercise for federal interests. Unfortunately, were seeing some politicians jump on the Trump bandwagon. Labor Secretary Lori Chavez-DeRemer, bounced by voters in 2024 from her Oregon congressional seat, praised and parroted Trump, alleging that she has seen how lawlessness has transformed Portland from a beautiful place to live to a crime-ridden war zone. Oregon House Republican Leader Christine Drazan similarly offered dystopian language warning of violent mobs and domestic terrorists. These characterizations are neither accurate nor helpful in defusing a situation that begs for statesmanship. But Portlanders must do their part and not play right into Trumps hands. Its unclear even at this stage whether Trump will follow through with sending troops. At the end of the day, this may be a show of force. But thats all it is, its a big show, Wilson said. Portlanders should not give it the audience that the Trump administration craves. Certainly, Portland, like other cities across the country, has its problems. Some of those problems stem from Portlands mishandled protests in 2020, which caused damage that continues to plague our economy and reputation. But those setbacks only reveal how profoundly dedicated Portlanders are to our city. Challenges and mistakes arent reason to abandon the city rather, they lead people to work even harder. That commitment and grit have carried the city through crises and change. They can carry it through this moment as well. -The Oregonian/OregonLive Editorial Board There is no insurrection, Kotek told President Donald Trump in what aides described as a cordial 7-minute phone call in her car en route to Portland. Zane Sparling Gov. Tina Kotek on Saturday said she attempted to correct President Donald Trumps perception that Portland is war ravaged, telling him local and state leaders can manage our own local public safety needs without federal troops. There is no insurrection, Kotek told Trump in what aides described as a cordial 7-minute phone call in her car en route to Portland. Kotek discussed the call during a press conference Saturday afternoon at Gov. Tom McCall Waterfront Park, some seven hours after Trump announced on social media that he authorized federal troops to be sent into Portland. Kotek was circumspect as she described the conversation, emphasizing how she tried to persuade the president that Portland does not have a problem while seemingly avoiding any disparaging remarks that could antagonize the Trump administration. It is unclear whether her message made a difference. I tried to understand his reasoning and I told him we are taking care of it, that I have full faith and confidence in local law enforcement, she said. I said we disagree. And he said, Well, lets keep talking. Officials said Saturday they have not been briefed what a potential deployment would look like or when it would begin. I believe the president does not have the authority to deploy federal troops on state soil, Kotek said. She said shes working with Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield regarding a possible legal response. This is a very fluid situation, so Im not going to speak to future actions, she said. My conversation with President Trump was trying to understand the rationale and I believe it is based on information that is not accurate. Kotek said she tried to correct Trumps vision of the city, telling him that its a far cry from the poor, ravaged community that he has posted about on social media. We got this, she said she told the president. We are good. We are doing fine. It was at least the second time Kotek has spoken with Trump; the two spoke over the summer after Trump issued a disaster declaration for public assistance in southern Oregon. In Saturdays call, Kotek addressed him as president and Trump addressed her as governor. Earlier in the day, Kotek said she also spoke with U.S. Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, making the same points about Portland not needing federal troops. Kotek described her interactions with Trump and Noem against the backdrop of a sparkling fall afternoon downtown. Tourists stepped off the Portland Spirit. Runners and cyclists made their way along the waterfront. Families posed for photographs, Mount Hood in the distance. She cautioned Trump about relying on outdated media coverage or misinformation. Kotek said the state neither needs nor wants federal troops and said his inconceivable insistence that we need federal troops in Portland does not address the real concerns in our communities. We do not need or want federal troops in Oregon. Oregonian reporter Zane Sparling contributed to this report. President Donald Trump speaks after signing an executive order regarding TikTok in the Oval Office at the White House, Thursday, Sept. 25, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon) AP President Donald Trump announced he was authorizing the deployment of federal troops to Portland, sparking immediate condemnation from state and local officials who said the move was unwarranted. These are the 5 takeaways from the original reporting by The Oregonian/OregonLive. 1. Trump authorized troops for Portland via a surprise social media post Trump announced on Truth Social that he was directing federal troops to what he called a War ravaged Portland to protect ICE facilities from domestic terrorists. The declaration was made without any prior communication to local or state officials, who learned of the plan from social media. 2. Oregon leaders strongly and immediately rejected the need for federal troops Gov. Tina Kotek and Portland Mayor Keith Wilson responded within hours, stating that Portland is safe and calm and that the number of necessary troops is zero. Kotek said she spoke directly with Trump to oppose the deployment and confirmed the state would consider legal options to challenge it. 3. Significant confusion surrounds the details of the potential deployment It remains unclear what legal authority Trump would use for the deployment, when troops might arrive, or which branch of the military would be involved. The announcement reportedly caught many at the Pentagon by surprise, and the White House did not immediately provide clarifying details. 4. Oregons Democratic delegation framed the move as a political provocation Congressional Democrats from Oregon accused Trump of launching an authoritarian takeover in an attempt to incite conflict in a peaceful city for political gain. Multiple officials, including Sens. Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley, urged residents to remain calm and not take the bait. 5. Trumps justification for the deployment contrasts with on-the-ground reports While Trump cited ongoing sieges by antifa, the article clarifies that recent protests outside the South Portland ICE facility have involved no more than several dozen people. A top Portland police official has previously stated in court that federal officers were instigating and causing some of the ruckus during demonstrations. President Donald Trumps announcement that he would send federal troops to Portland drew crowds of protesters and onlookers to the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility Saturday night. But the overall tenor of the evening differed sharply from the presidents depiction of Portland as war-ravaged. As of 11 p.m., the only physically aggressive action came from federal agents, who emerged from the ICE building, arrested one person and deployed pepper-ball projectiles at others. The size of the crowd fluctuated, jumping to about 100 people before dropping to about 70, as at least one helicopter circled above. Handfuls of journalists and legal observers added to the mix, and nearby residents came out just to watch. Kevin Cox, 53, moved to a South Waterfront apartment two years ago and said he began to feel the effects of the anti-ICE protests when chemical munitions leaked into his unit. It was my wife especially, Cox said. She has asthma so she could definitely notice it more. Apartment managers encouraged residents to close their windows. Cox said he supported the protests and called Trumps declaration to send troops ridiculous. The scene around 7:45 p.m. outside the ICE facility in South Portland on Saturday, Sept. 27, 2025 after President Donald Trump announced he was sending in federal troops. Samantha Swindler/The Oregonian Tumbleweeds would not have seemed out of place around the ICE building in South Portland on Sunday morning. About 24 hours after news broke that President Donald Trump had ordered federal troops into Portland to protect immigration agents under siege by attack from Antifa, two protesters stood across the street from the ICE facility, one with a handmade sign. I think everybody is universally confused about the escalation that were getting from the federal government, and we all think that its kind of unbelievable, one of the demonstrators, Mackenzie Eikamp, told The Oregonian/OregonLive. The street outside the ICE building on Macadam Avenue has consistently seen a couple dozen protesters every day for the past two months, and the demonstrations typically have been loud but peaceful. Saturday night, after Trumps announcement, the number of protesters swelled to around 100. Eikamp scoffed at Trumps characterization of Portland as War ravaged and that ICE agents need National Guard troops to protect them. Dont believe what youre reading about Portland, she said, talking to the rest of the country. Portlands a great place. Theyre really just trying to swelter and squash persistence. ... I think Trump is just trying to cause civil unrest across the nation by villainizing Portland. But fears of coming civil unrest, at least in Portland now, are out there. Theres going to be trouble. Its just starting, said Terry Detz, a North Portland resident who came to South Portland for lunch at the Spaghetti Factory and to see what was going on. He added that ICE is just trying to do their job. The Oregonian/OregonLive last week reported that a Portland Police Bureau assistant chief had said in court testimony that federal officers were instigating clashes with protesters outside the ICE building. On Sunday morning, two South Waterfront residents, Colin Raaen and Lucia Estrada, also said they wanted to see what was happening around the ICE building. Estrada said she was not really worried about the protests. I mean, there havent been any issues. But Raaen said he did have concerns about whats coming now that Trump has ordered troops to the city. It seems like theres kind of like, a ramp up, of bringing in more authority, and then the protesters fight back against it, and it just kind of escalates, he said. Trump last week officially declared that Antifa, an amorphous designation for left-wing activists, was a domestic terrorist organization. In an open letter, Oregon political and business leaders tell President Trump, pictured here, that his view of Portland is wrong and destructive. AP Portland business and political leaders have released an open letter calling on President Trump to pull back his order to send troops into Portland. We firmly oppose any deployment of federal troops to our city and reject the negative characterization of our citizens, the letter begins. The letter, titled Portland doesnt need the Federal Troops and disseminated by Portland Metro Chamber, is signed by Gov. Tina Kotek, Mayor Keith Wilson, Multnomah County Chair Jessica Vega Pederson, Oregons Democratic members of Congress, Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield, among many others. It notes that in 2020, during the weeks of protests and riots in Portland that followed the police killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis, the first Trump administration sent in federal officers, which compounded the harm to Portland. Since then, Portland and Oregons leaders point out, the plywood has come down off shop windows, crime has fallen dramatically and downtown Portland has seen an influx of workers and tourists. The return of federal force would prove counterproductive, the letter argues, with the negative impact falling hardest on residents and small-business owners who have nothing to do with the small, largely peaceful but often loud protests outside the ICE building in South Portland. The crime data clearly illustrates that Portland has no need for federal intervention, the letter says. We have achieved the largest homicide reduction among major American cities, with a 51% decrease in the first half of 2025. Noting that the social media/recruitment site LinkedIn named Portland one of its Cities on the Rise in 2025, the letter adds: Federal military intervention would directly threaten this progress and undermine the very momentum thats attracting businesses activity and talent to our city. In Washington, D.C., restaurant sales plummeted 30% following federal troop deployment. Far from making people feel safe, an armed military presence dissuades customers and damages tourism and small businesses, which are vital to our economy. The local and state leaders call on President Trump to rescind his order to send troops to Portland and stop perpetuating outdated narratives about the city. -- The Oregonian War ravaged. That is how President Donald Trump described Portland as he announced his authorization to send federal troops to the City of Roses. Social media quickly latched on to that description. Portland? The place with therapy llamas at the airport? posted one user on Threads. Others chimed in as they were out enjoying farmers markets in the city under mostly sunny skies this afternoon. Portland Farmers Market was absolutely terrifying this morning. I was almost attacked by a (checks notes) bin of ornamental squash! another Threads user shared. Danny here, reporting live from war torn Portland. The smell of bbq permeates. The puppies are viciously kind. People are doing yard work. This is not okay. Pray for us. #pdx a Threads user reported as he shared clips of a bustling food cart pod and people doing yard work. One Threads user from Seattle joined in, saying The only thing scary about Portland is the way they pronounce Couch St. One user on Bluesky reported things are so bad that there isnt even a line at Salt & Straw! Over on X (formerly Twitter), users posted photos of bread purchased at farmers markets, people paddleboarding on the river, others eating lunch at Keller Fountain and more. One Reddit user wrote up a mock old-timely letter from War-Torn Portland. Dearest Mom, it starts, I hope this post finds you well. The Feds now control everything east of the Willamette. We have retreated into Goose Hollow, as the enemy has now taken Nob Hill. Supplies are running low. IPA is nowhere to be found - there is only cider left to drink, which nobody wants. We grabbed the last of the kale from what is left of the smoldering Burnside Zupans (Im ok with this). The Reddit thread asking users to share pics of war-ravaged Portland is up to 600 comments. When Jamie Dimon was wheeled into the operating room for emergency heart surgery, he didnt know whether he would make it outwhat he did know was that he had no big regrets in life. The 69-year-old JPMorgan CEO has become the face of American banking over his decades-long careerand was even at one point, Wall Streets savior. He is well known for navigating the bank nearly unscathed through the 2008 housing crash and for his deft actions in helping prop up the U.S. financial system. But around five years ago, life handed him a raw deal. After having already staved off throat cancer a decade prior, Dimon experienced an acute aortic dissection, or a tear in the inner layer of the bodys main artery, and had to rush to the hospital. The condition is rareonly about nine people per 100,000 experience it every year. It felt like someone stuck a knife in my heart, he said in an interview with former Wall Street Journal reporter Monica Langley, host of Office Hours: Business Edition. Yet as the longtime leader of a Wall Street icon, Dimon, faced with his possible demise, thought of his company first. Dimon called his wife, Judith Kent, before he went into surgery and asked her to call JPMorgans general counsel and the lead director on the board to tell them exactly what was wrong with him so they could act appropriately. Survival odds for the procedure were around fifty-fifty, and taking no chances, JPMorgan appointed co-CEOs in case he were to die. But Dimon, despite the odds, was by his own account seemingly calm and even thanked the nurses and doctors preparing to operate on himhe later bought them a new refrigerator and sanitizing machine as a thank-you gift. Life after surgery When he emerged from the procedure after more than eight hours, Dimon began living more deliberately, although he said he didnt feel any big regrets or an urge to shift his life path. I love what I do, and that didnt change, Dimon said. Despite the health scare, Dimon has not slowed by a long shot. He has a penchant for waking up before dawn and reading five newspapers before diving into work and as of last year was taking up squash. The same goes for his work life. In 2023, Dimon oversaw JPMorgans acquisition of First Republic Bank, which increased its deposits by $92 billion and gave it a significant stock boost. Last year, Dimon walked back his plans to step away from the CEO role in the next five years. He now has no definite timeline for stepping down, he told Langley, but said he may stay on as chairman after he leaves the top job. A township official in Montgomery County who also owns two day care centers is facing charges of sexually soliciting a minor and solicitation of child pornography. Nicholas Fountain, 38, who serves as the vice chair of the Skippack Township Board of Supervisors, was arrested on Thursday. According to 6ABC, Fountain is accused of soliciting sexual images from what he believed was a 14-year-old boy but was actually a detective with the Harford County Sheriffs Office in Maryland. His home was searched by investigators on Wednesday and officials seized some electronic devices. In addition to being a township supervisor, Fountain also owns Camp Magnolia in Skippack and Magnolia Childrens Academy in Gilbertsville. He has served on the board of supervisors since 2013. We were shocked to learn of the charges filed by the Harford County (Maryland) Sheriffs Office against Nick Fountain, a member of the Skippack Township Board of Supervisors, the board said in a statement, per 6ABC. We dont know many details right now and are seeking to learn more from law enforcement. The details we do have, however, are deeply disturbing. If true, we call on Mr. Fountain to resign from the Board of Supervisors. We will not have anything further to say until we know more. Fountain is still in custody and is waiting to be extradited to Maryland. The Iberian Lounge at the Hershey Hotel opened in 1968. File photo by Sean Simmers | ssimmers@pennlive.com A beloved lounge inside a well-known Derry Township hotel has been recognized as one of the best historic bars in the United States. The Iberian Lounge at The Hotel Hershey is featured on Historic Hotels of Americas list of the top 25 most historic bars, taverns and speakeasies. The Iberian dates back to 1968 and was designed to evoke a Spanish-inspired atmosphere, with oriental rugs, oak-paneled ceiling and columns, tinted walls, comfortable chairs and settees, and a charming fireplace. The Hotel Hershey opened in 1933 and was inducted into the inducted into Historic Hotels of America in 1991. The website mentions the Iberians mural depicting a Spanish waterfront scene, painted by the hotels original interior designer, Robert von Ezdorf. It also cites the Iberians signature Hershey Kisses chocolate martini as well as a selection of more than 100 whiskies from around the world. The Iberian is open 4 p.m. to midnight Monday-Friday and 2 p.m. to midnight Saturday-Sunday. By EDITH M. LEDERER, The Associated Press UNITED NATIONS (AP) Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates and Oman all nations in the thick of the unrest that has pervaded the Middle East confronted the crisis in the region at the annual U.N. gathering of world leaders, with Egypts top diplomat warning that the Mideast is at a point of implosion. All four countries on Saturday decried Israels ongoing pursuit of war in Gaza and the horrific impact on Palestinian civilians and they bemoaned the failure of the United Nations and the broader international community to achieve a ceasefire and end the bloodshed. The four ministers spoke a day after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu facing protesters, critics and growing global isolation over his Gaza policies told the General Assembly his country must finish the job against Hamas for its Oct. 7, 2023, surprise attack in southern Israel that killed about 1,200 people. Hamas also took 250 hostages. Israeli forces recently launched an offensive to take control of Gaza City. Heres a country-by-country look at those four leaders takes from the U.N. podium on the overall Mideast situation and Gaza in particular. Egypt Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty, whose country has been a key mediator in Gaza along with the United States and Qatar, sharply criticized the international community standing idly by as a spectator while international law is systematically violated in Gaza and elsewhere in the Middle East. Israels wanton, unjust war waged against defenseless civilians for a sin they did not commit is transpiring without accountability, and it has affected one country after another, he said. Abdelatty recalled former president Anwar Sadats historic visit to Israel in 1977, and Egypt becoming one of the first to anchor the pillar of peace in the region. But surveying the turmoiul in the Mideast today, he accused Israel of committing genocide in Gaza which it vehemently denies and blocking the Palestinians fron establishing an independent state. Abdelatty said Israel cant be secure unless other countries in the region are secure, and the region cannot see stability without an independent state of Palestine. In the region, he pointed to civil war in Sudan, the need for elections in divided Libya, resolving Yemens crisis between the internationally recognized government and Houthi rebels who control the capital and most of the north, and ending repeated Israeli violations of Lebanese and Syrian territory. Saudi Arabia Saudi Arabias foreign minister, Prince Faisal bin Farhan, whose country hosts Russia-Ukraine-U.S. peace talks, said the suffering of Palestinians and unprecedented humanitarian crisis in Gaza make it imperative for the international community to end the war in Gaza and achieve peace through a two-state solution. Minister for Foreign Affairs of Saudi Arabia Prince Faisal bin Farhan addresses the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly, Saturday, Sept. 27, 2025, at U.N. headquarters. (AP Photo/Pamela Smith) AP A two-state solution to the nearly 80-year Israeli-Palestinian conflict is the only path that would guarantee the security of all countries in the region, he said. The failure of the international community to take firm actions to end the Israeli aggression and violation will only cause further instability and insecurity regionally and globally and will have grave consequences and will escalate war crimes and acts of genocide. Farhan said Saudi Arabia, along with Norway and the European Union, launched an international coalition to implement the two-state solution, and it co-sponsored Mondays high-level meeting with France that saw at least 10 countries officially recognize the state of Palestine, bringing the total to near 160 recognitions. Such recognition is an important step towards achieving the two-state solution and bolstering the path towards a just and lasting peace, he said. Farhan condemned Israels recent attack on Qatar. He also called for international measures to stop Israels actions, and to deter it from such criminal behavior that threatens regional security and stability. Oman Omani Foreign Minister Badr bin Hamad al-Busaidi, whose country has mediated U.S.-Iran talks, called on the international community to apply effective pressure to bring Israel to the negotiating table and to adopt measures limiting its ability to continue its killings, destruction, occupation and policies of starvation and blockade against the Palestinian people. He condemned Israeli aggression against Iran, Yemen, Syria and Lebanon and called for sanctions against Israel in response to its violation of international law and unlawful encroachment on the sovereignty of states. We call for a global peaceful campaign to lift the blockade and undo the injustice imposed on the Palestinian people and to secure their freedom through the establishment of an independent and sovereign Palestinian state, al-Busaidi said. United Arab Emirates Calling it a pivotal moment in a world engulfed in turmoil and conflict, the United Arab Emirates deputy foreign minister Lana Nusseibeh said there is no justification for Hamas taking hostages or for Israel targeting tens of thousands of civilians or besieging them or starving them and forcibly displacing them. Minister for Foreign Affairs of the United Arab Emirates Lana Nusseibeh addresses the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly, Saturday, Sept. 27, 2025, at U.N. headquarters. (AP Photo/Pamela Smith) AP Israels unacceptable, expansionist ambitions, including the threat of annexing the West Bank, are also inexcusable, she said. Nusseibeh urged all countries to recognize the state of Palestine as an investment in a better future for the region. The UAE has tried to bridge divides elsewhere in the conflict-torn world, she said, pointing to its role in the exchange of thousands of prisoners between Russia and Ukraine, hosting peace talks between Armenia and Azerbaijan, and helping to de-escalate tensions in south Asia and beyond. Our aim is not simply to manage conflicts, but to resolve them sustainably, Nusseibeh told the assembly. The urgent need for this approach is clear around the world, whether in the Gaza Strip, Ukraine, Sudan, Yemen, Libya or the Sahel. Many crises have been exacerbated by extremist ideologies, hate speech and incitement, which is why the UAE is promoting an agenda of tolerance, peace and security, she said. The UAE is also the largest donor of aid to Gaza, she said. Edith M. Lederer has been covering international affairs for The Associated Press for more than a half century. By DEREK GATOPOULOS, ILLIA NOVIKOV and ELISE MORTON, The Associated Press KYIV, Ukraine (AP) Russia unleashed a barrage of drones and missiles on Ukraine overnight into Sunday, killing at least four people, with Kyiv suffering the heaviest assault. This is the first major bombardment since an air attack on Ukraines capital left at least 21 people dead last month. Kyiv bears the brunt of the attack Tymur Tkachenko, head of the Kyiv City Administration, confirmed Sundays casualties via Telegram and said that 10 others were wounded in the attack, which targeted civilian areas across the city. A 12-year-old girl was among the dead. Thick black smoke could be seen rising from a blast near the city center. The Russians have restarted the child death counter, Tkachenko wrote on Telegram. Russia fired a total of 595 exploding drones and decoys and 48 missiles, Ukraines air force said Sunday. Of those, air defenses shot down or jammed 566 drones and 45 missiles. Besides Kyiv, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that the bombardment targeted the regions of Zaporizhzhia, Khmelnytskyi, Sumy, Mykolaiv, Chernihiv, and Odesa. Zelenskyy wrote on X that at least 40 people were wounded across the country. Later, Ukraines Interior Ministry stated the number of the wounded rose to 70, with more than 100 civilian objects damaged. Zaporizhzhias regional head, Ivan Fedorov, said that three children were among the 27 wounded in the region, adding that more than two dozen buildings were damaged in the capital, which bears the same name. This vile attack came virtually (at) the close of U.N. General Assembly week, and this is exactly how Russia declares its true position. Moscow wants to keep fighting and killing, and it deserves the toughest pressure from the world, Zelenskyy wrote. Speaking at the U.N. General Assembly, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov told world leaders on Saturday that his nation doesnt intend to attack Europe, but will mount a decisive response to any aggression. Residents shaken The strikes that began overnight and continued after dawn on Sunday also targeted residential buildings, civilian infrastructure, a medical facility and a kindergarten, according to Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko, who also said that damage was reported at more than 20 locations across the capital. At Kyivs central train station, passengers arrived to the crackle of anti-aircraft gunfire and the low buzz of attack drones. Mostly women, they waited quietly in a platform underpass until the air raid alert ended. Parents checked the news on their phones while children played online games. The sky has turned black again, said one woman at the station, who gave only her first name, Erika. Its happening a lot. Ilona Kovalenko, a 38-year-old resident of a five-story building struck in Kyivs Solomianskyi district, told The Associated Press that she woke up because of the explosion, which shattered windows. A neighbor kept knocking on our door. She was completely covered in blood and shouting, help, save my daughter, said Kovalenko, who fled the building with her grandmother after the strike. Oleksandra, the neighbors daughter, was the 12-year-old killed in the attack. Sadly, she died on the spot, Kovalenko said. We are in shock, to be honest. Another multistory residential building was heavily damaged by the attack. Emergency services personnel used power saws to clear the debris. Piles of glass littered nearby sidewalks as building residents, some looking shaken, sat on benches. There are no warehouses or plants here. We were sure that nothing would happen, but it hit us here, Volodymyr, a retired Kyiv resident who only gave his first name, told the AP at the site of a missile strike. The Kremlin has repeatedly claimed that Russias military only strikes military targets. Russian officials didnt immediately comment on the latest attacks. For some Kyiv residents, this wasnt the first time they had come under Russian attack. Mark Sergeev, a pastor who had already fled Russia-occupied Melitopol, found himself under attack again in Kyiv. He was sleeping on the second floor with his wife when the blast struck, with his children on the floor above. There was a blast, and a wardrobe fell on me and I was covered with glass. My wife was shouting: Mark, where are the kids? I felt like this was like a death sentence, Sergeev said. He called out to his older son Toper, who responded that he was alive, before pulling his younger child from the debris. The pastor, who previously testified before U.S. Congress about Christian persecution in Russian-occupied territories, said that the attack brought back painful memories. I am a pastor from Melitopol. We had a large Protestant church and a house that I built with my own hands, and the Russian FSB took it away and nationalized it, he said, describing how Russian forces had forced his family to lie on the ground at gunpoint in 2022. And so, we lost our second home again, Sergeev said. Polish military responses triggered The assault also triggered military responses in neighboring Poland, where fighter jets were deployed early Sunday as Russia struck targets in western Ukraine, according to the Polish armed forces. Polish military officials characterized these defensive measures as preventative. Rescuers work at the site of an apartment buildings damaged during a Russian attack in Kyiv, Ukraine, Sunday, Sept. 28, 2025. (AP Photo/Efrem Lukatsky) AP International concerns have mounted recently that the fighting could spread beyond Ukraines borders as European countries rebuked Russia for what they said were provocations. The incidents have included Russian drones landing on Polish soil and Russian fighter aircraft entering Estonian airspace. Russia denied that its planes entered Estonian airspace and said that none of its drones targeted Poland. The latest bombardment follows Zelenskyys announcement Saturday of what he called a mega deal for weapons purchases from the United States. The $90 billion package includes both the major arms agreement and a separate drone deal for Ukrainian-made drones that the U.S. will purchase directly. Meanwhile, Russias Defense Ministry said that its air defenses shot down 41 Ukrainian drones overnight into Sunday. Elise Morton reported from London. Follow APs coverage of the war in Ukraine at https://apnews.com/hub/russia-ukraine President Donald Trump gestures as he arrives at the White House, Friday, Sept. 26, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson) AP By CHRIS MEGERIAN, The Associated Press WASHINGTON (AP) President Donald Trump will speak at a hastily called meeting of top military leaders on Tuesday, according to a White House official. Hundreds of generals and admirals senior commanders of the one-star rank or higher and their top advisers have been summoned by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth from all over the world to the Marine Corps base in Quantico, Virginia, with little notice. The White House official was not authorized to discuss the presidents plans before a public announcement about his attendance and spoke on condition of anonymity. Trump told NBC News in an interview Sunday that they would be talking about how well were doing militarily, talking about being in great shape, talking about a lot of good, positive things. News about the meeting broke Thursday, and no reason was initially provided for the unusual gathering. Trump didnt seem to know about it when first asked by reporters during an Oval Office appearance. Ill be there if they want me, but why is it such a big deal? Trump said. The official said the presidents participation was not part of the original plan for the meeting but that he decided that he wanted to go. Trumps participation in the meeting raises the likelihood of a politicized event in front of a nonpartisan audience of military leaders. For example, he delivered campaign-style remarks to uniformed personnel at Fort Bragg in North Carolina in June, attacking his Democratic predecessor, Joe Biden. The Republican president is also expanding his use of the military in American cities, arguing that its necessary to fight crime in places where Democratic leaders are failing to ensure public safety. The National Guard continues to patrol in the District of Columbia, and a smaller deployment is expected in Memphis, Tennessee. On Saturday, Trump said he would also send troops to Portland, Oregon, to protect against domestic terrorists. Over the objections of local and state officials, Trump previously sent the National Guard and active-duty Marines to Los Angeles, where there were protests against immigration raids. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth reviews troops during the POW/MIA National Recognition Day Ceremony at the Pentagon, Friday, Sept. 19, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson) AP The Pentagons top spokesman has previously confirmed that Hegseth will be addressing his senior military leaders early next week. Across the military, there are 800 generals and admirals of all ranks. Many command thousands of service members and are stationed across the world in more than a dozen countries and time zones. The Washington Post first reported on Trumps plans to attend the upcoming meeting. Update: It was an inferno: Neighbor describes Lebanon house fire that killed 4 Four people, including three children, were killed in a house fire in Lebanon on Sunday. Mayor Sherry Capello said in a media update late Sunday afternoon that the four ages 73, 17, 4, and 1 were among 10 people in the home on the 800 block of Church Street when the fire broke. Several of them were guests visiting for a birthday celebration, she said. In addition to those who died, one remains in critical condition, and one is in stable condition. The remaining four occupants escaped with minor injuries, she said. No names have been released. The Lebanon Fire Department was dispatched at 8:43 a.m. and arrived on scene within two minutes. They found the first and second floors of the residence were fully engulfed, with flames visible from the windows, she said. Firefighters were immediately advised that people were trapped inside the building. A second alarm was immediately requested, and additional apparatus and volunteers responded from neighboring companies. Fire crews initially worked to knock down the flames, which allowed them to find and rescue three people, who were transported to WellSpan/Good Samaritan Hospital. Conditions within the structure then deteriorated, forcing crews to withdraw and continue suppression efforts from the exterior. Once conditions stabilized, firefighters re-entered the building and recovered two additional victims. The fire originated from an electrical outlet in the first-floor living room and has been ruled accidental in nature, she said. In her note, Capello thanked the Lebanon Fire Department for its swift and professional response, as well as the Lebanon City Police, Lebanon City Fire Police, and Lebanon City Public Safety Inspectors for their assistance. Others who she cited as arriving to help fight the fire included: Neversink Fire Co. South Lebanon Fire Dept. Neptune Fire Co. (Richland) Annville-Cleona Fire Dept. Myerstown (Keystone Hook & Ladder) Glenn Lebanon Fire Co. Community Fire Co. of Cornwall Bellegrove Fire Co. (Rehab) Salvation Army (Rehab) First Aid & Safety Patrol Lebanon City Fire Police Fire Police from Neversink & North Lebanon Lebanon County DES The City of Lebanon is fortunate to have such a courageous and dedicated community of first responders-neighbors who come together without hesitation in moments of greatest need to protect lives and property, she said. By Geraldine Gibbons, The Times-Tribune, Scranton, Pa. An Archbald, Lackawanna County, resident was surprised Friday morning when, during a morning walk, he spotted what appeared to be a crocodile on Pine Street, also appearing to be taking a morning constitutional. The man contacted police and officers soon arrived to assess the situation and make sure everyone was safe. According to police chief Timothy Trently, officers called upon a Department of Public Works staffer familiar with reptiles. Soon, the crocodiles snout was secure and he was on his way back to the police station. It was then police got a phone call indicating that a man thought the crocodile belonged to his neighbor, and indeed it did. The reptile was returned to its owner and the boroughs code enforcement officer is ensuring that the man is in compliance with borough ordinances. Trently said the owner, who lived near the intersection of Pine and Wayne streets, recently moved to the area. The owner believes the crocodile, who was in a pond near the house, was frightened by a bear and thats why he took to the streets. Trently pointed out that a while back, officers found a deceased land shark in the middle of the street, noting that its not the first time an unusual creature showed up in the borough. Kilmar Abrego Garcia speaks during a rally and prayer vigil for him before he enters a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement field office on Aug. 25, 2025, in Baltimore. (Andrew Harnik/Getty Images/TNS) TNS By Maggie Trovato, Baltimore Sun BALTIMORE Kilmar Abrego Garcia has been transferred to a detention center in Central Pennsylvania while he awaits immigration proceedings, according to federal court documents filed by his attorneys Friday. In a status update, Abrego Garcias defense said it was notified Friday that its client was transferred to Moshannon Valley Processing Center in Philipsburg, earlier that morning. The Salvadoran man who lived in Maryland for more than a decade before he was mistakenly deported to El Salvador earlier this year was previously detained at the Farmville Detention Center in Virginia. Abrego Garcias attorneys, who are based in Nashville, Tennessee, and New York, said in the court filing that his detainment in Virginia placed substantial burdens on their ability to meet with him and prepare for trial. His attorneys said a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement official told them the transfer to the Pennsylvania facility would allow greater access, but the attorneys said it was not yet clear if that is true. Travel to Moshannon is far more difficult for the members of the defense team based in Nashville, and is not appreciably easier for the New York-based members of the defense team, compared to Farmville, the court filing said. The Department of Homeland Security did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the transfer. Abrego Garcias defense team also expressed concern about the Pennsylvania detention center, citing reports of assaults, inadequate medical care, insufficient food and a detainee who died by suicide in August. According to an ICE news release, 32-year-old Chinese citizen Chaofeng Ge was pronounced dead Aug. 5 after staff found him hanging and unresponsive in the shower room of his detention pod. In their court filing, the attorneys said they would update the court once there is more visibility into their clients access to counsel at Moshannon Valley Processing Center. Earlier this month, ICE attorneys said they intended to send Abrego Garcia to Eswatini in southern Africa. The letter followed Abrego Garcia expressing fear of being deported to Uganda, where the White House said he would be sent after he was detained in August at Baltimores ICE office. A 30-year-old El Salvador native and father of three from Prince Georges County, Abrego Garcia came to the U.S. illegally when he was 16. He has been accused by the federal government of human trafficking and gang membership. He was first detained in a Salvadoran mega-prison for terrorists and later in other jails following the mistaken deportation. He was returned to the U.S. in June and maintains his innocence, denying any gang affiliation. Asher Rogers holds an image of Jimmy Kimmel outside El Capitan Entertainment Centre, where the late-night show "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" is staged on Thursday, Sept. 18, 2025, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Jae C. Hong) AP (The Conversation is an independent and nonprofit source of news, analysis and commentary from academic experts.) Author: Ray Brescia, Albany Law School Imagine a protest outside the funeral of a popular political leader, with some of the protesters celebrating the death and holding signs that say things like God Hates the USA/Thank God for 9/11, America is Doomed and Dont Pray for the USA. No matter the political leanings of that leader, most Americans would probably abhor such a protest and those signs. What would tolerate such activities, no matter how distasteful? The First Amendment. The situation described above is taken from an actual protest, though it did not involve the funeral of a political figure. Instead, members of the Westboro Baptist Church protested outside the funeral of Marine Lance Cpl. Matthew Snyder, a U.S. service member killed in Iraq. Through demonstrations like this, members of this group were conveying their belief that the U.S. is overly tolerant of those they perceive as sinners, especially people from the LGBTQ community, and that the death of U.S. soldiers should be recognized as divine retribution for such sinfulness. Snyders family sued for intentional infliction of emotional distress, among other claims. A jury issued a US$5 million jury award in favor of the family of the deceased service member. But in a nearly unanimous decision issued in 2011, the U.S. Supreme Court found that the First Amendment insulated the protesters from such a judgment. This holding is particularly instructive today. The Trump administration has vowed to crack down on what it calls hate speech. It has labeled antifa, a loosely organized anti-fascist group, a terrorist organization. And it has sought to punish figures such as TV host Jimmy Kimmel for statements perceived critical of conservative activists. What the First Amendment makes clear is that it does not just protect the rights of speakers who say things with which Americans agree. Or, as the Supreme Court said in a separate decision it issued one year after the case involving the funeral protesters: The Nation well knows that one of the costs of the First Amendment is that it protects the speech we detest as well as the speech we embrace. But free speech is not absolute. As a legal scholar who has studied political movements, free speech and privacy, I realize the government can regulate speech through what are known as reasonable time, place, and manner restrictions. These limits cannot depend upon the content of the speech or expressive conduct in which a speaker is engaged, however. For example, the government can ban campfires in an area prone to wildfires. But if it banned the burning of the U.S. flag only as a form of political protest, that would be an unconstitutional restriction on speech. A woman holds a sign at a protest on Sept. 18, 2025, in Burbank, Calif., in response to the suspension of Jimmy Kimmels late-night show. AP Photo/Jae C. Hong AP Photo/Jae C. Hong Protected and unprotected speech There are certain categories of speech that are not entitled to First Amendment protection. They include incitement to violence, obscenity, defamation and what are considered true threats. When, for example, someone posts threats on social media with reckless disregard for whether they will instill legitimate fear in their target, such posts are not a protected form of speech. Similarly, burning a cross on someones property as a means of striking terror in them, such that they fear bodily harm, also represents this kind of true threat. There are also violations of the law that are sometimes prosecuted as hate crimes, criminal acts driven by some discriminatory motive. In these cases, its generally not the perpetrators beliefs that are punished but the fact that they act on them and engage in some other form of criminal conduct, as when someone physically assaults their victim based on that victims race or religion. Such motives can increase the punishment people receive for the underlying criminal conduct. Speech that enjoys the strongest free-speech protections is that which is critical of government policies and leaders. As the Supreme Court said in 1966, There is practically universal agreement that a major purpose of (the First) Amendment was to protect the free discussion of governmental affairs. As the late Justice Antonin Scalia would explain in 2003, The right to criticize the government is at the heart of what the First Amendment is meant to protect. Restrictions on government action The First Amendment prevents the government from taking direct action to curtail speech by, for example, trying to prevent the publication of material critical of it. Americans witnessed this in the Pentagon Papers case, where the Supreme Court ruled that the government could not prevent newspapers from publishing a leaked and politically damaging study on U.S. military involvement in Vietnam. But it also applies when the government acts in indirect ways, such as threatening to investigate a media company or cutting funding for a university based on politically disfavored action or inaction. In 2024 the Supreme Court ruled unanimously that the state of New Yorks efforts to punish companies that did business with the National Rifle Association because of the organizations political positions violated the groups First Amendment rights. Similarly, in recent months, courts have ruled on First Amendment grounds against Trump administration efforts to punish law firms or to withhold funds from Harvard University. And just last week, a federal court in Florida threw out a lawsuit filed by President Trump against The New York Times seeking $15 billion for alleged harm to the presidents investments and reputation. Nevertheless, some people fear government retribution for criticizing the administration. And some, like the TV network ABC, have engaged in speech-restricting action on their own, such as taking Kimmel temporarily off the air for his comments critical of conservative activists in the wake of Charlie Kirks killing. Before Kimmels suspension, Federal Communications Commission Chairman Brendan Carr described his negotiations with ABCs parent company, Disney, to take action against him. We could do this the easy way or the hard way, Carr said. And Trump said that some media companies might lose their license for criticizing the president. It is encouraging that, in the face of these threats, ABC has reversed course and agreed to put Kimmel back on the air. President Trump speaks to reporters aboard Air Force One after attending a memorial service for conservative activist Charlie Kirk in Glendale, Ariz., on Sept. 21, 2025. AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson The First Amendment protects speech across the political spectrum, even speech Americans do not like. Both liberal comedian Jon Stewart and conservative commentator Tucker Carlson have recently agreed on this. As Carlson said recently, If they can tell you what to say, theyre telling you what to think. There is nothing they cant do to you because they dont consider you human. Just last year in the NRA case referenced above, the Supreme Court clearly stated that even indirect government efforts to curtail protected speech are indeed unconstitutional. In light of that ruling, efforts to limit criticism of the administration, any administration, should give all Americans, regardless of their political views, great pause. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article here: https://theconversation.com/how-the-first-amendment-protects-americans-speech-and-how-it-does-not-265655. We came across a bullish thesis on Molson Coors Beverage Company on Scalper's Lounges Substack by scalpavelli. In this article, we will summarize the bulls thesis on TAP. Molson Coors Beverage Company's share was trading at $46.86 as of September 17th. TAPs trailing and forward P/E were 9.24 and 8.04 respectively according to Yahoo Finance. Top 5 Beer Brands in the World Pixabay/Public Domain Molson Coors (TAP) recently traded near $47.50, a level identified as a strategic entry point by analysts, prompting interest from investors seeking upside through both equity and options strategies, with potential gains of roughly 13.7% over four months, including dividends. The company trades at an expected near-term GAAP earnings yield of 11%, rising above 13% when adding back $200 million of goodwill amortization. Combined with a 4% dividend, this provides ample cash flow for debt reduction, reinvestment, and share repurchases. TAP successfully reduced leverage to a 2.5x EBITDA target in 2024, and management has begun aggressive buybacks while reaffirming its commitment to steadily increasing the dividend. Low operating leverage supports cash flow stability, insulating the company from downside scenarios, such as a $1 billion revenue shortfall, effectively offset by the goodwill adjustment. The brand portfolioincluding Coors, Miller Lite, Fosters, Peroni, Blue Moon, Leinenkugels, and Reddsis strong, complemented by strategic investments in Fever tree and collaborations on hard seltzers, demonstrating growth potential in both traditional and emerging beverage segments. Potential headwinds include leverage concerns and declining college demographics affecting the economy beer segment, but the current valuation presents an attractive entry point. Near-term earnings releases are likely to stabilize market expectations, highlighting the resilience of underlying cash flows. Overall, TAP represents a stable, cash-generative business with strong brand equity, ongoing strategic initiatives, and the potential for debt reduction and rerating, offering a balanced risk/reward profile for investors. Previously we covered a bullish thesis on Molson Coors Beverage Company (TAP) by Tyler Moody in September 2024, which highlighted the companys stable mid-cap status, conservative financing, modest undervaluation, fair dividend yield, and defensive positioning. The company's stock price has depreciated approximately by 15% since our coverage. The thesis still stands as TAP continues to generate steady cash flow. Scalpavelli shares a similar bullish view but emphasizes strategic entry points, optionality through equity and options, and near-term upside from debt reduction and brand initiatives. A woman holds a sign at a protest on Sept. 18, 2025, in Burbank, Calif., in response to the suspension of Jimmy Kimmels late-night show. AP Photo/Jae C. Hong AP Photo/Jae C. Hong By Carl Hisiro Looking back at his campaign promises last year, Trump said he would put an end to what he said was a cancel culture that allegedly attacked conservative values and to the weaponization of government that he claimed was responsible for the many prosecutions brought against him at the time. At his second inauguration speech in January, Trump promised to bring back free speech and stop all government censorship. Shortly thereafter, Trump signed anExecutive Order that was directed to protecting the right to free speech without government interference. Now nine months into his presidency, we see that these promises were just a made-up farce as Trump continues his almost daily assault on our First Amendment rights. The first manifestations of this assault began when Trump targeted for retribution law firms that handled cases against him after his first term ended; colleges that had diversity, equity and inclusion programs or taught classes that he did not like; and news agencies or reporters that Trump felt were too harsh on him or otherwise refused to follow his dictates, such as the Associated Presss refusal to follow Trumps renaming of the Gulf of Mexico as the Gulf of America. More recently this continuing assault on our First Amendment freedom of expression rights has manifested itself in even uglier ways (if that is possible) when Trump and his allies (billionaire friends and federal agencies under his control) directly or indirectly aided in the removal of Stephen Colbert and Jimmy Kimmel, comedic critics of the president, from their respective late night comedy television shows. Then there is the issue of Trump openly directing the U.S. Justice Department to investigate and prosecute his political enemies. Turning first to the Colbert and Kimmel cancellations (which fortunately for Kimmel was reversed by ABCs parent company, the Disney Company, less than a week later), Trump celebrated the cancellations of both shows. He publicly commented on the Kimmel situation that the Federal Communications Commission should go further and revoke the broadcast licenses of media companies when, They give me only bad publicity or press. In Kimmels case, an uproar occurred on the far right after Kimmel made certain comments on his program about Charlie Kirk after his assassination. In support of Trumps public statements, Brendan Carr, chairman of the FCC, put pressure on ABC to fire Kimmel saying, We can do this the easy way or the hard way. Within hours of making this comment, ABC indefinitely suspended the Jimmy Kimmel Live! show. Under our Constitution and well-established U.S. Supreme Court precedent, the First Amendments freedom of speech clause constrains government regulation of private speech except in very limited circumstances. Even stalwart Republican Senators Ted Cruz and Rand Paul publicly expressed grave concerns about Trumps statements and actions in regard to Kimmels freedom of expression. It is readily apparent that the only freedom of speech Trump intended to protect is when nice things are said about him. Even more disturbing than the Kimmel fiasco, was Trumps recent demand on Attorney Gen. Pam Bondi to move quickly to prosecute figures he considers his enemies, the latest blow to the Justice Departments tradition of independence, as reported in The New York Times. Writing to Pam on his social media site, Trump stated, We cant delay any longer, its killing our reputation and credibility. Trump then went on to recommend actions be taken against former FBI Director James Comey, U.S. Sen, Adam Schiff, and New York Attorney General Leticia James. Trump concluded in his post. [T]heyre all guilty as hell, but nothing is going to be done, while presenting no evidence of any actual wrongdoing other than being old adversaries of Trump. Ten years ago, such an action would have been done in secret to avoid a possible impeachable offense. Today, Trump can make these incredible demands in public without any fear of reprisal by a subservient Congress controlled by knee-bending Republicans who do not dare upset their autocratic leader. As noted earlier, Trump often complained about the weaponization of government against him, ignoring the fact that the cases against him that went to a jury trial were all successful, meaning they had merit. And perhaps the most serious charges against Trump relating to his actions on January 6, 2021, when he spurred on his supporters before they ransacked the Capitol, were never fully litigated because the Supreme Court, ignoring well-established precedent that no one is above the law, gave Trump immunity from criminal prosecution for actions taken as president. Now, Trump is engaged in his own weaponization of the government by encouraging his Justice Department to take legal action against his perceived political enemies even though, unlike the cases against him, they have not committed any violations of law. It is up to the American public to demand a stop to these lawless actions unless our own First Amendment rights be abridged at some future date. Carl Hisiro is a retired lawyer who lives in Susquehanna Township. This story first appeared in The Investigator, a weekly newsletter by Spotlight PA featuring the best investigative and accountability journalism from across Pennsylvania. Sign up for free here. HARRISBURG The stately governors residence along the banks of the Susquehanna River in Harrisburg is insured under two plans, but Shapiro administration officials will not say how much in repairs the policies are expected to cover following the brazen arson attack earlier this year. Those repairs have so far cost just over $6 million in taxpayer dollars. The Shapiro administration has shielded information about nearly a quarter of those expenses including what the money was spent on, and in some instances, even who was paid for work there saying it could endanger the safety of people, buildings, or other infrastructure. The state Department of General Services (DGS) is overseeing the restoration work at the residence, and agency spokesperson L. Paul Vezzetti said in an email that significant progress has been made. Still, the agency and other state officials have steadfastly refused to say how much they expect the restoration and repairs to cost, noting the work is not finalized. The residence, Vezzetti said, is covered by two insurance plans. He would not say if insurance has covered anything already or how much the agency expects will be covered when all is said and done. Like other state-owned property, the 29,000-square-foot mansion is covered under the State Insurance Fund. The fund is a self-insurance policy state agencies pay into it annually based on the extent of their covered assets and it provides coverage for losses caused by fire, flood, vandalism, and other perils, according to the DGS website. The fund covers losses up to $1 million, and claims must be filed within one year of the incident. There are no deductibles under the State Insurance Fund, with one exception in instances of theft, where there is a $5,000 deductible. For losses exceeding $1 million, another plan, this one managed by a private insurer, kicks in. The insurer, FM Global, provides coverage of up to $1 billion per incident, Vezzetti said. It has a $1 million deductible, which is payable from the State Insurance Fund, per DGS. The state pays for repairs up front, then seeks reimbursement through the applicable policy, officials said. However, the DGS website notes that claims paid from either policy are made under the premise of repair, replace or restore to like-condition at the time of the loss. Improvements or betterments are not covered, it says. Its unclear if security upgrades planned for the residence would be considered reimbursable expenses. There is another pot of money that the administration can use for repairs not covered by insurance. But for the time being, its shrouded in mystery. Following the arson, private donors contributed money to a fund managed by a Harrisburg-area nonprofit, Team Pennsylvania (also known as Team PA), which does not make the identity of its donors public. That fund raises money for the governors residence. Team PA and the administration have declined for months to say who contributed money for repairs, and what that money will pay for. A Shapiro spokesperson has said state officials intend to release a list of donors to the fund in the future, though it is unclear when or how detailed the disclosure will be. BEFORE YOU GO If you learned something from this article, pay it forward and contribute to Spotlight PA at spotlightpa.org/donate. Spotlight PA is funded by foundations and readers like you who are committed to accountability journalism that gets results. DUBLIN -- The Pittsburgh Steelers have ruled out five players against the Minnesota Vikings. Among them are cornerback Joey Porter Jr. and running back Jaylen Warren, two critical pieces to the team. Porter is battling a hamstring injury and has not played since suffering the injury against the New York Jets in Week 1. Originally described as just tightness, it is clear that Porter suffered a real injury and the team does not want him to suffer a setback, thus they will give him the bye week. Warren suffered a knee injury and was expected to play, but will instead sit out and try to come back after the bye week. He was in a knee brace earlier this week, and was limited throughout the week with the issue. Warren warmed up, but the team held him back. Outside linebacker Alex Highsmith is out with a high ankle sprain and never travelled to Ireland in the first place. He will miss his second straight game. Nick Herbig will start in his place after getting eight pressures and one interception. Lastly, the Steelers have made guard Andrus Peat and defensive lineman Esezi Otomewo inactive for the fourth straight game. They have yet to play in a game this year. A dense fog advisory covers much of central Pennsylvania Sunday morning, with visibility significantly reduced in many areas before clearing to a warm, sunny day with temperatures reaching the upper 70s to mid-80s. The National Weather Service has issued a dense fog advisory until 9 a.m. for multiple counties, with widespread fog formations reducing visibility to a quarter mile or less in some locations. Meteorologists expect the fog to burn off by mid-morning, giving way to mostly sunny skies and unseasonably warm temperatures that are 10 to 20 degrees above the historical average for late September. 400 AM Sunday September 28th, 2025: A wide range of conditions are expected through mid morning. Areas of dense fog will linger until mid morning. Be alert for a wide range of conditions. After the fog burns off, a sunny and warm day is in store for the area. pic.twitter.com/pLmA5JckDB NWS State College (@NWSStateCollege) September 28, 2025 Residents should exercise caution during the morning commute, as dense fog may create hazardous driving conditions. The fog is expected to dissipate as high pressure builds in from the Great Lakes, bringing clear skies and light winds. Temperatures will quickly warm, with highs ranging from 75 to 85 degrees across the region. The warm weather pattern is expected to continue into Monday and Tuesday, with similar temperatures and abundant sunshine. A significant weather change is anticipated midweek, as a cold front moves in from eastern Canada, potentially bringing frost to the northern tier of the region by Wednesday night. Daytime temperatures are forecast to drop 5 to 10 degrees on Wednesday and Thursday. The extended outlook suggests an extended dry spell continuing into early October, with high pressure maintaining clear conditions and minimal precipitation chances. Residents in northern areas should be prepared for potential frost, with overnight temperatures expected to dip into the 30s and 40s later in the week. Current weather radar Generative AI was used to produce an initial draft of this story, which was reviewed and edited by PennLive.com staff. Key Points MP Materials is a U.S.-based producer of rare-earth metals. It astutely positioned itself for the global shifts that are taking shape today. However, investors have priced in a lot of good news very quickly. 10 stocks we like better than MP Materials One of the many big geopolitical stories in the world today is the changing tariff regime in the United States. Key trading partner China is retaliating in a way that only China can, by limiting access to rare-earth metals, which are vital in the technology sector. And that has led to a huge boon for MP Materials (NYSE: MP), which produces rare-earth metals in the United States. Does this make MP Materials a smart buy? Image source: Getty Images. What's going on in the tariff world? The new administration in Washington D.C. is raising tariffs on foreign countries that export products to the U.S. market. Given that U.S. consumers represent a valuable customer group, the tariffs are a very big deal. Impacted countries are attempting to negotiate and/or retaliate in an effort to limit the impact that tariff changes will have on their economies. China is one of the largest exporters to the United States and negotiations have been tense. China's wild card is the fact that it is the world's largest producer of rare earth metals. These metals are used in electronics, including in highly sensitive high-tech gear that might be used for defense purposes. In the face of U.S. tariffs, China has been more than willing to limit access to rare-earth metals. And that is potentially a large problem for the United States. This is where MP Materials comes in, since it is a U.S.-based supplier of rare earth metals. It didn't just appear overnight, the company went public a few years ago. The whole idea of the business is to produce rare earth metals from within a politically and economically stable country, giving technology-driven customers what might be seen as a more reliable supply option for these vital materials. In hindsight, MP Materials' timing could hardly have been any better. There have been big investments in MP Materials The importance of MP Materials is highlighted by two big events. First, on July 10, the U.S. government made a $400 million investment in the business, which included convertible securities. Second, and just five days later, Apple announced a $500 million partnership with MP Materials around rare-earth metals. Not surprisingly, MP Materials' stock price rose dramatically on the news. That, in turn, allowed MP Materials to sell $650 million worth of stock at attractive prices for the company. Demand for the shares was so high that the sale was upsized from $500 million, showing that investor appetite for MP Materials' story is large. And why not? The story is quite compelling. Poker Player's First Tournament Win Yields a WSOP Bracelet & 226,850 Maxime Taldir Live Reporter Copy link What could be better than winning a WSOPE bracelet as your first-ever live victory? Yuhan Wang now belongs to the select group who knows that feeling, as he was crowned the 2025 champion of Event #5: 1,350 Mini Main Event at the 2025 World Series of Poker Europe, held at Kings Resort in Rozvadov. Wang outlasted a field of 1,293 entries, which generated a total prize pool of 1,518,628, claiming the gold bracelet and the top prize of 226,850 (including a 10,350 WSOPE Main Event ticket). The Chinese player defeated Stanislav Koleno in heads-up play. The Slovakian earned 154,650 for his runner-up finish, while Frances Christophe Vincent completed the podium in third place (112,450). #5: 1,350 Mini Main Event Final Table Results Place Player Country Prize 1 Yuhan Wang China 226,850* 2 Stanislav Koleno Slovakia 154,650* 3 Christophe Vincent France 112,450* 4 Gal Naim Israel 83,650* 5 Francesco Zappala Switzerland 63,650* 6 Besnik Aruqi Kosovo 49,750* 7 Dan Sfarlea Romania 39,900* 8 Salih Atac Switzerland 32,850* 9 Roman Isaienko Ukraine 27,750* *The top 12 players received a 10,350 ticket to the WSOPE Main Event Yuhan Wang Winner's Reaction Wangs phone started ringing as soon as he won the final hand. Thank you, thank you, its unbelievable, he quickly said before hanging up to go on stage and lift his first gold bracelet. It feels kind of unreal, he added, surrounded by friends. Before coming here, I never thought I could win a bracelet, so it feels unreal to hold it now. Its one of my first big tournaments and my first live win, so it means a lot to me. If victory wasnt on his mind from the start, a double-up on the very first hand of the tournament made the 27-year-old believe this one could be different. I ended Day 1 with 719,000, above average, but on Day 2 I went down to just 10 big blinds. I managed to get back to 20 big blinds, which was manageable, he recalled. After that, I doubled in a huge pot and things started to go smoothly. I made another crucial double-up at the start of Day 3, and then my game just felt perfect. Yuhan Wang x Stanislav Koleno That perfect game carried him all the way to heads-up play, where he began second in chips. Despite lacking both training and experience in the format, Wang entered the final battle with a clear plan: I wanted to find out how my opponent played, to learn from him and take advantage. So at the beginning I limped a lot because I needed some time to adjust. Then I climbed back thanks to those adjustments. The strategy paid off, earning him his first bracelet, with perhaps another one to come. I hope so! Ill be 99% in the Main Event, Wang said before heading off to celebrate with his friends. Day 3 Action With 23 remaining players, Day 3 of the 1,350 Mini Main Event began in an unexpected way with Patrick White moving all in on the turn with eight-six, holding absolutely nothing. Francesco Zappala couldnt have hoped for a better spot with a set of kings and scored the first elimination of the day. White was soon followed to the payout desk by Mike Koch (22nd - 7,250), Emad Zarghami (21st - 7,250), Karol Konopka (20th - 7,250), and Jakub Sterba (19th - 7,250), all eliminated in more traditional fashion. Dimitrios Michailidis (18th - 7,250) was next to go, becoming the only casualty of a three-way all-in that put Roman Isaienko back on track. This elimination, along with Eusebiu Jalbas exit in 17th place (8,800), led the 16 remaining players to the final two tables and the first break of the day. Despite the fast start, the pace slowed down to a single elimination over the next 90 minutes, though five players managed to double up during that time. Calin Ciolte eventually lost a flip to Salih Atac to finish in 15th place (8,800), sparking a wave of bustouts as Andrei Spataru (14th - 8,800), Vlastimil Pustina (13th - 10,879), and Roberto Manfredi (12th - 21,229) quickly followed. Daniel Elhaiany was next to hit the rail. However, his elimination seemed almost anecdotal compared to the hand that came just before, where Elhaiany lost nearly all of his chips after four-betting all in with seven-deuce into ace-queen. Moments later, Alkiviadis Stamatis (10th - 23,000) saw an ace hit the river to crack his jacks, sending him out on the final table bubble. Yuhan Wang It then took only three hands to see the first bustout, as Isaienko called off his stack with second pair, only to run into Gal Naims pocket aces. After Christophe Vincent doubled up, Naim nearly lost his stack after prematurely mucking his hand while all-in. His mistake, however, had no consequences, and he reached the next pay jumps thanks to flips lost by Salih Atac (8th - 32,850) and Dan Sfarlea (7th - 32,850). Besnik Aruqi then doubled up with aces, but it wasnt enough to stay in the tournament as he was ultimately eliminated in 6th place (49,750) with queen-jack against Vincents ace-four. Three hands later, Zappala wasn't more fortunate with jacks against Naims ace-king, finishing in fifth place for a total of 63,650. Meanwhile, Yuhan Wang doubled up and doubled up again a few hands later thanks to a set of sixes, leaving Naim on fumes. Naim tried to survive with ace-six, but ran into Vincent queens to take the fourth place and let the last three contenders enjoy the first (and only) break of the final table. Once back at the table, Vincent saw his dreams of a WSOPE bracelet come to an end when he called off his stack with queen-jack against Kolenos ace-queens. The Frenchman earned 112,450 for his third-place finish and allowed Koleno to start the heads-up play with a 2.5:1 lead. The first hands of the final duel went in Wangs favor, with the Chinese player steadily closing the gap. Koleno struck back by crossing the 100-million-chip mark, but Wang regained momentum and even seized the chip lead. He never relinquished it, and sealed the victory on his first opportunity, when his ace-eight held against Kolenos ace-six to claim the gold bracelet. Share this article You have permission to edit this article. Edit Close Health Reporter Tom Corwin is the Health Reporter for The Post and Courier. He is a graduate of the University of Missouri and has covered science, medicine, politics and state legislatures for newspapers in Missouri, Tennessee, Georgia, and South Carolina. While many of his peers juggle student loan debt and uncertain job prospects, 23-year-old Jacob Palmer of Concord, North Carolina, is debt-free and running a nearly six-figure electrical business. After high school, Palmer tried online college during the pandemic. "School looked drastically different doing online classes and Zoom calls. It felt very intangible," he told Fortune. He added that it didn't work for him and that he hated it. Don't Miss: Finding His Path Instead of continuing college, Palmer took temporary jobs at a FedEx warehouse and a factory in Virginia. "I had a general interest in working with my hands, fixing and making things, as well as a basic understanding of electrical theory from my time in AP Physics class," he said. He eventually began an apprenticeship with a contractor in Charlotte, North Carolina, starting at $15 per hour. In January 2024, after passing his licensing exam at 21, he launched Palmer Electrical. By the end of that year, he grossed nearly $90,000, according to documents reviewed by Fortune. So far in 2025, he has already surpassed that figure. The New Ambition: Trades Over Tuition "College is just a vehicle for getting training and skills for whatever career you want, and that might take you a year, it could take you six weeks, it could take you four years," Marlo Loria, director of career and technical education at Mesa Public Schools in Arizona, told Fortune. She said that more students are questioning debt-heavy college pathways and exploring skilled trades like electrical work, which are in high demand. Trending: Shaquille O'Neal Wants People to Take Heart Health Seriously This AI-ECG Could Make That Easier Loria added that her district has rolled out academy models that blend college prep with career training, offering students multiple routes into the workforce. Social media has also shifted expectations, she told Fortune, as young people now want clear reasons for pursuing education beyond high school. And in Arizona, she noted electricians are especially sought after as data-center projects from Alphabet Inc. (NASDAQ:GOOG, GOOGL)), Apple Inc. (NASDAQ: AAPL), and Meta Platforms Inc. (NASDAQ: META) are fueling a surge in need for skilled workers. The interest in skilled trades is showing up in national data, too. Jobber's 2025 Blue Collar Report found that only 16% of Gen Z parents believe a degree guarantees long-term job security, even as three-quarters of Gen Z still plan to pursue college. Meanwhile, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment of electricians to grow 9% from 2024 to 2034, far above the 4% average across occupations. PR-Inside.com: 2025-09-28 17:02:27 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 338 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 NEW YORK, NY / ACCESS Newswire / September 28, 2025 / Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC is investigating potential claims on behalf of purchasers of Freeport-McMoran Inc. ("Freeport" or "the Company") (NYSE:FCX). Investors who purchased Freeport securities are encouraged to obtain additional information and assist the investigation by visiting the firm's site: bgandg.com/FCX Investigation DetailsOn September 9, 2025, Freeport issued a press release announcing the suspension of mining activities at its Grasberg Block Cave operation in Indonesia, after "a large flow of wet material from a production drawpoint . . . blocked access to certain areas within the mine," trapping seven workers. Following this news, Freeport's stock price fell $2.80 per share, or 5.99%, to close at $43.87 per share on September 9, 2025. Then, on September 24, 2025, Freeport provided an update on the incident, reporting that two of the seven workers were "fatally injured" and that the remaining five workers "remain missing." Following this news, Freeport's stock price fell $7.69 per share, or 16.95%, to close at $37.67 per share on September 24, 2025.What's Next?If you are aware of any facts relating to this investigation or purchased Freeport securities, you can assist this investigation by visiting the firm's site: bgandg.com/FCX . You can also contact Peretz Bronstein or his client relations manager, Nathan Miller, of Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC: 332-239-2660There is No Cost to YouWe represent investors in class actions on a contingency fee basis. That means we will ask the court to reimburse us for out-of-pocket expenses and attorneys' fees, usually a percentage of the total recovery, only if we are successful.Why Bronstein, Gewirtz & GrossmanBronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC is a nationally recognized firm that represents investors in securities fraud class actions and shareholder derivative suits. Our firm has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors nationwide.Follow us for updates on LinkedIn, X, Facebook, or Instagram.Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.ContactBronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLCPeretz Bronstein or Nathan Miller332-239-2660 | info@ bgandg.com SOURCE: Bronstein, Gewirtz & Grossman, LLC PR-Inside.com: 2025-09-28 00:12:06 Press Information Published by ACCESSWIRE News Network 888.952.4446 e-mail http://www.accesswire.com # 622 Words ACCESSWIRE News Network888.952.4446 NEW YORK CITY, NY / ACCESS Newswire / September 27, 2025 / WHY:. Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, reminds purchasers of securities of Novo Nordisk A/S (NYSE: NVO) between May 7, 2025 and July 28, 2025, both dates inclusive (the "Class Period"), of the important September 30, 2025 lead plaintiff deadline.SO WHAT: If you purchased Novo Nordisk securities during the Class Period you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out of pocket fees or costs through a contingency fee arrangement.WHAT TO DO NEXT: To join the Novo Nordisk class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=34168or call Phillip Kim, Esq. at 866-767-3653 or email case@ rosenlegal.com for more information. A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff, you must move the Court no later than September 30, 2025. A lead plaintiff is a representative party acting on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation.WHY ROSEN LAW:We encourage investors to select qualified counsel with a track record of success in leadership roles. Often, firms issuing notices do not have comparable experience, resources, or any meaningful peer recognition. Many of these firms do not actually litigate securities class actions, but are merely middlemen that refer clients or partner with law firms that actually litigate the cases. Be wise in selecting counsel. The Rosen Law Firm represents investors throughout the globe, concentrating its practice in securities class actions and shareholder derivative litigation. Rosen Law Firm achieved the largest ever securities class action settlement against a Chinese Company at the time. Rosen Law Firm was Ranked No. 1 by ISS Securities Class Action Services for number of securities class action settlements in 2017. The firm has been ranked in the top 4 each year since 2013 and has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors. In 2019 alone the firm secured over $438 million for investors. In 2020, founding partner Laurence Rosen was named by law360 as a Titan of Plaintiffs' Bar. Many of the firm's attorneys have been recognized by Lawdragon and Super Lawyers.DETAILS OF THE CASE: According to the lawsuit, defendants provided overwhelmingly positive statements to investors while, at the same time, disseminating materially false and misleading statements and/or concealing material adverse facts concerning the true state of Novo Nordisk's growth potential. Notably, Novo Nordisk's asserted potential to capitalize on the compounded market greatly understated the potential impact of the personalization exception to the compounded GLP-1 exclusion and overstated the likelihood that such patients would switch to Novo Nordisk's branded alternatives. Further, defendants greatly overstated the potential GLP-1 market or otherwise, Novo's capability to penetrate said markets to achieve continued growth. When the true details entered the market, the lawsuit claims that investors suffered damages.To join the Novo Nordisk class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=34168 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. at 866-767-3653 or email case@ rosenlegal.com for more information.No Class Has Been Certified. Until a class is certified, you are not represented by counsel unless you retain one. You may select counsel of your choice. You may also remain an absent class member and do nothing at this point. An investor's ability to share in any potential future recovery is not dependent upon serving as lead plaintiff.Follow us for updates on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-rosen-law-firm , on Twitter: https://twitter.com/rosen_firm or on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rosenlawfirm/ Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.---Contact Information:Laurence Rosen, Esq.Phillip Kim, Esq.The Rosen Law Firm, P.A.275 Madison Avenue, 40th FloorNew York, NY 10016Tel: (212) 686-1060Toll Free: (866) 767-3653Fax: (212) 202-3827 case@ rosenlegal.comwww.rosenlegal.com SOURCE: The Rosen Law Firm, P.A. Datavault AI (DVLT) shares soared roughly 60% on Friday after the data technology and licensing company said it has secured a strategic investment worth $150 million from Scilex Holding (SCLX). According to a DVLT press release, the financing will accelerate its supercomputing infrastructure and help it launch independent data exchanges in the U.S. More News from Barchart Following the explosive rally, DVLT stock is trading nearly 350% higher than its Sept. 4 low. www.barchart.com Significance of the Scilex Investment for Datavault Stock Investors are cheering Datavault stock this morning primarily because they are reading the Scilex investment as a major vote of confidence in the companys long-term vision. The capital infusion will accelerate its supercomputing infrastructure, critical for scaling artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain-enabled data monetization. Additionally, the funding will enable the launch of independent data exchanges, positioning DVLT as a key player in Web3 and decentralized data markets. All in all, the announced partnership could unlock new revenue streams tied to high-performance computing and tokenized data assets for the Beaverton-headquartered firm. It bolsters the companys balance sheet and refines its overall growth narrative, potentially clearing the path for DVLT shares to push higher from here. Should You Load Up on DVLT Shares Today? Despite the strategic investment, Datavault AI remains a penny stock, vulnerable to unusually high volatility. This means it could reverse gains just as quickly as they scored them on Friday. Plus, DVLT stock currently receives coverages from only one Wall Street analyst, which suggests insufficient institutional scrutiny and limited visibility into its transparency and governance. That said, this micro-cap AI stock may still be suitable for high-risk investors, especially after the Scilex funding, since that lone analyst currently rates it at Strong Buy. More importantly, their price target currently sits at $3, according to Barchart, indicating potential upside of another 100%-plus from here. In short, while risks remains, Datavaults Scilex-backed pivot could mark a turning point for its AI driven growth and investor credibility. 2025 Taiyuan Energy Low Carbon Development Forum opens in China's Shanxi Xinhua) 14:32, September 28, 2025 This photo taken on Sept. 27, 2025 shows the opening ceremony of the 2025 Taiyuan Energy Low Carbon Development Forum in Taiyuan, north China's Shanxi Province. The 2025 Taiyuan Energy Low Carbon Development Forum kicked off here on Saturday. Shanxi (Taiyuan) International Energy Industry Expo 2025 was held concurrently during the forum, showcasing the latest achievements and development trends of the green and low-carbon transformation in the energy sector. The expo this year has attracted over 500 exhibitors of the energy field from home and abroad. (Xinhua/Yang Chenguang) An electric tractor is pictured at Shanxi (Taiyuan) International Energy Industry Expo 2025 in Taiyuan, north China's Shanxi Province, Sept. 27, 2025. The 2025 Taiyuan Energy Low Carbon Development Forum kicked off here on Saturday. Shanxi (Taiyuan) International Energy Industry Expo 2025 was held concurrently during the forum, showcasing the latest achievements and development trends of the green and low-carbon transformation in the energy sector. The expo this year has attracted over 500 exhibitors of the energy field from home and abroad. (Xinhua/Yang Chenguang) An electric hydraulic excavator is pictured at Shanxi (Taiyuan) International Energy Industry Expo 2025 in Taiyuan, north China's Shanxi Province, Sept. 27, 2025. The 2025 Taiyuan Energy Low Carbon Development Forum kicked off here on Saturday. Shanxi (Taiyuan) International Energy Industry Expo 2025 was held concurrently during the forum, showcasing the latest achievements and development trends of the green and low-carbon transformation in the energy sector. The expo this year has attracted over 500 exhibitors of the energy field from home and abroad. (Xinhua/Yang Chenguang) A drone with meteorological equipment is pictured at Shanxi (Taiyuan) International Energy Industry Expo 2025 in Taiyuan, north China's Shanxi Province, Sept. 27, 2025. The 2025 Taiyuan Energy Low Carbon Development Forum kicked off here on Saturday. Shanxi (Taiyuan) International Energy Industry Expo 2025 was held concurrently during the forum, showcasing the latest achievements and development trends of the green and low-carbon transformation in the energy sector. The expo this year has attracted over 500 exhibitors of the energy field from home and abroad. (Xinhua/Yang Chenguang) A visitor introduces an electric tractor via livestreaming at Shanxi (Taiyuan) International Energy Industry Expo 2025 in Taiyuan, north China's Shanxi Province, Sept. 27, 2025. The 2025 Taiyuan Energy Low Carbon Development Forum kicked off here on Saturday. Shanxi (Taiyuan) International Energy Industry Expo 2025 was held concurrently during the forum, showcasing the latest achievements and development trends of the green and low-carbon transformation in the energy sector. The expo this year has attracted over 500 exhibitors of the energy field from home and abroad. (Xinhua/Yang Chenguang) Guests attend the opening ceremony of the 2025 Taiyuan Energy Low Carbon Development Forum in Taiyuan, north China's Shanxi Province, Sept. 27, 2025. The 2025 Taiyuan Energy Low Carbon Development Forum kicked off here on Saturday. Shanxi (Taiyuan) International Energy Industry Expo 2025 was held concurrently during the forum, showcasing the latest achievements and development trends of the green and low-carbon transformation in the energy sector. The expo this year has attracted over 500 exhibitors of the energy field from home and abroad. (Xinhua/Yang Chenguang) A quadruped intelligent inspection robot for transformer substation is pictured at Shanxi (Taiyuan) International Energy Industry Expo 2025 in Taiyuan, north China's Shanxi Province, Sept. 27, 2025. The 2025 Taiyuan Energy Low Carbon Development Forum kicked off here on Saturday. Shanxi (Taiyuan) International Energy Industry Expo 2025 was held concurrently during the forum, showcasing the latest achievements and development trends of the green and low-carbon transformation in the energy sector. The expo this year has attracted over 500 exhibitors of the energy field from home and abroad. (Xinhua/Yang Chenguang) Visitors try a new energy vehicle at Shanxi (Taiyuan) International Energy Industry Expo 2025 in Taiyuan, north China's Shanxi Province, Sept. 27, 2025. The 2025 Taiyuan Energy Low Carbon Development Forum kicked off here on Saturday. Shanxi (Taiyuan) International Energy Industry Expo 2025 was held concurrently during the forum, showcasing the latest achievements and development trends of the green and low-carbon transformation in the energy sector. The expo this year has attracted over 500 exhibitors of the energy field from home and abroad. (Xinhua/Yang Chenguang) People visit Shanxi (Taiyuan) International Energy Industry Expo 2025 in Taiyuan, north China's Shanxi Province, Sept. 27, 2025. The 2025 Taiyuan Energy Low Carbon Development Forum kicked off here on Saturday. Shanxi (Taiyuan) International Energy Industry Expo 2025 was held concurrently during the forum, showcasing the latest achievements and development trends of the green and low-carbon transformation in the energy sector. The expo this year has attracted over 500 exhibitors of the energy field from home and abroad. (Xinhua/Yang Chenguang) (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) Can you really retire on crypto? Explore the risks, strategies, and reality behind turning digital assets into lasting wealth. | Credit: Getty Images. Key Takeaways Retiring solely on crypto is possible, but its highly speculative. A disciplined strategy, diversification, and timing are crucial. Yield products and staking offer passive income but carry risk. For many investors, the dream of quitting the 9-to-5 early on the back of crypto gains is irresistible. Stories of Bitcoin millionaires and Ethereum early adopters fuel the fantasy that financial freedom is just one bull run away with the right coin at the right time. But as anyone who has lived through multiple cycles knows, reality is much messier. While cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum have delivered life-changing returns over the past decade, the extreme volatility, uncertain regulation, and lack of steady income make them a risky foundation for retirement. Still, with discipline and foresight, crypto can play a role in a broader financial strategy. The Allure and the Risks On paper, crypto looks like the ultimate get-rich-quick pathway. Bitcoin has outperformed stocks, bonds, and gold by a wide margin over the last decade, with annualized returns between 20% and 30%. Some investors have indeed retired early thanks to impeccable timing. But those examples are rare, and most traders fail to cash out before the inevitable downturns. Financial planners warn against relying exclusively on crypto for retirement. Market crashes of 7080% are common, and regulations can shift overnight. But as part of a balanced portfolio, crypto has potential particularly if managed with the same rigor as traditional investments. Strategies That Work Dollar-Cost Averaging Into Bitcoin For everyday investors, dollar-cost averaging (DCA) into Bitcoin remains one of the most practical strategies. By committing to steady purchases whether $50 a week or $100 a month investors can build exposure without trying to time the market. History suggests that those who held for at least one full halving cycle often saw their portfolios grow exponentially. Diversifying Beyond Bitcoin Bitcoin may be the cornerstone, but diversification matters. Each cycle brings a new theme: NFTs and the metaverse in 2021, memecoins in early 2024, tokenization projects and derivatives platforms today. Identifying the narrative of a bull market early can yield outsized returns, though it requires sharp trendspotting and a willingness to exit before the bubble bursts. Timing the Cycles Crypto markets move in patterns tied to Bitcoin halving events. Bull markets usually begin months before the halving and peak about a year later. Investors who understand this rhythm and who take profits rather than holding through the downturn stand a better chance of turning paper gains into lasting wealth. From advanced nuclear power equipment to smart robotics, the Chinese industry pioneer unveils integrated solutions to tackle energy security and intelligent manufacturing challenges SHANGHAI, Sept. 27, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Shanghai Electric (SEHK: 2727, SSE: 601727), a global leader in industrial and energy equipment manufacturing, highlights its latest breakthroughs in new power systems and zero-carbon industrial parks at the 25th China International Industry Fair (CIIF 2025), held September 23 to 27 in Shanghai. Themed "Never Stop the Evolution," Shanghai Electric's exhibition at CIIF 2025 accentuates its commitment to enhancing global supply chain resilience through clean energy and smart manufacturing. The company aims to accelerate the transition to a sustainable, high-precision industrial ecosystem amid rising demands for energy security and decarbonization. Groundbreaking advancements making industry-wide impact At CIIF 2025, Shanghai Electric presented high-end, intelligent, and green technological innovations across seven sectorsenergy, industry, drives, components, healthcare, environmental protection, heating and cooling. Recognized for its revolutionizing contributions and impact, the company won four CIIF Energy Awards and two CIIF Industrial Automation Awards, making it the most awarded exhibitor at this year's fair. Highlights included: Hualong One advanced PWR core equipment and large forging development; Next-gen ultra-supercritical steam turbines with deep peak-shaving capabilities; 300MW hydrogen-blended heavy-duty gas turbine; LDES No.1 500 kW/2 MWh double-container vanadium-iron liquid flow battery energy storage system; Intelligent manufacturing and maintenance algorithm development and application of complex energy equipment; Spirit Python tube-climbing robot. As China's sole supplier of high-temperature gas-cooled reactor core equipment, Shanghai Electric exhibited models of its Hualong One and Guohe One reactors, demonstrating its robust capabilities in the manufacturing of third- and fourth-generation primary nuclear power equipment technologies. Since 2000, Shanghai Electric has been a key participant in the "Artificial Sun" nuclear fusion project, emerging as one of the most comprehensive suppliers of core equipment for nuclear fusion reactor systems. At CIIF 2025, the Company showcased critical components of the reactor systems, including the vacuum chamber, thermal shield, coil box, and Dewar vessel. These exhibits highlighted China's independent innovation capabilities in controlled nuclear fusion technology. The Company also presented the Taonan integrated wind-biomass green methanol project, China's first EU ISCC-certified large-scale green methanol initiative. The project provides a scalable "electricity-hydrogen-methanol" pathway for decarbonization in sectors including aviation and shipping. Furthermore, Shanghai Electric is strengthening its supply chains and advancing smart manufacturing, delivering integrated solutions for manufacturing, chemicals, metallurgy, smart cities, and industrial parks. The high-precision grinding centers with nanometer-level accuracy for aerospace engine components and robotic joints, thereby enhancing global high-end manufacturing supply chain diversity. Leveraging its diverse industrial portfolio and cross-sector synergies, Shanghai Electric has achieved a full-industry-chain ecosystem in roboticsspanning robot bodies, applications, key components, and core manufacturing equipment, to deliver resilient, cost-effective automation solutions for global industrial automation operators. The exhibition at CIIF 2025 featured specialized robots like LINGTENG (pipe inspection), LINGHANG (patrol), LINGYAO (wheel-legged), LINGKE (dual-arm), and HENGSUN (hip surgery system), as well as humanoid robot components. As heritage meets innovation, Shanghai Electric also presented a special exhibition titled "Century of Power" featuring historic artifacts including China's first 6,000 kW steam turbine measuring instrument, reflecting the Company's engineering legacy and reliability, which is the cornerstone of delivering mega-scale projects worldwide. Looking forward, Shanghai Electric will continue to drive synergetic evolution in energy and industry, refining and upgrading our core technologies toward a future defined by 'industrial innovation, and intelligent manufacturing without boundaries.' With new quality productive forces as the key driver of high-quality development, Shanghai Electric aims to propel Shanghai and China's new industrialization through innovation-driven growth, tangible advancements, and high-end transformation. SOURCE Shanghai Electric We came across a bullish thesis on Root, Inc. on Value investing subreddit by mike-some. In this article, we will summarize the bulls thesis on Root. Root, Inc.'s share was trading at $95.29 as of September 17th. Roots trailing and forward P/E were 18.52 and 3.60 respectively according to Yahoo Finance. ROOT Insurance is carving out a distinctive position in the auto insurance market by offering the lowest-cost coverage for objectively safe drivers, leveraging telematics as the foundation of its underwriting. Prospective customers undergo a three-week driver safety test, with only about 70% passing, ensuring that ROOT avoids high-risk drivers and maintains best-in-industry loss ratios. This disciplined approach allows customers to save an average of $900 per year, creating a compelling value proposition. Customer acquisition, traditionally a challenging aspect of the insurance business due to policy stickiness, is being addressed through strategic partnerships. ROOT embeds itself with partners such as Carvana and Hyundai, positioning itself as the preferred carrier at the point of salea channel that is increasingly contributing to new policy growth. Founder-led and still in the early stages of expansion, ROOT is currently licensed in 35 states with ambitions to become a national carrier, signaling substantial growth potential. The company has already achieved $1.4 billion in trailing twelve-month revenue, and at an estimated 6% margin at scale and a 25x multiple, the stocks fair value is projected around $140 per share. This combination of disciplined underwriting, innovative distribution channels, and significant expansion potential positions ROOT as an intriguing investment opportunity with both defensive characteristicsthrough its focus on low-risk driversand considerable upside as it scales its national presence. Investors benefit from a clear growth narrative supported by structural advantages in underwriting and distribution, providing a compelling risk/reward profile in the competitive auto insurance market. Previously we covered a bullish thesis on Root, Inc. (ROOT) by Creative-Cranberry47 in May 2025, which highlighted its breakout Q1 earnings, strong underwriting, and expanding partnerships. The company's stock price has depreciated approximately 35% since our coverage due to broader market pressures. The thesis still stands as ROOTs tech-driven underwriting and scalable growth remain intact. Mike-some shares a similar perspective but emphasizes low-cost coverage for safe drivers and national expansion. Ringcentral, Inc. allegedly failed to provide employees with accurate wages due to missed meal breaks. This allegedly resulted in violations of various California Labor Codes. **THIS IS AN ATTORNEY ADVERTISEMENT** SAN MATEO, Calif., Sept. 27, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The San Francisco employment law attorneys, at Blumenthal Nordrehaug Bhowmik De Blouw LLP, filed a class action complaint alleging that Ringcentral, Inc. violated the California Labor Code. The Ringcentral, Inc. class action lawsuit, Case No. 25-CIV-06384, is currently pending in the San Mateo County Superior Court of the State of California. A copy of the Complaint can be read here . The Law Office of Blumenthal Nordrehaug Bhowmik De Blouw LLP According to the lawsuit filed, Ringcentral, Inc. allegedly (a) failed to pay minimum wages, (b) failed to pay overtime wages, (c) failed to provide legally required meal and rest periods , (d) failed to provide accurate itemized wage statements, (e) failed to reimburse for required expenses, (f) failed to pay sick wages, and (g) failed to provide wages when due, all in violation of the applicable Labor Code sections listed in California Labor Code Sections 201-203, 226, 226.7, 233, 246, 510, 512, 1194, 1197, 1197.1, 2802, and the applicable Wage Order(s), and thereby gives rise to civil penalties as a result of such alleged conduct. Ringcentral, Inc. allegedly, from time to time, required employees to work in excess of four (4) hours without being provided ten (10) minute rest periods. Further, these employees were denied their first rest periods of at least ten (10) minutes for some shifts worked of \ at least two (2) to four (4) hours from time to time, a first and second rest period of at least ten(10) minutes for some shifts worked of between six (6) and eight (8) hours from time to time, and a first, second and third rest period of at least ten (10) minutes for some shifts worked for ten (10) hours or more from time to time. Employees were also required by Defendant to work off the clock to ensure all work was finished before going home. This resulted in Defendant violating Cal. Lab. Code 1194, 1197, and 1197.1 . For more information about the class action lawsuit against Ringcentral, Inc., call (800) 568-8020 to speak to an experienced California employment attorney today. Blumenthal Nordrehaug Bhowmik De Blouw LLP is an employment law firm with offices located in San Diego, San Francisco, Sacramento, Los Angeles, Riverside and Chicago that dedicates its practice to helping employees, investors and consumers fight back against unfair business practices, including violations of the California Labor Code and Fair Labor Standards Act. If you need help in collecting unpaid overtime wages, unpaid commissions, being wrongfully terminated from work, and other employment law claims, contact one of their attorneys today. **THIS IS AN ATTORNEY ADVERTISEMENT** Media Contact Nicholas De Blouw Blumenthal Nordrehaug Bhowmik De Blouw LLP (800) 568-8020 [email protected] https://www.bamlawca.com/ SOURCE Blumenthal Nordrehaug Bhowmik De Blouw LLP BEIJING, Sept. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- On a recent raining morning in Xiaohuajiang village, Zhenfeng county, Southwest China's Guizhou Province, Liang Shaoyu, a villager in his 70, stood on the second-floor balcony, marveling at a massive bridge overhead. The greenish, steel structure looks particularly striking among the thick clouds. Less than a kilometer away, Xie Chaoqing usually gets up to the rooftop of his house, launching his drone to film the bridge and livestream it to many around the country. Across the street, a couple from East China's Zhejiang Province are busy turning an old house into a modern homestay for visitors. As the night falls, several local young people gathered at the entrance to the village, playing the traditional instruments around a bonfire, with colorful lights from the bridge overhead. They are all preparing for the big day for not just Xiaohuajiang and Guizhou but also the world's bridge construction history: the Huajiang Grand Canyon Bridge will officially open to traffic on September 28, 2025. Spanning 2,890 meters in total with a main span of 1,420 meters, it claims the crown as the world's longest span bridge built in mountainous areas. Rising 625 meters from its deck to the river surface, it also secures its place as the planet's tallest bridge. What imprint will September 28, leave on China's unfolding story? It is not just the "birthday" of the world's tallest bridge, but also the moment a new landmark tourist attraction emerges - a day when locals, who nest deep in the mountains, step further away from isolation and closer to the opportunities of the wider world. For Guizhou, the opening of the Huajiang Grand Canyon Bridge is the latest milestone in its widely celebrated bridge construction legacy. Aptly named as "the world's bridge museum," Guizhou has now built, or is in the process of building, more than 32,000 bridges. Nearly half of the world's 100 highest bridges are located here, with the top three all making Guizhou their home, the Global Times learned from Guizhou provincial transportation department. Yet behind these staggering numbers and record-setting spans lies a deeper narrative. More than transportation miracles, they stand as monuments to the perseverance and forward-looking resolve of the Guizhou people, who never cease striving for progress toward Chinese modernization. Such a resilient spirit is palpable during Global Times reporters' interviews with local residents, entrepreneurs, construction workers and engineers. New bridge, new lives Liang lives by the Beipan River, where the Huajiang Grand Canyon Bridge commands the view from his window. Each day, he finds himself gazing at the structure, lost in thought - the echoes of footsteps on the ancient trade route Tea Horse Road, the metallic creak of the old iron-chain suspension bridge from decades past now merging with the sight of the colossal new bridge before him. Born in 1953 in Xiaohuajiang village, a Buyi ethnic community nestled in the folds of Guizhou's karst mountains, Liang grew up in a world locked tightly by peaks and rivers. In his childhood memories, "roads" meant the tangible exhaustion of travel, and "bridges" only barely ensured passage. At that time, Xiaohuajiang village had only three ways out: one across the river and two over the mountains. To go to the market, villagers had to wake up at 3 am to slaughter pigs, carry loads on their shoulders, and climb mountains for three to four hours. Merchants and travelers crossed the river by bamboo raft, while horse caravans loaded with salt and tobacco trekked along the remains of the ancient Tea Horse Road. Floods were frequent, often washing away the temporary stone bridges. The evolution of bridges has been a touchstone of memory for several generations in the village. According to inscriptions carved near the Huajiang Iron Chain Bridge, its construction began in 1898 during the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911), funded by local officials. When the iron bridge could no longer meet growing needs, a modern highway bridge was built downstream in 1961, allowing heavy vehicles to pass, but this bridge still cannot bypass the winding mountain road, Guizhou Daily reported. Liang said he had imagined countless times: "If one day a bridge could be built on the top of the mountain and people could cross it, how convenient it would be!" Having served in the military in Yunnan where "he had seen the outside world," he was elected by villagers as the secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) branch of Xiaohuajiang village in 1983. At his first village meeting, he proposed: "We need to develop tourism!" The statement became a laughingstock. For generations, villagers had known only farming; the idea seemed like fantasy. Today, the Huajiang Grand Canyon Bridge is transforming the village. Once open, the crossing time between the canyon's two banks will drop from the previous two hours to a mere two minutes. Investors from other provinces lease old homes for guesthouses. Liang's own ancestral home is now a hostel run by an entrepreneur from East China's Zhejiang Province, hosting visitors drawn by the bridge's fame. Next door, 34-year-old Lin Guoquan returned home to open a homestay. Every day, he tells inquiring tourists over the phone: "You can see the bridge directly from our courtyard." In recent days, all 40 of his guest rooms have been fully booked. His former classmate, Li Hanhan, volunteers at Lin's homestay after shifts at the milk-tea shop she founded, "High Bridge Tea Talk." On the evening of September 24, Lin and Li brought Global Times reporters to a gathering at the village entrance. Young locals lit a bonfire, played the suona, a traditional Chinese musical instrument, and watched a test run of the bridge's water-screen light show across the valley. She live-streamed the scene, explaining the live stream was for Xiaohuajiang villagers working outside the area. In the comments, one wrote: "I'll come back during the National Day holidays to see how beautiful our hometown has become." Liang told the Global Times that the backwardness and isolation of the past made local people hope they could escape these mountains. But now he believes each generation has its own bridges and roads to travel. "I have walked on muddy roads and stone paths, crossed iron-chain bridges, and finally witnessed the birth of a world-class marvel," Liang said. "For the youth of Xiaohuajiang, however, a broad avenue awaits, leading their hometown, toward prosperity, and into the future." Bridge-tourism drives revitalization Like Liang, Xie starts each morning on his rooftop terrace, but instead of gazing into the distance, he lifts a drone controller, sending propellers whirring into the morning mist over the gorge. From an aerial view, his lens captures the world's tallest bridge arching across the Huajiang Gorge. The experienced aerial photographer, originally from Guanling county on the opposite side of the bridge. He used to build a career in social media over in Zhejiang. A few years back, when he heard his hometown was expecte to get this record-breaking bridge, he grabbed his stuff and headed home, hoping to become a Vlogger who films the whole bridge-building process. Initially scouting for the perfect shooting angle, he trekked through surrounding villages, and discovered Xiaohuajiang village. Documenting the bridge became Xie's daily mission. He shares aerial footage and construction stories across social media platforms, now amassing over 1 million followers. Construction workers, technicians, and engineers often tune into his livestreams, forming friendships because of the bridge and across the screen. Some even brought him promotional brochures about the bridge, urging him to "promote our super project to more people outside." Through his lens, netizens at home and abroad have gradually learned that the bridge is not just a transportation hub, but also a bridge-tourism integration demonstration project. A 207-meter-high sightseeing elevator whisks visitors to the bridge tower's top in 60 seconds, where a "cloud-top cafe," nearly 800 meters above the river, awaits. Additional attractions include a 1,411-meter-long aerial racing track, professional bungee facilities, and a glass observation hall encircling the bridge, making the structure as experiential as it is functional. "Many netizens actively discuss with me during my livestream about the travel routes after coming to the bridge and how to choose the most appealing attractions among the numerous ones," Xie told the Global Times. Global Times reporters observed that as one walks along the road leading to the Yundu highway service area near the bridge, murals of ancient marine fossils on the anti-landslide retaining walls on both sides stand out prominently. "The Huajiang bridge stands on Triassic rock layers formed 250 to 201 million years ago, and is a world-famous spot for Triassic paleontology research," Zhang Xiaosong, cultural and tourism expert of Guizhou Normal University, told the Global Times. "When designing the service area nearby, our team made sure the bridge fits perfectly with the natural scenery and historical relics, all while working well as a transportation structure. Now, around this service area, you can also find canyon hotels, Triassic-themed guesthouses, and a youth archaeology research base all of which are being steadily planned and constructed." Zhang pointed out that the uniqueness of Guizhou's tourism lies in its ability to turn world-class projects directly into tourist attractions. "This not only avoids the high upfront investment of traditional tourism projects, but also significantly boosts the return on investment in transportation infrastructure construction." Known as "the world's bridge musuem," Guizhou already boasts unique bridge-tourism resources. Moreover, local authorities are continuing to explore new paths for bridge-tourism integration through the construction of one bridge after another, Zhang said. Spirit in every span When talking about his bond with the Huajiang Grand Canyon Bridge, Tian Hongrui, a 26-year-old hoisting technician for the bridge, uses an unexpectedly tender metaphor: "This bridge is like my own child." Though unmarried, he has witnessed and taken part in every stage of the bridge's journey. Joining the project back in May 2020 during its survey phase, Tian said that over the past five-plus years, he has averaged 20,000 steps per day, measuring the construction site inch by inch with his feet. During the interview with the Global Times, Tian noted that the deep U-shaped terrain of the Huajiang Gorge posed countless challenges for builders, with the most intractable being the unpredictable canyon winds. "Instant wind speeds can reach Level 14, equivalent to a strong typhoon," Tian said. His tone carries both awe for nature and the quiet tenacity of a builder. He added that during the hoisting of steel truss girders, a single segment weighs 215 tons, and work must halt if winds exceed Level 6. Meanwhile, the strict precision requirements for steel structure installation force the team to work at night when temperatures are low. But the canyon is often shrouded in thick fog after dark, leaving visibility extremely poor. Every operation feels like "walking a tightrope," combining safety risks with mounting construction difficulties, he said. But adversity bred innovation. When conventional measuring tools faltered in the wind and fog, the BeiDou navigation system provided precision, acting as a "distant eye" to secure the installation of main cables. The introduction of a smart cable-hoisting system automated transport and installation, and in the most dangerous conditions, no on-site personnel were needed. Today, Tian's biggest wish is simple yet passionate: "After the bridge opens, I must take my mom to walk on the deck, point to the bridge and tell her, 'Mom, this is the world-class project your son participated in!'" In contrast to Tian's "pride as a newcomer," Liu Hao, chief engineer of the Huajiang Grand Canyon Bridge project, who has worked on three world-class bridges, holds a more sober perspective on "breaking records." Liu is forthright: the bridge becoming the "world's tallest" was not a deliberate pursuit of a record, but a "suitable and cost-effective" choice given Guizhou's unique geographical environment. "Surrounded by mountains, only a bridge like this can connect transportation networks at the optimal cost," he told the Global Times. To him, China's bridge engineering leap is not an overnight success. "It is the cumulative result of generations," he said. The expertise inherited from predecessors, paired with advances in 5G and BeiDou, has propelled Guizhou from follower to leader in bridge technology. Behind this transformation lies a deeper impulse: "We Guizhou people were forced to innovate," Liu said. "We see bridges as gateways to modernization and to the world." On September 21, Liu stood on the bridge to welcome journalists from an ASEAN Plus Three (10+3) media delegation. "It is precisely because of this bridge that we can meet here today," he told them. From the launch of its first expressway in 2001 to becoming the first western Chinese province to achieve county-level expressway access by 2015, Guizhou used only 15 years to rewrite its destiny. By the end of 2024, the province's expressway network had reached 9,042 kilometers, studded with world-class bridges and tunnels that have drawn global attention, Guizhou Daily reported. When talking about his understanding of "bridges," Liu's tone softens, "It is mathematics, physics, and mechanics, but also philosophy, poetry, and distant horizons." In his eyes, each bridge represents a connection of shared aspiration: linking isolated mountains to markets, transforming local resources into opportunities, and weaving Guizhou's landscapes into the global tapestry. "We Guizhou people possess this poetic sensibility," Liu said. "And we are willing to strive for new miracles as we pursue for a better future." SOURCE Global Times NEW YORK, Sept. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Pomerantz LLP is investigating claims on behalf of investors of Freeport-McMoran Inc. ("Freeport" or the "Company") (NYSE: FCX). Such investors are advised to contact Danielle Peyton at [email protected] or 646-581-9980, ext. 7980. The investigation concerns whether Freeport and certain of its officers and/or directors have engaged in securities fraud or other unlawful business practices. [Click here for information about joining the class action] On September 9, 2025, Freeport issued a press release announcing the suspension of mining activities at its Grasberg Block Cave operation in Indonesia, after "a large flow of wet material from a production drawpoint . . . blocked access to certain areas within the mine," trapping seven workers. On this news, Freeport's stock price fell $2.80 per share, or 5.99%, to close at $43.87 per share on September 9, 2025. Pomerantz LLP, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, London, Paris, and Tel Aviv, is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, Pomerantz pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 85 years later, Pomerantz continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered numerous multimillion-dollar damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomlaw.com. Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes. CONTACT: Danielle Peyton Pomerantz LLP [email protected] 646-581-9980 ext. 7980 SOURCE Pomerantz LLP NEW YORK, Sept. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Pomerantz LLP is investigating claims on behalf of investors of Skillz Inc. ("Skillz" or the "Company") (NYSE: SKLZ). Such investors are advised to contact Danielle Peyton at [email protected] or 646-581-9980, ext. 7980. The investigation concerns whether Skillz and certain of its officers and/or directors have engaged in securities fraud or other unlawful business practices. [Click here for information about joining the class action] On September 2, 2025, Skillz disclosed in a filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission that Tether Studios and its affiliate Tether Games (together, "Tether") plan to terminate all agreements with Skillz, effective September 1, 2025. Under the agreements, Skillz has licensed its software to Tether for use in monetizing Tether's games. In return, both companies share the revenue from user entry fees. After receiving the notice, Skillz filed a lawsuit on September 1, 2025, seeking to block Tether's termination of their agreements. Skillz is also disputing Tether's reasons for ending the deal. On this news, Skillz's stock price fell $1.50 per share, or 17.22%, to close at $7.21 per share on September 3, 2025. The Pomerantz Firm, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, London, and Paris is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, the Pomerantz Firm pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 80 years later, the Pomerantz Firm continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered numerous multimillion-dollar damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomerantzlaw.com. Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes. CONTACT: Danielle Peyton Pomerantz LLP [email protected] 646-581-9980 ext. 7980 SOURCE Pomerantz LLP NEW YORK, Sept. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Pomerantz LLP announces that a class action lawsuit has been filed against Novo Nordisk A/S ("Novo Nordisk" or the "Company") (NYSE: NVO). Such investors are advised to contact Danielle Peyton at [email protected] or 646-581-9980, (or 888.4-POMLAW), toll-free, Ext. 7980. Those who inquire by e-mail are encouraged to include their mailing address, telephone number, and the number of shares purchased. The class action concerns whether Novo Nordisk and certain of its officers and/or directors have engaged in securities fraud or other unlawful business practices. You have until September 30, 2025 to ask the Court to appoint you as Lead Plaintiff for the class if you purchased or otherwise acquired Novo Nordisk securities during the Class Period. A copy of the Complaint can be obtained at www.pomerantzlaw.com . [Click here for information about joining the class action] On July 29, 2025, Novo Nordisk significantly lowered its sales outlook for 2025. The Company attributed the reduction to "lowered growth expectations for the second half of 2025" for both Wegovy and Ozempic due to "the persistent use of compounded GLP-1s, slower-than-expected market expansion and competition." On this news, Novo Nordisk's American Depositary Receipt ("ADR") price fell $15.06 per ADR, or 21.83%, to close at $53.94 per ADR on July 29, 2025. Pomerantz LLP, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, London, Paris, and Tel Aviv, is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, Pomerantz pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 85 years later, Pomerantz continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered numerous multimillion-dollar damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomlaw.com. Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes. CONTACT: Danielle Peyton Pomerantz LLP [email protected] 646-581-9980 ext. 7980 SOURCE Pomerantz LLP Beginning October 1, 2025, the Lumea device integration will be available as an optional feature on the Maestro Encore. On January 1, 2026, it will become a standard feature, ensuring pathology labs worldwide benefit from this streamlined solution that bridges specimen grossing with digital pathology workflows. "This next phase of our partnership with Lumea reinforces Mopec's commitment to driving innovation that directly benefits patients and laboratory professionals," said Francis X. Dirksmeier, CEO at Mopec Group. "By integrating Lumea's technology into the Maestro Encore, we are delivering a comprehensive solution that empowers laboratories to achieve greater accuracy, efficiency, and consistency in diagnosis." Mopec Group is also proud to be participating at the Lumea Summit this month, serving on the panel "Climbing Together: How the Diagnostic Ecosystem Reaches the Summit." Their participation underscores Mopec's commitment to collaboration and innovation in pathology, as the industry moves toward more connected and technology-driven diagnostic practices. In addition to device integration, Mopec is excited to announce its role as the exclusive supplier of Lumea consumable products, which will be available for purchase through Mopec's website and distributor channels. These pre-analytical tissue-handling devices are designed to preserve tissue quality, increase tissue yield, and ultimately ensure the most accurate diagnosis for patients. BxBoard : An advanced tissue collection and transport device that replaces formaldehyde bottles, simplifying workflows for surgery centers and laboratory staff while improving tissue quality. Available in multiple configurations to meet the unique needs of each lab. : An advanced tissue collection and transport device that replaces formaldehyde bottles, simplifying workflows for surgery centers and laboratory staff while improving tissue quality. Available in multiple configurations to meet the unique needs of each lab. BxChip: A biomimetic organic polymer chip that securely holds and preserves up to six needle-core biopsies in consistent orientation. The chip ensures optimal tissue presentation and reduces the risk of tissue loss, supporting higher diagnostic confidence. "We are thrilled to be the exclusive supplier of these consumables," said Jeff Pemberton, VP of Marketing and Commercial Strategy. "Together, Mopec and Lumea are equipping labs with the tools they need to ensure consistency, reliability, and patient-focused outcomes." This expanded partnership exemplifies Mopec's mission to empower pathology professionals with the industry's leading platform of products and solutions. By combining state-of-the-art equipment with consumables designed to optimize pre-analytical processes, Mopec and Lumea are shaping the future of diagnostic accuracy and efficiency. About Mopec Group Mopec Group, headquartered in Madison Heights, Michigan, is a vertically integrated, branded supplier and manufacturer of high-quality anatomic and forensic pathology equipment, technology, consumable products, and services. Founded in 1992, Mopec Group differentiates itself through its innovation, engineering excellence, and outcome-focused mindset. Mopec Group is elevating pathology with complete solutions for labs in hospitals, universities, morgues, and beyond. For more information, visit www.mopecgroup.com and www.mopec.com. About Lumea Lumea is powering efficient, affordable, and accessible digital pathology through simplified, workflow-driven innovation with both tissue-handling technology and a best-in-class viewer with AI-driven workflows. As the U.S. leader in primary clinical digital pathology, processing the highest volume of digital cases nationwide. With over a decade of expertise, Lumea has set the standard for efficiency, quality, and premium cancer diagnostics. With a global presence spanning five continents, Lumea supports over half of the U.S. urology market and top dermatology and gastroenterology groups, optimizing tissue integrity, boosting detection rates, and delivering measurable ROI. By placing patients at the core, Lumea is transforming pathology for a more precise and efficient future. Learn more at www.lumeadigital.com. Media Contact: Jeff Pemberton Vice President of Marketing & Commercial Strategy [email protected] o. 248.284.0871 | c. 810.300.2157 Bianca Collings Lumea VP, Head of Marketing [email protected] SOURCE Mopec NEW YORK, Sept. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Pomerantz LLP announces that a class action lawsuit has been filed against Dow Inc. ("Dow" or the "Company") (NYSE: DOW) and certain officers. The class action, filed in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan, Northern Division, and docketed under 25-cv-12744, is on behalf of a class consisting of all persons and entities other than Defendants that purchased or otherwise acquired Dow securities between January 30, 2025 and July 23, 2025, both dates inclusive (the "Class Period"), seeking to recover damages caused by Defendants' violations of the federal securities laws and to pursue remedies under Sections 10(b) and 20(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and Rule 10b-5 promulgated thereunder, against the Company and certain of its top officials. If you are an investor who purchased or otherwise acquired Dow securities during the Class Period, you have until October 28, 2025, to ask the Court to appoint you as Lead Plaintiff for the class. A copy of the Complaint can be obtained at www.pomerantzlaw.com . To discuss this action, contact Danielle Peyton at [email protected] or 646-581-9980 (or 888.4-POMLAW), toll-free, Ext. 7980. Those who inquire by e-mail are encouraged to include their mailing address, telephone number, and the number of shares purchased. [Click here for information about joining the class action] Dow is an American materials science company, serving customers in the packaging, infrastructure, mobility, and consumer applications industries. Dow conducts its worldwide operations through six global businesses organized into three operating segments: (i) Packaging & Specialty Plastics, (ii) Industrial Intermediates & Infrastructure, and (iii) Performance Materials & Coatings. Historically, Dow has touted its "industry-leading dividend," which is of particular importance to investors. On conference calls with investors and analysts, Dow's Chief Executive Officer, Defendant Jim Fitterling ("Fitterling"), has variously stated that the Company's "dividend is a key element of our investment thesis," and that "north of 65% of our owners count on that dividend." Notwithstanding an ongoing slump in the materials science industry, as well as the recent onset of tariff-related market uncertainties, at all relevant times, Defendants represented that Dow was well positioned to weather macroeconomic and tariff-related headwinds while maintaining sufficient levels of financial flexibility to support the Company's lucrative dividend. Specifically, Defendants cited various purported strengths and advantages unique to Dow in its industry, including, inter alia, the Company's purported "differentiated portfolio," "cost-advantaged footprint," and "industry-leading flexibility to navigate global trade dynamics." Throughout the Class Period, Defendants made materially false and misleading statements regarding Dow's business, operations, and prospects. Specifically, Defendants made false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (i) Dow's ability to mitigate macroeconomic and tariff-related headwinds, as well as to maintain the financial flexibility needed to support its lucrative dividend, was overstated; (ii) the true scope and severity of the foregoing headwinds' negative impacts on Dow's business and financial condition was understated, particularly with respect to competitive and pricing pressures, softening global sales and demand for the Company's products, and an oversupply of products in the Company's global markets; and (iii) as a result, Defendants' public statements were materially false and misleading at all relevant times. On June 23, 2025, BMO Capital downgraded its recommendation on Dow to "Underperform" from "Market Perform" while also cutting its price target on the Company's stock to $22.00 per share from $29.00 per share, citing sustained weakness across key end markets and mounting pressure on the Company's dividend. On this news, Dow's stock price fell $0.89 per share, or 3.21%, to close at $26.87 per share on June 23, 2025. Then, on July 24, 2025, Dow issued a press release reporting its financial results for the second quarter of 2025. Therein, Dow reported a non-GAAP loss per share of $0.42, significantly larger than the approximate $0.17 to $0.18 per share loss expected by analysts. Dow also reported net sales of $10.1 billion, representing a 7.3% year-over-year decline and missing consensus estimates by $130 million, "reflecting declines in all operating segments." The Company further reported, inter alia, that "[s]equentially, net sales were down 3%, as seasonally higher demand in Performance Materials & Coatings was more than offset by declines across the other operating segments." Defendant Fitterling blamed these disappointing results on "the lower-for-longer earnings environment that our industry is facing, amplified by recent trade and tariff uncertainties," while providing a dour outlook marked by "signs of oversupply from newer market entrants who are exporting to various regions at anti-competitive economics." In a separate press release issued the same day, Dow revealed that it was cutting its dividend in half, from $0.70 per share to only $0.35 per share, citing the need for "financial flexibility amidst a persistently challenging macroeconomic environment." Following these disclosures, Dow's stock price fell $5.30 per share, or 17.45%, to close at $25.07 per share on July 24, 2025. Pomerantz LLP, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, London, Paris, and Tel Aviv, is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, Pomerantz pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 85 years later, Pomerantz continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered billions of dollars in damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomlaw.com . Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes. CONTACT: Danielle Peyton Pomerantz LLP [email protected] 646-581-9980 ext. 7980 SOURCE Pomerantz LLP TAIPEI, Sept. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- This article comes from i-News: Between Mountains and Sea Memory Encoder TZOLKIN LIGHT Led by media artist and artistic director Chin-Hsiang, Hu, Taiwan's Peppercorns Interactive Media Art will take center stage at two of Europe's major new media art festivals in October 2025: Signal Festival in Prague and RADAR Festival in Bucharest. Peppercorns Interactive Media Art is not only the first Taiwanese team ever to present on Signal Festival's main stage, but also the first Asian media art collective invited to participate in RADAR Festival, marking a significant milestone in Taiwan's presence on the international cultural map. Signal Festival (Prague, Czech RepublicOct 1619) As Europe's largest light art festival, Signal Festival attracts over one million visitors annually. Peppercorns Interactive Media Art will present two large-scale immersive works during the festival's main program: Between Mountains and Sea Namesti Republiky A 10-meter transparent LED ring structure depicting the flow of mountains, seas, memory, and time. Visitors can move freely within the installation, triggering light and sound. TZOLK'IN LIGHT Vltava River Inspired by the Mayan calendar, this piece combines water screen projection, lasers, and sound to create a luminous ritual along the Vltava River. As Europe's largest light art festival, Signal Festival attracts over one million visitors annually. Peppercorns Interactive Media Art will present two large-scale immersive works during the festival's main program: This marks the first-ever appearance of Taiwanese new media art in Signal Festival's main exhibition zone, underscoring the growing international recognition of Taiwan's creative energy. RADAR Festival (Bucharest, RomaniaOct 35) The largest new media art festival in Romania, RADAR spotlights interactive installations, generative AI, and immersive audiovisual experiences. Peppercorns Interactive Media Art will debut as the first-ever Asian participant with: Memory Encoder An AI-driven interactive installation where audience-uploaded images are instantly transformed into generative visuals and projected into an immersive environment. Since its premiere at the 2024 Taoyuan Techno Art Festival, the work has collected nearly 5,000 interactions. The largest new media art festival in Romania, RADAR spotlights interactive installations, generative AI, and immersive audiovisual experiences. Peppercorns Interactive Media Art will debut as the with: With over 20,000 visitors each year, RADAR Festival marks Peppercorns Interactive Media Art's first entry into Eastern Europe's new media art scene. Taiwan's Global Leap in Media Art From Prague to Bucharest, Peppercorns Interactive Media Art will bring light, sound, interactivity, and cultural narratives to European audiences, showcasing the diverse and dynamic spirit of Taiwanese media art on the world stage. SOURCE i-news WASHINGTON, Sept. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The American Kitchen Cabinet Alliance (AKCA) today applauds President Trump's bold leadership and thanks him for imposing a 50% tariff on all cabinetry and component parts as the result of his Section 232 investigation. The Presidential Proclamation will soon be signed into law by President Trump to save American cabinet manufacturers from a flood of unfairly traded foreign cabinet imports that are threatening 250,000 cabinet jobs across the country. "Right now, I feel the hand of history on our shoulder for America's cabinet industry. Without President Trump and his team at the U.S. Department of Commerce taking decisive action our more than $14 billion industry would be wiped out" remarked John Gahm, President of Kitchen Kompact Inc. "With no exceptions and no exemptions to the Section 232 tariff on foreign cabinet imports, we will unleash a new Golden Age for domestic cabinetry manufacturing." "President Trump's 50% tariff on all kitchen cabinet imports is a gamechanger for America's cabinet industry and we will ramp up domestic cabinet production in North Carolina and across America" said Edwin Underwood, President and COO at Marsh Furniture Company. "Under President Trump's leadership we will strengthen U.S. national and economic security as we work to Make Cabinetry Great Again." "Let me applaud President Trump for his bold and decisive leadership by imposing a 50% tariff on foreign kitchen cabinet imports" remarked Stephen Wellborn, Co-Owner of Wellborn Cabinet. "America's cabinet industry supports small towns like mine across our nation, and we appreciate the tremendous support of our U.S. Senators Katie Britt and Tommy Tuberville who stood strong with over 5,000 cabinet manufacturing workers and their families in Alabama," said Co-Owner of Wellborn Cabinet Stephen Wellborn. The 50% Section 232 tariff on lumber, timber and derivative products like cabinetry is part of President Trump's commitment to rebuild domestic manufacturing. Now America's cabinet industry and over 250,000 great American workers can compete on a level playing field. About AKCA: The American Kitchen Cabinet Alliance (AKCA) is a coalition of organizations that have joined forces to fight for American kitchen cabinet workers and our industry. Established in 2019, AKCA is standing up for American manufacturing workers and supporting the actions of those who oppose foreign countries such as Cambodia, Malaysia, Mexico, Thailand and Vietnam that engage in unfair trade practices. We want to level the playing field for American cabinet workers and support an America First trade agenda. SOURCE American Kitchen Cabinet Alliance The Department of Education is working through a backlog of income-driven repayment applications. Advocates are urging quick processing before borrowers face new taxes on student-loan forgiveness next year. Debt relief through income-based repayment plans is also delayed until the winter. The clock is ticking for President Donald Trump's administration to work through a student-loan forgiveness backlog. Since Trump took office, his Department of Education has been processing a slew of income-driven repayment applications and filings for debt forgiveness, known as buybacks, tied to extra payments for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program, before changes to those plans go into effect next year. The processing backlog began under former President Joe Biden due to legal challenges against his SAVE income-driven repayment plan. While processing resumed in early January, the Trump administration faced a lawsuit from advocates over accusations of unnecessary delays. The Department of Education said in an August court filing that 1.3 million income-driven repayment plans are pending as of July 31, along with 72,730 PSLF requests for credit toward forgiveness coming from extra payments. The continued backlogs prompted the American Federation of Teachers to amend a previously filed complaint into a class action on September 17, and it urged the department to cancel the loans of borrowers who have met their payment threshold through their repayment plans or PSLF. "At this rate, borrowers may have to wait years to receive the benefits that Congress directed should be provided to them," the filing said. This is especially timely, the filing added, because loan forgiveness through income-driven repayment plans will once again be taxable beginning January 1, 2026. That's because a 2021 provision in the American Rescue Plan that made forgiveness tax-free is expiring. Borrowers seeking forgiveness under those plans could face thousands of dollars in tax bills, depending on the amount forgiven, if they don't get approved by the end of the year. Millions of student-loan borrowers have been in relief limbo not only due to paperwork processing delays but also changes to repayment plans codified in Trump's "big beautiful" spending law. It means that borrowers could be facing more expensive monthly payments and new taxes on any relief next year while the administration moves forward with its plan to overhaul the student-loan repayment system. AFT's complaint said that one plaintiff has paid her loans for over 25 years, and despite reaching the forgiveness threshold, the department has not processed her relief. She has continued to make $700 payments to avoid falling into delinquency, and she'll face a tax liability if her relief is not processed this year. If you were looking for the Charlestown Democratic Town Committee website and ended up here, try this Got news tips, gossip, suggestions, complaints?E-mail us: progressivecharlestown@gmail.com We strive to avoid errors in our articles. Our correction policy can be found here I spoke to founder and CEO Don Burnette the day before Kodiaks big debut about why he took the company public let alone via a SPAC. It was a big moment for Burnette, whose family was on hand to watch him ring the bell and mark the milestone. The stock was trading at about $7.70 Friday, down about 10% from its market open. Kodiak raised $275 million in financing. More than $212.5 million came from certain institutional investors, including $145 million in PIPE funding and about $62.9 million in trust cash from Ares. It should be noted that the trust cash is smaller (it was $562 million), as some SPAC investors redeemed their shares. The company, which is now called Kodiak AI, went public via a merger with special-purpose acquisition company Ares Acquisition Corporation II, an affiliate of Ares Management. The deal valued the startup at about $2.5 billion. Next up is Kodiak Robotics , another startup I have reported on since its founding. The company, which is developing self-driving trucks for highway, industrial, and defense uses, began trading on Nasdaq this week under the tickers KDK and KDKRW. In other words, this is not some fixed-route pilot program. Its commercial, and its complex. The deal is notable, and not just because of the fleet size. As Narang explained to me, the trucks will be handling the full regional network for Loblaw. This means these third-generation AV trucks will operate autonomously to pick up products from two distribution centers and make deliveries to over 300 retail stores. These are multiple brands within the Loblaw umbrella, he said. First up is Gatik , an AV and logistics startup that is applying its tech to middle-mile trucks. The startup, which I first wrote about in 2019 , announced a multi-year and expanded commercial partnership with Canadas largest retailer, Loblaw. Under the deal, Gatik will deploy 20 autonomous trucks by the end of 2025 to provide driverless delivery to Loblaws network of stores in the greater Toronto area. Co-founder and CEO Gautam Narang told me the company will add another 30 autonomous trucks to the fleet by the end of 2026. The autonomous vehicle industry is years maybe decades from maturing. And so theres still a Wild West quality to the sector, in spite of the steady stream of announcements that do show marked progress. Two such news items from this week illustrate my point of progress, possibility, and even a bit of peril (at least to the ups and downs a public market can provide). Welcome back to TechCrunch Mobility your central hub for news and insights on the future of transportation. To get this in your inbox, sign up here for free just click TechCrunch Mobility ! Story Continues As you can imagine, building and scaling a transformative autonomous driving company is very capital intensive, and we were looking to access the public markets as a path forward for the company. And when choosing between, you know, traditional IPO or a SPAC, we considered all the options, he said. We felt like, from a timing perspective, it was the right decision for the company (to take the SPAC route). It should be noted that Burnette is also quite bullish on defense. Heres why: I think autonomy is the future of ground transportation broadly, he said, before noting the benefits within defense for logistics and reconnaissance operations for ground vehicles. One of the key things is defense requires unstructured autonomy, and this is one of the areas where we become specialists. A little bird Image Credits:Bryce Durbin A few weeks ago, we wrote about some trouble at Hyundais electric air taxi startup Supernal, including that the company had stopped work on its air taxi program and that its CEO and CTO were out. This week, a little bird told us that a wider reorg of Supernals C-suite was afoot something Hyundai Motor Group has now confirmed to us. Chief strategy officer Jaeyong Song and chief safety officer Tracy Lamb are part of a transition to new leadership, according to the Korean conglomerate. Songs departure is particularly notable, as he was once the VP of Hyundais Advanced Air Mobility division, which Supernal was spun out of in 2021. Also gone is Lina Yang, who most recently served as chief of staff to the startups now-former CEO, but who also served as Supernals Head of Intelligent Systems before that. Got a tip for us? Email Kirsten Korosec at kirsten.korosec@techcrunch.com or my Signal at kkorosec.07, or email Sean OKane at sean.okane@techcrunch.com. Deals! Image Credits:Bryce Durbin Remember Moxion Power, the portable battery startup that raised $110 million before going bankrupt? The founders are back with a new startup called Anode Technology Company, which has designed a mobile battery and inverter that can be used for EV charging and supplying remote power to construction sites and live events. The startup just raised $9 million in seed funding in a round led by Eclipse Ventures; its partner, Jiten Behl, who spearheaded the deal, was previously Rivians chief growth officer. Apparently, Behls interest was sparked by his experience at Rivian. Side note: Palo Alto-based venture capital firm Eclipse sure has been busy this year. The VC firm led the $105 million round of Also, the micromobility startup that spun out of Rivian, and recently hired longtime T. Rowe Price Group investor Joe Fath as partner and head of growth. The firm doesnt explicitly focus on transportation, but some of its portfolio companies in this sector include Arc, Bedrock Robotics, Reliable Robotics, Skyryse, and Wayve. Other deals that got my attention Rapido, a popular ride-hailing platform in India that competes with Uber, doubled its valuation to $2.3 billion following a secondary share sale by food delivery giant Swiggy. The share sale comes just weeks after Rapido began piloting food deliveries, edging into Swiggys core territory. Telo, the tiny electric truck developer, raised $20 million in a Series A funding round co-led by designer and Telo co-founder Yves Behar and Tesla co-founder Marc Tarpenning, who is on Telos board. Additional investment came from Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff and early-stage funds like TO VC, E12 Ventures, and Neo. TheTrump administration is seeking up to a 10% stake in Lithium Americas in exchange for renegotiating the repayment period of a $2.26 billion Department of Energy loan. GM is a major investor in the Canadian company, which is developing a lithium mine in Nevada that is expected to be the largest in the Western Hemisphere. Notable reads and other tidbits Image Credits:Bryce Durbin Hackers have had quite an active week in the transportation sector. Stellantis confirmed a data breach involving customers personal information. The breach is linked to a hack of its Salesforce database. Meanwhile, a hack that began last Friday and targeted check-in systems provided by Collins Aerospace caused delays at Brussels, Berlin, and Dublin airports, as well as Londons Heathrow. The U.K.s National Crime Agency has arrested a man in connection to the ransomware attack. And finally, Jaguar Land Rover said it will not resume production at its factories for yet another week as it continues to grapple with fallout from a cyberattack. Battery materials startup Sila started operations at its facility in Moses Lake, Washington, a milestone that could pave the way for longer-range, faster-charging EVs. The factory is the first large-scale silicon anode factory in the West and will initially be capable of making enough battery materials for 20,000 to 50,000 EVs. Future expansion could fulfill demand for as many as 2.5 million vehicles. Automakers continue to pull back on EVs and electrified vehicles. Honda is ending U.S. production of its Acura ZDX electric vehicle that was being built by General Motors in Tennessee, CNBC reported. And Stellantis has canceled plans to produce a 4xe plug-in hybrid Jeep Gladiator in North America by the end of 2025. Which EV is next on the chopping block? The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration opened an investigation into Rivian over issues with the seat belts in its electric delivery vans that could introduce additional risk in the event of a crash, Bloomberg reported. Tesla asked the Environmental Protection Agency not to roll back current vehicle emissions standards, breaking from other major automakers that want to see the rules eased. TuneIn, an audio streaming service, is collaborating with the Federal Emergency Management Agency to deliver emergency alerts directly to drivers. Volvo Cars is pledging a commitment to U.S. production. The company said it will continue to invest in its U.S. car plant near Charleston, South Carolina, and announced plans to expand the factory to produce a hybrid vehicle by the end of the decade. Waymo launched Waymo for Business, a new service designed for companies to set up accounts so their employees can access robotaxis in cities like Los Angeles, Phoenix, and San Francisco. Zoox has asked federal regulators for an exemption that would allow the Amazon-owned autonomous vehicle company to commercially deploy its custom-built robotaxis, which lack traditional controls like pedals and a steering wheel. One more thing Finally, proof of life from Luminar founder Austin Russell. You may remember that Russell was mysteriously and suddenly replaced in May as CEO of the lidar company he created. The company has never truly explained his departure, only that it was the result of a code of business conduct and ethics inquiry initiated by the board. Russell has been silent; while he remains on Luminars board, he hasnt signed any of the filings the company has submitted with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission since he was replaced. This week, he reappeared as the co-founder of a new company called Russell AI Labs. Its billed as a platform that backs and builds transformative AI and frontier technology companies. It doesnt seem like his troubles at Luminar have affected his ability to attract high-profile support or make eyebrow-raising deals. Russells co-founders are Markus Schafer, CTO and board member at Mercedes-Benz Group AG, and Murtaza Ahmed, who served as a managing director at Goldman Sachs before joining SoftBank and was a partner in the $100 billion Vision Fund and managing partner of its $5 billion Latin America Fund. As part of Russell AI Labs debut, the startup announced it has taken a $300 million stake in agentic AI company Emergence AI. We came across a bullish thesis on TeraWulf Inc. on Investing With Purposes Substack. In this article, we will summarize the bulls thesis on WULF. TeraWulf Inc.'s share was trading at $11.35 as of September 17th. WULFs forward P/E was 29.76 according to Yahoo Finance. Hut 8 (HUT) Sets New Record High on Price Target, Rating Upgrade WULF represents a tangible pivot from cryptocurrency mining to becoming a specialized AI infrastructure landlord, leveraging its power-rich industrial campuses in upstate New York. These sites, originally built for bitcoin mining, offer precisely what AI workloads demand: abundant, low-cost electricity, heavy-duty cooling, and reliable grid access. The company is converting its facilities into liquid-cooled, high-density data centers, where customers bring their own GPUs while WULF provides power, cooling, security, and operations, charging multi-year rent per megawatt with annual escalators. This model shifts WULF from volatile mining revenues to predictable, recurring income, creating a clear path toward positive EBITDA and cash flow once the ramp-up schedule is executed. WULF already has signed tenants, including Core42 and Fluidstack, with first rooms billing in 2025 and a major ramp expected through 2026. A second campus at Cayuga adds optionality for long-term growth. At full run-rate, the leased AI infrastructure could generate roughly $630 million in annual revenue, with site-level margins of 8085%, positioning the company for substantial profitability. Execution is critical: timely commissioning, customer acceptance, and cash build will determine the trajectory, while existing converts and warrants create potential dilution that diminishes as cash inflows improve. The stock currently trades above key moving averages, with technical momentum supporting further upside to $1213 near term and $1516 if the growth cadence holds. Key risks include construction delays, financing mix, and ramp timing. Investors should monitor delivered and billing megawatts, EBITDA/CFO inflection, and balance sheet stabilization. WULFs thesis is simple: turn on the rooms, turn on the rent, and transform from a small-scale miner into a scarce, high-value AI real estate operator with recurring, predictable cash flows. Execution over 2026 is the catalyst for re-rating and long-term value creation. Previously we covered a bullish thesis on IREN Limited (IREN) by Anxious-Criticism652 in May 2025, which highlighted the companys pivot from Bitcoin mining to AI and digital infrastructure, high-margin GPU operations, scalable power capacity, and disciplined balance sheet. The company's stock price has appreciated approximately by 315% since our coverage. The thesis still stands as IRENs hybrid AI/crypto optionality remains compelling. Investing With Purpose shares a similar thesis for TeraWulf Inc., emphasizing the shift from mining to AI infrastructure and recurring rental income from liquid-cooled data centers. Amphenol Corporation (NYSE:APH) is one of the best stocks to invest in right now. On September 23, Truist Financial analyst William Stein reiterated a Buy rating on Amphenol Corporation (NYSE:APH) and set a price target of $123.69. Whats Fueling Wall Streets 90-Day Optimism on Amphenol (APH)? Amphenol Corporation (NYSE:APH) announced on August 18 that it signed a definitive agreement to acquire Trexon for approximately $1 billion in cash, with the transaction subject to customary post-closing adjustments. Management reported that Trexon is anticipated to have 2025 sales and EBITDA margins of approximately $290 million and 26%, respectively. Amphenol Corporation (NYSE:APH) is involved in the design, marketing, and manufacture of electrical, electronic, and fiber optic connectors, antennas, interconnect systems, sensors and sensor-based products, and specialty cable. The companys operations are divided into the following segments: Harsh Environment Solutions, Communications Solutions, and Interconnect and Sensor Systems. While we acknowledge the potential of APH as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If youre looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock. READ NEXT: 30 Stocks That Should Double in 3 Years and 11 Hidden AI Stocks to Buy Right Now. Disclosure: None. This article is originally published at Insider Monkey. We recently compiled a list of the 12 Most Undervalued Dow Stocks to Buy According to Analysts. UnitedHealth Group Incorporated is one of them. UnitedHealth Group Incorporated (NYSE:UNH), a leading U.S. healthcare and insurance provider, serves over 51 million members through its UnitedHealthcare and Optum divisions, offering insurance, pharmacy, and data-driven health services. In September 2025, UNH launched a direct-to-consumer digital platform designed to simplify plan selection and enhance convenience for members, highlighting the companys focus on technology-driven customer solutions. Financially, UnitedHealth Group Incorporated (NYSE:UNH) reported Q2 2025 revenues of nearly $112 billion, a 13% year-over-year increase, with Optum contributing $67.2 billion, up 6.8%. Truist Securities reaffirmed its Buy rating on the stock and raised the price target to $365, citing preliminary data indicating that 78% of members are expected to be enrolled in plans rated four stars or higher for 2027. The corporation reaffirmed its 2025 EPS guidance of at least $16, though integration of its Amedisys acquisition may create short-term earnings pressure. Despite strong performance, UNH faces regulatory and legal challenges, including a criminal investigation into Medicare billing practices. CEO Stephen Hemsley, who resumed leadership in May 2025, is actively engaging with government officials to address policy issues affecting Medicare Advantage plans. Insider stock purchases by directors and Hemsley signal confidence in the companys recovery prospects. UnitedHealth Group Incorporated (UNH) Launches New Digital Platform to Simplify Healthcare Plans Investor interest remains robust. UnitedHealth Group Incorporated (NYSE:UNH) ranked highest among the most popular hedge fund holdings in Q2 2025, and Warren Buffetts Berkshire Hathaway disclosed a $1.57 billion investment, reinforcing confidence in the companys long-term value. While we acknowledge the potential of UNH as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock. READ NEXT: 30 Stocks That Should Double in 3 Years and 11 Hidden AI Stocks to Buy NOW Disclosure: None. If you hold it, it gives you the right kind of diversification in your basket. This has been an increasing message and an increasing story. Its a diversifying hedge, said Joe Cavatoni, senior market strategist at the World Gold Council, a membership organization of the worlds largest mining companies. Theres a way for the metals price to climb higher, Aakash Doshi, head of gold strategy at State Street Investment Management, said in a September note. Its more likely than not that golds price will increase another $500 in the next six months to a year, Doshi wrote. December gold, the most actively traded contract GC00 GCZ25, closed Friday at $3,809 an ounce, up $37.90 or 1% on the day. To be sure, tax bills are far from the only thing to consider if someone wants to add the precious metal to their portfolio. There may be good reasons to own some gold in an economy grappling with uncertainty. Gold is a hedge against bad outlier events, Zambrowski noted. You will have some investors that might underappreciate the tax implications of gold relative to other investments theyve had in their lives, said Ryan Zabrowski, senior portfolio manager at Krilogy, a wealth-management firm with offices in Missouri and Texas. The question is, how many people are weighing IRS regulations or the fine print on investment funds as gold prices move higher? The specialized tax rules apply to the sales of gold bars, or bullion. But even indirect exposure to gold could trigger higher taxes. Major ETFs for the gold market, such as SPDR Gold Shares GLD, warn investors of the chance of steeper taxes in disclosures. Capital gains on gold can be taxed up to 28% when the sale is at least one year after the purchase. Long-term capital gains on stock and bond sales face a 20% maximum. The tax agency deems gold a collectible. As a result, people might pay more taxes on their gold profits than they would on sales of their stocks and bonds potentially a lot more. But while the asset now stands out to investors, it also stands out to the Internal Revenue Service. This year, gold has repeatedly topped itself with record-high prices . Multibillion-dollar inflows to gold ETFs also highlight the metals current glitter. After the gold rush, comes the taxman. Its time for investors to get ready. Story Continues So far this year, investors poured over $57 billion in net inflows to gold ETFs across the globe, according to World Gold Council data. Gold may be staying in the investing picture. There are still ways to gain some portfolio protection and also guard against getting smacked by the metals tax consequences, experts told MarketWatch. Heres how. Gold vs. stocks as the IRS sees it The profit on a stock sale is subject to a capital-gains rate of 0%, 15% or 20%, depending on the rest of the sellers income. The 20% rate applies to households in the mid-six-figure range. For 2025, thats at least $533,401 for individuals and $600,051 for married couples. An extra 3.8% net investment income tax may also apply. This surtax kicks in at incomes of $200,000 for individuals and $250,000 for married couples. Stocks and gold would face the same tax rules if bought and sold within a year. Those are short-term capital gains that would count as ordinary income. Someone speculating on gold prices would probably be facing short-term capital gains, Zabrowski said. But many people use gold as a hedge, he added, and if you are a hedger, you are probably more committed to the longer term. Its the long term where gold and other precious metals stand out in the tax code. Gold, silver and platinum bullion count as a collectible, according to the IRS. It also includes art, rugs, antiques, gems, stamps and coins in its list. Read also: Gold hit a record and silvers at a 14-year high this Wall Street bank says two other commodities will join the party For taxpayers with ordinary income-tax rates below 28%, the collectible tax is their lower ordinary income-tax rate, said Mark Luscombe, principal analyst at Wolters Kluwer Tax & Accounting. The federal tax brackets are 10%, 12%, 22%, 24%, 32%, 35% and 37%. The 28% rate falls between brackets, and its a consideration for people in upper-tier tax brackets, said Andrew Whitehair, a director at Baker Tillys national tax practice. But less wealthy investors could face headaches too. Suppose someone is in the 22% bracket. Theyd face 15% on a stock sale, but their profits on a collectible like gold would be taxed at 22%. Thats a notable difference, Whitehair said. Broadly speaking, if the sale is going to push you into a higher marginal bracket, maybe think about timing that sale to subject it to the lowest marginal rate possible, he said. The gamut of gold exposure The tax bill a person would get from gold depends on the profit amount, the rest of the sellers financial picture, and also the form of the investment. Investors could buy bullion, yet theres the potential for the maximum 28% tax, along with other extra expenses. People who want the metal itself would also have to consider their storage and insurance costs. In all likelihood, theres no deduction for that, said Luscombe. Investment expenses were once an eligible write-off for itemizers, but it hasnt been that way since the first Trump tax cuts of 2017, he noted. If a day trader can show the IRS that gold is their business instead of an investment, the costs of holding bullion might be a deductible business expense. Yet gaining trader tax status with the IRS is no easy feat. Buying certificates from a gold-bullion bank or shares in physically backed gold ETFs would be another possibility, said Luscombe. Yet certificate holders and ETF shareholders are still facing the potential 28%, he added. Owning stock in mining companies would offer indirect gold exposure without any specialized capital-gains rules. Buying and selling shares past one year would trigger the conventional capital gains rates of 0%, 15% and 20%, depending on income. Theres a different twist to watch for when investing in mining companies, said Whitehair at Baker Tilly. Many of these companies have foreign headquarters and their dividends may be subject to taxes in their homeland and U.S. taxes. Often, a foreign tax credit is available to reduce double taxation, Whitehair said. Foreign companies have to meet certain requirements for the IRS to treat their dividends as qualified dividends, gaining the preferential rate of 0%, 15% and 20%, he added. Many of the large foreign gold miners are listed on U.S. stock exchanges or come from countries that have tax treaties with the U.S., so many would likely offer qualified dividends but some may not be, Whitehair said. Gold price action and mining-company stock are not one in the same, Zabrowski noted. With mines across the world potentially operating in unstable places, companies face a range of challenges. Investing in gold-mining stocks would not be a collectible and gains would be subject to regular capital-gains rates, Luscombe wrote. However, the risk analysis for gold-mining stocks would be different than a direct investment in gold. Which account for the gold? Investors have to consider the type of gold exposure they want, and they have to consider which type of account to manage the shiny yellow side of their portfolio. For instance, in a brokerage account, they could buy and sell ETF shares and gain the value of tax-loss harvesting. Thats the tactic of strategic selling at a loss to offset the bite of capital gains. With a retirement account, the IRS typically prohibits people from investing in collectibles through an IRA, Whitehair explained. Gold is one of the exceptions, but it has to be done in specialized gold IRAs that can come with high fees and other considerations. The gold IRAs value would grow tax-deferred, but its distributions would count as ordinary income. Depending on a persons finances, the tax rate on those withdrawals could exceed the rates from regular capital-gains or collectible rates, Luscombe noted. Tax-savvy gold moves The golden key to tax planning is timing, no matter the asset in question. Investors need to consider what else is happening in their lives that could bump them to higher brackets, alongside the extra tax on a gold sale. They also need to weigh how they could build up deductions that offset golds impact. If there is a year in which you do want to sell, then accelerating deductions [or] slowing income could help, said Luscombe. Generally speaking, a self-employed taxpayer may have wiggle room deciding when they are paid. Likewise, seniors might have some leeway on when they are pulling from retirement accounts and from which accounts they are pulling from. Probably the biggest play would be folks in retirement, said Whitehair. A year when they tap more of their aftertax Roth IRA could be a year to sell some more gold, he noted. Deductions might help too, including an itemized deduction for medical expenses. Wage earners have a tighter range of tax-planning options. Employers likely cant just pause paychecks, even if workers wanted to slow their income for tax purposes. For them, gold-plated tax planning could involve tax-loss harvesting if they have capital losses, Whitehair said. Another opportunity is increasing pretax 401(k) contributions in order to lower taxable income. If someone has access to a health savings account, that could also reduce taxable income, he added. At Briaud Financial Advisors, Matthew McKay said client portfolios have about a 12% to 14% allocation to precious metals via ETFs. If a client was charitably inclined and had gold-ETF shares in a brokerage account, they could donate the shares to a donor-advised fund or a charity, said McKay, a portfolio manager and partner at the Texas firm. That would sidestep taxes on the appreciated value and allow for a charitable deduction too. But McKay is generally not recommending a reduction in metal exposure now. Its a long-term hold for clients, he noted, and the firm goes into the investments with eyes open about the tax implications. Given our long-term view, if we are right, the pain of paying the taxes will be greatly reduced, assuming the funds are held outside of retirement, when compared to the gains we have seen and expect to see over the years, McKay said. Most Read from MarketWatch The Karur tragedy has exposed the huge gaps in Vijay's understanding of realpolitik, elections and political administration, asserts N Sathiya Moorthy. IMAGE: Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam Founder Vijay addresses a meeting in Karur, September 28, 2025, before the stampede that killed 39 people. Photograph: TVK/ANI Photo It's sad but true. Actor-politician Vijay's utter lack of experience, ignorance and unwillingness to recruit people with grassroots-level understanding was the major cause for Saturday's tragedy at his Karur rally that has claimed at least 39 lives, including those of children who did not have vote. A simple example. Even as the police and government ambulances rushed to the spot and took the injured to hospitals across the influential yet small-sized agrarian town in western Tamil Nadu, Vijay continued to address the rally after the 'commotion' had died down, and even completed his speech. If only he had men on the ground with organisational authority and responsibilities, and literally so, he would have got early information about the tragedy that was still unfolding before his eyes and acted/reacted accordingly. At the very least, he would have said, 'Sorry' and wound up the rally and requested his cadres to extend whatever help they could to the authorities undertaking life-saving first-aid work. Of course, the question would remain if such a course would have added to the commotion or not. But the very fact that the only information he received while addressing the crowd from his refitted caravan, if that's one, was someone climbing up and requesting him to the earshot of TV viewers that one girl had gone missing and the cadres should help locate her. Vijay did as much immediately, yes, but that's not where it would have stopped if he was surrounded by second-line and local third-line leaders on the vehicles and not bouncers from his film world, where it is fashionable almost overnight across the Indian film industry. IMAGE: An ambulance rushes the injured to hospital at the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam in Karur, September 28, 2025. Photograph: ANI Photo Video Grab Now, where does it all lead to, especially for Vijay's politics and ambitions to win elections? Definitely he was drawing reasonable crowds, supposedly unpaid for by most accounts, but the Karur tragedy has exposed the huge gaps in his understanding of realpolitik, elections and political administration. Already, a section of social media, even while mourning the Karur dead, are planning the questions in the voters' minds as to the suitability of an inexperienced and an 'unwilling learner' for the chief ministerial job or anything close to it. No, their reasons and alleged justification do not flow from this one tragedy, though that may be the clincher as things unfold, post-Karur. In his previous outings at the second TVK conference in Madurai, followed by one in Tiruchi, the police laid down strict conditions for his organising rallies. Vijay, who is the only one allowed to respond to every criticism and also attack his new-found political opponents, called it political vendetta by the DMK government of Chief Minister M K Stalin. In the process, Vijay left that view hanging in the voter's mind just as MGR had successfully done in the case of bete noire then DMK chief minister M Karunanidhi when he broke away from the parent party and founded the AIADMK, way back in 1972, which was a different world that Vijay and his advisors did not understand or accept or both. So even when the Madras high court ticked him off for not following the police directives (which were applicable to all VVIP rallies, too), Vijay stuck to his anti-DMK, anti-Stalin guns. So serious was the issue on the ground that the high court sought from the state government a scheme for seeking a pre-rally deposit from organisers of such events, to compensate for the loss of public property during their rallies and crowd gatherings. It's an impractical proposition by the court, yes, but it also reflected the seriousness of the issue. IMAGE: Thousands gathered at the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam rally in Karur, September 28, 2025, here and below. Photograph: ANI Photo It remains to be seen how the high court views the causes and reasons for the Karur tragedy, and if it would apportion a part of the blame on the state police, for not providing enough security for the rally -- which the crowds began loathing after the leader had come down heavily on the state government, on that very score. The problem was/is that Vijay is surrounded, if at all, by three poll strategists who have never contested any election at any time like the leader, and a former income-tax officer, whose expertise in tax-collection and tax-raids, nothing more. TVK General Secretary N Anand's political past was confined to neighbouring Puducherry, where the dynamics and logistics worked very differently, given the population, electorate and the possible crowds for a leader who rarely appears in public and whose fan following is a legion. Photograph: ANI Photo Video Grab Vijay, who left Karur to neighbouring Tiruchi to fly back to home-base Chennai in his private aircraft, and possibly did not know about the tragedy, or at least the details until later, has since issued a statement, declaring that he was 'heart-broken'. His next moves, both in terms of relief for the affected families and politico-electoral strategy, remains to be seen. Questions are being asked about the wisdom of Vijay choosing just two venues covering three or four districts, so to say, and not travelling across the particular region, so that small crowds, with inexperienced local organisers handling them, would have all found it easy to manage -- so did the dispersed police force, which was under pressure 'not to meddle' with the crowd. It was all in public view when TVK cadres/fans jeered the police and then cheered, when the latter was forced to allow a TVK ambulance loaded with drinking water bottles pass without being diverted for first aid work. IMAGE: The hospital where the injured were brought after the stampede at the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam rally in Karur, September 28, 2025. Photograph: ANI Photo As is the wont with an experienced political administrator, Stalin took remote-charge of the situation from Chennai, directed controversial former minister Senthil Balaji, who is a local and who was in station, to take charge along with the district collector and other officials, also despatched pro-active Health Minister Ma Subramaniam, to Karur without loss of time. The local authorities recalled all off-duty medical professionals attached to the Government Medical College, Karur, and also counterparts from neighbouring districts, to be of help or as a stand-by. According to reports, private hospitals where some injured persons were admitted too rose to the occasion. Local officials advised them not to spare any effort, and bill the state government for all expenses without holding back on any. Yes, these are routine affairs, which when left to the hands of experienced administrators, both political and bureaucratic, have a way of working on the ground. Stalin, not stopping with it, also announced 10 lakhs each to the families of the dead and 1 lakh to those injured. While welcoming the former, there are already social media posts, urging higher compensation for injured victims. As was to be expected under the circumstances, political party leaders, cutting across party lines, have since joined President Draupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi in condoning the deaths. Possibly anticipating that the BJP Centre would not leave it at that and would likely want to 'fix' political responsibility for perceived 'police failure', Stalin has since announced a one-person judicial inquiry by retired high court Justice Aruna Jagadeesan. Earlier, she was the choice of the EPS-led AIADMK government to probe the policefiring at anti-Sterlite protestors in Thoothukudi, in which 13 persons were killed. The final report, presented after the Stalin dispensation took over, was scathing in its criticism of the local police. IMAGE: An injured lady being rushed for treatment after the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam in Karur, September 28, 2025. Photograph: ANI Photo Yet, the real problem is for Vijay and the TVK leadership. First and foremost, he has to run his party as a political party wanting to contest elections should be run. His unwillingness to take along other party leaders, including local persons whose name and face even the local population does not know, and instead surround himself with film world bouncers has made the TVK one-man centric, for the good, bad and ugly things happening around him. Yes, when there are huge crowds for his rallies, the media, however unfriendly to Vijay, otherwise, has projected it as his success and that of none else. The faceless fan association leaders in the neighbourhood of his successive and successful rallies are unknown. So, when negative things like the Karur tragedy occur, he alone has ended up shouldering the blame. Even before Karur, media analysts had suggested openly and obviously without being asked that by travelling to individual districts in a motorcade, Vijay could help in crowd management as fewer fans and voters would gather at individual centres without rushing to a singlevenue. In the case of the Karur venue, post-tragedy leaks of the TVK's request for police permission clearly stated that they were expecting 10,000 fans (that could comfortably fit into an arena that could accommodate 15,000). But the final figure is now put at variously between 30,000 and 50,000. Either the local TVK organisers did not know, or did not care seriously about crowd management. Of course, the government will have to explain if it had prior Intelligence input about the kind of crowd that could gather and about the crowd management arrangements by the local police. IMAGE: A lady injured in the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam rally in Karur, September 28, 2025, being treated in hospital. Photograph: ANI Photo Already questions are beginning to be asked about the kind of talent Vijay has around him to run a government and have an efficient set of ministers, with some special talents that are transparent to the voter's eyes. In the coming days, his critics, especially from among YouTube journalists, are sure to expose and exploit this lacuna in his politico-electoral armour. All at once, Vijay's calculated yet delayed attack on the AIADMK ally of the BJP, which is his 'ideological enemy' like the DMK being the 'political adversary', has been completely sidelined. Until he made that reference at neighbouring Namakkal before his Karur appearance, rumours had it that both Vijay and EPS were keeping their alliance options open, sans the BJP. For the medium and long terms, the propagated and whispered belief is that Vijay wants to run a water-tight administration like that of Jayalalithaa and maybe MGR, and less like those of Karunanidhi and his son Stalin, the incumbent chief minister. In fact, over the past two years-plus, Stalin's critics, especially in the BJP/AIADMK social media have been taunting him as being 'inefficient and ineffective'. In comparison, now after the Karur tragedy, the AIADMK-BJP alliance is sure to project AIADMK leader Edappadi K Palanispawamy as the best of the lot as far as administrative efficiency among the present crop of political leaders in the state. The DMK, though possibly on the defensive, would spread the word that it is better to be a Stalin than a Vijay. Whether or not this argument helps retain the generally anti-establishment/anti-incumbency voters, who were against the AIADMK and the BJP in three elections since 2019, two of them barring 2014 as allies, this segment may have second thoughts before choosing Vijay for their new mascot and leader, who represented 'change' in a complex politico-electoral web. IMAGE: Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam leader Vijay addresses the rally in Karur, September 28, 2025. Photograph: ANI Photo Unthinking and inadequately advised as he has been, Vijay has lost the huge political advantage that his three rallies in quick week-end sessions had helped him win. Instead, in its place, his style of weekend politics is sure to come up for greater and sharper criticism, with both political and media opponents telling the voters, how the state needed a full-time chief minister, and not a week-end CM, or a CM who works a five-day week and may take two days' off like all government servants. As coincidence would have it, Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin, the DMK's heir-apparent, had taunted Vijay on this score,only hours before the Karur tragedy struck. He was only responding to Vijay criticising him on the one hand elsewhere, and also the DMK's controversial Senthil Balaji in his Karur rally speech without naming the latter. In this background, the question is not how will the divided Opposition hope to exploit the Karur tragedy against Vijay and TVK. Instead, it is about who will bell the cat, when, how and how far. And if and how Vijay responds especially if the higher judiciary or the state/central human rights commissions are also going to take cognisance. N Sathiya Moorthy, veteran journalist and author, is a Chennai-based policy analyst and political commentator. 'Vijay should have stayed there for the night and in the morning he should have met the people.' IMAGE: Thousands gathered at the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam rally in Karur, September 28, 2025. Photograph: ANI Photo Tamil movie superstar Vijay could not have expected the script to go so wrong for his political debut. His pre-election rallies have been drawing mammoth crowds, and the campaign in Karur on Saturday, September 27, 2025, night was expected to go along similar lines. But neither he nor his party the Tamizhaga Vettri Kazhagam, had factored in the flipside to huge crowds gathering at one spot -- stampede. In the melee that overtook his Karur rally some 40 people had been killed and many more were injured. Vijay was forced to postpone his political outreach and has since returned to Chennai. Could the tragedy have been avoided? What should Vijay have done to prevent it? A senior media professional, who was in Karur to cover the event, spoke to Saisuresh Sivaswamy/Rediff on how the stampede can scuttle Vijay's political prospects. Can you describe what happened in Karur on Saturday night? Nobody is able to understand clearly what happened, they are not in a position to comment on what happened, like there is complete disbelief because they were celebrating and rejoicing till evening and within 2-3 hours everything changed actually. So, they are not finding anyone to blame, but they are also not finding anyone to take responsibility, they are just mourning. People are just mourning. But people with a political background, they are raising some valid questions like why it took so much time for this actor to reach the venue. Because, he was supposed to complete it before 2 pm, but he came there by around 7 pm. So for 6, 7 hours people have been waiting there, and shops over there had already closed. Nothing was there. So what happened was that people didn't have enough water, they didn't take food, and were still waiting for him to come. They started to faint one after another. They lost whatever they had, everything was lost in that 5-6 hours. The problem is beyond this crowd, in the particular area where people waited, there was another batch of crowds that was coming to the venue. Altogether the road is wide enough to handle four lanes, the road where the venue is located is a four-lane road with a central median. We cannot say that is a narrow road, actually. It is a state-run highway connecting Erode and Karur districts. It is a very busy highway, actually. A developing area, on the outskirts of the core Karur city. IMAGE: Mourning relatives of a stampede victim at a hospital in Karur, September 28, 2025. Photograph: ANI/X Questions are being raised as to why it took so much time for Vijay. The police was there, the police first couldn't do anything because the crowds must have been well above 30,000 strong, up to 50,000, although estimates say there were 70,000-80,000 people but they are not sure what the numbers were. But they expected only around 10,000 to 15,000 people to turn up. But the number was almost two- or three-fold over what was expected. Karur is a kind of landlocked city. It is completely surrounded by several districts, and is an industrial area. They are not accustomed to these star shows and frenzied crowds. So they took the opportunity to have some fun, some of them had come on weekend leave also. They didn't expect it. Even TVK also, they didn't expect this. This was the situation in all his campaigns, whether Trichy, Nagapattinam, so they didn't expect it to go south like this in Karur. Could the tragedy have been prevented? Certainly. I am not sure whether TVK is taking inputs from the local people, local functionaries. Because they would have been in a better position to assess what could be done because these people who are coming from Chennai may not know if this road can accommodate these many people. Something should have been done there. The second level leaders should have apprised Vijay to complete the campaign as early as possible. It took so long for him to reach the venue from Karur town itself. Someone should have told him the situation is going out of control. In their best interests he should complete it as soon as possible. But that didn't happen. AIADMK leader Edappadi K Palaniswami says the police is to blame. True? Naturally as an Opposition leader he has blamed the police, saying they are behaving in a biased manner by allotting venues and time for political parties and ruling alliance against the Opposition. He also says not adequate police was there. We cannot say adequate police was not there because there were at least 30,000 people, what number could be adequate for them? Nobody is listening to what the people have been advised to do, they were told that they should not climb tall buildings and trees, but no one is listening. Even ambulances were stopped and drivers were roughed up. People were in a total frenzy there. They were just celebrating and enjoying the event and didn't expect it would go this way. Is Vijay to be blamed? Is there any cause for it? Definitely. He was the one reason why so many people gathered there. There is no reason for them to align politically or electorally. They wanted to see him, that's all. It was the reason why people were there. Of course he has to take the blame. He should have stayed there for the night and in the morning he should have met the people or at least have answered the questions of the media. Instead he just fled the scene, he left for the airport in a rush. Within three hours of the stampede he left Trichy. IMAGE: The hospital where the injured were brought after the stampede at the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam rally in Karur, September 28, 2025. Photograph: ANI Photo What should Vijay do at his future rallies? Will they see such turnout, too? At least he should have spoken to the media in Trichy in case Karur was not an ideal venue. He should have either apologised instead of putting out a statement on social media. He could have spoken directly to the people, or the media. Appealed to them, say what was the problem there, what he thinks could have been done to avoid the tragedy. He has presently postponed all his campaigns. Even if two weeks or one month later also he announces a similar campaign, I don't think people would be scared to attend it. People will still come. People will forget and will come and he will also plan it, I think. But this is definitely a black spot, I don't think if he will be in a position to take a decision at this moment or in a week. It may take some time. Will this tragedy affect his political future? Definitely. People were not aligned with him or against him so far have taken a stand now. They are blaming him, his people and his fans. So there is a kind of aversion for what Vijay's fans are doing. It will certainly affect him. Vijay's political opponents must be happy over his discomfiture, don't you think? I won't say they are happy but they are waiting for an opportunity. None of them have openly criticised him except for Seeman of the Naam Tamizhar Katchi. No other party has openly criticised him, not even the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam. They took a soft stand, they don't want to blame anyone now, they are focused on saving the people and giving them solatium. But other parties like the AIADMK have partially blamed him without naming him. Others like the BJP are not doing that also. The huge turnout at his rallies must be worrying the other parties? Maybe. But these are not mobilised crowds, these are spontaneous crowds. They are not being brought to the spot in vehicles, mass mobilisation is not happening there. That is not happening. All of them were spontaneously visiting the place. Most of them, around 20%-25% of them don't have votes, being underage. To an extent other parties are worried, they all want to showcase their strength, the DMK, AIADMK and others. They don't want to be underestimated in comparison to these crowds. So yes, worrying is happening, other parties are being worried. Importantly for Vijay, can these numbers at his rallies turn into votes? That is a very huge doubt because, what we see here in Karur is, not just Karur people are here but people from other districts also have come. So when we say some 5,000 votes across coming together in Karur and one spot, we can't then say in Karur they will get 5,000 votes. The votes are spread actually. While mobilisation is not happening, people are coming from other districts. That means there is some decent relationship -- not particular to one constituency or one district but people from other constituencies are coming, maybe to an extent it may turn into votes. Based on my interactions it may turn, but we cannot say for sure that all this crowd, 100% of them, will be converted into votes. We cannot say that. People outside the state are unable to fathom why Tamil Nadu is so film-star crazy. Do you have an explanation for this phenomenon? You will have to look back at our history. You see the DMK, AIADMK all of them have some affiliation to the cine industry. Kalaignar Karunanidhi, C N Annadurai, M G Ramachandran, Jayalalithaa -- most of the chief ministers were involved with films. Even M K Stalin has acted in a few films but he is not a full-fledged actor or cine field guy but other CMs played a huge role as screen writer, actor, so for mobilisation to attract the masses it was a huge tool. Even stage plays, that was also a huge factor. This is deep-rooted, it was the same with Andhra Pradesh, and to a lesser extent with Karnataka but not with Kerala. Other states may see it as very odd, but here it's usual, it's deep-rooted, and has been happening for almost 75 years. Three Maoists carrying a cumulative bounty of Rs 14 lakh were killed in an encounter with security personnel in Chhattisgarh's Kanker district on Sunday, a senior police official said. IMAGE: Security personnel during an anti-Maoist operation in Bastar, Chhattisgarh. Photograph: ANI on X The gun battle took place on a forested hill near Chhindkhadak village along the border of Kanker and Gariaband districts, where a joint team of security personnel was out on an anti-Maoist operation in the morning, Kanker Superintendent of Police Indira Kalyan Elesela told PTI. Personnel belonging to the District Reserve Guard, a unit of the state police, from Kanker and Gariaband, and the Border Security Force (BSF) were involved in the operation, he said. Bodies of three Maoists, including a woman cadre, were recovered from the site, along with a self-loading rifle (SLR), a .303 rifle, a 12-bore gun and other Naxalite-related materials, the SP said. Prima facie, the deceased were identified as Sarvan Madkam alias Vishwanath, the secretary of Sitanadi/Ravas area committee of Maoists, Rajesh alias Rakesh Hemla, an area committee member of Nagari area committee, and Basanti Kunkjam alias Hidme, a member of the protection team Mainpur-Nuapada, he said. The official said that Madkam and Hemla carried a bounty of Rs 8 lakh and Rs 5 lakh respectively, while Kunjam had a reward of Rs 1 lakh. Inspector general of police, Bastar Range, Sundarraj P, said that despite the challenging geographical conditions and harsh weather, the police and security forces deployed in the region have been working with complete dedication to protect life and property, in accordance with the wishes of the government and people. He appealed to Maoist cadres to accept the reality that Maoism was on the verge of extinction. Now is the time for them to abandon the path of violence and join the mainstream by taking advantage of the government's rehabilitation policy, the senior official said. If they continue illegal and violent activities, they will face severe consequences, he added. With the latest action, 252 Naxalites have been gunned down in separate encounters in Chhattisgarh so far this year. Of them, 223 were eliminated in the Bastar division, comprising seven districts, including Kanker, while 27 were killed in Gariaband, which falls in the Raipur division. Two other Maoists were killed in Mohla-Manpur-Ambagarh Chowki district in Durg division. On September 22, top cadres, Raju Dada alias Katta Ramachandra Reddy (63) and Kosa Dada alias Kadari Satyanarayana Reddy (67), both Central Committee members of the outlawed Communist Party of India (Maoists), were killed in an encounter in Narayanpur district, the police said. Heightened security, heavy police patrolling and flag marches to restore normalcy -- these were scenes from Bareilly on Sunday, a day after 39 people, including local cleric Tauqeer Raza Khan, were arrested following overnight house-to-house raids in connection with the recent violence during a protest supporting the 'I love Muhammad' campaign. IMAGE: Policemen try to control the situation after people stage a protest after the Friday prayers over the 'I love Mohammad' row, in Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh, September 26, 2025. Photograph: ANI Photo The cleric's arrest on Saturday prompted administrations in neighbouring districts to go on high alert. Raza's arrest followed a day of tension in Bareilly, where a large crowd carrying 'I Love Muhammad' posters clashed with the police outside a mosque in the Kotwali area after Friday prayers. The crowd was reportedly angry over the cancellation of a proposed demonstration called by Raza, the founder of Ittehad-e-Millat Council, who claimed the authorities denied permission for it. Ten cases have been filed against 180 named and 2,500 unidentified "rioters", including Raza, under various sections for inciting violence, vandalism, rioting, stone-pelting and hurting religious sentiments at various police stations across the city, including Kotwali, Premnagar, Baradari, Cantt, and Quila, officials said. Overnight house-to-house raids were carried out to nab the culprits, they said. The neighbouring districts, including Rampur, Pilibhit, Shahjahanpur, Moradabad, Badaun, Sambhal, Bijnor, Amroha, and Fatehgarh, have been put on high alert by their administrations, starting Sunday. These districts reportedly house a large number of Raza's supporters. Bareilly itself remains an effective garrison, with internet services suspended for 48 hours and the area around the highly sensitive Dargah-e-Ala Hazrat turned into a security fortress. Senior officials, including ADG Ramit Sharma, Divisional Commissioner Bhupendra S. Chaudhary, DIG Ajay Sahni, DM Avinash Singh, SSP Anurag Arya, SP City Manush Pareek, and SP South Anshika Verma, visited the highly sensitive zones on Sunday to closely monitor law and order and security arrangements. Special police teams are working to arrest the remaining "rioters" involved in the clashes, the officials said. On Saturday night, SP City Manush Pareek led a targeted drive to arrest individuals involved in stone-pelting and firing. Strict interrogation of those detained is ongoing, they said. They said that the police are currently maintaining full vigilance on all possible scenarios. The massive crackdown follows Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's strong warning that those inciting violence in the name of faith will face severe consequences. "The main conspirator of the Bareilly unrest, Maulana Tauqeer Raza, along with seven others, have been arrested, produced in court, and sent to a 14-day judicial custody," district magistrate Avinash Singh said while addressing a press conference along with senior superintendent of police Anurag Arya on Saturday. The seven other accused have been identified as Sarfaraz, Manifuddin, Azeem Ahmed, Mohammed Sharif, Mohammed Aamir, Rehan and Mohammad Sarfaraz, police said. "The police arrested 39 rioters from Friday night to Saturday," Arya said. Raza and the seven co-accused were produced in court on Saturday and sent to 14 days of judicial custody, with Raza later shifted to Fatehgarh Central Jail. A Delhi court on Sunday remanded Chaitanyananda Saraswati, a self-styled godman and a sexual harassment accused, to five days' police custody for questioning. IMAGE: KSelf-styled godman Chaitanyananda Saraswati was nabbed from Agra. Photograph: ANI on X The order was announced by Duty Magistrate Ravi. Saraswati, 62, accused of sexually harassing 17 women students at a private institute here, was apprehended from a hotel in Agra Sunday morning. He was produced before the judge at 3.40 pm. During the arguments, the prosecution alleged that Saraswati had molested several women and sought sexual favours from them and that the testimonies of the victims had corroborated the allegations. "He had given them threats. (CCTV) Cameras were installed to monitor their movement some were installed in bathrooms. Around 16 girls have complained. Several other allegations need to be verified," the prosecution alleged. The counsel for the accused countered the plea for custodial interrogation, saying all "16-20 women" women had already recorded their statements. "You have already taken my phones, one iPad, and my luggage. I am diabetic, having anxiety issues, whose monk's robes have been taken away." "I am not allowed to wear my robes. You want police custody only to harass me. In case you feel there is any threat (to the women), that can be countered by taking me in judicial custody," the counsel pleaded. The advocate appearing for the complainant said police custody was required as the accused needed to be confronted with the statements of victims, digital, and other pieces of evidence. The prosecution was using "hollow words," the defence counsel retorted. The complainant's advocate said, "One witness has categorically stated that she would be picked up if she dared to complain. Investigation, which is at a nascent stage, runs the risk of being tampered with. Another FIR has been registered for the offence of cheating, where the accused's anticipatory bail has been rejected." The advocate continued, "This is the first time he has joined the investigation in two months. Accused is not cooperating with the investigation. He has not given passwords of his iPad and iCloud. Mere seizure is not enough." The defence counsel said that his client's conduct had nothing to do with the plea seeking police custody. "They have data of around 40 CCTV cameras. They have to show a requirement for police custody," he said. The police have frozen Rs 8 crore parked in multiple bank accounts and fixed deposits linked to Saraswati. According to the FIR, Saraswati, a former chairman of a management institute in southwest Delhi, allegedly forced female students to visit his quarter late at night, and sent them inappropriate text messages at odd hours. He allegedly kept track of the students' movements through his phone. During the investigation, it was revealed that he allegedly used different names and particulars to operate multiple bank accounts and withdrew over Rs 50 lakh after the FIR was registered against him. Saraswati allegedly submitted documents with varying particulars at the time of account opening. Police also found fake visiting cards from him, showing his association with the United Nations and BRICS. Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin on Sunday said the Commission led by retired judge Aruna Jagadeesan would arrive in Karur later in the day to probe the stampede incident. IMAGE: The mourning relatives of a stampede victim at a hospital in Karur, Tamil Nadu, September 28, 2025. Photograph: ANI on X He said Chief Minister MK Stalin would take appropriate action based on the report submitted by the panel. Udhayanidhi, who cut short his overseas trip, paid homage to the deceased and visited the injured at a hospital in Karur. He was accompanied by Cabinet colleagues, including health minister Ma Subramanian. "The Commission will speak to the affected individuals and submit its report. Based on its recommendations, the Chief Minister will take suitable action," Udhayanidhi told reporters. The Deputy CM said over 345 doctors and nurses from neighbouring districts have been deployed to treat the injured. Expressing anguish over the tragedy, he said the government would extend full support to the victims. "The government will take action to ensure that such incidents do not recur in future," he said. As many as 38 people lost their lives in a stampede at actor-politician and TVK chief Vijay's public rally in Karur on September 27. Meanwhile, Udhayanidhi Stalin reviewed the treatment being provided to those injured at the government hospital in the district. In a social media post on Sunday, the Deputy CM said he also sought details of those receiving treatment at other hospitals. The review meeting was held in the presence of Health Minister Ma Subramanian, former state minister Senthil Balaji, and senior officials from the health department. "I have issued orders to ensure that every individual receives special care and quality treatment for the injuries sustained (due to the stampede)" he said. Key Points Realty Income is the largest net lease real estate investment trust. Although it focuses on owning retail properties, it has a very diversified portfolio. Given the company's size, continued diversification is likely to be a key theme over the next years. 10 stocks we like better than Realty Income Realty Income (NYSE: O) has a lofty 5.4% or so dividend yield. That's well above the 1.2% of the S&P 500 index and the nearly 3.8% average for the real estate investment trust (REIT) sector. But before you run out and buy this high-yield REIT, here's a look at what is likely to happen to the business over the next five years. Image source: Getty Images. What does Realty Income do? Realty Income is what is called a net lease REIT. That means that it owns largely single tenant properties in which the tenant is responsible for most property-level operating costs. This is a great deal for both parties, in what is usually best thought of as a financing transaction. Essentially, the property seller wants to raise cash for other purposes, like capital investments or expanding its business footprint. It enters a sale/leaseback deal with Realty Income using a net lease structure. That allows it to raise the capital it needs while still retaining effective control of the property. Realty Income gets a reliable tenant that's happy to sign a long-term lease that will normally include regular rent bumps. It's a win/win. Although any single property is high risk, given there's only one tenant, across a large enough portfolio the risk is fairly low. Realty Income is the largest net lease REIT by far, and its market cap of $54 billion is multiple times larger than its next closest peer. It also happens to own more than 15,600 properties. While there are benefits to being so large, there's also one very notable negative. Realty Income is a slow-growing business because it takes huge transaction volume to move the needle on the top and bottom lines. What happened and will continue to happen Realty Income is not ignorant to the size issue it faces. And for many years, it has been working to find new avenues for growth. The first big move was to expand its geographic reach into Europe. Then it started to add different property types to the mix, including casinos and data centers. More recently, it has begun making debt investments and built an asset management business meant to serve institutional investors. The goal is simple. Given the REIT's size, it has to have as many levers to pull for growth as it can possibly muster. All of these efforts may not play out as expected, but that's OK. The goal is to find a way to keep growing the business and trying multiple approaches will likely yield some attractive options. The ones that I expect to work the best over the next five years are international expansion, data centers, and asset management. India exercised its right to defend its people against terrorism and brought perpetrators of the Pahalgam terror attack to justice, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said on Saturday, describing Pakistan as the epicentre of global terrorism. IMAGE: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar addresses at the General Debate of the 80th session of the UN General Assembly. Photograph: @DrSJaishankar/X In his address to the General Debate of the 80th session of the UN General Assembly, Jaishankar delivered a strong message against terrorism, warning that those who condone nations that sponsor terror will find that it comes back to "bite them". He said that while asserting our rights, we must also firmly face up to threats, and added that countering terrorism is a particular priority because it "synthesises bigotry, violence, intolerance and fear". Jaishankar, who began his address to world leaders from the UNGA podium with the salutation Namaskar from the people of Bharat, said, "India has confronted this challenge since independence, having a neighbour that is an epicentre of global terrorism." While Jaishankar did not name Pakistan, reference to the country was loud and clear when he said that "for decades now, major international terrorist attacks are traced back to that one country." He added that the UN's designated lists of terrorists are replete with the country's nationals. The most recent example of cross-border barbarism was the murder of innocent tourists in Pahalgam in April this year. India exercised its right to defend its people against terrorism and brought its organisers and perpetrators to justice, he said. India had launched Operation Sindoor targeting terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir in retaliation for the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 civilians and for which The Resistance Front (TRF), a front for Pakistan-based terrorist group Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), had claimed responsibility. WATCH: Jaishankar slams Pakistan at UNGA On Friday, exercising its Right of Reply to Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's address to the UNGA, India said, Till May 9, Pakistan was threatening more attacks on India. But on May 10, its military pleaded with us directly for a cessation to the fighting. The intervening event was the destruction caused to multiple Pakistani airbases by Indian forces. In his address, Jaishankar warned that those who condone nations that sponsor terror will find that it "comes back to bite them". Underlining that terrorism is a shared threat, he called for deeper international cooperation. When nations openly declare terrorism as state policy, when terror hubs operate on an industrial scale, when terrorists are publicly glorified, then such actions must be unequivocally condemned," he said. "The financing of terrorism must be choked, even as prominent terrorists are sanctioned. Relentless pressure must be applied on the entire terrorism eco-system, he added. The external affairs minister told world leaders from the UNGA podium that "Bharat approaches the contemporary world, guided by three key concepts of Atmanirbharta' or self-reliance, Atmaraksha' or securing oneself, and Atmavishwas' or self-confidence." We remain determined to protect our people and secure their interests, at home and abroad. That means zero-tolerance for terrorism, robust defence of our borders, forging partnerships beyond and assisting our community abroad, he said. A senior citizen in his 70s said he has never seen so many people getting killed in a stampede at a political party's event and blamed the youths for their anxiety to somehow take a look at the actor. IMAGE: A large number of footwears strewn around the stampede site in Tamil Nadu's Karur. Photograph: ANI on X Mounds of shoes and chappals, crushed water bottles, torn party flags, pieces of clothes, broken poles, shreds of paper sprayed from party poppers and striking garbage of sorts. As early morning walkers and people who ventured out to buy milk and essentials crossed the venue of the mega rally -- an arterial road-- addressed by TVK chief Vijay, they could not make sense of what had happened on the previous night. Several people, who went to sleep early or did not listen to news were shocked that as many as 38 people were killed and dozens injured. While some videographers were filming the spot of the stampede, now barricaded by 'Police-Do Not Cross' kind of lengthy tapes and blocked to public, groups of elderly men enquired with photo-journalists present there in disbelief about the stampede. While a TVK flag still flutters atop a highrise pole at the spot and oversized-speaker boxes and mega lights lying unattended amid a huge pile of torn party publicity material like posters, TVK workers and office-bearers do not wish to say anything about what went wrong in their plan. A young man, who was among the crowd at the stampede spot, and who managed to safely get out of that spot after much struggle claimed that several people were pushed to a 'low-lying sewerage' close to the road margin as many tried to get out at the same time. He regretted that what began as a 'celebration time' to hail their beloved matinee idol ended in tragedy. "As fans were chanting Vijay's name, several did not realize that it was a stampede and that people fell down. Many who happened to place their legs on people who fell down also got tripped and fell," he told reporters. Several people had their own claims about the cause for stampede and it is not clear what went wrong; whether it was the choice of the venue or overcrowding, which is being witnessed ever since Vijay launched his state-wide tour on September 13. At the venue, people pushed away tin sheets used to barricade and make enclosure kind of spaces and many who climbed on to thatched roof structures nearby fell down and sustained injuries. Almost at the same time, police baton-charged to control the situation. However, people, including children, who were caught in the crowd and fell down, could not comprehend what was happening. A senior citizen in his 70s said he has never seen so many people getting killed in a stampede at a political party's event and blamed the youths for their anxiety to somehow take a look at the actor. Staff at the Karur government hospital themselves were rattled by the unceasing siren of ambulances bringing injured people and policemen pitched in by carrying the victims to the treatment ward. Families that lost their children could not just believe that they had lost their loved little ones and were inconsolable. The visuals of young men and women crying by holding his motionless children shook hearts. According to the government, 38 persons have died. They were 12 men, 16 women and 10 children. At the mortuary, kin of the deceased wailed through the night and the sound of the piercing sobs could be heard from the afar, even close to the entrance of the premises. Also, police repeated lathi-charge nearly an hour following the stampede to chase away the remaining crowds from the venue. Following the stampede, Vijay left the venue and did not meet reporters waiting at Tiruchirappalli and Chennai airports. "My heart has broken, I am in unbearable, inexplicable pain and grief, " he said in a social media post. The actor added that he prayed for speedy recovery of those being treated in hospitals. He extended his sympathies to the families of "my dear brothers and sisters killed in Karur." Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin rushed from Chennai to Karur and interacted with doctors on the treatment being provided to the affected people and comforted them, and assured them of best care. The CM reached Karur from Chennai past midnight. Authorities announced helpline numbers to reach the Karur district collect office helpdesk (04324 256306 and Whatsapp 7010806322). Hours after a stampede left 36 persons, including children, dead in his party rally in Karur, TVK founder and actor Vijay on Saturday said he was in "unbearable pain" following the incident. IMAGE: TVK chief and actor Vijay greets gathering before stampede during a public event in Karur. Photograph: TVK/ANI Photo Vijay, who did not meet the waiting media at Tiruchirappalli and Chennai airports following the stampede, took to 'X' to respond to the fatal incident. "My heart has broken, I am in unbearable, inexplicable pain and grief, " he said. The actor added he prayed for speedy recovery of those being treated in hospitals. He extended his sympathies to the families of "my dear brothers and sisters killed in Karur." "I'm not even asking what is going to happen to our trade relations or oil? I don't ask our Indian colleagues this. They are perfectly capable of making these decisions for themselves," says Russian FM Lavrov IMAGE: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar meets Russia Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, reviews bilateral cooperation and global developments, in Tianjin, July 15, 2025. Photograph: @DrSJaishankar X/ANI Photo Russia fully respects India's national interests and the independent foreign policy being pursued by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has said, asserting that India's ties with the US or any other country cannot be a benchmark for New Delhi-Moscow ties. Lavrov, who addressed the UN General Assembly shortly before External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar's speech at the high-level General Debate, said India and Russia share a "particularly privileged strategic partnership". These situations that might arise between India and the United States or India and any other country, I can't consider them a criteria for relations between India and Russia, he said at a press conference here on Saturday. Lavrov was responding to a question on India's continued imports of Russian oil despite US pressure on countries to reduce such purchases, and how Moscow views its ties with New Delhi in this context. "We have full respect for the national interests of India, full respect for the foreign policy that (Prime Minister) Narendra Modi is carrying out to promote these national interests, he said, noting that India and Russia maintain regular high-level contacts. Lavrov cited the recent meeting between PM Modi and President Vladimir Putin at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in China. He added that President Putin is expected to visit New Delhi in December. We have a very extensive bilateral agenda -- trade, military, technical cooperation, finance, humanitarian matters, healthcare, high tech, artificial intelligence -- and of course, close coordination at the international level, within the SCO, BRICS and bilaterally, the Russian leader said. Lavrov had met with Jaishankar for bilateral discussions on the margins of the 80th session of the UNGA and had also participated in the annual meeting of the BRICS Ministers of Foreign Affairs/International Relations, chaired by India in its capacity as the incoming Chair for 2026. Lavrov spoke about bilateral visits and regular exchanges between him and Jaishankar. "I'm not even asking what is going to happen to our trade relations or oil? I don't ask our Indian colleagues this. They are perfectly capable of making these decisions for themselves," he said. Referring to Jaishankar's remarks on oil imports, Lavrov said the external affairs minister had clearly stated that if the "US wants to sell its oil to us, we are prepared to discuss the terms for this, but what we buy from other countries, not the United States, but from Russia or other countries, that's our own business, and that has nothing to do with the Indian-US agenda. That is a very worthy response, he said, adding that it shows that India, like Turkiye, has self-respect. In response to another question, Lavrov stressed that the economic partnership between Russia and India is secure. There is no threat to this relationship. And if somebody does do something of that nature, the Indian Prime Minister, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, have said it loud and clear, India chooses its own partners," he said. If the US has proposals on how to enrich bilateral trade between the US and India, they are prepared to discuss the terms for that, whatever terms the US might put forth." "But when it comes to trade, investment, economic, military, technological and other relations between India and third states, it is something that India will discuss only with those states in question, Lavrov said. The Trump administration has imposed 50 percent tariffs on India, including 25 per cent for its purchases of Russian oil, with New Delhi facing among the highest levies imposed by Washington. The Trump administration has imposed an additional 25 per cent tariff on India as a penalty for its purchases of Russian oil, taking the total levies imposed on the country by the US to 50 per cent, among the highest in the world. India has been maintaining that its energy procurement is driven by national interest and market dynamics. Earlier, Jaishankar had posted on X about his meeting with Lavrov: Good conversation with FM Sergey Lavrov of Russia on the sidelines of #UNGA80. Useful discussion on bilateral ties, the Ukraine conflict and developments in the Middle East. Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday rejected the ceasefire offer given by Maoists, saying if the extremists want to surrender and lay down arms, they are most welcome to do so and security forces would not fire a single bullet on them. IMAGE: Union Minister for Home Affairs and Cooperation, Amit Shah addresses the valedictory session of Bharat Manthan-2025: Naxal Mukt BharatEnding Red Terror Under Modis Leadership, in New Delhi, September 28, 2025. Photograph: PIB/ANI Photo This is the first time that a top central government functionary has reacted to the ceasefire offer given by the Maoists about a fortnight ago. "Recently, to spread confusion, a letter was written stating that what has happened so far has been a mistake, that a ceasefire should be declared, and that we (Maoists) want to surrender. I want to say there will be no ceasefire. If you want to surrender, there is no need for a ceasefire. Lay down your arms, not a single bullet will be fired", Shah said. He said if the Maoists want to surrender, a red carpet welcome awaits them with a "lucrative" rehabilitation policy. Addressing the valedictory session of a seminar on 'Maoist Mukt Bharat', Shah also hit out at Left parties for extending ideological support to the Left Wing Extremism and dismissed their arguments that lack of development led to the Maoist violence. He said it was due to the "red terror" that development could not reach many parts of the country for several decades. "I want to tell you that there will be no ceasefire. If you want to surrender, lay down arms and not a single bullet will be fired. A red carpet welcome awaits you if you surrender," he said. Shah said this in response to the offer of a ceasefire given by the Communist Party of India-Maoists following the intensified operations carried out by security forces, including Operation Black Forest along the Chhattisgarh-Telangana border, in which several top Maoists were eliminated. The home minister said there are many people who believe that merely stopping the killings by Maoists is enough to eradicate Maoism from India. However, he said, this is not true as Maoism developed in India because its ideology was nurtured by people within the society. "Why did the Maoist problem arise, grow and develop in the country? Who provided them with ideological support? Until Indian society understands this, the idea of Naxalism and the people in society who provided ideological support, legal support, and financial support, the fight against Maoism will not end," he said, adding, "We must identify and understand those who continue to nurture the Maoist ideology". Shah asserted that the country will be free of Maoism by March 31, 2026. The home minister said those who hold weapons are not concerned about the tribals. Instead, they are worried about keeping alive the Leftist ideology that has already been rejected across the world. "They wrote letters and issued press notes demanding that Operation Black Forest be immediately stopped. The CPI (Communist Party of India) and CPI-M (Communist Party of India-Marxist) did. Why do they need to protect them? Why don't all these Maoist sympathiser NGOs come forward to protect the human rights of tribal victims?" he asked. Shah said the Left parties maintain silence on Maoist violence, but when 'Operation Black Forest' was carried out to eliminate the Maoists, they started talking about human rights. He also said that the Maoist violence was at its peak when the Left parties were not in power in West Bengal, but started to decline after the Left parties assumed power in the 1970s. He said that the "Pashupati to Tirupati" was known in government documents by the name of "red corridor" and a population of about 12 crore was living under the shadow of Naxal violence. "Approximately 10 percent of the population at that time was suffering the brunt of Maoism," he said. Paying tributes to those who lost their lives and loved ones in LWE violence since the 1960s, the home minister said when the Maoists now "chant from Pashupatinath to Tirupati, people laugh at them". Referring to Jammu and Kashmir, Shah said Article 370 was abolished under a well-thought-out policy against Pakistan-sponsored terrorism. "I want to share its results. There has been a 65 percent reduction in the deaths of security personnel, 77 percent reduction in the deaths of civilians," he said. The home minister said the Panchayat elections were held in Jammu and Kashmir for the first time since independence with a record turnout. "Once upon a time, MPs got elected with 10,000 votes because elections were boycotted. There was 99 percent voter turnout in the district and taluka panchayat elections," he said. On the Northeast, Shah said since the Narendra Modi government came to power in 2014, there has been a 70 percent reduction in casualties among security forces, an 85 percent reduction in the casualties of civilians and so far 12 peace agreements have been signed with insurgent groups based in the region. Over 10,000 militants in the Northeast have surrendered before authorities in the last 11 years, he said, adding the region is marching ahead with many development projects. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Saturday slammed the violence during 'I Love Mohammad' campaign-related protests, saying those trying to disrupt the Hindu festival of Sharadiya Navratra and inciting violence and anarchy in the name of faith will not be spared. IMAGE: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. Photograph: ANI Photo Comparing the rioters to demons 'Chundd' and Mundd', he said Goddess Bhagwati is not going to tolerate them and they will be crushed. The chief minister was addressing a gathering in Shravasti, a day after clashes occurred in Bareilly between security forces and protesters after Friday prayers during the 'I Love Mohammad' campaign, prompting a massive crackdown by police. "You have seen that in Islam, it is said that they oppose 'bootparastee' (idol worship). It is their matter and their philosophy. We perform idol worship. We worship the 'saakaar brahma' and the 'niraakaar brahma', which is allowed by the Sanatan Dharma.... Some are saying 'I Love Mohammad' and indulging in arson and vandalism." "They know that this is Sharadiya Navratra, the occasion of Vijaya Dashami. If they spread chaos during the Sharadiya Navratra, work like 'Chundd' and 'Mundd', then Goddess Bhagwati is not going to tolerate it. Goddess Bhagwati crushes such 'Chundd' and 'Mundd'," Adityanath said. In Hinduism, Chundd and Mundd were two demon brothers who served the demons Shumbh and Nishumbh and were slain by Goddess Kali, which led to her being named Chamundda. Adityanath said the followers of Sanatan Dharm worship Goddess Durga so that they can derive strength. The chief minister said that the more Indian culture gets enriched, the stronger India becomes and the path of public welfare and global welfare will become more empowered. "Today, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a new India is giving this message to the world. "But, there are some people who don't like peace and welfare. Whenever there is a Hindu festival, they become volatile, to cool them, we have to resort to denting-painting," Adityanath said. He stressed that faith is an internal matter, and it cannot be a matter for demonstration (pradarshan). Anyone can conduct a programme as per their own faith and nobody has any objection to it. "But, if in the name of faith, they indulge in arson, vandalism, attack citizens, attack business establishments, attack the police, and make life hell for daughters, if you instigate, then you will not be spared, you will never be released," Adityanath said. Adityanath was addressing a programme held to inaugurate and lay the foundation stone of various projects in Shravasti worth Rs 510 crore. Earlier in the day also, he cited the Bareilly violence to assert that his government has sent a firm message that disruptions to law and order will not be tolerated. "Sometimes people are not able to shun their bad habits easily. For that, denting-painting are required... You saw this in Bareilly yesterday. A maulana forgot who is in power," Adityanath said, without taking any names. The comments, made while speaking at a 'Viksit UP' event of a media house, appear to be directed at cleric Tauqeer Raza Khan, the chief of the Ittehad-e-Millat Council, who had initially called for a protest in support of the "I Love Muhammad" campaign and was arrested on Saturday for allegedly masterminding the violence. The controversy erupted on September 9, when the police in Kanpur filed an FIR against 24 persons for allegedly installing boards with 'I Love Muhammad' written on them during an Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi procession on September 4. Some Hindu groups had objected to the installation of boards, calling it "deviation from tradition" and a "deliberate provocation". Muslim groups objected to the FIR and soon protests spread to several Uttar Pradesh districts and to states like Uttarakhand and Karnataka. The Uttar Pradesh chief minister also said that it is for this reason that the use of loudspeakers was banned at religious places, and that the ban will continue. He stressed that anarchy can never be tolerated. "We will give respect and security to everyone, but if someone dares to play with the security, or attacks innocents, then such action will be taken that it will set a precedent," Adityanath said. The UP chief minister said that spoiling the atmosphere during festivals is unacceptable. He warned those trying to create a nuisance on roads. "I am warning those who act like cowards by pushing women and children in front of them that they will have to pay the price," he said. He said that the Talibani system will never be allowed in the country. "Some people do not like development; they believe in the Talibani system, and they still believe in Darul Islam. To them, I would say that the desire of the Talibani system and Darul Islam will not be fulfilled even in jannat (heaven), and that they will have to first go to jahannum (hell). "These people have forgotten that this is new Uttar Pradesh of new India. If it knows how to undertake development, it also knows how to strictly deal with mafia elements and those who spread chaos," Adityanath said. The chief minister accused the previous governments of the SP, Congress and BSP of inviting rioters, bowing their heads before them and allowing them to grab government land. A short film dedicated to the development of Shravasti was also screened during the event, the UP government said in a statement. The CM stated further that the double-engine government is working without discrimination to provide facilities, respect, and protection to all. "Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas is our motto. Shravasti is getting an airport; tourists from across the world will come, and this will boost development," he said. "This district has held importance since ancient times. Shravasti was made the capital by Lord Ram's son Lav, which provided security to the nation. It was here that Lord Buddha, after attaining enlightenment, spent the Chaturmas period. "The Jain Tirthankara Lord Sambhavnath was also born here, and King Suheldev defeated invaders like Salar Masud on this land. During Chandragupta's era, Shravasti was the centre of India's economic activities," Adityanath said. Adityanath also announced a state holiday on October 7 to mark Maharishi Valmiki's birth anniversary. He added that Ramayana recitations will be organised in every temple across the state with support from the Department of Culture and Tourism. The toll in the September 27 stampede at actor-politician Vijay-led rally in Karur in western Tamil Nadu climbed to 40 on Sunday with over 60 being treated as in-patients, and at least 2 were critical, officials said. IMAGE: Massive crowd gather for actor-politician Vijay's rally during a public event, in Karur. Photograph: TVK/ANI Photo As the toll mounted, Vijay-led Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) moved the Madras high court Madurai Bench seeking a CBI or an independent probe into the stampede. Vijay, facing flak from various quarters, also announced a compensation of Rs 20 lakh each to the families of the victims, while expressing profound grief over the incident that left 40 dead. The Karur police booked a case under provisions including negligence against TVK office-bearers and forensic experts commenced probe and covered spots like a sewer where a couple of bodies were allegedly found. Traders, shops and commercial establishments in Karur downed the shutters as a mark of respect to the deceased. Ten children--5 boys and as many girls, 17 women and 13 men have died. Justice Aruna Jagadeesan, who leads the single-person Commission Of Inquiry constituted by the Tamil Nadu government, visited a Karur hospital, spoke to the affected people and also inspected the scene of stampede and inquired with officials. Chief Minister MK Stalin, Deputy CM Udhayanidhi Stalin and leaders of political parties including Leader of Opposition, Edappadi K Palaniswami, BJP's Nainar Nagenthran and K Annamalai, VCK chief Thol Thirumavalavan, PMK top leader Anbumani Ramadoss visited the hospital. Celebrities including Rajinikanth and MNM chief Kamal Haasan have condoled the deaths. Answering a question on possibility of TVK chief Vijay's arrest, the CM said any action, to be considered, would be based on the report of the inquiry panel and asserted that he was not inclined to make any comment with a political motive. A Tamil students' body staged a protest in front of Vijay's house in Chennai. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh to the kin of each of the deceased and Rs 50,000 to the injured. While the state government has announced a solatium of Rs 10 lakh each to the families of the deceased and Rs 1 lakh each to the injured, TVK announced Rs 20 lakh each to the families of the deceased and Rs 2 lakh each to those injured. The Tamil Nadu Congress Committee announced Rs 1 crore for the families of the dead and BJP announced Rs 1 lakh each to the kin of deceased. Meanwhile, a man injured in the stampede moved the high court with a plea to forbear Tamil Nadu DGP from granting permission to conduct any further public meetings by the party leader until Saturday's fatal incident was fully investigated and responsibility fixed. Stopping short of alleging a conspiracy into the incident, TVK deputy general secretary Nirmal Kumar told reporters that the party had approached the HC Bench with a plea for an impartial inquiry. Tamil Nadu health secretary P Senthil Kumar, providing updates on those deceased and injured said 2 were critical and all others were stable. The youngest victim was a 2-year old boy. A 28-year old woman and her two daughters, both aged less than 10; a 24-year old man and a 24-year old woman who were set to get married soon were among the victims. Edappadi Palaniswami blamed the police and administration for their inability to avert the tragedy by ensuring proper arrangements. Police claimed that the situation went out of control as several thousands of persons far beyond the expected numbers gathered to see the actor. Also, the crowd swelled due to the delayed arrival of the actor-politician to the venue and they lacked sufficient food and water during the waiting hours under the hot sun. ADGP (Law and Order) S Davidson Devasirvatham said nearly 500 police personnel were deployed for the rally and asserted that proper police bandobust was provided. He denied claims that there was stone pelting during the rally . When Vijay's campaign vehicle was 50 metres away from the designated spot in Karur, he was instructed by a DSP-ranked officer to stop the vehicle and address the gathering from that place itself. But they did not extend their cooperation and insisted that they go the designated spot. BJP leader Annamalai faulted the state government over allocation of venue for the rally and the strength of police personnel that was deployed. He wanted Vijay to give up weekend trips as it would attract more crowd. He demanded that the government take tough action against district collector and police superintendent and sought for a CBI inquiry. Karur district Collector M Thangavel said the administration opened several control rooms at the Government Medical College hospital to immediately serve those affected. Tamil Nadu Generation and Distribution Corporation Chief Engineer C Rajalakshmi denied there was suspension of power supply when the rally was held. Meanwhile, CM Stalin said Rahul Gandhi spoke to him over the phone about the Karur incident. "Thank you, my dear brother Thiru. RahulGandhi , for reaching out to me over phone, conveying your heartfelt concern over the tragic incident in Karur, and sincerely enquiring about the measures taken to save the precious lives of those under treatment," he said in a social media post. Gandhi also reportedly spoke to Vijay. Actor-politician Vijay led TVK on Sunday made a mention before Justice M Dhandapani of the Madras High Court to order CBI or Special Investigation Team probe into the tragic death of 40 people during a stampede at a rally held by the party on September 27 in Karur. IMAGE: The grieving relative of a stampede victim at a hospital in a hospital in Karur, Tamil Nadu, September 28, 2025. Photograph: ANI on X A group of advocates led by TVK's advocates' wing president S Arivazhagan went to the residence of Justice M Dhandapani on Greenways road here and made a mention. In the alternative, they requested the court to initiate suo motu proceedings into the incident (death of 40 people due to stampede). According to TVK party functionary Nirmal Kumar, the judge asked the advocates to file a petition before the Madurai Bench of the Madras high court and it will be taken up for hearing on Monday at 2.15 pm. TVK president Vijay on Sunday announced that Rs 20 lakh would be given to the families of those who lost their lives at a stampede during his party's rally in Karur on September 27. IMAGE: TVK chief and actor Vijay greets gathering before stampede during a public event in Karur, Tamil Nadu, September 27, 2025. Photograph: TVK/ANI Photo The actor-politician said he is deeply anguished over the incident, which claimed more than 30 lives and left many others injured. Expressing his condolences to the bereaved families in a social media post on Sunday, he said a sum of Rs 20 lakh would be given to the families of the deceased and Rs 2 lakh to those who sustained injuries. "It is not a huge amount for the loss you have suffered. I know your loss cannot be replaced. It is an irreparable loss. However, it is my duty to stand next to you in this hour and share your grief," he said. He added that he would pray for the speedy recovery of those injured and assured that his party men would provide all possible support those undergoing treatment in hospitals. 'The TVK Twitter account said Vijay will come at 12 and crowd started coming in from 11 AM. He came at 7.40 PM. The people lacked sufficient food water under the hot sun' IMAGE: Massive crowd gather for actor-politician Vijay's rally during a public event, in Karur. Photograph: TVK/ANI Photo The toll from the stampede at actor Vijay's public rally in Karur has risen to 38, Tamil Nadu DGP G Venkataraman said on Sunday. The crowd swelled due to the delayed arrival of the actor-politician to the venue and they lacked sufficient food and water during the waiting hours under the hot sun, he told reporters in Chennai. "An unfortunate incident happened; a regrettable one. As per latest information, 38 have persons have died. They are 12 men, 16 women and 10 children," he said in an early morning briefing. He further said there was a crowd surge after the official Twitter handle of Vijay's TVK party mentioned that he would arrive at the meeting venue by 12 noon. "Permission (for the meeting) was sought for between 3 pm-10 pm. The TVK Twitter account said he will come at 12 and crowd started coming in from 11 AM. He came at 7.40 PM. The people lacked sufficient food water under the hot sun." "Our intention is not to blame anyone, but we are just stating the facts," the Head of Police Force added. Further, Vijay was accorded welcome at one point and a big crowd followed him and he was ushered in safely to the venue by the police. "He also lauded the police...the crowd kept swelling," he said. While the organisers put the expected number at 10,000, about 27,000 people turned up to have a glimpse of the actor, Venkataraman said. He indicated police protection was given anticipating about 20,000. Asked if there were "only 500" police personnel on bandobast duty, he said the meeting venue was a public road and more police cover would have meant people would not have sufficient space. Two days ago, the meeting of a "big party" was held here, he said in an apparent reference to the AIADMK. Asked if there was any "security lapse" that led to the tragic incident, he pointed out that the government has announced a Commission of Inquiry to probe the cause. The organisers were clearly told about crowd and related issues and the police is only "extra help," and there cannot be added police presence anticipating such a surge in crowd. Presently ADGP (Law and Order), Davidson Devasirvatham, 3 Inspector General of Police, 2 DIGs, 10 SPs and 2000 police personnel have left for Karur, he said. Elon Musk already has rockets, cars, AI, and humanoid robots. Musks rival Sam Altman runs OpenAI, the company behind the leading AI chatbot, ChatGPT. Now, both men and other billionaires want a piece of the human brain. Their latest bets on brain-computer interfaces, or BCIs, reveal less about todays medical breakthroughs and more about a looming contest over who owns the neural on-ramp to digital life. As founders and experts in the space told Decrypt, billionaire attention elevates the whole industry even as it distorts priorities. For billionaires, brain-computer interfaces are not just medical devicesthey represent the next potential platform shift, a way to control the gateway between human thought and digital systems. Owning that interface could mean owning the future of computing. That is why some of the most powerful people in the world are pouring money into BCIs: They see them as a hedge against artificial intelligence, a new control point in the tech stack, and perhaps the ultimate frontier for profit and influence. Musk and Altman make moves Musk founded Neuralink in 2016 with the goal of merging with machines, which he claimed may be the only way to keep pace with artificial intelligence. The company recently raised a $650 million Series E, placing it among the best-funded players in the field. Neuralinks first patient, Noland Arbaugh, has shown he can control a cursor and browse the internet by thought alone. The results have been mixed, but so far, five patients have now been implanted, with trials expanding to speech impairment and vision restoration. Musk keeps framing BCIs as not just medical devices, but a safeguard for humanity in an AI-dominated future. 'Near Telepathic' Wearable Lets You Communicate Silently With Devices Meanwhile, Altman has surfaced as a co-founder of Merge Labs, a new venture aiming to raise around $250 million at a valuation that could reach $850 million. Early reports suggest Merge may pursue non-invasive interfaces, a different path than Neuralinks brain implants. For Altman, who already commands one of the most powerful AI companies, the move signals that the next battle is not only about who builds the smartest models but who controls the pipeline that connects them to humans. Other major bets The circle extends beyond Musk and Altman. Prominent biohacker Bryan Johnson, who made his fortune in payments, poured $100 million into Kernel in 2016. Kernel develops neurotech platforms for measuring brain activity, positioning itself as an infrastructure play rather than a flashy implant company. Jailed activist Sonam Wangchuk's wife Gitanjali Angmo has trashed allegations of "Pakistan link" and financial irregularities against him. IMAGE: The Leh market wears a deserted look after a curfew has been imposed in the city following the arrest of Sonam Wangchuk, in Leh, September 26, 2025. Photograph: ANI Photo Terming the charge that Wangchuk incited the violence in Leh as 'misplaced', she claimed that he has been protesting in the "most Gandhian way possible" and the "situation escalated" on September 24 due to the actions of the CRPF. The police detained climate activist Wangchuk on Friday under the stringent National Security Act, two days after protests demanding Sixth Schedule status and statehood for Ladakh turned violent in Leh last Wednesday, claiming four lives and injuring 90 others. Wangchuk, a key figure in the five-year-long agitation for Ladakh's rights whose detention drew strong reactions from different quarters, has been lodged in prison in Jodhpur, Rajasthan. Talking to PTI over the phone, Angmo, the co-founder of Himalayan Institute of Alternative Learning (HIAL), said she has not been able to communicate with her husband since his detention and dismissed all allegations against the climate activist and their institutions. Claiming that they have not been handed over a copy of the detention order, Angmo said, "They promised to send it on Friday. We will take legal recourse." Ladakh DGP S D Singh Jamwal has said Wangchuk is being probed for allegedly having links with Pakistan on the back of last month's arrest of a Pakistani Intelligence Operative (PIO) who sent videos of his protests across the border. The police chief also cited some of Wangchuk's 'suspicious' foreign trips, including to Pakistan to attend an event by The Dawn. Angmo, however, clarified that their recent visit to the neighbouring country was purely professional and climate-focused. Denouncing the allegations of Pakistan links involving her husband, she said all of Wangchuk's overseas visits were made on the invitation of reputed universities and institutions. "We attended a conference organised by the United Nations, and it was on climate change. The glacier on the top of the Himalayas is not going to see whether I'm flowing into Pakistan or India," she told PTI. She said the 'Breathe Pakistan' conference held in February was organised by the United Nations, Pakistan and Dawn Media, and involved multinational cooperation. "There are organisations like the ICIMOD, which bring together all the eight Hindu Kush countries and work on different issues. We are part of the ICIMOD's Himalayan University Consortium," Angmo said. The International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) is a Nepal-based organisation founded in 1983 comprising eight regional member countries of the Hindu Kush Himalaya region -- India, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, China, Myanmar, Nepal and Pakistan. "I was also there to present a paper on women's role in climate change... In fact, he (Wangchuk) praised Prime Minister (Narendra) Modi on stage at the event." "The Nepal and Bangladesh reference being bandied around is actually an example Sonam gave, ie, when governments are not responsive, it leads to a revolution'. We should avoid the interpretations," she said. Angmo also challenged the slapping of the stringent NSA on Wangchuk, which allows detention without a trial for up to 12 months, citing his long record of peaceful protests. "I think it is a very wrong charge. Sonam certainly is not a threat to any public order," Angmo said. She claimed that Wangchuk advocated for his cause in the "most Gandhian way possible" over the last five years, reminding the government of its promises to Ladakhis, and all through maintaining that the protest organised by the Leh Apex Body was peaceful, and the charge that Wangchuk incited the violence was misplaced. "We have videos to show that the students and the youth were just there for a peaceful protest. Sonam did not even know about (a non-peaceful plan)," she claimed, adding, "He only knew about a peaceful protest. But when the CRPF personnel fired tear gas shells, the youth reacted by pelting stones, and the whole situation escalated." Angmo also questioned the response by the security forces, saying, "My question is, who gave the CRPF the right to open fire? Why should you open fire on your own people, on your own youth?" On the allegation that Wangchuk made a provocative speech, Angmo claimed his Ladakhi words were taken out of context and mistranslated. "He just said that 'when change has to happen, it can start with one individual, or with the death of one individual and that individual could be me; I'm happy to give my life for it'," she said. She also questioned the logic behind the alleged attempt to portray Wangchuk as an anti-national, saying, "How can you portray a person as anti-national who has been talking about making shelters for the Indian Army, and boycotting Chinese goods?" On the charges of financial irregularities involving their institutions, Angmo presented a detailed defence about the foreign funding of HIAL, UGC registration, FCRA cancellation of SECMOL and land allotment. Angmo denied that HIAL took donations from abroad without Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act clearance, claiming the funds were payments for their technologies. "We have the service agreements, which say this is a consulting assignment that we're giving to HIAL for which we will be paying them," she said. She also said that HIAL does not charge its 400 students any fees and raises its running costs through innovations such as ice stupas and passive solar buildings, noting they do not patent their technologies, leaving them free for public use. Angmo said HIAL applied for UGC registration in 2022 and paid a deposit amount of Rs 15 lakh, but 'if at all the registration has not happened, it's because they are stalling it.' She also claimed that the lease for HIAL's land is held up because the UT administration did not have a category for such institutions, adding that 'while questions are being raised on HIAL, the Sindhu Central University, which started in 2021, still doesn't have a building.' Angmo stressed that Wangchuk is not against development, but is advocating for the Sixth Schedule to give locals a say in "mindful development". She pointed to HIAL's suggestion to use translucent solar panels in Changtang to grow fodder for Pashmina goats alongside electricity production. "This kind of mindful development is what he's talking about... HIAL is at the forefront of innovation. It is not that he's anti-development," Angmo said. After the September 4 violence, the Union home ministry cancelled the FCRA licence granted to the Students' Educational and Cultural Movement of Ladakh (SECMOL), an organisation founded by Wangchuk, citing alleged financial discrepancies. Afghanistan's rulers released a US citizen from custody following a visit by Washingtons hostage envoy, the US government and Taliban said on September 28, as the ostracized Taliban rulers continue efforts to improve relations with the West. Amir Amiri, held in Afghanistan since December 2024, was released with help of Qatari government mediation and is on his way to Doha, an official source was quoted by Reuters as saying on September 28. The release comes a week after US President Donald Trump told the Taliban he was seeking the return of the Bagram military base outside Kabul to the United States and threatened "bad things" would happen to Afghanistan if it were not handed over. Amiris release -- the fifth of a US citizen this year -- was carried out as US envoy Adam Boehler visited Kabul for talks with the Taliban rulers. "I want to thank Qatar for helping secure his freedom," US Secretary of State Marco Rubio wrote on X. "POTUS [Trump] has made it clear we will not stop until every American unjustly detained abroad is back home." A week ago, the Taliban released an elderly British couple after nearly eight months. Peter Reynolds, 80, and Barbie, 76, arrived in Britain on September 20 on a flight from Doha, where they had stayed for medical examinations after their release. Since the fall of the Western-backed Afghan government in August 2021, Qatar has often handled US interests in the country in dealings with the de-facto Taliban rulers. CBS news reported Qatar began negotiating for Amiri's release in March. The report, citing sources, said Qatari diplomats monitored Amiri's health and maintained close communication with US officials during his detention. A Taliban Foreign Ministry spokesman confirmed the identity of the man as Amir Amiri but did not provide details of his detention. Little is known of Amiri's situation. AFP quoted an unnamed official as saying the man was 36 years old. "The Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan released an American citizen named Amir Amiri from prison today," the Afghan Foreign Ministry wrote on X. "The Afghan government does not view the issues of citizens from a political angle and makes it clear that ways can be found to resolve issues through diplomacy," the statement added. On September 19, Trump said the United States is attempting to get the Bagram base back from Afghanistans Taliban rulers, citing the extremist groups need for US help and the facilitys proximity to Chinas nuclear assets. Bagram was once the largest US military base in Afghanistan, but it was handed over in July 2021 to the previous Afghan government -- weeks before the chaotic withdrawal of US troops and the eventual takeover of the country by the Taliban. The Taliban rulers rejected the presence of foreign troops in the country. However, the Taliban government, ruling a country hit by natural disasters, unrest, poverty, and terrorist attacks, has attempted to improve ties with the global community, especially the United States. As of now, Russia is the only country to establish diplomatic relations, as other nations have demanded improvements in the Taliban rights records, especially toward woman. With reporting by Reuters, CBS, AFP, and The Independent Iran has slammed what it called "failed diplomacy" after a last minute diplomatic push failed to stop the United Nations from officially reimposing sanctions on Tehran over its nuclear program. Britain, France, and Germany -- the European 3 (E3) forces leading the move -- announced that the so-called snapback sanctions had been reimposed on Iran as of September 28. Iran is already reeling under the weight of sanctions from the United States, and the rial, Iran's currency immediately fell to a record low 1.12 million rials against the dollar. The E3 immediately warned Tehran against any "escalatory" steps in reaction to the move and urged the Islamic republic to return to negotiations, particularly with the United States. "The reimposition of UN sanctions is not the end of diplomacy," the foreign ministers of the E3 said in a joint statement. "We urge Iran to refrain from any escalatory action and to return to compliance with its legally binding safeguards obligations," the statement added. It recounted that "in July 2025, we offered Iran a limited, one-time snapback extension provided that Iran agreed to resume direct and unconditional negotiations with the United States, return to compliance with its legally binding safeguards obligations, and address its high enriched uranium stockpile." "Regrettably, Iran did not take the necessary actions to address our concerns, nor to meet our asks on extension.... In particular, Iran has not authorized IAEA inspectors to regain access to Iran's nuclear sites, nor has it produced and transmitted to the IAEA a report accounting for its stockpile of high-enriched uranium." Rubio Urges UN Members To Take Action US Secretary of State Marco Rubio urged UN member states "to implement snapback sanctions immediately in order to pressure Iran's leaders to do what is right for their nation and best for the safety of the world." He also called on Iran to "accept direct talks, held in good faith, without stalling or obfuscation." Tehran has blasted the E3 move to reimpose the sanctions, calling it "unlawful." Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi accused UN members, who met this week in New York City for an annual general assembly of conspiring against Tehran. "None of what I have seen in New York suggests that the failure of dialogue is by accident," he said in a post on social media, calling any attempt to revive the sanctions as "null and void." "The U.S./E3 rejection of diplomacy is intent and premised on the miscalculation that 'might makes right,' and that the Iranian People will give in to bullying. Doubling down on faulty assumptions will not resolve the unnecessary crisis at hand." The European powers had triggered a 30-day countdown to the reimposition of sanctions by accusing Iran of violating a 2015 deal aimed to prevent it from developing a nuclear weapon. The sanctions had been lifted as part of the deal. Bid For Delay By Russia, China Fails A last-minute bid by Russia and China to delay the snapback sanctions by six months failed in the Security Council on September 26. The snapback measures were designed in a way that would prevent vetoes by Russia and China, permanent members of the Security Council. The punitive actions include a conventional arms embargo, restrictions on activities related to ballistic missiles, a ban on reprocessing and enrichment of uranium, a global asset freeze, and travel bans on Iranian individuals and entities. In comments to reporters after the failed move by Moscow and Beijing to delay the sanctions, Iranian President Masud Pezeshkian said his country was prepared to be "transparent about our highly enriched uranium." But he added that the "wall of mistrust" between Tehran and Washington is "quite high." On September 27, Pezeshkian claimed the United States had offered Iran an "unacceptable" deal to hand over all its enriched uranium in exchange for a three-month exemption from sanctions. "They want us to give them all of our enriched uranium in exchange for giving us a three-month period, which is absolutely unacceptable," said Pezeshkian, who is considered to be a moderate by many observers but with little power over the clerics who have ultimate authority. The new penalties will come on top of existing sanctions against Tehran that have severely crippled the economy and at times led to street unrest in Iranian cities. Iranian officials have attempted to downplay the impact of the return of UN sanctions, but experts said they would hit Iran hard, weakening the currency and leading to price hikes for food supplies, including for meat, rice, and other staples. Along with concerns about the potential for an Iranian nuclear weapon, Western leaders and rights groups have for decades accused Tehran of human rights violations and of fomenting extremist action in the Middle East -- which Tehran denies. With reporting by RFE/Rl's Radio Farda, Reuters, AFP, and AP Russia launched hundreds of drones and dozens of missiles in a massive air attack on Ukraine, killing at least four people including a 12-year-old girl in Kyiv and inflicting damage to civilian infrastructure. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called the September 28 attack, which comes after the Kremlin warned NATO about taking action over alleged incursions of its airspace, "vile," saying it showed Moscow wants to pursue war, not peace. "Savage strikes, a deliberate, targeted terror against ordinary cities nearly 500 attack drones and over 40 missiles, including Kinzhal missiles," Zelenskyy said in a social media post. "Moscow wants to keep fighting and killing, and it deserves the toughest pressure from the world. The Kremlin benefits from continuing this war and terror as long as it earns revenue from energy and operates a shadow fleet," he added. Zelenskyy said some 500 drones and 40 missiles were fired at several regions, hitting targets such as an industrial bakery, a tire factory, houses, and apartment buildings. The 12-year-old girl was one of four killed in the capital, while dozens of others were injured, he added. Lyudmyla, a neighbor of the girl killed in the attack, told RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service that the family had just returned from abroad for the beginning of the school year when their apartment was struck. "They had such a cheerful little girl -- she did sports, studied English... This is just shocking," Lyudmyla added. "The Russians have restarted the child death counter," Tymur Tkachenko, head of the Kyiv City Administration, said in a post on Telegram. Kyiv Mayor Vitaliy Klitschko said a medical facility and a kindergarten were also struck. He added that a fire had also broken out at a gas station due to falling debris. The attack on Ukraine on September 28 also injured dozens in the country's major southern city of Zaporizhzhya. At least three of them are children, regional Governor Ivan Fedorov said. "Forty-one apartment buildings, 22 houses, and several nonresidential structures were damaged as a result of the enemy attacks," Fedorov added. Russia's Defense Ministry claimed it had carried out the attack to target Ukraine's military infrastructure. Russian officials have repeatedly denied targeting civilian sites, despite mounting evidence to the contrary. Dim Prospects For Peace The strikes come at a time when prospects for peace seem as distant as ever and Russia's full-scale invasion nears to continue into its fourth winter. A US effort to broker a peace deal has brought little progress. The positions of Ukraine and Russia remain far apart, and US President Donald Trump has so far not succeeded in organizing a trilateral summit or a face-to-face meeting between Russian and Ukrainian presidents. Meanwhile, international concerns continue to grow that the conflict could spread deeper into Europe after Russian drones landed on Polish soil and Russian fighter aircraft reportedly entered Estonian airspace. Zelenskyy, in a speech at the United Nations General Assembly this week in New York City, warned the world is in "the most destructive arms race in human history" and urged the international community to act against Russia. Trump told the UNGA that he believed Ukraine could win back all territory lost to Russia, an apparent shift from his repeated calls for Kyiv to make concessions to end the war sparked by President Vladimir Putins February 2022 invasion of its neighbor. Interview: Closer Malaysia-China ties boost biosphere conservation, says Malaysian environmentalist Xinhua) 14:36, September 28, 2025 KUALA LUMPUR, Sept. 27 (Xinhua) -- "It was an eye-opening experience and a good learning chance for the young scientists who came with me. They were excited to meet other groups, and I hope they understand how important and responsible it is to be part of the World Network of Biosphere Reserves," said Professor Mushrifah Idris, honorary advisor of Malaysia's Tasik Chini Research Center at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia. The 5th World Congress of Biosphere Reserves was held in Hangzhou, China, from Sept. 22 to 25. Mushrifah, who led her team to the event, told Xinhua in an interview that the congress served as a platform for deeper exchanges and broader cooperation with experts and scholars from China, ASEAN countries and beyond. She added that it also enabled young Malaysian researchers to widen their horizons and seize new opportunities for international collaboration. "China showed us that displaying their biosphere reserves can attract visitors and participants. Using modern methods is a new trend to raise awareness among youth and scientists," Mushrifah said, adding that the congress also addressed a number of key issues, including how biosphere reserves can benefit local communities, the need to focus on those yet to deliver outcomes, and ways to explore integrated solutions. "A biosphere reserve holds great potential, but biosphere reserves together create broader opportunities," she emphasized. Launched in 1971, UNESCO's Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Program is an intergovernmental scientific initiative that promotes a new model of conservation: establishing biosphere reserves that combine nature protection with sustainable socio-economic development and cultural preservation. As one of the initiators behind Tasik Chini's successful designation to UNESCO's MAB Program, Mushrifah recalled that although Tasik Chini covers a relatively small area, it has faced complex challenges and conflicts. The early scientific team built a systematic database to provide evidence-based support for policy decisions, with conservation always as the top priority. Today, she noted, the focus has expanded from biodiversity and water protection to also include the welfare of indigenous communities, state governance needs, and the research interests of the scientific community. Mushrifah has visited China many times for academic exchanges and field studies, and was deeply impressed by China's practices in preserving natural and cultural resources. She recalled seeing traditional plant-dyeing crafts still alive in Miao communities in China. With support from NGOs, similar techniques have since been introduced in Malaysia, enabling indigenous people to produce handicrafts and generate sustainable income. "We hope to establish closer partnerships with China, and to help more indigenous people achieve self-reliance," she said. She added that she has closely followed China's ecological restoration cases. Given that Malaysia and southern China share similar tropical climates, she believes there is great potential for cooperation in ecosystem rehabilitation, agricultural productivity, and new technology applications. Mushrifah also highlighted the need for expertise and equipment in water quality monitoring. She further stressed that cross-border cooperation should extend to digital infrastructure and clean energy. "China has experience in extending network coverage even in mountainous regions, and its advances in renewable energy could help us push for a greener transformation of the reserve," she said. "Tasik Chini has been a biosphere reserve for 16 years. We hope to leave more complete records and pass on the experience to the next generation," she said, noting that her team looks forward to strengthening collaboration with international partners, including China. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) Key Points London's "Financial Times" just reported on a new competitive threat to MP Materials. Minnesotan start-up Niron Magnetics says it can make better magnets out of common iron and nitrogen. Industry and government have contributed about $220 million in support to Niron so far. 10 stocks we like better than MP Materials MP Materials (NYSE: MP) stock tumbled 9% through 3 p.m. ET Friday after London's Financial Times reported on a potential competitive threat to MP's vast investments (already made) in reviving the American rare earth mining industry, and capacity to produce rare earth magnets domestically. Image source: Getty Images. Could Niron replace MP? Automotive giants Stellantis and General Motors, along with Volvo and Samsung, are investing $150 million in a start-up called Niron Magnetics, which aims to make magnets from common elements such as iron and nitrogen -- rather than rare earth elements (which aren't exactly rare, but can be hard to refine). Various U.S. government agencies have granted the company nearly $70 million more in tax credits and other subsidies. Niron is building an iron nitride magnetics factory in Minnesota, capable of producing 1,500 tons of magnets annually, and says its magnets will be 18% more powerful than certain -- much more expensive -- rare earth magnets. Is MP Materials stock a sell? I wouldn't panic just yet, however. While Niron's magnets have been reported to be better than some of the best rare earth magnets, this appears based on lab reports at present, and the company hasn't yet proven it can produce magnets of the reported superiority, at scale, and at affordable prices. It's also worth noting that while Niron has attracted substantial support from government and industry, so too has MP Materials -- up to and including the U.S. government taking an equity stake in the company. And MP Materials has a huge lead in building out mining and manufacturing operations to support production of its own magnets. True, if all of Niron's claims prove out, there could be risk to MP here. But it's a big "if," and too soon to tell just how big of a risk. Should you invest $1,000 in MP Materials right now? Before you buy stock in MP Materials, consider this: The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now and MP Materials wasnt one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years. Consider when Netflix made this list on December 17, 2004... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, youd have $651,593!* Or when Nvidia made this list on April 15, 2005... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, youd have $1,089,215!* Eva Osborne An extensive search coordinated by the Irish Coast Guard for a missing fisherman in Donegal Bay has ended with the recovery of a body off Teelin on the Donegal Coast. A local fishing vessel involved in the search made the discovery just before 6pm on Saturday. The search concluded after three days of intensive searching coordinated by the Coast Guard at Malin Head Maritime Rescue Sub Centre. The Coast Guard said it extends its sympathy to the family at this time of sadness and thanked all the search units and local fishing vessels, An Garda Siochana along with the community for their support throughout the search. A district court judge has called for expanded sentencing options to deal with animal health and welfare cases, saying that the existing penalties are not sufficient. At a sitting of Roscommon District Court, a 71 year old farmer who left animal carcasses on land for months was jailed for five months for failing to have his cattle tested for TB. He was also fined a total of 6,000 and banned from holding animals for farming purposes for five years. Photos of the carcasses, which were said to be significantly decomposed, were handed into court and the prosecutions were taken by the Department of Agriculture. Sentencing, Judge James Faughnan said he took the offences most seriously, adding he was reluctant to call the accused a farmer as farming was all about looking after animals and husbandry. He said it was unacceptable to leave carcasses on land for months. He was informed that most of the offences could only attract fines, and he imposed two 3,000 fines and a five month prison sentence. He also banned the accused from holding livestock for five years. The judge commented that the department should look at expanding the range of penalties available to the courts, saying the current ones were not good enough. He asked that the department be made aware of the need for appropriate sentencing options to be made available. (see full story in Roscommon Herald print edition) Budget 2026 and the discovery of the bodies of a young girl and a man in Finglas are the main stories on Sunday's front pages. Ministers have ruled out income tax cuts in the upcoming budget, The Sunday Times reports. The discovery of the bodies of a young girl and man in a Dublin home also makes the front page. Irish airports are easy targets for drones, the Sunday Independent reports. An opinion piece from Maria Steen also features on the front page. Dublin Airport will get special status to lift the 'mad' passenger cap, the Business Post reports. UK-based families are flying in babies to fraudulently claim benefits in Ireland, the Irish Mail on Sunday reports. The Irish Sunday Mirror leads with a story on the bodies discovered in Finglas. James Lawrence, the man sued alongside Conor McGregor by Nikita Hand in a civil rape trial, has paid 300 to a court poor box in exchange for having a charge of possessing MDMA at the Electric Picnic music festival dismissed, the Sunday World reports. The Sunday Life leads with a story on a former Northern Ireland youth star who was caught drug dealing for the 'New IRA'. A range of stories feature on Britain's Sunday front pages. Manchester United legend Gary Neville has been caught using his phone while driving for the fourth time, Daily Star Sunday reports. Britain's Prince Harry claims royal aides are trying to sabotage his reunion with his father King Charles, the Mail on Sunday reports. Thomas Skinner has hired a bodyguard due to death threats, the Sun on Sunday reports. Nato 'must be solid' to prevent war, the Sunday Express reports. UK prime minister Keir Starmer has warned British voters not to fall for 'grubby' Reform UK leader Nigel Farage, the Sunday Mirror reports. The Sunday People leads with a story on Christian Brueckner, the lead suspect in the disappearance of Madeleine McCann. Sunday People: Maddie suspect moved out of town #TomorrowsPapersToday pic.twitter.com/TDyt1p2BOk George Mann (@sgfmann) September 27, 2025 UK chancellor Rachel Reeves is set to unveil a new spending package, the Sunday Telegraph reports. The Sunday Telegraph: Ministers beg Reeves to unleash spending #TomorrowsPapersToday pic.twitter.com/oJ3wp6LXle George Mann (@sgfmann) September 27, 2025 Ahead of the Labour conference, Keir Starmer says his party can turn bad polling numbers around, The Sunday Times reports. The Sunday Times: I think we can pull this round, says Starmer #TomorrowsPapersToday pic.twitter.com/HlzMJMoDt2 George Mann (@sgfmann) September 27, 2025 The New York Times leads with a story on the prosecution of former FBI director James Comey. The Washington Post leads with a story on US president Donald Trump's plan to send troops into Portland, Oregon. Delhi Baba Chaitanyananda Saraswati's Secrets Coming Out After Arrest; Fake UN ID, "These documents were designed to create a false impression of legitimacy and power," a police official quoted as telling ANI, News agency. Delhi Baba Chaitanyananda Saraswati's Arrested Fake UN ID Recovered Latest News: Delhi Police have arrested self-proclaimed godman Chaitanyananda Saraswati, who is accused of sexual harassment of multiple women. According to a report by the Mint, Saraswati is also accused of portraying himself as a high-ranking international diplomat using fake identity cards. Advertisement Fake IDs Recovered from Chaitanyananda Saraswati According to authorities, in the Mint report, two counterfeit visiting cards were recovered from Saraswati. One identified him as a Permanent Ambassador to the United Nations, while the other described him as a Special Envoy of India and a member of the Joint Commission of BRICS countries. Police confirmed, the report added, that both IDs were entirely fabricated and appeared to be part of an effort to falsely project global diplomatic status and influence. Advertisement "These documents were designed to create a false impression of legitimacy and power," a police official quoted as telling ANI, News agency. (For more news apart from Delhi Baba With Fake UN ID: Chaitanyananda Saraswati's Secrets Coming Out After Arrest News, stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman) Rahul Gandhi: Ladakh's Amazing People, Culture, and Traditions Are Under Attack by BJP & RSS Gitanjali Angmo said, Forget inciting it, he was not even aware of this. Rahul Gandhi: Ladakhs Amazing People, Culture, and Traditions Are Under Attack by BJP & RSS: Leader of Opposition and Congress MP Rahul Gandhi on Sunday fumed in anger over the situation in the Union Territory of Ladakh, accusing the BJP and RSS of attacking Ladakhs amazing people, culture, and traditions. In a post on X, the Congress leader said, Ladakhs amazing people, culture, and traditions are under attack by BJP & RSS. Advertisement Ladakhis asked for a voice. The BJP responded by killing four young men and jailing Sonam Wangchuk. Stop the killing. Stop the violence. Stop the intimidation. Give Ladakh a voice. Give them the 6th Schedule, Rahul Gandhi wrote in the post. Sonam Wangchuk, whom many Ladakhis refer to as the voice of Ladakh, was arrested on the 26th under the National Security Act, 1980, and was taken to Jodhpur in Rajasthan on the same day. Ladakhs amazing people, culture, and traditions are under attack by the BJP and RSS. Ladakhis asked for a voice. The BJP responded by killing 4 young men and jailing Sonam Wangchuk. Stop the killing. Stop the violence. Stop the intimidation. Give Ladakh a voice. Give them Advertisement September 28, 2025 Sonam Wangchuks wife, Gitanjali Angmo, told The Hindu that she had yet to receive a copy of the order or speak to her husband. Gitanjali Angmo further said that the police told her on September 26, the day he was detained from his village, that they would allow her to speak to Mr. Wangchuk once he reached Jodhpur. Sonam Wangchuk has been accused of inciting the violence that led to the deaths of four people, including a retired army person whose father also served in the Indian Army for over 30 years. Advertisement Gitanjali Angmo said, Forget inciting it, he was not even aware of this. Sonam Wangchuk is certainly not a threat to public order. He has been protesting in the most peaceful and Gandhian way possible. It was a peaceful protest by the Ladakhi youth. It was the security personnel who used tear gas first, and as a reaction to that, the youth started pelting stones, and the whole thing escalated. Sonam had nothing to do with it. Forget inciting it, he was not even aware of this. He immediately condemned the violence and stopped his fast because he did not want the youth to be harmed in any way, Gitanjali Angmo was quoted as saying in The Hindu report. Congress condemns the handling of the situation in Ladakh by the Government and the Arrest of Sonam Wangchuk Advertisement The Indian National Congress strongly condemned the 'pathetic handling' of the situation in Ladakh by the Government & subsequent arrest of Sonam Wangchuk under the draconian National Security Act. "At the heart of the crisis lies the BJPs persistent betrayal of the aspirations of the people of Ladakh. For over a year now, there has been turmoil, and instead of lending a patient hearing to the cries of the people for inclusion under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution, the Modi Government is responding with violence," Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha, Mallikarjun Kharge said in a post on X on 27 September, one day after the arrest. "The BJP had pledged Sixth Schedule status for the region; sadly, that promise has been squarely abandoned. The Indian National Congress seeks nothing but peace in Ladakh. For decades, we have ensured that this beautiful border region remains harmonious and secure, upholding both the spirit of Democracy and the cause of National Security," the post further read. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge also demanded a judicial investigation into the deaths of "innocent young men and the serious injuries inflicted upon many others." "The democratic institutions and democracy need to be revived and restored in Ladakh," he added. Meanwhile, Ladakh has entered the fifth day of curfew-like restrictions. (For more news apart from Rahul Gandhi: Ladakhs Amazing People, Culture, and Traditions Are Under Attack by BJP & RSS, stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman. Sonam Wanghcuk's Wife on Allegations Linked to Pakistan: Absolute False Propaganda' Speaking at the conference, Sonam Wangchuk can be seen praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his initiatives to save the environment. Sonam Wangchuks Wife on Allegations Linked to Pakistan Latest News: The now-detained climate activist Sonam Wangchuks wife, Gitanjali Angmo, has called the Pakistan narrative about her husband absolute false propaganda. Sharing a video clip from a conference the couple attended in February this year on her Instagram handle, Wangchuks wife said, The Pakistan narrative about Sonam Wangchuk is absolute false propaganda. He and I were invited for a conference on Climate Change organized by the United Nations and Dawn Media. Advertisement The videos are attached for everyones watching. The point to highlight is Sonam had praised the leadership of Mr Modi for initiatives on climate action like Simply Life. Kindly circulate this widely because the ridiculous false narrative and propaganda that is maliciously being used to defame him has to be stalled, she added in the post. Speaking at the conference, Sonam Wangchuk can be seen praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his initiatives to save the environment. Advertisement Similarly leadership has to take charge, world leaders, while many world leaders are now denying climate change even, I am happy that Prime Minister Modi has not only taken many initiatives but also launched a special mission called mission life, life style for the environment to urge people to live simpler life. This kind of initiatives we expect from leadership, from media, from celebrities all, so that we have a safer place to live, Sonam Wangchuk can be seen as saying so in the video clip from the conference shared by his wife. Sonam Wangchuk visited Pakistan for the climate conference in Islamabad in early February. Wangchuk has shared the full speech on his YouTube channel. Following the visit to Islamabad for the conference, Wangchuk, in a separate post, expressed his shock over some people both in Pakistan and India. He said some Pakistanis questioned him for praising PM Modi from the stage he spoke on in Islamabad, while some in India questioned him for his visit to Pakistan. He wrote in a post on X, YES I'M IN ISLAMABAD. And yes, I praised PM Modi's #MissionLiFE Why should anyone be surprised. Air, water, pollution & emission know no boundaries, our efforts should also not...And good initiatives anywhere must be appreciated! We Shall Overcome! Sonam Wangchuk has tagged Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the same post. Advertisement YES I'M IN ISLAMABAD And yes, I praised PM Modi's #MissionLiFE Why should anyone be surprised Air, water, pollution & emission know no boundaries, our efforts should also not... And good initiatives anywhere must be appreciated! We Shall Overcome!@narendramodi#sonamwangchuk pic.twitter.com/pgWCEa67SA Sonam Wangchuk (@Wangchuk66) February 8, 2025 Sonam Wangchuk was arrested on 26 September, two days after the peaceful protest turned violent. Four people were killed in the police and CRPF firing on the same day, leaving about 90 injured. Some still remain critically injured, with one shifted to AIIMS Delhi. However, the condition of one critically injured person is reported to be very critical, with the bullets piercing through his lungs. Sonam Wangchuk was arrested under the National Security Act, 1980, and is in Jodhpur, Rajasthan. His supporters are continuously praying for his release. Some peaceful protests were also seen in Delhi, led by the Aam Aadmi Party. One more protest is being held this evening in Jaipur, Rajasthan, led by Dolkaba, Save Dol Ka Badh Forest, a citizens' movement to save a 105-acre urban forest in Jaipur. Stand for Justice. Stand for Sonam Wangchuk, it said in a post on instragram. An Indian journalist also attended the conference in Pakistan; Criticizes govt for its blame on Sonam Wangchuk for the violence in Ladakh Journalist Nirupama Subramanian, who also attended the same conference Sonam Wangchuk attended in Pakistan, stated that the conference was about climate change and how South Asians had to do something about it together and that Wangchuk had nothing but praise for Prime Minister Modi. Nirupama Subramanian said in a post on X, Among the many charges that the govt has levelled against Ladakh climate change activist #SonamWangchuk in connection with the recent violence in #Ladakh is that he attended a conference in Pakistan organised by Dawn media group and that shows how last weeks deadly protests were incited by him with foreign help. I attended the conference too. It was about climate change and how South Asians had to do something about it together as we shared mountain ranges, river systems and coastlines. And let me tell you that in his presentation, Wangchuk, who has been a supporter of the BJP for its doing away of Article 370, and making Ladakh a separate UT, had nothing but praise for Prime Minister Modi, she continued. No one in the audience seemed to know how famous he was. When Sonam was introduced by the moderator, there was no mention of his political activism at all. It was only after I mentioned to my friend and journalist @HamidMirPAK about the Three Idiots link that he alerted his network and TV crews started buzzing around him and he was mobbed by youngsters, she further stated in her post. She strongly criticized the government for turning a peaceful protest into a pit of disappointment and anger, and for allegedly casually shifting the blame for the governments own acts of omission and commission" in Ladakh on Sonam Wangchuk. This whole campaign about his alleged anti-nationalism has been drummed up by a government that failed to foresee how it was turning a peaceful little place into a pit of disappointment and anger, and casually shifting the blame for its own acts of omission and commission in Ladakh on this guy. And a spineless, communal media serving it up in another of its spectacular self goals. I wish I could use some choice expletives but I will confine myself to this: cynical, self serving and stupid beyond belief, Nirupama Subramanian said in her post on Sunday (28 Sep. 2025). (For more news apart from Rahul Gandhi: Ladakhs Amazing People, Culture, and Traditions Are Under Attack by BJP & RSS, stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman. Key Points The space/defense company has been rather busy of late. It announced the fulfillment of one contract and the start of another. 10 stocks we like better than Redwire Over the past few days, space and defense company Redwire's (NYSE: RDW) stock was following the trajectory of a rocket blasting into the void. Thanks to not one, but two deals announced by the company, its stock price had improved by nearly 13% week to date as of Friday early morning, according to data compiled by S&P Global Market Intelligence. On land and in the cosmos The first of those two arrangements was trumpeted by Redwire Wednesday morning. The company's highly specialized defense subsidiary Edge Autonomy, which concentrates on advanced unmanned aerial systems (UASes), completed its latest delivery of such assets to the Ukraine military for use in its war against Russia. Image source: Getty Images. That probably didn't come as a surprise or shock to folks familiar with Redwire and Edge's work, as the latter has been supplying the country since the Russians invaded in 2022. Also, for some time the subsidiary has been active in the Baltics region. This, like Ukraine, was part of the old Soviet Union and currently borders Russia. A mere two days later, Redwire announced the second deal. It wrote that it has been contracted by privately held aerospace company Axiom Space to develop and deliver customized roll-out solar array (ROSA) wings for a module its client is developing as part of a broader project to build a commercial space station. Redwire is a veteran as far as this work is concerned. The company didn't hesitate to add that its ROSA solutions have a collective 100% success rate, and have found their way to projects such as the International Space Station and an asteroid redirection test conducted by NASA. Missing: Financial details What Redwire did hesitate to reveal was the financial particulars of the two developments. Investors didn't seem to mind; the thinking, apparently, is that the company is busy enough and producing numerous revenue streams. This will surely be positively reflected in its fundamentals across the coming quarters. Should you invest $1,000 in Redwire right now? Before you buy stock in Redwire, consider this: The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now and Redwire wasnt one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years. Consider when Netflix made this list on December 17, 2004... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, youd have $651,593!* Or when Nvidia made this list on April 15, 2005... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, youd have $1,089,215!* Bhagat Singh Birth Anniversary: Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann and AAP Arvind Kejriwal Pay Tribute Today marks the 118th birth anniversary of Bhagat Singh. He was born in the year 1907. Bhagat Singh Birth Anniversary: Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann, AAP Arvind Kejriwal Pay Tribute: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann paid heartfelt tribute to the revolutionary warrior Shaheed-e-Azam Sardar Bhagat Singh on his birth anniversary. In a post on X, the chief minister wrote, We pay heartfelt tribute to the revolutionary warrior Shaheed-e-Azam Sardar Bhagat Singh Ji, who shook the foundations of British rule, on the occasion of his birth anniversary.The Chief Minister paid tribute in the Punjabi Language. Advertisement To think of one's country and people at a young age and sacrifice one's life for their freedomthis privilege falls to only a few. The entire life of Shaheed Bhagat Singh Ji will always continue to inspire the youth generation for patriotism, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann added in the post on Sunday Morning. Similarly, Aam Aadmi Party national convener and former Delhi Chief Minister also paid tribute to the freedom fighter in a post on X, writing, On the birth anniversary of Shaheed-e-Azam Bhagat Singh Ji, we pay our heartfelt respects to him. His bravery, sacrifice, and patriotism remind us that the interest of the nation is always paramount. Let us resolve to build the India of his dreams. Jai Hind. Kejriwal made the post in Hindi. Advertisement Today marks the 118th birth anniversary of Bhagat Singh. He was born in the year 1907. (For more news apart from Bhagat Singh Birth Anniversary: Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann and AAP Arvind Kejriwal Pay Tribute, stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman. Ukraine's President Zelenskyy Warns of Putin's War Expansion Plans Beyond Ukraine Putin will not wait to finish his war in Ukraine. He will open up some other direction. Nobody knows where. He wants that. Ukraines President Zelenskyy Warns of Putins War Expansion Plans Beyond Ukraine, Latest News: Ukraines President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has warned that Russian President Vladimir Putin could expand the war in "some other direction" beyond Ukraine, accusing him of sending drones into European airspace to test NATOs defences, India Today reported. Zelenskyy, as quoted in the report, stated, Putin will not wait to finish his war in Ukraine. He will open up some other direction. Nobody knows where. He wants that. Advertisement According to the news report, Zelenskyy made this statement after meeting former US President Donald Trump on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York. Drones were reportedly spotted over Denmark, Poland, and Romania, while Russian fighter jets violated Estonian airspace. More drones were seen near a Danish military base on Friday night and a Norwegian base on Saturday. Zelenskyy called these drone and air incursions deliberate probes by Russia to see how NATO and European countries would respond. Advertisement The report added that earlier this month, Ukraine reported 92 drones flying toward Poland in a coordinated formation, most of which were intercepted by Ukrainian forces. Zelenskyy further hinted that European countries were struggling to counter these attacks and said that representatives from several nations would visit Ukraine for practical training on defending against Russian aerial strikes, the report futher said. We are ready to share our experience, Zelenskyy is quoted as saying in the report. Advertisement He also briefed former US President Donald Trump about the situation on the battlefield during their meeting. (For more news apart from Bhagat Singh Birth Anniversary: Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann and AAP Arvind Kejriwal Pay Tribute, stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman. Election in the Republic of Moldova UPDATE The latest turnout in the Parliamentary Election of the Republic of Moldova Election in the Republic of Moldova UPDATE Newsroom, 28.09.2025, 16:47 VOTE Over one 1.2 million Moldovan citizens already cast their ballot until 17 hours local time, to elect the 101 MPs in the unicameral Parliament in Chisinau. According to the Central Election Committee, turnout at the mentioned hour was over 42%. Roughly 3.3 million eligible citizens of the Republic of Moldova are expected to cast their ballot today for the 101 MPs in the countrys unicameral Parliament. They are voting for a Legislature to decide the future of the ex-Soviet Romanian-speaking republic. The republic will either maintain its course and kick off talks for EU accession or drop the democratic reforms and rejoin Moscows sphere of influence. The ruling pro-European Party for Action and Solidarity and several pro-Russia blocs are vying for Parliament seats. The election unfolds against several attempts to influence the voters, destabilize and spread disinformation, as well as cyber attacks, the Moldovan authorities are blaming on Russia. The Moldovan citizens abroad are able to vote in over 300 polling stations, most of them in Italy, Germany, France, Britain and Romania. In Romania, they can cast their ballots in 23 polling stations all over the country. The polling stations will close at 21 hours. (bill) Polling stations have closed in the Republic of Moldova Voter turnout stood at 52% in the parliamentary elections held in Republic of Moldova on Sunday, September 28. Voter turnout in the parliamentary elections in the Republic of Moldova, when polls closed (Photo pv.cec.md) Radio Romania International, 28.09.2025, 21:56 On Sunday, September 28, the citizens of the Republic of Moldova went to the polls to elect the 101 members of Parliament. Voters were able to vote in 2,274 polling stations, opened throughout the Republic of Moldova and abroad. The preliminary results are available in real time HERE. Polling stations in the Republic of Moldova closed at 9:00 p.m., when the voter turnout exceeded 1,593,000, that is 51.94%. Of the total of 1.59 million voters, 1.32 million cast their votes on the territory of the Republic of Moldova and over 260,000 at the polling stations opened abroad. 29,379 people voted at the 23 polling stations opened in Romania. The President of the Republic of Moldova, Maia Sandu, sent a message of gratitude to the citizens who participated in the parliamentary elections on September 28: Thank you to Moldovans at home and in the diaspora for participating in the vote! In Moldova, the polling stations closed at 9:00 PM, but in some countries the polling stations are still open. Go vote!, Sandu wrote on her page. In her message, the president recalled that the electoral process continues abroad and encouraged Moldovans living abroad to take advantage of the remaining time to exercise their right to vote. The National Police of the Republic of Moldova warns the country could face protests as of Sunday night. Furthermore, police officials issued a statement on Sunday evening announcing that there is information about some groups of people who intend, as from Sunday midnight to Monday, to organize destabilizing actions in the city of Chisinau. We would like to point out that the law enforcers will not tolerate violations of the law, disruption of public order, endangerment of citizens, or endangerment of national security. The police remind the organizers that they are responsible for the events and urge citizens to analyze their decisions and actions and not to accept involvement in illegal actions with a high risk of criminal liability. Seane Layne, director of Focus 5, an educational consulting firm, leads a classroom activity with second-graders Alijah Ramirez and Brieanna Gordinier at Enchanted Hills Elementary in Rio Rancho on Thursday, Sept. 25. Kevin Opsahl Sean Layne, director of Focus 5, an educational consulting firm, leads a classroom activity at Enchanted Hills Elementary in Rio Rancho on Thursday, Sept. 25. Focus 5 is helping the elementary school through a new arts integration program over several years. Kevin Opsahl RIO RANCHO Two Rio Rancho elementary schools are testing a national program that utilizes the arts to help students learn other subjects. Enchanted Hills and Sandia Vista are partnering to offer Acting Right, an arts integration program that blends drama with classroom teaching techniques to help students improve their behavior. The program, now in its first year at Rio Rancho Public Schools, is spearheaded by Focus 5, an international educational consulting firm. Its director was on hand last week to monitor its effectiveness in the classroom and guide students through lessons. (Officials in) the field of education will say, Our classrooms in the 21st century should be student-centered, active, engaging, social, cooperative, and kinesthetic, Focus 5 Director Sean Layne said. We get that mandate from the field of education, but its struggling to show teachers how that happens. Enchanted Hills and Sandia Vista were given a total of $50,000 by the Rio Rancho Public Schools Board of Education to carry out arts integration over a four-year period, according to Kurt Schmidt, RRPS executive director of fine arts. Schmidt who observed Laynes classroom activity Thursday noted that arts integration does not involve students playing a musical instrument or singing the alphabet to learn their ABCs. It is about using an artform to learn another content area. (They) learn about the cycle by moving their bodies and dancing ... but theyre also learning elements of dance, Schmidt said. So, theyre mutually supportive. Were up movingHolly Silva, a first-grade teacher at Enchanted Hills, whose son attends the school, said she became aware of arts integration and Acting Right when she read the book of the same name authored by Layne. Reading gave me a good picture of why we were doing it. Seeing it this year has really changed my thinking, Silva said. Before, you were just up there (in front of the class) talking at them and there still is a piece of that but now, were up moving. Theres a different element now, and I like that. Silvas students recently learned about the digestive system by making biting motions with their hands and making a kicking motion to demonstrate waste exiting the body. Ad On Thursday, Silva watched her sons class participate in a cooperation challenge, led by Layne. Students were asked to get into different-sized groups quickly. The objective was for students to learn about collective over individual success. Layne said the activity is a precursor to arts integration. We want students dancing math and painting science and acting history, but we have to take a step back and teach students how to concentrate, cooperate, collaborate so that the artforms are successful, Layne said. Thats where we are with these two schools right now. Were establishing the behavioral literacy for the arts to thrive in the classroom. Enchanted Hills second grader Elliot Melloy said following the activity that its good to be cooperative, be calm, and have a good time at school. One of his peers, Lylah Sylvester, said being cooperative helps control your emotions (so) you dont get into fights. A good startThe approach builds on RRPSs years-long relationship with The Kennedy Centers arts integration programming, Schmidt said. But it was only more recently, after school district officials toured Denver-area schools, that Schmidt and his team went before the board of education to request financial support for arts integration. We thought Acting Right would be a good start to the arts integration work because it lays the foundation, teaching kids how to behave when ... theyre doing that work up out of their seats, Schmidt said. This arts integration programming, he added, will also help RRPS address longstanding student behavior issues. RRPS officials spent much of last school year introducing stakeholders to the concept of arts integration before even applying it in the classroom, Schmidt said. The next several years will include teachers implementing the Acting Right program and Reading Art, another Focus 5 program in which students will analyze and discuss the artistic components of pieces of art together as they learn different subjects, such as social studies. Schmidt said it remains to be seen whether arts integration will last beyond the four-year commitment, but we think this is going to be successful. Aside from achieving student outcomes, RRPS aims to have every teacher from Enchanted Hills and Sandia Vista take an arts integration workshop and online modules, Schmidt said. When the Legislature convenes for a special session starting Oct. 1, they should enact a straightforward reform that will immediately increase access to health care providers in New Mexico: Join all the interstate compacts for health care workers. These interstate compacts are agreements among states to recognize professional licenses issued by the other states participating in the compact. So, for example, a doctor licensed in Colorado could provide their license information to the New Mexico Medical Board and quickly become licensed to practice here as well. New Mexicos failure to join the compacts means that doctors from other states cannot legally care for New Mexico patients even via telehealth without going through our states licensure process. As a result, New Mexicans who desperately need access to care are forced to wait months for an appointment or travel out of state to find a doctor. Forty-three states and D.C. participate in the interstate compact for physicians, including all five states that border New Mexico. A growing majority of states also participate in compacts for psychologists, counselors, physical therapists, audiologists and speech therapists, physician assistants, dentists, and emergency medical personnel all fields where New Mexico has shortages. States that join the doctor compact experience a 10-15% increase in the number of doctors licensed in their state, based on data from the New Mexico Medical Board. Considering New Mexicos urgent and worsening doctor shortage, it is unconscionable that our state remains one of just four states that participates in one or no compacts. Meanwhile, Colorado has joined all 10 compacts; Utah is in nine; Oklahoma is in eight; Arizona is in seven; and even Texas is in five. Since 2003, New Mexico has been one of 40 states in the Nurse Licensure Compact. As many as 80% of the nurses at some New Mexico hospitals, particularly in rural and border areas, would not be practicing here if New Mexico was not in this compact. Passing the interstate compacts during the special session could be worth millions of dollars to New Mexicos rural hospitals. The U.S. Health and Human Service department just released information about how it will allocate $50 billion in federal funding that has been set aside to support rural hospitals. State applications for this one-time funding will be evaluated based on several factors including whether the state participates in the compacts for physicians, physician assistants, emergency medical personnel, nurses and psychologists. The application deadline is early November, meaning New Mexico could lose out on this funding if lawmakers do not act on the compacts during the special session. Interstate compacts are ideal bills to pass during a short special session because they simply require an up or down vote. The language cannot be materially changed because the compacts are agreements among states, and each state must agree to the same language in order to participate, similar to signing a contract. This minimizes the amount of time that lawmakers need to spend debating them. Ad Moreover, the House already unanimously passed seven of the compacts during the regular legislative session earlier this year. In addition, Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham told the Albuquerque Journal that she would like to include the compacts on the special session agenda. That leaves the Senate. During the 2025 regular session, the Senate Judiciary Committee killed six of the seven compact bills without a hearing and killed the doctor compact by making 32 amendments. The senators who oppose the compacts are trial lawyers, and their only material objection is that the compacts would not allow trial lawyers to sue the interstate commissions that oversee the compacts for their official acts. (The state board that licenses doctors has the same protection under New Mexico law.) The good news is that the New Mexico Trial Lawyers Association now says that it does not oppose the compacts, meaning that there would be no interest group lobbying against them. Meanwhile support for the compacts is broad and deep, ranging from AARP-NM to the Department of Defense to Patients Primero to medical providers themselves. Both Planned Parenthood of the Rocky Mountains and the Conference of Catholic Bishops have endorsed the doctor compact because both are struggling to staff their health care clinics. New Mexicans should not have to wait any longer for this commonsense reform to increase access to health care and maximize New Mexicos chances of receiving urgently needed funding for our rural hospitals. Please visit thinknewmexico.org to contact your elected officials and urge them to pass all of the interstate compacts for health care workers during this years special session. Woodside Energy Group Ltd (NYSE:WDS) is one of the best dividend stocks to buy. As of August 19, Woodside Energy has been holding discussions with potential partners, including Saudi Aramco, which suggests that it could keep as much as 80% of the holding company for its $17.5 billion Louisiana LNG project in the United States. According to CEO Meg ONeill, Woodside plans to sell 20% to 30% of the Louisiana LNG project, which came with its $900 million acquisition of Tellurian the prior year. There have been discussions for months now, and in April, the firm gave the go-ahead for construction before settling on the sale of any shares in the holding company. Woodside Energy (WDS) Expected to Maintain up to 80% Interest in Louisiana LNG Project A stock market graph. Photo by energepic.com The CEO mentioned that WDS is in no hurry to make the sale. One reason for the companys careful approach is its $5.7 billion agreement with Stonepeak, which took a 40% stake in the firm that controls the Louisiana LNG infrastructure. The agreement means Stonepeak will finance 75% of the projects capital costs in 2025 and 2026. Woodside Energy Group Ltd (NYSE:WDS) works in oil and gas exploration, production, and sales across the Asia Pacific, Africa, the Americas, and Europe. While we acknowledge the potential of WDS as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock. READ NEXT: Dow 20 Stocks List: Ranked By Hedge Fund Bullishness Index and 10 Unstoppable Dividend Stocks to Buy Now. Disclosure. None. Finding cheap car insurance in Florida can be a challenge. The Sunshine State has long been one of the most expensive states to buy car insurance. The cheapest car insurance in Florida varies based on multiple criteria. Your driving record, credit history, ZIP code, miles driven, age, gender, and vehicle make and model can all influence your auto insurance rates. Thats why drivers should get multiple car insurance quotes to find the best price. To simplify comparison shopping, Yahoo Finance has identified some of the cheapest car insurance rates in Florida using data from Trellis, an insurance technology company that operates the auto insurance marketplace Savvy. Learn more: How does car insurance work? The basics explained. In this article: Cheapest full coverage car insurance in Florida Full coverage car insurance meets your state's minimum coverage requirements and includes comprehensive coverage and collision insurance. If you finance or lease your vehicle, your lender will likely require that you maintain full coverage, which covers damages to your vehicle. The companies below offer some of the cheapest full coverage car insurance rates in Florida. Learn more: What is full coverage car insurance? Cheapest liability-only car insurance in Florida If you own your older vehicle outright, you may only need liability-only coverage. Liability-only car insurance is cheaper than full coverage insurance, but it only covers the damage you cause to other vehicles and property. Liability-only requires you to pay the full costs of repairing or replacing your car if its damaged in a crash, by bad weather, or is stolen. If you only need basic coverage in Florida, the carriers below offer some of the cheapest car insurance rates. Learn more: What is liability insurance and how much do you need? Cheapest car insurance for teens in Florida Not surprisingly, teen drivers are expensive to insure due to their lack of experience behind the wheel. According to the CDC, teens aged 16-19 are more likely to get into a serious auto accident than any other age group. Though its possible for teenagers to get stand-alone coverage, its usually far cheaper for a parent to add a teen driver to their policy. To find the cheapest car insurance for teens in Florida, look for a carrier that offers several discounts, like one for good grades or completing an approved drivers education course. The following companies offer some of the cheapest car insurance for teens in Florida. Learn more: How to get the most affordable car insurance for your teen driver Cheapest car insurance for senior drivers in Florida Seniors tend to enjoy relatively low auto rates due to their driving experience. But by age 70, you may see your auto insurance rates tilt upward again because of being at a higher risk of a crash. Fortunately, senior drivers in Florida have several ways to lower their premiums, including driver safety courses. Below are car insurers that offer some of the cheapest car insurance rates for seniors in Florida. Learn more: Car insurance for seniors: How to get the best rates Cheapest car insurance for good drivers in Florida Safe drivers in Florida qualify for the best insurance rates due to their clean record and ability to qualify for good driver discounts. Most insurers define good drivers as those who havent had any at-fault accidents or moving violations within the last three years. Below, youll find some of the cheapest car insurance rates for good drivers in Florida. Cheapest car insurance with one at-fault accident in Florida Your insurance will increase by 30% to 70% following an at-fault accident, and the accident will stay on your record for about three years. Important reminder: In Florida, insurers cant raise your premiums solely because you filed a Personal Injury Protection (PIP) claim for a crash you didnt cause. Consider the companies below if youre looking for the cheapest car insurance with one at-fault accident in Florida. Learn more: How much does car insurance increase after an accident? Cheapest car insurance with one speeding ticket in Florida Under Floridas point system, a speeding ticket typically results in three points on your drivers license; 12 points within 12 months can result in a 30-day suspension. Points stay on your driving record for at least five years in Florida, according to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. If youve had a speeding ticket in Florida, look to these companies for some of the cheapest car insurance. Learn more: How does a speeding ticket impact your car insurance? How to get the cheapest car insurance in Florida Car insurance can be a substantial expense, no matter where you live. Drivers can get the cheapest car insurance in Florida by following these tips. Tip 1: Determine your coverage needs Opting for liability-only coverage that meets your state minimums (and nothing more) may be sufficient if you dont own significant assets, like a home, and you have an older vehicle that isnt worth much. But the cheapest car insurance isnt always the best choice. You need to always consider how financially prepared you are to repair or replace your vehicle following an accident. Full coverage, including comprehensive and collision insurance, in addition to add-ons like roadside assistance, can provide more financial peace of mind because your vehicle and your wallet are protected from a variety auto-related dangers. Learn more: Most common types of car insurance explained Tip 2: Get multiple quotes It pays to get quotes from several companies to make sure youre getting the cheapest and most complete coverage you can. Look for insurers that provide discounts for your specific circumstances, and offer the kind of service and accessibility you need. An independent insurance agent can be a helpful resource when youre comparison shopping. They dont work for any single carrier, so they can get quotes from multiple companies that fit your needs. Learn more: How to shop for car insurance Tip 3: Increase your deductibles Your deductible is the amount you have to pay out of pocket before your insurance kicks in. Raising your deductible saves you money on premiums but make sure you can afford to pay your deductible in case you need to file a claim. Learn more: What you need to know about car insurance deductibles Tip 4: Consider bundling policies Many insurers offer discounts for bundling multiple policies. You may save money if you buy homeowners insurance or renters insurance from the same company. If your household has multiple vehicles, youll often lower your premiums by insuring them through the same company. Learn more: Bundle home and auto insurance: Be sure its the best deal Tip 5: Review your coverage annually Reviewing your policy and coverage needs at least once a year is a smart way to make sure youre getting the cheapest car insurance. If your financial situation has changed for example, if youve bought a home or increased your income you may need to up your coverage. But if youve retired or youve gone from commuting to working from home, you may be driving less, so perhaps you can lock in a lower rate. Learn more: How much car insurance do I need? Even if youre satisfied with your current car insurance company, its still a good idea to get quotes from several insurers. Doing so can help you find additional discounts that save you even more money on your premiums. Tim Manni edited this article. Methodology Unless stated otherwise, the estimates above are generated by Trellis in-house machine learning models based on over 3 million data points, and include more than 15 of the largest insurance companies in Trellis nationwide data set. This includes data from more than 2 million insurance accounts connected through Trellis Connect, an in-house technology allowing consumers to link their insurance accounts before searching for insurance, and tens of thousands of policies bound by Trellis own agents. It takes into account a myriad of factors to create predictions, such as: Policyholder age Number of vehicles ZIP code Vehicle age Insurer and more Trellis creates estimates by running models against multiple inputs to the parameters of interest. For instance, the teen driver estimates were created by adjusting the policyholder age input into the pricing model while keeping all other variables steady from the baseline for full coverage. The models enable hyper-personalized estimates that take into account a plethora of user attribute permutations (e.g., teen drivers in specific states, teen drivers with new vehicles, teen drivers in specific states with new vehicles) to provide individuals with a unique and tailored experience. The charts above are a subset of the kinds of personalization Trellis can do. Definitions The following are definitions used by Trellis when providing its rate estimates for various types of coverage: Full coverage car insurance: A policy with comprehensive, collision, and liability coverage Average policyholder: A 48-year-old driver who owns a 13-year-old vehicle and lives in an average-income ZIP code Senior driver: A 70-year-old policyholder with full coverage car insurance Good driver: Drivers across all coverage types, vehicle types, and locations who have no tickets, accidents or DUIs Jaguar Land Rover has been rescued with a 1.5bn government-backed loan after it stopped manufacturing following a cyber attack. The cash injection will allow JLR to support its supply chain after firms warned of mass layoffs and collapse following the halt to production. Rachel Reeves, the Chancellor, said: "Jaguar Land Rover is an iconic British company which employs tens of thousands of people a jewel in the crown of our economy. "Today we are protecting thousands of those jobs with up to 1.5bn in additional private finance, helping them support their supply chain and protect a vital part of the British car industry." - The Telegraph British-made drones will be deployed to create a "drone wall" to protect Nato from Russian aggression, the Defence Secretary has revealed. The new low-cost unmanned craft, developed in collaboration with Ukraine, are part of a new strategy to deter Vladimir Putin's jets and drones on the alliance's eastern flank. European ministers are concerned about a spate of Russian incursions into Polish and Estonian airspace, which prompted Britain to deploy RAF Typhoons over Poland in a show of force to Moscow. A suspected Russian "hybrid" incursion of drones this week took place in Denmark and Norway. On Saturday, it was reported that overnight, unidentified drones were seen over the Karlskrona archipelago in Sweden, a few miles from a naval base. Residents of the islands of Sturko and Tjurko reported the drones and police upon arriving at the scene spotted one of them, the report said. - The Telegraph Revolut is considering a dual listing in New York and London for its blockbuster share sale in a move that would provide a major boost for the City. The willingness of payment app Revolut to consider London as a destination for a listing worth at least $75bn would appear to demonstrate a thawing in the attitude of founder Nik Storonsky, who has previously downplayed his appetite to float in London. A senior City source said the idea of a dual listing for Revolut was being "widely discussed" in financial circles. If such a deal were to take place, it would make history as the first time a company has simultaneously listed in New York and entered London's flagship FTSE 100 index. With a valuation of about 55bn, it would be one of the 15 most valuable companies in London. - The Times Labour's hopes of clinging on to power have been dealt a blow with new evidence that millions of older voters would rather live in a country where Nigel Farage is prime minister. The Labour faithful are gathering for their annual conference in Liverpool, with the vast majority of Britons thinking they are pushing the country in the wrong direction. The party has been rocked by the resignation of Angela Rayner as Deputy Prime Minister and the exit of Lord Mandelson as US ambassador. New Ipsos polling shows the lion's share of voters do not think the Labour Government is acting with competence or integrity. The finding that 67% of Britons think the Government is doing a "bad job" on reducing the cost of living will trigger alarm bells. - The Express A popular department store has returned to the UK after 25 years, but with one key difference. Rackhams, the luxury department store founded in Birmingham, has made its return as a digital-only store. Rackhams was originally founded in 1881 by John Rackham and William Matthews. In the 1950s, it was Harrods and then House of Fraser, and during the 1970s, the name was used for stores across the Midlands and Northern England. The store was eventually closed in 2000. According to Rackhams, the branch relaunched in 2023 as a new online Marketplace. "At Rackhams, our marketplace-first approach is not a side project it is the business," CEO Mark Jordan told the Retail Gazette. - The Independent The government is expected to announce on Sunday a programme to build 12 new towns across England in a bid to address the country's housing crisis. The housing secretary, Steve Reed, will unveil the initiative at Labours annual conference as it begins in Liverpool. The prime minister, Keir Starmer, described the proposals as "national renewal in action". It comes as the new towns taskforce, established in September last year, publishes a report with a raft of recommendations for fresh developments across the country. Labour is keen to present the proposals as a rejection of what it sees as the "quick fix" politics of Reform. Reed will tell delegates that the project is modelled on the "housing boom" overseen by Clement Attlee's postwar Labour government, which built more than one million homes between 1945 and 1951. Reed's project will rely on public and private funding but the total anticipated cost is unclear. The taskforce is expected to say that, collectively, the new towns could deliver "up to 300,000" homes over the "coming decades". - The Guardian Rock legend Ace Frehley is taking a brief pause from touring after a minor studio mishap. According to a post on Frehleys Facebook page, the rock guitar legend had to cancel a show as part of his 10,000 Volts Tour on a doctors order after suffering a minor fall in his recording studio. Dear Rock Soldiers, Ace had a minor fall in his studio, resulting in a trip to the hospital, the post reads. He is fine, but against his wishes, his doctor insists that he refrain from travel at this time. Frehleys performance at the Antelope Valley Fair in Lancaster, California, was canceled. It was set for Friday. The post encouraged fans to go to the fair and support his friends in the rock bands Quiet Riot and Vixen. The post also said that Frehley looks forward to continuing his tour and his work on the next album, Origins, Vol. 3. Frehley, 74, a founding member of the rock band Kiss, is set to resume his tour on October 10 in Decatur, Illinois. According to Guitar Players online site, Frehley has a history of falling during his tenure with makeup-clad Kiss, sometimes intentionally, and sometimes not. As part of the Kiss show, he would perform in high-heeled boots that would frequently cause him to trip up and take spills onstage. Whenever it happened, his bandmates Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley would begin playing over him, as if the entire episode was planned, according to the website. I used to fall a lot in those boots, Frehley told Music Radar. A lot of times, Paul would cover for me by walking over to me like it was part of the show. He made it look like was choreography or something. According to the report, Frehley damaged his knees by falling on them while performing. This often took place during the bands performance of Black Diamond, and while he was holding his Les Paul guitar. Kiss performing on stage, circa 1977. Left to right: Gene Simmons, Ace Frehley and Paul Stanley. Getty Images I screwed my knees up by doing that, Frehley is quoted as saying. I would drop to my knees and the weight of that Les Paul really killed them. Frehley was the lead guitarist with Kiss during the bands formation and through its 70s heyday, from 1973-1982. He rejoined the Kiss in 1996, for its reunion tour and continued with them until 2002. His persona with KISS was that of the spaced-out Spaceman. On stage, he was known for his laid-back demeanor, fiery guitar solos, and signature smoking, light-up guitar effects, which became iconic in KISSs live shows. His slurred speech and eccentric humor added to his space cadet charm, making him a fan favorite. He also had the most successful and critically acclaimed of the four Kiss solo albums that were released in 1978, thanks in part to the song, New York Groove. Kiss was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2014. The band will be celebrated in December with a lifetime achievement award at the Kennedy Center Honors. President Donald Trump, chairman of the Kennedy Center, will present the band with the award during the December 7 show in Washington, D.C. It will be later broadcast on CBS at 7:30 p.m. on December 22. The Yankee Doodle Tap Room at the Nassau Inn in Princeton is home to a mural-sized painting by Norman Rockwell. The mural, which hangs over the bar depicts Yankee Doodle riding his pony. The tap room has been completely renovated by local integrated design firm JZA+D, whose architects performed the update while leaving its most iconic element unmoved. Courtesy A beloved New Jersey tavern nestled in a hotel stretching back more than 250 years has just earned national recognition as one of the best historic bars in the United States. The Yankee Doodle Tap Room located inside Nassau Inn in Princeton was featured on Historic Hotels of Americas list of the top 25 most historic bars, taverns and speakeasies list. The inn opened its doors in 1756 and has been a gathering place for many locals, Princeton University students and visitors for years. The bar itself was built in 1937. The Nassau Inns Yankee Doodle Tap Room, a legendary Princeton tavern, has been completely renovated by local design firm JZA+D, whose architects performed the update while leaving its most iconic element unmoved: a mural-sized painting by Norman Rockwell over the bar, depicting Yankee Doodle riding his pony. The website mentions the famous 13-foot mural titled Yankee Doodle that hangs behind the taverns bar. The artwork was done by Norman Rockwell to honor Princetons part in the Revolution. The mural depicts Yankee Doodle, feather firmly in cap as he rides his pony into Princeton, much to the mockery of British troops in all their red-coated finery. The tap room also portrays a wall with several senior portraits of memorable Princeton University alumni. Yankee Doodle Tap Room is open everyday from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. offering American pub classics for breakfast, lunch and dinner along with a weekend brunch. Nassau Inn also received recognition by the website in 2024 when they were inducted into Historic Hotels of America. You like to sleep in sometimes in the morning, especially on the weekend? Or maybe you like to take a late-afternoon nap after doing some yardwork. Good luck with that. I tried to catch some extra shuteye one day last week. When the alarm went off at 7 a.m., I reset it for 9 a.m. And I think I actually did get maybe another 45 minutes of sleep. Until the landscapers arrived somewhere within hearing distance. You know what that means: the calm-shattering roar of leaf blowers. Its not just the noise from the leaf blowers. Its the fact that the people using them rev them up really loud, then throttle them back to a lower but still-annoying volume, then crank them up again. Then the leaf blowers will fall silent. You think youre saved. But then they roar back up again. After the landscapers had departed I heard the low, grating, whistle-like whine from what looks to be a brick re-pointing job being done on the apartment building around the block from me. Its a subtle, piercing noise, like a dentists drill, that gets right inside your head. It would be a good sound to use if you want to torture captives. How do I know what the noise was? Because after hearing it for a day or two recently, I walked around the neighborhood until I found the source. It makes it a little better that I know the actual cause of the noise. A little better. And can we talk about cars and motorcycles? I dont know whos driving like a drag-racer in my general vicinity at night, but I can hear them. I can hear their fart-fart engines that snap, crackle and pop like firecrackers as they blaze by. I can hear cars and motorcycles at night when Im trying to sleep and theyre the only thing disturbing the quiet. I can hear them even after theyve left my neighborhood and are driving miles away. The sound carries. I live in the Stapleton hills. So on spring, summer and fall weekends, I hear a lot of music coming from down below. It could be from a home, a park or the waterfront. I generally dont mind it. Its part of the community. But it did get on my nerves last weekend, when some outdoor party was still raging at 3 a.m. on Sunday morning. Lately, Ive been hearing the dreaded helicopter noise. It could be from the tourist choppers that take off from New Jersey and buzz us on their way to showing off the sites of the city. Or it could be traffic from the U.N. General Assembly. The tourist choppers fly under rules that mean theyre not subject to air-traffic control. Its up to them to fly friendly and to refrain from flying so low that the noise becomes an irritant. Staten Islanders havent seen very robust enforcement of that stricture. Stopping the choppers is like whack-a-mole: curb their hours of operation or outright close a heliport, as New York City has done in the past, and the choppers just move to a more accommodating locale. Like New Jersey. If one area of Staten Island complains loud enough, the choppers just adjust their flight path north or south until people in that community complain. Then they adjust again. Back when I lived in apartments, both in Manhattan and on Staten Island, the noise from my neighbors would drive me nuts. Im sure I aggravated them too. I dreamed of having my own house and having peace and quiet because I wouldnt be sharing walls and floors and ceilings with anybody else. It hasnt quite worked out that way. National Geographic just confirmed what locals have always known: Upstate New York offers fall experiences that rival anything in New England. If youre looking to avoid the crowded leaf-peeping hotspots the magazine suggests turning to unexpected but equally beautiful fall destinations across the U.S., including Upstate New York. The list names places such as Big Bear, California, and Washington, D.C., but for those who live here, Upstate New York is anything but unexpected. Each year, hundreds of thousands of visitors travel north to take in the autumn hues. Its also the perfect season to visit an apple orchard, take a fall foliage train ride, pedal a rail bike, or bite into a hot cider doughnut. National Geographic highlighted three destinations in New York where travelers can enjoy brilliant fall color with fewer crowds: Photo taken at the edge of Heart Lake on Sept. 15, 2024 in the Adirondack Mountains. William Adamczack | @wadamczakphoto on Instagram William Adamczack | @wadamczakphoto on Instagram Adirondacks Covering six million acres, the Adirondacks boast one of the longest fall foliage seasons in the country, according to the magazine. Peak color has already begun this week, just days into the official season, thanks to dry weather speeding up the display. Great hikes this time of year, according to Whiteface Lodges director of sales, include High Falls Gorge, a tourist attraction, and Cobble Lookout in Wilmington, as well as Hurricane Mountain in the High Peaks. Fall colors on Doe Brook Road, Delaware County in the Catskill Mountains. Michael Greenlar | mgreenlar@syracuse.com Catskills Highlighted with a photo of popular Kaaterskill Falls, the list suggests taking on the 26-mile Catskill Scenic Trail which sits atop part of the former Hubbell Corners-Bloomville segment of the Delaware & Ulster Railroad. The Highmount to Roxbury segment is still being utilized by trains for scenic rail rides. Another favorite is Bramley Mountain and its historic fire tower in the Western Catskills. Its where colors spread out across fields and mountains for miles, Ann Roberti, president of Friends of Bramley Mountain Fire Tower, told NatGeo. Westchester County While its not traditionally considered part of our Upstate New York map, Westchester County also earned a mention as an underappreciated gem. A fall drive here takes you through rolling hills and beneath canopies of deciduous trees made for the perfect for a Sunday outing. Mayor Eric Adams announces the NYPD's new Quality of Life Division at a press conference at the Park Hill Apartments in Clifton on Monday, Aug. 18, 2025. (Advance/SILive.com | Jason Paderon) Mayor Eric Adams said Sunday he will not seek a second term as the leader of New York City, ending his re-election bid. In a video posted to X, Adams cited financial hurdles and persistent negative press as reasons why hes ending his ffort. The campaign had stalled in recent weeks after Adams was repeatedly denied public matching funds and consistently polled last in the four-way race, according to amNY. Despite all weve achieved, I cannot continue my re-election campaign, he said, seated on the Gracie Mansion steps beside a portrait of his late mother. In the now viral video, Adams listed his accomplishments, such as record-low crime rates and a surge in housing development. Adams also warned the public against political extremism, urging voters to choose leaders based on results, not rhetoric. Only in America. Only in New York. Thank you for making my story a reality. pic.twitter.com/efHuyBnITJ Eric Adams (@ericadamsfornyc) September 28, 2025 With Adams out, the race has narrowed to Democrat Zohran Mamdani, Republican Curtis Sliwa, and independent Andrew Cuomo. The announcement follows reports that the Trump administration had approached both Adams and Sliwa with job offers urging them to exit the race, according to amNY. Adams denied the claims in early September. After a warm Sunday with near-record highs, residents should prepare for a substantial cooling trend with winds shifting northeast and gusts reaching 25 mph midweek. The sunrise is shown from Todt Hill on the morning of Friday, Sept. 26, 2025. (Advance/SILive.com | Jan Somma-Hammel) The National Weather Service forecasts a warm Sunday with temperatures well above normal, followed by a gradual cooling trend early next week. Residents can expect decreasing clouds and dry conditions throughout the day. The morning will start with temperatures climbing quickly, with highs potentially approaching record levels. According to the National Weather Service, temperatures will be well above normal, with light winds shifting to sea breezes by the afternoon. By Sunday evening, a weak cold front will pass through the area, bringing slightly cooler air overnight. A significant temperature drop is anticipated for Tuesday and Wednesday. The National Weather Service predicts temperatures will fall from the warm 70s to potentially only reaching the mid-60s by Thursday. Overnight lows could dip into the upper 30s and lower 40s for inland areas, with New York City experiencing temperatures near 50 degrees. The upcoming week will feature predominantly dry conditions with occasional high clouds. Winds will shift to the northeast, becoming slightly brisker on Wednesday and Thursday, with gusts potentially reaching 25 mph. Residents should prepare for a noticeable change from the weekends warm temperatures to a more autumn-like feel. By Friday and Saturday, temperatures are expected to rebound to near normal, providing a brief respite before potential further cooling. A draft of this story was generated using AI. It was reviewed, edited and approved by Advance/SILive.com staff. Brandon Szyszkiewicz, 26, of Wisconsin, was charged with five counts of first-degree rape and one count of endangering the welfare of a child. Town of Seneca Falls Police Department Seneca Falls, N.Y. - A Wisconsin man, using a fake name, connected online with a 12-year-old girl from Onondaga County and started chatting with her. Later, the man and the girl shared explicit photos. The man then drove to Central New York and picked up the girl in the middle of the night and took her to a hotel in the Finger Lakes, where he raped her. On Friday, Onondaga County Sheriff Toby Shelley shared those new details with Syracuse.com | The Post-Standard following the arrest of the man. Court papers also provide more information. Brandon T. Szyszkiewicz, 26, of South Milwaukee, was charged Thursday by Seneca Falls Police with five counts of first-degree rape, all felonies, and one count of endangering the welfare of a child, a misdemeanor. Szyszkiewicz drove from Wisconsin to the girls home in Onondaga County, arriving at around 2 a.m. Friday, Sept. 12, Shelley said. The girls mother woke up at around 6:30 a.m. and called the police when she realized her daughter was not home, the sheriff said. Szyszkiewicz and the girl met and had been communicating over the instant messaging platform Discord, where he was using a pseudonym, Shelley said. They had exchanged explicit photos of each other in their chats, he said. Szyszkiewicz and the girl walked into the Lux Hotel at 2468 Route 414 at approximately 4:10 a.m., according to hotel workers statement to Seneca police officers in court papers. Brandon T. Szyszkiewicz, 26, of South Milwaukee, Wisconsin, groomed a 12-year-old Onondaga County girl online before luring her to the Lux Hotel in Seneca Falls on Friday, Sept. 12, 2025. Google Image The employee said that when she told Szyszkiewicz they only had 2-bed rooms available, he asked if that was all they had, which she believed meant he was looking to share a bed with the girl, according to the court documents. Hotel staff who were suspicious of Szyszkiewicz said they took photos of the vehicle identification number on his car before notifying the general manager at around 8:45 a.m., according to court documents. Officers arrived at the hotel and arrested Szyszkiewicz shortly after 8:45 a.m., according to court documents. Shelley said he does not believe the girl was Szyszkiewiczs first victim. The FBI is involved in the investigation because it could span several states, Shelley said. The FBI has confiscated all of Szyszkiewiczs electronic equipment after searching his house in Milwaukee, he said. Szyszkiewicz was first held at the Onondaga County Justice Center on other charges, including custodial interference, endangering the welfare of a child, luring a child and possession of obscene sexual material. He later was arraigned in Seneca County on the rape charges. He is being held on $250,000 bail or a $500,000 bond. He is scheduled to appear in Seneca Falls Town Court at a later date. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. On a busy curve of Richmond Road in the heart of Dongan Hills, youll find one of the oldest houses in New York City and state. Tucked between a bank and a pizzeria, sitting silently behind an S74 bus stop and across from a recently installed speed camera, the white stone home with deep red shutters is quaint, picturesque and unassuming its modest and weather-worn exterior belying the fact that it is an important survivor of American Colonial architecture. Its an important facet of Staten Island history too, a rare space where glimpses of New York City as backdrop for the American Revolution remain visible. But despite the best efforts of some of the boroughs cultural institutions and educational non-profits, the structure is quietly crumbling from the inside out. The structure is located at 1476 Richmond Road and consists of several distinct parts the original residence, constructed in 1663 by Pierre Billiou, a native of French Flanders who arrived here in 1661 and three abutting additions which were built between 1680 and 1830 as the homes occupancy expanded. STATEN ISLAND ADVANCE This home is thought to be the only example of French medieval architecture in North America, noted Jessica Phillips, CEO of Historic Richmond Town, detailing how centuries of history can be told through the lens of this structure and its property. It serves as an incredible resource for our nations history, but its currently not safe enough for people to visit and explore. Like any home, it needs constant care; and the older a home gets, the more serious that care becomes. But now thanks to a congressional grant, some city capital funding and a recent $500,000 boost from New York state the house will soon be restored and once again opened to the general public. Located at 1476 Richmond Road in Dongan Hills, the Billliou-Stillwell-Perine House is considered the oldest structure in Staten Island and one of the oldest homes in New York State. (Courtesy of the Staten Island Historical Society) (Courtesy of the Staten Island H This house has stood here on this spot witnessing the entirety of American history and the stories that this house can tell are not important just to Staten Island, theyre important to the nation, Phillips said during a press conference on Thursday, September 25, when Sen. Jessica Scarcella-Spanton presented Historic Richmond Town with the final piece of funding needed for the preservation. And this house deserves to stand here for another three centuries telling those stories. Dubbed the Billiou-Stillwell-Perine House in honor of three prominent Staten Island families whove resided there, the structure is located at 1476 Richmond Road and consists of several distinct parts the original residence, constructed in 1663 by Pierre Billiou, a native of French Flanders who arrived here in 1661 and three abutting additions, which were built between 1680 and 1830 as the homes occupancy expanded. Wooden siding on the home's abutting additions is in need of repair or replacement. STATEN ISLAND ADVANCE I think so many Staten Islanders drive by this house on a daily basis and have no idea about the history that this property holds, Phillips said. All of the people who have come and gone through those doors; the events that took place under that one roof. Billiou and his family lived there when the English took control of Staten Islands first permanent settlement in 1664, Phillips explained. Thomas Stillwell, husband of Pierre Billious daughter Martha, was part of the English political system during the colonial period, serving as constable, sheriff, magistrate, and member of the Colonial Assembly. Replacing the deteriorated wood rafters and sill plates in the oldest portion of the building is also a priority, as is carefully monitoring a bowed wall on the east elevation of the earliest portion of the house. STATEN ISLAND ADVANCE During the American Revolution, Ann Perine (nee Holmes) lived in the house with her seven children. It is documented that British troops occupied the property during that time, cutting down many of Perines trees and even attempting to confiscate her silver shoe buckles - events which are detailed in the Perine family letters secured in the archives at Historic Richmond Town. A look at the interior of the home as it existed in the early 1900s. (Courtesy of the Staten Island Historical Society) (Courtesy of the Staten Island H Such details of the homes history are well respected and carefully preserved: In 1915, the property was purchased by the Staten Island Antiquarian Society in recognition of the houses importance in telling the story of New Yorks early history. In 1922 the Antiquarian Society merged with the Staten Island Historical Society, and since that time the Historical Society has maintained the house with the assistance of resident caretakers. This home is thought to be the only example of French medieval architecture in North America, noted Jessica Phillips, CEO of Historic Richmond Town, seen here during a tour of the home. STATEN ISLAND ADVANCE The building was designated an official New York City landmark in 1967 and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1976. In 2013, Historic Richmond Town raised funds for a new roof with the help of the Richmond County Savings Foundation and the Staten Island Advance. The Perine and Stillwell Coat of Arms. Courtesy of Historic Richmond Town An extensive historic structures research report was compiled in 2017, detailing the repairs necessary to keep this piece of Staten Island history alive. The report defines the house as the only remaining architectural evidence of the first permanent settlement on Staten Island a place where glimpses of New York Citys earliest history remain visible. The open Dutch fireplace in the Billiou portion of the house has neither jambs nor sides. STATEN ISLAND ADVANCE The Billiou-Stillwell-Perine House has potential to serve as an educational setting for thousands of school children each year, as well as serving the general public, notes the 100+ page document prepared by Page Ayres Cowley Architecture, LLC, for the Staten Island Historical Society. Students studying colonial life, the American Revolution, and the early years of the republic can all gain a stronger understanding of life during that time by visiting a house that was a home to Staten Islanders representing a variety of backgrounds and livelihoods. Themes, such as home and family life, civic engagement, immigration and diversity, and land use, can all be explored through programming developed specifically for this setting. Students studying colonial life, the American Revolution, and the early years of the republic can all gain a stronger understanding of life during that time by visiting a house that was a home to Staten Islanders representing a variety of backgrounds and livelihoods," notes a research report about the property that was compiled in 2017. STATEN ISLAND ADVANCE As would be expected in a structure of this age, there are critical restoration needs to be addressed before this building can be opened to the public, the report continues. Transcription of 1685 Land Survey by Phillip Welles, Surveyor General of the Province of New York, found among Edward Perine Tysens possessions. The survey includes additional land that Stillwell appears to have owned. Image was taken from Charles Gilbert Hines The Story and Documentary History of the Perine House. Courtesy of Historic Richmond Town Most of the original floor joists in the two earliest sections of the building are seriously deteriorated and need to be replaced, and support for the floorboards needs to be strengthened, the report says. Replacing the deteriorated wood rafters and sill plates in the oldest portion of the building is also a priority, as is carefully monitoring a bowed wall on the east elevation of the earliest portion of the house. The American History House Restoration Project aims to fully restore the Perine house for the use of public education. Currently, the building is not open to the public. STATEN ISLAND ADVANCE Addressing these issues, as well as the other preservation issues addressed in detail within the report, will help to secure the future of the building and make it safe for public visitation, the report notes. In future phases, attention to plumbing and heating systems and improvements to accessibility can help support increased usage without compromising the historical integrity of this remarkable structure. Preservation architects and structural engineers have created lists of dozens of items, laid out in three phases, that must be undertaken to keep this structure sound and open to the public. STATEN ISLAND ADVANCE Preservation architects and structural engineers have created lists of dozens of items, laid out in three phases, that must be undertaken to keep this structure sound and open to the public. Structural elements, like floor joists and ceiling beams, need the most immediate attention with other restorations assigned in layers. Such repairs are estimated at $3 million or more. Structural elements like floor joists and ceiling beams need the most immediate attention with other restorations like these exterior shutters assigned in layers. STATEN ISLAND ADVANCE The initial grant request to Congress needed to be expanded beyond just the Perine House to be fundable, Phillips noted, detailing how the request was expanded to include the Britton Cottage, another historic Staten Island property. The house has undergone several restorations during its lifespan, one of which is documented here. (Courtesy of the Staten Island Historical Society) (Courtesy of the Staten Island H That expansion allowed Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis to secure a Save Americas Treasures (SAT) grant for $1.5 million to restore both borough properties. The Britton Cottage needed an additional $2,103,000 in order to be fully funded and start the project moving through the city capital system and those funds were recently obtained by Councilmember David Carr, Phillips explained. Sen. Scarcella-Spantons funding helped match the $1.5 million SAT grant. This house needs and deserves this restoration, Jessica Phillips, CEO of Historic Richmond Town noted. The property needs to be properly preserved so that its history can live on for generations to come. STATEN ISLAND ADVANCE And while none of the Britton money will directly fund the Perine restoration, Phillips noted, some of it will be used to help secure the totality of the match for the $1.5 million. The BilliouStillwellPerine House is considered the oldest standing building on Staten Island and one of the oldest home in New York State. STATEN ISLAND ADVANCE This house needs and deserves this restoration, Phillips concluded. The property needs to be properly preserved so that its history can live on for generations to come. These contributions will help preserve this rare example of French medieval architecture and ensure its stories are shared with future generations. Hi Neighbor, I was intrigued the other day when I heard a voice accompanying a snippet of video on SILive.com. They cant come up with a plan for any issue on Staten Island that doesnt involve bike lanes, said the voice. Bike lanes. Grrrrr. They send me into a tailspin the way Niagara Falls does in the old Abbott and Costello skit. (With apologies to the non-Baby Boomers. I know you have no idea what Im talking about. YouTube it.) They is the Department of Transportation. Surprised? The voice belonged to our mid-Island city councilman, David Carr. Assemblymember Michael Tannousis (at podium) along with (from left) George Tormo of the Midland Beach Civic Association, Councilmember David Carr, State Sen. Andrew Lanza, State Sen. Jessica Scarcella-Spanton, and Sal Monforte from the Midland Beach Civic Association, speak in opposition of a DOT redesign on Father Capodanno Boulevard in Midland Beach on Tuesday, Sept. 16 2025. Advance/SILive.com | Mike Matteo David, along with three state elected representatives Sen. Andrew Lanza, Assembly Michael Tannousis and Sen. Jessica Scarcella Spanton were so outraged they staged a press conference on a stretch of Capodanno Boulevard between Midland Avenue and Miller Field, where southbound autos can make a right on Lincoln Avenue, enter Miller Field (when the gates open), or jug handle back north toward the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge. And they brought two members of the Midland Beach Civic Association along for support. What has them so twisted is a Department of Transportation initiative to create a bike lane along the short stretch, reducing the roadway from two lanes to one. As any occasional reader of these weekly missives might recall, this is my childhood stomping grounds. I was unaware of the departments latest plan to sabotage Staten Island drivers and had to see it for myself. Sure enough, the Department of Transportation painting crew had a cluster of white lines all over the roadway. Straight lines. Horizontal lines. Curved lines fashioned into arrows. Lines on an angle. Solid lines. Broken lines. Some lines even form the word ONLY, ordering us to keep moving, or turn left. Our choice. Im no rule-breaker, so followed the lines and arrows as ordered, opting to keep moving toward the bridge. Move on I did, into the middle lane at Midland Avenue, with a bus lane to my right, until I reached a red traffic signal at Hunter Avenue and Capodanno. As I sat there for five, perhaps ten, seconds, I could hear a vehicle approaching on the left. A gray SUV, it blew by me and through the steady red light, going at least 60 mph. My SUV rocked a bit from the wind gust it created. I dont disagree with our city and state representatives. The Department of Transportation experiment on the little-used, short section of Capodanno is ridiculous. And they better not be thinking of extending it to the rest of Capodanno. But wed all be better served if we turn our attention, and press conferences, to lunatics like the driver of the gray SUV, who should be charged with attempted murder when they blow through red lights in their 4,000-pound deadly weapons. There was an old joke about New Jersey drivers: Red lights are only a suggestion. On Staten Island, its not a joke. Take this, traffic camera-haters: If I was in charge, thered be a cop or red-light camera at every Staten Island traffic signal from Tottenville to St. George. Near Olympia & Seaview Avenue. Nov. 7, 2024. (Staten Island Advance/Somma-Hammel) Jan Somma-Hammel If its the layout of our roadways that rankles us, there are plenty of streets on Staten Island that need more attention than the stretch of road at the end of Capodanno. Lets consider Seaview Avenue between Capodanno and Hylan boulevards, just a mile-or-so away. The street serves the South Beach Psychiatric Center and Staten Island University Hospital. Have you seen it? Have you tried to drive it? The Department of Transportation really went berserk on this mile-long stretch. There was a time, pre-1980s, when Seaview Avenue was a low-lying two-lane road between Capodanno and Hylan, which was just fine because the land where the hospitals now sit housed bungalows or swamps. Transportation experts back then realized a lane in each direction was not a good idea with two major hospitals within a half-mile stretch. So they doubled the size of the road. Those planners still around must be scratching their heads. Each direction of the 2025 Seaview Avenue now features one travel lane, a parking lane, a five-foot buffer zone, and the Islands first protected bike lanes bordering the curb. The parking lane is practically in the middle of the street. One reader told us he witnessed an ambulance with siren blaring heading to SIUH, blocked by someone trying to parallel park in this ridiculous setup Which brings me to a new traffic initiative called universal daylighting. In a nutshell, some in our city want to ban parking within 20 feet at the corners of every intersection in New York. And get this its not the Department Transportation. Its the progressives in the City Council, and they are pushing a bill to prove it. Most of Staten Islands elected officials think its a dopey idea because it will eliminate 300,000 parking spaces citywide, cost a fortune to put in place, and make it even more dangerous for pedestrians because that gray SUV driver will see an open space to turn and take it as opportunity to speed up around the corner. I dont buy it. But I dont buy universal daylighting either. The keyword being universal. Daylighting at tight corners and busy intersections is a good idea. It works, no matter what critics say. Our neighbors across the river in Hoboken, where parking is banned at corners, havent seen a traffic fatality in eight-and-a-half years. Have you tried to get onto a busy Victory Boulevard either in a car or on foot -- with a massive Caddy Escalade parked at the tip of the intersection? Have you tried to turn into a skinny Laconia Avenue by Staten Island University Hospital with the rear end of a parked car sticking into the intersection, and a car coming in the opposite direction? Staten Island Council members are split on the plan. North Shores Kamilla Hanks is against it. So is David Carr. New South Shore Councilman Frank Morano supports it, while BP Vito Fossella is not fan. But Vito does say daylighting corners on an individual basis can work. Fact is, it already exists on Staten Island.Take a look at Old Town Road and Hylan Boulevard in Grasmere. Theres a bus stop at the corner on Hylan, which prevents parking, and parking is banned for about 20 feet at the corner of Old Town. Will we lose parking spots, even under a limited plan? Of course. Really, though . . . is asking people to look for a parking spot for another few minutes, or walking an extra block, too much to ask? If saves a life? Brian Oh by the way: Im sorry, traffic-camera-hating neighbors. Red-light cameras are necessary on Staten Island. Speed cameras? Theyre another story. Cars regularly travel at 50, 60 or 70 mph in our town. And they need to be controlled. But its not realistic to set limits at 20, 25 or 30 mph on many of our roadways. Supporters point out that speed cameras forgive 10 mph over the limit. So 25 is really 35 and 30 is really 40. Set the limit at 35. Set it at 40. Then enforce it. Give drivers a mile or two over the limit to account for any disparity with a cars speedometer. But the way speeding laws are enforced now is disingenuous at best, and dangerous at worst. Some drivers know of the 10-mph leeway. Some dont. Ever been behind someone going 25 on a one lane road with no other cars around? A tourist that was killed in a hit-and-run was in town for her anniversary, according to a report from the Daily News. Advance/SILive.com | Bill Lyons The German tourist recently killed in a hit-and-run incident in Midtown Manhattan was in New York City to celebrate her wedding anniversary, according to a new report from the Daily News. Alexandra Sabine Lewalter Maric, 50, was in town for cruise when she and her husband, 55, were struck by a minivan near West 40th Street and Fifth Avenue, the Daily News reports. The incident occurred on Wednesday, Sept. 24 two days after the couples anniversary, according to the news outlet. Maric was killed attempting to cross the street near Bryant Park, when a minivan that was in the middle of the intersection reversed and pinned her and her husband against a truck, the Daily News reports. The 50-year-old German tourist was pronounced dead at the scene. Her husband was taken to Bellevue Hospital with a skull fracture, the report says. The minivan driver then fled the scene but was later caught near Eighth Avenue, according to the Daily News. The 40-year-old driver of the minivan, Mohammed Abouzaid, had an out-of-state license plate on the front of his vehicle and a novelty souvenir plate on its rear, according to the report. This week, Staten Islander Leila Hegazy, a musician and teacher, is aboard the Global Sumud Flotilla, a civilian-led, 1000 person strong, 50 vessels from 40 countries, humanitarian mission carrying food and medicine to Gaza. Her decision wasnt taken lightly. She did it because people are starving, hospitals are collapsing. And governments, including our own, have failed to act. A Mission Under Attack at Sea On September 25, 2025, this mission came under direct assault as flotilla ships off the coast of Tunis were swarmed by 15 suspected Israeli drones. At least 13 explosions shook the vessels, communications were cut, and volunteers braced for chemical deployment. On the ship Alma, participants rushed from their bunks into the eerie orange night sky, strapping on life vests as shadowy objects fell overhead. This was not a warning. It was an escalation against unarmed civilians delivering aid. Meanwhile, Israels National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has threatened to brand these volunteers as terrorists and deny them basic rights if detained. Staten Island, This is Personal This is urgent for Staten Island. Just six weeks ago, Chris Smalls, a Staten Islander and labor leader, was beaten and detained during a previous flotilla attempt. He was among the last to be released, while the United States was the only country that failed to intervene. That silence set the stage for what is happening now. And now it is Leila in danger. And once again, the silence from our leaders could be deadly. A Call to our Leaders We call on Staten Islands elected officials: Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis, State Senator Jessica Scarcella-Spanton, Assemblymembers Sam Pirozzolo and Charles Fall, Borough President Vito Fossella, and Councilmembers Kamillah Hanks and David Carr. Speak out immediately and demand: Safe passage and safe return for Leila and all flotilla participants, International protection for Americans on humanitarian missions, Immediate U.S. intervention if civilians are detained, harmed, or criminalized, Rejection of false terrorist labels against people whose only mission is aid. This is a Genocide. And the Majority knows it. The blockade and destruction in Gaza meet the definition of genocide under international law. Genocide scholars, UN experts, and several major human-rights organization, including as Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, say whats happening in Gaza meets the legal definition of genocide. International courts found a plausible risk of genocide and ordered Israel to prevent it. Heres the landscape, clearly: Mass starvation, denial of medicine, targeted killings, and the destruction of civilian infrastructure are not security measures. They are deliberate acts of collective punishment. Public opinion reflects this. Poll after poll shows that a majority of Americans, especially younger generations, oppose U.S. complicity in Israels ongoing assault. Staten Island is no exception. Yet, Staten Island and New York media outlets fail to cover the Global Sumud Flotilla fairly and thoroughly, ensuring it receives the necessary attention and support for the protection of its participants and holds Israel accountable for International violations. We commend the Staten Island Advance for sharing coverage, but Greta Thurnberg is not the main headline of this tragic story, nor are Palestinians caught in the crossfire. History Will Judge History will ask: Did Staten Island speak when one of our own risked everything to stop a crime against humanity? Or did we look away? Staten Islanders must raise our voices. Because when governments turn away, it falls to us, the people, to keep humanity alive. Roxanne Mustafa, Staten Island Resident, Mother, Technologist, Designer, Activist, Palestinian-American, Human Ultra-liberal Joy Behar gave rare praise to President Donald Trump on The View on Thursday. Behar, who has spoken out against the president, said she agreed with Trumps targeting of former FBI Director James Comey, per the Daily Mail. Comey was charged on Thursday with lying to Congress in connection with the so-called Russiagate investigation of Trump, a probe that Trump and his supporters have long called a witch hunt. I agree with Trump on this one, Behar said. But Behar wasnt talking about Russiagate. Behar slammed the former FBI director for going after Hillary Clinton during the closing weeks of the 2016 presidential election. You know, I dont like Comey, Behar told her fellow panelists on The View. She said, I agree with Trump on this one. I dont like what he did to Hillary. Behar was referring to Comeys release in October of 2016 of a letter about Clintons use of a private email server. The letter was seen by Democrats as a crucial factor in that years presidential election between Trump and Clinton. Trump went on to win the White House that year. At the last minute to bring out this baloney, email baloney thing? Behar added. When panelist Sara Haines asked Behar if that meant Comey should be prosecuted, Behar responded, No, no. Im just saying. But I rarely have something I agree with Trump on. So, this is one thing. In a video he posted after his indictment, Comey said: My heart is broken for the Department of Justice but I have great confidence in the federal judicial system, and Im innocent. So lets have a trial. Federal opposition finance spokesman Senator James Paterson has sharply criticised the governments budget management, telling the ABCs Afternoon Briefing program that Labor drove the budget into deficit despite a huge revenue windfall. Loading Patersons comments come after the government earlier today confirmed an end to its back-to-back surpluses, with the final budget outcome showing a deficit of $10 billion for the last financial year. Paterson said the government could have delivered a surplus this year (potentially a $12 billion surplus) had it not proceeded with net spending that prevented it from achieving one. He rejected the treasurers claim of brilliance and hard work, arguing the improvement was solely due to a surge in post-COVID revenue from higher commodity prices and people paying more tax. Paterson described the high income-tax revenue as coming off the backs of hard work of Australians, who are not better off because inflation has risen faster than their wages, pushing them into higher tax brackets. He warned that because the surge in post-COVID revenue is going away, the country now faces a decade of Labor deficits to come, and $1.2 trillion of debt. On other matters, Paterson conceded that taxpayer help would be necessary to get energy-intensive aluminium smelters through the next year or two. He also strongly criticised the prime ministers decision to address the UK Labour Party conference, calling it inappropriate and saying the party, not taxpayers, should cover the cost of the side trip. He accused the prime minister of a political intervention into UK politics, trying to bail out a mate. I know that the Australian Turf Club is supposed to be strapped for cash, but I came across a Spreading of ashes booking request on their website, reports George Zivkovic of Northmead. Interested parties can contact the club and a member of staff will get back to you shortly. Not so silly an idea, or a possible revenue-raising option, as others charge up to $400 for one hour to scatter ashes at Sydney Heads. James McKinnon of Nabiac presents the definitive explanation for sawdust on the butcher shop floor (C8): Delivery drivers used to carry the new carcasses into the shops and the sawdust was there to stop the dripping blood from pooling in a slippery puddle on the floor. As if that were not ghastly enough, the carcasses were often hung on display in the corner for all to see. But it gets worse. Who remembers the pigs severed head on display in the window, tastefully decorated with plastic ferns? I am still haunted by their blond eyelashes. Telecommunications in the country (C8) wasnt always a party line, reckons Peter Riley of Penrith, who recalls a tale from a former PMG technician who was called to a farmhouse because whenever someone called, the phone didnt ring, but the dog went berserk. The phone line was rough and ready fence wire with an earth return. Turns out the dogs chain was connected to the line which shorted out the bell. Every time someone called, rover was zapped by 70 volts. Sounds conducive to us. Jim Dewar of Davistown brings us the poetry of the switchboard (if you can believe that). In a village outside Lithgow, theres a shed without a door, Theres wiring hanging loose and theres a handset on the floor, Theres broken, rotting shelving - was this the village store? Perhaps, cos on the handsets scribbled Cullen Bullen 4. While Rob Watson of Myocum suspects that Herman Beyersdorf (C8) has never read Alices Adventures in Wonderland, Elizabeth Turton of Queanbeyan suggests Herman is splitting hares, when he talks about falling down rabbit holes. Save Log in , register or subscribe to save articles for later. Save articles for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them any time. Got it Normal text size Larger text size Very large text size One didnt have to be directly impacted by robo-debt to feel its impacts (Robo-debt will haunt Libs, unless ... , September 27). Imagine a stubborn prime minister hell-bent on a self-idealised agenda, someone whopretended to have no accountability burying scrupulous public servants who were opposing it. We should never just ask, Remember robo-debt? On par with Malcolm Knoxs message, we ought to be entitled to also say, Yeah, remember how Morrison, Tudge, Porter and Robert got kicked out of their broad church. That would be leadership. And some peace for the masses. Ted Bush, North Epping Credit: Alan Moir Malcolm Knox has examined the elephant in the room, the issue that haunts the current Liberal Party like no other. Robo-debt is, and will remain, the low act that destroyed the heart of the Liberals. To turn against Australias most vulnerable in this way is inexcusable. When Scott Morrison swore an oath as social services minister, accepting ministerial responsibility, he understood the onerous task ahead. Robo-debt became the vehicle for his rise in the Coalition cabinet, his opportunity to gain kudos as the new welfare cop on the beat. Everything he did after that was to gain the top job, consequences be damned. His lack of integrity and Pontius Pilate act to deny knowledge of the illegality of the scheme flew in the face of evidence before the Royal Commission. It is unlikely the Liberal Party will expel Morrison or Tudge because it is a party without heart or unity. Justice in this saga is illusive. Geoff Nilon, Mascot Nail-gunned it again, Malcolm Knox. If that Christian happy-clapper ScoMo had thought to run the idea past Jen and the girls and, say, the Salvos, then robo-debt, that act of sheer bastardry, might never have condemned so many innocents to persecution. Kent Mayo, Uralla Liberal governments have a particularly awful track record when it comes to honesty and integrity. Our cause of involvement in Vietnam, the fate of the original Medibank, the Tampa and children overboard incidents, the non-existent Iraqi weapons of mass destruction, the wheat board kickbacks saga, the never-ever GST, the dog-whistling and divisiveness over race and immigration, the hollow no cuts to anything election promises, the abandonment of the French submarine deal and the gaslighting over the seriousness of climate change are but a few. Add to that list the disgraceful and indefensibly callous robo-debt scheme, with the subsequent half-hearted remorse and non-existent consequences for the perpetrators, and a gesture of just expelling a handful of has-beens from the party doesnt go anywhere near removing the continual taint. Contrition should be made of sterner stuff. Adrian Connelly, Springwood Two outstanding articles in one day: Malcolm Knox on whats wrong with the Liberal Party, and Peter Hartcher (Aping Trump will slay Coalition, September 27) on whats wrong with Trump (how long the list is!). Im waiting to see if the Libs have the courage to take Malcolms advice and expel Morrison and Tudge. Only then can we feel that Australia has a soul. Dick Barker, Epping After a royal commission, numerous other inquiries and legal cases, the government has offered a record $1.8 billion settlement (Malcolm Knox). That is 1.8 billion reasons to vote against the Coalition until they accept responsibility and face consequences. Greg Bugden, Armidale Advertisement Unfortunately, robo-debt is not the first time a federal Liberal government has been responsible for pursuing a cohort of people falsely accused of being paid welfare payments they were not entitled to. In the early hours of April 1, 1978, the Commonwealth police raided the homes of 181 people, arresting and charging them with attempts to defraud the social security department with bogus invalid pension claims. The authorities asserted there would be at least a further 1000 arrested on similar charges, and within days hundreds of people in receipt of an invalid pension had it cancelled and were left with no payments for years. Every one of those charged and who had their pensions cancelled shared a common similarity they were all migrants of Greek background living in Sydney, which was made public to the media. This resulted in calls from radio shock-jocks for a whole ethnic group to be deported and slandered with accusations they were crooks, bludgers and a burden to the country. Unlike the victims of robo-debt, there was no media investigation into the validity of the claims of a massive fraud, no royal commission to scrutinise why the then-government allowed it to continue, and no compensation settlement for all those Greek victims who, after several years at court, were found to be innocent of conspiracy to defraud the Commonwealth; and, sadly, there were attempts at suicide, one successful. Only the term Greek conspiracy remains to be remembered. Con Vaitsas, Ashbury PM our watchdog Credit: Megan Herbert Peter Hartcher manages to skewer both the opposition and Trump on policies and values (Aping Trump will slay Coalition, September 27). We can thank our lucky stars that we have a PM who will defend our interests and values at all costs. Andrew Macintosh, Cromer Witch trials relived The accusation that censorship was instigated and primarily practised by the left has been trotted out again (After celebrating censorship, left talks up free speech, September 27). There can be censorship across the inevitably imprecise categories of left and right, but if we look at the traditional establishment as against progressives, censorship was certainly practised by the traditionals, with laws against blasphemy, sedition, inappropriate language and sexuality. Recently we have seen serious literature banned or attempts to remove books from libraries and schools in both Australia and the US by right-wing groups and governments, as well as attacks on anti-government protesters. Here, Stan Grant and Yassmin Abdel-Magied were not hounded out by the left. Trumps US is now taking this to levels similar to the Salem witch trials. Al Svirskis, Mount Druitt Pokie pull ignored Advertisement For those who cannot, or will not, recognise the problem that NSW has with its 88,000 pokies: substitute every face in the crowd at the NRL grand final with a pokie, and have another 5000 pokies queued up outside. More strength to ginger groups (ALP big guns turn on their own over pokie reforms, September 27). Col Shephard, Yamba Enclaves of moneyed While your correspondent (Letters, September 27) seems to think only the wealthy should be entitled to live in the city, surely he does not expect them to do the work that keeps it running? It is the cleaners, the garbos, the nurses and medical staff, and the teachers and transport workers, who keep the city running and often have to work antisocial hours. We cannot afford to make homes within reasonable commuting time of their workplaces unaffordable for them. Even people from Terrigal may need to use city hospitals, which are kept running by the underpaid. Jennifer Killen, St Peters Remember sacrifice Outgoing commissioner Karen Webb at Goulburn Police Academy Credit: Dominic Lorrimer National Police Remembrance Day (September 29) will be particularly difficult for the constabulary as they mourn the recent killing of Detective Leading Senior Constable Neal Thompson and Senior Constable Vadim de Waart-Hottart in Victoria. Today provides a special opportunity to thank police, who run the risk of insult, injury or worse, and have the unenviable duty of attending all manner of tragic and stressful incidents. David DLima, Sturt (SA) Teaching is all about the passion Advertisement Congratulations to Sienna Clarke (A career in medicine lost out to lure of a classroom, September 27) for choosing to go into teaching. Teaching is never about the money, nor the holidays, but about having a passion for helping others to learn. The best job anyone can have is when someone pays you to fulfil your passion in Siennas case, its maths. She will get to pass on her knowledge and skills, while being paid to do it. And her whiteboard work is extremely neat. Better than I could ever do. Mia David, Wollongong University of Sydney teaching student Sienna Clarke. Admire the white board Credit: Steven Siewert I wish Sienna all the success in the world in her chosen career. She is right when she says medicine can be attractive because of some perceived prestige, but its still a huge mountain to climb. After leaving school you will need (for most medical schools in Australia) a three- or four-year undergraduate degree, followed by four years of medicine and a compulsory intern year. Then you can start your training in either general practice or some other field, which will take a minimum of three years but more likely five or six. Only then can you start to practise in your chosen field. Most of your pals who left school with you are now classified as mid-career. Its a hard road. Ross MacPherson, Seaforth China fired up Your correspondent (Letters, September 27) refers to the situation should Australia follow the path advocated by Andrew Hastie and Matt Canavan for establishing coal-fired generators on the one hand, while China is switching to renewables on the other. While China is promising to reduce its reliance on fossil fuels (although not to the extent planned by Australia), it is also continuing to build new coal-fired power stations, essentially to ensure it has sufficient baseload power to keep its economy functioning. A lesson in pragmatism which we would do well to consider if we want to maintain a stable electricity grid that meets the future needs of our burgeoning population. Doug Walker, Baulkham Hills Nuclear fusion is the power source of the future and always will be. Its been 20 years from practicality for at least 40 years, to my memory. Let China waste its efforts on it, maybe that means it builds fewer subs and missiles. Andrew Taubman, Queens Park Your correspondent seems excited by Chinas 58 operating nuclear power plants and a further 30 under construction. What he did not mention is that nuclear generates only 4.5 per cent of Chinas electricity and that percentage is declining due to the growth in renewables. Also, Chinas oldest nuclear power plants will reach end-of-life in the coming decade and the ones under construction will not be enough to replace them. Brendan Jones, Annandale Advertisement Eight examples Thank you, Virginia Tapscott, for your balanced views on working and child-rearing (People dont want to have this conversation , September 27). In a world where the latest -ism and fad must, according the various promoters, be slavishly followed, most of us carry on a life which acknowledges others but does not necessarily conform to the ideas of increasingly bellicose groups. My (dare I say, handsome) wife has managed to raise eight children, during which time she endeavoured to be at home for their formative and our chaotic years, while our house slowly attained a second storey. This didnt stop her from attaining two degrees, as well as another later one, along with a diploma, and having paid work, sometimes part-time. Our beloved children, now grown up, appreciate their upbringing of encouraging curiosity, music and the arts in general, engineering technology and an appreciation of all sorts of non-aggressive people, no matter their social, religious, financial or gender situation. Our family views hardliners, left, right or looney, who try to regiment society into their narrow outlook, as irrelevant to a lovely, real life. Heres to you, Virginia. Donald Hawes, Peel Cash campaign I hear you, fellow correspondents (Letters, September 27). Should contributors like us join forces in a campaign to go back to using cash, and starve out card providers? Theres no need for a campaign, just individual action to boycott their services. Seppo Ranki, Glenhaven Family lessons What a beautiful soul Millie Muroi has (We can learn from Japans ageing society and my 99-year-old grandpa, September 27). The empathy she displayed when she visited and spoke to and about her grandfather was inspirational. I was moved to tears. In an ageing world where longevity is due to better hygiene, better food and medical intervention, the knowledge and experiences of older people should be harnessed, valued and respected. All families take heed read this article. Do not discard your parents and grandparents. All levels of governments should also read this article and learn from it. Nursing homes should not be purgatories where people are simply awaiting their end. Rita Zammit, Concord Love, Joy, Connection is shown in the photo of Millie Muroi and her 99-year-old grandpa. She hopes Australians will value older people and assist them to keep active in their chosen ways. My grandparents died young, in their twenties, from pneumonia and heart problems. I have always felt a loss and envied others who had this special relationship. Bea Hodgson, Gerringong Advertisement A woman has been taken into custody following a unit fire on Sunday morning that put two people in hospital. Emergency services were called about 7.45am to a Lamington Avenue apartment block in Lutwyche, with fire crews initially suspecting two or more units were ablaze. Police declared a crime scene shortly after 8.30am and took the woman, in her 30s, into custody before midday. Police declared a crime scene at a Lutwyche apartment complex following the fire on Sunday morning. Two people were taken to St Andrews Hospital in stable conditions for smoke inhalation, and paramedics assessed a third at the scene. An Armadale man faces weapons and drug charges after a chase through Perths southern suburbs came to a dramatic end in a supermarket in Kardinya. The 30-year-old was allegedly spotted driving a black Audi 8K erratically on Leach Highway in Melvill just after midday on Thursday, before driving off as police attempted to pull him over in a car park on Norma Road. A 30-year-old man has been charged with firearms offences after a chase through Perths south. Credit: WA Police It will be further alleged the accused drove recklesslymounting a footpath, and driving on the wrong side of the road, a WA Police spokeswoman said. The evade incident was terminated by police due to community safety concerns. This is an American city. We do not need any intervention, Mayor Keith Wilson said at the news conference. This is not a military target. Kotek said Trump did not give a timetable for troops arriving. She said she told him the Oregon National Guard was not needed and she did not plan to call it up. Trump, however, previously deployed guard soldiers and active duty Marines in Los Angeles even though California Governor Gavin Newsom opposed it. The federal government is appealing a judges ruling that Trumps use of the guard was illegal. Kotek urged the public to stay calm, saying any kind of property damage or violence would not be tolerated. Lets not take the bait, she said. Lets not respond to what the president is trying to do. Residents ask: Wheres the emergency? Earlier on Saturday, there was no sign of any federal presence downtown, where people jogged along the Willamette River, relaxed by a riverside fountain or rode bikes on a sunny autumn day. Wheres the emergency? asked resident Allen Schmertzler, 72, who said he was disgusted by the presidents decision. Another, John McNeur, 74, called Trumps statement ridiculous. He pointed out that he was taking a leisurely stroll along the river on a peaceful, sunny day. This place is not a city thats out of control, he said. Its just a beautiful place. Trump has also named Chicago, Memphis Trump previously threatened to send the National Guard into Chicago, but has yet to follow through. A deployment in Memphis, Tennessee, is expected soon and will include only about 150 troops, far less than were sent to the District of Columbia for Trumps crackdown on crime or to Los Angeles in response to immigration protests that turned violent with the troops arrival. In Memphis, about 80 to 100 people marched to a plaza in front of City Hall to protest the expected arrival next week of the guard and more than a dozen federal law enforcement agencies, ranging from immigration to drug enforcement. Protesters held signs with messages such as Resources Not Task Forces and Memphis dont need no occupation, Memphis dont need no government control a play on the Pink Floyd song Another Brick in the Wall. Speakers said beforehand that instead of federal troops and agents, Memphis needed more funding for education, crime prevention, youth services and hospitals. The Oregon officials made similar comments. Few details from the Pentagon Loading Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell said the Department of Defence would provide information and updates when available. We stand ready to mobilise US military personnel in support of DHS operations in Portland at the presidents direction, Parnell said. A spokesperson for the Oregon National Guard, Lieutenant Colonel Stephen Bomar, said via email that no official requests had been received at this time for Guard support. Any requests would need to be co-ordinated through the governors office, he said. Oregons congressional delegation, with the exception of Republican congressman Cliff Bentz, demanded that the Trump administration keep federal agents and troops out of Portland. This unilateral action represents an abuse of executive authority, seeks to incite violence, and undermines the constitutional balance of power between the federal government and states, the Democratic lawmakers wrote in a letter to Trump, Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth and Noem. Protests in Portland Portland, population 636,000, was the site of long-running and sometimes violent racial justice protests following George Floyds killing by Minneapolis police in 2020. The Trump administration sent hundreds of agents, including from the US Border Patrol, for the stated purpose of protecting the federal courthouse and other federal property from vandalism. Recent demonstrations have been far more muted and focused on the area around the ICE building, located outside downtown, that was the heart of the 2020 protests. Its main entrance and ground-floor windows have been boarded up and tagged with graffiti. Some federal agents have been injured and several protesters have been charged with assault. Some demonstrators also say they have been injured. When protesters erected a prop guillotine earlier this month, the Department of Homeland Security called it unhinged behaviour. Police Chief Bob Day said at the news conference that his agency did not participate in immigration enforcement. He said afterwards that Federal Protective Services was responsible for the ICE building and police would intervene only against vandalism or criminal activity in the surrounding area. Portland Mayor Keith Wilson speaks at a news conference on Saturday (US time). Credit: AP The city said this month that it would issue a land-use violation notice to its ICE building because it was used to detain people overnight or for more than 12 hours violations of its conditional land use approval. Portland is one of a number of so-called sanctuary cities. There is no strict definition for sanctuary cities, but the term generally describes places that limit co-operation with ICE. Portland officials stress the citys recovery City groups and officials have sought to highlight the recovery of the downtown area since 2020. The past summer was reportedly the busiest for pedestrian traffic since before the pandemic, and overall violent crime from January through June decreased by 17 per cent compared with the same period in 2024, a recent report from the Major Cities Chiefs Association found. The downtown has seen a decrease in homeless encampments. Since the September 10 assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, Trump has escalated efforts to confront what he calls the radical left, which he blames for political violence. Were going to get out there and were going to do a pretty big number on those people in Portland, Trump said Thursday in the Oval Office. He called such people professional agitators and anarchists. PHILIPSBURG:--- Police have arrested two suspects in connection with an armed robbery and carjacking that occurred on Friday afternoon near the heart of Philipsburg's shopping district. The incident occurred just after 4:00 p.m. on Friday, September 26, 2025, on Longwall Road, near the entrance to Front Street. According to police reports, several men driving a white Hyundai i10 carried out an armed robbery and carjacking, forcefully stealing a white Toyota Yaris from its driver. Gunshots were fired during the incident. Patrol officers who were nearby immediately spotted both vehicles and began pursuing the suspects along A. Th. Illidge Road. During the high-speed chase, the white Hyundai i10 crashed into three other vehicles. Police arrested the driver of the Hyundai and took him to the station for questioning. The damaged Hyundai has been seized as evidence. Traffic department personnel responded to the scene to handle the multiple vehicle accidents and assess damages. The suspects in the stolen Toyota Yaris initially escaped during the chase. However, through persistent police work and area searches, officers later found the stolen vehicle abandoned in the Cul-de-Sac area. The recovered Toyota has also been brought to the police station for investigation. On Saturday, September 27, 2025, a second suspect voluntarily turned himself in at the Philipsburg Police Station and was taken into custody. Detectives from the Police Force of Sint Maarten's (KPSM) Special Robbery Unit are actively investigating the case and working to identify any additional suspects involved. The Police Force of Sint Maarten is taking serious action against these types of violent crimes that threaten the safety of our community. Anyone who commits armed robbery, carjacking, or similar offenses will face the full force of the law. If you have any information about this incident or other robberies in the area, please contact: Police Station: 1721-5422222 or the anonymous Tip Line: 9300 KPSM commends the officers involved for their quick thinking and professional response that led to these arrests. Updates will be provided as the investigation continues. KPSM Press Release. Trump authorizes 'full force' troop deployment in Portland Washington, Sept 27 (AFP) Sep 27, 2025 President Donald Trump on Saturday authorized the deployment of troops in the northwestern US city of Portland, extending his contentious domestic use of the military to support a mass immigration crackdown. A deployment in Portland -- Oregon's largest city -- would follow similar moves by the Republican president to mobilize troops against the wishes of local Democratic leadership in Los Angeles and Washington DC. It also comes as Trump launches an assault against left-wing activists in the wake of several deadly attacks, which the president and his allies claim are evidence of a "domestic terrorist" network. "At the request of Secretary of Homeland Security, Kristi Noem, I am directing Secretary of War, Pete Hegseth, to provide all necessary Troops to protect War ravaged Portland, and any of our ICE Facilities under siege from attack by Antifa, and other domestic terrorists," Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform. ICE, or Immigration and Customs Enforcement, is the main agency carrying out Trump's contentious mass deportation drive. It was not clear if Trump was authorizing the use of troops at ICE facilities nationwide or just in Portland, where protests have been ongoing for months. The president added he was "also authorizing Full Force, if necessary," without elaborating. Protesters in Portland and other cities have intermittently blocked entrances to ICE facilities in recent weeks, prompting some clashes as agents try to clear the area. Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell said the department stood "ready to mobilize US military personnel" to support ICE, without further details. Oregon Governor Tina Kotek said Saturday she spoke with Trump, who "did not give me any details or specify any time" about the deployment of the troops. "There is no insurrection, there is no threat to national security, and there is no need for military troops in our own major city," she told reporters. Portland Mayor Keith Wilson called the deployment "unwanted, unneeded and un-American." "The number of necessary troops is zero in Portland and any other American city," he added. - 'Terrorist' threat - Officials in Portland are wary of a repeat of summer 2020, during Trump's first term, when the city saw a surge of violent clashes amid racial justice protests following the police killing of unarmed Black man George Floyd. Oregon Senator Ron Wyden called Trump's move an "authoritarian takeover of Portland hoping to provoke conflict." "I urge Oregonians to reject Trump's attempt to incite violence," the Democrat posted on X. Trump first deployed troops in Los Angeles in June, overriding the state's Democratic governor and prompting an ongoing legal dispute over the limits of presidential authority. That was followed by a surge of troops and federal agents to the US capital, and threats to go into other major cities, including Chicago. The Portland announcement comes days after a deadly shooting at an ICE facility in Texas, in which one detainee was killed and two severely injured. Federal officials say the gunman, who died from a self-inflicted gunshot, had sought to target ICE agents from a nearby rooftop. Weeks earlier, conservative activist Charlie Kirk was shot dead at a university campus. Following Kirk's assassination, Trump announced that he was labeling the diffuse left-wing "Antifa" movement as a "domestic terrorist group." The designation has led to worries among Trump's critics that it could be used to broadly suppress dissent in the name of national security. On Thursday, Trump signed an order directing the FBI to investigate and disrupt "organized political violence," while telling reporters that billionaire George Soros -- a frequent target of right-wing conspiracy theories -- would be an example of someone who should be probed. Attorney General Pam Bondi has meanwhile ordered federal Justice Department agents to ICE facilities around the country. "If you so much as touch one of our federal officers, you will go to prison," she said Saturday on X. 'Snapback': What sanctions will be reimposed on Iran? United Nations, United States, Sept 28 (AFP) Sep 28, 2025 A raft of UN sanctions on Iran over its nuclear program, lifted under a landmark 2015 deal, went back into force late Saturday. The sanctions were reimposed because the "E3" European group -- Britain, France and Germany -- triggered a mechanism in the deal alleging Tehran was not meeting its obligations. Here are some key facts about the so-called "snapback" process: - What do the sanctions target? - The sanctions target companies, organizations and individuals that contribute directly or indirectly to Iran's nuclear program or the development of its ballistic missiles. Providing necessary equipment, expertise, or funding are all grounds for sanctions. - Swath of the economy affected - The sanctions include an embargo on conventional weapons with the prohibition of any sale or transfer of arms to Iran. Imports, exports or transfers of parts and technologies related to the nuclear and ballistic program will be prohibited. The assets of entities and individuals abroad belonging to Iranian persons or groups linked to the nuclear program will be frozen. Individuals designated as participating in prohibited nuclear activities may be banned from traveling to UN member states. UN member states will be required to restrict access to banking and financial facilities that could help Iran's nuclear or ballistic programs. Anyone violating the sanctions regime could see their assets frozen worldwide. - The EU had its own sanctions - Separate measures by the European Union could now be reimposed alongside the core, global sanctions. Their goal was to hit the Iranian economy, not only to hamper nuclear activity but also to inflict fiscal pain to force Tehran to comply. Western nations fear Iran will acquire nuclear weapons. Tehran vehemently denies seeking such weapons while defending its right to develop a nuclear program for civilian purposes. The United States already imposes its own sanctions, including ones to prohibit other countries from buying Iranian oil, after President Donald Trump withdrew from the nuclear deal in his first term. - How does 'snapback' take effect? - The "snapback" process reactivates UN resolutions, but their practical implementation requires UN member states to update their laws to comply. It will be up to the EU and Britain to pass legislation so that the sanctions can be enforced, but neither has given details on that process. - How are sanctions enforced? - The UN Security Council resolutions and the associated sanctions are binding -- but are regularly violated. The big question is whether countries like China and Russia, which consider the triggering of the "snapback" illegal, might decide not to comply. Some countries, including China, continued to trade with Iran despite the presence of US sanctions. The European powers expect Russia will not comply with the sanctions but are unclear about how China, which imports a significant amount of oil from Iran, might react. "There is a cost to circumventing sanctions, a political cost, but also a financial and economic cost because financial transactions become more expensive," said Clement Therme, an associate researcher at the International Institute for Iranian Studies linked to Sorbonne University. Shipping companies are one example of businesses that will feel the pinch. "In the case of UN sanctions, we probably won't see a full blockade, but rising costs instead," Therme added. Denmark bans all civilian drone flights this week due to EU summit: ministry Copenhagen, Sept 28 (AFP) Sep 28, 2025 Denmark will ban all civilian drone flights across the country this week to ensure security as Copenhagen hosts an EU summit gathering heads of government, the transport ministry said Sunday. Mysterious drone sightings across Denmark since September 22 have prompted the closure of several airports, with Denmark hinting at possible Russian involvement, charges Moscow has rejected. Drones were observed over Danish military sites overnight for the second straight day, Denmark's army said Sunday. Copenhagen is to host an EU summit on Wednesday and Thursday. "Denmark will host EU leaders in the coming week, where we will have extra focus on security. Therefore, from Monday to Friday, we will close the Danish airspace to all civilian drone flights," Transport Minister Thomas Danielsen said in a statement. "In this way, we remove the risk that enemy drones can be confused with legal drones and vice versa," he added. A violation of the ban can result in a fine or imprisonment for up to two years, the ministry said. Justice Minister Peter Hummelgaard said in the same statement the purpose of the ban was to simplify the work of police and other authorities. "The police are on heightened alert, and our authorities must use their forces where necessary to take care of Danes and our guests." He said the ban would mean police would not have to "spend their efforts on civilian drones" that did not pose a problem to security and police. Danish police said Saturday they had received more than 500 reports of drone flights from the public, most of which were dismissed as being not of interest. - NATO 'enhances vigilance' - The ban does not apply to military drone flights and state-operated drones, including police and emergency drone operations, as well as health-related drone operations, the transport ministry said. Neighbouring Norway was also investigating "possible sightings of drones" early Saturday near its biggest military base, Orland, where its F-35 fighter jets are parked. And Germany said Saturday it wants to authorise its military to shoot down drones after a "swarm" was spotted over the northern state of Schleswig-Holstein, which borders Denmark. NATO said it had "enhanced vigilance" in the Baltic following the intrusions. The reinforced measures "include multiple intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance platforms and at least one air-defence frigate" in the region to the west of Russia, alliance spokesman Martin O'Donnell told reporters. The string of drone sightings in the past week comes on the heels of drone incursions in Polish and Romanian territory and the violation of Estonian airspace by Russian fighter jets, which raised tensions in light of Russia's ongoing invasion of Ukraine. Danish investigators have so far failed to identify those responsible for the drone flights over Denmark, but Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen said this week that "there is one main country that poses a threat to Europe's security, and it is Russia." Moscow said Thursday it "firmly rejects" any suggestion that it was involved in the Danish incidents. Iran denounces 'unjustifiable' return of UN sanctions Tehran, Sept 28 (AFP) Sep 28, 2025 Iran on Sunday condemned as "unjustifiable" the reinstatement of United Nations sanctions over its nuclear programme, after the collapse of talks with Western powers and Israeli and US strikes on its nuclear sites. The measures, which bar dealings linked to the Islamic republic's nuclear and ballistic missile activities, took effect overnight after Western powers triggered the so-called "snapback" mechanism under the 2015 nuclear accord. "The reactivation of annulled resolutions is legally baseless and unjustifiable... all countries must refrain from recognising this illegal situation," the Iranian foreign ministry said in a statement. "The Islamic Republic of Iran will firmly defend its national rights and interests, and any action aimed at undermining the rights and interests of its people will face a firm and appropriate response," it added. The return of the sanctions ends months of tense diplomacy aimed at reviving nuclear talks derailed since June, when Israeli and US forces bombed Iranian nuclear facilities. Despite the reimposition, Western leaders stressed channels for dialogue remained open. Kaja Kallas, the European Union's top diplomat, on Sunday said the reimposition of sanctions "must not be the end of diplomacy". US Secretary of State Marco Rubio urged Iran to "accept direct talks, held in good faith". He also called on UN member states to "immediately" implement sanctions to "pressure Iran's leaders to do what is right for their nation, and best for the safety of the world". The British, French and German foreign ministers said in a joint statement they would continue to seek "a new diplomatic solution to ensure Iran never gets a nuclear weapon". However, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Sunday rejected any nuclear negotiations that would cause "new problems". "We have always declared our readiness for a logical, fair and just dialogue based on clear criteria, but we will never accept a negotiation that causes us new problems and issues," Pezeshkian said, according to ISNA news agency. "The country is ready to face any situation," he noted, adding that "our path is to stand firm, rely on the power of the people, and move with dignity towards a bright future." - 'No choice' - Iran had allowed UN inspectors to return to its nuclear sites, but Pezeshkian said in previous remarks that the United States had offered only a short reprieve in return for handing over its whole stockpile of enriched uranium, a proposal he described as unacceptable. An 11th-hour effort by Iran allies Russia and China to postpone the sanctions until April failed to win enough votes in the Security Council on Friday, leading to the measures taking effect at 3:30 am in Tehran (0000 GMT) on Sunday. Germany, which triggered the return of sanctions alongside Britain and France, had "no choice" as Iran was not complying with its obligations, Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul said. "For us, it is imperative: Iran must never acquire a nuclear weapon," he told the UN General Assembly. "But let me emphasise: we remain open to negotiations on a new agreement. Diplomacy can and should continue." Iran has long contended that it is not seeking nuclear weapons. Newspapers in the Islamic republic gave contrasting reactions to the reimposition of the sanctions. The ultraconservative newspaper Kayhan, which opposes dialogue with the United States, suggested the sanctions would have been imposed even if Iran had engaged in negotiations. The reformist daily Ham Mihan wrote: "The big question is whether Russia and China will maintain their position". Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on Saturday made clear Moscow would not enforce the sanctions. - Economic impact - The sanctions are a "snapback" of measures frozen in 2015 when Iran agreed to major restrictions on its nuclear programme under a deal negotiated by former president Barack Obama. The United States had already imposed massive sanctions when President Donald Trump withdrew from the deal in his first term. Iran and the United States had held several rounds of Omani-brokered talks earlier this year before they collapsed in June when first Israel and then the United States attacked Iranian nuclear facilities. On the ground, Iranians lamented the likely impact of the new sanctions on an already squeezed economy. "The current (economic) situation was already very difficult, but it's going to get worse," said an Iranian engineer who asked to be identified only by his first name Dariush. "The impact of the renewed sanctions is already evident: the exchange rate is increasing, and this is leading to higher prices," the 50-year-old said, complaining that the standard of living is "much lower" than it was two or three years ago. The economic strain was underscored on Sunday when the Iranian rial plunged to a record low against the US dollar on the black market, trading at around 1.12 million per dollar, according to the currency-tracking websites Bonbast and AlanChand. burs/dcp War criminal general arrives in Serbia after early release Belgrade, Sept 28 (AFP) Sep 28, 2025 Former Yugoslav army chief Nebojsa Pavkovic, convicted of war crimes during Kosovo's war of independence, arrived back in Belgrade Sunday after being released early on health grounds, Serbia's prime minister announced. Pavkovic, 79, was sentenced by the International Criminal Court in The Hague in 2009 to 22 years in prison, for crimes against Albanians during the 1998-1999 Kosovo war. The verdict was confirmed in 2014 and he had been serving his sentence in Finland. He surrendered to the court in 2005, which had been seeking him for his role as commander of the Yugoslav Third Army in Kosovo. Serbian Prime Minister Djuro Macut said his successful release had been due to lobbying by the government. Pavkovic "will continue his treatment in Serbia, with the support of his family and the health institutions of our country", Macut added. Serbia's state broadcaster, RTS, said Pavkovic had been taken to a military hospital on arriving back in Serbia. In May 2022, the court rejected a request for an earlier release, citing "the gravity of his crimes and the lack of rehabilitation". Pavkovic was a close associate of nationalist strongman Slobodan Milosevic, who died in 2006 during his own war-crimes trial. Milosevic and the Serbian authorities have long maintained they were legitimately fighting the Kosovo Liberation Army (KLA), which they branded a terrorist group. Kosovo declared independence from Serbia in 2008, a move Belgrade still refuses to recognise. Denmark bans civilian drone flights due to EU summit Copenhagen, Sept 28 (AFP) Sep 28, 2025 Denmark will ban all civilian drone flights across the country over the coming days to ensure security as Copenhagen hosts an EU summit gathering heads of government, the transport ministry said Sunday. Mysterious drone sightings across Denmark since September 22 have prompted the closure of several airports, with Denmark hinting at possible Russian involvement, though Moscow denies the charge. Drones were observed over Danish military sites Saturday night for the second straight day, Denmark's army said on Sunday. Copenhagen is to host an EU summit on Wednesday and Thursday. "Denmark will host EU leaders in the coming week, where we will have extra focus on security. Therefore, from Monday to Friday, we will close the Danish airspace to all civilian drone flights," Transport Minister Thomas Danielsen said in a statement. "In this way, we remove the risk that enemy drones can be confused with legal drones and vice versa," he added. A violation of the ban can result in a fine or imprisonment for up to two years, the ministry said. Justice Minister Peter Hummelgaard said in the same statement the purpose of the ban was to simplify the work of police and other authorities. "The police are on heightened alert, and our authorities must use their forces where necessary to take care of Danes and our guests." He said the ban would mean police would not have to "spend their efforts on civilian drones" that did not pose a problem to security and police. Danish police said Saturday they had received more than 500 reports of drone flights from the public, most of which were dismissed as being not of interest. In neighbouring Norway, airport operator Avinor said late Sunday that drone "activity" was observed at Bronnoysund Airport, one of four airports in northern Norway where air and land restrictions for drones had been extended to 10 kilometres (6.2 miles) from Saturday until Monday as "a precautionary measure". "This affected one incoming flight, which was instructed to delay its landing and has now diverted to an alternate airport," Avinor said in a statement sent to AFP. Avinor provided no details about the number of drones observed or where they may have come from. - NATO 'enhances vigilance' - Norway is already investigating "possible sightings of drones" on Saturday near its biggest military base, Orland, where its F-35 fighter jets are parked. And Germany said Saturday it wants to authorise its military to shoot down drones after a "swarm" was spotted over the northern state of Schleswig-Holstein, which borders Denmark. NATO said it had "enhanced vigilance" in the Baltic following the intrusions. The reinforced measures "include multiple intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance platforms and at least one air-defence frigate" in the region to the west of Russia, alliance spokesman Martin O'Donnell told reporters. The string of drone sightings in the past week comes on the heels of drone incursions in Polish and Romanian territory and the violation of Estonian airspace by Russian fighter jets, which raised tensions in light of Russia's ongoing invasion of Ukraine. Danish investigators have so far failed to identify those responsible for the drone flights over Denmark. But Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen said this week that "there is one main country that poses a threat to Europe's security, and it is Russia". Moscow said Thursday it "firmly rejects" any suggestion that it was involved in the Danish incidents. Defence ministers from around 10 EU countries agreed Friday to make a so-called "drone wall" a priority for the bloc. Oregon sues to stop Trump's deployment of US military to Portland Los Angeles, United States, Sept 28 (AFP) Sep 28, 2025 State authorities in Oregon on Sunday sued to halt the deployment of US troops to the northwestern city of Portland, a day after President Donald Trump ordered the move. The deployment would follow similar moves by the Republican president to mobilize troops against the wishes of local Democratic leadership in Los Angeles and Washington DC. Trump says the deployments are necessary to crack down on crime and protests against his contentious and wideranging mass deportation drive. The suit filed by Oregon and Portland authorities on Sunday accused Trump of overreach, saying the move "was motivated by his desire to normalize the use of military troops for ordinary domestic law enforcement activity," particularly in jurisdictions run by his political opponents. Since returning to power in January, Trump has delivered on campaign promises to go after undocumented migrants in a drive that lawyers and NGOs say has led to frequent violations of people's rights. In recent weeks, the Republican has also vowed to take on violence he alleges is being carried out by an alleged left-wing "domestic terrorist" network -- moves his critics say are designed to silence dissent. In its suit, Oregon authorities said there was no need for a National Guard deployment to Portland as -- contrary to Trump's claims -- the protests there against Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) have been small-scale and peaceful. The suit said the protests typically involve less than 30 people and have not required arrests since mid-June. "But (Trump's) heavyhanded deployment of troops threatens to escalate tensions and stokes new unrest," the suit said. Protesters in Portland and other cities have intermittently blocked entrances to ICE facilities in recent weeks, prompting some clashes as agents try to clear the area. Earlier, responding to Trump's Saturday announcement, Oregon Governor Tina Kotek said she had been given no details or timeframe regarding the troop deployment. "There is no insurrection, there is no threat to national security, and there is no need for military troops in our own major city," she told reporters. Portland Mayor Keith Wilson called the deployment "unwanted, unneeded and un-American." Officials in Portland are wary of a repeat of summer 2020, during Trump's first term, when the city saw a surge of violent clashes amid racial justice protests following the police killing of unarmed Black man George Floyd. Trump first deployed troops in Los Angeles in June, overriding the state's Democratic governor and prompting an ongoing legal dispute over the limits of presidential authority. That was followed by a surge of troops and federal agents to the US capital, and threats to go into other major cities, including Chicago. Shadow business secretary Andrew Griffith said: It is welcome to see that the Jaguar Land Rover supply chain an important capability in our country that creates and supports thousands of automotive jobs is finally being supported by the Government with loan guarantees in precisely the way we suggested. And I would run off, and I would wet my hair so there wasnt Blair hair any more, put a helmet on, get on the back of a motorbike, where someone would then ride me across London to the theatre, where I would get off and by the time I took the helmet off, my hair had gone all curly again. And because they had both been furloughed from work she was working for a tech sales company and he was a sports coach they had plenty of time to spend together over the weeks that followed. Allow Google Search To use the search feature, we need your consent to load Google Custom Search, which may use cookies or similar technologies. Please click 'Allow and Continue' below to enable search. See our privacy policy for more information. Allow and Continue China's intelligent river governance draws global attention Xinhua) 08:46, September 28, 2025 WUHAN, Sept. 27 (Xinhua) -- China's use of intelligent technology in river governance is attracting global interest as experts and officials gathered in central China's Wuhan for the 2025 Great Rivers Forum amid mounting climate challenges around the world.. On Friday afternoon, Lu Hui, professor at the Department of Earth System Science of Tsinghua University, presented new applications of digital technology in mountain flood control at a parallel forum on the sustainable development of great river civilizations in the era of digital intelligence. "China has 570,000 mountain flood risk points, and many mountainous areas lack effective monitoring methods, leading to delayed responses," Lu said. He highlighted an intelligent early-warning platform that integrates radar, satellites and AI algorithms to track rainstorms, simulate flood processes, and deliver timely alerts. The system, which was tested during the extreme rainfall event in Beijing in 2023, has greatly enhanced forecasting accuracy and supported emergency response efforts. Lu said the approach is also cost-effective and can be applied beyond China. "With drones, we were able to complete sub-meter modeling of more than 140 flood gullies across Beijing in just over a month," he noted. "China's experience in managing mountain floods is now ready to be shared with other countries." The presentation drew strong interest from Ratna Rajah, director of the Humid Tropics Centre Kuala Lumpur under UNESCO. Holding up his phone to record Lu's speech, Rajah later sought further discussion with the Tsinghua professor. "If we start from zero on water governance, we could already be 10 or 20 years behind, but through platforms like this, we can stand on the shoulders of experts," Rajah noted. Rajah said that Malaysia, with an average annual rainfall of 3,000 millimeters every year, faces growing challenges from climate change. "Previously, rainfall of around 120 millimeters would typically spread over three hours. But now, we're seeing the same amount fall within just one hour. This intensity is putting a strain on our drainage systems," he said. "We're exploring the underground storage, similar to the 'Sponge City' concept implemented here in Wuhan. This is an area we're very interested in, and I'm also working with my colleague here to study the concept further," Rajah added. Digital transformation was also a key point of discussion. Philippe Gourbesville, president of the International Association for Hydro-Environment Engineering and Research, said he was impressed by China's digital twin systems for the Yangtze and Yellow rivers. "The digital twin will provide the right information to the decision makers to be sure that the right decision will be taken ... The expectation of this digital transformation is to provide better services at the end and to have more reliable services," Gourbesville said. The forum also highlighted the cultural dimensions of river governance. Spanning 30 world natural and cultural heritage sites, the Yangtze River National Cultural Park's construction is in full swing. During the forum, experts shared how China is using AR, VR and AI technologies to preserve and showcase ancient cultural heritage along the river. These technologies ensure that traditions remain visible and accessible in the digital age. "This integration of cultural revitalization and ecological continuity reflects China's traditional wisdom of harmony between humanity and nature, and provides a Chinese solution for global sustainable development," said Ren Hui, an official with the Yangtze River National Cultural Park. China has actively supported the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and has worked with partner countries to establish multilateral mechanisms such as the China-EU Water Policy Dialogue and Lancang-Mekong Cooperation, promoting reforms in global ecological governance. Chinese companies have designed or built major water infrastructure projects, including the Karot Hydropower Station in Pakistan, the Kaleta Hydropower Station in Guinea, and the Upper Atbara Water Project in Sudan. These projects have helped local communities enhance their water supply and improve electricity access, benefiting millions of people. "River governance should not be carried out behind closed doors," said Wu Changhua, chair of the Governing Council of the Asia-Pacific Water Forum Governing Council. "We have much to learn from each other. And our mission is to link these scattered river cultures into a cohesive regional whole, promoting their influence beyond borders." (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) African officials hail innovation cooperation with China as transformative force Xinhua) 14:38, September 28, 2025 ADDIS ABABA, Sept. 27 (Xinhua) -- Senior African officials and experts have praised the rapidly deepening cooperation between Africa and China in science, technology, and innovation, describing it as a transformative partnership crucial for achieving modernization and sustainable development across the continent. This came during the China-Africa Innovation Cooperation Day, held at the African Union (AU) headquarters in the Ethiopian capital of Addis Ababa on Friday, under the theme "New Opportunities for Innovation Cooperation: Joining Hands to Realize Modernization." Ethiopia's Minister of Innovation and Technology Belete Molla underscored the partnership as a cornerstone of South-South cooperation that is "reshaping futures and redefining global development narratives." "Our collaboration with China is more than a diplomatic alignment; it is a living model. It is not merely transactional, but indeed transformational. Together, we are charting a course toward common prosperity and a more equitable international order," said Molla. Molla emphasized Ethiopia's commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technologies, such as artificial intelligence and cybersecurity, to ensure that its people are not left behind in the digital revolution. Echoing the sentiment of a shared future, Gaspard Banyankimbona, AU commissioner for education, science, technology, and innovation, stressed that science and technology are "essential drivers of resilience, inclusive growth, and dignity." "This partnership is, therefore, grounded in mutual learning, equity, and shared accountability," Banyankimbona said, pointing to Africa's potential to speed up its transformation by adapting Chinese solutions in areas like agriculture, digital infrastructure, and water management. "Innovation cooperation is at the center of science diplomacy. It fosters political trust, strengthens economies, and enhances solidarity between Africa and China," he added. The high-level event brought together policymakers, diplomats, and experts to chart the future of Sino-African collaborative efforts. The gathering, which also featured an exhibition and seminars on sustainable development and new energy, sets the stage for a continued and deepening strategic partnership aimed at a shared and innovative future. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) Despite the arrests Defend Our Juries said more than 1,100 people have already registered to participate in the next mass sign-holding and are willing to be arrested. At least 1,500 people have signed up to attend, it has been reported. When fundraising for the 2024 election year wrapped, Gov. Greg Abbotts campaign reported raising more than $50 million in contributions. Not bad for a Republican governor running for reelection in the nations second-largest state. There's no arguing that. But Abbott wasnt on the ballot in 2024. Two years earlier, the governor had easily won a third term, and before he filed his campaign finance paperwork in January 2025, speculation swirled that he might not seek a fourth. Abbott ended the speculation when the paperwork showed he had $70 million in the bank well ahead of the 2026 midterms. And that mountain kept growing. Even though Abbott and other statewide officials were barred by law from raising money during the regular legislative session until it adjourned in June, he still collected another $20 million by the time he filed his July report, pushing his account to about $87 million. Advertisement Article continues below this ad Gov. Greg Abbott Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman He has likely continued raising money, though he wont have to disclose the totals for several more months. Put another way: Democrats may have as many as 100 million reasons to avoid challenging Abbott in 2026 and every one of them comes with a dollar sign. Last week, one credible Democrat did step forward. Houston entrepreneur Andrew White, whose late father was governor from 1983 to 1987, announced he is reprising his 2018 campaign, hoping not to sputter in the primary as he did nearly eight years ago. Democratic state Rep. Gina Hinojosa has also signaled she plans to enter the race, buying up domain names containing at least some version of her name and the word "governor." Statesman Logo Want more Statesman? Make us a Preferred Source on Google to see more of us when you search. Add Preferred Source Advertisement Article continues below this ad Nothing against Hinojosa or White or any other Democrat who might jump in but even at this early stage, the structural advantages clearly favor Abbott. No Democrat has been elected governor since 1990, and none has won a statewide race since 1994. And with the possible exception of former U.S. Rep. Beto ORourke, Abbotts 2022 opponent, no Democrat in the mix has shown an ability to raise tens of millions like Abbott. All this raises a basic question for Democrats in the 2026 governors race: Why bother? The identical question surfaced in 1998, when Gov. George W. Bush ran for reelection. Bushs popularity was unmatched for a Texas governor, and he was already considered the frontrunner for the 2000 GOP presidential nomination. The top two legislative leaders were Democrats, and both openly praised the Republican governor. Then-Lt. Gov. Bob Bullock, the state Senates presiding officer and the most powerful Democrat in Texas, said any challenge to Bush would be a kamikaze mission. Bullock was proven right when Bush won more than 68% of the vote in 1998. But Bush still campaigned, and Democrats fielded credible candidates in down-ballot statewide races. They all lost, but many kept the margins close. Democrats retained their majority in the state House and in Texas congressional delegation that cycle. Advertisement Article continues below this ad This time, big-name Democrats for statewide races are scarce. State Sen. Nathan Johnson of Dallas and former Galveston Mayor Joe Jaworski are running for attorney general, and state Rep. Vikki Goodwin of Austin is a candidate for lieutenant governor. But none has ever appeared on a statewide general election ballot. And theres been little sign of Democrats preparing to compete farther down the ballot. And that brings the focus back to Abbotts money. If the Democratic nominee flames out, the $100 million or so Abbott has to spend could be redirected to Republicans in tighter contests. That means swing legislative and congressional districts can expect Abbotts money and campaign visits where local Republicans share the stage with the governor. And if the U.S. Senate race expected to be the most competitive and best-funded statewide contest for Democrats is a nail-biter in fall 2026, Abbott could appear alongside either incumbent Sen. John Cornyn or GOP challenger Ken Paxton, adding his resources to late get-out-the-vote pushes. 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(Jeff Gritchen, Orange County Register/SCNG) (Tribune News Service) In the sweeping Southern California metropolis spanning from Santa Barbara to the Mexico border, Camp Pendleton has long remained the largest undeveloped stretch of the coastline. The 17 miles of beach and coastal hills has, since World War II, proven critical in preparing soldiers for amphibious missions. The bluffs, canyons and mountainous terrain that comprise the interior of the base has been fertile training ground for those sent to conflicts in the Middle East and beyond. But change may be on the horizon. The Department of Defense is considering making a portion of the 125,000 acre base in northwestern San Diego County available for development or lease in what, if successful, would be unprecedented for the military installation. Theres no place in Southern California like Camp Pendleton when it comes to open space along the coast, said Bill Fulton, a professor of practice in the Department of Urban Studies and Planning at UC San Diego. In late August, Secretary of the Navy John Phelan conducted an aerial tour of Camp Pendleton and visited with Marines at the base where he had initial conversations about possible commercial leasing opportunities by the Department of Defense, Phelans spokesperson Courtney Williams told The Times. These opportunities are being evaluated to maximize value and taxpayer dollars while maintaining mission readiness and security, Williams said in a statement. No decisions have been made and further discussions are needed. A Marine fires a Switchblade 300 loitering munition at Camp Pendleton, Calif., on Aug. 14, 2024. (Jaye Townsend/U.S. Marine Corps) Details about the sites being considered for commercial lease remain unclear. Officials with Camp Pendleton declined to comment to The Times. Discussions over the 83-year-old base comes at a time when the Trump administration is more aggressively trying to use public lands to raise money for the federal government and rolling back protections on open space. The administration this month proposed rescinding a Biden-era rule that sought to protect public lands from industrial development and instead prioritizing the use of the land for oil and gas drilling, coal mining, timber production and livestock grazing. Secretary Doug Burgum has repeatedly emphasized that federal lands are untapped assets worth trillions of dollars. We believe that our natural resources are national assets that should be responsibly developed to grow our economy, help balance the Budget, and generate revenue for American taxpayers, he said in a statement to Congress in May. While there has been development on Camp Pendleton those projects have solely been for military uses. A large hospital was recently added, and there are various buildings for the bases more than 42,000 active duty personnel. Camp Pendleton has won praise for balancing national security needs with environmental preservation. A Marine Corps CH-53 Super Stallion dumps water it collected from Pulgas Lake on nearby land at Camp Pendleton, Calif., as part of a wildfire fighting training exercise. (Stars and Stripes) In 2022, Camp Pendleton was named the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services military conservation partner of the year for its efforts to support the recovery of several species, including the tidewater goby, coastal California gnatcatcher, the arroyo toad and southern California steelhead. Conservation and management of the least Bells vireo, California least tern, and western snowy plover have resulted in significant increases to on-base populations of these species, according to the agency. In addition to endangered populations, the base is home to a herd of North American bison, one of only two wild conservation herds of bison in California. Past efforts to build more on the camp have not been popular with the public. In the mid-1990s, the U.S. Marine Corps put forth a plan to build 128 homes for officers and their families on a 32-acre bluff at San Mateo Point near Trestles Beach, one of the nations most famous surfing spots. The California Coastal Commission ultimately rejected the project. In 2021, the Department of the Navy issued a request for information to seek feedback on hosting critical energy and water infrastructure resiliency projects on a portion of Camp Pendleton. In the document, the department sought information on long-term partnerships to plan, design, construct and operate facilities that could include energy generation, transmission and storage, microgrid technologies, water desalination, drought mitigation, stormwater management, reuse or alternative use of decommissioned energy infrastructure, high speed fiber communications, data centers or residential, commercial or industrial purposes. It is not clear whether any potential projects were identified from the request for information. Camp Pendleton Marine Corps Base sign outside the main gate of the base. (UT File Photo, San Diego Union-Tribune/TNS) NBC News reported that funds from development on Camp Pendleton could potentially fund Trumps Golden Dome missile defense project, citing defense sources. But officials have not publicly specified where funds would be allocated. Absent specifics, its challenging for people in the areas immediately around the base to know what to expect and how to prepare, Fulton said. Are we talking about little shopping centers or high-rise hotels? he said. You would assume that the military has certain constraints that they would want to impose to protect their activities, but we just dont know. Given the bases coastal location, development on the site could certainly be fruitful for the federal government. Developers have long had their eye on smaller swaths of coastal land in Southern California. Years-long battles between developers and environmentalists were waged in the fight over proposed housing and commercial developments at Bolsa Chica in Huntington Beach and Banning Ranch in Newport Beach. Ultimately, those projects were scrapped. Camp Pendleton, bordered by San Clemente to the north and Oceanside to the south, opened in 1942 during World War II at a time when the military was looking for large places to train soldiers, particularly for amphibious missions in the Pacific. It became a permanent installation two years later and has trained thousands of service members, sending troops to battle in Operation Desert Storm and the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Camp Pendleton has a deeply entwined relationship with its southern neighbor, Oceanside, once a sleepy beachside town turned military city and recreation hub. In 1940, the citys population was 4,652. Ten years later, it had swelled to more than 12,800 and grew further as the United States entered the Korean War and more service-connected families moved into the region, according to census data. Development on the base would certainly have an effect on Oceanside, city leaders say. Service members and their families frequently travel off the base to surrounding communities to shop and dine out, providing a steady customer supply for local businesses including those that cater heavily to Marines including dry cleaners, tailors, barbershops and military surplus stores. The bases regional economic impact is more than $6 billion dollars annually, according to the city. I think it would be very concerning to see large scale development without collaboration with local municipalities, said Oceanside Deputy Mayor Eric Joyce. Joyce said the city hasnt yet been given any insight into the federal governments plans for the base. We have neighborhoods that are literally right up to the gate, who are very impacted when there are changes in traffic or other developments there, Joyce said, adding that the city has a deep respect for the base and any shifting away from its original mission of training Marines would be deeply concerning. This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times . 2025 Los Angeles Times. Visit latimes.com . (Kim Ki Sam/Stars and Stripes) Dien Ban, South Vietnam, Nov. 25, 1968: An unidentified Marine crouches down on one knee as G Company, 2nd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division makes a stop during a sweep through paddies and villages near Dien Ban, 10 miles south of Da Nang. The Marines are part of Operation Meade River, a cordon and search operation conducted by several regiments of the 1st Marine Div. and the South Vietnamese Army. The operation which started November 20th and would end December 9th had American Marines and South Vietnamese troops 7,000 strong systematically tightened a 15-mile circle in the Dodge City area south of Da Nang where between 200 and 900 Viet Cong and North Vietnamese Army were holed up in caves and dugouts. The nickname was given due to frequent ambushes, firefights and rocket attacks on U.S. troops. Apart from eliminating those threats, one of the cordons other objectives was to kill or capture the estimated 150 Communist politicians operating around Dien Ban. You can watch and read about the first keynote at Okta's Oktane 2025 conference, titled: KEYNOTE VIDEO: New Okta innovations secure the 'AI-Driven Enterprise' and combat fraud with an 'Identity Security Fabric'. The second and third keynotes from the Oktane Day 1 2025 conference, titled: "Oktane 2025 Day 1, Keynotes 2 and 3: Protect every identity, AI agent, and app with one identity security fabric" is here. Here is the day one closing keynote with Jeremy Renner: Renner explains that balancing his "traveling carnival" job with family is difficult. Since his daughter, Ava, was born when he was 42, she has been his number one priority. He considers being a father his greatest role and has limited his work to prioritise her, stating no job or movie is more important. Renner discusses landing the role of Hawkeye after the success of "Hurt Locker." He describes the initial experience as surreal, like a "Halloween party." He reflects on the franchise's global success and cherishes the family-like bond formed with the original six Avengers over 13-15 years, maintaining a group chat with them. The Experience of Being Part of the Marvel Universe and the Avengers Action is a core principle for Renner, representing the opposite of complacency. He believes action requires courage and finds joy in overcoming obstacles. He asserts that our actions define us, and he prefers to let his actions speak louder than his words. Renner believes the struggles he endured early in his career, such as living on $5 a month, are what give his later successes value. He states that the relief from overcoming adversity is the "greatest sort of value" he gets from life, more than fame or awards. The Value of Struggle and Overcoming Adversity Jeremy Renner recounts how he discovered acting at a junior college. His father advised him to take various classes and not be afraid to fail. An acting class "stuck," leading him to a 30-plus-year career he feels blessed to have. Kerry Ok, Okta's Chief Market Officer, welcomes everyone to Oktane, Okta's biggest event. She thanks the sponsors and introduces the "Just One Project," a charity supporting the Southern Nevada community. Instead of corporate swag, the company is investing in this project. Welcome to the Octane Event and Introduction of the "Just One Project" The profound impact of fatherhood and family connection. The birth of his daughter was a profound moment, particularly the 'Palmer's reflex,' which made him understand 'real love' and gave him a great sense of purpose, strengthening his connection to his family. The scale and closeness of his extended family. His family is very large, requiring buses for outings. He humorously notes his family's size, mentioning he has only one child himself. Family unity through shared purpose and philanthropy. His family is now united in working for his foundation, which helps foster youth. This has become their way of sharing love and spending time together, shifting from traditional activities like playing cornhole on the 4th of July to hosting camps for kids. The personal and public aftermath of his accident. The accident on New Year's Day was a private incident that became public. He initially disliked the attention but found it paved the way to share his experience, leading to a 'humanization' and 'real connection' with people, affording him real purpose. Personal mantras and the foundational role of family love in building resilience. He lives by mantras such as 'I'll never have a bad day for the rest of my life,' 'milestones over tombstones,' and 'Information is what squelches fear.' He attributes his honesty and resilience to the 'safe landing spot of love' provided by his family. Critique of societal setup for complacency and the need for self-challenge. He believes society and human brains are programmed for laziness. He argues that good things are difficult and require challenging oneself, citing cold plunges as an example of something that is beneficial despite being unpleasant. Concerns about the criminal use of AI and its potential to negatively impact society. He is concerned about the malicious use of AI, revealing that there are 2,500 active scam accounts using his voice and likeness to defraud people trying to donate to his foundation. He views AI as a tool that can be great but also dangerous and can make people lazier. The vulnerability of the nonprofit sector to cyberattacks. The interviewer notes that the nonprofit sector is the second most attacked sector by cybercriminals because they often lack deep IT teams. Okta is working to address this issue. Future plans focused on family, philanthropy, and career. His future is driven by intention and purpose, focusing on his family, growing his nationwide nonprofit for foster youth, and continuing his work on his TV show. U.S. Air Force retired Lt. Col. George E. Hardy, a Tuskegee Airman, stands next to his former P-51D Mustang at Royal Air Force Lakenheath, England, Oct. 4, 2016. (Senior Airman Malcolm Mayfield/U.S. Air Force) One of the last surviving Tuskegee Airmen, Lt. Col. (Ret.) George Hardy, has died at 100. Hardys death was announced by the Tuskegee Airmen, Inc. National Office on Friday. His legacy is one of courage, resilience, tremendous skill and dogged perseverance against racism, prejudice, and other evils, the Tuskegee Airmen Inc. National Office said We are forever grateful for his sacrifice and will hold dear to his memory. Hardy flew 21 combat missions over Germany and occupied Europe during World War II piloting a P-51 Mustang aircraft, often escorting heavy bombers. He was the youngest Red Tail fighter pilot at 19 to fly his first combat sortie over Europe. He then flew 45 combat missions during the Korean War, and 70 during the Vietnam War. In 1944, Hardy joined the U.S. Army Air Forces and completed the Aviation Cadet Training Program at Tuskegee Army Air Field in Alabama. He deployed in early 1945 to Italy and served with the African American 99th Fighter Squadron, 332nd Fighter Group, according to The National WWII Museum. After nearly 30 years of service, Hardy retired in 1971 at the rank of lieutenant colonel, and continued to share the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen with people across the nation. The Tuskegee Airmen were an all African-American fighter group during World War II and consisted of more than 900 pilots who maintained and flew combat missions. Hardy was born in 1925 in Philadelphia and was the second-oldest child of seven. He earned a bachelors degree in electrical engineering and a masters in systems engineering at the U.S. Air Force Institute of Technology in Dayton, Ohio. He also worked on the Defense Departments first worldwide military telephone system. Update: Suspect in fatal shooting of Mattydale store clerk dies by suicide; clerk identified Original article Mattydale, N.Y. A man in his 30s was fatally shot outside a convenience store in Mattydale late Sunday morning, according to the Onondaga County Sheriffs Office. Around 11:30 a.m., deputies responded to the shooting at Mattydale Express at 2107 Brewerton Road, according to the sheriffs office spokesperson Thomas Newton. When deputies arrived, they found the man had been shot multiple times. Deputies told Onondaga County 911 Center dispatchers to alert staff at Upstate University Hospital that the victim was shot in the abdomen and chest. The victim was pronounced dead at the hospital, Newton said. The victims name has not yet been released. No arrests have been made at this time. Dispatchers told deputies the suspect fled the scene in a vehicle. Each week, syracuse.com will look back at some of our most important and valuable journalism from the previous week. Here are six stories for the week of Sept. 21, 2025. Subscribe to get the Syracuse.com Exclusives newsletter delivered to your email inbox every Sunday. Syracuse brothers Greg (left) and Colin Cleghorn, founders of IronHorn Enterprises, have become among the most prolific buyers of industrial properties in New York. (Rick Moriarty | rmoriarty@syracuse.com) Rick Moriarty | rmoriarty@syracuse.com Two Syracuse brothers who started out buying $1 homes have built a multi-state real estate empire worth $275 million. While in their 20s, Colin and Greg Cleghorn became among Syracuses biggest residential landlords. Now in their 30s, they have pivoted to being among the states most prolific buyers of industrial properties. Driving the shift for Syracuses property brothers? The rapid growth of e-commerce, which is greatly increasing the need for warehousing and distribution centers throughout the country. On a night shift in January 2024, two deputies were sifting through thousands of bail bond records at the Onondaga County Justice Center jail. The deputies, Sgt. Ashley Keeney and Deputy David Mazzoni, were asked to review the records after prosecutors received a tip that a series of fraudulent bail bonds had been used to get people out of jail. The work was tedious and time-consuming because all the records were on paper. As they were poring over the records, a man walked in to file a bond. One of the deputies noticed the judges signature didnt look right. That chance meeting and the deputys sharp eyes helped blow apart a huge bail fraud scheme, according to former prosecutor Peter Hakes. New York is poised to become only the third state in the nation to pass a law rejecting anonymous reports of child abuse in a move to cut false tips. The change, years in the making, won broad bipartisan support from state lawmakers in June. The measure passed the state Senate 60-2 and the Assembly by a vote of 109-36. But now the bill has run into a potential roadblock on its way to Gov. Kathy Hochuls desk to be signed into law. Lixing Chen went to his immigration appointment Sept. 15 just as he had the three times before, said his son, Andy Chen. Andy drove. When Chen went into the building for his appointment, Andy waited in the car, he said. He watched the glass door of the ICE building in a suburban office park for two hours. Andys dad did not come out. Finally, Andy said, a federal agent with Immigration and Customs Enforcement came out to the car and told him his father had been detained. Doris Aleman-Bonilla is expected to plead guilty Monday in federal court to a lesser immigration charge after two hung juries and six months in jail. Aleman-Bonilla, 30, of Honduras, was charged with illegal re-entry, a felony, after a Border Patrol agent and an Oswego County sheriffs deputy pulled over her car and arrested her in April. Aleman-Bonilla fought the charge at trial first in July and again last week. Two juries of 12 people failed to come to consensus. The president of a Syracuse University fraternity said an antisemitic attack on the fraternity on Rosh Hashanah was an act of ignorance, intolerance and hatred. Around 6 p.m. Tuesday, a student entered the Zeta Beta Tau fraternity on Walnut Street and threw a clear plastic bag of pork that hit a wall in the house. Students inside were marking the Jewish New Year, one of the High Holy Days in Judaism. Syracuse police in court papers said the incident was a religiously motivated attack on the historically Jewish fraternity. Good news for TikTok fans: after months of uncertainty and ban threats, the app with more than 170 million U.S. users is here to stay in the country. On Thursday, President Donald Trump signed an executive order approving a plan that would transfer control of the apps U.S. operations to a group of American operations, addressing national security concerns tied to its Chinese parent company, ByteDance. TikTok has grown into a cultural powerhouse, providing careers for countless creators and a major advertising tool for businesses. But U.S. lawmakers have long feared that ByteDance could be forced to hand over U.S. user data to the Chinese government or spread propaganda. Those concerns led to a 2024 law requiring TikTok to divest its U.S. business or face a nationwide ban. How The Deal Works Under the new deal, TikToks U.S. operations will be run by a joint-venture company majority-owned and controlled by a group of U.S. investors. Oracle will play a central role, not only providing cloud services but also acting as TikToks security watchdog ensuring user data is stored on American servers and retraining TikToks recommendation algorithm with U.S.-approved information. The consortium of U.S. investors including Oracle, Silver Lake Management, Andreessen Horowitz, and Susquehanna International is expected to hold about 80% of the new entity. Meanwhile, ByteDance keeps a stake of less than 20% but loses control of user data, moderation, and algorithms. A seven-member board six Americans and one ByteDance representative will oversee the company. What This Means For Users For everyday TikTok users, the app will remain available. Creators will still be able to post dance videos, tutorials, and political commentary. Businesses will be able to use the platform for advertising. However, at some point, Americans may eventually be asked to download a new U.S.-specific version of TikTok, with the app largely offering the same experience. The global TikTok app will continue to operate under ByteDances full control outside the U.S. Trump Hails $14B TikTok Deal The deal values TikToks U.S. business at roughly $14 billion and must be finalized in the next 120 days. President Trump framed the agreement as a win for both national security and American business. Its owned by Americans, and very sophisticated Americans, he said at the signing ceremony, noting that big names like Oracles Larry Ellison and Dell CEO Michael Dell are part of the deal. Vice President JD Vance confirmed the valuation but noted the deal still requires Chinas approval. While reports suggest that Chinese President Xi Jinping has signaled support, Beijings final stance remains unclear. ByteDances Role Raises Questions Despite ByteDances reduced but not eliminated role, the company is expected to play a significant role, especially in TikToks e-commerce and advertising operations. This has already raised concerns among some lawmakers. Representative John Moolenaar, chair of the House Select Committee on China, said Congress is expected to review the deal closely in the coming weeks and ensure it fully complies with the divestment law. The Bigger Picture After months of extended deadlines, court battles, and tense negotiations, the TikTok deal marks a pivotal moment. Whether this model works smoothly or sparks new legal and political battles could shape how the U.S. deals with foreign-owned digital platforms in the future. Namibia deploys hundreds of soldiers to fight Etosha fire Windhoek, Sept 28 (AFP) Sep 28, 2025 Namibia began deploying hundreds of soldiers on Sunday to fight a fire that has burned through a third of the vast Etosha National Park, one of Africa's largest game reserves, officials said. The park in the north of the largely desert nation is home to 114 species of mammals, notably the critically endangered black rhinoceros, and is a major tourist attraction. The fire had been raging since September 22 and has caused extensive ecological damage, already burning through about 34 percent of the park, the environment ministry said. After an emergency cabinet meeting Saturday, the government said 500 extra soldiers would be deployed from Sunday to assist teams of troops, police, locals and other firefighters at the scene, Prime Minister Tjitunga Elijah Nguare's office said in a post on Facebook. "The order was given that the troops must be deployed, and if all are not on the ground yet, they will be there soon," Defence Minister Frans Kapofi told AFP Sunday. "They are deployed from various regions and will be deployed to all affected areas," he said. At least nine antelopes have been killed in the blaze, which is believed to have started from charcoal production activities on bordering commercial farms, the ministry said. The main feature of the 22,270 square-kilometre (8,600 square-mile) park is the ancient Etosha salt pan, which is around 130 kilometres long and 50 kilometres wide and draws huge flocks of flamingoes during the rainy season. Namibia deploys 500 soldiers to fight Etosha fire Windhoek, Sept 28 (AFP) Sep 28, 2025 Namibia deployed 500 soldiers Sunday to help to fight a fire that has burned through a third of the vast Etosha National Park, one of Africa's largest game reserves, officials said. The park in the north of the largely desert nation is home to 114 species of mammals, notably the critically endangered black rhinoceros, and is a major tourist attraction. The fire started on September 22 and spread rapidly because of strong winds and dry vegetation, causing extensive ecological damage, the environment ministry and presidency said. The tourism ministry announced it had closed certain tourist routes and warned visitors to be cautious as the wind direction could change unpredictably. After an emergency cabinet meeting Saturday, the government deployed 500 troops and two helicopters to the area on Sunday to help fire-fighting efforts, the presidency said in a statement. The reinforcements joined 40 soldiers who arrived on Saturday to assist police, locals and people from nearby farms and private enterprises who had already been fighting the flames, it said. The extra troops "are deployed from various regions and will be deployed to all affected areas," Defence Minister Frans Kapofi told AFP. "An unknown number of wildlife had been killed, whilst, thankfully, no human casualties have been reported," the presidency said, adding that the blaze had spread into some communal areas. "The fire poses a significant threat to the biodiversity, wildlife and livelihood of the communities in the affected areas. Approximately 30 percent of the grazing in the park has been destroyed by the fire," it said, adding it was still trying to establish what ignited the blaze. The environment ministry said Saturday at least nine antelopes had been killed in the blaze, which was believed to have started from charcoal production activities on commercial farms bordering Etosha National Park (ENP). "The ecological damage inside ENP is extensive, with an estimated 775,163 hectares (1.9 million acres), approximately 34 percent of the park, burned," it said. The presidency said information provided by teams on the ground indicated that the fire was under control Sunday in some regions but mainly continuing in the Omusati region near the border with Angola. The park stretches across 22,270 square kilometres (8,600 square miles) and its main feature is the ancient Etosha salt pan, which is around 130 kilometres long and 50 kilometres wide and draws huge flocks of migratory flamingoes during the rainy season. Zurich votes to ban petrol leaf blowers Geneva, Sept 28 (AFP) Sep 28, 2025 Residents of Zurich voted Sunday to ban the use of petrol-fuelled leaf blowers and leaf vacuums over noise and air pollution concerns in public and private spaces. Switzerland's system of direct democracy allows citizens to launch referendums if they collect a minimum number of signatures. Zurich had previously decided to ban petrol-fuelled leaf blowers and leaf vacuum cleaners, which faced criticism for being too loud and spreading dust. But right-wing parties brought the issue to a vote, hoping to overturn the decision. Zurich's residents did not answer their call, with more than 61% in favour of the restriction. However, leaf blowers and vacuums are not entirely forbidden in the country's largest city. Electric devices can still be used, but only from October to December. In the Swiss canton of Thurgau, residents also voted to relax an old ban on non-religious events, including dancing, during five public holidays -- Christmas, Good Friday, Easter Sunday, Pentecost Sunday, and on the Federal Day of Thanksgiving, Repentance, and Prayer. Opposing this change, Thurgau's far-right had initiated the referendum. The vote was very close, but the revision to the so-called dance ban was approved with 51.1% of the vote. Cultural and sporting events will now be permitted in Thurgau, but they must be held indoors with no more than 500 participants. Summer 2025: a season of discontent. Wars raged, mobs descended on hotels housing refugees, and far-right figureheads swigged their ordinary-bloke-cosplay pints while admiring their formidable polling. Yet, while the rest of the summer marched for Palestine, against immigrants or to sing sweary versions of Hey Baby at Donald Trump, Manchester perfected its duck-like swagger and went for a Wonderwalk. You came out into Piccadilly station and theres huge murals, massive pictures of Liam and Noel everywhere you look, says Hamish MacBain co-author of recent Oasis book A Sound So Very Loud who followed the signposted trail from the station to Heaton Park for the bands first hometown gig in 16 years in July. [I] went into WH Smiths to get a drink and Columbia was blaring out. Every cafe had soup and a roll with it or Digsys Dinner All the way, every bar, every cafe, at 10 in the morning, was celebrating Oasis. It felt like the takeover of a city. On whats been dubbed Gallagher Hill, overlooking Heaton Park, ticketless fans gathered in their thousands to sing along to the show; across the city, bars were crammed with roaring fans insisting that Sally wait. Out in the scrum of it, Inspiral Carpets Clint Boon was DJing to the crowds. Ive never seen [the city] like that ever, he tells me. It was a sea of people in bucket hats and the mood was like the end of World War II. As the UK leg of Oasiss much-celebrated reunion tour reaches its climax at Wembley Stadium this weekend, there can be no better summation of how the shows beside perhaps Glastonbury and the Lionesses historic Euros win have been virtually the summers sole saviour. And Oasis hysteria wasnt confined to Manchester. Across festival season, the bucket hat and Adidas combo made a major comeback, nightclubs rocked anew to Supersonic and Some Might Say and mini-festivals sprang up at every stop, with fans flocking from across the country to join in the Mardy Gras. This was more than just a tour; this was an explosive moment of national pride, relief, triumph and release lighting up an otherwise bleak, post-pandemic age. Its what weve needed, says author Irvine Welsh, who saw the band play in Edinburgh in August and loved it so much he intends to fly to Argentina to catch more shows later this year. Since lockdown, weve needed big collective events to get people back out onto the streets its great to see that kind of positivity. You look at why people come out on the street en masse now and its always things that are generated by fear, protest, or insecurity and hate. Its so good to have people coming out to big events that are just joyous. That a fervent scrum of 14 million people applied online for tickets only helped intensify both anticipation for the tour and, inside the stadiums, the unprecedented scenes of communal celebration among the lucky few. The vibe was insane, says Tim Wheeler of Ash, who saw one of the bands seven Wembley gigs. I dont think Ive ever seen a show where the crowd has carried the whole thing. [It was] all generations as well. You could see a lot of people going with their kids, but the kids were fully decked out in all the gear, just as hardcore as the parents. People were so emotional and to see a whole stadium jumping like that was impressive. open image in gallery People were so emotional: Oasis fans at the GNP Seguros Stadium in Mexico City, 12 September 2025 ( AFP/Getty ) Boon found it heartening to see a rocknroll band inspiring such strong emotions. It showed the unity, how songs can unite millions of people, he says. Everybodys buzzing, everybodys coming together, people whove never met each other hugging and crying I think thats a beautiful thing. As a nation, we need more of that kind of thing at the moment and less of the divisive stuff thats going on. Indeed, the stark contrast between the jubilant mood at and around Oasis gigs and the sour, combative state of global events and online discourse from Ukraine and Gaza, to Labour and Reforms anti-immigrant rhetoric, the UKs flag protests and the still-spluttering Twitter/X bin fire has served to make Oasis a singular shining beacon of the Great British spirit in 2025. For two hours you completely forget about all the s*** thats happening in the world at the moment, says Wheeler. For McBain, it was a natural result of the bands escapist music. I read something in The Times about Radiohead coming back and their outspoken views on Gaza and all this stuff, he says, and it said, Unlike Oasis, who forget that the world outside the stadium even exists They obviously meant that as an insult, but to me thats literally what youre aiming for. You want to get 80,000 people in a stadium and just forget about whats going on for two hours. open image in gallery Liam and Noel Gallagher onstage on their reunion tour ( AFP/Getty ) An experience gilded by the redemptive nature of the Gallagher brothers reconciliation itself. Theres such a story with Oasis, that after all this feuding theyre back together and managed to bury the hatchet, says Wheeler. People are emotionally invested in it. The happy resolution of this long-running soap opera, which MacBain calls part of the fabric of British life, has certainly struck a chord with the silent, decent majority, the years one high-profile indication that humanity still exists. Its the best feelgood story of this decade, Boon argues. Its a bit of a fairytale. Some of us knew that this would happen and it was gonna happen sooner rather than later, the reunion. Nobody died or ran off with somebodys wife. It was just a couple of lads who had a bit of a fall-out. Financially, the shows have been a major economic boost and not just to the Gallaghers pockets. Research published online by Dr Charles Nimoh, macroeconomic expert at the University of Salford, found that the tour has caused a noticeable ripple effect on the UK economy to the tune of an estimated 940m, with each show resulting in around 55m in local economic activity and 426m generated in London alone. Every city hosting an Oasis gig turned into a mini-festival, his report concluded. Oasis got back together, fans lost their voices, pubs ran out of beer, and the UK made a fortune. The effects of this epic tour will be felt for a long time. Theres such a story with Oasis, that after all this feuding theyre back together and managed to bury the hatchet Tim Wheeler, Ash Musically too. In the Nineties, Oasis were merely the biggest band of a decade-defining Cool Britannia moment that involved many moving parts, from Geri Halliwells dress to Chris Evans toothbrush. In 2025 however even with last years Blur comeback still warm and Pulp touring a new album they seem to stand alone in terms of sheer cultural stature, as if solely defining Britpop. But they dont exist in an online vacuum; many of Oasiss contemporaries are seeing a knock-on effect from the reunion. There were lots of younger people there last night and it's great, Suedes Mat Osman told me the morning after the first show of their recent Southbank takeover series. You see them online talking about how they got there often they saw an Oasis thing, then they read about Britpop, and then theyre like oh, Suede started this. Ash have also seen their fans grow younger and their streaming numbers rocket this summer. There does seem to be a strong interest in Nineties music, says Wheeler. Early on in the summer, I did see a really strong rise in our Spotify numbers, which I think probably was the algorithm throwing our songs in after some Oasis [tracks] sometimes, or Britpop playlists getting heavily hammered at the moment. Boon (who tours the UK with Inspiral Carpets in November and December) has noted a rejuvenated interest in the era, both at gigs and during his DJ sets. Its definitely given guitar music a little boost that was needed, he says. I bet theres a lot of kids whove gone out and got guitars as a result of it. Youll probably get a lot of people that will emulate Oasis but therell be others who make some mad noise and it could become the next punk revolution. While The Independents sources have debunked whispers of further shows to come next year, we might still be on the cusp of an Oasis-inspired rock revival. Im hoping that something really good comes of it, Welsh says. That it gets people interested in playing guitars, gets them interested in joining bands, gets them interested in writing songs together. People should want to be Liam and Noel Gallagher. They shouldnt just be worshipping at that church, they should be thinking, These are ordinary guys that came from the same background as me, I should be up there doing this kind of s*** as well. open image in gallery Irvine Welsh: Im hoping something really good comes of the Oasis tour ( AFP via Getty Images ) Historically, such moments of cultural euphoria have had empowering effects on the generations that owned them. Think of the countercultural explosions that followed Beatlemania, or the rush of youth optimism that met New Labour in the wake of Britpop. This time may well be different, argues Ian Pace, Professor of Music, Culture and Society at City St Georges, University of London, who lectures on British music and society since 1945. Oasis have become iconic of a particular era when so much looked fresh, optimistic, full of possibilities, to which many now look back with nostalgia, he says, pointing to the vast chasm between the rejuvenating late-Nineties change of political guard driven by inclusive young people reclaiming the national identity and todays world of toxic infighting, economic decline, Starmerite uncertainty and the diminished standing of Brexit Britain. The result might instead be a yearning after past ideals amongst their (predominantly male) fans, which, Pace fears, could dovetail with todays rising populism. At the moment I would imagine Oasis-mania and the new flag-wavers are distinct groups, he says, but it is certainly possible to imagine the two coming together. I wouldnt rule out the possibility that this sort of fandom could take on a darker tinge. Welsh, on the other hand, sees the Oasis gatherings as the diametric opposite of the recent Tommy Robinson march. Theres nobody there thinking that theyre better or superior to anybody else, he says. [Theres no] exceptionalism, theres no notion of confrontation or aggression. Theres so much love in the stadium Its not unity for the sake of denigrating somebody else. And we can only hope its this sentiment, rather than any sort of back-looking anger, that the nation takes to heart. Get the inside track from Roisin O'Connor with our free weekly music newsletter Now Hear This Get our free music newsletter Now Hear This Get our free music newsletter Now Hear This Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice The American pop-rock star Renee Rapp recently earned a UK No 1 with her spunky, defiant second album, Bite Me. It was an achievement that pleased her, even if it didnt quite thrill her. Her old team used to be very American, very grandiose in that way, she says, doing a lightly hysterical, nasal impression of them from a chair in Universals London HQ: Youve worked so hard and this is everything and oh my God and oh my God and if your younger self could see The 25-year-old slaps her thighs as she replies back to them: We gotta pack it up. Im not curing cancer. Its better to be neutral about achievements anyway, shes realised. Those [successes] will never feel as high as making a record and I used to think that they would and they do not, and thats OK. To conclude: I was pleased with it being No 1. Its a measured approach to winning from such a resolute character, a vivacious musician whose music is equal parts big belting vocals, jazz hands energy and messy gay relationship themes. One whose star began to rise years before her 2023 debut album with a role as Regina George, ultimate sovereign of the school cafeteria, in Mean Girls on Broadway, a part that earned Rapp a Queen Bee reputation that often precedes her. Between 2021 and 2024, Rapp also starred in HBO Maxs queer teen drama The Sex Lives of College Girls, a show I admit I havent seen, and I suspect she wont mind, given the rumours that for her it was more miserable to make than it ever could be to watch. Girl, neither have I, she says flatly. Theres no need for you to watch it. Let me f***ing tell you right now. You are fine. You are not missing anything. Maybe that was obvious from Leave Me Alone, the opening track and lead single on Bite Me: Took my sex life with me now the show aint f***in! she quips over equally bratty production. Though she started as a classic theatre girl triple threat, a pop career is her total focus now. Watching me through Miu Miu frameless glasses, she radiates a curated ease: feline face, pillowy lips, that all-natural tan that reads Australian (though shes from North Carolina). Even her teeth and eyes seem edited, luminescently white. I expected her to be extremely high energy considering the type of animated pop star she is: Renee Rapp was built for short-form content, for talk shows, a niche internet celeb story. Over the past month or so, there has been Renee Rapp is considering buying one of Queen Victorias former homes; Benson Boone and Renee Rapp beefing over backflips is the unserious drama I needed today; Renee Rapp called white gays insufferable, including herself; Renee Rapp opens up about cheating on her ex on the Call Her Daddy podcast and more, much more. But shes not high energy today. Rapp knows shes seen as a zany in-your-face person, but thats because of the meme-friendly content formats shes placed into, she says: I come across that way because I actually will just play so far into whatever vibe that Im in. The possibility that she has become an internet persona rather than a pop star has occurred to her. She has already done a whole press tour for Bite Me and I read and watched it all, including a 50-minute Zane Lowe interview about her new album, and left knowing nothing about the album. So, whats the deal? Has she become too fun to talk to? I think journalism has changed so much in that way Im sure Im preaching to the choir everything is on the internet and everything is for the internet now, she says, which in a way can make things more playful. I also think in a way its a bit stifling. How her personality is perceived was something she never thought about until recently. Now its become, Oh, shes unfiltered or controversial or is gonna say something that people will engage with online or shes a b**** or ungrateful. I dont know why. I think thats something thats worked for a couple of news outlets and now thats what everybodys drawn to in America. I dont feel that way as much here. open image in gallery Renee Rapp was built for short-form content, for talk shows ( Invision/AP ) She noticed that participating with UK radio hosts felt more like a normal exchange to promote her work, rather than an opportunity to boost someone elses profile: He doesnt want something out of the conversation that is for him, she says of one recent such radio host on this current UK trip. Ive gotten pretty good at being able to tell that in interviews. This press trend has made bigger jesters of women than men, she thinks: It is interesting that [with] every female artist that I can think about right now, the conversation is rarely about their music, its always something baity for the internet. And with me it especially has been. What has been lost, perhaps, in the clips of Rapp as jester, is her single-minded focus, which no doubt came from a childhood being raised by a medical salesman dad and an accountant mother, who now acts as her business manager. She was so much of a musical theatre prodigy that she won Best Performance by an Actress at the 10th annual Jimmy Awards in NYC, a national awards show for high school musical theatre students. The actor who presented Rapp with the award, Laura Benanti, did so with the message, I will never be as confident as that 18-year-old. While that same 18-year-old Rapp was auditioning for the Mean Girls musical, she was already fervently pursuing a pop career in New York. When she got a personal call-back for the national tour of Mean Girls by creator Tina Fey, Rapp knew being in the national tour didnt match up to her vaulting ambition, but thought, Yeah, Im gonna go sing my f***ing ass off in front of Tina. Im gonna meet this b****. I respect her. Shes one of the greatest people in comedy. She was offered the role of Regina George but turned it down. Fey was incredulous, Rapp remembers: She was like, What the f***? What is wrong with you? Youre insane. Were offering you the lead on a national tour of a show that is one of the biggest IPs in the world. Rapps logic was clear: I want to be a pop star. So Im not gonna go around the f***ing US for a year. I dont want to perform in Iowa. Whos gonna help me with my music career in Iowa? Nobody. Fey and producer Lorne Michaels, the creator of Saturday Night Live, then offered her the Broadway show so she could remain in New York and she said shed consider it with a caveat. That theyd market Rapp as a pop star and use the musical as a launch pad for her music career. I think it was probably jarring because its like, what the f*** do you have going for you that you could say no? The truth is nothing, except the confidence and assuredness in myself that I was going to f***ing do what I was going to do, Rapp remembers. Baffling or endearing, her bullishness worked. Fey and Michaels have continued to be two of her biggest cheerleaders. open image in gallery Renee Rapps Bite Me album cover ( Interscope ) The militant nature of doing the show on Broadway prepared me to do anything, she adds. Rapp has spoken in the past about having an eating disorder and mood disorder. Many of her shows have been performed in the face of those trials, including every festival that she did last year, she says: I was wickedly depressed and severely unhappy and physically sick and I still did every show. I was introduced to Rapp in early 2023 for her first London show at Kentish Town Forum. The music wasnt too memorable but she was: enormously charismatic, big belting numbers and relentless gags between songs. As far as the largely queer female audience was concerned, she was Harry Styles. She perks up at me remembering this, pleasantly surprised that I was there for that milestone moment: New pop girl is the scariest phrase to hear in the whole wide world, Im sure, for a journalist, she says, joking about the way shed inevitably been billed by her team. Youre probably just like, Oh, for f***s sake, another one. What is this gonna be? I tell her that I recall being unsure of where her sound would land, still in its amorphous initial stages of sonics and style. I felt that way too, she admits. It could have gone so many different ways and of course theres always room for it to. But she found her distinctive voice on Bite Me: caustic, arrogant, delighted, like Regina George turned up to 11. Rapp had been through a turbulent few years in her early adulthood: navigating being a proper public figure, staying in relationships that didnt serve me, legal disputes, NDAs, partying and blacking out, trying to prove herself as a pop contender. I had had it up to here, she says, jutting her hand under her neck. Im sick of yall, Im sick of yall. And Im sick of my f***ing self. I felt like I needed to strip naked, get all of my clothes off and run. And I had no idea where I was going but I knew that I was not going back. That energy, she felt, was contained by the phrase Bite Me. I wanted the album to be everything that fit that title, she continues. I wanted it to be everything thematically that was biting, bitchy, get the f*** out of my face. She throws a spider hand up in my direction dramatically. I didnt know sonically what it was going to be but I knew exactly what the attitude was. The song to shape the record was Leave Me Alone, which came a difficult six months into writing. Rapps team kept calling to ask when the next song was coming out. I was like, Get the f*** out of my face. Im trying to have fun with my life, Im trying to go out with my friends, Im in a new relationship and madly in love with my partner, I bought a f***ing house. Everyone get away from me, let me have f***ing fun. One of her songwriters, Steph Jones (a co-writer on Sabrina Carpenters Espresso), told her to just put that message into a ballsy track. I was worried about what people would say. And she was like, Right but thats how you talk as a person so why do you care? Was she worried about what her team would think, though, on the harsh receiving end of this song? No, I dont give a f*** about that. Them, I dont care about. Because she had just made a new track, exactly what theyd wanted? Once my personality started to come through the music, everybody was in. And then I was in too, she says resolutely. And since she was listening to a lot of pop-rock girl duo The Veronicas, the rest of the music either sounds like Demi Lovato-era Disney rock about being a sadistic lesbian trying to get back at her ex (Youd Like That Wouldnt You) or euphoric pop songs about being well-behaved before she fell in lust with someone (Good Girl). open image in gallery Renee Rapp with Towa Bird (left) ( Doug Peters/PA Wire ) The album is a little black book of lovers and exes, all unnamed. Did any of these people get in angrily touch with her? The songs cleverly blend details from different relationships, she says. But still: I can imagine that people would assume that my songs are fully about them. Im like, Girl, this isnt about you. This is about my album rollout. Lets be so clear. With all the love in the world, this s*** is not about you. With hand claps, with a light eye roll. A passing thought of her girlfriend, the musician Towa Bird, brings a smile to Rapps face. I would imagine dating me is kind of hard, she says, adding that dating a songwriter is hard full-stop. But wait, she realises, rising up on her chair in protest, she is also dating a songwriter. It is hard! You get songs written about you and all the intimate details of your life! Its a full-blown cabaret to have a romantic relationship safely in the public eye, Rapp admits. Theres a skill to making people think that youre giving away a lot when in reality youre giving away the smallest bit. People think they know a lot about my relationship, but in reality, myself and my girlfriend are very private people and Im really good at making it seem like were not because I will protect her in every way that I can, she says. Thats when I realise shes talking about herself too: for the past hour, Rapps been part magician, part showgirl, making a wonderful spectacle out of giving little away. Shes a bona fide professional. Of course: the show must go on. Get the latest entertainment news, reviews and star-studded interviews with our Independent Culture email Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Thomas Skinner has shared a lengthy statement addressing the controversy surrounding his appearance on Strictly Come Dancing, in which he hit out at the media for creating a hate frenzy against him. The Apprentice star made his live debut on the celebrity dancing contest on Saturday (27 September), where he danced a paso doble with professional partner Amy Dowden. The performance received a total of 12 points from the judges, including just two points from head judge Craig Revel Horwood. Skinners debut was also met with ridicule from some Strictly viewers, one of whom branded him one of the worst dancers theyd seen on the show. In his post to Instagram and X/Twitter, Skinner praised his amazing partner Dowden while claiming he had been warned before starting Strictly that the media was gonna go for me more than anyone. The hate frenzy theyve created towards me is insane, he wrote. There is hardly any truth in the majority of the articles. Now I understand why people in the public eye just say and do what theyre told because theyll get buried if they dont, just like theyre trying to do to me. I will always stand up for what is right. He continued: This onslaught of hate has all started since I got invited to meet JD Vance, the vice president of the USA. And for the record: I havent hired a bodyguard. I didnt have a three-month affair. I havent defaulted on a loan. Im not being sued by global giant Bosch for saying bosh. Skinner said that much of what had been reported about him had been massively exaggerated or written in a way to make me look bad. In fact, all Ive ever done is put into the UK economy, employ people, support local businesses, spread positivity, work bloody hard and try to make others believe in themselves by spreading love and positivity online, he said. open image in gallery Thomas Skinner with his Strictly partner Amy Dowden ( Instagram/Thomas Skinner ) He said he would continue to dance with my head held high and was honoured to be taking part in Strictly: Im gonna keep on trying my best and I dont care if people like it or not. I am proud of who I am and so grateful for all of you in my corner. Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 day New subscribers only. 9.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled. Try for free ADVERTISEMENT. If you sign up to this service we will earn commission. This revenue helps to fund journalism across The Independent. Watch Apple TV+ free for 7 day New subscribers only. 9.99/mo. after free trial. Plan auto-renews until cancelled. Try for free ADVERTISEMENT. If you sign up to this service we will earn commission. This revenue helps to fund journalism across The Independent. Skinners participation in this years series is controversial in part due to his recent socialising with Vance, for which he was pictured wearing a Maga (Make America Great Again) cap. open image in gallery Skinner met with US vice-president JD Vance when the latter visited the UK ( Thomas Skinner/X ) He also caused a stir at the Strictly Come Dancing press event at Elstree Studios when he picked up a journalists phone during press questions, and later left the event altogether. Earlier this month, he admitted to cheating on his wife weeks after their wedding, calling it a fling that took place the one time. The aftermath was a very, very dark time, he said, adding that his wife never deserved that, shes such a good person, without her I wouldnt be where I am today she made me. Skinner advised anyone who has made a mistake to be honest and own up to it, and said we are in an incredible place. Its forgotten about and weve moved on from it now. In early September, BBC director general Tim Davie defended the decision to cast Skinner in the forthcoming series, telling MPs from the Culture, Media and Sport committee that the casting team chose contestants who they believe will be interesting to the audience. Dowden has also defended him from any backlash, calling him lovely, bubbly and full of life and praising him for working so hard on his routines. The new season of Strictly Come Dancing continues next Saturday (4 October) at 6.20pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer. Get the latest entertainment news, reviews and star-studded interviews with our Independent Culture email Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Get the latest entertainment news with our free Culture newsletter Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice The Disappearance of Jay Slater, a documentary very much made in the classic true-crime format, is the moving story of what turned out to be a terrible, tragic death but one that leaves us with one unresolved question, regarding the programme itself. Namely, why did Channel 4 ever make it, when, as the show demonstrates, the disappearance of Slater has nothing to do with any crime, was so recent as to be still fresh in the mind, and is not a mystery anyway? The plain facts about Slater are just that, but the producers take their time, build the tension and raise doubts even as they are recounting them, despite knowing now that this is, really, a bit bogus. The 19-year-old apprentice bricklayer from Lancashire was on holiday in Tenerife, his first holiday on his own, albeit he had some friends with him. From old home videos and interviews with his mum, dad, brother and friends, we see just what a sweet boy he was inquisitive, maybe a little too trusting, but never seriously involved in crime. The hardest scenes to watch are those of Slaters funeral, where the emotions are raw and unfiltered. His mother, Debbie, and father, Warren, who help guide us through Slaters life and last fatal misadventure, are exceptionally brave human beings. Slater visited some nightclubs, and, being a sociable type, took the offer from two strangers in the early hours of 17 June 2024 to drive with them to their B&B some 30 miles away in Masca, a hamlet up in the high mountains of the national park. He had consumed alcohol, plus some cocaine and MDMA before his death. In the documentary, phone messages, calls, snatches of CCTV footage, social media posts, and witness evidence all examined by the Spanish and British authorities detail his whereabouts and his condition with precision. His movements in and out of various nightclubs are timed, and it is obvious that he was intoxicated. Eventually his body was found, after 29 days missing, at the bottom of a remote ravine in this harsh, rugged environment. The pathologist demonstrates, with the detachment essential to his craft, how Slaters injuries deep abrasions and scratches down own side of his body, and a massive head wound are consistent with a steep fall of some 20 to 25 metres. By the time he tumbled to his death he was exhausted, dehydrated and disoriented. There was no third-party involvement and it was instant. His death was an accident. No room for doubt; but plenty of space online for conjecture, surmise and speculation. Thus, as the documentary reminds us, during the search for Slater and for long afterwards, the armchair sleuths and the conspiracy theorists fastened onto various seeming inconsistencies or uncertainties. Singularly and in concert, they built the most offensive and distressing versions of events that their lurid imaginings and lack of forensic expertise could create. For Debbie, a grieving mother, it was hellish: I will never ever understand why social media detectives are totally destroying peoples lives, she says. Its been torture, absolute torture the YouTubers and the TikTokers have made the situation a million times worse. Some key witnesses refused to take part in the coroners court hearing because they were afraid of how theyd be treated, ie bullied and harassed online, a lasting injustice. Why do the ghouls think they have a right to persecute people? Why is everything approached as if it were a crime, indeed a conspiracy? When the conspiracists started researching Slater and found that hed been once at the scene of a machete attack, and was found guilty under our joint enterprise laws, why did they assume hed be waving a knife around in Tenerife when there is zero evidence he had? What is missing from the documentary is much sense of making the conspiracists accountable. None are confronted. The same goes for the social media companies who allow them free rein to publish nonsense, and worse. Even after the disgrace of the far-right broadcaster Alex Jones, people who refuse to accept the world as it is are still making the lives of others a misery, and endangering their own mental health. It infects politics, like a fever, as we witness with the mass online hysteria prompted by Nigel Farage claiming migrants eat swans. Why have we ended up here? That is a question this documentary begs but never tries to answer. Its much more of a challenge than the disappearance of Jay Slater, a nice lad who should be left to rest in eternal peace, but never will be. Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Stay ahead of the curve with our weekly guide to the latest trends, fashion, relationships and more Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice UK retailers say the demand for mens tailoring is back with a vengeance as workers return to the office and fashion-conscious men splash out for formal occasions. John Lewis and Marks & Spencer have noticed significant increases in the demand for suits and other formal wear over the past year, as well as a jump in male customers seeking private styling services. The resurgence follows the years impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic, prompting more men to refresh their wardrobes to attend the office or social events. Data from John Lewis showed sales of its own branded suits are currently up 68 per cent year on year, while formal outerwear is up 584 per cent year on year. Last week, the company unveiled its new premium menswear label J Lewis as part of efforts to tap into the jump in demand. open image in gallery John Lewis and Marks & Spencer have recorded significant increases in demand for suits and other formal wear ( PA ) Vikki Kavanagh, chief commercial officer at John Lewis, said: Tailoring obviously took a real backstep through Covid in everybodys wardrobes. It is now back with a vengeance and it is something that we are really investing in, particularly with menswear this season. We will be opening a new tailoring concept in Oxford Street to really meet the need, with an extended product range. She added that the retailer expects the tailoring trend to continue as male customers seek sharper looks and take advice from personal stylists. John Lewis said mens personal stylist appointments are up 23 per cent year on year. Marks & Spencer said it has also seen more engagement from male customers looking to invest in their formal wardrobes, launching a new M&S Man social channel due to the interest. open image in gallery Marks & Spencer has launched a new M&S Man social channel ( Getty/iStock ) The high street chain said it sees menswear as a major opportunity for growth and is doubling down on its ambitions by targeting new younger male customers in order to become the authority in mens fashion. M&S said it sold 37,500 suits valued at 120 in the last month, having witnessed an 18 per cent jump in suit sales over the past two years. The brand also offers suit-fitting services across 50 stores amid growth in demand for formalwear. An M&S spokeswoman said: Mens formalwear continues to be a growth category as customers look to smarten up their wardrobes for work as well as special occasions like proms and weddings. We want to help men look and feel their best, and the real opportunity lies in redefining what smart dressing means today. Versatile separates that work across office, weekend and event wear are key and our latest collection delivers with breathable fabrics, stretch innovation and modern fits that prioritise comfort, movement and style. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice For more than three decades, Marina Ramos was known only as Jane Doe. In 1989, the 28-year-old mother was found stabbed to death, her naked body discarded in the Arizona desert. With no name and no family to claim her, she was buried without identity. Years passed with no new leads or answers in the case. Then, in February 2022, a breakthrough when investigators were able to uncover her identity using updated fingerprint technology. But they were met with a shocking twist. Marina had two baby girls 14-month-old Elizabeth and 2-month-old Jasmin who went missing days after she was murdered. And they were still alive. open image in gallery In 1989, a young mother, Marina Ramos, was found stabbed to death. Decades later, her two babies, who went missing at the time, have been found alive ( Mohave County Sheriffs Office ) Mohave County Sheriffs Office Investigator Lori Miller, who never gave up on the case, began her search for the girls, never wavering on her belief that she would find them. I always believed they were alive, Miller said. And to finally find them its hard to describe the feeling. Its relief. Its joy. But theres still a shadow over everything because their mothers killer is out there. The woman with no name On December 12, 1989, Marina Ramos body was found on Old Temple Bar Road in Mohave County, about 50 miles south of Las Vegas. Before she was buried, detectives were able to obtain a DNA profile, which was entered into CODIS, the FBI database. In February 2022, Mohave County Sheriffs Office Special Investigations Unit resubmitted fingerprints from the case file to the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System. They got a hit. The prints matched a Maria Ortiz in Bakersfield, California. An investigation revealed that the woman had been arrested for shoplifting in June 1989. A records check with the Kern County Sheriffs Office and the Bakersfield Police Department showed that Ortiz had listed an address in Bakersfield along with the name of two friends. open image in gallery Marina Ramos body was found on Old Temple Bar Road in Mohave County in 1989 ( Mohave County Sheriffs Office ) When investigators contacted the friends of the woman, one of them said they did not know anyone by the name of Maria Ortiz -- but that she had a cousin, Marina Ramos, who had been missing since 1989. Maria Ortiz was an alias used by Marina Ramos -- who also had two daughters, Elizabeth and Jasmin Ramos. Investigators spoke to Marinas cousin Esther, who cared for the children in August 1989 while Marina was in jail for shoplifting, according to National Center for Missing & Exploited Children. When Marina was released, she picked the girls up from Esthers house, and with her was a man known only as Fernando. Marina told her cousin they were going to Ontario, California to start a new life. Four months later, her body was discovered in the desert. Her children and Fernando were nowhere to be found. Since she was identified in 2022, law enforcement have issued press releases, shared social media posts and age-progressed images hoping to find the missing girls. Investigators worked with Ramos family, who provided DNA to search multiple genealogy databases. open image in gallery ( National Center for Missing & Exploited Children ) This August, one analysis found a high probability of a match between a woman and Ramos. Miller was able to track down the woman and her sister, who are now known as Tina and Melissa. The women, in their 30s, submitted DNA samples and those confirmed that they were Elizabeth and Jasmin Ramos. The sisters told the investigator that when they were teenagers, they had been told they were adopted. But they never knew that they had been missing children, or that their mother was murdered. The babies who disappeared Two days after their mothers body had been found in Arizona, the baby girls were found 150 miles away, abandoned at a park in Oxnard, California. According to a police report from the time, a passerby heard the children crying and found them lying on the wet floor of a public bathroom. They were taken to a local police station and placed in the custody of Child Protective Services before eventually being adopted by a couple in Ventura County. The sisters grew up together in a loving home, unaware that they were ever missing, they said. But Tina, who was born Jasmin, told ABC15 she had always wondered about her biological family. She was the one who uploaded her DNA years ago without knowing the family she was searching for. open image in gallery Two days after their mothers body had been found in Arizona, the baby girls were found 150 miles away, abandoned at a park in Oxnard, California. They were later adopted ( Mohave County Sheriffs Office ) This is what Ive been searching for and wanting for a very, very long time, to figure out where I came from and who my family was, she said. I was sad to know that my mom is gone, and I will never be able to see her, she added, her voice breaking. It still hits me a little bit because she was taken from me, you know, and, like, thats not right. But at the same time, I was happy to know that shes not suffering. Shes not in a bad situation. I was happy to know that all those abandonment issues that I dealt with when I was a kid was, like, automatically released for me. Both Tina and Melissa, who have families of their own, are still processing the news. I want everyone to know that Im okay, Melissa said. Ive lived a beautiful life, and I have a wonderful husband. But there are questions I still have, and feelings Im still discovering. The sisters are slowly connecting with extended family. It felt good to know that I did have family out there that cared for me and had been looking for me even though I didnt know this, Tina said. Melissa told ABC15 she hopes this will mark a new chapter for their family and that now theyve been found, she hopes investigators can focus on other missing person cases. May the search continue for the next missing person, and hopefully they find some more success stories, she said. Search for a killer As the sisters continue to piece together their past, the search for their mothers killer is just beginning. Investigators believe there are three suspects, who were allegedly seen with the children at that time, who are connected with Ramos death. A witness who was in the park that day recalled seeing a woman in a long red skirt and white boots, accompanied by two men, carrying the babies. They actually had a witness come forward and say she saw a female Hispanic, about five feet tall, and two male Hispanics get out of a black mini pickup somewhere in the neighborhood alongside the park, and saw them in the park, Miller said. The FBIs Phoenix field office, the Arizona Department of Public Safety, and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children are continuing their investigation. Miller urged anyone with information to call the Mohave County Sheriffs Office at 928-753-0753 ext. 4408. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A Houston-based traveling veterinarian is accused of grooming a 15-year-old girl he hired at his practice and sexually abusing her while taking her along on trips for work. Now, the Marion County Sheriffs Office says the recent arrest of 52-year-old Gregory Ford in Florida may be connected to other victims across the country. In August, the teens mother filed a report with the Lauderdale County Sheriffs Department in Alabama, alleging her daughter had been in a sexual relationship with Ford after starting work at his veterinary practice, ABC13 reported. She told deputies that she discovered sexually explicit messages between her daughter and Ford on the teens cell phone, which included conversations about plans to have sex. open image in gallery Gregory Ford is in custody in Marion County, Florida, and accused of sexually abusing a teenage girl. ( Marion County Sheriffs Office ) After the report was filed, Ford allegedly tried to intimidate the family into dropping the case, ABC13 reported. He allegedly sent the teens mother a message that read: If you choose to continue your crusade, I have already paid a dear friend from the CIA to long rifle a bullet in your chest. That same day, investigators said Ford left a voicemail for the teen, telling her: I dated, I married, and I never knew true love, and how special a heart could be until I met yours. When the teen was interviewed by investigators, she allegedly admitted she and Ford had sex three or four times and exchanged nude images. The photos were sent while she was in Alabama and Ford was working in other states, according to an arrest affidavit. Ford was arrested on September 23 and remains in jail without bond, according to online jail records. Investigators believe there may be additional victims due to Fords work travel. He specializes in performance horse care, and while his business is based in Houston, investigators said he travels frequently to shows, races, and private calls across several states, including Georgia, Tennessee, Florida, Texas, Missouri, Alabama and Mississippi. Anyone with information about the case is urged to contact the Marion County Sheriffs Office. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A Sunday worship service turned into a scene of horror when a gunman rammed his vehicle into a Mormon church in Michigan before opening fire on congregants and setting the building on fire, killing four people and injuring at least eight others. Thomas Jacob Sanford, 40, was identified as the suspect, police said during a press conference on Sunday evening. The attack unfolded around 10:25 a.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc Township, about 50 miles north of Detroit, according to police. Hundreds of people, including children, were inside at the time of the shooting. After the suspect smashed his pickup truck with two American flags affixed to the bed through the front doors of the church, Sanford emerged with an assault rifle and began firing on worshippers, Grand Blanc Township Police Chief William Renye said. His reign of terror continued as he intentionally set a fire that turned into a massive blaze, police said. It was brought under control just before 1 p.m. As the suspect fled the church, he exchanged gunfire with two officers and was killed. The police chief said they believe they will find more victims when its safe to search the building. We do believe that there were people up there that were near that fire and they were unable to get out of the church, Renye said. So, we do believe we will find additional victims once were able to search that, once there are no signs of a fire reigniting. The gunman was deployed to Fallujah in 2007 open image in gallery Thomas Sanford enlisted in the Marines in 2004, upon graduating from Goodrich High School. After serving in Okinawa, Sanford was deployed to Fallujah in Iraq in 2007 ( Facebook ) Thomas Sanford enlisted in the Marines in 2004, upon graduating from Goodrich High School. After serving in Okinawa, Sanford was deployed to Fallujah, Iraq, in 2007. At the time, his father told local outlet Clarkston News of his pride in his son. Hes a homegrown kid who misses his family when hes gone. Jakes going voluntarily and plans on returning to this community when his service is over. We are very proud of him. The same article mentioned that his grandfather was a World War II veteran and that his uncle also served in the Marines. He left the Marines in 2008 with the rank of sergeant. During his time in the military, he was awarded the Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal. He last served in the 2nd Maintenance Battalion in Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. Sanford specialized in repairing and maintaining military vehicles. His military career was described as stellar, according to the Detroit Free Press. Sanford went to work as a truck driver, at one point driving a tow truck and another driving a Coca-Cola delivery truck. His son was born with a rare medical condition named hyperinsulinism open image in gallery Thomas Jacob Sanford, 40, shown wearing a Donald Trump t-shirt bearing the slogan Make Liberals Cry Again ( Facebook ) Sanfords son, Brantlee, was born with a rare medical condition where the pancreas produces too much insulin, known as hyperinsulinism. The condition leads to brain complications. He told a medical news outlet, Check Up Newsroom, in 2016: We found out Brantlee was having problems shortly after his birth. It was a nightmare for us. We were slowly realizing that Brantlee wasnt a typical premature baby. My sister had sent me a newsletter from a childrens hospital in Texas called Cook Childrens. I emailed the writer of this article on congenital hyperinsulinism while waiting for a miracle to happen, he added. From there, the family set up a GoFundMe page and were able to travel to the Lone Star state so that Brantlee could begin his treatment. He has been pictured wearing a Donald Trump Make Liberals Cry Again t-shirt A photo of Sanford that has gon viral in the wake of the shooting shows him wearing a Donald Trump t-shirt bearing the slogan, Make Liberals Cry Again. A 2020 Washington Post opinion piece said that phrase had now been adopted as the battle hymn of Republicans under Trumps leadership. Public records indicate that Sanford was not registered with either of the major political parties. The Daily Beast reports that a Trump sign could be seen outside of his home as federal law enforcement conducted searches in the wake of the shooting. Democratic activist Mark Grebner told local outlet Bridge Michigan that Sanford signed two political petitions, one to repeal Gov. Gretchen Whitmers COVID mandates and one to outlaw abortion in the state. open image in gallery Fire and law enforcement officers stand outside the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Sunday In an initial post on his Truth Social social network, the president wrote, This appears to be yet another targeted attack on Christians in the United States of America. THIS EPIDEMIC OF VIOLENCE IN OUR COUNTRY MUST END, IMMEDIATELY! Photos on social media show him to have been an active outdoorsman who often went hunting. A high school friend of Sanfords, Ryan Lopez, told The New York Times that he just saw the gunman in a gym a few weeks previously. He was happy to see me, he just seemed normal. Lopez described Sanford as a regular country kid. Another neighbor told the newspaper that Sanford would regularly plow driveways in the community for free. Something must have happened, snapped somehow, the neighbor said. Sanfords connection to the church remains unknown Sanford is from Burton, Michigan, Renye said. His name was released by the police on Sunday evening. The truck he drove into the church was covered with American flags, one witness told the Detroit Free Press. Renye said he used an assault rifle in the attack, and that police believe there is only one person involved. We believe we have the guy who did this, Renye said. open image in gallery An FBI Evidence Response Team agent inspects the suspect's truck outside the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in Grand Blanc, Michigan ( AFP/Getty ) Authorities executed a search warrant at his home and are reviewing his phone records as they work to determine a motive. The FBI has assigned 100 agents to the case to help interview witnesses. As you can imagine, theres a lot of witnesses that were within the church and that is a lot of witness information statements that we have to obtain, Renye said. Its unclear at this point what connection, if any, the shooter had to the church. Sanford does not have a criminal record, according to online court records, reported The Detroit Free Press. Investigators say that an accelerant, possibly gasoline, was used to set fire to the church and that suspected explosive devices were also found at the scene. Who are the victims? Four people are dead and at least eight others were injured, though authorities said that the death toll could rise as investigators complete their search of the building. Their names have not been released. Seven people are in stable condition and one person is in critical condition, Renye said at the press conference. open image in gallery People embrace near the scene of a shooting at a church in Grand Blanc, Michigan, on September 28 ( AFP via Getty Images ) In an update posted to Facebook Sunday afternoon, Renye said one of the nine being treated at the hospital had died from gunshot wounds. Renye said at a Sunday night press conference that the bodies of two additional victims had been found inside the church by investigators. The entire church had not been cleared on Sunday night. The police chief said that two of the four victims had been shot and that some people remained unaccounted for, but he was not sure how many. Phillip Cotter, who was a member of the church, teared up as he spoke to the Detroit Free Press. He did not attend services this morning. I know everyone who was there, he said. I don't know what God has planned for us, but I trust him. Evil is alive, it's active. People are too casual to throw out terms that inflame others, weak minds. Some nurses from nearby Henry Ford Hospital, who were currently on strike, abandoned their picket line and rushed to the church to aid victims. Human lives matter more than our labor dispute, Teamsters Local 332 President Dan Glass said. A tragic act of violence In a statement, Mormon church leaders called the incident a tragic act of violence and urged members to cooperate with investigators. A tragic act of violence occurred today at a chapel of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc, Michigan. During Sunday worship services a gunman opened fire, and early reports indicate that multiple individuals were injured. We ask for cooperation with local authorities as details become available. The Church is in communication with local law enforcement as the investigation continues and as we receive updates on the condition of those affected. We offer thanks to the emergency responders who are assisting victims and families. We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of prayers and concern from so many people around the world. In moments of sorrow and uncertainty, we find strength and comfort through our faith in Jesus Christ. Places of worship are meant to be sanctuaries of peacemaking, prayer and connection. We pray for peace and healing for all involved. open image in gallery After fleeing the building, the suspect exchanged gunfire with two officers and was killed ( Getty Images ) The shooting occurred less than 24 hours after the death of Russell M. Nelson, the churchs president and prophet, who passed away Saturday at age 101. According to church protocol, Dallin H. Oaks is expected to become the next president of the faith. Texas Governor Greg Abbott announced plans to create a task force to protect places of worship in the wake of the shooting. The escalation of violent attacks against people and places of faith is heinous and must end, Abbott wrote on X. I have directed the Texas Dept. of Public Safety to form task forces with federal and local law enforcement to better safeguard our places of worship. The fundamental principle that thou shall not kill must be strongly reaffirmed as a core tenet of our society and must be aggressively enforced by law enforcement. A deadly pattern Sundays shooting marked at least the 324th mass shooting in the United States this year, according to the Gun Violence Archive. It came just hours after another gunman opened fire at a waterfront bar in Southport, North Carolina, killing three and injuring at least eight. Nigel Edge, 40, was arrested and charged with three counts of first-degree murder, five counts of attempted first-degree murder and five counts of assault with a deadly weapon, Southport Police Chief Todd Coring said. open image in gallery Sundays shooting marked at least the 324th mass shooting in the United States this year ( AP ) Places of worship have increasingly become targets of mass violence. On August 27, a shooter in Minneapolis killed two children and wounded 14 others when he fired into a church. Robert Westman, 23, dressed all in black and armed with a rifle, a shotgun and a pistol, fired through the stained-glass windows of a church adjacent to the Annunciation Catholic School as children and teachers gathered for the first Mass of the school year. The victims were later identified by their families as 8-year-old Fletcher Merkel and 10-year-old Harper Moyski. The suspect died by a self-inflicted gunshot as law enforcement rushed to the scene. And on September 19, Blake Richard Hoover was charged with arson after allegedly setting fire to the Chabad of Charlotte County in Punta Gorda, Florida, just days before Rosh Hashanah, in what police described as a hate crime. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice An Indiana mother has been arrested after police say she gave her 16-year-old daughter and a friend a bottle of vodka and left them in charge of a one-year-old child, who was later found wandering the streets alone. Ashley Ellis, 42, was taken into custody last week and charged with two counts of neglect of a dependent and two counts of contributing to the delinquency of a minor, according to court records obtained by Law & Crime. The baby, who was wearing a urine-soaked diaper, was found in the middle of an Evansville street around 5 a.m. on July 5, crying mommy, mommy, local outlet WEVV reported. The neighbor brought the child inside, changed her, and called 911. Police launched a search for the babys parents, but instead found Ellis 16-year-old daughter and her 15-year-old friend inside the home. Shortly after police arrived, the 16-year-old suffered what appeared to be a seizure and was rushed to a hospital. open image in gallery Ashley Ellis, 42, was taken into custody on Thursday as police accused her of child neglect. ( Vanderburgh County Jail ) In a police interview, the 15-year-old said Ellis gave both teens a bottle of vodka before leaving at about 1:30 a.m. that morning. She claimed they each took about three shots. The friend added she did not realize there was a child in the home until around 2:30 a.m., when the one-year-old began crying. By 4:40 a.m., both teens were vomiting, and she believed thats when the baby managed to go outside. The teen estimated the child had been alone in the street for about 30 minutes. Police tried repeatedly to contact Ellis but could not reach her for two days. When she eventually spoke with investigators, Ellis allegedly said she only planned to be gone for a few hours but panicked when she learned what happened, according to WFIE, who also reported that Ellis refused to take a drug test. During the interview, Ellis never said she gave the teens vodka, but did say that there was a bottle in the freezer that they had been asking to drink. She was booked into the Vanderburgh County Jail on Thursday. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice Three people were killed and at least five others were injured when a gunman on a boat opened fire on patrons at a waterfront bar in a coastal North Carolina town in what police say was a highly premeditated attack. Nigel Edge, 40, was arrested and charged with three counts of first-degree murder, five counts of attempted first-degree murder and five counts of assault with a deadly weapon, Southport Police Chief Todd Coring said at a Sunday press conference. The shooting, which erupted about 9:30 p.m. Saturday, took place along a popular stretch of bars and restaurants in the historic port town about 30 miles south of Wilmington. Investigators said the suspect was traveling by boat along the Cape Fear River around 9:30 p.m. Saturday, when he paused briefly in front of the waterfront establishment American Fish Company, and began shooting. The gunman then fled along the Intracoastal Waterway toward Oak Island. Roughly half an hour later, a U.S. Coast Guard crew spotted a person matching the suspects description pulling a boat from the water at a public ramp on Oak Island. The person was detained and turned over to Southport police for questioning, officials said. Edge is being held at the Brunswick County Detention Center with no bond and is set to be in court on Monday. Authorities have not given additional details about the attack, only that it was premeditated and that the restaurant was a targeted location. open image in gallery Nigel Edge faces charges in the shooting at American Fish Company in Southport on Saturday night. Three people were killed when he opened fire from a boat, cops say. ( Brunswick County Sheriff's Office ) The victims killed in the shooting have not been publicly identified. Local district attorney Jon David said that among the five people hospitalized, at least one is now clinging for their life. Some of the victims were vacationers, he added. Evil has come ashore in Southport, North Carolina, David said. Ironically enough, at the very place which once served as a backdrop to the movie Safe Haven, he added, referring to the 2013 movie. Oak Island Police Chief Charlie Morris said the suspect was known to police as someone who frequently hung out on our pier, and that he had filed lawsuits against the town and police department over the last few years, according to the Associated Press. The district attorney said Edge had had minor contacts with police in the past but nothing significant in his past which would give us any indication that he was capable of such horror. The incident initially drew an active shooter response, with the city urging residents to stay inside and report suspicious activity. open image in gallery A motive for the deadly shooting has not been released. ( WECT ) Investigators from multiple agencies including the State Bureau of Investigation and the Coast Guard remained on the water and at the scene Sunday to collect evidence and interviewing witnesses. The police chief said there is no longer a threat to the public. Coring called it a very tragic night for the tight-knit coastal community. Southport is located near the mouth of the Cape Fear River, about 30 miles south of Wilmington. Were a small community, one of the communities where everybody knows everybody, the chief said. Its just a very tragic night. The latest headlines from our reporters across the US sent straight to your inbox each weekday Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Your briefing on the latest headlines from across the US Email * SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our Privacy notice A Scottish woman who moved to Los Angeles to follow her dream of becoming a defense attorney was killed and dismembered, allegedly by her American husband, who told prosecutors they argued about her failure to lose weight following her pregnancy, according to disturbing new details. June Bunyan, 37, had recently moved from Scotlands Isle of Arran to the US to continue her legal career and to be with her husband, Jonathan Renteria, 25, with whom she shared a 1-month-old daughter. But earlier this month, Los Angeles police discovered her dismembered remains inside the couples Los Feliz apartment after Renteria confessed to the killing in a suicide note, court filings show. He allegedly admitted strangling Bunyan after their fight and admits to putting the victim in a rear naked chokehold and killing her, prosecutors said. open image in gallery June Bunyan, 37, was found dead in her California home on September 11. Her husband has been arrested ( GoFundMe ) On September 11, deputies in Ventura County were called to a Newbury Park motel where Renteria was found in a bathtub with self-inflicted wrist injuries and a note, authorities said. That same day, Los Angeles police were alerted and forced their way into the couples apartment, where they were immediately met with the smell of decomposing flesh, the Los Angeles Times reported. Bunyans body was found in the kitchen. A trash bag containing her arms and legs was found in the bathroom. Its believed that Bunyan, who was last seen alive on September 4, had been dead in the house for more than a week, authorities said. Renteria was booked on suspicion of murder and later charged with mutilation, disinterment, and sexual contact with human remains. He is in custody at the Twin Towers Correctional Facility in Los Angeles on $4 million bail. His next court date is scheduled for November 18. Court records obtained by ABC7 revealed the couple had been married for about a year and recently welcomed their baby girl. Details of the childs whereabouts are unclear, but neighbors have since told KTLA that detectives notified them that she is safe. A troubled relationship Before being brutally murdered earlier this month, Bunyan had confided in one of her neighbors that she was deeply unhappy in her marriage and was preparing to leave Renteria. She was trying to leave, and thats when he killed her, Arielle Miller said. Miller described watching investigators remove Bunyans remains: I saw her being carried out in multiple body bags. The first body bag that came down I said thats not all of her. And then came another bag and thats when I knew that she was not in one piece. Miller explained that Bunyan had met Renteria on Twitter and moved to Los Angeles soon after. During Bunyans pregnancy, Renteria had allegedly made a comment implying she would no longer be his muscle mama because of the weight she would possibly gain, the neighbor said, recalling a previous conversation with Bunyan. This was not the first time signs of trouble in the marriage had emerged. NBC4 obtained court filings showing that in December 2023, Bunyan sought a restraining order against Renteria, accusing him of verbal abuse, threats regarding her immigration status, and comments wishing her dead. She wrote that he had made derogatory comments about my appearance and threatened to ruin her life. open image in gallery June Bunyan, 37, was killed in LA earlier this month ( (Alamy/PA) ) But weeks later, Bunyan failed to appear at a scheduled hearing, and the restraining order request was dismissed. In his own filing, Renteria said Bunyan no longer wished to pursue the order and included screenshots of affectionate messages she had sent him. A life cut short Family and friends said Bunyan had worked tirelessly to achieve her dream. She held multiple degrees, including a law degree from Robert Gordon University in Aberdeen, before moving to the United States. A website believed to be Bunyans paralegal business, according to ABC7, states that she was a foreign-educated attorney who aimed to help lawyers protect non-citizen clients in cases at the intersection of criminal and immigration law. June was known for her vibrant personality, infectious laugh, and deeply compassionate heart, her loved ones wrote on a GoFundMe page. The campaign was created to help return her remains to Scotland. She worked tirelessly to build herself a better life. Junes life was cut short so far from home, and we are now faced with the heartbreaking task of bringing her back to the UK. Her neighbors echoed the loss. She didnt deserve the way that she was disrespected, Miller said. She deserves dignity in death. A London court on Friday threw out a terror-related charge against a member of the controversial Irish rap group Kneecap, basing its decision on a technical error in the way the charge was brought forward. Liam Og O hAnnaidh, who is also referred to by his anglicised name Liam OHanna and performs under the name Mo Chara, was charged after waving a flag of the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah, which is banned in Britain as a terrorist organisation, during a London concert last year. Mo Chara (right) with Kneecap bandmates DJ Provai (left) and Moglai Bap outside court in London on Friday. Credit: AP Chief magistrate Paul Goldspring, sitting at Woolwich Crown Court, said the case should be thrown out, agreeing with OHannas lawyers that the prosecutors had missed the deadline for the charge by a day. These proceedings were instituted unlawfully and are null, he said. Spotted: A late night end-of-season catch-up after what could only be described as a suboptimal year: businessman and ex-Carlton president Luke Sayers dining with Carlton coach Michael Voss. The venue was South Yarra restaurant France Soir, where midway through the evening, the genteel Toorak families vacate the narrow French enclave to leave the place clear for flashy late night bling. Carlton coach Michael Voss and Luke Sayers in 2023, when the latter was Blues president. Credit: AFL Photos Late on Thursday, the two old mates chowed down at a table opposite the bar. Dinner segueing into drinks next door at the trendy Le Splendide, which has a no-photos rule enforced by staff who put stickers over mobile phone cameras. Its fair to say 2025 wont be fondly remembered by either man. Carlton slipped to 11th on the ladder and missed the finals but after a wobble Vosss coaching gig was declared safe for 2026. Its the $12 million estate at the centre of a legal tussle. A Sydney man died in 2020 and was survived by his four children from his 58-year marriage. But, in a twist this year, a woman emerged who says she is also his biological child. Her birth certificate pre-dates the mans marriage, the NSW Supreme Court has heard. A woman, who claims to be the daughter of a Sydney man who died in 2020, is seeking a share of his multimillion-dollar estate in the NSW Supreme Court. Credit: Marija Ercegovac She filed proceedings this year against the administrator of the estate, seeking a share of his millions. Both parties attended a mediation in July in a bid to resolve the dispute out of court. They reached a settlement, but it was subject to the consent of the mans beneficiaries. His three daughters from his marriage supported the settlement, but the couples only son did not. XC was allegedly provided with a Nokia mobile phone for the sole purpose of arranging unsupervised one-on-one processing sessions with Dyers, and one of five women would send her the details of the appointments, which would be described as a session with Blyth McLachlan. But McLachlan did not conduct the sessions. She was among the women that XC sued. Arriving at Kenjas Mary Street premises, XC was allegedly instructed to shower and dress in a disguise that consisted of a black bob-style wig, brown leather pants and a white top that she wore over her own clothes. Blyth McLachlan (left) at a fundraising barbecue for Kenja. She would then tell whichever woman was on reception that she was ready for her session with Dyers, and one of the other women would take her through the fire stairwell to the part of the building where his office was located, so she would not come into contact with other Kenja members, the statement of claim alleged. Her phone was switched off, or she was allegedly asked to leave it at the Kenja premises. One of the women would then check the elevator was clear before she was taken down to the basement, asked to lie on the back seat of a car, covered with a blanket and driven to an apartment on Riley Street. The statement of claim alleged that Dyers, then in his early 80s, would be waiting for her in the bedroom. She would be asked to brush her teeth and remove her clothes, and they would meditate for 15 minutes before he sexually assaulted her. He once used a pool noodle. The details of the other assaults are too graphic for publication. Sometimes he would ask her to imagine she was having group sex or being gang-raped. The meditation sessions were explained by Ken in terms of being for the Plaintiffs benefit, that if she meditated through it, it would not happen in real life, and she would clear the negative energy, the statement of claim said. After the session, according to XCs claim, the woman who had driven XC to the apartment would be waiting in the lounge area, and a hot meal would be regularly waiting for XC on the dining table. She ate the meal opposite Dyers at the table, while he engaged in conversation with the driver and anybody else present. The disguise and car routine was then performed in reverse when she was returned to Kenja. On at least one occasion, Dyers asked XC to take a pregnancy test, which was allegedly sourced by McLachlan, who also showed her how to use it. The test was negative, and XC alleged in her statement of claim that she showed it to Dyers, McLachlan and other members of Kenja in the lounge room. About a month before Dyers took his life, he allegedly took Viagra before sexually assaulting XC in the apartment, causing her to scream in pain. He eventually stopped due to her screaming and shouted at her for making him stop. She was 14 years old. Some years later, XC alleged that she asked Kenja co-founder and Dyers widow, Jan Hamilton, during a conversation about sex if she knew what Dyers had done to her. Janice Hamilton replied to the effect that she did know and the purpose of the Plaintiffs sexual experience with Ken were intended to release her negative energy so she would be focused at school. She was afterwards allegedly asked to sign a false statement to the effect that she had not been abused or assaulted by Dyers. She claimed that at the time of signing it, she had been verbally abused by Hamilton and the fifth defendant, Karli Stevenson, and was required as a member of Kenja to be obedient to them. Ken Dyers and Jan Hamilton, the controversial co-founders of Kenja Communication. Credit: One of the other defendants was Wendy Tinkler, who Dyers used as his alibi during the 1999 trial for sexually assaulting a 13-year-old girl. Dyers tendered evidence that he had been in a processing session with Tinker at the time he was alleged to have assaulted the girl. He was convicted, but the High Court quashed his conviction in 2002 and ordered a retrial on the grounds that the trial judge should not have suggested to jury members that they could infer from the fact that his legal team did not call Tinkler as a witness that her evidence would not have helped this case. The Director of Public Prosecutions declined to run a new trial after weighing up the expense, the time elapsed since the events, his age and the fact that it would have been his third trial after the first resulted in a hung jury. Loading Dyers was arrested again in 2005, the same year that XC alleged he began abusing her. The NSW Supreme Court heard last month that the complainants legal team planned to call upon or use evidence given at other proceedings by nine women who claimed they had been abused by Dyers when they were girls, to demonstrate his tendency to have sex with female children. This included women whose allegations had resulted in 22 charges that were yet to be tried when he took his own life. Kenja is the only organisation in Australia that has not signed up to the national redress scheme that allows victims to get compensation, an apology and counselling for historical child abuse, and which flowed from the 2013 royal commission into institutional responses. Hamilton has said that Kenja did not need to join the scheme because no sexual abuse occurred. But several women have claimed over the years that other adults in Kenja were complicit in their sexual abuse. Former Kenja member Michelle Ring, who was also abused by Dyers as a child, told a senate committee in 2021 that other adults in the group were aware of what was happening to her and that Hamilton gave her antiseptic lollies after each session to prevent her getting infections in her mouth. Another victim, Alison DeCamp, said in a police statement, which was later tendered in civil proceedings, that another adult had been in the room when Dyers sexually assaulted her when she was 12 years old. Sheep grazier Donna Winter-Irving believes native grey box gum trees have an image problem. With their muted grey and green tones and gangly limbs, Winter-Irving says the species natural beauty is not immediately obvious at first glance. But the long-time farmer loves the swirling and intricate patterns on grey box bark and the generous canopy the trees cast against the sun. Jim and Donna Winter-Irving among the grey box gums. Credit: Jason South Many people see them as fire wood, she said. But every tree is individual. Theyre majestic. The bark is beautiful. On her property at Nagambie, about 90 minutes north of Melbourne, Winter-Irving has planted hundreds of grey box and yellow box gum trees to help reintroduce more of the native species into the landscape. She and her husband, Jim, have also planted wattle varieties to provide mid-storey habitat for birds. At one six-hectare site alone, the couple have planted 350 native trees. Trevor Cobbold, from the group Save Our Schools, which campaigns for education equity, believed more select-entry schools would be the wrong move for Victoria. We certainly should not emulate NSW with more selective schools, Cobbold said. Academic research shows no significant benefits for students attending selective schools after adjusting for socioeconomic background. More selective schools would exacerbate social segregation in the public system and increase the already high concentration of low-income and other disadvantaged students in some schools which lowers student results. Australia already has one of the most segregated school systems in the OECD because of generous government funding that provides private schools with a major resource advantage over public schools. Lets not make it worse by creating more selective schools, Cobbold said. Deakin University associate professor Emma Rowe said increasing select-entry schools would be a policy mistake, citing a wealth of research finding the existing system did little or nothing to improve educational outcomes for disadvantaged children. Select-entry schools typically only enrol high SES [socioeconomic status] students, the vast majority represent advantaged backgrounds and families, Rowe said. The process disadvantages students from low SES backgrounds and they do not enrol any Indigenous students. Loading They should have a quota, they should have to enrol a certain proportion of students from disadvantaged backgrounds. Researcher David McCloskey, from the Australian Population Research Institute, published the report last Monday, which showed NSW was bucking a national trend of under-representation of children from government schools at university and in highly skilled professions, such as medicine. In response, he urged governments around the country to expand their numbers of select-entry schools. The disparity in the number of select-entry schools between Victoria and NSW can be traced back to their 19th century colonial past, according to Sydney University professor Helen Proctor, an expert on the historical roots of the modern education system. NSW really led the way in setting up a [select-entry] school system which included primary and secondary schools, she said. In Victoria, there were proposals and plans to do the same thing, but a coalition of private, church and corporate schools blocked it because at that time, private schools had a bit of a monopoly on post-elementary education. Proctor said that select-entry schools set up in NSW, such as Fort Street High (established in 1849), Sydney Boys High and Sydney Girls High, grew in prestige and influence over the decades, laying the foundations for widespread select-entry schools in the state. The system has endured, with support at various times from both sides of politics. Loading Victorias first select-entry school, Melbourne High, opened in 1906, with Mac.Robertson splitting off in the 1930s. It was 80 years before more government-run select-entry high schools, Nossal High and Suzanne Corry, opened in 2010 and 2011, respectively. The Victorian government allocated money in its budget this year to the planning of a new maths and science school in Melbournes north-west, which will be select-entry, but there is no other indication that it intends to expand select-entry education. Melbourne High School student William Ao started this year and was excited about the opportunity to join the range of activities available at the school. Hes already involved in robotics, Air Force cadets, debating and the railway interest group. Everybody is trying their best to do well, the 15-year-old explained. Its like a friendly competition that you wont really find at other schools, and its really something that you can only get with like-minded individuals in the same environment. Since he was in primary school, he wanted to attend Melbourne High and knew, for his family, a private school wasnt in the budget. He wanted to see more selective schools opened in the state, so people of all backgrounds could benefit. Melbourne is growing and Victoria is growing and theres more than just 1200 talented students in the state who deserve to go to one of these schools, the teenager said. NSW moved in 2022 to tackle inequity in their select-entry schools by introducing a quota of 20 per cent of places for students from disadvantaged backgrounds. The Victorian government said up to 10 per cent of places in its selective schools are open to equity-entry students, whose families hold a healthcare or pension concession, qualify for income support or are Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander. But only 3 per cent of students enrolled in the four select-entry government schools last year were from low socioeconomic backgrounds. A spokesperson said provisions outside select-entry were in place to support high-ability students in the government school system. Our priority is and has always been that every child, no matter their postcode, has access to a world-class education in a Victorian government school, the spokesperson said. Former ambassador to the US Kim Beazley has called for the AUKUS deal to be beefed up with a new pact on critical minerals, which have emerged as a selling point to solidify the Trump administrations support for the submarine deal ahead of Prime Minister Anthony Albaneses visit to Washington next month. Beazley, also a former defence minister and opposition leader, said Australia had a unique chance to leverage its supply of rare earths to feed American demand as the US searched for supply chains which do not involve China. Former ambassador, defence minister and opposition leader Kim Beazley. Credit: Pat Scala Minerals are vital components of radar and laser systems used in modern military technology such as fighter jets, submarines and drones. Beazley urged Albanese to create a third pillar of AUKUS, on top of strategic co-operation and a deal on nuclear submarines, that would involve Australia paying for the processing of rare earths to be used in US defence. Critical minerals are the ball game for the Chinese, and it is also the main ball game for countering China, Beazley said in an interview with this masthead. Department of Treasury and Finance briefing notes raised the option of Land Forces being cancelled. Given the costs and risks associated with this event, [the budget and finance portfolio analysis team] would like to further understand the costs and implications of cancelling the event, DTF staff wrote in an email on August 14, 2024. August 14, 2024, briefing notes written by DTFs budget and finance portfolio analysis (PA) team for a meeting chaired by the Department of Jobs, Skills, Industry and Regions (DJSIR). Credit: DTF DTF went on to say the unfunded liability relating to policing costs had only recently been brought to its attention. Per the agreement between the Victorian government and AMDA, the state is responsible for the provision of police and emergency services outside of [the Convention and Exhibition Centre]. Documents prepared by [the jobs department] in late 2022 indicated that the event would be underwritten by AMDA and this unfunded liability was only recently brought to DTFs attention. Treasury had also floated the idea of cancelling in late July. The Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Trust (MCET) has the ability to cancel the event under its contract with AMDA on the grounds of public safety or where directed to do so by the Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events [Steve Dimopoulos]. Tim Pallas office agreed the Commonwealth or AMDA could contribute. Credit: DTF Pallas said at the time that Victoria Police would receive a $10 million to $15 million boost to manage the protests, with early estimates of 850 regional officers requiring hotels, as well as overtime and meals for thousands of police shifts. The documents detail the pressure on Treasury staff regarding the most time sensitive and high-priority matter to deal with. The state tried to recover the missing costs from the Commonwealth and Defence, and looked at repurposing existing jobs and industry department funds to plug the $14 million to $16 million hole. Treasury was keen for AMDA to meet more of the costs, warning that whatever they landed on would set a precedent for funding the 2026 event. The documents suggest the gap was ultimately funded by the Department of Jobs, Skills, Industry and Regions. The Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Trust was also down about $1.3 million for security and compensation for the Lume digital art gallery and Skyline Melbourne Ferris Wheel, the emails show. Treasury also looked at covering the centres costs. The full cost to Victoria Police, and the overall cost to the state, is still unclear. A government spokesman said it was not unusual for departments to look at all options for high-cost events. The Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre could cancel Land Forces on public safety grounds, or where directed to by the relevant minister, DTF said on July 30, 2024. Credit: DTF The email chains were released under freedom-of-information laws in the weeks after Land Forces announced Perth would host next years expo, despite Melbourne having previously held that contract. They were released more than a year after The Age lodged its information request, 12 times longer than the statutory timeframe under the FOI Act. A Victoria Police spokeswoman said the force took its intelligence on the protests to the government in June last year. The police response was 24/7, lasted for a total of 10 days and required thousands of police shifts to maintain community safety around the Land Forces event, she said. The cost of the public order policing was necessary given the incidents that played out across the three days. Police out in force during the Land Forces expo protests. Credit: Eddie Jim An AMDA spokeswoman said Land Forces advanced Australias national interest, and that organisers had worked closely with the government, police and security agencies. Public safety was a top priority, and AMDA acknowledges and thanks Victoria Police for its professional and dedicated efforts, the spokeswoman said. Land Forces 2024 proceeded as planned, with AMDA receiving no request for its cancellation. Loading Greens MP Gabrielle de Vietri was among those calling for Land Forces to be cancelled, and was heavily criticised for joining the protests on a parliamentary sitting day last year. In a statement to The Age, she said, war-profiting should never have been in Melbourne to begin with. We made it clear we didnt want taxpayer money platforming weapons companies that profit from oppression and genocide. A Victorian government spokesman said the state supported police with record funding, and backed industry events that boosted the economy and jobs. China marks 2,576th anniversary of Confucius' birth Xinhua) 14:51, September 28, 2025 JINAN, Sept. 28 (Xinhua) -- Qufu, the hometown of Confucius in east China's Shandong Province, held both online and offline ceremonies on Sunday to commemorate the 2,576th anniversary of the ancient philosopher's birth. Wearing yellow ribbons, the participants entered the venue at around 9 a.m. and laid flower baskets in front of the statue of Confucius. Zhou Naixiang, governor of Shandong Province, read the eulogy and led the guests in bowing. The grand ceremony concluded around 10 a.m. on Sunday. To broaden participation and enhance its global impact, this year's commemoration featured a live online broadcast, enabling people worldwide to engage with Confucian culture. The tradition of commemorating Confucius dates back to 478 B.C., the year following his death. Today, the ceremony, featuring traditional music, dance, and other ceremonial forms, embodies the essence of propriety in Confucian culture. This year's event is also a key part of the 2025 China International Confucius Cultural Festival. As an educator and philosopher, Confucius (551-479 B.C.) founded a school of thought, which profoundly influenced later generations and became known as Confucianism. He was also the first to establish private schools in China, which admitted students from all social classes. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) Advertisement Reviews & adviceTripologist Opinion The things you should never pack in your carry-on bag Michael Gebicki The Tripologist September 29, 2025 5:00am September 29, 2025 5:00am Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share 41 View all comments Key points Lithium batteries and power banks are tightly regulated due to fire risks Items like coconuts, self-heating meals, fruits and cheeses might not make it past security Nail clipping, smelly foods, unmuted devices and DIY bar service might ruffle feathers onboard Think your carry-on is just a bag full of holiday essentials? Think again. Airlines see it as a potential rolling fire hazard, odour bomb or weapon of mass irritation. From lithium batteries that might explode inflight to coconuts that just might double as incendiary devices, the list of no-fly items is longer and weirder than youd think. Heres what not to pack unless you fancy a showdown with security. The rules around what you can put in your carry-on bag are more complicated than you think. iStock The battery blues The lithium batteries that power our smartphones, cameras and laptops are a fire hazard. If theyre stored in the hold and they erupt in flames, the aircraft is doomed. Therefore, they must be carried in the cabin. Australias Civil Aviation Safety Authority bans lithium-ion batteries with a capacity greater than 160Wh, except for mobility aid batteries. Thats a common limit for most countries but some airlines, for example Singapore Airlines, apply a lower maximum of 100Wh. Even the higher figure rules out E-scooters, hoverboards and removable lithium batteries for E-bikes. Advertisement Power banks are usually within the allowable limit but the rating needs to be engraved on the device. If not, you risk losing it at a security checkpoint. In January 2025, an Air Busan Airbus was destroyed by a fire blamed on a power bank stored in an overhead locker. In response, many airlines have slapped a blanket ban on the inflight use and charging of power banks. From October 1, Emirates requires power banks to be stored in the seat pocket or under the seat in front. Airlines are cracking down on the use of power banks on planes. Getty Images One Traveller reader recently reported having an AirTag removed from their check-in luggage when exiting New Zealand. The AirTag is powered by a CR2032 3V lithium battery, and is potentially a fire hazard if damaged, short-circuited or exposed to extreme temperatures but the chances of that happening are extremely remote. If airlines banned AirTags from checked luggage, theyd be useless as a travel aid. In one of the dumbest ever airline safety plays, in March 2017, under the first Trump administration, the Department of Homeland Security required incoming passengers from 10 airports in Muslim-majority countries in the Middle East and north Africa to stow their laptops and tablets in their checked luggage rather than in their carry-ons. The ban was prompted by concerns that explosives could be concealed in larger electronic devices. The directive was lifted after a few months but in the meantime, even the remote possibility of one of those devices causing a fire in the hold caused shudders among airline safety experts. What is officially banned from aircraft Advertisement Banned on board: coconuts. iStock The bible of what cant be taken on board aircraft is the International Air Transport Associations Dangerous Goods Register. At 1039 pages, its a head-hurting read. The index alone is five pages long, and while few passengers are likely to be toting explosives, corrosives or radioactive isotopes, one curious item on the list is the coconut. Since coconut meat has a high oil content, its highly combustible and therefore constitutes a fire hazard, forbidden either as hand luggage or in checked-in luggage. Its actually copra, dried coconut meat, thats the problem, but the ban applies to coconuts generally. It mostly affects air passengers in India, where flyers sometimes carry coconuts as a sacred item that has been ritually blessed by a Hindu priest. Self-heating meals, known as Meals Ready to Eat, are another curious item banned as a fire hazard. These are field rations distributed to military personnel, especially those in the US military. Since they have a self-heating element, airlines dont allow them on board. Caution is required for anyone carrying cremation ashes. Check with your airline. Youll want to transport the remains in your carry-on, but since the ashes might be in a metal container that cant be scanned, they might need to be in a plastic or some other container that can generate an image on the scanner. Food fails Advertisement Durian is a definite no-fly item, banned from most Asian carriers. Eating the pungent fruit even pre-fight might cause offence. In September, a Chinese family purchased 5.5 kg of durian in Thailand shortly before their flight home to China, but at the airport in Chiang Mai, they were told the fruit would not fly. Rather than binning the lot, the family divided the fruit among themselves and set to work. When they boarded, so noxious were the after-effects that they apologised to their fellow passengers. Durian is banned on planes across Asia. Tribune Subscription Download Cheese might be another no-go item. I found this out as I was about to board a British Airways flight out of Paris for London with a cargo of brie, Epoisses and a couple more cheese delights. Although it was in a vacuum-sealed bag, security said Non, but the agent did look sympathetic. Related Article Opinion Travel tips Seven essential things I always pack (and three I never do) Ben Groundwater Travel writer While not forbidden, some items should not be taken on board unless you really want to annoy your fellow passengers. Bring your own food by all means, but youll be spectacularly unpopular if your meal includes raw fish, century eggs, sauerkraut or kimchi. Ditto for shrimp paste and Stinking Bishop, a British washed-rind cheese that lives up to the name. Any food that requires dipping, slurping or which scatters crumbs like dandruff is better left for the after-flight party. Advertisement Alcohol is fine, but not for personal consumption. You cant BYO and chug-a-lug your own booze. From Miss Manners book of cabin etiquette crimes Some everyday items are best not deployed in the tight confines of an economy cabin. This is not the ideal place for personal grooming. Hair brushing, fine and good, but servicing the nails is not when it involves clippers or nail polish remover, the fumes of which are horrific. Dental floss, ditto, just dont, and the same goes for unmuted videos, games and movies on your smartphone or tablet. Headphones, please. Sign up for the Traveller newsletter The latest travel news, tips and inspiration delivered to your inbox. Sign up now. 36 killed in stampede at Vijays rally in TN CHENNAI/KARUR : THIRTY-SIX people, including eight children, died in a stampede at actor-politician Vijays rally in Karur, about 400 km away from Chennai, on Saturday, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister TN Chief Minister M K Stalin said. The dead also include 16 women, Stalin, who convened a meeting of top State officials at the Secretariat to review the situation, said. He also announced a Commission of Inquiry to be led by Justice Aruna Jagadeesan to probe into the deadly incident. Meanwhile, the Union Home Ministry has sought a report on the stampede from the Tamil Nadu Government. Union Home Minister Amit Shah also spoke to Tamil Nadu Governor R N Ravi and Stalin to take stock of the situation post-stampede at Karur and assured all possible central help. According to officials, the stampede broke out in theevening, around 7.30 pm, just asactor-politician Vijay wasaddressing supporters who hadgathered in huge numbers in theafternoon and were waiting forhours to get a glimpse of the TVKleader, also a top movie star. Vijay, who was addressing themassive gathering from atop hiscampaign vehicle, halted hisspeech mid-way when manyworkers raised an alarm afternoticing that people were fainting and falling. Many who fainted included women and children. Vijay himself requested away for the ambulance and hethrew water bottles from atop his campaign vehicle and also announced that a child had gone missing. He also urged police to come forward to help. TN CM, who was to leave for Karur on Saturday, termed the situation worrisome. The Government also announce a compensation of Rs 10 lakh each to the families of the victims. CM said he has instructed Ministers Ma Subramanian, Anbil Mahesh, and the District Collector to provide immediate support to affected people. President Droupadi Murmu expressed anguish over the tragic loss of lives in the incident and extended her deepest condolences to the bereaved family members. PM Modi, condoling the deaths, said: The unfortunate incident during a political rally in Karur, Tamil Nadu, is deeply saddening. My thoughts are with the families who have lost their loved ones. Wishing strength to them in this difficult time. Praying for a swift recovery to all those injured. Deeply pained by the tragic loss of lives in a stampede in Karur. My heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased. I pray to the Almighty to give them the strength to bear this grief and for the speedy recovery of the injured, Shah wrote on X. Hours after the stampede, TVK founder and actor Vijay said he was in unbearable pain following the incident. Vijay, who did not meet the waiting media at Tiruchirappalli and Chennai airports following the stampede, took to X to respond to the fatal incident. My heart has broken, I am in unbearable, inexplicable pain and grief, he said. ABSURD THEATRICS, GLORIFICATION OF TERRORIndia slams Pak PMs remarks at UNGA By Yoshita Singh : UNITED NATIONS : PAKISTANSmilitary pleaded for a cessation of fighting during Operation Sindoor in May, India has said in a hard-hitting response from the United Nations General Assembly, asserting that there is no room for any third party to intervene in issues between New Delhi and Islamabad. This Assembly witnessed absurd theatrics in the morning from the Prime Minister of Pakistan, who once again glorified terrorism that is so central to their foreign policy, First Secretary in Indias Permanent Mission to the UN Petal Gahlot said, delivering Indias Right of Reply in the UN General Assembly on Friday. Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif advanced a bizarre account of the recent conflict when India had launched Operation Sindoor targeting terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir in retaliation for the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 civilians, she said. The Resistance Front (TRF), an offshoot of Pakistan-based terrorist group Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), had claimed responsibility. India said, Till May 9, Pakistan was threatening more attacks on India. But on May 10, its military pleaded with us directly for a cessation to the fighting. The intervening event was the destruction caused to multiple Pakistani airbases by Indian forces. The pictures of that damage are, of course, publicly accessible. India slammed Pakistan after Sharif said his country won the war during the recent conflict with India, referred to the ceasefire facilitated by US President Donald Trump and raised the issue of Kashmir in his address to the UN General Assembly on Friday morning. Sharif had also said that the Pakistani forces had repulsed Indias attacks and claimed that seven Indian jets were turned to scrap and dust. In a sharp retort, India said that if destroyed runways and burnt-out hangars look like victory, as the Prime Minister claimed, Pakistan is welcome to enjoy it.Gahlot said in the UNGA hall that we saw many pictures of terrorists slain in Bahawalpur and Muridke terror complexes by Indian forces during Operation Sindoor. When senior Pakistani military and civilian officials publicly glorify and pay homage to such notorious terrorists, can there be any doubt about the proclivities of this regime, she said. Following Operation Sindoor, a viral photograph showed Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorist Hafiz Abdul Rauf leading prayers for those killed in strikes on the LeTs headquarters in Muridke, with the funeral being attended by members of the Pakistan Army. India further said that there is no room for any third party intervention in matters between New Delhi and Islamabad. India and Pakistan have long agreed that any outstanding issue between them will be addressed bilaterally. There is no room for any third party in that regard, Gahlot said. Sharif had claimed that while Pakistan was in a position of strength, it agreed to a ceasefire facilitated by Trumps bold and visionary leadership and thanked the American leader and his team for their active role in bringing about the ceasefire. CM distributes 2,100 helmets to youths Staff Reporter : Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav on Saturday addressed a Road Safety Awareness Programme organised under the ongoing Seva Pakhwada at Atal Path, Bhopal, where 2,100 free helmets were distributed to young two-wheeler riders. Emphasising the importance of helmet use, the Chief Minister called it the protective shield of life, urging citizens to act responsibly on roads to safeguard themselves and their families. Dr Yadav stated that road accidents remain the leading cause of unnatural deaths in the country, often due to overspeeding, not wearing helmets or seat belts. He underlined the need for citizens to take a pledge to always wear helmets while riding two-wheelers and follow all traffic norms. The CM flagged off a two-wheeler awareness rally and symbolically presented helmets to five youth participants, Manoj Nigam, Sandeep Bisen, Sumit Pradhan, NCC Cadet Sanya Siddiqui, and Anjali Singh promoting the message of self-protection. Highlighting Government initiatives, Dr Yadav mentioned that digital tools like speed guns, Fastag monitoring, and patrol units are being deployed to reduce accidents on highways and expressways. Under the Rahveer Yojana, citizens who help accident victims receive a Rs 25,000 incentive. Bhopal Police Commissioner Harinaryanachari Mishra shared that 37 city intersections are being made left-turn free to ease traffic. He reported that in 2024, over 1.8 lakh lives were lost and 3 lakh injured in road accidents across the country, reinforcing the urgency for road discipline. The event also saw the presence of Minister Krishna Gaur, MLAs Rameshwar Sharma and Bhagwandas Sabnani, Bhopal Municipal Corporation Chairman Kishan Suryavanshi, and a large gathering of youth, police officials, and public representatives. The States Dial-112 emergency response service, backed by 1,200 tech-enabled vehicles, was also highlighted as a critical support system for road safety and quick assistance. CREDAI Nagpur Metro hosts 15th Property Expo at Chitnavis Centre Business Reporter : The 15th edition of the CREDAI Nagpur Metro Property Expo is underway at the prestigious Chitnavis Centre, bringing together developers, bankers, housing finance institutions, and allied industries on one platform. This years Expo is being spearheaded by Chandrashekhar Khunne, the Convener of the event, whose vision and leadership have been the driving force behind its success. The expo stands as a testament to his dedication, realised through the collective efforts of all CREDAI participants. Supporting this vision wholeheartedly were President Er. Rajmohan Sahu and Secretary Architect Vishwas Gupta, who extended their strong guidance and encouragement to the entire team. Backing this leadership, Co-conveners Vijay Joshi and Harshad Damle went the extra mile to ensure the events success. Their tireless efforts, along with the dynamic contributions of Youth Wing Convener Prathamesh Dargan, were instrumental in translating the Conveners vision into reality, delivering an Expo of this scale and excellence. EMOTIONS Success in career never follows straight line By RITA AGGARWAL : Consulting Psychologist : Q. I have a lot of problems going on. My family, especially my mother is very unsupportive. I have opted for a job in desperation now which is good but not of my interest. I am confused regarding my career decision. I have a lot of dreams. I want to do something which I love. My family is content with me earning and have no interest in what I want to do. I cant complain. I feel like running away. I feel suffocated here. I remember the college days which were better. I am stuck. What should I do to know what my career aim in life is? Will career counselling help? Ans: Yes, you should come for career counselling as job satisfaction is very important for happiness in life. In bad times it is important to get a job but if you are in a position to choose the job to your liking then you should do so. If the choices are few and this job is a good one under the circumstances then you could tolerate it for some time and later switch to something that interests you. But that would be possible only if you know what you want and like doing. Career counselling will help you know your choices and make a plan. K.D. Q. I am a 20-year-old pursuing my B.Tech. in Computer Science. During the recent campus recruitment in our college, I got placed in one of the companies and I was the first girl with a job offer in our college. But I am not interested in joining the company for my own reasons and to add to it, I am not allowed to appear for the rest of the recruitment procedures in the campus as per our college rules. I am now totally confused and clueless about what I should plan next. I thought of getting my post-graduation done once I am done with my UG programme as my father thinks it might be helpful to find a job as a lecturer. But I am attracted to MBA programmes as well but the fear of not qualifying in the respective exams keeps me away from preparing for the same. At times I even think of preparing for UPSC exams. I am very confused. Please guide me. Ans. While choosing a career, it is important to understand your interests, aptitude and personality traits that would suit the best possible option. Are you inclined towards teaching or more inclined towards practical work and management? It requires an understanding of your future dreams as well as your aptitude and interests. You need to introspect and take time to decide. Do not rush into it. A session will help you find clarity. D. Q. I am a student of second year MBBS. I have a lot of competition in studies with my friends. During my first year, I was very good and attentive in my lectures and I used to get highest marks in the exam. But at the time of my final exam, my mom was critically ill. My performance in the exam dropped down and my friends stood first and second in the class. Now my mother is fine but my confidence level is very low and I am not be able to concentrate in my studies and in class. I feel very low in front of them. Please help me. Ans. Difficult situations can affect any one and your situation when your mother fell ill has affected your results. That was not your fault but fate. It happens to all of us. Many things are not in our control and we suffer the consequences. But it has nothing to tell about your talents and abilities. Your intelligence and discipline remain with you forever. Making comparisons with others will only lead to disappointment. Now that your mother is better, bring your focus to the present from the past and work towards your goal. Best of luck! Fed up of dowry harassment newly-married woman ends life in Raipura Staff Reporter : Fed up of dowry harassment, a newly married woman committed suicide in Raipura under Panagar police station. After the revelations in the postmortem investigation, the police registered a case and arrested the accused husband and mother-in-law. City Superintendent of Police Adhartal Rajeshwari Kaurav said that 25-year-old Mahima Kushwaha was married to Ankit Patel, a resident of village Raipura as per Hindu customs in May 2025. Mahima died under suspicious circumstances on September 6, 2025. CSP Kaurav informed that Mahima Kushwaha was married to Ankit Patel (Kachhi), resident of village Raipura, police station Panagar, in May 2025 with the mutual consent of both the families. During marriage, when Rs. 20,000 was offered during Lagun ceremony, Ankit Patel returned the Lagun saying that Rs. 50,000 were required as dowry, after much persuasion husband Ankit kept Rs. 20,000. At the time of Dwarchar, when groom Ankit Patel demanded a gold ring, Mahimas father Rajesh Kushwaha gave 20,000 rupees to him. After marriage, husband Patel and mother-in-law Manju Patel (Kachhi) used to ask for a big fridge, big cooler and Royal Enfield motorcycle in dowry. When their demands were not met, they used to beat her and torture her physically and mentally. Fed up with the continuous physical and mental torture, Mahima committed suicide by consuming poison. Police have registered a case under relevant sections of BNS. Forces destroy Naxal ordnance factory Our Correspondent : SUKMA : In a major success against left-wing extremists, security forces in Sukma district destroyed a Naxal-operated ordnance factory in the Metaguda camp area. A huge cache of arms, ammunition, and explosive-making materials was recovered, thwarting plans that could have caused heavy damage to security personnel. The operation dealt a significant blow to the Naxals, with officials indicating that such intensified actions will continue. police and the 203rd battalion of CoBRA. Acting on specific intelligence, a team from Metaguda camp moved into the forested and hilly areas near Erapalli and Koimenta villages. During the search in Koimenta forest hills, the team discovered and destroyed the Naxal-run arms and explosives manufacturing unit. Following the successful action, security personnel completed area domination and safely returned to camp. Four people booked after two buffaloes found electrocuted Bargi police registered an : FIR against four people, after buffaloes worth Rs 5 lakh that had gone to graze in Ghutiya forest under Bargi police station area disappeared. After receiving information, police initiated further investigation which revealed that four people had electrocuted two buffaloes to death and then buried them in the field to conceal the evidence, while the other buffaloes were still missing. Police have now registered a case against the accused under various sections. According to the police, Manoj Yadav, son of Raghuveer Yadav, resident of village Pidrai, Yadav Mohalla, village Annakheda, Tilwara, lodged a report that he ran a dairy at the village and have 62 buffaloes and 3 calves. On September 7, 2025, the shepherd of the village, Dhalchand Yadav, had taken his 65 buffaloes for grazing in the Ghutiya forest. When his buffaloes returned in the evening and were seen in the fields of Buddh Singh and Barelal. After this, while searching for them, he went to his field and saw that Buddh Singh, Barelal and Raju Gaud had buried his two buffaloes by digging a pit in their field. On Thursday, the police registered a case and started investigation. The buffaloes buried in the pit were exhumed, identified, and post-mortems were conducted. Preliminary investigations revealed that Buddh Gaud, Barelal Gaud, Raju Gaud, and Prahlad Gaud had electrocuted the buffaloes in the field, resulting in their death. After which, he hid the dead buffaloes in a pit in his field. The other buffaloes, worth Rs. 5 lakh, were still missing and the search was ongoing. A case has been registered against Buddhu Gond, Barelal Gond, Raju Gond, and Prahlad Gond. Plea filed in Supreme Court against quashing of amendment to MP Higher Judicial Service Rules NEW DELHI : A plea has been filed in the Supreme Court challenging an order of the Madhya Pradesh High Court that quashed an amendment to the Madhya Pradesh Higher Judicial Service (Recruitment and conditions of Service) Rules, 1994, for appointments to the post of district judge. The amendment introduced in 2015 allowed the high court to fill the posts of district judge (entry point) by judges from the district court if appropriate candidates were not found from the Bar quota (advocate quota) in two consecutive exams. The plea filed by the Madhya Pradesh High Court through its Registrar General seeks direction to stay the impugned order dated April 4, 2025. According to the petition filed through advocate Ashwani Dubey, the amendment was introduced to address the challenging situation of extremely low number of selections of district judges from the quota designated for practising lawyers having experience of more than seven years. The petition stated that from 2011 to 2015, 304 vacancies were notified in multiple recruitment drives in Madhya Pradesh, but only 11 advocates were found suitable, thus only 11 vacancies of district judge (entry level) were filled through direct recruitment of suitable lawyers. The same tantamount to filling up of 3.61 per cent of the available posts earmarked to be filled by way of recruiting suitable lawyers. Consequently, a substantial number of vacancies for the post of district judge (entry level) were left unfilled despite being duly advertised, therefore, a sharp rise was observed in the workload of the serving officers of the higher judiciary cadre of Madhya Pradesh. The manifold increase in workload further adversely affected the disposal rate and ultimately turned out to be a major hindrance in the smooth dispensation of justice in the state of Madhya Pradesh, the plea said. The petition also said that in light of the aforesaid situation, the then-chief justice made a detailed proposal having offered various modalities to overcome this issue of underwhelming number of recruitment in the post of district judge, especially by the direct recruitment method. The Proviso to Rule 5(1)(c) was introduced as a necessary institutional response to the chronic failure of the direct recruitment process for district judges through quota reserved for lawyers, which remained ineffective since 2006, the plea said. The petition also contended that the high court, however, failed to appreciate the contextual and constitutional rationale behind the amendment. The High Court passed the order on petitions filed by some candidates challenging the amendment. The plea said that the amendment does not create a new method of recruitment but serves as a conditional adjustment within the existing framework. Its purpose is to ensure continuity in judicial operations by filling long-standing vacancies and addressing systemic inefficiencies, thereby aligning with the broader constitutional goal of ensuring timely justice delivery, the plea said. Teens Quick Money Plan Backfires: Three held in IG phone snatching; stolen Android with bike recovered Staff Reporter : The mobile phone snatching incident targeting Intelligence IG Dr Ashish in the high-security Char Imli area had raised serious concerns across the Police Department. However, Habibganj police have successfully cracked the high-profile case within just 50 hours, arresting three accused, including two minors. The stolen Android phone, allegedly containing sensitive state security data, and the motorcycle used in the crime have both been recovered. According to police, the incident occurred on the night of September 23 when IG Dr Ashish was out for a walk with his wife in the secure Char Imli locality. Three suspects, a juvenile ringleader, 18-year-old Aditya Kanjariya, and another minor, snatched two mobile phones (an iPhone and an Android) while riding a single motorcycle. Following the heist, the accused reportedly had an argument. In a panic, one of them threw away the iPhone nearby, but the sensitive Android phone was wrapped in a polythene bag and buried in a four-foot-deep pit inside Swarn Jayanti Park. The juvenile ringleader confessed during interrogation that the crime was planned as part of a scheme to make quick money. The ringleader (minor) and Aditya Kanjariya were initially arrested on Friday, with the third minor being taken into custody on Saturday. The stolen items was recovered based on their confessions. Police Commissioner Harinarayanachari Mishra stated, Teams from the Crime Branch and half a dozen police stations tracked the suspects by meticulously sifting through hundreds of CCTV footages and using surveillance. We are now investigating the gangs involvement in other snatching incidents. One couldnt miss the several historic ironies when Britain declared support to a Palestine state last week. One, we saw the original sinner at the confessional. It was Britain which had sowed the idea of a homeland in Palestine for the globally dispersed Jews in 1917, thereby triggering the strife that has been raging in the Middle East since. In the process, they two-timed the Arabs who had supported them against the Ottoman empire in the First World War. Remember the story of Lawrence of Arabia. Two, it was a Jew who made the statement for Britain last week. Keir Starmer, though a Christian by birth and an atheist by faith, is a synagogue-goer. One may say that it is to keep shalom at homehis wife is a Jewbut many Jews consider him as one of them, as they did Benjamin Disraeli in the 19th century. Three, Starmer used much the same wording for a Palestine state as foreign secretary Arthur Balfour, who had fathered the idea of a homeland in Israel for the Jews in a letter to the Jewish banker Lord Rothschild. In the letter, published on November 9, 1917, Balfour had promised a "national home for the Jewish people" in Palestine, then an Ottoman region with a small Jewish population. Now, after we recognised the State of Israel more than 75 years ago as a homeland for the Jewish people today we join over 150 countries who recognise a Palestinian state too, said Starmer. Imaging: Deni Lal There is a fourth irony. Israel may be winning the military war on Palestine, but is losing on the diplomatic front. Since Yasser Arafat proclaimed a Palestine state in 1988, about 150 of 193 UN members have thumbed it up13 of them came in after Benjamin Netanyahu launched his war two years ago. Two years ago, no western country (except Sweden) would even hear of a separate Palestine; now there are Norway, Spain, Ireland, Slovenia, Britain, France, Canada, Australia and Portugal. Two are in the big five; four of them in G7. Therein lies a fifth irony: the two who are holding out, apart from the US, are the two old Axis allies, perhaps penitently. To India, its a moment of vindication. India had always balanced its ties with bothvoted against partitioning Palestine in 1947; yet recognised Israel in 1950 but did not establish diplomatic ties; recognised the PLO in 1974 and the Palestine state in 1988; and finally opened diplomatic ties with Israel in 1992. Ironically, that was done with the consent of Palestine leader Yassir Arafat, a deft act of diplomacy by Narasimha Rao that was hailed by his critic L.K. Advani Since then ties have soared with Israel, but not soared with Palestine. India stayed committed to the Palestinian cause, consistently condemned the terrorism of one side and genocide by the other side, and advocated dialogue to resolve the conflict. Narendra Modi did tilt towards Israel, declared India "stands in solidarity with Israel" in Netanyahus war on terror, abstained from UN resolutions calling for ceasefire, but has now voted in the UN in favour of a two-state solution, along with Britain, France and co. Well and good! But are these declarations going to be wishes writ in the waters of the Jordan river? Therein lies the biggest irony. Netanyahu is depopulating and 'depalestining' Gaza fasthis war has killed some 65,000 people in two years, and about 90 per cent of Gazans have been rendered homeless. At this rate, will there be any Palestinian left to live in Gaza, which is part of the Palestine state recognised by 150 of 193 members of the UN? prasannan@theweek.in Some filmmakers may have reached a critic-proof position. Paul Thomas Anderson is a perfect example. I don't think one viewing alone can do justice to his work. Anything can happen in a PTA film. He is one of the very few filmmakers unafraid to venture into some uncomfortable and awkward places. Ever since his directorial debut with Hard Eight (aka Sydney), Anderson has always been a disruptorthe good kind, that is. Even when narratives in his films don't readily become accessible on first viewing, there's a level of deftness to his storytelling approach that's very reassuring. PTA purists who grew up with his filmography and cannot find fault in any of his films, even in Inherent Vice (regarded by some fans as his least accessible work), will most likely agree on the point that they're not bad. (Or does excessive devotion to a certain filmmaker make it difficult for them to acknowledge occasional slip-ups?) Anyway, One Battle After Another is finally here, and I have to be honest here: I can't quite make up my mind as to whether I appreciated the film wholly or loved most of it. One thing I can say for sure: It's not bad; far from it. It belongs to that category of cinema that's more likely to get better upon revisits. It has happened before. And I cannot say this for all filmmakers. I don't believe in calling a film "bad" or "terrible" when it boasts a form that manages to engage my attention throughout its near-three-hour runtime. And for a politically charged portrait about radicals, isn't a radical narrative structure befitting? The Leonardo DiCaprio-starrer is another audacious work from PTA, proving yet again that he is the kind of filmmaker capable of opening up doors and pathways in your mind that hitherto didn't exist. It has some of the funniest performances, courtesy of DiCapriowearing an outfit resembling Jeff Bridges' from The Big Lebowskiand Sean Penn (Col. Lockjaw is his most memorable character in a long time), and competent turns from Benicio del Toro, Regina Hall, Teyana Taylor, and Chase Infiniti. We get lines like, "Get down like you're about to suck a d***." We get a hilarious nod to Stanley Kubrick's Dr Strangelove. (Kubrick and Sterling Hayden would've probably rolled on the floor after hearing someone say, "Semen demon.") To put it simply, PTA is the kind of filmmaker blessed with the powers to rewire your overstimulated brain, which has been corrupted by the toxic, exhausting after-effects of numerous reels and information overload. Some would scoff at the idea of calling PTAs films "escapist", but that's just what I would use. And One Battle After Another has been described as PTA's maiden foray into action filmmaking. Such a description, too, might invite ridicule from some whose idea of action is non-stop gunfire and explosions. Well, that's just a narrow way of looking at things, isnt it? One Battle After Another is action filmmaking at its purest. It could be Anderson's way of tipping his hat to John Sturges' excellent Bad Day at Black Rock, about which he once told the Los Angeles Times that you can learn more from it than from 20 years of film school. The 1955 film is packed with enough nerve-wracking moments, but it may slip under the radar of those seeking pyrotechnics every minute. How many would accept a one-armed geriatric "hero" who, despite his relentlessness, appears vulnerable at a crucial point? That is, before he devises ingenious methods to bring to justice a group of racist villains who run the small town at which no locomotive would dare to stop. PTA's film, too, features unconventional heroes living in a near-dystopian alternate reality rife with racial discrimination. A world where ordinary-looking assassins get orders to dispatch any white man who knowingly or unknowingly engages in an illicit relationship with a black woman. One chase sequence in One Battle After Another redefines the expression "rollercoaster ride." It literally does the same thing, but on a long, undulated highway. The effect, on IMAX, is hypnotic to say the least. It brings to mind a classic movie car chase regarded as one of the best of all time, from Steve McQueen's 1968 police thriller Bullitt. It's a chase that may look ordinary at first, but seen on an IMAX/PXL screen, you slowly begin to get that tingling sensation often associated with heights. And when we finally get to the payoff, we understand why the preceding moments had to be staged and cut that way. It's the kind of novelty factor and unorthodox, yet rewarding, filmmaking grammar that recalls some of the Hollywood greats of the 1960s and 1970s. PTA, though coming from the generation that succeeded similarly disruptive masters Stanley Kubrick, Martin Scorsese, Steven Spielberg, Ridley Scott, George Lucas, Francis Ford Coppola, Bob Rafelson (DiCaprio is named 'Bob Ferguson' in the film), Dennis Hopper, John Cassavetes embodies their same fervently iconoclastic spirit which generates work that stands out from the cookie-cutter fare churned out by most. Even James Cameron, regardless of the admirable ambition of his Avatar films, hasn't shown us anything in a long time that ventures outside a prescribed comfort zone, despite the advantages of his brand name and the stars who work with him. It's why the new PTA film feels as much like a big event as a new Scorsese or Spielberg outing. Thank you, Mr Paul Thomas Anderson, for existing. On World Heart Day 2025, Apollo Hospitals is urging every Indian to not miss a beat and make heart-healthy living a daily discipline. Cardiovascular disease continues to claim millions of lives each year, yet most of these losses are preventable through timely detection, treatment, and lifestyle changes. With the theme Dont Miss a Beat, Apollo is calling on individuals, families, workplaces, and communities to embrace prevention-first healthcare, close care gaps, and ensure timely screening across every age group. Findings from Apollos Health of the Nation 2025 study underscore the urgency. Silent risks are widespreadartery calcification, fatty liver, and sleep apnea are being detected even in those without symptoms. Post-menopausal women face higher cardiovascular risk and need tailored screening. Vitamin D and B12 deficiencies, as well as anemia, can reduce energy levels, making it more challenging to sustain regular exercise. Alarmingly, inactivity among teenagers is leading to poor flexibility, strength, and balance before the age of 25, setting the stage for future heart disease. Regional trends observed across Apollos network: In Delhi-NCR, hypertension prevalence continues to rise, with fatty liver seen in 65 per cent of those screened. In Mumbai, 46 per cent of asymptomatic individuals had coronary calcium; 25 per cent already had obstructive CAD, and 2.5 per cent were under 40. In Chennai, 29 per cent were diabetic and 37 per cent pre-diabetic. In Bengaluru, early-age hypertension and dyslipidemia are driven by sedentary indoor work hours. In Hyderabad, over 80 per cent of individuals with fatty liver were diabetic, and three-fourths of hypertensives had fatty liver. In Kolkata, hypertension and diabetes co-exist with hidden anemia and micronutrient deficiencies. In Lucknow, risks begin early, with 28 per cent of college students overweight and 19 per cent pre-hypertensive. As Indias pioneer in comprehensive cardiac care since 1983, Apollo Hospitals has consistently set benchmarks in outcomes and innovation. With over 3 lakh heart surgeries at a 99.6 per cent success rate, more than 500 robotic cardiac procedures, 500+ TAVI interventions, and a team of over 375 cardiologists, Apollo continues to lead Indias fight against heart disease. When we founded Apollo Hospitals, our purpose was simple: to save hearts and lives and restore hope. Four decades later, the science is clear - waiting for symptoms is waiting too long. Dont Miss a Beat is a call to every Indian household to know your blood pressure and your numbers, sleep well, be active, and seek timely medical advice. As a pioneer in cardiac care, Apollo brings trusted clinicians and advanced, data-led tools together so that risk is found early and treatment is precise. If India embraces prevention as a daily discipline, we will add millions of healthy years and spare millions of families needless loss - one heartbeat at a time," said Dr Prathap C Reddy, Chairman, Apollo Hospitals Group. As India marks World Heart Day 2025, Apollo Hospitals reaffirms its commitment to protecting every heartbeat through access, equity, and prevention. Because when it comes to the Indian heart, every beat matters. It is 5.30am. The sound of women wailing in front of the mortuary at the government medical college hospital at Gandhigram in Karur is heart-wrenching. Three elderly women are seen hugging each other and singing Oppari (the death music in Tamil). A huge crowd is seen waiting in front of the mortuary at the hospital as ambulances drive in and out. At least 40 people, including 10 children and 16 women, have died in the stampede at Velusamypuram at Karur, during actor and Tamilaga Vetri Kazhagam (TVK) leader Vijay's people outreach campaign on Saturday. The death toll, according to sources, is likely to increase as 58 more people are still getting treated at the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at the Karur Medical College Hospital. Crying nonstop, 25-year-old Santhosh is inconsolable. Standing in front of the mortuary, his sister shows the picture of his eight-year-old nephew, Prithvik, in her WhatsApp status. "Thalattu Padava" (can I sing a lullaby) plays on her phone as she shows the picture. "Aiyyo...I shot his photo only yesterday to have it as my WhatsApp status. But my little boy is gone; the WhatsApp status is still live now," cries Revathi, who waits for her sister to come out from the mortuary with Prithvik's body. "Bubblu poittan akka," (Bubblu is dead, sister) says her sister as she comes running to hug Revathi. She is the mother of Prithvik, who got treated at the Karur hospital, as she too was hurt in the stampede. Being a fan of actor Vijay, eight-year-old Prithvik and his family set out from Erumaputhur, a locality 12km off Karur, along with a few other women in a van on Saturday at 10am. While Prithvik's family is waiting to receive his body at the mortuary, grief has struck Erumaputhur village. A total of five people from the village, including three women and two children, have died from Erumaputhur alone. "I advised my wife to stay back at home. She didn't listen to me. She is a fan of Vijay, and she fought with me for stopping her," says 51-year-old K. Sakthivel. Clad in a white dhothi and his head shoven, Sakthivel refuses to drink even a cup of water. "What will I do now? There is nobody for me. I am alone now." Sakthivel, who lost his 9-year-old daughter a few years before due to illness, has now lost his wife Priyadarshini and 14-year-old elder daughter Dharanika. Sakthivel called his wife thrice during the day. But, she wasn't reachable after 5pm. So he sent a voice message and she replied to him in a voice note, again by around 6.30pm. When Sakthivel saw the visuals emerging from the spot, he called her again. But she wasn't reachable. By 9pm, a police constable picked up Priyadarshini's phone and asked him to come to the hospital. But before he could reach, both his wife and daughter had died. Heaps of footwear, shirts, dupattas, yellow and red ( TVK flag) coloured shawls, and torn party flags are strewn across at the Velusamypuram. The 80-foot road bears the grim aftermath of Vijay's rally. The cables running to the electricity transformer on the spot hangs on one side. The asbestos sheets in front of the shops are broken. A few two-wheelers lie there, with the seat covers torn and broken handlebars. Early morning on Sunday, the local residents at Velusamypuram recount the horror scenes at Vijay's rally, which killed 40 people. "I am working at a cement factory here. My 24-year-old son had come here to see Vijay. He came at 12pm. The crowd began coming in from 10am itself. When I heard about the soaring crowd, I came here and took my son," says 52-year-old Samypillai. "We were told that he will come at 12pm. But he came only by 7.40pm. I ensured that my entire family stayed back inside the house," says R. Rajeswari, a resident of Velusamypuram. According to people from the locality, the choice of the venue, Vijay's late arrival, and lack of basic amenities like water and food aggravated the situation. "Karur town DSP Selvaraj informed the organisers of the rally that it is not advisable for Vijay to reach the spot as the crowd was growing restless. But the organisers refused to listen. Vijay, who was waving to the crowd from inside the bus, stopped it for a while, and so the crowd started following him," says Davidson Devasievatham, ADGP, Law and Order. While some of the people at the spot and the hospital criticised the police for the lack of required bandobust, Davidson says that one policeman for 50 people is the usual count for a dense crowd, as per police norms. "We had deployed one policeman for 20 people." However, sources confirm that Vijay, who was waving to the crowd from atop the bus, got inside and switched off the face lamp, while his bus crossed the 800-metre road to reach the spot. According to sources, TVK organisers in Karur presented five spots before the police and the district administration while seeking permission for the rally. They had asked for spots, including the bus stand roundabout and the Light House in Karur, for the rally. However, the places they sought were thickly populated business areas and the police denied permission. Instead, the police granted permission for the meeting at Velusamypuram on Karur-Erode Road, where AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami held a rally on September 14, which was again suggested and accepted by the organisers. TVK, on the other side, announced on its Twitter handle that Vijay will arrive at 12noon, while he reached the spot at 7.40pm only. Many of them in the crowd, mostly women and children, began waiting at the spot from 11am to get a glimpse of their favourite tinsel artist, while the organisers played the campaign song of the actor, making many of the women dance. And as Vijay reached the spot, the crowd began following him as they wanted to see and hear him speak. But, as many women started moving inside the makeshift place kept ready for a generator for sourcing power, the cable wire to the console and Vijay's audio speakers were cut off and were subsequently switched off. This led to huge chaos as Vijay could not be heard, and the crowd moved to the other side of his bus. Meanwhile, the partymen attacked the ambulances and the ambulance drivers who tried to reach the spot to pick up the people who fainted. This again led to a delay in getting medical help for those who were affected. "The power lines were not cut off, nor was it switched off, there was electricity supply. But the generator organised by them was switched off. We had to snap power for a while before Vijay could reach the spot," says E. Rajalakshmi, chief engineer of the electricity department at Karur. The one-man commission headed by former Madras High Court judge Justice Aruna Jagadesan has started a probe to find the actual cause that led to the mishap. Meanwhile, the Madras High Court has decided to urgently hear a petition filed by a Karur resident, who participated in the rally to forbid the DGP from granting permissions for any further public meetings by the party. The court has also allowed an urgent mention made by the TVK party seeking a suo motu cognisance into the stampede Self-styled godman Swami Chaitanyananda Saraswati, accused of sexually harassing 17 female students at a private institute in Delhi, was arrested from Agra, police said on Sunday. Saraswati (62), alias Partha Sarathy, was the director of the Sri Sharada Institute of Indian Management, an institution under the Dakshinamnaya Sri Sharada Peetha in Sringeri. Following the sexual harassment allegations, the ashram expelled him from the post. Saraswati is also facing allegations of cheating, forgery and criminal conspiracy. He had been absconding since the Delhi police filed a case against him earlier this week. The accused has been charged under sections 75(2) (sexual harassment), 79 (word, gesture or act intended to insult the modesty of a woman) and 351(2) (criminal intimidation) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) at Vasant Kunj North police station. Delhi Police apprehended Swami Chaitanyananda Saraswati @ Parth Sarthy, late at night, from Agra. He is accused of allegedly molesting female students pursuing PGDM courses under the EWS scholarship and forgery. (Pic Source: Delhi Police) pic.twitter.com/m2cpaRsnln ANI (@ANI) September 28, 2025 The arrest came two days after the Delhi High Court dismissed his anticipatory bail petition. According to police, Saraswati allegedly tracked women through hostel CCTV feeds, including cameras installed outside washrooms and those across the campus, directly on his phone. He is also accused of using his BMW car valued at Rs 1.5 crore to take female students to Rishikesh under the pretext of "industrial visits". Police have already seized the car from the basement of the institute. The investigators believe the dashcam of the BMW may provide some material evidence. There were reports that Saraswati converted his ground-floor office in the institute into a torture chamber where female scholars were allegedly exploited. However, police said no such chamber could be found during the investigation. On Friday, the Delhi police had frozen nearly Rs 8 crore linked to Saraswati. The amount was spread across 18 bank accounts and 28 fixed deposits. According to police, the money belonged to a trust floated by Saraswati, which allegedly received huge donations and contributions. The accused also allegedly forged documents, obtained two passports in different names and operated multiple bank accounts in different names, it noted. Swami Chaitanyananda Saraswati, accused of sexually harassing several female students at a Delhi institute, had forged visiting cards for BRICS and the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC), the investigation has revealed. In one of the visiting cards, Saraswati identified himself as a BRICS Commission Member and a Special Envoy from India. In the UN visiting card, the self-styled godman described himself as a Permanent Ambassador, news agency IANS reported, quoting officials. Saraswati, the former chairman of the Sri Sharada Institute of Indian Management in Delhi, was arrested from Agra in the wee hours of Sunday after at least 17 students at the institute raised sexual harassment complaints against him. He had been absconding since the Delhi police filed a case against him on August 4. #WATCH | Delhi Police apprehended Swami Chaitanyananda Saraswati @ Parth Sarthy, late at night, from Agra. He is accused of allegedly molesting female students pursuing PGDM courses under the EWS scholarship and forgery. https://t.co/sZNbwzLlfi pic.twitter.com/lRyT7oQigX ANI (@ANI) September 28, 2025 The godman is also accused of cheating, forgery and criminal conspiracy. In the wake of the allegations, the Dakshinamnaya Sri Sharada Peetha in Sringeri, which runs the institute, expelled him from the post. "Multiple teams were formed to nab Saraswati. Based on inputs, we tracked him to a hotel in Agra's Taj Ganj area and caught him from there around 3.30 am on Sunday," a senior police officer said. In their complaint, the female students alleged that Saraswati would call them to his room late at night and threaten to fail them or reduce their grades if they resisted his advances. He is also accused of tracking women through hostel CCTV feeds, including cameras installed outside washrooms and those across the campus, directly on his phone. The investigation has revealed that the accused allegedly used different names and particulars to operate multiple bank accounts and withdrew over Rs 50 lakh after the FIR was registered against him. The stampede at Tamil Nadus Karur during actor Vijays TVK political rally is likely to have a huge implication for the actor-turned-politician after rumours began to surface that he could face legal challenges, even an arrest, in the wake of the incident. Authorities have stepped up security at Vijays home in Chennai citing public ire over the stampede death, according to reports. Though the government has only announced that a commission led by retired judge Aruna Jagadeesan would arrive in Karur later in the day to probe the incident, calls seeking Vijays arrest are getting louder. Many refer to the Allu Arjun arrest during Pushpa-2 release as a precedent. After the stampede that claimed multiple lives in Hyderabad, the probe team arrested Allu Arjun during the investigation, citing mismanagement of his team. However, he was released after the courts clarified that the responsibility for the event rested on the organisers and not on the celebrity. In this wake, the government may face calls for Vijays arrest, citing direct negligence and overriding safety warnings, especially his seven-hour delay in arriving at the rally venue, which contributed to the crowd fatigue and restlessness. DMK leader Marudhu Azhaguraraj has already criticised Vijay for his behavior, stating the actor did not stay with the people and fled to the capital Chennai after the tragedy, like a hit-and-run driver. He also attacked the actor, stating he deliberately delayed starting the event to keep people waiting for a long time to portray it as a public influence. Vijay, who left immediately from the venue, flew to Chennai after the accident. He did not give any public statements, avoiding reporters. The private plane he used landed at the Chennai airport at 11:30 pm. Over 11,000 people tracked Vijay's plane on the flight tracker, FlightRadar. However, Vijay posted a condolence message on Sunday, stating he is deeply anguished over the incident. He also announced that Rs 20 lakh would be given to the families of those who lost their lives at a stampede. It is not a huge amount for the loss you have suffered. I know your loss cannot be replaced. It is an irreparable loss. However, it is my duty to stand next to you in this hour and share your grief," he said. The Madurai bench of Madras High Court will hear a plea moved by Tamilaga Vettri Vazhagam (TVK) and its leader Vijay over the tragic stampede in Karur. The newly launched political party has sought a probe by a central agency or an independent probe into the incident. A group of lawyers led by the party's advocates' wing president, S. Arivazhagan, went to the residence of Justice M. Dhandapani and urged him to consider the party's plea urgently. Though on puja holidays, the High Court will take up the plea on Monday. In the plea, the party alleged conspiracy behind the deadly mishap and demanded an independent probe. The petitioners urged the Court to take suo motu cognisance of the case and order a probe by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) or by a Special Investigation Team (SIT) into the tragic stampede. As many as 40 people died in a tragic stampede at Velusamypuram in Karur on Saturday. The deceased include 10 children and 16 women. The death toll, according to sources, is feared to increase as 58 more people are still getting treated at the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at the Karur Medical College Hospital. According to TVK party functionary Nirmal Kumar, the judge asked the advocates to file a petition before the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court and it will be taken up for hearing on Monday at 2.15pm. Meanwhile, the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam-led state government has ordered a judicial probe into the matter. The state government has formed a single-judge commission and appointed former Madras High Court judge Aruna Jagadeesan to conduct a probe into the matter. Indian expatriates in Abu Dhabi have received a jolt after property owners have hiked rents in anticipation of the Etihad Rail project. This comes after the announcement regarding the launch of Etihad Rail, a high-speed rail that takes just 50 minutes to reach Dubai from Abu Dhabi, which caused a flutter in the property market. According to real estate developers, the high-speed train could help boost property values by 30 per cent along the route. The effect is already evident on the group, according to reports. Indian expatriates complain that the rent has been hiked from five to 25 per cent. Property owners have already notified tenants about these demands, and the new rates will come into effect upon renewal of rental agreements. Those who refuse to pay the increased rent are being asked to vacate their flats. Many are in a fix as they are forced to pay an even higher amount than their current rent if they decide to shift. The situation is not just in the city center but in other areas of Abu Dhabi, including Musaffah Shabiya, a residential hub for Indians; a two-bedroom flat costs 20% more. The tightening of laws against multiple families residing in a single flat has also contributed to the rent hike, as demand for flats and villas has increased. Property boom Now that Etihad Rail is set to become operational in 2026, which will connect 11 cities from Fujairah to the Saudi border, experts believe land owners are bracing for a windfall. While people are holding on to plots anticipating higher prices, developers are scouting sites for housing, retail, and logistics projects, according to Gulf News. The report quoted Imran Farooq of Samana Developers, who claimed that the rail line is a game-changer for urban expansion, which will help property values in key locations jump 2030% within five years. The decision by France, Germany, and the United Kingdomknown collectively as the E3to trigger the snapback mechanism and reimpose United Nations sanctions on Iran, marks a further breakdown in diplomatic efforts to contain Tehrans nuclear ambitions. The move, which became effective today, restores sanctions that had been suspended for a decade under the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), more commonly referred to as the landmark nuclear deal. A race against time The E3 argued they had no choice but to act, citing Irans continued nuclear escalation and its repeated failure to comply with the JCPOA. European negotiators had earlier informed the UN Security Council that Tehran had violated almost all of its commitments. ALSO READ | EXPLAINED: UNSC decides not to lift sanctions on Iran. What does it mean for Tehran's nuclear programme? The timing was significant: the sanctions were due to expire permanently in October, so the mechanism was invoked before that date. Another factor was the need to complete the process before Russia assumed the presidency of the Security Council next month. The snapback mechanism was designed to be veto-proof, ensuring that opposition from Russia or China could not block it. Despite several rounds of high-level meetings this month, including sessions with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, negotiations collapsed. Europes central demands included evidence that Iran was prepared to seek a diplomatic settlement, full cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), and clarification of its stockpile of highly enriched uranium (which exceeds 400kg). An agreement reached between the IAEA and Tehran on resuming inspections was judged too vague by European diplomats. Iran pushes back Irans reaction was swift as it recalled ambassadors from London, Paris, and Berlin. President Masoud Pezeshkian condemned the decision as unfair and illegal, while Araghchi dismissed it as an abuse of process. Pezeshkian insisted Iran would never pursue nuclear weapons and accused Washington of pressuring its European partners into refusing compromise. Middle East on edge The return of sanctions comes against a backdrop of heightened Middle Eastern tension. Earlier this year, Israel carried out a 12-day assault on Iran, supported by US airstrikes on major facilities, including Fordow and Natanz. These strikes are believed to have set back Irans nuclear programme by as much as two years, although the state of much of the infrastructure remains uncertain. Araghchi even suggested that large quantities of enriched uranium could be buried beneath rubble. Since the US unilaterally abandoned the JCPOA in 2018 under President Donald Trump, Iran has expanded its enrichment programme steadily. It now produces uranium enriched to 60 per centclose to the 90 per cent required for weapons-grade materialand possesses a stockpile sufficient for several bombs if it chose to take that step. Iran has also restricted IAEA monitoring, particularly after the June conflict. Israel has urged against any delay in tightening pressure on Tehran, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hinting that his government would be prepared to strike again if necessary. The E3 warned Iran to avoid escalation, but some officials in Tehran had previously threatened that the snapback might push the country to withdraw from the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, which would end all international oversight. Pezeshkian has since indicated Iran has no intention of leaving the treaty, though he demanded assurances that Israeli attacks would not continue. Analysts caution that reduced cooperation with the IAEA could heighten the risk of miscalculation and provide justification for further strikes by Israel or the United States. Impact of the UN snapback sanctions The sanctions restored by the UN cover a wide range of sectors, including an arms embargo, restrictions on ballistic missile technology and limits on oil exports and financial services. The decision brings Europe closer to the long-standing American policy of maximum pressure on Tehran. Washington welcomed the E3s move as a sign of decisive leadership. The global response, however, remains divided. China and Russiaboth signatories to the JCPOA and longstanding partners of Iranhave refused to recognise the sanctions. Moscow described the snapback as illegitimate and accused Europe of setting a trap, while Beijing continues to buy Iranian oil in defiance of US demands. ALSO READ | 'Islamic NATO': Muslim countries are calling for a unified military front to take on enemies The reimposition of sanctions would have a devastating effect on the Iranian economy, which is already strained by years of US sanctions. The alarming fall in value of the Iranian currency has pushed up the prices of rice, meat and dairy, leaving many families impoverished. Growing economic woes and the fear of renewed conflict (like the one in June) have intensified psychological strain across society. The situation has been further exacerbated by a wave of governmental repression. Reports from Iran say death sentences have gone up to levels not witnessed in decades. Although the sanctions have been reinstated, both the E3 and Washington insist that diplomacy remains an option. Yet, reversing snapback sanctions would require consensus at the Security Council, making any such move extremely difficult. The E3 maintain that they will continue to pursue negotiations to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons, but the latest developments underline the deepening crisis surrounding Tehrans programme. Three people were killed and at least six were injured in Southport, a coastal city in North Carolina, US, after a gunman who approached by boat, fired shots at a waterfront bar, American Fish Company. A person of interest is currently being questioned, according to Southport spokesperson ChyAnn Ketchum. American Fish Company, the restaurant where the shooting occurred | X The incident occurred at 9:30 p.m. local time, officials said, according to 911 calls made. 10 to 15 shots were fired from a passing boat at the crowded dockside restaurant at the Southport Yacht basin. Live camera shows heavy police presence in the area pic.twitter.com/MObSb3romw Intel Point Alert (@IntelPointAlert) September 28, 2025 The boat then left the area through the Intracoastal Waterway, according to City Manager Noah Saldo, who spoke to Star News. The boat may have been headed toard the neighbouring community of Oak Island where authorities are investigating. The citys social media page sent out a warning for an active shooter in the area. Authorities warned all residents to stay in their homes and report any suspicious activity in a Facebook post. So far, no arrests have been made. The extent of the victims injuries is also unknown. American Fish Company is a popular hang out spot in the city and often features live music. A post on Instagram by the band Bacon Grease showed that they were scheduled to perform on Saturday when the shooting occured from 7 to 10 p.m. Tony Hetherington is Financial Mail on Sunday's ace investigator, fighting readers corners, revealing the truth that lies behind closed doors and winning victories for those who have been left out-of-pocket. Find out how to contact him below. F.P. writes: I printed out a mini-statement of my Halifax account, now operated by Lloyds Bank, and to my horror it showed that, on September 10, Philips Domestic took 4,399. I have had no dealings with any company of this name. Can you help me, please? Tony Hetherington replies: I have been doing this job for a long time, but even I was shocked by this. You are an 85-year-old pensioner, living alone, and the missing money was about half the total amount in your Halifax account. You were upset, worried and scared that whoever took your cash would come back for more. You even began to blame yourself, thinking you must have given your card details to a scammer. But with your permission I rang the Lloyds Bank debit card fraud line, and was told this was not a one-off debit card transaction. The 4,399 had been taken from your account under a direct debit, suggesting it was a regular bill payment and that Philips Domestic would be back for more. Worrying: Finding fraudulent bank withdrawals can be upsetting Lloyds said it was up to us to contact Philips Domestic. Yet according to Companies House, there is no such British company. You might wonder how your bank could allow any payment when you had never signed a direct debit authorising it. Well, under a scheme called the Automated Direct Debit Instruction Service (AUDDIS), companies simply tell your bank that they have your approval, and the bank hands over your cash. What could possibly go wrong?! I asked Lloyds to say exactly where your money had gone, but it told me: 'We wouldn't be able to share that information.' However, to give Lloyds its due, it refunded your 4,399 within a day or so so well done for that. The Philips electrical giant is based in the Netherlands. And when I contacted it, I was told it had licensed a company called Versuni to use its name so this was my next stop, again in the Netherlands. And this is where your bad dream has turned into what could be a nightmare for many more people. Worryingly, Versuni told me that someone ordered high-end products, and provided your bank details for payment, but with a delivery address that was not your home. The company explained: 'We are aware of recent third-party fraud associated with some direct debits and have launched an investigation.' You are not the only victim, and Versuni has notified the police. But should it be this easy to fool AUDDIS into dipping into anyone's bank account, no questions asked? Pay UK, the banking body which oversees AUDDIS, commented: 'If there is an error in the set up or collection of a direct debit, customers are fully protected by the direct debit guarantee.' Fine words, now that we know how AUDDIS can be used fraudulently. On the other hand, just how reliable is it when something simply goes wrong, without any fraud, and how easy is it for the ordinary customer to go up against big banks and businesses? I'll give the answers next week, and again, they will not make for easy reading. Months without a pension thanks to an IT 'update' S.L. writes: I was resources director at a housing association, and last year the chairman gave me notice on the grounds that my age, 67, did not fit with his succession plan. I left in January and have been trying to access my pension. The scheme is run by TPT Retirement Solutions, and it closed access to the fund for four months on 'administrative grounds'. I tried again in June, but still find it difficult to get any information. Waiting game: The pension scheme is run by TPT Retirement Solutions, and it closed access to the fund for four months on 'administrative grounds' You worked for the Cottsway Housing Association, which told me: 'TPT have been carrying out work on a new online portal since December 2024. They contacted our staff in advance with information about the changes, including steps to take and deadlines to meet if they wanted to access their pension fund before the work was due to complete in May.' Cottsway washed its hands of any responsibility to you. TPT confirmed it warned it would not process any new pensions before the end of April. It added: 'Unfortunately, it seems that Mr L was made redundant in January during this transition period.' And then, of course, the work overran. Even after you resubmitted your application, TPT delayed paying you. It told me this was 'because of a reconciliation of post transitional annual management charges that needed to be undertaken'. I am sure you were happy to accept this gobbledegook as a reason for living without your pension for months! But miraculously, two days after I contacted TPT, it sent you all of your outstanding pension. If you believe you are the victim of financial wrongdoing, write to Tony Hetherington at Financial Mail, 9 Derry Street, London W8 5HY or email tony.hetherington@mailonsunday.co.uk. Because of the high volume of enquiries, personal replies cannot be given. Please send only copies of original documents, which we regret cannot be returned. Jaguar Land Rover claimed the security of its computer systems was 'transformed' and on a 'positive trajectory' just months before a devastating cyberattack crippled Britain's biggest carmaker, The Mail on Sunday can reveal. The firm is on the hook for billions of pounds of losses after hackers broke into its IT network at the end of August, forcing it to shut its three factories in Solihull and Wolverhampton, in the West Midlands, and Halewood, in Merseyside. The sites will remain closed until at least Wednesday, but it is feared that the production shutdown could last a lot longer, piling pressure on Jaguar Land Rover's network of suppliers. Ministers were this weekend scrambling to pull together a rescue package that stopped short of a Covid-style furlough scheme to pay workers to stay at home. Jaguar Land Rover's three factories produce about 1,000 cars a day and employ 30,000 people directly. Another 200,000 workers in the just-in-time supply chain depend on it for work. Jaguar Land Rover is burning through up to 1 billion of cash every month, experts say. Sign of the times: Jaguar Land Rover claimed the security of its computer systems was 'transformed' and on a 'positive trajectory' just months before the devastating cyberattack The stricken firm had not taken out cyber insurance to protect it from hackers, leaving it liable for all the losses and costs linked to the devastating hack. The Indian-owned company seems to have been increasingly confident its computer systems could withstand a cyber attack. Its latest accounts, signed off in May, paint an improving picture of its information security systems, which are described as being on a 'positive trajectory'. 'We are on the right path with the necessary momentum and investment to systematically reduce risks while enhancing cyber readiness and resilience,' the principal risks section of the report stated. 'IT operations are being transformed,' the report added. Jaguar Land Rover's IT is outsourced under an 800 million, five-year deal to Tata Consultancy Services, which like Jaguar Land Rover is part of the Tata business empire. Tata Consultancy Services also provided IT services to Marks & Spencer and the Co-op, two retailers hit by cyber attacks this year that cost them hundreds of millions of pounds each. Jaguar Land Rover is highly profitable and has deep pockets. It made 2.5 billion in pre-tax profit last year and at the end of June had 5 billion of liquidity, made up of 3.3 billion in cash and a 1.7 billion loan facility. 'This is a pretty solid liquidity position,' said David Bailey, professor of business economics at Birmingham Business School. 'JLR will get through this.' But without Tata's support, Jaguar Land Rover itself could have as little as three to four months left before it runs out of cash if the disruption continues, Bailey warned. The company has manually paid 300 million to suppliers in recent days to keep them going. 'JLR is facing its biggest crisis ever and is doing its bit to keep suppliers going,' Bailey said. Tata told MPs this week that it was 'premature to provide a definitive' assessment of the financial impact but added the company was in a 'good position' to secure extra borrowing if needed. Hopes that the worst of the cyberattack may be over rose last week when Jaguar Land Rover said some of its systems were back online. The company said it was 'working to clear a backlog of payments' to suppliers as it now had increased its processing capacity for invoicing them. Bailey added: 'Tata Consultancy Services clearly has some very big questions to answer as to how JLR was left so vulnerable. 'This has become the biggest crisis in JLR's history and has required a massive effort by all involved at the firm to get through this. 'There needs to be a deep-dive, root-cause analysis of how this happened and how to avoid it in the future.' Tata Consultancy Services was contacted for comment. While car production remains on hold, a spokesperson for Jaguar Land Rover said: 'Our teams are working around the clock, alongside cybersecurity specialists, the National Cyber Security Centre and law enforcement to investigate the cyber incident. 'The foundational work of our recovery programme is firmly under way and we thank everyone connected with JLR for their continued support and patience.' Rachel Reeves will find out this week just how big a black hole she has to fill in her Budget when the official forecaster's initial estimates for economic growth land on her desk. The Chancellor is braced for the Office for Budget Responsibility to cut its key productivity forecast, leaving Reeves on track to break her fiscal rules and making big tax rises inevitable. The OBR has consistently overestimated long-term growth in productivity the amount of output per hour worked which has remained stubbornly low despite advances in technology. Experts says even a tiny reduction in the OBR's forecast would have a big impact on the public finances. It currently assumes productivity growth of 1.1 per cent a year over the medium term. But slicing just 0.1 of a percentage point from that forecast would mean Reeves would have to find 9 billion to make her numbers add up, according to Allan Monks, UK economist at JPMorgan investment bank. Shockwaves: Chancellor Rachel Reeves in Downing Street last October The Chancellor promised after her first Budget last year that she would not come back with more tax increases or extra borrowing. But she is likely to have to find anywhere between 20 billion and 50 billion to balance the books in November's Budget. The Government already faces a 6 billion shortfall after back-tracking on welfare cuts and winter fuel payments. Economic growth has also stalled, partly because of the 25 billion of employer National Insurance taxes that Reeves heaped on business in her last Budget. And the recent rise in Government borrowing costs will add several billion pounds to the debt interest bill. Reeves is also under pressure to give herself more than the historically low headroom of just 9.9 billion against her key fiscal rule, which is to fund day-to-day spending on the likes of health, education and defence entirely from taxes by the end of the decade. But the sheer size of the gap in the public finances has led to growing calls for the Chancellor to abandon her manifesto pledge of not raising income tax, VAT or employee National Insurance the three biggest revenue raisers for the Treasury, making up more than half of all receipts. Experts warn that targeting pensioners, landlords and certain self-employed people by making them pay National Insurance will not raise enough money to plug the hole. In July, the OBR admitted it had been too optimistic in its past growth forecasts, leaving Treasury officials reportedly resigned to a significant productivity downgrade. But they are frustrated that the OBR has not acted sooner given its poor forecasting record since the watchdog was created in 2010 to give an independent assessment of the public finances. Reeves is expected to challenge any downward revision to the OBR's forecasts. She will argue that a series of 'pro-growth' measures such as easing planning restrictions to allow more airport runways and data centres to be built will boost growth. The OBR will give its final verdict on the public finances after Reeves reveals her tax and spend plans to the watchdog shortly before the Budget. Thousands of start-ups and sole traders in WeWork-type offices could be hit with business rates after a shake-up that campaigners say stifles growth. The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) has sounded the alarm that many firms could be forced to shut down if vital tax relief is taken away from them. Small business rate relief (SBRR) reduces firms' annual business rates bill, with the potential for a 100 per cent discount on some properties. The Valuation Office Agency (VOA) has started to disqualify firms in shared office spaces from SBRR, with tenants in up to 4,000 properties facing bills for the first time. This is in response to a recent legal ruling which determined that individual rooms in barristers' chambers were not eligible for small business rates relief. For example, sole traders in a shared office with a rateable value of 230,000 with 20 tenants sharing facilities such as meeting rooms, IT space and storage might each be classed as being in a property with a rateable value of 11,500. Drama: WeWork's rise and fall was depicted in an Apple TV docuseries This is less than the 12,000 SBRR threshold. But under the changes they could see their rates bills go from zero to 5,750 a year, the FSB estimates. And the federation fears the precedent will see thousands more firms, including those in food halls and market spaces, dragged into the tax-paying bracket in a VOA review in April. WeWork led the way in shared office spaces and was once valued at 38 billion before going bust a saga covered in the documentary WeWork: Or The Making And Breaking Of A $47 billion Unicorn. It has since been rescued, but today the focus is on the plight of its tenants. The FSB warns that a loss of relief could ultimately directly affect about 150,000 small businesses and sole traders. It has called on the Government to change the system as small businesses grapple with higher costs after last year's Budget. FSB policy chair Tina McKenzie said: 'This creeping change is really limiting growth among small businesses. This shift in how the VOA works needs to be addressed immediately. 'We want to work with Government to create a fair business rates framework that makes sure small firms in shared spaces remain eligible for SBRR, a lifeline for many. We need to be providing all the tools available to revitalise and create thriving high streets.' Business rates, which are a levy based on the value of a commercial property, are a major point of contention between businesses and Rachel Reeves. Many are nervously waiting to see what the Chancellor announces on business rates in the Budget on November 26. She is set to axe another Covid-era business rates relief for retail, hospitality, and leisure properties. This currently offers 40 per cent relief up to a cash limit of 110,000 per business. She is poised to replace this relief and confirm controversial reforms that will see larger shops taxed more in order to pay for lower bills for small firms. The Treasury was contacted for comment. Here's the latest on local gunfire and a deadly spate of violence in the urban core as homicide numbers continue to trend higher than last year. Check the first report . . . Homicide 5200 block of Winner This evening around 11:15PM officers were dispatched to the 5200 block of Winner Rd. on a reported sound of shots. While canvassing the area, officers located security personnel who advised a shooting had occurred and directed officers to a crime scene. While officers were on scene, dispatch advised an adult male shooting victim was transported to an area hospital by private conveyance and subsequently pronounced deceased. An additional adult male shooting victim arrived at a separate hospital in stable condition. Preliminary investigations indicates an interaction between a group of individuals took place and escalated to gunfire. The number of people involved is currently unknown. Homicide detectives and crime scene personnel have responded to the scene to begin gathering evidence and collecting witness statements. This incident is being investigated as a homicide and is ongoing at this time. A subject of interest has not been identified at this time and no one is in custody. If anyone was in or around the area at this time and saw or heard anything they are asked to contact Homicide detectives directly at 816-234-5043 or the TIPS Hotline anonymously at 816-474-TIPS there is a reward of up to $25,000 for information submitted anonymously to the TIPS hotline. We are committed to assisting victims of violent crimes through use of Missouris Protection Program for Victims/Witnesses of Violent Crime. Funding for temporary, or even permanent relocation, may be available but is subject to pre-approval by the States administering agency. We are working with Partners for Peace in all our homicide investigations to monitor risks for retaliation and provide social services to affected residents. ########## Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com link . . . Developing . . . BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 28. The Azerbaijani Army launched a counter-offensive operation, later called the "Iron Fist", on September 27, 2020, in response to the large-scale provocation of the Armenian armed forces along the frontline. The 44-day second Karabakh war ended with the liberation of Azerbaijans territories from nearly 30-year Armenian occupation and the restoration of territorial integrity. On the initiative of UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, a meeting through videoconferencing was held between him and President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev on September 28, 2020. President Ilham Aliyev provided information about the military provocation committed by Armenia against Azerbaijan yesterday. He noted that on 27 September, Armenia used heavy artillery to fire on the positions of the Azerbaijani Armed Forces and settlements located along the line of contact. As a result of the attack, Azerbaijani civilians and servicemen were killed. The Azerbaijani side is conducting a successful counter-offensive operation in self-defense. The head of state emphasized that this was not the first time the Armenian side had committed a military provocation. In particular, the occupying country perpetrated a similar provocation on the Azerbaijani-Armenian border in July this year and then, in August, an Armenian sabotage group attempted to cross the line of contact. At the same time, Armenia is illegally resettling foreign nationals from other countries in the occupied territories of Azerbaijan, which represents a flagrant violation of international law under the Geneva Convention. The President of Azerbaijan also noted that the Armenian prime minister had created armed groups of volunteers consisting of tens of thousands of civilians who were being forced to take part in military operations against Azerbaijan. During the conversation, President Ilham Aliyev said he had talked about Armenia's preparations for a new war in his speech at the general debates of the 75th session of the UN General Assembly. The head of state said that the Armenian leadership was deliberately disrupting the negotiations. The statement of the Armenian leadership that "Nagorno-Karabakh is Armenia" dealt a serious blow to the talks. The statement that "Azerbaijan should hold talks with Nagorno-Karabakh" is an attempt to change the format of the talks, which is also unacceptable, as confirmed by the leadership of the Minsk Group. President Ilham Aliyev said that the Armenia-Azerbaijan Nagorno-Karabakh conflict should be resolved only within the framework of international law and the territorial integrity of Azerbaijan, on the basis of relevant UN Security Council resolutions calling for an immediate, unconditional and complete withdrawal of Armenian forces from the occupied territories. During the conversation, the sides also recalled the Special Session of the UN General Assembly in response to COVID-19 initiated by Azerbaijan, and the head of state thanked the UN Secretary-General for supporting this initiative. President Ilham Aliyev noted that Azerbaijan would continue to spare no efforts in the international arena to combat COVID-19. The issues related to the prospects for cooperation between Azerbaijan and the UN were also discussed during the meeting in a videoconference format. BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 29. Azerbaijan made a statement during the discussion of agenda item 5 of the UN Human Rights Council, Trend reports. "As we mark the 80th anniversary of the United Nations, Azerbaijan reaffirms its commitment to constructive dialogue and cooperation with the UN human rights bodies and mechanisms. We are proud to be among the few countries fully up-to-date with our treaty reporting obligations, which reflects our strong commitment to transparency and accountability. We attach great importance to the work of the special procedures mandate holders. Their activities must be conducted strictly within their mandates, in full respect of international law, the UN Charter, relevant resolutions, and the Code of Conduct. Constructive engagement with Member States is vital, and information provided by States should be duly taken into account in a spirit of cooperation. Azerbaijan firmly believes that genuine dialogue with human rights mechanisms can foster better understanding and strengthen the effectiveness of the system. We will continue to engage actively with the UN human rights machinery as part of our broader efforts to promote and protect human rights. As we reflect on eight decades of the United Nations, we should redouble our efforts to ensure that human rights mechanisms are effective, transparent, and free from politicization and double standards, thereby advancing our collective commitment to the promotion and protection of human rights worldwide," the statement reads. AGHDAM, Azerbaijan, September 28. Remembrance Day was marked in Azerbaijan's Aghdam city with a community tree-planting initiative, Trends Karabakh bureau reports. Employees of the Special Representation of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan in Aghdam, Fuzuli, and Khojavend districts, staff from the Construction and Management Service in the same districts, residents, schoolchildren, and representatives of companies operating in Aghdam participated in the event. Together, they planted 100 cypress trees in the district's Sarijali village to honor the memory of those who sacrificed their lives for the country. BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 28. A Turkish Airlines aircraft operating the Ashgabat Istanbul route requested an emergency landing at Heydar Aliyev International Airport due to a sudden health issue experienced by one of the passengers onboard, Trend reports. The Airbus A321 safely landed at Baku Airport at 08:30 local time. Immediate medical assistance was provided to the passenger at the airport, and their condition is currently under medical supervision. Heydar Aliyev International Airport remains committed to the highest international standards of aviation safety and emergency response, ensuring reliable support for airlines and passengers in any extraordinary situation. BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 29. On Thursday, September 25, Latvia signed a memorandum of understanding with German defense industry leader Rheinmetall AG to build an artillery ammunition plant in Latvia, Trend reports. The signing ceremony was attended by Latvian Prime Minister Evika Silina, Minister of Economics Viktors Valainis, State Defense Corporation (VAK) board member Ingrida Kirse, and representatives of Rheinmetall. The project will be implemented through a joint venture and is expected to attract more than 200 million euros in investment. Over the next decade, the plants exports could exceed 3 billion euros. Construction is scheduled to begin in spring 2026, with production planned to start the following year. Earlier this week, the Latvian government approved the project as part of its strategy to strengthen the defense industry. Prime Minister Evika Silina emphasized that the agreement reflects Latvias consistent investment in both national security and allied cooperation. This partnership with Rheinmetall allows us to bring in hundreds of millions of euros in investment, create new jobs, and provide Latvian companies with access to cutting-edge technologies. It strengthens not only our economy but also our national security and NATOs collective defense, Silina said. Latvia is deliberately developing the defense industry as a key part of the economy. This means new investment, high-value jobs, and technology transfer that benefits our entire economy. Our companies gain the opportunity to integrate into international supply chains and become part of Europes modern defense ecosystem, Minister of Economics Viktors Valainis highlighted the broader economic impact. Defense Minister Andris Spruds stressed the strategic importance of the project, while VAK board member Ingrida Kirse underlined the responsibility entrusted to the State Defense Corporation, pointing to the combination of Latvias national priorities and Rheinmetalls long-standing industrial expertise as the foundation for a strong partnership. The project follows on from Latvias first major defense industry initiative, the ROLLO modular artillery propellant charge assembly facility. Both projects aim to strengthen Latvias industrial base, foster innovation, and deepen integration into the European defense sector. The memorandum was signed during a major Latvian business delegation visit to Germany, led by Prime Minister Silina and Minister Valainis. The mission, involving more than 180 companies and organizations, highlights the growing economic and security ties between Latvia and Germany, combining science, business, and defense industry cooperation. The trade mission will continue in Rostock on September 2526 as part of the LatviaGermany Business Day, which brings together more than 250 participants to discuss issues related to the development of energy, digitalization, infrastructure, and the defense industry. Earlier this year, the Latvian government approved the Defense Industry and Innovation Support Strategy 20252036, which allocates more than 200 million euros for defense industry development, including business incubation, R&D, product deployment, and large-scale investment projects. Uzbekistans economy gains traction with increasing Azerbaijani tourist flow Photo: National Statistics Committee Uzbekistan has seen a notable increase in visits from Azerbaijani citizens in the first seven months of 2025, reflecting growing tourism and closer ties between the two countries. Data from the National Statistics Committee show a significant rise compared to the same period last year, with travelers visiting for leisure, official business, family, and other purposes. Access to paid information is limited If You already have a account, please log in Login Register BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 28. Deputy Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development of Georgia, Inga Phaladze, met with members of a Mongolian delegation to discuss opportunities for cooperation in the energy sector, Trend reports. Phaladze highlighted Georgias progress in energy sector reforms since joining the European Energy Community in 2017. She noted achievements in liberalizing the electricity market and emphasized the importance of the planned Black Sea undersea cable project, which will connect Georgias grid to the European Union and strengthen the countrys role as both an exporter and transit hub for electricity. The deputy minister also underlined the significance of major investment projects for enhancing Georgias energy security and overall sector development. The Mongolian delegation, led by Yerden Ulzii Batmankh, Acting State Secretary of the Ministry of Energy, expressed strong interest in deepening cooperation with Georgia. The group included representatives of Mongolias parliament, energy ministry, regulatory commission, and grid operators. During their visit, organized by the Asian Development Bank, the delegation held meetings with Georgias energy regulator, the state grid company, the electricity market operator, the Georgian Energy Exchange, Energo-Pro Georgia, and the Georgian Energy Development Fund. BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 20. The volume of trade between Azerbaijan and China amounted to $2.9 billion in the period from January through August 2025. The data obtained by Trend from the country's State Statistics Committee indicates that this is $650.2 million, or 28.4 percent, more than the same period of 2024. Over the reporting period, trade turnover with China accounted for 9.16 percent of Azerbaijan's total trade turnover. Thus, China ranked fourth among the countries with which Azerbaijan conducted the largest number of trade operations for the reporting period. Azerbaijan exported $60.1 million worth of goods to China from January through August of this year. This is $46.8 million, or 4.5 times more than the same period last year. At the same time, over the reporting period, Azerbaijan imported goods worth approximately $2.9 billion from China, which is $603.4 million, or 26.5 percent, more than the same period in 2024. Thus, China ranked first among the countries from which Azerbaijan imported the most products during the reporting period. Azerbaijan conducted trade operations with foreign countries worth $32.1 billion from January through August 2025. This is $1.1 billion, or 3.6 percent, more than the same period last year. Of the foreign trade turnover, $17.06 billion was exports and $15.05 billion was imports. Compared to the same period last year, exports decreased by $1.1 billion, or 6.4 percent, while imports increased by $2.2 billion, or 17.9 percent. Consequently, foreign trade resulted in a positive balance of $2.013 billion, which is $3.4 billion, or 2.7 times less than the annual figure. BAKU, Azerbaijan, September 28. The Foreign Ministry of the Islamic Republic of Iran considers the action taken by the three European countries the UK, Germany, and France plus the US, misusing the dispute resolution mechanism outlined in the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) and UN Security Council Resolution 2231 to reinstate previously terminated resolutions against Iran, as illegal and unjustified, Trend reports. It emphasizes that Resolution 2231 and its associated restrictions on Irans peaceful nuclear program must be deemed concluded by the scheduled date of October 18, 2025. The three European countries, under US pressure and provocation, initiated the so-called Snapback mechanism despite their own persistent and significant failure to fulfill JCPOA commitments, amounting to a gross non-performance, and have exploited the dispute resolution process. Meanwhile, they have flagrantly violated international law and the non-proliferation regime, particularly Article 2(4) of the UN Charter by explicitly or implicitly supporting military aggression by Israel and the US against Irans peaceful nuclear facilities governed under the JCPOA and the IAEA safeguards regime. These actions constitute clear breaches of both the JCPOA and Resolution 2231. Like the US, the European parties have acted in bad faith, consistently violating the letter and spirit of the JCPOA and making no genuine effort to resolve disputes. The attempt to revive terminated resolutions is not only legally baseless and indefensible, but also ethically and logically unacceptable. The Islamic Republic of Irans peaceful nuclear program was comprehensively addressed in Resolution 2231 and its annex, the JCPOA, and the ten-year timeframe stipulated therein must be considered concluded on October 18, 2025. The three European countries failed to adhere to the provisions of UN Security Council Resolution 2231 during their pursuit of this issue. Operational Paragraph 11 of Resolution 2231 clearly states that the Security Council must take into account the views of the relevant states. It is regrettable that, despite the clear positions of other JCPOA members specifically Iran, China, and the Russian Federation the Council President, under pressure from the European trio and the US, illegally put the draft resolution to a vote. As emphasized in the joint letter by the foreign ministers of China, Iran, and Russia dated August 28, 2025, the Security Council cannot act based on the flawed notification submitted by the three European countries. Any action contrary to or inconsistent with Resolution 2231 cannot create legal obligations for UN member states. Accordingly, the Islamic Republic of Iran rejects the claim by the three European countries and the US regarding the reinstatement of past resolutions that were terminated under Resolution 2231 in 2015. Iran stresses that no obligations arise for UN member states, including the Islamic Republic of Iran, under the provisions or mechanisms of the annulled resolutions, and all countries must refrain from recognizing this unlawful situation that contradicts Resolution 2231. The Islamic Republic of Irans principled position on this matter has been formally conveyed in a letter dated September 27, 2025 to the UN Secretary-General. It is worth recalling that over the past two decades, the Islamic Republic of Iran has repeatedly demonstrated its commitment to dialogue and diplomacy in resolving issues related to its peaceful nuclear program. Iran has shown readiness to find a rational and fair solution that guarantees the rights and interests of the Iranian people in the peaceful use of nuclear energy, while also ensuring transparency and confidence in the peaceful nature of its nuclear activities. In this regard, Iran fully implemented the JCPOA provisions from 2015 to 2019 up to one year after the unlawful US withdrawal and structured its remedial measures under Articles 26 and 36 of the JCPOA from May 2019 in a way that would allow for an immediate return to its commitments if the European parties and the US resumed theirs. Over the past four years, Iran has also presented numerous initiatives and proposals for the full reimplementation of JCPOA obligations by all parties, or for negotiating a new understanding to resolve the issues surrounding its nuclear program. All such efforts have failed due to the lack of seriousness and good faith on the part of the three European countries and the US. Military attacks by Israel and the US on Irans nuclear facilities between 13th and 24th of June 2025, and the accompanying support of three European countries for the aggressors, mark the peak of their gross JCPOA violations and clear bad faith. Undoubtedly, the criminal act of military aggression against Iran, which resulted in the martyrdom and injury of numerous Iranian citizens, the destruction of nuclear facilities, and damage to vital national infrastructure, not only entails criminal responsibility for the perpetrators and masterminds of the crime, but also imposes international responsibility on the aggressor parties for committing internationally wrongful acts. The Islamic Republic of Iran will utilize all available legal instruments to prosecute and punish the perpetrators and to seek compensation. Over the past two months, the Islamic Republic of Iran has made significant efforts to prevent the misuse of the JCPOAs dispute resolution mechanism by the three European countries. These efforts included signing of an understanding with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) on September 9, 2025 and submitting constructive and rational proposals regarding this and other issues related to Irans nuclear program. However, these initiatives failed due to the disregard and excessive demands of the three European countries and the US. In reality, instead of creating the necessary space for diplomacy and engagement, the three European countries and the US have chosen a path of confrontation and crisis escalation. They mistakenly believe that by resorting to the tactic of reviving annulled UN Security Council resolutions, they can gain a new leverage of pressure. The Islamic Republic of Iran will firmly defend the rights and national interests of Iran, and any move aimed at harming those interests will be met with an appropriate and resolute response. It's worth noting that last night, the UN Security Council held a meeting to consider the initial text of Resolution 2231, sponsored by Russia and China, on extending the resolution and preventing the activation of the snapback mechanism. Four countries voted in favor of the resolution, nine voted against, and two abstained. Thus, as of September 28, UN Security Council resolutions against Iran have been reinstated. It should be added that on July 20, 2015, the UN Security Council adopted Resolution 2231. This resolution led to the repeal of six previous resolutions against Iran and extensive sanctions related to the Iranian nuclear program. It should be noted that, according to Articles 36 and 37 of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, various stages are initiated upon a complaint by one of the participating states regarding the plan's violation by the other party. If these stages are unsuccessful, the complaining state may raise the issue with the UN Security Council. If Iran's complaint is filed and accepted by the UN Security Council, international sanctions against Iran may be reinstated. Furthermore, this plan grants UN Security Council members the authority to take military action against Iran. Welcome Guest! You are here: Home TN probes as 39 killed in Actor Vijays Karur rally Tamil Nadu has announced a commission to investigate what went wrong at actor Vijays rally in Karur that killed 39 and injured over 100 others. Sunday September 28, 2025 11:37 AM , ummid.com with inputs from Agencies Chennai: Tamil Nadu has announced a commission to investigate what went wrong at actor Vijays rally in Karur that killed 39 and injured over 100 others. Filmstar Vijay had launched a political party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), back in 2024. He had called a rally in Karur Saturday September 27, 2025 in a bid to kickstart his partys campaign ahead of the Tamil Nadu State Elections early next year. However, the rally turned out to be a disaster for those present as a stampede like situation at the venue left as many as 39 people dead and over 100 others injured. What Caused the Stampede? In a late evening press conference Saturday, Tamil Nadu Director General of Police G Venkataraman said the permission for the rally was sought from 03:00 PM to 10:00 PM. However, it was announced on the partys X handle that Actor Vijay will come at 12:00 PM. Following the crowds started gathering in Karur from 11:00 AM, he said. The actor arrived at around 07:00 PM after a 7 hour delay. By this time a huge crowd had gathered there, he said. The DG Police also said that around 10,000 people attended the partys earlier rallies. However on Saturday there were more than 25,000 people. The people lacked sufficient food and water under the hot sun, he said, adding, It was too early to say what exactly triggered the stampede. Commission Formed Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Stalin has announced the formation of a Commission headed by retired judge Aruna Jagadeesan to probe whether the police underestimated the scale of the rally or Vijay's delayed arrival was a deliberate tactic to amplify crowds, a miscalculation that ended in one of Tamil Nadu's worst political rally disasters. Meanwhile, the Tamil Nadu Police have filed cases against actor Vijays close aide N Anand and two other party functionaries. N Anand, former MLA from Puducherry, is TVK General Secretary. Along with him, TVK Joint General Secretary CT Nirmal Kumar, the party's Karur West District Secretary Mathiyazhagan and 3 others have also been named in the police case. In a related development, extra security has been deployed at actor Vijays home in Chennai fearing backlash and public anger, sources said. Follow ummid.com WhatsApp Channel for all the latest updates. Select Language to Translate in Urdu, Hindi, Marathi or Arabic Ramadan 2026 likely starts on Feb 18, Eid 2026 on March 20 Ramadan, the Holy Month of Fasting, this year i.e. 1447 AH corresponding to 2026 AD, is likely to commence on Wednesday February 18, 2026 in Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar and other Arab States Monday September 29, 2025 1:03 AM , ummid.com News Network Ramadan 2026 (1447 AH): Ramadan, the Holy Month of Fasting, this year i.e. 1447 AH corresponding to 2026 AD, is likely to commence on Wednesday February 18, 2026 in Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar and other Arab States. Ramadan 2026, Eid 2026 Date in Saudi Arabia According to Ummul Qura Calendar, the New Moon of Ramadan, the Holy Month of Fasting in the year 1447 AH, is likely to sight on February 17, 2026 which is 29th of the month of Sha'ban 1447 AH. If the Ramadan Moon is sighted on February 17, Ramadan 2026 will begin on Wednesday February 18, 2026. If the new moon is not sighted on February 17, then February 18 will be counted as Sha'ban 1447 AH, and fasting of the Holy Month Ramadan 2026 will start on Thursday February 19, 2026. Also Eid 2026 Moon will be sighted either on March 18 or 19, 2026. If the new moon is sighted on March 18 then Eid al Fitr 2026 will be celebrated on March 19. If the New Moon is not sighted on March 19, Eid 2026 will be marked on March 20, 2026, according o Ummul Qura Calendar. Ramadan 2026 start day in India, Pakistan On the other hand, Ramadan 2026 will begin and Eid al Fitr will be celebrated in India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and other South Asian countries a day later. Accordingly, Ramadan 2026 in the South Asian countries will start on February 19 or 20, 2026 and Eid al Fitr 2026 in these countries will most likely be celebrated on March 20 or 21, 2026, based on sighting of Ramadan and Eid moons. It should, however, be carefully noted and kept in mind that the exact start date and time of Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr celebrations will be confirmed by the Saudi Royal Court, religious authorities and Moon-sighting committees in UAE, Qatar, Morocco, Turkey, Bahrain, Jordan, Egypt, India, Pakistan and the respective countries. The announcement is made based on the Ramadan and Eid Moon Sighting which is the tradition of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). Ramadan 2026 in USA, UK The start of Ramadan and Eid al Fitr celebrations in America (USA), United Kingdom (UK), Australia, South Africa, France, Canada, Malaysia, India, New Zealand, Singapore, Russia, Nigeria, Sudan and other countries will also be decided by moon sighting committees and religious authorities in these countries. The likely date to start fasting of Ramadan and Eid al Fitr celebrations around the world, however, will be a day before or after February 18, 2026 and March 20, 2026 respectively. Eid al Fitr 2026 Holidays If Ramadan begins on February 18, 2025 and Eid al Fitr moon is sighted on March 19, 2026 then those living in Saudi Arabia are likely to have a long holiday from March 19 to 22, 2026. Eid al-Fitr is expected to be marked on the same date in UAE and other Arab countries, with a similar number of public holidays. The official Ramadan Eid Holidays will be announced after the start of the Holy Month. Extended Public Holidays are also announced for Muslims in Pakistan and Bangladesh. In countries like India, USA, UK, Australia, and South Africa one day off is given to those working in government and private sectors. It should be once again noted that the final and confirmed dates of Ramadan 2026 and Eid al Fitr will be announced only on 29th of Shaban 1447 AH. Follow ummid.com WhatsApp Channel for all the latest updates. Select Language to Translate in Urdu, Hindi, Marathi or Arabic Physicians who are also business owners have two jobs: treating patients and running their business. Hiring and keeping employees is one of the job descriptions of the latter. It is no surprise that choosing and maintaining employee benefits is not at the top of an exciting to-do list. Even if hospital systems are not your direct competition, they are often competing for the same employee pool as you, and hospitals generally have robust benefits. One of the most valuable and attractive benefits is the retirement plan. What is a retirement plan? Retirement plans can be distilled into two primary sections: Defined Contribution Plans and Defined Benefit Plans. These are jargon terms, but they are helpfully descriptive. If you want to focus on funding a plan and the end result (or the value of the retirement plan) is variable based on funding and performance of the investments, then a defined contribution plan is the way to go. If you want the end result of the retirement plan to consist of a specific dollar amount or a secured passive income stream, and you are OK with a variable contribution schedule, then a defined benefit plan is likely a good fit. Let us look at how each of these plans operate and review some examples. Defined contribution plans When you think of a retirement plan, you generally think of a defined contribution plan, such as a 401(k) or a 403(b). A defined contribution retirement plan creates accounts for employees and employers to fund to prepare for retirement. The most common retirement plan structure allows for a matching system, which means the employer funds the retirement account for the employee only if the employee funds it first. This type of structure can reduce costs in the plan as some employees may choose not to fund the retirement plan, and some retirement plans may require a minimum length of service before the employee is eligible to fund a retirement plan, limiting the cost of high employee turnover. Additionally, vesting schedules can be added, which determine how long an employee must work for an employer before the matching contributions become theirs. The 401(k) and 403(b) Some of the most common defined contribution retirement plans are the 401(k) and the 403(b). These plans have annually determined limits for employee deferral contributions ($23,500 for 2025) and annual limitations for total contributions ($69,000 for 2025). The total contribution limitations include employee deferred (or Roth) contributions, employer matching or profit-sharing contributions, and after-tax employee contributions. The primary difference between the 401(k) and the 403(b) is the type of company for which the retirement plan is used. 401(k)s are available to for-profit companies, while 403(b)s are available to nonprofit and governmental entities. In essence, 401(k) and 403(b) plans are incredibly flexible. They can incorporate traditional and Roth contributions, offer loans, customize vesting schedules, and design specific employer match structures. They can be as simple or complex as needed. These plans are available for large employers as well as solo business owners. IRAs Defined contribution retirement plans also include some employer-sponsored IRAs, such as SIMPLE IRAs and SEP IRAs. An IRA is an Individual Retirement Account (or Arrangement). Unlike a 401(k) or a 403(b), an IRA is an account that is individually owned, so any funds (including employer contributions and matching) belong to the employee immediately. SIMPLE IRAs SIMPLE (Savings Incentive Match Plan for Employees) IRAs are useful for employers with a smaller headcount of employees and do not mind manually funding the accounts. SIMPLE IRAs are generally inexpensive to manage, but they do need a person to manage them. SIMPLE IRAs are a great fit for small companies on a benefits budget. SIMPLE IRAs have lower contribution limits ($16,500 for 2025), and streamlined matching options (generally two to three percent). SEP IRAs SEP (Simplified Employee Pension) IRAs are also very easy and inexpensive to manage. SEP IRAs are funded by employers only, meaning an employee cannot make their own contributions. An employer can fund up to twenty-five percent of her salary into a SEP IRA, up to $69,000 annually. If she funds her SEP IRA at twenty-five percent, then she needs to fund every employees account at the same percentage of their salaries. SEP IRAs are most commonly used for business owners or contractors without employees. Choices, choices, choices Defined contribution retirement plans have many different plans to choose from. This abundance of choice allows the business owner to fit the retirement plan to their business. Conversely, defined benefit retirement plans do not have many choices of plans. Instead, there are essentially two types: defined benefit retirement plans and cash balance plans. Defined benefit plans For those businesses (even business owners without employees) with predictable income that think the $69,000 annual contribution limit is too low, the defined benefit plan might be a good alternative. A defined benefit plan flips the traditional 401(k) upside-down. A traditional retirement plan gets funded, adds market performance, and results in an accumulated account balance. A defined benefit plan, on the other hand, assesses the desired ending account balance, accounts for market performance, and then determines what kind of contribution is needed to be successful. A defined benefit plan sets an account goal and works backwards. For younger employees, the contributions will be relatively cheap since the employee has a long time to allow the market performance to accumulate to the desired ending balance. For older employees, the contributions can be extraordinarily high, up to $280,000. For businesses with high cash flow, an owner nearing retirement, and the desire for significant tax deductions, defined benefit retirement plans are a welcomed conversation. The goal of a defined benefit retirement plan is to accumulate a pre-calculated amount of money to provide mailbox money, or a sustained income flow in retirement. Because they can be complicated to manage, defined benefit plans are less commonly used, but when they fit, they are extremely effective. Cash balance plans Cash balance plans are a combination of defined benefit and defined contribution retirement plans. A cash balance plan is a retirement plan that calculates the funding like a defined benefit retirement plan, but the outcome of the account is variable like a defined contribution plan. Cash balance plans are useful if a defined benefit plan is desired, but the plan needs to be less strict than a traditional defined benefit retirement plan. Defined benefit plans can become onerous to manage, so if there comes a time when it makes sense to simplify a defined benefit plan, converting to a cash balance plan can be a relief. Cash balance plans are a great way to achieve large deductible retirement plan contributions without the administrative rigors of a traditional defined benefit plan. What will you choose? Choosing a retirement plan for a medical clinic is an important task, and there is no shortage of options available. Physician businesses range from solo business owners to clinics with dozens of employees to multi-state mega hospital systems. What works for one medical practice does not always translate to another. Paul Morton is a certified financial planner. Subscribe to The Podcast by KevinMD. Watch on YouTube. Catch up on old episodes! Physician-scientist Diego R. Hijano discusses his article How humor builds trust in pediatric oncology. Diego shares how personal loss and his own cultural and linguistic experiences shaped his approach to care, teaching him that laughter can be a bridge in even the darkest hospital rooms. Through stories of playful exchanges with children, language slips, and inside jokes with families, he explains how humor softens fear, restores humanity, and strengthens the patient-physician relationship. Drawing inspiration from Danny Thomas and the legacy of St. Jude Childrens Research Hospital, Diego emphasizes that presence, not perfection, is what patients remember most. Listeners will gain insight into how humor can serve as both a clinical tool and a personal anchor, reminding physicians that healing extends beyond medicine. Our presenting sponsor is Microsoft Dragon Copilot. Microsoft Dragon Copilot, your AI assistant for clinical workflow, is transforming how clinicians work. Now you can streamline and customize documentation, surface information right at the point of care, and automate tasks with just a click. Part of Microsoft Cloud for Healthcare, Dragon Copilot offers an extensible AI workspace and a single, integrated platform to help unlock new levels of efficiency. Plus, its backed by a proven track record and decades of clinical expertise, and its built on a foundation of trust. Its time to ease your administrative burdens and stay focused on what matters most with Dragon Copilot, your AI assistant for clinical workflow. VISIT SPONSOR https://aka.ms/kevinmd SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST https://www.kevinmd.com/podcast RECOMMENDED BY KEVINMD https://www.kevinmd.com/recommended Transcript Kevin Pho: Hi, and welcome to the show. Subscribe at KevinMD.com/podcast. Today we welcome Diego R. Hijano. Hes a pediatric infectious disease physician. Todays KevinMD article is How humor builds trust in pediatric oncology. Diego, welcome to the show. Diego R. Hijano: Thank you so much for having me, Kevin. Kevin Pho: All right, so lets start by briefly sharing your story and journey, and then we could jump into your KevinMD article. ADVERTISEMENT Diego R. Hijano: Yeah. Thank you. So, as you said, Im a pediatric infectious disease physician. Im originally from Argentina in South America. I grew up in a small city on the Atlantic coast, so I had a great upbringing. But as I was heading out to medical school, I lost my parents in a car accident. That led to very difficult times during medical school. My older brother took over; he was in law school and my younger sister was finishing high school. So you could imagine three teenagers found in that situation. But a lot of people always say we were sort of built to face that situation. We were independent, and my family was very supportive, obviously. So I ended up going back to medical school right after the accident, finished, and decided to go into pediatrics. I didnt know that ID was going to be my specialty, as I had always thought of adult medicine. Pediatrics was completely out of my radar, but I completely fell in love with it. I completed my residency there in Argentina in a big pediatric hospital and had an opportunity to experience some research during residency from a nonprofit organization in Buenos Aires. I felt like that was a really cool way of practicing medicine and impacting more patients. I got an opportunity through them to come to the U.S. So in 2011, I moved with my wife, a two-year-old daughter, and a three-month-old baby to Nashville, Tennessee. I spent a few years in Nashville, did all my steps, and then ended up coming to St. Jude for my fellowship. Im now a faculty member that does mostly transplant ID here at St. Jude. Kevin Pho: All right, so your KevinMD article is titled How humor builds trust in pediatric oncology. For those who didnt get a chance to read your article, tell us what its about. Diego R. Hijano: Yeah. So, you can notice I have an accent. When I came to the U.S. and started practicing, I noticed that a lot of stories were coming out from encounters with patients where I would say a word and they would understand something different. So I would always open up with my last name. Its very difficult for people here; they say Hijano, Hino. So I say, Im Dr. Hijano, but I go by Dr. Diego, like Go, Diego, Go!, Doras cousin. Its fading away now where people are not that familiar with *Dora the Explorer* and Diego, but over the years most people would relate to that. And everyone would laugh and it would be an icebreaker. People would remember the name. That connection to me was very important. So I started telling these stories to colleagues, like, This is how I introduce myself and completely change the environment. Or, you know, one time I was rounding late at night. The tongue is a muscle, so it gets tired. I was with a family, and as I was introducing myself, I said, Im Diego, and I have this baby shower with me And they were just like, What? You are talking about a baby shower? And so everyone was laughing out loud. These stories, every time I tell them, resonate with people. So I figured it was time to try to put them all together and share it with the rest of the community. Kevin Pho: So you obviously, like you said, work at St. Jude Childrens Research Hospital, and thats a place where the sickest children from around the world go to. And these families are under a tremendous amount of stress, of course. So tell us how these small moments of humor help you build connection with these patients and families. Diego R. Hijano: Yeah, thats very important. We obviously have a workplace where kids die every day because of their disease, no matter how much you do. Throughout the journey of chemotherapy and transplant, there are a lot of ups and downs. I think we come to a place where we know that sometimes there is nothing to do, or we just dont have anything to offer but our presence and our connection. Sometimes these moments, that most of the time were unintended, and now I do them more intentionally, were really a chance for families to also relax and release some of that tension by being able to laugh at their doctor or with their doctor from funny stories or things that were more personal. So this connection of showing that we are vulnerable and that we can laugh at ourselves and make mistakes has really come a long way in families seeing me as like, Oh, you know, hes a regular guy just like me. And this was funny, and that releases some tension and takes you out from that heavy moment that you are going through with your kid being so sick. Kevin Pho: Now, have you always been like that from a personality standpoint? Have you always had that personality where you would find humor in more situations? Or is this something that you said that was more intentional? Diego R. Hijano: Yeah, so I reflected a lot on this because certainly during medical school and pediatric residency following the accident with my parents, I was pretty angry for a long time. People would define me as, Either people love you because you are great and super supportive, or people are afraid of you. So I would have this sort of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde situation. I think by encountering patients and going through these situations, it sort of reflected on, This is who I used to be, and this is who I want to be. I dont need to be that angry person or that sort of person that just goes through the day without engaging. It was a way to also connect back to what my true self is, which is someone that can reach out and be humble and say, Yeah, this is who you get as a doctor and Im not perfect, but Im here for you. Kevin Pho: And I think that point is really important. Showing sometimes that vulnerability and showing that human side of you, especially at a place like St. Jude, and as you mentioned, these patients are among the sickest in the world, can help with that connection with patients. Thats showing your humanity. Diego R. Hijano: Yeah, absolutely. Kevin Pho: Now, what advice do you give to clinicians who may feel a little bit hesitant about using humor because theyre afraid of saying the wrong thing? As you know, we live in a society where sometimes if you do say the wrong thing, youre going to get punished for it. So what do you say for those physicians for whom humor does not come naturally? Diego R. Hijano: So I think I start by sharing personal stories. We all have a story to tell and I always talk to trainees and young faculty, You have a story. Youve come a long way. You are from somewhere. You grew up somewhere and you had your parents or not. So just tell a story of something that is relevant to whats happening. Just go ahead and share that with them. Thats the first step. And humor may not come out of it, but the connection will be there. Just sharing something personal. So at the end of the day, for me, humor is a way of connecting because of my accent and my nationality and ethnicity. But sometimes I connect with patients through storytelling. You know, with COVID vaccines, it was a huge deal where people were so afraid. And I would say, Last week, I took my daughter through a drive-through and she got her vaccine because now she was eligible. These were her concerns and these were my concerns as a parent, and this is how we discussed it. So sometimes, even beyond humor, start by just being authentic, being you, and telling them something about you that they may not know. It could be your favorite ice cream flavor or what you like to do on the weekend. It just has to be something personal. Kevin Pho: In your article, you talk about Danny Thomas and his vision for St. Jude. So how does his legacy influence your daily practice as a physician? Diego R. Hijano: To me, it was a serendipity moment when I was writing about all this and how I ended up working in a place thats so special, but also started by a comedian who understood that laughter was a way of getting together, of healing us. He obviously has a very rich ancestry and has been able to multiculturally put this place together in Memphis. So to me hes a great inspiration of not only what you can accomplish, but whats important, which is we want to make people feel better. So no matter what, they may not remember you, and thats not the point. They will remember how you made them feel. So just do your best to make people feel better, and you cannot go wrong with that. Kevin Pho: We are talking to Diego R. Hijano. He is a pediatric infectious disease physician. Todays KevinMD article is How humor builds trust in pediatric oncology. Diego, lets end with some take-home messages for the KevinMD audience. Diego R. Hijano: Well, I think the most important thing for me is that in a world where everyone is seeking perfection and everyone is looking at the little details of where you are missing it to call you out, just get rid of that burden. We dont need perfection. We just need to be present. And in this day and age where everyone is multitasking and doing so many things, for us as physicians, entering a patients room is a sacred space. Its the one place where its about the patient. So take advantage of that moment, be present and be yourself, and tell your story. Dont seek perfection. Kevin Pho: There you go. Thank you so much for sharing your perspective and insight. Thanks again for coming on the show. Diego R. Hijano: Thank you so much for having me. It was a pleasure. A raft of UN sanctions on Iran over its nuclear program, lifted under a landmark 2015 deal, went back into force late Saturday. The sanctions were reimposed because the "E3" European group -- Britain, France and Germany -- triggered a mechanism in the deal alleging Tehran was not meeting its obligations. Here are some key facts about the so-called "snapback" process: - What do the sanctions target? - The sanctions target companies, organizations and individuals that contribute directly or indirectly to Iran's nuclear program or the development of its ballistic missiles. Providing necessary equipment, expertise, or funding are all grounds for sanctions. - Swath of the economy affected - The sanctions include an embargo on conventional weapons with the prohibition of any sale or transfer of arms to Iran. Imports, exports or transfers of parts and technologies related to the nuclear and ballistic program will be prohibited. The assets of entities and individuals abroad belonging to Iranian persons or groups linked to the nuclear program will be frozen. Individuals designated as participating in prohibited nuclear activities may be banned from traveling to UN member states. UN member states will be required to restrict access to banking and financial facilities that could help Iran's nuclear or ballistic programs. Anyone violating the sanctions regime could see their assets frozen worldwide. - The EU had its own sanctions - Separate measures by the European Union could now be reimposed alongside the core, global sanctions. Their goal was to hit the Iranian economy, not only to hamper nuclear activity but also to inflict fiscal pain to force Tehran to comply. Western nations fear Iran will acquire nuclear weapons. Tehran vehemently denies seeking such weapons while defending its right to develop a nuclear program for civilian purposes. The United States already imposes its own sanctions, including ones to prohibit other countries from buying Iranian oil, after President Donald Trump withdrew from the nuclear deal in his first term. - How does 'snapback' take effect? - The "snapback" process reactivates UN resolutions, but their practical implementation requires UN member states to update their laws to comply. It will be up to the EU and Britain to pass legislation so that the sanctions can be enforced, but neither has given details on that process. - How are sanctions enforced? - The UN Security Council resolutions and the associated sanctions are binding -- but are regularly violated. The big question is whether countries like China and Russia, which consider the triggering of the "snapback" illegal, might decide not to comply. Some countries, including China, continued to trade with Iran despite the presence of US sanctions. The European powers expect Russia will not comply with the sanctions but are unclear about how China, which imports a significant amount of oil from Iran, might react. "There is a cost to circumventing sanctions, a political cost, but also a financial and economic cost because financial transactions become more expensive," said Clement Therme, an associate researcher at the International Institute for Iranian Studies linked to Sorbonne University. Shipping companies are one example of businesses that will feel the pinch. "In the case of UN sanctions, we probably won't see a full blockade, but rising costs instead," Therme added. dt-gw/sct/cl/mjw/acb/jgc Service of Remembrance University Hospital Waterford Maternity Service would like to invite you to a service of remembrance. All who have experienced pregnancy, infant or child loss are welcome to attend on Sunday, October 19, at 4pm in Christchurch Cathedral. Benefit Night in aid of Waterford Hospice There will be a benefit night held in aid of Waterford Hospice on Saturday, October 25, in the Tower Hotel. Admission 15, doors will open at 7.30pm. Benefit night from 8-12pm. Auction and raffle on the night followed by Mike Kennys 60s and 90s disco. Tickets on sale in Ardkeen Stores or for more information contact Frankie on 087 3734398. An Afternoon of Elegance in aid of Waterford Hospice Tickets now on sale for our Afternoon of Elegance in aid of Waterford Hospice in Faithlegg House Hotel on Sunday, October 5. Enjoy the latest looks from Janelle boutique and The Ladys Slip lingerie modelled by Prima Models. End the evening with music by Waterford band Scathach. Tickets are limited. Bereavement The death sadly occurred on Thursday, September 25, of Thomas Power, Glenville, Dunmore Road, Waterford. Late of Waterford Crystal. Predeceased by his beloved wife Eileen, who also passed away on September 25, 2018, brother Andy and sister Nuala. He is survived by his loving children Olan, Stephen and David, daughters-in-law, Jean, Lois and Theresa, his grandchildren, Katie, Oscar, Sophie, Ted, Imogen and Scarlett, sisters Bridie and Kitty, and brothers Dan and John. Tom will be forever remembered by his nieces and nephews, relatives, the Kelly family, extended family, neighbours and friends. Thomas will be sadly missed by all his relatives, extended family, neighbours and friends. Requiem Mass took place on Tuesday, September 30, at 10.30am on arrival in St Joseph and St Benildus Church, Newtown, Waterford, followed by private cremation at the Island Crematorium. Condolences are extended to Thomas family, relatives and friends. May he rest in peace. Bereavement The death sadly occurred on Wednesday, September 17, in France of James (Jim) Sheridan, Orwell Road, Rathgar and late of Newtown, Waterford. He is survived by his loving wife Mary, adored children Lisa, Kieran, Ruth and Grace and his six beloved grandchildren Sadbh, Callum, Dara, Leon, James and Evelyn, sons-in-law Brian and John, daughter-in-law Sarah, brothers, sisters, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. James will be sadly missed by all his relatives, extended family and friends. Funeral Mass took place on Saturday, September 27, at 11am in the Church of Ss. Columbanus and Gall, Milltown, followed by burial at Kilternan Cemetery. Condolences are extended to James family, relatives and friends. May he rest in peace. Crohns and Colitis Ireland Marking World Stoma Day, Crohns and Colitis Ireland will host a webinar on living with a stoma for people with inflammatory bowel disease on Saturday, October 4, from 12pm to 1pm. The webinar will offer practical tips and advice on stoma care and maintaining emotional well-being. Register now at www.crohnscolitis.ie St. Joseph & Benildus Church A New Season Of Alpha is about to start. Why not join in commencing Thursday, October 2, at 7pm at Benildus Parish Centre for a duration of nine weeks. Alpha is a series of films and discussion about the meaning of life. For more info, please contact parishofficejbm@gmail.com/051 348077. Cuppa Agus Comhra Cuppa Agus Comhra has resumed: Chat as gaeilge over tea/coffee, on Thursdays 11am-12 noon in Benildus Parish Centre. All levels welcome, from liofa to cupla focal. Facilitated by Angeline. Book via Parish Office: 051 348077 or parishofficejbm@gmail.com Ardkeen Library Some of the events happening in Ardkeen Library. Contact Ardkeen library for bookings on 051 849755 or email ardkeenlibrary@waterfordcouncil.ie Food & Mood: Eating Well for Mental Wellness free talk with community food and nutrition worker Maria Chester on Wednesday, October 8, at 2pm in Ardkeen Library. Booking required. Active Ageing and Fall Prevention: Free talk on fall risk, how to prevent them and staying active as we age with physiotherapist Mairead Power on Thursday, October 9, at 11am in Ardkeen Library. Booking required. Newtown Piano Academy Lessons are held every Thursday morning in Waterford city - all levels, abilities and ages catered for. Contact Collette Kenny Brinza for further details on 086 8251028. Farronshoneen Youth Centre If you are living on the Williamstown or Dunmore Road area we have an all boys group running every Tuesday in Farronshoneen Youth Centre. If you are interested please don't hesitate to contact Nina on 086 7816269. Wyi Waterford Volunteers Needed September is the perfect time to make a difference, our youth projects, YDPs, and youth clubs are now recruiting volunteers and wed love you to join us. Just two hours a week can create a lasting impact in the lives of young people and your community. Call us today on 051 872710 or drop us an email at info@wstcys to find out more. Together, lets build brighter futures. Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Share 1 View all comments Toni Collettes best performances cross genres and decades, but theyre all characters who hide behind fronts steely faces, picture-perfect lives, twisted games. Maybe theyre social outcasts desperate to fit in, as with the Australian actors 1994 breakthrough role in Muriels Wedding. Maybe shes a mother terrified of her sons visions, trying not to let it show on her face, as with her Oscar-nominated role in The Sixth Sense. Or a woman with dissociative identity disorder, who swirls through seven alters (The United States of Tara, for which she won an Emmy). Or an artist diving deep into the dark well of grief and never emerging to face a horrific reality (Hereditary). Editor's pick Streaming Slow Horses launches Christopher Chungs life in the fast lane But none have been quite as devilish as Evelyn Wade, the leader of a secluded school for troubled teens at the centre of new Netflix mystery-thriller Wayward. Eerie and earthy in equal measure, Evelyns new-age charisma and cardigans obscure a ruthless need to exert control and break people down all under the guise of benevolence and self-actualisation. From under her wire-frame glasses, she oversees not just Tall Pines Academy but, unofficially, its namesake town, a small forest-eclipsed community in Virginia. Its a role that pulls from all of Collettes power as an actor. Evelyn is magnetic, with the same warmth and groundedness that makes Muriel Heslop so painfully real and pairs it with a stark darkness, one that is all the more chilling for the drop-off between the two masks. Advertisement Across Waywards eight episodes, Evelyn faces suspicion from Alex (creator Mae Martin), a cop who moves to Tall Pines with his pregnant wife, an Academy graduate. He soon makes contact with two of Tall Pines recent involuntary boarders/inmates who are desperate to escape. The shows been billed as a deeply personal project for Martin, inspired by their own wayward years as a teen in the early 2000s (also the shows time period), during which their best friend was sent to a troubled teen camp. This industry which includes therapeutic boarding schools, military-style boot camps and juvenile facilities has faced growing calls for regulation in the US due to allegations of child abuse, led in part by Paris Hilton, who was institutionalised at four separate schools as a teen. But Wayward dials up the cultish woo-woo element, making the show more conceptual than literal in its critique of this system. There are also many ideas under the hood. With Evelyn breaking down teens to build them into functional adults (cult members?), the academy is partially a metaphor for the brutal transition from adolescence to adult society. The show isnt exceptional; though there are some nice twists, its often a little unfocused and slow. But its a great acting exercise for Collette, and is worth watching for that alone. It also arrives during an interesting point in Collettes career, as the 52-year-old experiences a second wind carrying her towards more menacing fare after the smash success of 2018 psychological horror Hereditary. As the mother driven mad by grief in Hereditary. A24 Starring Collette as a mother driven mad by grief (and featuring screams you will never forget), the film director Ari Asters first was a major breakthrough for then-emerging zeitgeist film company A24, making a reported $US87 million ($132 million) on a modest $US10 million ($15 million) budget. Advertisement Since then, Collette has routinely been cast in tense crime dramas (Unbelievable, The Staircase, Juror #2) and psychological thrillers (Im Thinking of Ending Things, Nightmare Alley) or in satirical roles as a duplicitous, out-of-touch wealthy woman (Knives Out, Mickey 17). These all allow Collette to do what she does best, revealing cracks in complex characters, or playing a woman on the verge of breakdown/breakthrough (Clockwatchers, a scene-stealing moment in The Hours, surprisingly not-fluffy comedy In Her Shoes). As unlikely heroine Muriel Heslop in Muriels Wedding. But still, its a sharp shift from before Hereditary, where Collette would work across genre and actively against type. After the international success of Muriels Wedding, in which the previously unknown Collette was nominated for a Golden Globe, she turned down similar awkward-girl offers, such as Mira Sorvinos role in Romy and Micheles High School Reunion and the lead in Bridget Joness Diary. In the decades between, Collette zagged from period dramas (Emma) to arthouse musicals (Velvet Goldmine), Samuel L. Jackson-led actions (Shaft), off-kilt comedies (Connie and Carla) to heartwarming dramas (About A Boy, Little Miss Sunshine). Shes often chosen small but memorable roles, and tends to favour first-time, Australian and female directors occasionally all three at once, with Alethea Joness (unfortunately not great) Fun Mom Dinner. She offered depth to even the slimmest role and some, in the years between United States of Tara ending in 2011 and Hereditary, were pretty slim (do not watch Christmas horror Krampus!). Perhaps this moment of her career of playing malevolent and/or mysterious white women is offering a way to access meatier roles while theyre in-vogue even if repetitive in scope, especially as Collette enters her 50s, a time when offers for complex characters traditionally shrink. With Mark Ruffalo in Mickey 17. Advertisement Advertisement FoodSubstantial salads Hetty McKinnons anti-dinner party manifesto: Why salad is the new main event In her latest cookbook, the Australian food writer chucks out the rule book and says almost anything can be salad. Roslyn Grundy August 28, 2025 Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share Hetty McKinnon has built a career proving that you can, in fact, make friends with salad. The Chinese-Australian food writer is challenging traditional notions of food and entertaining, one dish at a time. Now based in New York City, McKinnon has released her latest cookbook, Linger, which she describes as an anti-dinner party book. McKinnon, who grew up in the Sydney south-west, wants to inspire a new kind of gathering: one filled with intimate, spontaneous meals where people can forget the idea that a salad is just a bowl of leafy greens. Hetty McKinnon making friends with salad in her Brooklyn apartment. Shirley Cai This isnt a new concept for McKinnon; her food journey began in Sydney in 2011 with Arthur Street Kitchen, a business where she delivered salads to her Surry Hills neighbours by bike. Advertisement That business led to her 2013 cookbook Community, which quickly achieved cult status and cemented her reputation as a salad whizz and Good Food contributor whose recipes also regularly feature in The New York Times. McKinnon credits her Chinese-Australian heritage with helping her think differently about texture and flavour. Being Chinese growing up in Australia, I struggled with my identity a bit, wondering where I belonged. But now, decades on, I see it as an advantage. During a recent tour of Australia to launch Linger, McKinnon told Good Food, Ive always thought that Australia is more evolved in the salad-scape. In the US, its still sometimes a bit of a challenge. In Linger, she dives even deeper into her unique approach, proving that almost anything can be a salad. When Im being my most creative in the kitchen and in my recipe development work, its when Im working on a salad because the options are endless. Ive always thought that Australia is more evolved in the salad-scape. In the US, its still sometimes a bit of a challenge. Hetty McKinnon Advertisement The advantage of serving salads as the main event is that you can prepare them ahead, and spend more time with your guests. Most salads should be served at room temperature, so it is fine to make it an hour before and leave it out, she says. Theyre also great for meal prepping for like lunches and things like that. Besides, a well-crafted salad requires as many ingredients and no more effort as a stew or a pasta dish, but is often better received, says McKinnon. I have this theory that when you serve people salad, theyre so much more grateful than if you serve them another dish. Somehow theres a perception that salads are hard, and they take a lot of effort, but they really dont. Five tips for better salads Make the dressing a day or two ahead, and keep it in the fridge or on the bench. The flavour will improve, and it will save you time later. Always keep some vegetables on hand, including peas and corn in the freezer. Feeling as if you have to head out to the shops before cooking will hold you back. Build up a supply of flavour-boosting condiments such as miso, tahini and chilli crisp. Chilli crisp is everywhere. Its ubiquitous, but its ubiquitous for a reason. Add extra flavour with spices such as ground cumin, coriander, turmeric and paprika. When I develop recipes, I try not to use fancy spices, but those are basics that I think everyone should own. Its OK to eat out-of-season tomatoes. Theyre not going to be as good, but like sometimes I dont want to eat just root vegetables all winter. Advertisement Advertisement LifestyleFashionAnna Wintour My first fashion show: Anna Wintour meets the Devil Colleen Barry September 28, 2025 9:32am Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share The Devil wore Dolce & Gabbana on Saturday, with Meryl Streep taking a front-row seat at the designing duos Milan theatre in character as Miranda Priestly for The Devil Wears Prada sequel. Streep wore Priestlys customary sunglasses and a Dolce & Gabbana vinyl trench coat as she entered the theatre escorted by security and trailed by Stanley Tucci, who plays her art director in the film. Stanley Tucci and Meryl Streep at the Dolce & Gabbana spring summer 2026 collection in Milan, Italy, on Saturday. AP Throughout the runway show Streeps character consulted with Tucci, their eyes casting up and down the runway as models passed. The Dolce & Gabbana press office confirmed that the scene was filmed for inclusion in the sequel, which has been shooting in Milan. Advertisement The location will remind movie fans of a scene from the original film where Anne Hathaways character, after answering the phone, asks: Can you please spell Gabbana? The designers posed just a beat or two longer during their customary bow, and Streep and Tucci were whisked to the backstage area as the real-life fashion crowd jumped on the empty runway to snap photos of the moment in fashion history. In a life-imitating-art-imitating-life meta moment, Anna Wintour, who inspired the 2006 film, sat across the runway from Streep in her role as Vogues global editorial director. Wintour and Streep were then seen meeting and hugging in a short video released by Vogue. Advertisement This is my first fashion show, Streep tells Wintour. Not kidding, my first. Wintour has skirted around Streeps performance as the magazine editor widely believed to be modelled on her in the 2006 film which was based on a book of the same name written by a former Vogue assistant Lauren Weisberger. Related Article Media & marketing Anna Wintour 2.0: Meet the new editor of Vogue But in an interview with The New Yorker earlier this month Wintour said, I went to the premiere [of the film] wearing Prada, completely having no idea what the film was going to be about. And I think that the fashion industry were very sweetly concerned for me about the film, that it was going to paint me in some kind of difficult light, she told editor David Remnick. Advertisement I found it highly enjoyable. It was very funny. Miuccia [Prada] and I talk about it a lot, and I say to her: Well, it was really good for you. Wintour said she found the film witty and funny and in the end I thought it was a fair shot. The sequel is due in cinemas next year. AP, Reuters Start the day with a summary of the days most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter. Its 3.30am and I have been sleeping in a red-wallpapered vestry at the back of Collins Street Baptist Church. It is warm in here and dark. Its smells of old Bibles and faded lilies, and it is hard to wake. I slip out of my sleeping bag and walk, sock-footed, back into the church. The reading is still going. A voice in the dark. Calling their names. Nearly 19,000 children who have died in the past two years in Gaza. Their names are printed phonetically, and next to the name, their age. This vigil has committed to reading out loud, over 30 hours, all the names that have been gathered. The bodies of two of the 19,000 children slaughtered in Gaza. AP We are reading the names of the 40 Jewish children who lost their lives on October 7, the 250 children who have been killed on the West Bank, and then, the rest, the children of Gaza. The litany sounds like a heartbeat, one name, one name, one name. It doesnt stop. Earlier this evening, a stunned woman had stood and spontaneously added 10 names to the list children from her extended family who had been killed the day before. She read their names, continuing with the list that lay before her. About eight minutes in, she stumbled, faltering into an abyss. Melissa Leong says she nearly abandoned writing her memoir over fear of the publics reaction to some of its contents. She wears Macgraw The Birdy dress, Ryan Storer earrings. Ahead of a new memoir, the TV personality opens her heart, and her kitchen. (Warning: This story contains references to family violence and sexual assault.) Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Share This story is part of the September 28 edition of Sunday Life. See all stories . Within minutes of arriving at Melissa Leongs home, a renovated terrace in inner Melbourne, its clear she knows how to wield a knife. Im seated at the breakfast bar while the former MasterChef Australia judge sections a whole poached chicken like a pro despite having no formal culinary training. Her cats, Ghost and Ghoul (or Stephen Ghoul-bert, after the US talk show host), loiter nearby. Leong is a lover of fashion, as evidenced by her cover shoot with Sunday Life. But at home, shes more relaxed, dressed down in a mustard Henley tee and jeans, bare-faced and barefoot, her toenails painted a deep burgundy. The one-time Gold Logie nominee is an enigma seemingly everywhere (she posts regularly on Instagram to her 373,000 followers), but also private and even a touch mysterious. Its a balance the 43-year-old has worked hard to maintain while wearing many different hats throughout her life and is a key theme in her new memoir, Guts. Macgraw Dorothea top and skirt. Ryan Storer earrings. Michael Kors boots. Jesse-Leigh Elford Theres Melissa the food writer, TV presenter and former publicist. Then theres Melissa, the daughter of migrants, jiu-jitsu enthusiast and perfume collector. Adding author to that list did not come easily for Leong, who refused several earlier offers to write her story. I was so busy that there was just no way Id have the mental headspace for it, she says. Eventually, the right opportunity came along before Leong had a startling realisation. [I thought,] Can I handle everything else that comes with writing a book thats very personal? she says. I almost handed back the deposit I thought, Im a private person. I dont really feel I want to share these things, or if I do share these things, how are people going to handle it, because my life has not been super rosy all of the time. Advertisement For lunch, Leong is serving Hainanese chicken rice, a dish she learnt to make from her mother, a nurse, and one of the recipes in her book. Asking her to cook was my idea, both as research into her kitchen prowess and to create a safe space for discussing some darker parts of her life. On her left forearm is a tattoo that says Existence is pain, a quote from the animated series Rick and Morty. As we each form the perfect forkful, balancing the ratio of tender chicken to aromatic rice and piquant sambal (note: she can cook exceedingly well), we begin talking about one of the most traumatic chapters of her life. Gucci sweater and skirt, Ryan Storer bracelet. Jesse-Leigh Elford Last year, Leong was invited to an International Womens Day event to speak about being a woman of colour on TV, when a speech by a fellow panellist, sexual abuse survivor and campaigner Anna Coutts-Trotter, struck a painful chord. I identified with [her story] far too much, Leong says. Through quiet sobs, she finally realised what shed long avoided admitting to herself: she herself was once raped. The assault happened about 15 years ago, when she was working in the hospitality industry. I was so ashamed that I just pretended it didnt happen, so I didnt keep proof I just wanted it to all go away, says Leong, who has not disclosed the perpetrators identity. For the longest time, I did not identify myself as a survivor of sexual assault. While writing Guts, Leong decided reluctantly at first to break her silence. That was a tricky time to be in hospitality, she says of her time in food PR, long before her first TV hosting role, on SBSs The Chefs Line in 2017. I let my boundaries be flagrantly crossed, and then I took that blame onto myself for such a long time. Leongs decision to go public about the rape comes amid hospitalitys great reckoning, in which female workers at top Australian establishments are speaking out about their own experiences of sexual harassment and abuse. Though she regrets not speaking up at the time of her own ordeal, we didnt have conversations about consent back then, she says. Advertisement This has been simmering below the surface for such a long time. Enough is enough I have huge admiration for the women who spoke up for that story because that was not easy, she says, referring to a major investigation into the issue by Nine, owner of this masthead. Leong has also learnt, sometimes the hard way, the price of speaking up, especially during her three years on MasterChef, the role that made her a household name. She says she has been portrayed as difficult or a bitch all the fun tropes that women are saddled with both of which she rejects. Alemais Ophira gown, Ryan Storer earrings. Jesse-Leigh Elford Ive thought to myself you dont get it, she says, fighting back tears. I would never do anything that would make it harder for other people [of colour] to come in after me. And if you dont understand that, then, what can I say? Im not sad, Im angry. Still, working on MasterChef was a mostly happy time for Leong, notwithstanding the shock 2023 death of her colleague, Jock Zonfrillo, and intense speculation around why she left the show soon afterwards. While conceding that people want to know about how the sausage is made, she wrote about MasterChef much like the rest of the book: on her terms. I didnt necessarily feel like I wanted to write about some of that [MasterChef] chapter, only because its too fresh; its not even in the rear-vision mirror yet, she says. The experience reinforced to her how far the industry has to go in terms of accurate representation. Im not saying the needles not moving, she says. Im just saying its not moving fast enough. She also learnt to be more comfortable taking up space. Now, if you want to put me in the centre of the room, under a spotlight, I will stand there because I know that I deserve to be there. Advertisement Raised in the predominantly white suburbs of Sydneys Sutherland Shire, Leong is the eldest daughter of Singaporean migrants (her brother, a doctor, is five years her junior). Her childhood, while mostly happy, was tempered by her fathers strict parenting style, which included physical discipline. She says its greatly influenced her decision to remain child-free. If I had kids, I dont know if Id be able to correct the multi-generational damage that has occurred, so Id rather just err on the side of trying to live my life well and with truth, says Leong, who speaks to her mother often, and has a goddaughter, the daughter of close friends. If you want to put me in the centre of the room, under a spotlight, I will stand there because I know that I deserve to be there. Melissa Leong, TV personality People just expect that if youre polished and you are well presented and you appear unbroken, that you must have grown up in a solid [family] environment, she says. Im very grateful in many ways [for how] I grew up. But Im also pretty f---ed up by it, too. Rebuilding herself after a setback is a theme that runs through Leongs story. In her teens, she gave up on dreams of a career in music due to chronic repetitive strain injury. She pivoted to a degree in economics and social sciences at Sydney University, before working in make-up artistry, advertising and food writing, which ultimately led to her TV break. In her book, Leong writes honestly about her battle with an eating disorder, an autoimmune condition and mental breakdown. In her early 30s, she spent two years living in Tasmania, where she began to heal from the trauma of her younger years, work she says is ongoing. If you cant be vulnerable, you cant have real relationships, she says. I had hardened myself so much that I was never going to be able to have real, proper human connections and relationships with people beyond a certain level, if I didnt deal with it then. Advertisement Officially, Leong, whose three-year marriage to bar owner Joe Jones ended in 2020, is single. Still, I ask her about a recent Instagram post seeking advice on where to meet prospective partners (the responses ranged from running clubs to Bunnings). She confesses that she has been on a few dates with one of the men who direct messaged her. Well see, she says, with a grin. Not that she has much spare time. Leong has just returned from New Zealand, where she filmed a new reality show, Taste of Art (Lego Masters meets MasterChef, she says). Since 2023 shes hosted Tens Dessert Masters, and competed in this season of The Amazing Race, a WhatsApp group helping her stay connected with her co-racers after filming ended. Then theres her genre-busting roles co-hosting UFC Fight Week on Kayo Sports, and starring in SBS docu-series such as The Hospital: In The Deep End (2024). Away from the camera, Leongs passions include Pilates and Brazilian jiu-jitsu. I like martial arts because I have felt very weak in my life and I dont ever want to feel that way again, she says, alluding to the trauma she has endured. She also finds contentment from podcasts, watching the odd TV series (shes just revisited Only Murders in the Building), reading and, of course, cooking and enjoying food. Im definitely more aware of balance and rest and tempering activity with recreation and things that are good for my mind, she says. Ive spent a lot of time prioritising other peoples feelings and comfort beyond my own. And so now its time to be a little bit more selfish, a little bit more self-focused, in a constructive way, in order to get there. Guts: A Memoir of Food, Failure and Taking Impossible Chances (Murdoch Books) by Melissa Leong is out on September 30. Melissa Leong will appear in conversation with Melissa Singer for the Wheeler Centre, Melbourne, on October 1, 7pm. wheelercentre.com. Advertisement Commercial airline pilots are required to retire at 65 under Federal Aviation Administration regulations. Its not ageism; its safety. Yet physicians, whose decisions can be just as life-or-death, face no such requirement. As a former internist, chief medical officer, and hospital CEO, I have seen what happens when physicians practice past their prime. The results can be dangerous, heartbreaking, and entirely preventable. When going out on top doesnt happen During my tenure as CEO, multiple reports of concerning behavior crossed my desk about a respected physician. Nurses told me he wandered the unit searching for a patient who had been discharged days earlier. Colleagues described confusion during routine tasks. Though I was not there to diagnose him, I suspected early dementia. I urged him to retire gracefully, protecting both his patients and his reputation. He refused. What followed was painful: tense meetings with his family, escalating safety concerns, and ultimately a precautionary suspension of his hospital privileges. This scenario is not rare. Families often dont recognize the decline (or dont want to) until harm is imminent. Hospital leaders are left with an impossible choice: protect patients and risk humiliating a beloved doctor, or delay action and endanger care. The data are clear Physicians are not immune to aging. Research shows age-related declines in memory, processing speed, and dexterity, all of which affect diagnosis, decision-making, and procedural safety. In one study of 356 U.S. physicians aged 65 and older, 9 percent showed measurable cognitive impairment. In a multi-hospital screening program, 14.4 percent of actively practicing physicians over age 70 screened positive for impairment. A systematic review of sixty-two studies concluded that performance (including adherence to evidence-based guidelines) generally declines with years in practice. We cannot leave this to chance, families, or ad hoc committees. A fair, practical solution I am not advocating mandatory retirement. The Age Discrimination in Employment Act rightly prohibits forcing physicians out based solely on age. But we can and should require regular competency evaluations for older physicians. Heres what I propose: Standardized testing: Cognitive, motor, and physical assessments every two years for physicians 65 and older as part of license renewal. Cognitive, motor, and physical assessments every two years for physicians 65 and older as part of license renewal. Oversight: Administered by state medical boards to ensure fairness and consistency. Administered by state medical boards to ensure fairness and consistency. Due process: Clear appeals and review mechanisms for physicians who fail. Why this helps everyone Patients get assurance that their clinicians are safe to practice. Physicians receive a fair, objective process rather than facing quiet pressure to step down or public embarrassment. Hospitals gain legal clarity and protection from liability. Respect, not punishment When physicians work past the point where they can practice safely, everyone loses. Their reputations, built over decades, may be tarnished in their final years. Patients may suffer preventable harm. Competency testing is not about pushing physicians out; it is about preserving dignity, protecting patients, and honoring the profession we love. Pilots undergo regular checks to keep passengers safe. Our patients deserve nothing less. Joseph Pepe is a physician executive and author with decades of experience across the continuum of care, from home health aide to hospital system chief executive officer. As president and chief executive officer, he led a 330-bed acute care hospital, a heart and vascular institute, physician practices, urgent care centers, and a joint venture ambulatory surgery center, navigating the business of health care while remaining grounded in clinical medicine. Dr. Pepe is the author of the forthcoming On All Sides of the Bed, an 80,000-word memoir that blends gripping bedside stories with lessons on leadership, ethics, and resilience. He has published on health care ethics in the Cambridge Quarterly of Healthcare Ethics, speaks on moral leadership, and mentors clinicians and executives. He writes a popular Substack newsletter and shares reflections on Instagram at @jack_and_homer, exploring mortality, meaning, and the human side of medicine. Through his work, Dr. Pepe invites readers to reflect on how we live, how we heal, and how we lead. Morning mist shrouds the Santa Teresa River as I scramble towards a mountain pass thats tangled in jungle foliage. Beyond the pass are the stony remains of Llactapata, an abandoned Inca shrine whose Quechuan name translates as high town. Its from these elevated ruins that our trekking party procures its first glimpse of the once-forgotten city of Machu Picchu. Permits are issued for only 500 trekkers on the Classic Inca Trail each day, including support staff. Pedro Merino / Stocksy United When hikers on the Classic Inca Trail set eyes upon the 15th-century citadel for the first time, its likely theyll share the view with hundreds of others. So thick are the torch-bearing crowds during the pre-dawn trek from Winay Wayna that the final leg to Machu Picchus Sun Gate entrance can resemble an army of marching glowworms. Not here, though. As I gaze across the Aobamba Valley towards the fabled ruins that American historian Hiram Bingham stumbled upon in 1911, only a handful of others accompany me. With permits issued for 500 trekkers on the Classic Inca Trail each day, including support staff, its almost impossible to imagine a similar scenario there. But while the Classic Inca Trail is South Americas most iconic hike to its best-known attraction, there are many lesser-known trails that the Incas used to reach Machu Picchu. The route Ive chosen this time is called the Salkantay Trek. Where the Classic Inca Trail approaches from the east, mine arrives at Machu Picchu from the south-west. From the trailhead at Challacancha, Id hiked through drizzle to reach my first nights camp beside a glacial lake. I then puffed and panted through thinning oxygen, plunging temperatures and soupy fog the next day until, eventually, I stood atop the Salkantay Pass. Advertisement September 28, 2025 3:01am Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share My husband and I are retired with about $3 million in financial assets managed by an adviser. Their fees have risen each year and are now $26,000 annually (equivalent to 0.85 per cent of the portfolio). Is this reasonable? Our funds are split between two pension accounts (formerly super) and a joint investment account. Returns often trail benchmarks, though Im unsure what benchmark is appropriate. What is the usual range for adviser fees, and how can we judge whether were getting good value? When it comes to financial advice, you want to make sure youre getting what you pay for. Simon Letch The financial planning landscape is diverse. Some practices focus on strategic advice and engage specialists to manage money on behalf of clients, while others take on full portfolio management responsibilities. A fee of 0.85 per cent isnt unreasonable for a full-service solution including portfolio management. But the question is whether you need that level of service, and whether the portfolio management is actually producing tangible benefits, over outsourcing that function to a specialist. I suggest you shop around. Advertisement My partner is due to receive a workers compensation payout this year, and needs assistance to manage the money. He is hopeless with money and has asked me to take control of it. Does a financial product exist where he can deposit the money and receive a regular (say monthly) payment, while the balance earns a respectable amount? Editor's pick Opinion Inheritance Not just the Murdochs: How to stop destructive inheritance battles Noel Whittaker Money columnist Yes, there is. Managed fund and wrap products offer regular withdrawals which can be set to pay you income each month. His money could then be invested in a balanced fund or similar, depending on your partners comfort around risk. Some thought needs to be put into the investment allocation, particularly if the amounts are large. To facilitate the monthly payout, the fund administrator will typically sell down investments, and that triggers a capital gains tax assessment. This is not a significant impediment, but just something you want to be aware of. If the amounts are large, you might want to have a cash fund within your portfolio that receives all dividends and interest, and pays out the monthly drawing. This will minimise the capital gains tax incurred. Advertisement How would you suggest I invest $200,000 from a maturing term deposit? I am 65, debt-free and have $500,000 in accumulation mode super. Commentary online seems to favour super, but as the stock market is close to record levels and I plan to retire in two years, is this advisable if the market falls significantly between now and then? Related Article Opinion Ask an expert I just turned 60 and dont need the money. Should I still draw from my super? Paul Benson Money contributor The first important thing for me to share with you is that superannuation is a tax regime, not an investment in the stock market. Within super, you choose how your money is invested. If you wish, you could invest your money in a cash option. Some funds even offer term deposits. Therefore in making your decision, split the investment/risk element from the ownership element. The next item to address is the stock market being at record levels. Stock markets are at record levels a lot. Picture a standard market graph, and you will see that it goes up and to the right. As businesses make profits they reinvest a portion back into their business, so there is an inbuilt element of compounding occurring. Advertisement Finally, you are two years out from retirement. Yes, that means you should have a plan to address the potential for a market correction they do happen. But once retired, your money will continue to be invested for hopefully another 20-plus years. You can still invest with some exposure to normal market ups and downs. Paul Benson is a certified financial planner at Guidance Financial Services. He hosts the Financial Autonomy podcast. Questions to: paul@financialautonomy.com.au Advice given in this article is general in nature and is not intended to influence readers decisions about investing or financial products. They should always seek their own professional advice that takes into account their own personal circumstances before making any financial decisions. Expert tips on how to save, invest and make the most of your money delivered to your inbox every Sunday. Sign up for our Real Money newsletter. Federal opposition finance spokesman Senator James Paterson has sharply criticised the governments budget management, telling the ABCs Afternoon Briefing program that Labor drove the budget into deficit despite a huge revenue windfall. Patersons comments come after the government earlier today confirmed an end to its back-to-back surpluses, with the final budget outcome showing a deficit of $10 billion for the last financial year. Paterson said the government could have delivered a surplus this year (potentially a $12 billion surplus) had it not proceeded with net spending that prevented it from achieving one. He rejected the treasurers claim of brilliance and hard work, arguing the improvement was solely due to a surge in post-COVID revenue from higher commodity prices and people paying more tax. Paterson described the high income-tax revenue as coming off the backs of hard work of Australians, who are not better off because inflation has risen faster than their wages, pushing them into higher tax brackets. He warned that because the surge in post-COVID revenue is going away, the country now faces a decade of Labor deficits to come, and $1.2 trillion of debt. On other matters, Paterson conceded that taxpayer help would be necessary to get energy-intensive aluminium smelters through the next year or two. He also strongly criticised the prime ministers decision to address the UK Labour Party conference, calling it inappropriate and saying the party, not taxpayers, should cover the cost of the side trip. He accused the prime minister of a political intervention into UK politics, trying to bail out a mate. Advertisement Analysis PoliticsFederalPolitical leadership We are fighting for democracy itself, Albanese declares to UK Labour Matthew Knott September 28, 2025 8:30pm Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share 98 View all comments Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has declared he and fellow Western leaders are locked in a fight for democracy itself as he rallied his British counterparts to show young people that centre-left parties can deliver on the major challenges of our time. As he came under fire from the opposition for travelling to Liverpool to speak at the British Labour conference, Albanese drew upon the success of Australia and Britain rebuilding their societies after defeating Nazi Germany to say progressive parties must deal with the affordable housing crisis and threat of artificial intelligence. Referencing former British Labour leader Harold Wilson, Albanese said democratic leaders must show citizens that the white heat of technology can forge new opportunities for working people. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese at the UK Labour Annual Conference in Liverpool. Dominic Lorrimer In an era where artificial intelligence is transforming our economies, we must stand up for secure jobs and fair wages, Albanese told the conference, according to advance speech notes provided by his office. Advertisement At a time when young people feel the housing market is beyond their reach, we must build the new homes and create the economic opportunity that revives the dream of home ownership. Related Article Foreign relations Nostalgia is not a strategy: Albanese joins PMs against populist right As his British counterpart Keir Starmer languishes in the polls and Nigel Farages far-right Reform party surges in popularity, Albanese said the traditional parties of government had an obligation to show they can make practical improvements to peoples lives. We all know this is a time when trust in governments and institutions is under challenge, Albanese said. We all sense this is an era when our capacity for peaceful disagreement is being tested. Advertisement But what I see here in UK Labour is the same determination that I know lives in every member of Australian Labor an absolute resolve to stand together and defend democracy itself. Albanese said traditional parties of government would be able to seize the opportunities of clean energy and technological innovation only if our people continue to see our institutions as the best way to make it happen. Albanese, the first Australian Labor leader to address the British Labour conference, has been sought out for advice while in Britain on how to prosper as a centre-left party after his thumping May election victory over Peter Dutton. On Saturday, Anthony Albanese appeared alongside his beleaguered British counterpart Keir Starmer at a summit in London. Dominic Lorrimer Urging democratic leaders to bring both optimism and urgency to the task of governing in a time of technological upheaval and geopolitical competition, Albanese said the experience of post-war Australia and Britain showed that bold policy reform was possible. Advertisement Clement Attlee and Ben Chifley and their Labor governments worked to build societies worthy of those whod fought to defend the world from fascism and tyranny, Albanese said. Related Article Updated Royal family Albanese plays down chances of republic referendum after meeting with King By opening the doors of opportunity through education. By creating secure, well-paid jobs in manufacturing. By treating housing as not only the need, but the right, of every citizen. After Opposition Leader Sussan Ley accused him of swanning around Britain on self-indulgent trip, Albanese defended his travel to Liverpool by saying he would meet with key members of Starmers cabinet. The UK relationship is really important, Albanese told the ABCs Insiders on Sunday. Advertisement Every minister in the UK government will be in Liverpool tomorrow. Ill be there too, and Ill be meeting and engaging with them. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese during a press conference at Stock Lodge in London at the weekend. Dominic Lorrimer Ley accused Albanese of engaging in partisan politics in Britain, saying: Albanese is in the UK as the Australian prime minister, not the leader of the Australian Labor Party he shouldnt be swanning around on the taxpayer dollar at Labour political conferences hanging out with his left-wing mates. Albanese also met with British Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch while in London, but he steered clear of seeking any meeting with Farage. After his speech in Liverpool, Albanese will travel on to the United Arab Emirates before returning to Australia. Cut through the noise of federal politics with news, views and expert analysis. Subscribers can sign up to our weekly Inside Politics newsletter here. Advertisement PoliticsNSWWaste Boss Hogg councillor charged with dumping asbestos on Crown land Kate McClymont September 29, 2025 3:00am Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share An explosion and a fire in a unit complex in Binnaway, population 400, have triggered a series of unfortunate events for the buildings owner, local councillor Ray Lewis. I was trying to do a clean-up, not a dirty-up, said Lewis, who has been charged with offences relating to his alleged dumping of asbestos-riddled debris from the building onto Crown land. He has also been charged with providing false or misleading information to his own council. Warrumbungle Shire Councillor Ray Lewis says his Binnaway unit complex had a bomb go off. Known locally as Boss Hogg after the controversial fictional politician in the US television series The Dukes of Hazzard, Thomas Raymond Lewis, 71, is a long-time officeholder on the Warrumbungle Shire Council, which includes the central west towns of Coolah, Coonabarabran and Binnaway. It had a bomb go off. A bloke filled his flat up with gas and then lit a match, Lewis told the Herald of the October 2023 explosion and fire, which destroyed his two-storey unit complex in Renshaw Street. A number of his tenants suffered injuries and one man, who suffered serious burns, had to be airlifted to Sydney for specialist treatment. Advertisement In the debris of Lewiss unit block, local officials identified friable asbestos, which occurs when asbestos is subjected to fire or explosive force. Street view of the unit complex owned by Councillor Ray Lewis before it was destroyed by an explosion in 2023. Asbestos was banned from use in the construction industry more than 20 years ago because of its links to serious lung disease. Friable asbestos, which can be easily crumbled, poses a much greater health hazard and can be removed only by a Class A licensed asbestos removalist. The council issued Lewis a directive requiring him to obtain the necessary permits to handle the removal of the friable asbestos during the demolition of the building. Instead, Lewis is alleged to have dumped the polluted material on remote Crown land. Investigators found 500 cubic metres, the equivalent of 80 truckloads, of the asbestoscontaminated debris dumped only twenty metres from the Castlereagh River. Advertisement Lewis, who described himself as a multi-skilled contractor, said he was merely trying to cover over construction rubbish that other unknown people had previously been dumped at the site, which he said was on the boundary fence of a property he leases. The councillor also suggested his current predicament might be due to an unspecified vendetta against him. Asbestos dumped on Crown land, allegedly by Councillor Ray Lewis. Its very disappointing that this has happened, said Mayor Kathy Rindfleish of the alleged illegal dumping of asbestos. She said investigations commenced after the council received a complaint. Under the Protection of the Environment Operations Act, pollution of land can attract penalties of up $500,000 for an individual or $2 million for a corporation. The same penalties apply for the unlawful disposal of asbestos. Advertisement Lewis, who intends to plead not guilty, will appear before the Coonabarabran Local Court on October 21. He has also been issued with a statutory clean-up notice, which requires him to remove the contaminated material and restore the Crown land to its original condition. Start the day with a summary of the days most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter. Advertisement WorldAsiaTourism Tourism has poured billions of dollars into Bali over decades. Where has it all gone? Zach Hope and Amilia Rosa September 25, 2025 5:53pm Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share What in the World, a free weekly newsletter from our foreign correspondents, is sent every Thursday. Below is an excerpt. Sign up to get the whole newsletter delivered to your inbox. As Australians tend to demonstrate, a trip to Bali can be hazardous. Many routes to the ER or jail involve a degree of hubris. Classics include scooter prangs and poorly concealed drugs. The predominant danger, though, is far more mundane and right under your nose. Crumbling, blocked, narrow, sloped and jutting tickets to a botched holiday the islands footpaths. Motorcyclists travelling on the footpaths in Canggu. Amilia Rosa When roads in Bali are jammed, which is always, footpaths become de-facto motorcycle lanes, terrorising unknowing pedestrians and hastening the degradation of the pavers. You could break a shin in some of Balis potholes. Advertisement Dwi Ermayanthi of Ubud Story Walks, a walking tour company, is a veteran, and says, Ive fallen a couple of times myself. The team advises against prams. We also worry when we have elderly clients. Tourism operators have discussions with government types from time to time. But nothing happens, Dwi says. So, she and her team made a funny video. Miming to the sultry voice of Tank Evans from the animated movie Surfs Up describing his trophies as ladies, the team flips the monologue into a showcase of Ubuds finest footpath fails. (This is my lady, Amy. Little Suzy. Brianna. Yknow why we call her Brianna, right?) Advertisement It was an in-joke with everyone. And it resonated. The response to the video was so overwhelming that authorities stopped by, inquiring about the purpose of the video. I explained, and they took note of my explanation, which was that it was meant as a joke, Dwi says. They said it was scheduled to be fixed. It wasnt. Advertisement The social posts are light-hearted, offensive only to Balis civil works bosses. But they scratch at something more serious than broken footpaths. I visit Bali semi-regularly for work, and most days Im frustrated at something. Its often the matter of getting around. Invariably, I return to the question. Why is the infrastructure so bad? Tourism has poured billions of dollars into Bali over decades. Where has it all gone? Traffic is interminable. Even the one-and-only toll road, built over the sea to ease congestion ahead of the 2013 APEC Summit, hits a bottleneck caused by a poorly designed traffic light intersection at Benoa. Advertisement Its like this all the time, said my apologetic Grab (ride-share) driver one night as we crawled two kilometres in an hour. Related Article Waste Something stinks in paradise: New decree leaves Bali buried in rubbish Despite years of talk, there is no train. And dont drink the tap water. Garbage lines every street and path. Once pristine mangroves are clogged with the stuff and it would be worse if local volunteers hadnt been wading through sludge with rubbish bags to clean it up. Some might say its part of the charm. I dont. My lament is not for the visitors. Its for the ordinary Balinese, who deserve better from the rivers of AUD, USD and Euros that flow to the island. Advertisement Where has the money gone? The short answer is Jakarta. Congestion in Bali Amilia Rosa Almost all taxes collected in Bali head straight to the central government. It then goes all over Indonesia, says Dr Agung Suryawan Wiranatha, an expert in tourism and the environment at Balis Udayana University. If contributions correlate with money being reinvested in an area, the poor remain poor and the rich become even richer. Advertisement In this sense, Bali is a bit like Western Australia used to be with Australias GST distribution. Unlike the West Australians, though, the Balinese never really complained. Still, fairly reasoning that it deserves a bigger slice of its own pie, the provincial government last year implemented a $15 tourist levy, which every one of the annual six million foreign tourists are supposed to pay. Problem is, only about a third do. The government doesnt exactly help its own cause. Signage at the airport about the levy has all but disappeared. There certainly arent payment counters. Online is fine, but many visitors remain unaware of their obligations. Another money problem stems from corruption, which is rife across Indonesia. In addition, some laws are just easy to bypass. Foreigners wishing to set up a business, for example, are supposed to stump up a certain amount of capital. But why do that when its cheaper to install a local as the owner? Advertisement Related Article Property development Bali announces hotel crackdown after tourism blamed for deadly floods The books say the profits are going to an Indonesian, but the money actually winds up in Australian and European bank accounts rather than circulating in the local economy. Even above-board, five-star international hotel chains spend or send more than half their takings overseas, Agung says. For all its frustrations, people, especially Australians, love the place. We make up about a quarter of foreign tourists, more than any other country. But the islands strategy, or lack thereof, has favoured let the good times roll over sustainable growth. Advertisement Theres no city planning, Agung says. Shops, villas, homes and restaurants popped up wherever there was money to be made, sometimes with approvals. Sometimes not. The provincial government is now attempting to remedy some historical rogue construction, most notably at Bingin Beach. Its a drop in the Bali Sea. The slapdash accumulation of buildings and livelihoods between the airport and hotspots such as Kuta, Seminyak and Canggu has turned any thought of street widening into electoral poison. Tourists navigating the footpaths in Ubud. Amilia Rosa The Balinese have a concept called Tri Hita Karana. It holds that happiness springs from the health of ones relationships with the divine, other people and nature. Fused into laws, this has prevented horizon-spoiling apartment towers. Advertisement But setting height limits is easy. Preventing the creep of small-scale construction, especially when Jakarta handles building applications, is more difficult. You will find spirituality and goodwill in abundance in Bali. Thats tick and tick in Tri Hita Karana terms. On much of the island, however, harmony with the environment is more elusive, no matter what social media influencers like to post. Balis governor and Indonesias environment minister linked this months deadly floods, which locals described as the worst they had ever seen, with tourism-related overdevelopment. New developments such as hotels and restaurants in forested areas and on small farming plots that still dot Denpasar and surrounds are now banned indefinitely. The moratorium will be popular among ordinary Balinese fed-up with misbehaving tourists and the plundering of their island for other peoples profit. In Ubud, Dwi Ermayanthi from the walking tour wonders how hard it can really be to fix the footpaths. Advertisement After the first joke video, workers patched-up a gangrenous section her team nicknamed Brianna (the name of one of Tanks trophies in Surfs Up). The job was done so poorly they filmed a follow-up, this one borrowing from The Princess Diaries. Its light-hearted and funny too, like the Balinese themselves. If they were more impatient they might get their governments to fix things. They might also go mad. Get a note directly from our foreign correspondents on whats making headlines around the world. Sign up for our weekly What in the World newsletter. Advertisement Updated WorldNorth AmericaMass shooting Trump condemns targeted attack after Mormon church mass shooting Angus Thompson Updated September 29, 2025 1:21pm ,first published September 29, 2025 2:39am Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share 225 View all comments London/Grand Blanc, Michigan: A former US Marine allegedly rammed a pick-up truck through the front doors of a packed Mormon church in Michigan, opened fire and set the building ablaze in a deadly mass shooting that US President Donald Trump labelled another targeted attack on Christians. At least four people were killed and at least eight others were wounded, while the church was engulfed in flames and billowing smoke. The suspect, identified as 40-year-old Thomas Jacob Sanford, was killed in a shootout with police outside The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc, about 80 kilometres north of Detroit. Loading Two of the victims died of gunshot wounds, police said, and two others were found as authorities searched the charred remains of the church. A number of people remained unaccounted for on Monday afternoon (AEST). The FBI sent 100 agents to the area, Grand Blanc Township police chief William Renye said, while US Attorney-General Pam Bondi described the attack as chilling, and the New York Police Department said it was sending officers to religious institutions across its city as a precaution. Advertisement Renye did not specify a motive at a news conference on Sunday evening (Monday AEST) but said investigators were searching the suspects home in nearby Burton as well as his phone records. US military records show Sanford was a US Marine from 2004 to 2008 and an Iraq war veteran. The US president took to Truth Social to say that while the suspect was dead, there is still a lot to learn. Police said the blaze had been brought under control. AP Firefighters return to their vehicles after taking care of the fire. AP This appears to be yet another targeted attack on Christians in the United States of America. The Trump Administration will keep the Public posted, as we always do. In the meantime, PRAY for the victims, and their families. THIS EPIDEMIC OF VIOLENCE IN OUR COUNTRY MUST END, IMMEDIATELY! he wrote. Advertisement The presidents comments come a week after he used a memorial for prominent evangelical Christian and conservative activist Charlie Kirk who was shot while speaking at a Utah university on September 10 to describe him as a martyr for American freedom. In the same speech, he placed the blame for Kirks murder on the radical left. The incident has sent shockwaves around the US and has been seen by commentators as a galvanising moment for the Christian right. Grand Blanc Township chief of police William Renye. AP A Michigan state trooper with a robot near the home of the suspect. AP Renye told a press conference the suspect allegedly burst in on hundreds of people while a morning service was under way just before 10.30am Sunday local time (12.30am Monday AEST). Advertisement He drove his vehicle through the front doors of the church. He then exited his vehicle firing several rounds at individuals within the church, Renye said. During all this incident as well, there was a fire that occurred, and we believe that that was deliberately set by the suspect. Two law enforcement officers rushed to the scene within 30 seconds of receiving emergency calls and engaged the suspect in an exchange of gunfire, shooting him dead in the parking lot about eight minutes after the incident began, Renye said. An official with the US Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives said investigators believe the shooter used an accelerant probably gasoline to start the fire, and that some explosives were recovered. The FBI said it was leading the investigation of what it considered an act of targeted violence. Advertisement One witness told WXYZ television she heard a big bang and the doors blew. I lost friends in there and some of my little primary children that I teach on Sundays were hurt. Its very devastating for me, said the woman, who gave her name as Paula. People are reunited with friends and family who were present during the shooting. AP Attendees hold lit candles during a vigil. AP The Mormons, formally known as the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, follow the teachings of Jesus but also the prophecies of Joseph Smith, a 19th century American. Advertisement Related Article Violence How 106 people got together to stop a school shooting before it happened Bondi said in a post on X: Such violence at a place of worship is heartbreaking and chilling. Please join me in praying for the victims of this terrible tragedy. The Michigan rampage marked the 324th mass shooting in the US this year, according to the Gun Violence Archive, which describes a mass shooting as one in which four or more people are shot or killed, not including the shooter. It was also the third US mass shooting in less than 24 hours, including one at a waterfront bar in North Carolina that left three people dead and five wounded, and another at a casino in Eagle Pass, Texas, that killed at least two people and injured several others. With AP, Reuters Get a note directly from our foreign correspondents on whats making headlines around the world. Sign up for our weekly What in the World newsletter. SHREVEPORT, La. - A rescue in Shreveport had a happy ending after neighbors worked together to save a kitten trapped in a storm drain. During a storm Wednesday, a kitten was swept into a storm drain at Centenary Boulevard and Kings Highway. People walking by reported hearing the cries of a kitten underground, and a Facebook post alerting neighbors to the situation quickly went viral. "I saw a post on Facebook where a woman said there was a kitten stuck in a storm drain in front of Centenary. So at about 1 a.m., I went down there with a can of cat food because I figured it would be hungry. At 4 a.m., I got the idea to put a sheet down there so maybe it could climb out. I went out there near 5 a.m. by myself and threw the sheet down there," said Kaila Duncan. The kitten was stuck deep inside the drain for more than 48 hours. Neighbors tried calling animal control, the fire department and then city crews helped them open up the storm drain. Mack Mckay brought a ladder and climbed inside to rescue the kitten. "I have a ladder in the back of my truck at all times. I probably could have monkeyed my way down. But the trap was kind of sideways and hanging by a string. I got in the hole, and thankfully someone put a little wet food can right there and it came out," said Mckay. Mike Powell with Casper's Cats has helped trap, neuter and release more than 500 cats. He says seeing the community come together to rescue this kitten's life means the world to rescuers. "People want to be a part of that. They want to save and to help. We're basically going out there, trapping cats, taking them to get fixed and taking them back hopefully where we got them from. If one mom gets away and has a cat, that's nine cats. Nine cats turns into eighteen, then it get's pretty rough," said Powell. The kitten is in good health, has a vet appointment scheduled and has found its forever home with Duncan. She even named the kitten Pennywise after the clown from "IT. To support Casper's Cats, click here. When Mayo Cancer Support Association launched its new flagship fundraiser the Brave the Drop Croke Park Abseil Challenge - with the support of Mayo GAA last July, it was not prepared for the overwhelming response. Brave the Drop challenges people to undertake a sponsored 150ft abseil from the roof of Croke Park in Dublin on October 10th next, with all monies raised supporting the delivery of free support services by Mayo Cancer Support to local people affected by cancer. Close to 100 people have since signed up to 'brave the drop' and the fundraiser last week passed the 130,000 milestone. Mayo Cancer Support Association manager, Orla Gillespie, said the charity is indebted to Mayo GAA, the abseilers and the public for their incredible support. Brave the Drop has captured the imagination of participants and donors alike, with the bravery theme resonating with anyone that has witnessed the courage that a cancer diagnosis demands. Mayo Cancer Support is proud to walk the cancer journey with hundreds of Mayo people every year, helping to nurture their courage and ability to navigate the illness, she explained. The Brave the Drop Challenge looks set to surpass the combined fundraising activities undertaken by or on behalf of Mayo Cancer Support throughout 2024. With just over two weeks to go to the abseil, the charity is now hopeful of raising a phenomenal 150,000 in total. This event is not just about raising funds though, Ms Gillespie stressed. We need to raise the profile of Mayo Cancer Support Association so that it becomes a household name that is recognised as a safe space where people can access empathetic support and National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP) - endorsed services in community-based settings in Castlebar, Ballina and Achill. Almost 100 incredible individuals have committed to 'braving the drop' for Mayo Cancer Support in Croke Park this October. Were hoping that the people of Mayo and local businesses will continue to respond to that bravery by donating to the campaign online." For more information, see www.mayocancersupport.ie or call 094-9038407. Elevenlabs AudioNative Player President Donald Trump holds a signed presidential memorandum on countering anti-fascism in the Oval Office at the White House, Thursday, Sept. 25, 2025, in Washington. [AP Photo/Alex Brandon] Trumps deployment of troops to Portland, Oregon, with authorization to use deadly violence, is a criminal assault on the American people and part of a calculated conspiracy to obliterate democratic rights and establish a police state. On Saturday morning, Trump posted on Truth Social: At the request of Secretary of Homeland Security, Kristi Noem, I am directing Secretary of War, Pete Hegseth, to provide all necessary Troops to protect War ravaged Portland, and any of our ICE Facilities under siege from attack by Antifa, and other domestic terrorists. I am also authorizing Full Force, if necessary. The president of the United States has ordered the military into an American city with the explicit directive to use deadly force against civilians. This is an unprecedented violation of the Constitution and the Posse Comitatus Act. It is a frontal assault on the inalienable rights of the population, including those inscribed in the First Amendment, which prohibits any abridgment of the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances. If there were any definition of high crimes and misdemeanors, this is it. As the Socialist Equality Party wrote in its statement of September 19, one week ago, It is necessary to put aside all self-deluding hopes that what is unfolding is anything less than a drive to establish a presidential dictatorship, based on the military, police, paramilitary forces and fascist gangs. This warning has now been entirely confirmed. All the events since the killing of Charlie Kirk have been orchestrated to implement plans that were drawn up well in advance. Trump and his accomplices, including Steven Miller and Steve Bannon, turned last weekends grotesque Arizona memorial into a fascist call to arms, portraying Kirk as a martyr and demanding a war against the left. Trump himself invoked Kirks supposed last words to justify deploying the National Guard and federal troops into American cities. Even as Trump orders the military into Portland, preparations are underway for the deployment of the National Guard to Memphis this week. Other cities will follow, including Chicago, which Trump threatened with war earlier this month. Trumps declaration of war on Portland also comes in advance of two developments taking place on Tuesday. First, the extraordinary meeting outside Washington called by War Secretary Pete Hegseth involving hundreds of active-duty generals and admirals ordered to return from military bases throughout the world. This meeting is intended to assert Trumps direct control over the military, whose officers will be told to pledge an oath of loyalty to Trump as he deploys soldiers against the American population. Second, the looming budget deadline, which expires at midnight on September 30. Trump has made clear his intention to use a government shutdown to carry out mass firings of federal workers and a vast restructuring of the state in line with his unfolding coup. The targeting of Portland also follows Trumps September 25 memorandum branding all left-wing opposition as domestic terrorism. The document, which followed an earlier executive order, strings together unrelated incidents to manufacture the fiction of a vast left-wing terror network and declares that the common threads animating this violent conduct include anti-Americanism, anti-capitalism, and anti-Christianity. The position of the Trump government is that all opposition to the fascistic right is criminal domestic terrorism. This definition is intended to provide the framework for the illegalization of all forms of political opposition. Included in this wide web of political repression is even the Democratic Party. Last month, in an appearance on Fox News, White House deputy chief of staff Stephen Miller declared that the Democrat Party is not a political party. It is a domestic extremist organization. In a television interview Wednesday on CNN, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem was asked directly whether the DHS was considering classifying the Democratic Party as a domestic extremist organization, potentially making it a target of the campaign of mass repression. Noem refused to respond to the question, except to say, I think their views are extreme. The British newspaper The Independent noted, Millers suggestion that the entire Democratic Party could be criminalized as a domestic extremist organization would effectively end American democracy if actually achieved. No major American newspaper has broached the subject, and not a single leading Democrat has warned that there are ongoing discussions in the White House about whether to outlaw their party. Trump is not acting as an individual, but as a representative of the corporate-financial oligarchy which sees in him a vehicle to defend its wealth through war abroad and repression at home. The ruling elite is preparing a massive assault on what remains of social programs. The central target of this offensive is the working class itself, whose living standards and democratic rights must be crushed to preserve the obscene wealth and power of the oligarchy. In carrying out its coup, the administration relies on the cowardice and complicity of the Democratic Party. In response to Trumps deployment of troops to Portland, the Democrats have issued statements aimed at systematically downplaying the significance of Trumps actions and attempting to demobilize political opposition to his ongoing coup. I ask Oregonians to stay calm and enjoy a beautiful fall day, wrote Oregon Governor Tina Kotek. The states Democratic Party issued a statement begging Trump to abandon this dangerous misuse of power and focus on the real work of governing. At the national level, a handful of individual figures have posted mealy-mouthed statements that commit the party to nothing. There has been no call for an emergency caucus, no call for mass protest, and not even a warning to the military that it is legally bound to reject unconstitutional orders. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer tweeted, Portland is not war ravaged. U.S. troops are not political playthings. And Trump is not a king. Democrats will fight in Congress to stop him. Senator Bernie Sanders likewise posted, Mr. President: Read the Constitution. The function of the U.S. military is to protect us from FOREIGN enemies, not Portland, OR. In this country we have local and state police for law enforcement, not federal troops. Stop deploying the U.S. army against Americans. Sanders statement is a political farce. He pleads with the coup plotter to stop his coup, as though Trump could be persuaded to abandon his drive for dictatorship with a civics lesson. The Democrats, who represent the same billionaire oligarchs on whose behalf Trump rules, fear a mass movement against Trump far more than they oppose Trumps dictatorship. They remain silent even under direct threats by Trump and his top fascist aides to target the party as a whole. As of this writing, the AFL-CIO has also issued no response to Trumps order to deploy troops to Portland. Its president, Liz Shuler, responded to developments over the past week with a public statement Thursday on the looming government shutdown, appealing for the administration to get to work and find a funding solution now to avoid a costly government shutdown. The question must be urgently raised in every factory, workplace and school: How is Trumps coup to be stopped? Opposition will not come from Congress, the courts, or the corporate media. If there is going to be resistance, it must come from below, through the mobilization of all genuine defenders of democratic rights, spearheaded by the working class. Historically, when confronted with the threat of dictatorship and repression, the most powerful weapon of the working class has been the general strikethe organized withdrawal of labor to immobilize the forces of reaction. Just one week ago, in a statement that warned of the unfolding conspiracy to overthrow the Constitution, the SEP called for The building of a new form of organization that can unify the working class and mobilize its vast industrial and economic power against the Trump regime. The statement explained: This new form of organization proposed by the Socialist Equality Party consists of rank-and-file committees. They must be established in every factory, workplace, school and neighborhood to organize resistance to Trumps dictatorship. These committees must become centers of resistance, uniting all sections of the working class (in industry, logistics, transport, restaurants and fast food, social services, legal defense, education, arts and culture, entertainment, medicine, health care, sciences, computer technology, programming and other highly specialized professions) and student youth against Trumps fascist government, the complicity of the Democrats, and the broader assault on democratic rights and living standards. The building of rank-and-file committees is essential to break the stranglehold of the trade union bureaucracies, which function as industrial police for the corporations and utilize their power to block every form of resistance by the working class. Power must be transferred from the offices of the bureaucratic parasites to the workers on the shop floor and job sites, where decisions on all matters of strategy, policy and action can be made democratically by the working class. These rank-and-file committees, spreading across all workplaces, will create new centers of coordinated social power upon which the defense of democracy throughout the country can be based. The mobilized working class will be able to inspire with confidence and unify all the now disparate elements of protest in a massive social movement against the hated government led and controlled by capitalist oligarchy. The working class must be mobilized to defend all democratic rights. This means opposing the criminal and inhumane policy of mass deportations and defending without compromise the principle of birthright citizenship, enshrined in the Constitution. Class-conscious workers reject the reactionary division between native and foreign-born, which serves only to divide and weaken the working class. The struggle against Trumps coup can be carried forward only through the independent mobilization of the working class against the capitalist oligarchy and the capitalist system as a whole. We call on workers, young people and all those committed to the defense of democratic rights to support and join the effort by the Socialist Equality Party to arm the growing opposition with a socialist and internationalist program, and to build the revolutionary leadership necessary to guide this fight. Police in Austin, Texas, have announced a major breakthrough in the notorious "yogurt shop murders" of four girls. They say they have identified a suspect: A deceased serial killer named Robert Eugene Brashers. "Austin Police have made a significant breakthrough in the 1991 I Cant Believe Its Yogurt murder case and we have new information," an Austin police news release says. "Our team never gave up working this case. For almost 34 years they have worked tirelessly and remained committed to solving this case for the families of Jennifer Harbison, Sarah Harbison, Eliza Thomas, and Amy Ayers, all innocent lives taken senselessly and far too soon," it adds. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We have identified a suspect in these murders through a wide range of DNA testing. The suspect is Robert Eugene Brashers, who committed suicide in 1999. This remains an open and ongoing investigation." COMPLEX SHOP: Shop the brands you love, anytime and anywhere. Uncover what's next. Buy. Collect. Obsess. "APD investigators have been in touch with the families. We ask for your patience as we continue this process and remain mindful of the many people whose lives have been deeply affected by this case," police wrote. According to 48 Hours' correspondent Erin Moriarity, a retired investigator named John Jones worked on the case as an Austin police detective. He shed new light on the evidence that allegedly connects Brashers to the crime. 48 Hours exclusive: Correspondent @EFMoriarty has learned serial killer Robert Brashers, who is deceased, has been identified as a suspect in the 1991 murders of four teenage girls in an Austin, Texas, yogurt shop. 48 Hours has covered this case from the very beginning. pic.twitter.com/XK49KxMHfa 48 Hours (@48hours) September 26, 2025 Brashers "is a serial killer and rapist who committed at least three murders between 1990 and 1998 in the states of South Carolina and Missouri," CBS News reported, noting that he died in 1999 "by suicide during a standoff with police." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jones told Moriarty that the gun he used in 1999 is "consistent with a bullet casing found in a drain inside the yogurt shop." The four girls were found "gagged, tied up with their own clothing, and shot in the head" inside the yogurt shop, CBS News reported. According to KVUE-TV, DNA previously linked Brashers to the murders of Sherri Scherer and her 12-year-old daughter, Megan Scherer, in Portageville, Missouri. He was also linked to the murder of 28-year-old Genevieve Zitricki in Greenville, South Carolina, the station reported. Genealogical DNA testing was used to solve the yogurt shop murders case. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to People, two other people, Michael Scott, Robert Springsteen, were convicted after confessing to the yogurt shop murders, but their convictions were overturned, and they were released in 2009 due to lack of evidence and recantations. It's not clear why Brashers was in Austin. Related News Who Said It: Oprah or a Serial Killer? , Canadian Serial Killer Paul Bernardo Releases E-Book , Sarah Koenig Reveals the Killer in This Perfect "Serial" Parody Related News Woman Faces 20 Years After Alleged Outburst on Flight Led to Her Being Duct-Taped to Seat Coldplay Kiss Cam: Husband of Kristin Cabot Attended the Same Concert With His Own Date COMPLEX SHOP: Shop the brands you love, anytime and anywhere. Uncover what's next. Buy. Collect. Obsess. Making Culture Pop. Find the latest entertainment news and the best in music, pop culture, sneakers, style and original shows. Dakota Johnsons latest photoshoot has brought fans to their knees! In case you missed it, on Sept 26, the Verity star and Elle Brasil shared a cover shoot snapshot of her looking so old Hollywood. They shared the photo with the caption roughly translated, reading: For #Volume21 of #ELLEBrasil, we went to Los Angeles, where @dakotajohnson lives, to photograph her under the California sun. In the shoot, shot by @gleesonpaulino, she emerges as a star living under constant camera surveillance. In a conversation with culture editor @brunabittencourt1, she says that growing up behind the scenes of films didnt prepare her for todays film industry: I think Hollywood is very different these days, especially with social media and the internet. Curious to read the full interview? Get your copy now at elle.com.br or in the Instagram store. More from SheKnows Advertisement Advertisement You can see the post HERE! In the snapshot, we see Johnson with curly hair, lounging on lime-green silk sheets in a pink, lace, and silk slip dress that showcases her mile-long legs and bare back. Is sexy sleepcore a thing? Well, we think Johnson is making it a thing because fans want to recreate this stunning pic ASAP! Whether it be daring naked dresses or a silky slip, Johnson always wants to rock the sparkly and shiny side of fashion. In fact, in a rare previous interview with Vogue, Johnsons longtime stylist Kate Young discussed what the Fifty Shades of Grey star typically gravitates towards. Classic, minimal, elegant, with just a little bit of fashion for day. Dakota wants to be a disco ball, she said, adding that she got her love for sparkle after seeing her mother, Melanie Griffith, in so many sparkling gowns over the years. Advertisement Advertisement undefined Best of SheKnows Sign up for SheKnows' Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. THE RUNDOWN Dakota Johnson attended the Zurich Film Festival in Switzerland this weekend. She was honored with the Golden Eye Award. On Saturday night, she wore a caped minidress by Maximilian Davis. On Saturday, Dakota Johnson attended another night at the Zurich Film Festival, appearing on stage in Switzerland wearing a minidress from Maximilian Daviss Ferragamo fall 2025 collection. The charcoal gray bodice was draped in a black silk cape and ended in a short black hemline. She wore it with semi-sheer black stockings and knee-high black vinyl boots from Saint Laurent with massive six inch heels. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The actress wore her hair down and straight and a pair of pearl drop earrings. For makeup, she had on a subtle smokey eye and nude lip. Joshua Sammer - Getty Images Joshua Sammer - Getty Images Johnson was honored with the Golden Eye Award at the festival and was simultaneously presenting her new film, Splitsville. Johnson told Deadline about the project, I guess, off the bat, it reads as a comedy. Its about two couples and the challenging dynamics of their relationships individually, and then their relationships intertwined with each other. Its about the complexities of love. She added, Its less of a love triangle and more of a love experiment. Its enmeshed, codependent, incestuous, and all the while really deeply loving ultimately, but pretty fucked up a lot of the time. For her award ceremony, the star stunned in a transparent Gucci dress with a lace bodice and drop waist, filling out into a full skirt of royal blue fabric. She accessorized with Roberto Coin jewelry, including two statement rings, and was styled by Kate Young. Andreas Rentz - Getty Images As she accepted her award in the gorgeous look, Johnson said, Its festivals like these that support indie films and filmmakers and where the people that are coming to movies feel genuinely excited to be there. Thats what kind of keeps my heart beating for this industry. You Might Also Like Police in Pinellas Park say a Florida woman turned a party supply into a weapon during an unexpected restaurant altercation last week. According to an arrest affidavit obtained by Fox 13, 48-year-old Krystl Watts confronted a man at the OCC Road House on 49th Street North on Thursday night. Instead of using her words, police allege Watts opted for Silly String, unloading the can on the man before hurling the empty container directly at his head. A woman faces criminal charges after Pinellas Park police say she used something meant for fun Silly String to attack a man at a restaurant. https://t.co/9CrwGiZeKA FOX 13 Tampa Bay (@FOX13News) September 23, 2025 COMPLEX SHOP: Shop the brands you love, anytime and anywhere. Uncover what's next. Buy. Collect. Obsess. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The makeshift projectile reportedly left the victim with a cut on his forehead, an injury that officers noted in their report. What sparked the confrontation is still unclearthe affidavit doesnt explain whether Watts and the man knew each other or if this was simply a spur-of-the-moment attack fueled by whatever mood leads someone to weaponize a can of Silly String in a crowded restaurant. Watts was taken into custody and charged with misdemeanor battery. She was booked into Pinellas County Jail and later released after posting bond, according to court records. The victim was treated at the scene for his injury. The case caught attention because Silly String is typically associated with birthday parties, parades, or prank videosnot police reports. Its definitely unusual, one officer said, noting that novelty items rarely end up in affidavits tied to battery charges. At this point, investigators havent offered additional details on what led to the confrontation or whether more charges could follow. For now, Watts is facing a misdemeanor charge, and her court date will determine the next steps. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement If convicted, Watts could face up to one year in prison, as well as fines of up to $1,000. Depending on her previous criminal record, however, Watts may just be subjected to probation, community service, or requisite mental health counseling. As of this writing, the Pinellas Park Police Department hasnt released any further updates. Related News Florida Woman Tousles 5-Foot Alligator With Bare Hands to Save Her Puppy , Florida Man Arrested for Credit Card Fraud While Dressed as Chuck E. Cheese , Florida Man Arrested After Assaulting a Woman Who Refused to Let Him Smell Her Feet Related News Woman Faces 20 Years After Alleged Outburst on Flight Led to Her Being Duct-Taped to Seat Two Detainees Reportedly Killed at Dallas ICE Facility After Possible Sniper Shooting COMPLEX SHOP: Shop the brands you love, anytime and anywhere. Uncover what's next. Buy. Collect. Obsess. Making Culture Pop. Find the latest entertainment news and the best in music, pop culture, sneakers, style and original shows. Tyra Spaulding, who once competed for the Miss Universe Jamaica crown, has died at 26. Local outlet Caribbean National Weekly reported that her relatives found her unresponsive in her apartment on September 23. Police are treating the case as a suspected suicide. The Miss Universe Jamaica team addressed her passing on Instagram the following day. Alongside a runway clip of Spaulding dazzling in a yellow gown, they wrote that the organization was heartbroken over losing someone whose light, grace, beauty and kind spirit touched every life she encountered. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They added that her smile lit up every room, and that their thoughts remain with her family and loved ones. COMPLEX SHOP: Shop the brands you love, anytime and anywhere. Uncover what's next. Buy. Collect. Obsess. Messages of sympathy quickly filled the comment section beneath the tribute post. Supporters sent prayers to Spauldings family and thanked the pageant for honoring her memory. Weeks before her death, Spaulding openly shared her mental health battle on YouTube. According to Us Weekly, in a video posted September 4, she described feeling locked in a constant fight with her own thoughts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Every day I get up, my mind tells me to go and jump off a building. It tells me to go and overdose on pills. It tells me to go and hang myself, she said, adding that she didnt know why those urges had begun. Do I want to die? I mean, it would be easier than having to deal with the ups and downs of life but right now I am fighting for my life. She also wondered aloud how many others might be living with the same kind of pain. Its like theres two different mes, she said in the clip. One of them wants me to live and one of them wants me to die. Its me against me over here. If you or someone you care about is struggling with thoughts of suicide, free and confidential help is available 24/7. In the United States, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Related News NFL Star Chris Hubbard Marks World Suicide Prevention Day With Heartfelt Message , Retired NFL Star Rudi Johnson Dead at 45, Cause of Death Under Investigation , Former Miss Universe Contestant Gored to Death By Elk Crashing Through Her Windshield Related News Woman Faces 20 Years After Alleged Outburst on Flight Led to Her Being Duct-Taped to Seat Two Detainees Reportedly Killed at Dallas ICE Facility After Possible Sniper Shooting COMPLEX SHOP: Shop the brands you love, anytime and anywhere. Uncover what's next. Buy. Collect. Obsess. Making Culture Pop. Find the latest entertainment news and the best in music, pop culture, sneakers, style and original shows. NEED TO KNOW Navarone Garibaldi Garcia is the only son of Priscilla Presley Presley and her then-partner, Marco Garibaldi, welcomed Navarone in 1987 In February 2022, Garcia married his longtime girlfriend Elisa Achilli The love between a mother and son is strong which is something Priscilla Presley discussed in her 2025 memoir, Softly as I Leave You: Life After Elvis. In the book, she opens up about her family and children, including her son, Navarone Garibaldi Garcia. There, Presley wrote about helping Garcia through drug addiction and his near-death experience mere days before the death of his sister, Lisa Marie Presley. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Presley and her former partner, music producer Marco Garibaldi, welcomed Garcia four years into their relationship in 1987. While Presley and Garibaldi parted ways for good in 2006 and Garcia no longer has a relationship with his father, he and his mother have remained close. "I got in trouble more than everybody else, because kids' parents would find out who my mom was, and they'd want a reason to talk to her," he told PEOPLE in February 2023. "I wasn't very comfortable with it." Like his older sister and father, Garcia has also launched a music career of his own and has been performing with the band Them Guns since 2012. Here is everything to know about Priscilla Presleys son Navarone Garcia. He was born in 1987 Ralph Dominguez/MediaPunch/Getty Priscilla Presley and her son. Priscilla Presley and her son. Presley gave birth to Garcia in 1987 over 21 years after her first child, daughter Lisa Marie, was born. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Soon after Garcias arrival, an ex of Garibaldis called Presley and told her, [Garibaldi is] not who you think he is. As Garcia later explained to PEOPLE, My mom pretty much said, 'Don't call here again,' because she didn't know what to do with that information. Though Presley and Garibaldi never married, they were a couple for over 20 years before splitting in 2006. He is a musician and performs with the band Them Guns Like his sister and his father before him, Garcia is also a musician. He was in a band as a teen and formed the group Them Guns in 2012. However, Garcia quickly recognized that a successful career isn't easy to pull off. Garcia told PEOPLE, I thought, 'OK, I'm going into the family business. I'll write a song, and then we'll start touring it.' I didn't realize it takes way more than that. Garcia found out more about his fathers background in 2017 Paul Archuleta/FilmMagic Priscilla Presley and her son Navarone Garibaldi attend the 11th Annual Celebration of Dreams Gala. Priscilla Presley and her son Navarone Garibaldi attend the 11th Annual Celebration of Dreams Gala. Growing up, Garcia believed his father was from a wealthy Italian family. But in 2017, he was contacted by a teenager from Brazil who claimed they were "cousins." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Garcia later earned his dad had come to the United States from Brazil not Italy and changed his last name from Garcia to Garibaldi after being told he'd never make it in Hollywood with a Hispanic last name. After Garcia asked Garibaldi about the name change, his dad replied, Lose my number, Garcia told PEOPLE. That was the last time the two spoke. However, losing a relationship with his father has not stopped Garcia from pursuing a relationship with his fathers family in Brazil. He continued, I lost one family member, but I gained 20-plus. I have zero regrets. He married Elisa Achilli in 2022 Priscilla Presley Instagram Elisa Achilli and Navarone Garcia. Elisa Achilli and Navarone Garcia. On Feb. 15, 2022, Garcia married his longtime girlfriend Elisa Achilli in her home country of Switzerland. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I never thought I would find a counterpart that is so understanding and supportive," Garcia told PEOPLE following the nuptials. "She makes everything we do effortless, and I can't imagine life without her. Achilli added, Navarone is truly the most genuine, sweet and sensitive man I have ever known and I'm so lucky that after four years of long-distance, we can start our life together as husband and wife. Presley, who also attended her son's big day, said of the newlyweds, They've been together for four years and we've all have been waiting patiently for this day. He once struggled with addiction Gregg DeGuire/WireImage Priscilla Presley and son Navarone. Priscilla Presley and son Navarone. Weeks after his older sister Lisa Marie unexpectedly died, Garcia opened up about his own struggles with substance abuse and addiction to PEOPLE, which he said date back to when he was in high school. As a teen, Garcia began using heroin before becoming addicted to fentanyl. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I was under the impression I was doing heroin, but then it'd turn out to be fentanyl. That was a whole different beast. I became so addicted that I'd need it every 45 minutes," he told PEOPLE in February 2023. With the help of his now-wife, Garcia got clean in 2020. He explained, When COVID happened, I wanted to go [to Switzerland] and see her for more than three or four days. I didn't want to have to bring a pound of fentanyl with me anywhere I went. I buckled down and said, 'Let's see how bad this can get. I was pretty much in my bed in the fetal position all day. It feels like a different lifetime, almost. The whole world got a lot better [afterward]. In a September 2025 interview with PEOPLE, Presley recounted helping Garcia through fentanyl and heroin withdrawal. She said, after his detox from heroin, Garcia has "been sober ever since." "I'm really happy for him," Priscilla added. "He's in a good place. We made it." He has been by fascinated by reptiles since childhood Music isnt all that Garcia is passionate about. In 2016, Garcia showcased his collection of reptiles, which includes snakes and lizards, on Vimeo. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "It's a big passion of mine that I've had since I was a little kid," Garcia said as he introduced his snakes to the camera. He also said of his interest, "Music and reptiles have always been side by side." He attended his half-sister Lisa Marie Presley's funeral at Graceland in January 2023 David Becker/WireImage Lisa Marie Presley, Priscilla Presley and Navarone Garibaldi. Lisa Marie Presley, Priscilla Presley and Navarone Garibaldi. Garcia was among those who attended the funeral of Lisa Marie in late January 2023. The service was held at Elvis Presleys Tennessee home Graceland, and Garcia was joined by his mother and Lisa Maries surviving children. After Lisa Marie's death, Garcia shared a photo of the pair from his childhood in a since-deleted post on Instagram and wrote, Big sister i hope you are now at peace and happy with your Dad and your son by your side. I know the past couple years werent easy for you, and I wish things had been different between us. regardless, you are my sister and Im sending love and prayers for your journey home. I still cant believe this, Im lost for words. Love you sis. Beijos. . Read the original article on People It looks like Taylor Swift made it to Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco's wedding! In photos obtained by TMZ, the pop star appeared to be seen arriving at the Santa Barbara airport and exiting her private jet on Friday, Sept. 26. However, its still unclear if the woman in the photo is actually her. Since then, both Vogue and Us Weekly have confirmed the pop star's attendance, and she reportedly went to both the ceremony on Saturday, Sept. 27 and the couple's rehearsal dinner the night before. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The wedding took place at a private estate in Montecito, California. It is unclear if Swift attended as a guest or as a bridesmaid. When Gomez and Blanco announced their engagement via Instagram in December 2024, Swift jokingly commented, "Yes I will be the flower girl." RELATED: All the Celebrities at Selena Gomez and Benny Blancos Wedding Was Travis Kelce Swift's Wedding Date? Most likely not. The Kansas City Chiefs play the Baltimore Ravens at home on the afternoon of Sunday, Sept. 28. The bigger question is if Swift makes it back from the wedding in time to attend her fiancees game. How Did Swift and Gomez Become Friends? The duo became friends in 2008 after meeting on a double date with Joe and Nick Jonas, who the girls were dating at the time. After both couples broke up, Swift and Gomez bonded over their breakups and the rest is history. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We actually dated the Jonas Brothers together! It was hysterical," Gomez told KISS FM UK in 2017. "It was amazing, because [Taylor] was the girl with the big curly hair and all the bracelets and the cowboy boots. And I was definitely up-and-coming, and we just clicked." "It was the best thing we got out of those relationships," she added during a recent episode of the Therapuss podcast. SIGN UP for Parades Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox This story was originally reported by Parade on Sep 28, 2025, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Parade as a Preferred Source by clicking here. The Appalachian Trail in Connecticut stretches more than 50 miles across Litchfield County, winding through the hardwood forests and scenic landscapes of towns like Kent, Sharon and Canaan. Kristen Valenti, an educator and avid hiker, has trekked every inch of the Connecticut section's challenging trails and mountains nearly a dozen times. "It's some of the most beautiful areas to hike in our state," says the Avon resident and high school math teacher. "And it's so accessible no matter what level of hiker you are." Kristen Valenti on the Appalachian Trail on Bear Mountain in Salisbury. (Courtesy of Kristen Valenti/ Early Bird on the Trail) After years of tackling some of the highest peaks in New England with her two trail dogs in tow, Valenti now leads small groups on hikes through some of the most rugged trails in Connecticut. She runs her own hiking club, Early Bird on the Trail, and says the Appalachian Trail in Connecticut - with its variety of terrain and striking vistas - is by far among the most popular. A sign for the Appalachian Trail in Connecticut. (Courtesy of Kristen Valenti/ Early Bird on the Trail) "It just offers a great mix of challenging terrain with natural beauty that's really appealing all year around," Valenti says. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The full Appalachian Trail extends almost 2,200 miles through 14 states along the eastern United States. From Springer Mountain in Georgia to Mount Katahdin in Maine, it's the longest hiking-only footpath in the world, according to the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, a nonprofit group that protects and manages the trail. It was the first in the nation to be named a National Scenic Trail by an Act of the Congress in 1968, the group says. The Connecticut section of the trail runs from Sherman at the New York state line to the brook crossing at Sage's Ravine, just north of the Massachusetts state line at Salisbury. It travels up the Housatonic River Valley and twice crosses the river. Gabi Cerra on the Appalachian Trail along the Connecticut-Massachusetts border in Salisbury. (Courtesy of Gabi Cerra) Noted for its forested landscape, the region's rocky hills, ravines and waterfalls have been attracting veteran hikers and wilderness newbies since Ned K. Anderson first spearheaded Connecticut's leg of the Appalachian Trail from 1929 to 1932, according to the Connecticut Forest & Park Association. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Highlights along the trail include the lush terrain that hugs the Housatonic River through Gaylordsville and Kent and the rolling hills that dot a five mile stretch from Great Falls to Mount Prospect with its spectacular waterfall views in Falls Village. Gabi Cerra hiking Mount Katahdin in Maine. (Courtesy of Gabi Cerra) "Some parts of the trail can get pretty challenging even for seasoned hikers," says Gabi Cerra. The 24-year-old from Southington used the Appalachian Trail's rocky footing and tricky stream crossings to train for a hike she completed in 2023 that stretched 430 miles over 35 days. That trek started at the halfway point of the full Appalachian Trail in Harpers Ferry, West Virginia and took her through six states, including all 56 miles of the Connecticut portion of the trail. Kristen Valenti on the Appalachian Trail at Lion's Head in Salisbury. (Courtesy of Kristen Valenti/ Early Bird on the Trail) "The trick is to train and be prepared and not be afraid to go slow," says Cerra, a marketing strategist and founder of Mtn Marketing Co. "The trails in most locations are well maintained and pretty accessible for even beginners." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Maintaining the quality of the trail falls to groups like the Connecticut chapter of the Appalachian Mountain Club, a conservation group dedicated to protecting mountains and forests in the state. The mostly volunteer organization works with the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) and the Appalachian Trail Conservancy on trail maintenance, including removing fallen trees and branches to clear paths for hikers, managing vegetation by removing invasive species, and cleaning out water bars (structures that divert water off the trail into the surrounding vegetation) to prevent trail erosion. Kristen Valenti on the Appalachian Trail at Lion's Head in Salisbury. (Courtesy of Kristen Valenti/ Early Bird on the Trail) The frequency and intensity of storms is among the biggest challenges, says Dave Boone, chair of the Connecticut chapter of the Appalachian Trail Conservancy. "A warming planet increases the strength and frequency of these storms and that leads to severe damage to trail infrastructure," he says. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Minimizing the human impact on the trail is another critical goal of conservation groups, including reminding hikers to pack out all trash, stay on the trail, and avoid altering the natural surroundings. "Hikers need to be aware that their actions have a direct impact on our work," says Boone, who advocates a "leave no trace" philosophy. "Leave nothing but footprints, take nothing but photos," he says. Most people hike the Appalachian Trail in Connecticut through section hiking where you carve out small sections of the trail to tackle over the course of five to 10 days depending on your skill level. Gabi Cerra on the Appalachian Trail in Cornwall. (Courtesy of Gabi Cerra) That's how Mary Anne Hardy made the journey with a friend four years ago. The author and educator mapped out a six-day plan that included parking lot-to-parking lot sections. That's when a car drops you off at the start of one section and another car picks you up at the end of the section in order to avoid having to travel back to the drop off location. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I used a set of detailed, waterproof topographic maps from National Geographic, a little help from Google and the identification of a base motel where we'd stay for each of the hikes," she wrote in a blog post for the Connecticut chapter of the Appalachian Mountain Club. Hardy began with a 12-mile trek from the southernmost point of the Appalachian Trail in Gaylordsville to Route 341 near Kent where the elevation reached 2,000 feet in some spots. Kristen Valenti on the Appalachian Trail at Rand's View in Salisbury. (Courtesy of Kristen Valenti/ Early Bird on the Trail) Over the next five days the trips ranged from four to twelve miles through Kent and Salisbury and included forested areas with mostly hardwoods to battling the tricky stream crossings of the trails that hugged the Housatonic River. The final day included reaching the summit of Bear Mountain at 2,323 feet. Valenti also recommends section-hiking even for the most skilled hikers to help them control their pace. "It's one of the best ways to hike the entire trail because it allows for proper preparation," says Valenti, who recently covered the entire Connecticut portion of the trail in a seven day journey. "Hiking should be challenging but it should also be an enjoyable experience so moderately sized hikes are perfect for that." NEED TO KNOW In 2017, British journalist Alice Taylor arrived in Albania for a short visit, not knowing it would change the course of her life Drawn in by the countrys warmth, culture and unexpected sense of belonging, she decided to stay What followed was a journey of reinvention, resilience and storytelling in a place she now calls home When journalist Alice Taylor boarded a plane from Cyprus for a spontaneous weekend getaway to Albania in 2017, she had no idea it would change the course of her life. Born and educated in the United Kingdom, she had already taken several bold leaps first moving to Malta for what was meant to be a short gap year, then leaving a stable job in legal communications to pursue journalism with nothing but a cracked iPad and sheer determination. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After nearly a decade in Malta, where she built a budding career in local media and even gained her own popular opinion column, Taylor found herself craving a deeper sense of purpose and connection. It was in Albania, during a brief weekend trip, that something clicked. Despite knowing little about the country, the language or its people, she felt instantly at home. Now, at age 38, Taylors built not only a successful journalism career but also a life enriched by family, friends and a deep love for a country that was once completely unfamiliar. Alice Taylor Alice Taylor. Alice Taylor. Although she originally planned to stay in Albania for less than four days, an ear infection on her second day there sent her to a local doctor in Tirana, the capital, and they suggested she postpone her flight to allow for recovery. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement With a prescription in hand, she headed to the pharmacy but was quickly sidetracked. I ended up having coffee in Pazar i Ri, where the waitress and a table with two older gentlemen befriended me, Taylor tells PEOPLE exclusively. They didnt speak English and I didnt speak Albanian, but we communicated the best we could. They ended up offering her two glasses of raki a traditional, popular drink within Balkan countries. Despite being small in volume, the drink notably has a high alcohol content and left her feeling lightheaded. Nevertheless, she headed back to her hotel to rebook her flight, but instead of adding three days, she accidentally added three weeks. Alice Taylor Alice Taylor. Alice Taylor. It was too expensive to change it again, so I decided to stay and enjoy the country. At the end of the three weeks, I booked another ticket to come back and returned two weeks later with all my possessions in suitcases and my two cats, she reveals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement From the moment I came to Albania, I felt safe, happy, inspired and at home, despite the cultural and language differences. I was so inspired by the history and culture, and the people were so welcoming. I knew it was where I was supposed to be. Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. Alice Taylor Alice Taylor in action. Alice Taylor in action. In the beginning, the language was a challenge, but she began learning and eventually became conversational though the grammar still keeps her on her toes. The language is beautiful but very complicated. I have ADHD and find studying hard and after trying a few lessons, I decided the best way to learn was through doing, Taylor says. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I have learned various dialects and can recognize accents from around the country. I may not be grammatically perfect or completely fluent yet, but I feel I have benefited from learning in this holistic way. Adjusting to a new culture and navigating unfamiliar systems wasnt easy, but the warmth of the people made the transition smoother. With eight years under her belt, shes now an Albanian citizen, raising an Albanian child. When you understand that you belong somewhere and everything happens for a reason, all these little bumps in the road become insignificant and just part of life, Taylor shares. Alice Taylor Alice Taylor and Sali Berisha on her show, 'Inside Albania.' Alice Taylor and Sali Berisha on her show, 'Inside Albania.' In addition to being a wife, mother and caregiver to her elderly mother, Taylor has built a remarkable media career in Albania. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In 2019, she launched the country's first podcast called Explaining Albania, which, in 2023, with the support of Euronews Albania, evolved into the country's first and only English-language current affairs show, Inside Albania. Aimed at offering a foreign perspective on Albanian issues, her interviews feature key political figures, including Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama and international names such as John Bolton, Roberta Metsola, and Dritan Abazovic. I invite guests, let them talk, and hope the interview serves as a point in time and history, for people to judge for themselves, and for the guests to be held accountable, Taylor explains. I often do not script questions and follow my own natural curiosity, following on from the guests' answers. The show is widely watched in the diplomatic and international community in Albania, as well as with local politicians from every party. Alice Taylor Alice Taylor reporting live. Alice Taylor reporting live. Today, her work spans far beyond broadcasting. She is also a freelance editor for POLITICO, a correspondent for international media such as BBC and The Times, and works as a freelance editor and journalist for various other European outlets. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She also teaches communications and public relations in the private sector and dedicates part of her time each month to mentoring young people and speaking at events, including TEDx talks. Balancing all of this alongside family responsibilities is challenging, but shes managed with resilience and support from her husband even when she had to do it all alone. I was lucky to be surrounded by wonderful friends, and even kind, friendly strangers who made the tough times easier to manage, Taylor says. Alice Taylor Alice Taylor in front of the camera. Alice Taylor in front of the camera. Taylor has written three books about Albania, including her latest, Inside Albania. She's also published around 5,000 articles, produced podcasts, films and documentaries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Everything I do is with passion passion to provide for my daughter, to inspire her, to make her proud and to make Albania proud, Taylor emphasizes. When it is a passion, it is no longer a job, but a purpose in life. Fluent in both English and Albanian, 6-year-old Dea has a deep love for exploring the country, learning about its history and embracing its culture, just like her mother. She proudly wears traditional outfits and enjoys singing Albanian songs. Alice Taylor Alice Taylor and her daughter, Dea, dressed in traditional Albanian clothing. Alice Taylor and her daughter, Dea, dressed in traditional Albanian clothing. She has been brought up here and knows no different, Taylor says. She is aware of her British heritage and we visited the UK recently, but she said she prefers Albania. Recently, Taylor invited her daughters class to Euronews Albania for a behind-the-scenes look at how television is made, where the children took part in mock interviews and explored the studio with wide-eyed excitement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I asked the 35 children what their favorite place was and [Dea] was the only one who said somewhere in Albania - Tropoje to be exact, Taylor reveals. All the other kids said Italy, U.S., Germany, UKOnly Dea mentioned Albania. Alice Taylor Alice Taylor dressed in traditional Albanian clothing. Alice Taylor dressed in traditional Albanian clothing. Since moving to Albania, Taylor has experienced her fair share of culture shocks from the strong belief in wearing socks or slippers indoors and avoiding wet hair outdoors, to realizing that what may sound like arguing to outsiders is often just Albanians speaking with passion and affection. Being active on social media, Taylor regularly shares these observations through unfiltered Instagram posts, where she debunks common myths about the country. One of the biggest misconceptions she addresses is safety, and despite wide assumptions, she emphasizes to PEOPLE that she has never felt unsafe. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Another is the outdated view that Albania lacks modern infrastructure, when in fact it has all the essentials of a contemporary European country, just with its own "quirks. It might sound cliche and you might roll your eyes, but I could not imagine being anywhere else, Taylor admits. This country has given me so much Dea, love, inspiration, creativity and I want to give it all back in every way I can. For Taylor, Albania is far more than just where she lives its where she feels most alive. I could not imagine living anywhere else. This is my home and will remain so, she says. Alice Taylor Alice Taylor showing off her book, 'Inside Albania.' Alice Taylor showing off her book, 'Inside Albania.' Every day brings a new surprise, whether its a beautiful, hidden corner of the country or an unexpected conversation that leaves a lasting impression. I do not see the same color, vibrancy and life in other countries I visit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Learning the language opened doors to deeper connections and allowed her to hear stories of resilience, strength and survival often shared by people she meets on buses, in villages or simply walking through town. These moments fuel her work as a journalist, writer and artist. I find myself continually overwhelmed, as there are so many stories to tell, but there is only one of me, she says. I cannot do it all, but I wish I could! Still, Taylor remains committed to capturing as much as she can, because Albania is a gem and there is so much more I need to discover and document. Read the original article on People Nothing is better than chocolate, but not all chocolate is created equal. Some varieties are chalky and bland, while others are melt-in-your-mouth delicacies with robust flavors and that perfect snap. Belgian chocolate falls in the latter camp, with the country making some of the best in the world. We spoke with Ed McCormick, food scientist, entrepreneur, and owner of Cape Crystal Brands about why. "Centuries of tradition have trained Belgian chocolatiers as masters of roasting and conching chocolate into its smooth melt," McCormick explains. "This is exactly why, combined with its stringent quality requirements, Belgium has been awarded by some as having the world's best chocolate." In terms of method, the last step in the chocolate-making process is conching, which transforms cocoa paste into the silky smooth craft chocolate we know today. Where mass market companies might conch the chocolate for hours, high-quality chocolatiers, like Belgians, conch the chocolate for days. This time difference is crucial for improving texture and enhancing taste. Belgium is truly "Chocolate Country." As The New York Times revealed, "The domestic market alone is formidable; Belgium has one of the world's highest chocolate consumption rates, at an average of more than 15 pounds per person per year." Not only that, there are chocolatiers on basically every corner; and craft chocolate isn't so much a rare indulgence as it is a daily treat. "This culture pushes chocolatiers to uphold high standards, and it is why innovation and quality continue to be so prevalent in Belgium," says McCormick. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read more: 11 Dark Chocolate Bars, Ranked Belgian chocolate's cocoa butter standard Belgian chocolate is stirred in a conching machine - Mario Hoesel/Shutterstock The finest dark chocolate requires just cocoa butter, cacao (roasted beans from the remarkable cacao fruit), and sugar. Today, however, some large-scale chocolate companies use vegetable fats or fillers to supplement cocoa butter, leading to a distorted flavor and different texture. But Belgium will never go the way of the alternative fat. In 1894, the country established the world's first chocolate decree, requiring chocolate to contain 35% pure cocoa solids. And, in 2000, when the European Union gave the European Cocoa and Chocolate Directive, stating chocolate could contain up to 5% vegetable fats, Belgium and France fought back. Belgium launched the international trademark and label Ambao, granting chocolatiers worldwide the opportunity to align their own chocolate production with country's government-defined quality standards: no GMOs, no fats other than the milk fat found in chocolate, and no synthetic flavors. "Cocoa butter is what gives chocolate snap, shine, and a lush melt and keeping it pure is one of the chief reasons Belgian chocolate tastes so indulgent and feels so indulgent to eat compared to brands that use cheaper fat blends," Ed McCormick says. The trick to tell if chocolate is high quality is listening for a snap when you break off a piece which you'll hear from Belgian chocolate, every time. If you want to enjoy Belgian chocolate at home (Of course, there's a right way to eat craft chocolate), look out for brands like Godiva, Leonidas, Neuhaus, and Pierre Marcolini. As McCormick puts it, "Each brand showcases a different facet of Belgium's chocolate identity, whether heritage or innovation." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For more food and drink goodness, join The Takeout's newsletter. Get taste tests, food & drink news, deals from your favorite chains, recipes, cooking tips, and more! Read the original article on The Takeout. At least two people have died and eight others were injured following a mass shooting and fire at a church in Grand Blanc, Michigan, on Sunday, Sept. 28, police said. The incident occurred Sunday morning at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, according to a post from the Grand Blanc Township Police Department. Grand Blanc Township Police Chief William Renye said at a 5 p.m. news conference that seven victims are stable while one is in critical condition. Renye identified the shooter as 40-year-old Thomas Jacob Sanford of Burton. Sanford died after exchanging gunfire with responding officers in the church's parking lot. Smoke billows from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc, Michigan, where police say a mass shooting took place on Sunday, Sept. 28, 2025. Federal law enforcement, including officials from the FBI and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, responded to the scene, Attorney General Pam Bondi said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Grand Blanc is a city of 7,700 people, located about 60 miles northwest of Detroit. Here's what to know about the shooting. Who is Thomas Jacob Sanford: What we know about the Michigan church shooting suspect A silver truck is seen outside of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as local authorities work to contain a fire on Sunday, Sept. 28, 2025. A family emotionally reunites at the Trillium Theater located across the street from the site of a shooting and fire at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on Sept. 28, 2025 in Grand Blanc, Mich. People gather at the site as smoke and fire rise, following an incident in which a man crashed his vehicle through the front doors of a Michigan church and opened fire with an assault rifle and set the church ablaze, in Grand Blanc, Mich., Sept. 28, 2025, in this screengrab obtained from social media video. Emergency personnel work at the scene of a shooting which took place at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, in Grand Blanc, Mich.,Sept. 28, 2025. Church members and residents reunite at Trillium Theater located across the street from the site of a shooting and fire at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on Sept. 28, 2025 in Grand Blanc, Mich. The burned church building is seen as emergency services respond to a shooting and fire at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on Sept. 28, 2025 in Grand Blanc, Mich. Emergency services respond to a shooting and fire at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on Sept. 28, 2025 in Grand Blanc, Mich. A member of the FBI speaks to children outside of NCG Trillium Cinema, which is acting as a reunification center following a shooting and a fire at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc Township on Sunday, Sept. 28, 2025. Emergency services respond to a shooting and fire at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on Sept. 28, 2025 in Grand Blanc, Mich. An FBI Evidence Response Team agent inspects the suspect's truck outside the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc, Mich., on Sept. 28, 2025. Emergency services are seen near the intersection of Holly Road and McCandlish Road in Grand Blanc Township on Sunday, Sept 28, 2025. A group holds hands in a circle outside of NCG Trillium Cinema, which is acting as a reunification center, following a shooting and a fire at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc Township on Sunday, Sept. 28, 2025. A person sits outside of NCG Trillium Cinema, which is acting as a reunification center, following a shooting and a fire at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc on Sunday, Sept. 28, 2025. People embrace outside of NCG Trillium Cinema, which is acting as a reunification center following a shooting and a fire at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc on Sunday, Sept. 28, 2025. A firefighter walks down the street where emergency services are responding to a shooting and fire at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on Sept. 28, 2025 in Grand Blanc Township. Davison Township Police block an intersection near the The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc Township as smoke billows in the background on Sunday, Sept. 28, 2025. An officer motions to vehicles on a street where emergency services respond to a shooting and fire at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on Sept. 28, 2025 in Grand Blanc Township. Family members of people in attendance at this morning's service look on as emergency services respond to a shooting and fire at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on Sept. 28, 2025 in Grand Blanc Township. A police officer tapes off an area on the street of a shooting and fire at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on Sept. 28, 2025 in Grand Blanc Township. The Michigan State Police bomb squad deploy a robot near a home on East Atherton Road in Burton on Sunday, Sept. 28, 2025. Community members and supporters gather in Burton, Michigan, on the night of Sept. 28 for a scheduled prayer vigil honoring the life of Charlie Kirk, following a nearby mass shooting in Grand Blanc Township. Community members and supporters gather in Burton, Michigan, on the night of Sept. 28 for a scheduled prayer vigil honoring the life of Charlie Kirk, following a nearby mass shooting in Grand Blanc Township. Community members and supporters gather in Burton, Michigan, on the night of Sept. 28 for a scheduled prayer vigil honoring the life of Charlie Kirk, following a nearby mass shooting in Grand Blanc Township. Scenes in Michigan as police, community respond to Mormon church shooting and fire 1 of 23 A silver truck is seen outside of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as local authorities work to contain a fire on Sunday, Sept. 28, 2025. What happened in the Grand Blanc, Michigan church shooting and fire? Emergency services are seen near the intersection of Holly Road and McCandlish Road in Grand Blanc Township on Sunday, Sept 28, 2025. At the time of the shooting, Grand Blanc Township Police Chief William Renye said hundreds of people were attending Sunday service at the church. The suspect, later identified as Sanford, used an assault rifle, according to police. Responding officers "engaged in gunfire" with the suspect, according to Renye. "That suspect is no longer with us," Renye said. Officials initially said the church was on fire, and people were evacuated. At 12:43 p.m. ET, the Grand Blanc Police reported that the blaze was contained. Who is suspected in the church shooting? The Grand Blanc Township police department following a shooting at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc Township on Sunday, Sept. 28, 2025. Renye said that the shooter, identified at the 5 p.m. news conference as Sanford, drove his vehicle through the the church. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He then exited the vehicle and fired "several rounds" at people inside the church," Renye added. The victims were transported to nearby hospitals. The suspected gunman died at the scene after exchanging gunfire with two responding officers, police said. Police said they will be conducting search warrants on the suspect's residence and look into cellphone records. Several law enforcement agencies were assisting local authorities in the investigation, including the FBI, Michigan State Police, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Trump, Michigan governor respond to shooting Davison Township Police block an intersection near the The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc Township as smoke billows in the background on Sunday, Sept. 28, 2025. Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer acknowledged the shooting in a statement on X, stating that officials are monitoring the situation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "My heart is breaking for the Grand Blanc community. Violence anywhere, especially in a place of worship, is unacceptable," Whitmer wrote. "I am grateful to the first responders who took action quickly. We will continue to monitor the situation and hold the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in Grand Blanc close." In a post on Truth Social, President Donald Trump called the incident "horrendous" and a "targeted attack on Christians in the United States of America." "PRAY for the victims, and their families," Trump added. "THIS EPIDEMIC OF VIOLENCE IN OUR COUNTRY MUST END, IMMEDIATELY!" Shooting follows death of church's president Russell M. Nelson, a heart surgeon and president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, died on Sept. 27, 2025 at the age of 101. He's shown here as a student at Roosevelt Junior High in Salt Lake City, Utah in 1936. Russell M. Nelson, president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints shakes hands with Derrick Johnson, president and CEO of the NAACP, in the Church Administration Building in Salt Lake City, May 17, 2018. They are flanked by Rev. Amos C. Brown, NAACP board member, far left, and NAACP chairman Leon W. Russell, far right. Russell M. Nelson, president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, stops for a photo before rededicating the Manti Utah temple on April 21, 2024. Russell M. Nelson, president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints greets Tuimaleali'ifano Va'aletoa Sualauvi II, the Samoan head of state on May 18, 2019. Russell M. Nelson, president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, speaks at the NAACP's 110th annual national convention in Detroit, Michigan, on July 21, 2019. Pope Francis greets Russell M. Nelson, president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints at the Vatican on March 9, 2019. Russell M. Nelson, president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, shakes hands with Naserldeen Mofarih, Minister of Endowment and Religious Affairs for the Republic of Sudan, on May 19, 2021. Russell M. Nelson, president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, holds the hand of Agustin Escobar, 5, as the boy prepares to place mortar on the cornerstone of the church's temple in Concepcion Chile on Oct. 28, 2018. Sajit Singh, a member of the Sikh community, shakes hands with Russell M. Nelson, president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, as interfaith leaders visit prior to a devotional in Singapore on Nov. 20, 2019. Latter-day Saint children meet Russell M. Nelson, president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, in Kona, Hawaii on May 16. 2019. Russell M. Nelson, president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, greets Dr. Mohammad Abdulkarim Al-Issa, secretary-general of the Muslim World League on Nov. 5, 2019. Russell M. Nelson, president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, receives the first dose of a COVID-19 vaccine in Salt Lake City, Utah on Jan. 19, 2021. Russell M. Nelson was the general Sunday School president for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in 1971. Utah heart surgeon Russell M. Nelson in 1982, before being called to serve as an apostle for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in April 1984. Utah heart surgeon Russell M. Nelson in 1982, before being called to serve as an apostle for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in April 1984. President Russell M. Nelson of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints answers questions from the press after being announced as the 17th president of the Church in January 2018 in Salt Lake City, Utah. Nelson replaced Thomas S. Monson as president. Russell M. Nelson, president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, awaits the start of a news conference with the leaders of the NAACP, at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints Administration Building on May 17, 2018 in Salt Lake City, Utah. The church and NAAP leaders, issued a joint statement after meeting to increase corporation on humanitarian efforts around the world and encourage people to bridge differences and come together. President Russell M. Nelson, prophet of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and his wife Wendy, wave to a crowd of nearly 70,000 people gathered for a devotional at the State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona on Sunday, Feb. 10, 2019. Russell M. Nelson, (right) an apostle of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints sits next to Dallin Oaks, as they wait for the start of the 187th semi-annual general conference of the church in Salt Lake City, Utah on Sept. 30, 2017. President Russell M. Nelson of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints dies at 101 1 of 19 Russell M. Nelson, a heart surgeon and president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, died on Sept. 27, 2025 at the age of 101. He's shown here as a student at Roosevelt Junior High in Salt Lake City, Utah in 1936. The shooting comes after the president of the church, Russell M. Nelson, died around 10 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 27. He was 101 years old. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nelson is survived by his wife, Wendy; eight of his 10 children from his first marriage; 57 grandchildren; and more than 167 great-grandchildren. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints stated that it is cooperating with authorities amid the ongoing investigation. We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of prayers and concern from so many people around the world. In moments of sorrow and uncertainty, we find strength and comfort through our faith in Jesus Christ," church spokesperson Doug Andersen said in a statement. "Places of worship are meant to be sanctuaries of peacemaking, prayer and connection. We pray for peace and healing for all involved." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This story has been updated to add new information. Taylor Ardrey is a news reporter for USA TODAY. You can reach her at tardrey@gannett.com. Contributing: Kathryn Palmer, Kristen Jordan Shamus, Karissa Waddick, USA TODAY NETWORK This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: 2 dead, 8 injured in Michigan church shooting, fire. What to know. OAK GROVE, Wis. (WFRV) A 22-year-old Wisconsin man was airlifted to an area hospital for life-threatening injuries after a serious motorcycle crash on Saturday afternoon. The Dodge County Sheriffs Office says deputies were dispatched to the reported single motorcycle crash on County Highway A south of County Highway S in Oak Grove around 2 p.m. on Saturday. 2 pronounced dead, 1 hospitalized in head-on crash on Wisconsin State Highway Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials say that initial investigations showed a 2025 Kawasaki motorcycle ridden by a 22-year-old Beaver Dam man wearing a helmet was going north at high speeds, losing control after passing by several others. The motorcycle went through the east side shoulder and a ditch, going airborne after hitting a culvert. The man was ejected from the motorcycle and hit a tree as the motorcycle came to a halt next to a home. The 22-year-old man was airlifted to a hospital with life-threatening injuries, and has also been arrested for suspected impairment. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFRV Local 5 - Green Bay, Appleton. SOUTHPORT, N.C. (WBTW) Three people are dead and at least eight are injured after someone aboard a boat opened fire into a crowd at a waterfront bar in Southport, North Carolina, on Saturday, according to authorities. Authorities were called around 9:30 p.m. to a shooting on the waterfront at the American Fish Company in Southport, located about 30 miles south of Wilmington. City officials said officers found multiple people with injuries at the scene. Police on Sunday charged Nigel Max Edge with three counts of first-degree murder and five counts of attempted first-degree murder, WWAY reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Before officers arrived, a boat with a single occupant traveling on the Cape Fear River paused outside of the restaurant, authorities said Sunday. The boater allegedly opened fire into a crowd on land, killing three and injuring at least eight. The boat then fled the area, towards the Intracoastal Waterway in the direction of Oak Island, officials said. News13 has a crew headed to the area. * * * Adam Benson joined the News13 digital team in January 2024. He is a veteran South Carolina reporter with previous stops at the Greenwood Index-Journal, Post & Courier and The Sun News in Myrtle Beach. Adam is a Boston native and University of Utah graduate. Follow Adam on X, formerly Twitter, at @AdamNewshound12. See more of his work here. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement * * * Madi Codispoti is a multimedia journalist at News13. Madi is a native of Spartanburg, South Carolina, and most recently worked at WJHL in Johnson City, Tennessee. She graduated from Emory & Henry University in May 2023. You can keep up with Madi on Facebook and read more of her work here. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WBTW. Three members of the Putman family, who once had their own TLC show, Meet the Putmans, have died in a car crash that also injured several others, the family said Saturday. Bill Papa Putman, his wife, Barb, who often goes by Neenee, and their daughter-in-law Megan were killed in the crash, a statement released by the family said. Several other family members, identified as Uncle Blake, Lulu, Alena, Noah and Gia, are in the hospital, the statement said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are asking for complete healing and strength for each of them, the statement said. The statement thanked people for their support and also asked for prayers for the whole family as we walk through this deep loss. Thank you for every prayer, message, and act of love. Your support means more than words can express, the statement said. The Tuscola County Sheriffs Office in Michigan confirmed a two-vehicle crash Friday night was the same incident referenced in the Putman family statement. The office said a southbound loaded commercial semi-truck failed to stop at a stop sign and collided with an eastbound Jeep that was carrying eight residents of nearby Cass City. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Three of the people in the Jeep died at the scene, and the other five were taken to hospitals, some in critical condition, it said. The driver and passenger in the semi-truck had minor injuries and were also taken to a hospital. The driver was arrested and is awaiting formal charges, the sheriffs office said. We are asking the public to please pay more attention when driving, the office said. We are having far too many crashes that are destroying peoples lives. Cass City is about 100 miles north of Detroit. Meet the Putmans aired for one season on TLC in 2017. It followed the family of 25 living together. TLC and Warner Bros. Discovery did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Though its TV run was short-lived, the family rebooted the series in 2021 on YouTube as Growing Up Putman. Following news of the crash, comments poured in on social media from viewers and fans. Im incredibly shaken to hear of this great tragedy. Your sweet Neenee, Papa, and Aunt Megan leave such a beautiful legacy and testimony, one person wrote on Instagram. Loved you all since your show and Im heartbroken for you prayers for all of you for peace and comfort, another added. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com Lebanon city officials report four victims, two of whom were children and one a teen, were found dead after crews battled a duplex fire that affected another six residents Sept. 28. At 8:43 a.m., Lebanon City fire crews were dispatched to 815 Church St. for a multiple dwelling fire with entrapment. There were 10 individuals inside the residence during the time of the fire, according to Lebanon Mayor Sherry Capello. Several of the residents were guests visiting for a birthday celebration. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "With deep regret, I must report that four victims have passed away, one remains in critical condition, and one is in stable condition," she said in a release Sept. 28. "The remaining four occupants escaped with minor injures." Capello added the four deceased victims were ages 1, 4, 17 and 73. Officials said names would be released at a later time. Lebanon city officials report four victims, two of whom were children and one a teen, were found dead after crews battled a duplex fire that affected another six residents Sept. 28. The fire originated from an electrical outlet in the first-floor living room, with Capello saying it was ruled accidental. The Pennsylvania State Police Fire Marshal's Office is assisting with the investigation. Several residents told the Lebanon Daily News that they could see smoke and flames billowing out of the duplex before fire crews arrived on scene. Upon arrival, both first and second floors of the were trapped inside the building. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lebanon Fire Chief Aaron "A.J." Sweitzer said crews found heavy fire and smoke, and a second alarm assignment was immediately requested. "When we arrived, we placed three in-lines in service and began fire suppression and search of those reported entrapped," he said. "During the first initial fire suppressions, we brought out three patients and they were transported to (WellSpan Good Samaritan Hospital)." Three more residents exited the duplex at the time of dispatch on their own before the fire department arrived, according to Sweitzer. Officials said that conditions began to deteriorate and crews were forced to withdraw. "We had to pull back from the building due to fire conditions becoming very uninhabitable for us," Sweitzer said. "We pulled out, and then we applied matching streams to the structure for about 15 (to) 20 minutes until we regained control of the situation. Then we went back in there and did more fire suppression, and searched for two more possible victims." Lebanon city officials report four victims, two of whom were children and one a teen, were found dead after crews battled a duplex fire that affected another six residents Sept. 28. Capello said another resident, who was not involved with the fire, collapsed on the sidewalk during the time of the incident. She was taken to Penn State Health Hershey Medical Center. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "On behalf of the City, I extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased," she said. "Words cannot capture the depth of our sorrow for their loss. Our thoughts and prayers remain with all those impacted by this devastating event." The American Red Cross and Salvation Army were on the scene to support the residents. Matthew Toth is a reporter for the Lebanon Daily News. Reach him at mtoth@ldnews.com or on X at @DAMattToth. This article originally appeared on Lebanon Daily News: 4 dead - 2 young children, a teen and an adult - after Lebanon PA fire Amir Amiri, an American citizen detained nine months ago in Afghanistan, was released Sunday and is on his way back to the United States, Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced. "Today we welcome home Amir Amiry, an American who was wrongfully detained in Afghanistan," wrote Rubio in a social media post. "I want to thank Qatar for helping secure his freedom." A source with knowledge of the release previously told CBS News that Qatari diplomats had coordinated with the office of the U.S. Special Envoy for Hostage Affairs to facilitate it. After the Taliban took control of Afghanistan in 2021, Qatar signed an accord to represent U.S. interests in the country. Before Amiri, it had helped secure the release of four other American citizens from Afghanistan earlier this year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Amiri was detained in December 2024. Qatar began negotiating for his release in March, at first arranging a meeting between Amiri and the U.S. Special Envoy Adam Boehler during his visit to Afghanistan, according to the source with knowledge of his release. Qatari diplomats monitored Amiri's health and maintained close communication with U.S. officials throughout his detention, the source told CBS News. Amir Amiri, second from left, was released Sunday, Sept. 28, after he was detained for nine months in Afghanistan. / Credit: Qatar Foreign Ministry Negotiations persisted for several months until Qatar reached a breakthrough this weekend, which resulted in Amiri's release, the source said. Two American citizens were freed in a prisoner swap between the U.S. and the Taliban in January, one of whom, Ryan Corbett, had been abducted in 2022 while on a work trip. The Taliban agreed to release them from Afghanistan in exchange for Khan Mohammed, a Taliban figure who had been imprisoned for life in California on drug trafficking and terrorism charges, officials told the Associated Press at the time. Another two Americans were released from Afghanistan in March. Faye Hall, who had been detained earlier in the year on charges of using an unauthorized drone, was arrested with a British couple who remained in Taliban custody, sources told CBS News after Hall's release. The British couple, Peter and Barbie Reynolds, were freed earlier this month. Separately, American George Glezmann was also freed in March after being detained during a tourist visit to Afghanistan in 2022, in a move that the former U.S. envoy to Afghanistan called "a goodwill gesture" to President Trump by the Taliban. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After Charlie Kirk assassination, Utah Gov. Cox urges U.S. away from division, violence Government shutdown likely, CBS News' Robert Costa says after conversation with Trump Why crickets are as good as a thermometer Borderlands Mexico is a weekly rundown of developments in the world of United States-Mexico cross-border trucking and trade. This week: Cargo theft surges in Q3 as criminals adopt new tactics; LG Innotek to invest $189M in new Queretaro plant; and Watco Logistics acquires Texas-based Colossal Transport. Cargo theft surges in Q3 as criminals adopt new tactics Cargo theft continues to escalate worldwide, with food, agriculture, and electronics among the top targets, according to a Q3 2025 report from BSI Consulting. The analysis shows hijackings accounted for nearly one-third of all global incidents, with hotspots in Brazil (30%), Mexico (17%), and India (11%). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Thieves are continually evolving their tactics. Companies must match that with rigorous verification, monitoring, and collaboration with cargo theft task forces, Tony Pelli, director of security and resilience at BSI Consulting, said in a news release. Join the leaders shaping freights future at F3: Future of Freight Festival, Oct 21-22. Network with the industrys best and discover whats next. Register now! In North America, Mexico remains the epicenter, accounting for 75% of thefts. Truck hijackings were the dominant method, representing 54% of all cases. Thieves are also adopting new methods, including staging intentional wrecks, deploying GPS jammers, and setting up fake police checkpoints. Authorities have also reported thieves disguising stolen fuel shipments and even infiltrating warehouses using stolen trucks near Mexico Citys Felipe Angeles International Airport. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The report also warns of an alarming rise in strategic theft schemes in the U.S., where criminals are using fake carrier placards to impersonate trucking companies. The tactics, often tied to cybersecurity breaches, pose both financial and reputational risks for legitimate carriers. Criminals may use temporary placards to impersonate stolen motor carrier identities and evade detection, the report noted, adding that such schemes are expected to become more common as organized groups adopt emerging technologies like AI and exploit system vulnerabilities. LG Innotek to invest $189M in new Queretaro plant Korean manufacturer LG Innotek will open a new production center in Queretaro, Mexico, with an investment of about $189 million, the state government said in a news release. The facility, located in the Kaizen Industrial Park, will produce cameras, LEDs, motors and automotive components. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In its first phase, the plant will employ 630 people, with expansion plans already underway. Watco Logistics acquires Texas-based Colossal Transport Watco Logistics announced it has acquired Spring, Texas-based Colossal Transport Solutions, a specialist in over-dimensional and heavy-haul freight. The deal strengthens Watcos multimodal project cargo capabilities across rail, road, barge and ocean transport, company officials said. Colossals deep industry knowledge and reputation for handling large-scale projects complements our ability to provide innovative, reliable, and flexible logistics services, Eric Wolfe, president of Watco Logistics, said in a news release. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Pittsburg, Kansas-based Watco Logistics, founded in 1983, provides rail, transloading, and logistics services for customers throughout North America and Australia. The post Borderlands Mexico: Cargo theft surges in Q3 as criminals adopt new tactics appeared first on FreightWaves. British-made drones will be deployed to create a drone wall to protect Nato from Russian aggression, the Defence Secretary has revealed. The new low-cost unmanned craft, developed in collaboration with Ukraine, are part of a new strategy to deter Vladimir Putins jets and drones on the alliances eastern flank. European ministers are concerned about a spate of Russian incursions into Polish and Estonian airspace, which prompted Britain to deploy RAF Typhoons over Poland in a show of force to Moscow. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A suspected Russian hybrid incursion of drones this week took place in Denmark and Norway. On Saturday, it was reported that overnight unidentified drones were seen over the Karlskrona archipelago in Sweden, a few miles from a naval base. Residents of the islands of Sturko and Tjurko reported the drones and police upon arriving at the scene spotted one of them, the report said. b' ' John Healey told The Telegraph that the reckless and dangerous manoeuvres would be met with a response from Nato countries, including new border defences. The UK has launched a drone-building programme with Ukraine, codenamed Project Octopus, which will see interceptor drones built in British factories within weeks and deployed to deter Russian aggression. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement European ministers met on Friday to discuss the drone wall concept, which would involve stationing ground-launched drones on the border to tackle Russian drones or missiles. John Healey called the Russian incursions reckless and dangerous - David Rose Mr Healey said the UK would mass-produce the drones using modern manufacturing techniques that we have in this country that they havent got and supply them back in the thousands to help Ukraine defend themselves. Britain and Ukraine will jointly own the intellectual property of the drones, in a first-of-its-kind deal that will also allow them to be deployed in Nato countries. They have already proven effective against Iranian-made Shahed suicide drones, Mr Healey said, but have a production cost of less than a tenth of their rivals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He added the system could eventually also be used as a missile defence system in the UK to protect military sites and critical national infrastructure. Were ready with allies through Nato to demonstrate to Putin that his aggression and his incursions, reckless or intentional, will be challenged, he said. It came as fresh sightings of drones were reported over Denmarks largest military base. The Danish defence ministry said the drones were observed at several Danish defence facilities overnight on Friday, following a hybrid attack on the country earlier in the week with Russia suspected to be responsible. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement b' ' Troels Lund Poulsen, Denmarks deputy prime minister, said at the time the drones were probably launched by a professional actor but refrained from accusing Russia of being involved. Mette Frederiksen, Denmarks prime minister, said on Thursday: There is one main country that poses a threat to Europes security, and it is Russia. At the same time, Oslo Airport closed its airspace for three hours after sightings of two drones. Norwegian police are also investigating a possible drone observation at rland main air station on Norways west coast. It is Norways largest military air base and the main station for its military aircraft. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Moscow said it firmly rejects the suggestion of any Russian involvement. Last week, Estonia reported that its airspace had been violated by three Russian MiG-31 fighter jets, and remained over the country without permission for 12 minutes. An armed MiG-31 jet seen in Estonian airspace - Forsvarsmakten/AFP In response, the country is extending a fence along its border with Russia and building anti-tank ditches as a precaution against a land war with Putin. Both Donald Trump and Mark Rutte, the Nato secretary-general, have said that members of the alliance should target Russian forces that violate their airspace where necessary. Allies have called for Moscow not to escalate the war in Ukraine into a wider conflict with Nato in Europe. Volodymyr Zelensky, the Ukrainian president, told the UN this week that Europe must stop Putin before the war becomes wider and deeper. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In his interview with The Telegraph, Mr Healey also announced a new forces first house-building programme on surplus land owned by the Ministry of Defence, which he said would help solve the problem of substandard accommodation for serving personnel. He said 100,000 homes could be built on the land in the coming years, with thousands in this parliament that will contribute to the Governments target of building 1.5 million houses by 2029. Forces families and veterans will be given first dibs to buy or rent the properties on MoD land. I want to change the recognition that there is amongst the forces and their families, that they recognise were a government on their side, he said. A pilot scheme for the programme has begun at MoD Feltham in Middlesex, where a housing site is under development that officials believe could create hundreds of homes and jobs. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Most children say puppies and kittens are their favorite animals, but not Haley O'Briant her infatuation with opossums led her and her mother to become wildlife rehabilitators. O'Briant and her mother, Tandy Chevalier, run the Cape Fear Critters Animal Rescue and Sanctuary near Wilmington, North Carolina. O'Briant was obsessed with the marsupials as a child and worried about them getting hit by cars, so they began rehabbing small animals. They've constructed enclosures to mimic natural habitats. Aside from feeding the young opossums, the mother-daughter pair tries to give them as much space as possible. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We don't want them with people any more than absolutely necessary," said Chevalier. The Federal Highway Administration reports that over one million wildlife-vehicle collisions occur annually in the United States, which impact human safety and animal survival. These incidents are especially hazardous for endangered and threatened species. In particular, habitat fragmentation breaks homes up and leaves limited space for animals to hunt, forage, and mate. Deer, raccoons, and other species risk their lives crossing busy streets. Efforts to mitigate roadkill have been successful in some places. For example, the Banff Wildlife Crossings Project in Canada reduced wildlife collisions by 80% on the Trans-Canada Highway, with deer and elk collisions decreasing by 96%. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chevalier and O'Briant's work is needed in Brunswick County, where rapid development has led to an increase in drivers. The nonprofit has seen an uptick in incidents involving dogs, cats, and squirrels. Their efforts contribute to the ecological balance in the Cape Fear region, where they educate the community about wildlife and responsible pet ownership. The importance of wildlife rehabilitation centers cannot be overstated. "What's so wonderful about these animals about all animals is that they get out of that unbelievably horrific setting, and we place them in grass outside in the sunshine with the breeze blowing, and they just stop," said Lynn Cuny, founder of Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation in Texas. Her mission took in 330 animals from a fur and urine farming facility. Arizona's Liberty Wildlife also rescues animals from extreme heat and wildfires. Its education coordinator, Laura Hackett, always aims to release a rehabilitated animal back into the wild. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "If it can't survive in the wild anymore," she said, "we can transfer them to an education permit, and they can become an education ambassador, or we have foster animals." Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet. Anger over chronic water and electricity shortages has exploded into deadly unrest in Madagascar, prompting a night-time curfew in the capital. At least five people were killed in mass protests in Antananarivo on Thursday, hospital sources said. Despite the curfew, demonstrators built barricades of burning tyres and rubbish and ransacked shops. Cable car stations were also attacked as unrest spread through the city. RFI correspondent Guilhem Fabry reported that loud blasts were heard near the city centre until about 2am on Friday and that a strong smell of smoke hung in the air. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Authorities have imposed a curfew in Antananarivo from 7pm to 5am, saying it will stay in place until public order is restored. Schools across the capital and nearby districts were closed on Friday, and the suspension was extended to the city of Antsirabe, where clashes also broke out. Energy crisis looms large as Macron makes rare visit to Madagascar Tear gas, rubber bullets Thursdays protests in Antananarivo, which began as peaceful marches, were met with tear gas, rubber bullets and large numbers of police. What started as demonstrations against the shortages quickly escalated into one of the biggest challenges faced by President Andry Rajoelina in years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hundreds of people tried to reach central Ambohijatovo Square despite a government ban on gatherings, but were blocked by heavy security. Protesters split into smaller groups to get around the cordons, carrying banners denouncing the outages and accusing the government of failing to guarantee basic rights. Police fired tear gas and rubber bullets as masked officers charged the crowds. Online mobilisation Two lawmakers have reportedly had their homes vandalised, including senator Lalatiana Rakotondrazafy a former minister and vocal supporter of Rajoelina. Addresses of pro-government figures had been widely shared on social media, amid massive online mobilisation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While most of the posts called for peaceful protests, some included addresses of officials to "target" or even DIY guides for making explosives. Security forces claim that bad actors are taking advantage of the protests to destroy property, while legislators have tried to frame the movement as a plot. Ahead of Thursday's protests, 13 out of 18 senators denounced what they called an "attempted coup d'etat" by the opposition. Rajoelina has yet to address the situation. Having spoken at the UN General Assembly in New York earlier in the week, it remains unclear whether the president has returned to Madagascar. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He first came to power through a coup in 2009, before going on to win presidential elections in 2018 and 2023. Andry Rajoelina re-elected Madagascar president: poll body Persistent shortages Only around a third of Madagascars 30 million people have access to electricity, according to the International Monetary Fund. Power cuts often last more than eight hours a day. Poor governance of the state-owned utility, Jirama, is at the heart of the problem and for months there have been protests outside their headquarters in Antananarivo. Madagascar is one of the poorest countries in the world, with 75 percent of people living below the poverty line. Yet Jirama uses up 10 percent of the state's revenue. Critics point to mismanagement and corruption as key factors behind the company's failings. This week, Delaware County leaders moved to protect local watershed programs currently funded through the state permit that allows New York City to own land in the county which contains the citys water supply. The Delaware County Board of Supervisors passed a resolution Wednesday, Sept. 24 advocating for the protection of this funding, which may not be included in the draft of the new state permit. The resolution stated that in the draft permit, the New York City Department of Environmental Protection limited its funding obligations, and further stated that DEP has informally expressed its intent to decrease funding obligations in the West of Hudson Watershed to focus funding on new emergent threats to water quality. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The concern here in Delaware County is that the city may be pulling back from some of those partnership programs, said Nicholas Carbone, the countys director of watershed affairs. They want to make sure that those programs are contained in that water supply permit and that they need to be funded in the future. The water supply permit, which went into effect in 2010 and expires this year, allows New York City to purchase land outside its own municipality. New York City does not filter its own water, said Jason Merwin, the executive director of the Catskill Watershed Corporation. The city has to prove it can keep its water clean at the source, Merwin said, which is based in the Catskills and much of Delaware County. It additionally has to show cooperation from local stakeholders. The corporation was established to make funding decisions on behalf of local communities. It has issued more than $20 million to a variety of applicants throughout the watershed, Merwin said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Locals agreed to the regulations if the city would fund several different watershed protection and partnership programs to offset the associated costs, including septic system rehabilitations and replacements, stormwater retrofits and new sewage treatment infrastructure facilities, among several others. It would be impossible for the these towns and villages to maintain a wastewater treatment plant without being subsidized by the city, Carbone said. Youre talking about small communities that couldnt possibly fund or maintain wastewater treatment systems to the level that they need to be to keep them in compliance for the next 20 years. The city does not manage the programs and has no veto power. It just provides funding, Merwin said. The new permit is coming out soon, Carbone said, called the water withdrawal permit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Carbone said stakeholders have been in the negotiation process with the city for almost four years regarding the terms of the permit application. The negotiations were focused on land acquisition, he added. DEP made a proclamation that it would no longer purchase land in the center of Delaware County. Carbone said this made people living in the county very happy. Another program that was negotiated over the past few years, he said, was the streamside acquisition program. The county was opposed to city ownership of the the stream corridors, as it felt there were many layers of regulation by the DEP and DEC. Developments and septic systems were barred within 100 feet of a stream course. He said a few months ago, a hold was put on the negotiations and the DEP made the application for the water withdrawal permit without the county knowing what was included in the draft permit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Merwin said the county is requesting that the state DEPartment of Environmental Conservation press pause on reviewing the water withdrawal permit application to allow stakeholders to return to the negotiation table with the DEP. A DEP spokesperson said the DEP also is waiting on the DECs draft permit for review, as the DEC is the regulatory agency, adding that critical watershed programs in place are already enshrined in the separate filtration avoidance determination (FAD) which remains in effect. Separately, last year DEP announced an end to core land acquisition purchases covering the vast majority of the Catskills region a position that remains unchanged, the spokesperson said. DEP also stands by any agreements it has already committed to in the year-plus of negotiations that have taken place, and has put that in writing to the stakeholders. DEP stands ready to continue discussions with all parties related to the DEC permit and other issues and stepped away only when talks stalled due to irreconcilable differences between Delaware County and some environmental advocates, the statement continued. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A spokesperson for the DEC was unable to immediately comment Friday, Sept. 26. Seventeen towns and seven villages in Delaware County signed the 1997 New York City Watershed Memorandum of Agreement. Carbone said it was a two part agreement based on the protection of water, the citys water supply, but also promised community sustainability. The partnership programs were part of the MOA. About 70% percent of the land that was purchased by the city through the permit is in Delaware County, Carbone said. The county has a half million acres in the New York City watershed, the West of Hudson Watershed. The total West of the Hudson watershed is about 1.2 million acres, Carbone said, almost half of which is in the county. DEP and its staff have been excellent partners, the resolution stated. Delaware County is extremely proud of the accomplishments of that partnership and anticipates another 28 years of partnership in the development and implementation of Watershed Water Quality Protection Program. Denmark will impose a blanket ban on civilian drone flights ahead of a visit by European leaders to Copenhagen next week. Thomas Danielsen, Denmarks transport minister, announced on Sunday that the countrys airspace would be closed between Monday and Friday. EU government heads are due to arrive on Wednesday to discuss alleged Russian incursions into European airspace. Drones were spotted at several military facilities overnight on Saturday in Denmark, following a week in which drone sorties caused the temporary closures of several Danish airports. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Drone attacks and other airspace violations have also been reported by Estonia, Poland and Norway. Denmark has called the drones part of a hybrid attack but stopped short of saying definitively who it believes is responsible. Drones were reported over Aalborg overnight on Saturday - Morten Skov/via Reuters Mette Frederiksen, the prime minister, has suggested it could be Russia, the primary country that poses a threat to European security. The Kremlin denies the claim. Mr Danielsen said the measure to close its airspace would remove the risk of enemy drones being confused with legal drones and vice versa. Violating the ban could result in fines or even prison sentences of up to two years, the ministry warned. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Denmark has been one of the most strident supporters of Ukraine since the beginning of the Russian invasion and has also taken major efforts to strengthen its own military capabilities. On Friday evening, at least one drone was spotted over Air Base Karup, Denmarks largest facility. A mobile radar is installed on the coast of Oresund after drone incursions last week - Steven Knap/EPA/Shutterstock It was one of several unexplained drone activities across Denmark since Sept 22. The countrys main international air hub, Copenhagen airport, was closed for several hours last Monday after drones were sighted nearby. Volodymyr Zelenksy, Ukraines president, said the sightings in Europe were part of the Kremlins strategy to check Europes protection of its skies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement b' ' In Norway, the defence ministry said that drones had probably been seen flying for around an hour near rland air base, though confirmation is pending. In northern Germany, swarms of drones were reported over Schleswig-Holstein late on Friday, prompting a police investigation. British-made aircraft will be deployed to create a drone wall to protect Nato from Russian aggression, John Healey, the Defence Secretary, said on Saturday. Drone incursions have led Berlin to plan new legislation that will allow the German army to shoot the unmanned aircraft out of the sky. Alexander Dobrindt, Germanys interior minister, said the threat posed by drones was high and that the army would be allowed to shoot them down if they posed a critical threat to infrastructure. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Denmark has said it was the victim of a hybrid attack after repeated unexplained drone activity near five of its airports this week. The most recent was Aalborg airport, in north Denmark, which closed on Friday following the drone sightings, while Esbjerg, Sonderborg and Skrydstrup regions all remained open despite similar incidents. They came just two days after Danish prime minister Mette Frederiksen refused to rule out Russian involvement when drone sightings forced Copenhagen airport into shutdown for four hours, in what she described as a serious attack on critical Danish infrastructure. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After Wednesdays incident, defence minister Troels Lund Poulsen warned that it certainly does not look like a coincidence, it looks systematic, this is what I would define as a hybrid attack. Similar drone sightings occurred in Sweden this week, including two mysterious drones spotted over the Karlskrona archipelago in the countrys southeast, and in Norway, where Oslo airport was forced to close for three hours on the same night as the incident in the Danish capital. As Danish politicians hint at a real possibility of Russian involvement, The Independent takes a look at why Moscow would seek to target a country so far away. A light moves in the sky over Aalborg, amid reports of drone sightings that led to the city's airport to close (Morten Skov via REUTERS) Russia and Denmarks fraught recent history Whats been overlooked in a lot of the foreign media coverage is the history, in terms of Russia making angry noises towards Copenhagen, Keir Giles, an expert on the Russian military and author of Russias War on Everybody: And What It Means For You, explained to The Independent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This includes the old litany of nuclear threats, precisely because Denmark is interested in defending itself, because it is looking at purchases of long-range precision strike munitions that Russia would not like it to have, he added. The Danish police are seen at Copenhagen airport, in Kastrup near Copenhagen on Monday (Ritzau Scanpix) Last Wednesday, Denmark said it would acquire long-range precision weapons for the first time as it cited the need to deter Russia. With these weapons, the defence forces will be able to hit targets at long range and, for example, neutralise enemy missile threats, Ms Frederiksen said, explaining the weapons could include either missiles or drones. It provoked a sharp reaction from Moscow, with Vladimir Barbin, the Russian ambassador to Denmark, describing the Danish justification about needing to strike long-distance targets as pure madness. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Barbin then issued a thinly veiled nuclear threat to Copenhagen. No one, anywhere, ever in the world has considered threatening a nuclear power publicly. These statements will undoubtedly be taken into account, he wrote on Telegram. From now on, we must assume that Denmark is not only considering the possibility of a direct military confrontation with Russia, but is also preparing for such a scenario. Ms Frederiksen refused to rule out the possibility of Russian involvement (Ritzau Scanpix) Katja Bego, a senior research fellow in Chatham Houses International Security programme, said that of the countries which dont border Europe, Denmark has been one of the frontrunner countries in terms of challenging Russian aggression. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Theres been this longer-term pattern that Denmark is one of those places thats really pushing the rest of the [Nato} alliance to increase [military] support, she added. Sowing distrust in the Danish population Russia could be cynically trying to sow distrust in the Danish population, which has been largely in favour of significant support for Ukraine, Ms Bego explained. [They are] kind of selling distrust or division among the population. Other countries that were targeted here were all very staunch supporters of Ukraine, and countries near Ukraine, she said. These are Ukraines strongest supporters, which I think is part of a longer-term pattern. Weve seen quite a lot of this activity in the Baltic Sea. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So I think the choice of countries here is certainly not random. The benefit of doing this, she explains, is that it creates fear and may make populations less willing to support Ukraine moving forward. There is a significant financial cost to use incredibly expensive missiles to shoot down really cheap drones, as she says was done in the case of Russias incursion into Poland with around 20 drones earlier this month. Danish police and Danish Security and Intelligence Service (PET) are present at DSB on Kystvejen by Copenhagen airport, Tuesday (Ritzau Scanpix) Is Moscow testing the waters for an expanded war? Its been widely suggested that Moscow is looking to probe Nato defences to ascertain how they would really respond to a more meaningful incursion of Russias military. Nobody is in any doubt that Russias ambition goes far beyond Ukraine, and to carry out that ambition, Russia needs to know whether it will be opposed, Mr Giles said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Although it is unconfirmed whether Russia was involved with the recent drone incidents, he said, Moscow still learns a great deal from it, even if it was just local idiots. One of the primary benefits is understanding more about the capacity of Nato and individual countries to counter Russian operations and the willingness to actually respond in a meaningful fashion, he said. But the capacity for victim states to deal with the threat has been proven to be very limited, he added. Russian President Vladimir Putin listens to Ella Pamfilova, head of the Russian Central Election Commission, during their meeting a the Kremlin in Moscow, Russia, on Friday (AP) The drone incidents would be a good means of normalising the state of conflict, he added, allowing Russia to get to a position where these kinds of Russian actions are part of the background noise, as opposed to something which ought to be unacceptable. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ms Bego agrees, arguing that it may be Russia testing the waters, or trying to see how Alliance members of Nato might respond. She added: In this case, these are kind of lower key drones, but [the response] would not necessarily look that dissimilar if you were looking at a bigger escalation. COPENHAGEN, Denmark (AP) Denmark's defense ministry said Sunday that it had again observed drones at several of its armed forces locations overnight, a day after the NATO alliance announced that it would enhance its vigilance in the Baltic Sea region. The ministry said in a statement that it had several capacities deployed after drone sightings from Saturday into Sunday night. It didn't offer any further details about the specifics of the deployment, the number of drones or locations. This is the latest unexplained drone activity after several sightings, including over five Danish airports last week, raising concerns about security in northern Europe amid suspected growing Russian aggression. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Following a NATO meeting in Riga, Latvia, on Saturday, Col. Martin ODonnell, the Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe spokesperson, announced that we will conduct even more enhanced vigilance with new multi-domain assets in the Baltic Sea region, which includes Denmark, under Baltic Sentry. He also said that NATO leaders were in constant contact with Danish officials following the drone sightings. As Denmark gears up for the upcoming European Union Summit in Copenhagen, the Danish transportation ministry said Sunday that all civilian drone flying in Danish airspace will be prohibited from Monday to Friday to remove the risk that enemy drones can be confused with legal drones and vice versa. We cannot accept that foreign drones create uncertainty and disturbances in society, as we have experienced recently. At the same time, Denmark will host EU leaders in the coming week, where we will have extra focus on security, Danish transportation minister Thomas Danielsen said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A violation of the prohibition can result in a fine or imprisonment for up to two years," according to the statement. The prohibition does not apply to military drone flights, drones used by state aviation, including police and emergency drone operations, as well as municipal and regional emergency and health-related drone operations. On Sunday afternoon, the Danish defense ministry announced that the German air defense frigate, FSG Hamburg, had arrived in Copenhagen. Here, the ship will contribute to strengthening Denmarks surveillance of the airspace in connection with the upcoming EU summit in Copenhagen, the ministry said in a statement. The German frigate is part of NATOs Baltic Sentry activity, which is intended to strengthen NATOs presence along the alliances eastern flank. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Separately, Germany said that following a request from Denmark, its armed forces would provide military support for the upcoming EU summit through Counter-small Unmanned Aircraft Systems capabilities, also known as C-sUAS, which are detection systems that use radar, optical and acoustics technologies. Sweden had already announced earlier that it would "lend Denmark a military anti-drone capability without giving further details. Tensions have been running high in Denmark in recent days following reports of drone activity, and hundreds of possible sightings reported by concerned citizens that couldnt officially be confirmed. Nonetheless, the public has been asked to report all suspicious activity to the police. Danish Minister of Justice Peter Hummelgaard said on Sept. 25 that the goal of the flyovers is to sow fear and division, adding that the country will seek additional ways to neutralize drones, including proposing legislation to allow infrastructure owners to shoot them down. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While it's not clear who is behind the drone activity, Denmarks prime minister and NATOs secretary-general said last week that Russian involvement couldnt be ruled out. The Russian Embassy in Denmark last week rejected claims of Moscow's involvement in the incidents. Speaking to Russian media in comments released Sunday, Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko said that any attempt by NATO to shoot down Russian or Belarusian aircraft would be met with an immediate response." Let them try, let them shoot. Or theyll shoot down something Russian over Kaliningrad. Then, of course, well have to fight, as they say in Russia, with all weve got. Is that necessary? No, he said, asking whether NATO would shoot down his helicopter when flying close to the Polish border. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The release of Lukashenkos comments came after Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov told the U.N. General Assembly on Saturday that his nation doesnt intend to attack Europe, but will mount a decisive response to any aggression. I think people will very much regret if they commit the most flagrant violation of our territorial integrity and territorial sovereignty, Lavrov said, including attempts to shoot down any object in general over our territory, in our airspace. UNITED NATIONS President Donald Trumps first U.N. General Assembly since returning to the White House forced the organization to defend its importance and mere existence. And during this past weeks high-level debate, it wasnt clear the worlds largest diplomatic body made that argument. The week of speeches, sideline meetings and traffic-jammed New York streets was consumed with uncertainty and a certain nihilism about the future of the organization. The U.S. had already pledged to cut millions from its contribution to the U.N. budget ahead of the gathering, and the Trump administration has repeatedly questioned whether the organization serves any purpose. The U.N. is regularly criticized as a talking shop, but many diplomats argue it is also a key space where countries can develop solutions to international crises. That tone was set on Tuesday the first day of debate when the U.S. president excoriated the organization as ineffective. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I ended seven wars, dealt with the leaders of each and every one of these countries and never even received a phone call from the United Nations offering to help in finalizing the deal, Trump said in his remarks. He said he liked the idea of the U.N. but that it wasnt even coming close to living up to its potential. Almost confirming his point, the U.N. organization itself wasnt a major player in developments of the week. Its efforts to punish Russia for breaching NATO airspace, hold Israel accountable for its conduct of the war in Gaza and address Irans nuclear program fell flat. However, the world leaders who descended on New York did get some wins from the Trump administration and on other issues. The high-level week and speeches at the General Assembly continue through Monday. But for the most part, many of the leaders and major delegations had left New York by the time the weekend rolled around. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Heres what caught our eye, and what was notably absent, at this years gathering: Combative toward Trump, but not too combative The United Nations top leaders did not approach Trump with the same kind of obeisance as their counterparts at other global forums in recent months. There were no efforts to obsequiously flatter the U.S. president no gifts, no calling Trump Daddy, no long laudatory remarks from top U.N. officials about the Trump administrations contributions to global peace. In the lead-up to the General Assembly debate, a number of major U.S. allies bucked the Trump administration by formally recognizing a Palestinian state, including France, Canada and the U.K. The Trump administration had threatened earlier in the year that such a move which the U.S. and Israel say is a reward to Hamas militants for their 2023 attack would be punished. Many heads of state also criticized Trump administration policies in their speeches. Various Latin American leaders protested the decision to strike alleged drug trafficking vessels off the waters of Venezuela. Others slammed Trump for his targeting of Brazil over the prosecution of ex-President Jair Bolsonaro, for proposing that Palestinians evacuate Gaza and for cutting billions of dollars of U.S. foreign assistance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Even so, the moves seemed calibrated to needle rather than enrage Trump. Officials from some of the countries recognizing a Palestinian state said that Trump officials had privately given indications it wouldnt make a big deal of the declarations. And in fact, Trump officials met the move with a shrug. U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, meanwhile, did note that it was the U.S. who brokered ceasefires and treaties between Thailand and Cambodia and Armenia and Azerbaijan. On Tuesday, he said in a meeting with Trump we are entirely at your disposal to work together toward a just peace. Trump also received plenty of praise in the General Assembly from a number of fellow world leaders, especially those looking to keep the White House in their corners and secure deals to their advantage. Notably in this camp were Argentine President Javier Milei, who is looking to secure a major economic bailout from the Treasury Department, and Pakistani Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, who is seeking to mend relations with Washington. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu celebrated Trumps efforts to combat antisemitism, hobble Irans nuclear program and support Israels military endeavors. Escalators and teleprompters took center stage Its usually fiery speeches or landmark deals that garner headlines at the U.N. gathering. This year a few equipment glitches created a swirl of conspiracy theories and debate over who to blame. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As Trump and the first lady boarded an escalator on Tuesday, it ground to a halt. Trumps teleprompter also wasnt working at the beginning of his speech, and so he directed much of his ire at the U.N. at these very specific logistical issues. These are the two things I got from the United Nations: a bad escalator and a bad teleprompter, Trump said. He also went on a rant about renovations to the U.N. building having been too expensive. Trump administration officials accused U.N. staff of potentially sabotaging the escalator and the teleprompter as a way to humiliate the U.S. president. Trump said hed mobilized the Secret Service to investigate, while calling on the U.N. to do the same. U.N. officials immediately went on the defensive, and released a statement saying that a White House videographer may have inadvertently triggered the safety function in the escalator. It has not acknowledged the other incidents. The videos of the Trumps stuck on the escalator also took on a life of their own, circulating on social media and inspiring several late night show monologues. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The back-and-forth over the incidents highlighted the extent to which the U.N. is having to fight to preserve its reputation as a key world body both in Washington and globally. A rallying around Ukraine, sort of In the run-up to the General Assembly, Russia flew drones into the airspace of a number of Eastern European countries, raising worries of the Ukraine war spilling quickly into neighboring nations. Trumps initial reactions to the incursions were tepid, so European representatives expressed relief when Trump said Tuesday that NATO should shoot down any such Russia drones. And then they were elated when Trump quickly followed that with a social media post proclaiming Ukraine could indeed win the war and take back all of its territory. It appeared to be a major realignment of the Trump administration toward supporting Ukraine in the war, following months of Trump focusing on concessions Ukraine would have to make for peace. It also brought cautious hope to Ukraines allies that the U.S. would resume supporting Ukraine with equipment. But fears quickly began percolating that Trumps comments were more an indication he was leaving Europe to bear the burden of backing Kyiv. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump was the one who promised to stop the killing, top EU diplomat Kaja Kallas said in an interview with POLITICO Thursday. So it cant be on us. And Russias aggression shows no sign of letting up. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov told the General Assembly on Saturday that Russia is open to negotiations but said nothing about easing the conditions Russia has put on such talks, many of which are red lines for Kyiv and Europe. And worrying European allies, Lavrov said at a G20 meeting on the sidelines of the General Assembly that the EU and NATO had already declared a real war on Moscow by supporting Ukraine. Those who werent there caught as much attention as those who were Ahead of the week of meetings in New York, the Trump administration took the rare step of denying visas for aides from a litany of countries over policy disagreements. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That included all representatives from the Palestinian Authority, including President Mahmoud Abbas. The U.S. administration said this was because of ties to terrorist groups, though the move was largely seen as an effort to undercut the push for wider recognition of a Palestinian state. Abbas was forced to address the global confab via a streamed video link. Its unlikely an in-person presence would have made a difference in terms of resolutions around the Gaza war, but the U.N. is also one of the few venues open to the Palestinian Authority to make its case to the world. The U.S. also blocked some officials from Iran and Brazil from attending the Iranians for alleged terror ties and Brazils health minister over a partnership with Cuba to hire Cuban doctors to work in the countrys remote poor regions but their heads of state and foreign ministers experienced no issues attending the global confab. In some countries, the visa revocations were even celebrated. The New York Times reported that some Gambians reacted with joy that their officials were blocked from coming to the United States for the global confab amid an immigration-related dispute with Washington, arguing officials treated those trips as vacations paid for out of the public treasury. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is unclear whether the U.S. will continue blocking visas for major forums in the future. The State Department revoked Colombian President Gustavo Petros visa to enter the United States over comments he made at a pro-Palestinian protest in New York, signaling that the U.S. may apply visa scrutiny widely for future gatherings. The U.N. made progress on at least a few issues Plenty of issues didnt move forward at the U.N. The U.S. blocked formal recognition of a Palestinian state by the organization and talks broke down over international sanctions against Irans nuclear program. But there was some progress on Haiti, in part because the U.S. invested considerable resources on the issue. A U.S.-backed proposal to strengthen a multinational support mission to bolster the Caribbean countrys embattled police gained some traction in discussions over the week and will be considered by the Security Council on Tuesday. The measures would expand funding and contributions to the mission. The mission, currently led by a detachment of Kenyan police officers, has struggled to help Haitis beleaguered central government defeat well-armed criminal groups in the country. The U.S. brought the top U.S. diplomat in Port-au-Prince Henry Wooster to New York for meetings and secured commitments from other countries in the Western Hemisphere for funding support. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Yet its unclear if Russia and China will back the proposal to strengthen the multinational mission when the Security Council votes on it next week. Meanwhile, Trump put out a proposal for a post-war Gaza in a meeting with Arab and Middle Eastern leaders that Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan described as fruitful. The proposal did not, however, provide a way forward in currently stalled negotiations. There could be progress on that when Netanyahu meets with Trump in Washington on Monday though the two leaders seems to have different impressions of how close they are. No fixes to U.N. dysfunction on the horizon Complaints about the fecklessness of the United Nations in the face of global crises long predated Trumps speech indicting the organization. But unlike at other General Assembly high-level weeks, this year was scant on any discussion of reform. Last year, Guterres held a forum on the sidelines of the General Assembly which produced a non-binding pact to reform global governance. Yet few references were made to the Pact of the Future this year, and other proposals Guterres has put forward to advance U.N. reform were far from the main topic of discussion around the General Assembly. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Guterres acknowledged the challenges ahead for the organization in his opening remarks Tuesday. We are being hit by rising geopolitical tensions and divisions, chronic uncertainty, and mounting financial strain, he said. But those who depend on the United Nations must not be made to bear the cost. Especially now when for every dollar invested to support our core work to build peace, the world spends 750 dollars on weapons of war. This is not only unsustainable it is indefensible. Theres also some resignation that the U.S., as the host country and the largest financial backer of the United Nations, will throw its weight around regardless of what structures are put in place, exacerbating the root defects of the institutions. It would be necessary to fix some of its member states, and in particular the most permanent of the five permanent, which is the one that exercises a policy of manipulating the United Nations, Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodriguez Parrilla said in an interview. How can we blame the United Nations for what a superpower that is a member state does? Giselle Ruhiyyih Ewing and Felicia Schwartz contributed to this report. The Polderbaan runway at Amsterdams Schiphol Airport was shut for about 45 minutes on Sept. 27 after pilots and plane spotters reported a drone in the area. The Royal Netherlands Marechaussee, a military police force, later said an investigation showed no drone was detected on radar and that the object was likely a balloon. Air traffic control received several reports around 12:10 p.m. local time of a drone flying at about 150 meters. A police helicopter joined the search, but nothing was found. Flights were diverted to another runway before Polderbaan reopened at 1:00 p.m, according to local media. Authorities said the temporary closure was a precautionary step, stressing that safety takes priority. The incident comes as European airports heighten vigilance after recent drone sightings in Denmark, which forced temporary closures of several airports. Similar closures were also reported in Oslo, Norway, while drones were also spotted in Lithuania and Finland. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Danish officials called those incidents an "attack" on critical infrastructure. The Netherland's Marechaussee noted that while "people are extra vigilant," this can also lead to false alarms. President Volodymyr Zelensky, commenting on recent Russian drone attacks spilling into Europe, warned that Moscow is deliberately trying to shake public confidence. "Russia is checking Europes ability to defend itself and trying to influence societies so that people start to think: 'Why are we giving everything to Ukrainians if we cannot defend ourselves?'" he said. Zelensky noted that 92 drones targeted Poland recently, with Ukrainian air defenses intercepting most before they crossed the border. He added that some European states may hesitate to provide Ukraine with air defense systems, but stressed that knowledge and mobility, rather than just high-end systems, are crucial. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "You cannot shoot down drones with Patriot systems. There simply are not enough missiles in the world. Thats why knowledge is needed the knowledge of our mobile fire groups, our drone operators, our Air Force leadership, all our air defense commanders," Zelensky said. In response to the Danish drone incursions, NATO said on Sept. 27 that it was expanding its Baltic Sea operations with additional military assets, according to a statement emailed to Reuters. NATO will "conduct even more enhanced vigilance with new multi-domain assets in the Baltic Sea region," the statement read. The alliance plans to upgrade its Baltic Sentry mission to include new "intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance platforms and at least one air-defense frigate." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read also: As Russia tests NATO, calls to close Ukraines skies have returned heres what that means Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. UNITED NATIONS (AP) Regardless of political perspective, no one could argue that the presidency of Donald Trump and his second term so far in particular has been anything less than consequential, not only for the United States but for the world. That hasnt gone unremarked-upon at the U.N. General Assemblys meeting of world leaders, to whom Trump spoke Tuesday. In marquee speeches and other settings, many of them have mentioned Trump and his policies, be it obliquely or directly. Heres a sampling of quotes by leaders and luminaries from around the world this past week at the United Nations talking about Trump and his administration positive, negative and in between. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement ___ FRANCE Guess what? Im waiting in the street because everything is frozen for you! ... I would love this weekend to have a short discussion with Qatar and you on the situation in Gaza. French President Emmanuel Macron in a phone call to Trump after encountering a road closure because of the U.S. presidents motorcade ___ CHINA A major cause of the current global economic doldrums is the rise in unilateral and protective measures, such as tariff hikes and erection of walls and barriers. We should collaborate more closely to identify and expand convergence of interests, promote universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization, and help each other succeed by moving forward in the same direction. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Chinese Premier Li Qiang in his General Assembly speech ___ ARGENTINA President Trump of the United States also understands that the time has come to reverse a dynamic that is leading the United States towards a disaster, and we know that a disaster in the United States is a global disaster. His unflinching and successful policy in terms of halting illegal immigration makes that conviction more than clear. ... What Donald Trump is also doing is restructuring the terms of international trade in unprecedented fashion. ... Furthermore, hes instituting a cleanup of the institutional capture of the American state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Argentine President Javier Milei in his General Assembly speech ___ BOLIVIA We have a third cause of the current wars, which is more immediate. That is the obsessive zeal of the new Trump administration to give the United States back its position as a hegemonic power, at the cost of the liberal system, free trade, globalization, and to cause pain and death. For what? To take ownership over natural resources, to take control over commodities for the benefit of an imperial system, and to subordinate the majority of countries for their insatiable thirst for privilege and wealth, and to try to maintain a unipolar order at any cost. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Bolivian President Luis Arce in his General Assembly speech ___ UKRAINE Yesterday, we had a good meeting with President Trump, and I also spoke with many other strong leaders, and together, we can change a lot. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in his General Assembly speech. ___ RUSSIA In the approaches of the current U.S. administration, we see a desire not only to contribute to ways to realistically resolve the Ukrainian crisis, but also a desire to develop pragmatic cooperation without adopting an ideological stance. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in his General Assembly speech. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement ___ INDIA "If climate action itself is questioned, what hope is there for climate justice? Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar ___ ARMENIA The role of United States President Donald Trump is decisive in this (Armenia-Azerbaijan) peace process, whose dedication, consistency and principledness made possible what seemed to be impossible. Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan in his General Assembly speech. Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev also thanked Trump for his role in the peace initiative and for opening a new chapter in the U.S.-Azerbaijan relationship. ___ CAMBODIA We are grateful that a ceasefire (with Thailand), brokered by U.S. President Trump, effectively halted armed clashes.... However, the ceasefire remains very fragile. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister Sokhonn Prak in his General Assembly speech. Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow also saluted President Trumps strong dedication to peace while calling the ceasefire fragile. ___ SLOVENIA States are withdrawing from the Paris climate agreement, from the Ottawa treaty and from U.N. agencies, or simply cutting their financing. Each such act chips away at the support for multilateralism, a system designed not for the powerful few, but for the benefit of us all. President Natasa Pirc Musar of Slovenia in her General Assembly speech. (The U.S. has withdrawn from the Paris accord and from multiple U.N. agencies. The U.S. never signed onto the Ottawa Convention against antipersonnel land mines; some other countries are withdrawing from it.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement ___ BELARUS The actions of the United States of America to reduce its support to the U.N., which has already caused plans to cut staff in our organization, are a very unpleasant wake-up call. But youll have to agree that if the U.N. is able to be an impartial forum and move with the times, it will be in demand by everyone. Foreign Minister Maxim Ryzhenkov of Belarus in his General Assembly speech ___ CONGO I applaud, in this regard (the Congo-Rwanda peace deal ) the leadership of President Donald Trump. President Felix Tshisekedi of Congo in his General Assembly speech. Rwandan Foreign Minister Olivier Nduhungirehe also credited strong leadership from Trump and Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement ___ HAITI I also must thank President Trumps administration for the efforts made to bring support and resources to our common fight against gangs, the enemies who threaten both Haiti and the whole region. Laurent Saint-Cyr, head of Haitis transitional presidential council, in his General Assembly speech ___ SAINT KITTS AND NEVIS We recognize the serious threats posed by drug trafficking and other transnational crimes. These scourges must be addressed through cooperation, dialogue respect for sovereignty and the full respect for the principles of international law....We encourage dialogue between our two friends the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela and the United States of America to ensure that our region remains a zone of peace. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Prime Minister Terrance Drew of Saint Kitts and Nevis ___ COLOMBIA Was it really necessary to bomb unarmed, poor young people in the Caribbean? The anti-drug policy is not meant to stop cocaine that is coming to the United States. The anti-drug policy is to dominate the peoples of the South as a whole.... And there should be criminal cases against those officials of the United States for doing this, including the the utmost official, President Trump, who allowed the shooting of missiles against these young people who were simply trying to escape poverty. Colombian President Gustavo Petro in his General Assembly speech Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement ___ SOUTH KOREA It would be fantastic if (Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un) met with each other in the near future. And (South Korean) President Lee Jae Myung made it clear to President Trump that he will not be sitting in the drivers seat. He asked President Trump to become a peacemaker, and he relegated himself to become a pacemaker. We dont mind. On the contrary, we want President Trump to exercise his leadership to pull North Korea to dialogue table. South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Hyun, in an interview with the Associated Press ___ IRELAND I call on those who have provided and who continue to provide Israel with the means necessary to prosecute its war (in Gaza) to reflect carefully on the implications of their actions and the consequences for the Palestinian people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Irish Prime Minister Micheal Martin in his General Assembly speech ___ ISRAEL Thankfully, President Trumps administration is forcefully fighting the scourge of antisemitism, and every government here should follow its lead. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in his General Assembly speech ___ PALESTINIANS We are ready to work with U.S. President Donald Trump and with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and France and the United Nations to implement (a proposal for settling the Israeli-Palestinian conflict). Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas in his video speech to the General Assembly ___ BRAZIL Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I think that indeed there was some chemistry there.... Im going to treat him with the respect that he deserves as the president of the U.S., and hes going to treat me with the respect that the president of the Federal Republic of Brazil deserves. Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva at a press conference at U.N. headquarters after he and Trump crossed paths in the General Assembly hall. GRAND BLANC, MICHIGAN - SEPTEMBER 28: A firefighter walks down the street where emergency services are responding to a shooting and fire at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on September 28, 2025 in Grand Blanc, Michigan. According to police reports there are multiple victims and the shooter is down. (Photo by Emily Elconin/Getty Images) Updated at 5:28 p.m. Authorities say 11 people were shot, at least three fatally, including the gunman, and a fire broke out Sunday morning at a Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc Township, about 50 miles north of Detroit. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Grand Blanc Township police said on social media that the suspected shooter is down and there was no ongoing threat to the public, with Chief William Renye later telling reporters that the incident began at 10:25 a.m. when a 40-year-old Burton man drove his vehicle through the front doors of the church. The suspect has since been identified as Thomas Jacob Sanford. He then exited his vehicle, firing several rounds at individuals within the church. Ten gunshot victims have been transported to local hospitals at this time. Including one who has been deceased, Renye said. Officers, including with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and Grand Blanc Township, arrived on the scene a short while later and engaged in gunfire with that particular individual, neutralizing that suspect, Renye said, adding that the fire is thought to have been deliberately set by the shooter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Renye later told reporters that seven other victims were in stable condition, while one person was in critical condition. Multiple law enforcement agencies have responded to Sundays incident in Grand Blanc, including the Michigan State Police, the Oakland County Sheriffs Office and the Genesee County Sheriffs Office. FBI Director Kash Patel said on social media that the bureau was monitoring reports of the horrific shooting and fire and was assisting in the investigation. Violence in a place of worship is a cowardly and criminal act, Patel said. Our prayers are with the victims and their families during this terrible tragedy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gov. Gretchen Whitmer also shared a statement on social media, saying her heart was breaking for the Grand Blanc community. Violence anywhere, especially in a place of worship, is unacceptable, Whitmer said. I am grateful for the first responders who took action quickly. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, based in Salt Lake City, issued a statement, saying they were deeply grateful for the outpouring of support from around the world. In moments of sorrow and uncertainty, we find strength and comfort through our faith in Jesus Christ. Places of worship are meant to be sanctuaries of peacemaking, prayer and connection. We pray for peace and healing for all involved, Doug Andersen, a church spokesperson said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The shooting occurred less than 24 hours after the death of the churchs president, Russell M. Nelson, who died Saturday at 101 years old. The Grand Blanc Township incident follows another church-related shooting in late June when a man wearing tactical gear and carrying multiple firearms entered the CrossPointe Community Church in Wayne, Michigan before being fatally shot by church security. The shooters mother in that incident was reportedly a church member, and he had attended services several times over the past year. Utah News Dispatch Editor-in-Chief McKenzie Romero assisted with this story. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This story has been updated with suspected gunmans name, which was released by authorities, as well as further details on the status of the victims. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Sep. 27A federal judge handed a victory this week to New Mexico and 19 other states suing to block the Trump administration's effort to make emergency funding conditional on compliance with immigration enforcement policy. The judge issued an order Wednesday that stops the Department of Homeland Security from enforcing conditions for federal disaster grants and management programs, court records show. U.S. District Judge William E. Smith, District of Rhode Island, ruled that conditions set by DHS are "overbroad and unrelated to the underlying programs." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Smith also called the conditions "coercive" for states that rely on DHS grants "for billions of dollars annually in disaster relief and public safety funds that cannot be replaced by state revenues." Attorney General Raul Torrez, a plaintiff in the suit, cheered the ruling, which he said ensures "emergency relief from natural disasters without conditions." The U.S. Department of Justice, which is defending the DHS and the Federal Emergency Management Agency, could appeal the decision, Torrez's office said. "It is unconscionable that the Trump Administration would threaten to withhold emergency relief funds as a way to leverage states to participate in their reckless policy of indiscriminate immigration enforcement," Torrez said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Smith's order granted the states' request for a permanent injunction blocking DHS and FEMA from imposing the conditions. "Denying such funding if states refuse to comply with vague immigration requirements leaves them with no meaningful choice, particularly where state budgets are already committed," Smith wrote. The lawsuit will have no impact on emergency grants New Mexico has already received, said Chelsea Pitvorec, spokeswoman for the New Mexico Department of Justice. "This ruling means that FEMA is prohibited from imposing these requirements on Department of Homeland Security grants the plaintiff states in this lawsuit may receive in the future," she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The lawsuit stemmed from an executive order signed by President Donald Trump in January that directed DHS to deny funding to "sanctuary jurisdictions" that, in the administration's view, fail to cooperate with federal immigration agents. On Feb. 19, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem followed up with a memo "restricting grant funding for sanctuary jurisdictions." Conditions set by DHS included prohibiting restrictions on sharing information with DHS about a person's citizenship or immigration status and requiring state and local governments to give federal agents access to inmates in jails and prisons. (WHTM) Four people are dead and six others are injured after flames broke out at a home in Lebanon on Sunday morning. Lebanon Mayor Sherry Capello said four people ages 1, 4, 17, and 73 all died from injuries in a blaze in the 800 block of Church Street in the city. Firefighters were dispatched around 8:43 a.m. and found the first and second floors of the home aflame with reports of entrapment. A second alarm brought crews from across Lebanon County to the scene. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Three people were rescued and taken to an area hospital. Two people were later recovered from the home, Capello said. Ten people were at the home at the time for a birthday celebration, Capello said. With deep regret, I must report that four victims have passed away, one remains in critical condition, and one is in stable condition, Capello said. The remaining four occupants escaped with minor injuries. Capello said the fire was ruled accidental, electrical in nature and was caused by an electrical outlet in the first floor living room. She commended the response both from the fire department and community. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The City of Lebanon is fortunate to have such a courageous and dedicated community of first responders, neighbors who come together without hesitation in moments of greatest need to protect lives and property, she said. We are also deeply grateful to the friends, family members, and neighbors who provided comfort and support to the victims families during this tragedy. On behalf of the City, I extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased, Capello added. Words cannot capture the depth of our sorrow for their loss. Individuals looking to donate can do so in person starting on Monday. According to BAG of HOPE on Facebook, they will be open from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Monday for donations for the family. They said bags should be marked with the names on them and family written on them. The donations can be dropped off at 720 Quentin Road, Suite 6, in Lebanon. Interested parties can contact them at 717-454-0669 ext 3 for pickups. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Download the abc27 News+ app on your Roku, Amazon Fire TV Stick, and Apple TV devices A State Police Fire Marshal is investigating. This is a developing story. Stay with abc27 News as more information becomes available Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC27. ORLANDO, Fla. (WFLA) An Orlando man was sentenced to six years in federal prison and three years of supervised release for lying to the FBI in connection with an international terrorism investigation. According to a release by the Department of Justice, Islam Doci, 47, was sentenced by a judge after he was accused of making false statements in an interview with the Federal Bureau of Investigation relating to the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS), to which he pleaded guilty on Oct. 15, 2024. According to Docis plea agreement and evidence presented during sentencing, Doci promoted ISIS propaganda online, communicated with members of the organization, and sent himself money overseas in support of them while also facilitating the provision of money by others to ISIS. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The release said that a pro-ISIS post that Doci shared online stated: If Islam is terrorism, then O God give me more of this terrorism until the day I die. If Islam is radicalism, then O God give me more of this radicalism until the day I die. Additionally, the release said that Doci celebrated the killing of Americans and provided financial support to ISIS for war. The FBI interviewed Doci on two separate occasions in relation to these activities, during which Doci lied about his involvement and support of the designated terrorist organization. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFLA. I am a Latter-day Saint, a woman and an Idahoan. If Christian nationalism has its way, my faith and my voice would be pushed out of the public square. Christian nationalism is not about faith. It is about power. It insists America must be defined by one rigid version of Christianity and that anyone outside of that mold is somehow less American or less Christian. That ideology would silence millions, including members of my own faith, while corroding our democracy from within. We see this ideology gaining traction here in Idaho. Lawmakers push bills privileging one religion under the guise of values. School voucher schemes siphon public dollars into private religious schools while starving rural districts. Candidates backed by groups like the Idaho Family Policy Center talk of taking back Idaho for God, as if people of other faiths or no faith dont belong. And local activists demand libraries purge shelves and public schools adopt Bible classes in the name of Christian values. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The rhetoric behind these moves is even more alarming. Idaho Family Policy Center president Blaine Conzatti has drawn a sharp line between historic Christianity and the faith of Latter-day Saints, signaling that in his view, people like me dont qualify as Christian at all. Meanwhile, Doug Wilson, the Moscow pastor whose influence reaches far beyond Idaho, has argued that voting should be led by households through men and that women should not hold public office as men do. These are not fringe opinions. They are the logical extension of Christian nationalism: disenfranchising women, diminishing religious minorities and narrowing who counts as a true American. Contrast that with the gospel of Jesus. In the Sermon on the Mount, He blesses the poor, the merciful and the peacemakers not the powerful or partisan. He commands us to love our neighbors, not draw lines around which neighbors count. He warns against hypocrisy and pride, even as Christian nationalism feeds on both. Most clearly, Jesus taught we cannot love God while hating our neighbor. As a Latter-day Saint, I know the costs of religious exclusion. My faith tradition was once driven out of communities, targeted by mobs and even killed for our beliefs. Here in Idaho, from 1884 to 1908, the infamous Test Oath barred Mormons from voting or holding office, effectively silencing an entire community. That history is not distant. It is a reminder of what happens when political power is fused with religious dogma. And we should remember that Idaho was among the first states to give women the vote in 1896. That was progress. Yet today we hear echoes of voices suggesting women dont belong in the voting booth or the halls of power. That is regression and it should alarm every Idahoan. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Idaho is not a theocracy, and it must not become one. We pride ourselves on strong families, earnest faith and boundless freedom. But when politics weaponize religion, all three come under threat. We fracture communities. We marginalize minorities. And we take Christs name in vain by turning Him into a political weapon. The brilliance of America has never been in declaring ourselves a Christian nation. It has been in building a free nation where everyone can worship (or not) according to conscience. That freedom allows faith to flourish; coercion crushes it. Abandoning that principle betrays both the Constitution and the gospel of Christ. If Idaho wants to defend faith, family and freedom, we must reject Christian nationalism. What our state needs is not politics in religious clothing, but people of all faiths and no faith living out Christs command: Love your neighbor as yourself. That is strength. That is freedom. That is the Idaho I want my children and grandchildren to inherit. Chenele Dixon, a Latter-day Saint and former Idaho legislator, serves on the board of the Unity Alliance of Southern Idaho and is the executive director of Idaho Solutions an organization committed to strengthening good governance, education and community well-being across Idaho. Tyra Spaulding, a 2023 Miss Universe Jamaica contender, was found dead in her apartment of a suspected suicide, on Tuesday. She was 26. Spauldings relatives discovered her dead in her bedroom, The Gleaner reported, citing the Jamaica Constabulary Forces Corporate Communications Unit. Police are investigating Spauldings death as a possible suicide, US Weekly reported. The Miss Universe Jamaica organization shared on Thursday an Instagram post honoring Spaulding with a series of photos. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Our hearts are heavy as we mourn the loss of the beautiful Tyra Spaulding. She was a radiant soul and an amazing human being, the organization posted. Her light, grace, beauty and kind spirit touched every life she encountered, leaving memories that will never fade. Alongside 29 fellow contestants, Spaulding rose to the top 10 finalist spot in the Miss Universe Jamaica competition in August 2023 in Kingston, Jamaica. Contestant Jordanne Levy ultimately won the competition, according to the organizations Instagram page. She had a smile that lit up every room, bringing warmth and joy to all who had the privilege of knowing her, the organization posted. We at the Miss Universe Jamaica organization keep Tyras family, friends, and loved ones in our heartfelt prayers as we celebrate the beautiful life she shared with us. On her YouTube channel, Spaulding posted several videos talking about her mental health struggles, People.com reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I resigned from my nine to five job, but it was a terrible decision because my mental health just took up plummeted, she said in a video posted on Aug. 30. And guys, I was at the point where I made a plan to kill myself, so anybody on air, considering (leaving your job) just dont dont do it. Spaulding in the video also disclosed that she had attempted suicide previously but was currently in therapy thanks to the help of her former boss. In another video posted on Sept. 5, she said, Im fighting for my life over here. I feel like I need to go out and do something because my mind is trying to kill me. And if I do nothing, I am going to die I am fighting for my life Im definitely in a battle right now. Suicidal thoughts and behaviors can be reduced. If you are in crisis, call the National 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by dialing 9-8-8 or visiting 988lifeline.org. Vashti Harris Stories by Vashti Harris Read the original article on NJ.com. Add NJ.com as a Preferred Source by clicking here. Jaime Harrison, former chairman of the Democratic National Committee, speaks to attendees at a South Dakota Democratic Party fundraiser on Sept. 27, 2025, in Rapid City. (Seth Tupper/South Dakota Searchlight) RAPID CITY After South Dakota Democrats heard appeals to organize, recruit and raise money, the keynote speaker at their Saturday night fundraiser urged them to do something else: hope. Jaime Harrison, former chairman of the Democratic National Committee, told a story from his earlier job as floor director for the U.S. House Democratic Caucus. He recalled how a woman who was cleaning his Capitol office picked up a picture frame, recognized his mother in the photo, and said she went to high school with his mom and remembered when she dropped out of high school to give birth. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Harrison said the encounter brought them both to tears. And she came over and she hugged me and she said, I would have never guessed that Patricia Harrisons son would be right here. You give me hope. Election 2026 News and commentary on statewide races and ballot questions. Read the latest> Harrison said the story is a reminder that success is possible no matter where you start. South Dakota Democrats are starting the 2026 campaign season with nobody in a statewide elected office. They had nine of the Legislatures 105 members until earlier this month, when one of their members defected to the Republican Party and left them with eight. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One of those eight, Rapid City Rep. Nicole Uhre-Balk, told the crowd Saturday night that I cannot begin to tell you how good it feels to be in a room of more than seven Democrats. There were actually about 200 Democrats gathered in the DoubleTree hotel ballroom for the partys annual western South Dakota fundraiser, which featured socializing, speeches and auctions benefitting the state party. Harrison was the headliner. He chaired the Democratic National Committee from 2021 until earlier this year. Previously, he served as the first Black chairperson of the South Carolina Democratic Party and worked as an aide to U.S. Rep. Jim Clyburn. Harrison also founded the Dirt Road Democrats political action committee, which works to engage rural voters, and he hosts a podcast called At Our Table that features conversations with guests about the nations challenges and hopes. In his Saturday night speech, Harrison highlighted Uhre-Balks success. Last year, she became the first Democrat in 18 years to win a seat in her legislative district. According to her, if she wins again, shell be the first Democrat in 30 years to win two consecutive races in the district. A crowd of about 200 attends a South Dakota Democratic Party fundraiser on Sept. 27, 2025, in Rapid City. (Seth Tupper/South Dakota Searchlight) Harrison said the party needs more candidates to follow her lead and ignore the naysayers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement She didnt listen to them, Harrison said. She listened to all of you, and she stood up and she spoke out and she won. The prescription for more results like that, according to Harrison, includes a focus on recruitment. Do not leave any seat in South Dakota uncontested in 2026, he said. Not one. Democrats have a start toward that goal with declared candidates for offices including U.S. Senate, U.S. House and secretary of state. But their only declared candidate for governor so far is a 20-year-old college student, and they face a challenge recruiting candidates in legislative districts that lacked Democrats on the ballot last year. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fundraising, meanwhile, has been a bright spot. The state partys reports to the Federal Election Commission showed $341,000 of income from January through August. A July fundraiser in eastern South Dakota featuring Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz drew a crowd of about 1,000 people. The same periods reports from the South Dakota Republican Party, which has undergone staff turnover including a new chairman in February, showed $41,000 of income. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX Blue and White head Benny Gantz warns in NYT op-ed that recognizing a Palestinian state now risks Israels security and rewards PA failure. The recognition of a Palestinian state by many Western leaders is not "a rejection of Netanyahu, but a rejection of Israels bipartisan security consensus," Blue and White Party head Benny Gantz said in an opinion piece he penned in The New York Times on Wednesday. Gantz, addressing Western leaders, elaborates by saying that Israel's actions and policies during the Gaza war are being viewed through the prism of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and not through the lens of national security. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There are deep political divisions and disagreements in Israel. I myself have been a vocal critic of Mr. Netanyahu. But the nations core security interests are not partisan property. Gantz arguements. According to Gantz, any path forward for broader Palestinian civil autonomy must first incorporate a proven long-term track record of accountable governance, comprehensive de-radicalization reforms and a successful crackdown on terror elements targeting Israelis. Gantz also stated that a recognition of a Palestinian state as it stands today would only mean to give the Palestinian Authority a reward even if it failed to thwart terror originating in its territory against Israel. Leader of the National Unity Party MK Benny Gantz leads a faction meeting at the Knesset, the Israeli parliament in Jerusalem, on May 26, 2025. (credit: NOAM REVKIN FENTON/FLASH90) The PA has incited violence and glorified terrorism in school textbooks, and waged unilateral campaigns to isolate and delegitimize Israel in international forums, he wrote. Gantz says Palestinian Authority was a failure Gantz explained how, after Israel withdrew from Gaza in 2005, the PA was entrusted with the territorys control. He explained, The next year, Hamas won a shocking plurality of seats in the PAs legislative elections, eclipsing its rival faction, Fatah. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hamas violently overthrew Fatah in Gaza the next year, and with help from Iran, Hamas dramatically expanded its military capabilities within Gaza, and ultimately launched the October 7 massacre. He then concludes that, That collapse was not an anomaly; it was the consequence of a Palestinian Authority with little legitimacy among its people and a painful lesson that Israel cannot risk suffering from again in the foreseeable future. Western conceptual lack of understanding for Israel Gantz also described a meeting he had with Spains Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez as something that left him with sheer astonishment at the conceptual lack of understanding. Sanchez remarked that his country also contends with terrorism; but there is no symmetry between defending ones country against sporadically active terror cells in Europe and a terror pseudo-state backed by a country like Iran, Gantz explained. Israels enemies do not care who governs in Jerusalem, he added and the finished by asking the international community to adopt the same clarity, and understand that the Israelis dont see the recognition of a Palestinian state as a matter of personal politics. The German government will begin talks with Afghanistan's Taliban authorities on deportations from Germany, Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt told the Sunday edition of Germany's Bild newspaper, in a step sharply criticized by opposition lawmakers. "Deportations to Afghanistan must be able to take place regularly. That is why we are now negotiating directly in Kabul, so criminals and security risks can be deported consistently in the future," Dobrindt said. Officials from the Interior Ministry are scheduled to travel to Kabul in October to directly negotiate with Taliban representatives on deportations, a ministry spokesman confirmed to the newspaper. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Two weeks ago, Dobrindt said he expected talks in Kabul to start soon. Until then, talks had been described as taking place at a "technical level with Afghan representatives," without specifying where. Contacts with the Taliban are controversial, as Germany does not maintain official diplomatic relations with the group, which returned to power in August 2021 and is internationally isolated due to its human rights abuses, particularly against women. Since the Taliban takeover, Germany has deported groups of Afghan nationals twice, with assistance from Qatar. In August 2024, 28 convicted criminals were sent to Kabul under the previous government. In July, 81 men with criminal records including homicide, sexual offences, violence and drug crimes were deported, according to German authorities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Germany's Green Party and Left Party both slammed Dobrindt's plan to negotiate directly with the Taliban. "By reaching an agreement with the Taliban, Dobrindt is making himself dependent on an Islamist organisation and upgrading its status," Marcel Emmerich, domestic policy spokesman for the Green Party, told dpa. He described this as a slap in the face for all those who have fought for democracy against the Taliban for years. "Anyone who negotiates with the Taliban legitimises and trivializes terrorists," Clara Bunger, deputy leader of the Left Party in the Bundestag, or German parliament, told the Rheinische Post newspaper. The talks aim "to prepare for large-scale deportations to a country where torture, public executions and floggings are the order of the day. Anyone who makes such deals is complicit," she added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But Alexander Throm, interior specialist for the conservative bloc to which Dobrindt also belongs, welcomed the interior minister's announcements. "Refugees who commit crimes here must leave the country after serving their prison sentences. This also applies to people from Syria and Afghanistan," he told the Rheinische Post newspaper. "Only in this way can the acceptance of our asylum system continue to be protected." The Palestinian militant organization Hamas has urgently called on the Israeli army to cease its attacks on Gaza City for 24 hours. The lives of two Israeli hostages are in real danger, according to a statement from the military wing of Hamas, the al-Qassam Brigades. The troops must also immediately withdraw to an area south of Street 8 in Gaza City so that an attempt can be made to "extract" the two hostages. This, they said, is a warning. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The demand for a halt to the attacks is to take effect from 6 pm (1500 GMT), the statement said. The al-Qassam Brigades had earlier stated that contact with the two hostages had been lost in the last 48 hours due to the intense Israeli attacks in the city. It was initially unclear whether Israel would comply with the demand. The relatives of the 48 remaining hostages - including 20 still alive - have repeatedly warned of the danger a ground offensive in Gaza City poses to their loved ones. The statement came after reports on Sunday revealed the full details of the Trump administration's 21-point plan to reach a hostage deal and ceasefire in Gaza. Hamas said on Sunday that it has not received anynew proposals from mediators, adding that negotiations have been frozen since the attempted assassination of its leaders in Qatar. Hamas is ready to positively and responsibly consider any proposal that arrives from the mediators, provided that such a proposal protects the national rights of the Palestinians, the terror group said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The statement came after reports on Sunday revealed the full details of the Trump administration's 21-point plan to reach a hostage deal and ceasefire in Gaza. Hamas made similar statements on Friday after Israeli newspaper Haaretz cited sources saying Hamas had agreed in principle to release all the Israeli hostages it holds in return for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners and the gradual withdrawal of Israeli troops under Trump's plan. "Hamas has not been presented with any plan," a Hamas official who asked not to be named told Reuters on Friday. Smoke rises during an Israeli military operation in Gaza City, as seen from the central Gaza Strip September 27, 2025. (credit: REUTERS/Mahmoud Issa) According to the Qatari Al-Araby channel, Arab states have made amendments to the US initiative aimed at ending the war in the Gaza Strip. The revised version is expected to be presented to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu by Trump during their upcoming meeting on Monday. Details of the Trump hostage deal proposal While details of the revisions made by Arab states are yet to be revealed, the US proposal calls for the release of all 48 remaining hostages within the first 48 hours of the deal taking effect. In exchange, Israel would halt major combat operations in Gaza and begin phased withdrawals from certain areas of the Strip. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The proposal also envisions amnesty for Hamas leaders, who would be granted assurances that they would not be targeted during the ceasefire. In addition, it seeks to launch internationally backed discussions on the establishment of a Palestinian state as part of a broader postwar framework. Reconstruction funding from Arab states and the wider international community would also be provided, but only under conditions that include security guarantees and international monitoring of aid distribution. Arab governments have pressed for these changes in order to ensure that the deal addresses not only the immediate hostage crisis but also the longer-term political and humanitarian dimensions of the conflict. Trump is expected to personally urge Netanyahu to accept the modifications, presenting the plan as a historic opportunity to end the war while restoring American influence in the region. The Hostages and Missing Families Forum strongly criticized the government, accusing it of once again avoiding a realistic chance to bring home the captives. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Netanyahus refusal to respond to Trumps initiative is troubling, the forum said. The Hostages Forum warns against another attempt at sabotage by Netanyahu and [Strategic Affairs Minister Ron] Dermer and calls on the US administration and Trump not to allow the prime minister to derail this historic initiative. Israeli officials have so far remained tight-lipped about the details of the proposal. Security sources, however, have expressed concern that granting amnesty to Hamas leaders and opening statehood talks under fire could strengthen the terrorist group and weaken Israels deterrence. Netanyahu is expected to face intense pressure in his meeting with Trump, who has sought to position himself as the only figure capable of delivering both a ceasefire and a regional breakthrough. BEIRUT (Reuters) -Lebanese armed group Hezbollah on Saturday commemorated one year since leader Hassan Nasrallah was killed by Israel, the opening salvo of a war that ultimately battered his once-powerful group and left swathes of Lebanon in ruins. A string of Israeli bunker-busting bombs on a Hezbollah complex in Beirut's southern suburbs killed Nasrallah, who had led the powerful Shi'ite religious, political and military group for more than 30 years. His heir apparent Hashem Safieddine was killed weeks later. Now pressure is swelling on the group to disarm - a demand Hezbollah has rejected. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hezbollah's secretary general, Naim Qassem, who assumed the post a month after Nasrallah's killing, delivered a speech to mark the anniversary. He reaffirmed that Hezbollah would not allow disarmament and warned of a fierce confrontation, describing the fight as an existential battle that the group was capable of facing. Crowds, including Iran's Supreme National Security Council Secretary Ali Larijani, gathered in Hezbollah strongholds in the southern suburbs of Beirut, Lebanon's south and east, to mark the day. Tensions over the commemoration have been mounting this week, particularly after Hezbollah projected the portraits of Nasrallah and Safieddine on the towering rocks off the coast of Beirut. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The display went ahead, despite orders by Lebanese Prime Minister Nawaf Salam and the Beirut governor not to do so, angering Lebanese opponents of Hezbollah who said the cliffs should not be used for political displays. Nasrallah became secretary general of Hezbollah in 1992 aged just 35 after his predecessor, Sayyed Abbas al-Musawi, was killed in an Israeli helicopter attack. With his fiery speeches, he swiftly became the public face of a once-shadowy group founded by Iran's Revolutionary Guards in 1982 to fight Israeli occupation forces. The day after Hamas' cross-border attack into Israel on October 7, 2023, Hezbollah entered the fray in solidarity with its Palestinian ally by firing on Israel from southern Lebanon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement That prompted exchanges of fire for nearly a year before Israel sharply escalated by detonating explosives-rigged communication devices used by Hezbollah, pummelling the country with air strikes and sending troops into Lebanon's south. More than 4,000 people were ultimately killed in Israel's military assault, including more than 300 children. Despite a truce, Israel continues to carry out deadly strikes in Lebanon. The Israeli military says they target Hezbollah militants and facilities used by the group to store weapons. Israel's air and ground campaign prevented a formal burial for Nasrallah for months. Followers have since flocked to his grave to pray. (Reporting by Laila Bassam; Additional reporting by Enas Alashray; Writing by Maya Gebeily; Editing by William Mallard and Alison Williams) Were now three days from a shutdown of the federal government. There could be an impact thats not getting a lot of attention. And the Presidents executive order for a massive increase to the fee for a specialized visa could keep a lot of people out of the country who are needed. Host Jim Niedelman gets into that with former Iowa Congressman Dave Loebsack and former Iowa republican Party Chair Steve Grubbs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The way its structured it really cuts out startups, which I think is disappointing; it should be structured in a way thats a graduated fee; small companies like ours would be able to afford something for less, Grubbs said. This is the kind of thing thats happened before; I dont know if theyre trying to raise some extra money for the federal government or what theyre doing, Loebsack said. To hear more from the panel, click on the video. Local 4 News, your local election headquarters, is proud to present 4 the Record, a weekly news and public affairs program focused on the issues important to you. Its a program unlike any other here in the Quad Cities. Tune in each Sunday at 10:30 a.m. as Jim Niedelman brings you up to speed on whats happening in the political arena, from Springfield, Des Moines, Washington, D.C. and right here at home. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHBF - OurQuadCities.com. A new House panel will re-investigate the Jan. 6 Capitol attack with an eye toward recasting the narrative about the events in Washington that day. Its the latest sign that the deadly riot remains a wound on Congress that might never fully heal amid ferocious partisan sparring. Retribution, not reconciliation, appears to be the prime motivation behind the new probe, with the Republicans behind it still bitter over the work of the panels previous iteration, which was largely led by Democrats and concluded President Donald Trump was singularly to blame for the violence inflicted by his supporters. One GOP member of the new panel, Louisiana Rep. Clay Higgins, did not rule out questioning members of the prior committee. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They were not invested in actual investigative work anyway, said Higgins, who has pushed an unfounded theory that FBI agents helped coordinate the events at the Capitol. That thing was never legitimate. It was always biased. And therefore, if we question them, it may be with the angle of having them implicate themselves in lies that they presented as truth. Speaker Mike Johnson called it "a committee investigating the previous committee" in a CNN interview Sunday and said the prior effort "was rigged." The panels chair, Georgia Rep. Barry Loudermilk, describes the investigation more soberly. He said in an interview that GOP staff have been quietly toiling for months, even before Johnson moved to formalize the probe this month. Loudermilk said his team has been talking to different entities, reviewing documents and brainstorming potential investigative targets. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We need to look at it from a factual standpoint, he said. Its dangerous out there. There were a lot of civilians, as well as members of Congress and staff and even press that were here on Jan. 6. And I think were all interested to know, why did the Capitol get breached regardless of who did it how did it get breached? But to Democrats and even some Republicans, that rationale is a smokescreen for the panels true purpose: rewriting the history of Jan. 6, 2021, to minimize the culpability of the president and supporters who violently assaulted police officers and entered the Capitol in an attempt to disrupt the final certification of Trump's 2020 election loss. The security failures Loudermilk cited have been the subject of a slew of wide-ranging investigations: a review by retired Army Lt. Gen. Russel Honore, a series of reports by the Capitol Polices inspector general, a bipartisan Senate review and two appendices in the final report of the previous House Jan. 6 select committee. That previous select committee concluded that Trumps incendiary rhetoric, and months of false claims to sow doubt about his defeat in the 2020 election, inflamed his supporters shortly before he directed them to march on the Capitol. But the review also acknowledged that Capitol security officials were underprepared for the onslaught, leading to the breach of the building and several near-confrontations between rioters and lawmakers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement They can't even seem to settle on which conspiracy theory they want to advance, said Democratic Rep. Jamie Raskin of Maryland, who served on the previous Jan. 6 panel and serves on the new one. Was it Antifa? Did it not happen at all? Did Donald Trump really win the election? They can't figure out what it is they want to say, and it's because it's just a tissue of lies and conspiracy theories. The backdrop for the new GOP-led investigation is Trumps return to the presidency and his persistent efforts to reject any blame for the attack and to accuse his political enemies of persecuting his supporters. On his first day back in office, Trump pardoned about 1,000 members of the mob and ordered his Justice Department to drop pending criminal cases against hundreds of others. Trump has spent the intervening years downplaying the violence that occurred that day, which left more than 100 police officers injured. One officer died a day after the riot after suffering strokes, and several others died of suicide in subsequent weeks. Four Trump supporters died in the violence, including one who was shot by a Capitol Police officer as she attempted to enter the lobby that leads onto the House floor. The attack remains a raw issue on Capitol Hill. Sen. Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) helped sink the nomination of conservative attorney Ed Martin to be Trumps top prosecutor in Washington, citing Martins advocacy for Jan. 6 criminal defendants and his comments about the attack. FBI Director Kash Patel has faced intense questioning about his own advocacy for Jan. 6 defendants and his role in producing a rendition of the National Anthem by some of the most violent offenders that day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There is even an ongoing controversy over whether to hang a plaque previously commissioned by Congress to honor those who protected the Capitol that day. Johnson has refused to display the memorial, and Loudermilk, while expressing personal support for the officers, said that decision is not in my decisionmaking wheelhouse. Meanwhile, the prior select committee, led by Rep. Bennie Thompson (D-Miss.) and former Rep. Liz Cheney (R-Wyo.), remains a particular sore spot for Trump and many Republicans. Even after it was disbanded, Trump continued calling its report a Hoax and its leaders Political Hacks and Thugs while championing Loudermilks work. Reinvestigating the attack has been a longstanding priority for the Georgia Republican, who came under scrutiny by the previous Jan. 6 panel for hosting a tour of the complex the night before the Capitol riot. One person in his party was later found to have posted incendiary videos and marched toward, but not into, the building the next day. Neither Loudermilk nor anyone in his tour group was accused of any wrongdoing, but the Jan. 6 committee interviewed one of the group members and questioned why Loudermilk did not inform authorities about the presence of his group. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After Republicans retook the House majority in 2023, Loudermilk led a probe on the failures and politicization of the January 6th Select Committee as chair of the House Administration Subcommittee on Oversight. In that investigation, some entities were uncooperative with his requests, Loudermilk said. This time, in helming a select subcommittee under the Judiciary Committee, he has full subpoena power to compel compliance with his demands. We think weve got a little more cooperation at this point, he said. The formal creation of Loudermilks panel followed months of negotiations over its scope and powers, with Loudermilk pushing for greater jurisdiction than Johnsons team had been willing to give and complaining to fellow Republicans about how GOP leadership was trying to stifle his effort. Then the Trump administration privately applied pressure to get the effort set up, Loudermilk told reporters earlier this year. Johnson, who was central to the effort on Capitol Hill to overturn the 2020 election, acted quietly inserting a provision establishing the panel as part of an unrelated procedural measure. One House Republican, who requested anonymity to discuss sensitive dynamics around the panel, was unaware the subcommittee even existed before being asked about it by a POLITICO reporter. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Besides Loudermilk and Higgins, the panels members are Republican Reps. Morgan Griffith of Virginia, Troy Nehls of Texas and Harriet Hageman of Wyoming, as well as Democratic Reps. Eric Swalwell of California, Jasmine Crockett of Texas and Jared Moskowitz of Florida. House Judiciary Chair Jim Jordan (R-Ohio) will serve as an ex officio member alongside Raskin, the top Judiciary Democrat. These lawmakers are some of the most aggressive political messengers of their respective parties. Nehls sued the government over what he claimed was retaliation from the Capitol Police for his criticism of the forces handling of the Jan. 6 Capitol attack. Hageman unseated Cheney after she was ostracized by her party for her leading role in the prior panel and her unrelenting criticism of Trump. The panel is wasting no time in launching an effort to review the findings of that previous committee. Earlier this month, Loudermilk sent letters to some businesses and other entities that had been in contact with the previous Jan. 6 panel to request data that was deleted or not otherwise archived. That committee disclosed a host of information in its possession, but some materials including footage of its interviews remain unreleased. Other details of what the panels work will entail in the coming months remain sketchy. Loudermilk said he anticipates releasing a final report, while hearings would be called based on a need and based on the evidence that we're collecting. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He added that his team was focusing on the unsolved mystery of the pipe bombs placed near the Republican National Committee and Democratic National Committee offices the day before the riot and the FBIs use of confidential human sources who were present at the Capitol. Patel recently said the bureaus pipe bomb investigation remained active and promising. The Justice Departments inspector general reported in December that there were 26 FBI sources present in Washington on Jan. 6 but only three had actually been tasked by the bureau with tracking potential bad actors. Both issues have fueled conspiracy theories about government involvement in the violence that day. Johnson in the CNN interview Sunday repeated an unfounded narrative endorsed by Trump that there were hundreds of FBI agents in the crowd as the Capitol was stormed a misapprehension of data released by the bureau that includes agents dispatched to the scene after the violence broke out. Loudermilk said he intends to steer his panel away from politics. I'm trying to make it clear I do not want this to be a partisan clown show, he said. This isn't about getting clicks or media interviews. Meredith Lee Hill contributed to this report. Rights group says Iran-backed Houthi terrorists detained 1,063 people and raided 123 homes for marking the 1962 revolution in 2024-2025, with families left unaware of detainees whereabouts. Houthi terrorists in Yemen have arrested 1,063 Yemenis across Houthi-controlled areas in the north of the country for celebrating the September 26 Revolution over the past two years, the Yemeni Network for Rights and Freedoms claimed on Friday. This includes 613 arrests and 123 home raids this month, the organization added. Mohammed Al-Omda, head of the organization, claimed that the home raids were due to the civilians' intent to "raise the national flag," in a statement to the anti-Houthi Yemeni News Agency (Saba). Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Arrests often take place on public roads, in homes, markets, and mosques, where victims are restrained and their phones and documents confiscated before being transferred to unknown detention centers," Omda claimed, adding that families are allegedly often unaware of the locations of their detained relatives. In addition, the organization recorded "violations against Yemeni civilians" conducted by the Houthi terrorists since they claimed power in Sanaa on September 21, 2014. Police troopers chant slogans as they join protesters, predominantly Houthi supporters, during a demonstration in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza, in Sanaa, Yemen August 15, 2025. (credit: REUTERS/KHALED ABDULLAH) In total, there were 160,955 "violations" recorded, including the killing and injury of 55,402 civilians, the organization claims. This figure, which the organization states does not include military figures, also includes 189 tribal leaders and "social figures." In addition, approximately 7,000 civilians were killed or injured by Houthi landmines, the organization alleges. Why is September 26 a sensitive date for the Houthi leadership in Sanaa? The September 26 Revolution refers to when the republican movement, backed by Egypt, staged a coup in Sanaa in 1962, deposing the Saudi-backed Mutawakkilite Kingdom of Yemen, forming the North Yemen Republic. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This led to the formation of the North Yemen Republic, and a civil war which lasted until 1970. The Zaydi Shia tribes of northern Yemen, of which the Houthi clan is a part, fought alongside the deposed kingdom in the civil war. Roberts had been working as an educator for 20 years and was brought on as superintendent of Des Moines Public Schools in 2023. Immigration authorities detained the superintendent of the Des Moines pubic school system yesterday and held him in the Pottawattamie County Jail. Ian Roberts, who has been an educator for 20 years, was arrested on a final order of removal and had no work authorization, according to a statement from DHS to The Guardian. Interviews and biographies of Roberts say that he was raised in Brooklyn, New York, by immigrant parents from the South American country of Guyana. The database for Immigration and Customs Enforcement lists Guyana as Roberts place of birth. The educator had worked in schools all over the country, including Washington, D.C., Baltimore, St. Louis, and Erie, Pennsylvania. He came on as superintendent of Des Moines Public Schools, the largest school district in the state, in 2023. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The statement from ICE said that Roberts entered the U.S. on a student visa in 1999. The federal agency also said Roberts was in possession of a loaded handgun, $3,000 in cash, and a fixed blade hunting knife. It was when he was living in Pennsylvania in 2020 that Roberts was arrested on a firearms charge related to a hunting rifle, which he disclosed to the Des Moines Public School District, according to a statement from DMPS. He provided sufficient context and explanation of the situation to move forward in the hiring process. He has also spoken publicly about this experience, the districts statement said. The Des Moines School Board will have a special session today to discuss Roberts arrest. Roberts took to social media, addressing the gun charge on the Instagram page for the Millcreek Township School District, where he was superintendent at the time. He also questioned whether there was racial discrimination involved in the charge. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I may not appear to be the type of man who would enjoy deer season in Pennsylvania, in fact, I am and have been hunting for more than 20 years, Roberts wrote in the Instagram post. Roberts holds degrees from Coppin State University, where he received his bachelors degree, and St. Johns University, where he received his Master of Education and his Doctor of Education in Urban Educational Leadership. He is also an athlete who competed in the 2000 Olympics in Sydney, Australia, representing Guyana in track and field. Des Moines residents quickly protested Roberts arrest in the citys downtown area. According to local broadcaster KCCI Des Moines, a crowd of over 200 people gathered on Friday afternoon outside of the Neal Smith Federal building, many with signs denouncing ICE and in support of Roberts. The DMPS confirmed in its statement that Roberts had completed the documentation required to teach in Iowa schools, including the I-9 employment eligibility verification. He was also licensed by the Iowa Board of Educational Examiners in July 2023, according to the district. More must-reads: The military also later announced that it killed dozens of terrorists, dismantled tunnel shafts and underground tunnel routes, and located concealed weapons in civilian areas. The Israel Air Force killed Nukhba company commander Hasan Mahmoud Hasan Hussein in a strike in Gaza City on Sunday. The IDF stated that Hussein also took part in abducting Israeli citizens on October 7, 2023, and the massacre of several Israeli civilians when he threw a grenade into a bomb shelter in Re'im, near Route 232. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As part of his role in the Bureij Battalion, he reportedly directed, led, and executed several terrorist attacks against IDF troops operating in the Gaza Strip. Hussein acted alongside Muhammad Abu Atiwi. The two invaded Israel together on October 7, the IDF noted. Atiwi was killed in October 2024. Separately, the IDF struck a high-rise building in Gaza City on Sunday, the military announced in an earlier statement. The military reported that the building contained Hamas military infrastructure that was used to assist terror operations against IDF troops in the area. The IDF killed Nukhba terrorist Hasan Mahmoud Hasan Hussein on September 28, 2025. (credit: IDF SPOKESMANS UNIT) IDF operates in Gaza City "Prior to the strike, steps were taken in order to mitigate harm to civilians as much as possible, including advanced warnings to the population, the use of precise munitions, aerial surveillance, and additional intelligence," the IDF stated. It added that Gaza's terrorists regularly violate international law and exploit civilian structures to use the enclave's civilian population as a human shield. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Later, the military announced that in the past weeks, troops of the 188th Armored Brigade and the 828th Brigade operating in Gaza City had killed dozens of terrorists, dismantled tunnel shafts and underground tunnel routes, and located concealed weapons in civilian areas. Also on Sunday, IDF troops eliminated a terror cell in Gaza. Prior to the event, soldiers identified a terrorist who attempted to plant an explosive device near an IDF tank. Shortly afterwards, the troops identified a separate terror cell, and the Israel Air Force eliminated it. This comes as the IDF began Operation Gideon's Chariots II to invade Gaza City. Since the start of the operation in late August, the military has struck several high-rise buildings and occupied at least half of the city. Military estimates say more than 800,000 residents have already left Gaza City. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The IDF now controls several neighborhoods across Gaza City, including Tel al-Hawa, Al-Nadi, Zeitoun, Sheikh Ajleen, Shejaia, and Tuffah. IAF airstrikes hit around 140 targets over the course of Saturday, including weapons storage sites, command structures, and operatives from various terrorist organizations. In Gaza City, troops identified five terrorists who fired anti-tank missiles from a building at a patrol. No Israeli casualties were reported. In coordination with ground forces and the brigades firepower unit, the IAF struck the site, eliminating the cell in what the IDF described as a rapid closing of the circle. IAF aircraft eliminated a terrorist cell that fired an RPG at IDF soldiers The IDF continued operations in the Gaza Strip, targeting terrorist infrastructure and operatives across multiple fronts, the military said on Sunday. Airstrikes hit around 140 targets in the past 24 hours, including weapons storage sites, command structures, and operatives from various terrorist organizations. In Gaza City, troops identified five terrorists who fired anti-tank missiles from a building at a patrol. No Israeli casualties were reported. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In coordination with ground forces and the brigades firepower unit, the IAF struck the site, eliminating the cell in what the IDF described as a rapid closing of the circle. Elsewhere in Gaza City, soldiers expanded Israels operational control, destroying Hamas infrastructure and fighting centers with Air Force support. In the southern Gaza Strip, troops eliminated several terrorists and targeted observation posts and military facilities. IDF soliers operate in the Gaza Strip, September 28, 2025. (credit: IDF SPOKESPERSON'S UNIT) Approximately 1,200 people were killed, and 252 Israelis and foreigners were taken hostage in Hamass attacks on Israeli communities near the Gaza border on October 7. Of the 48 remaining hostages, about 20 are believed to be alive. ST. PETE BEACH A federal judge dealt the city a setback Sept. 16 in its ongoing battle over noise control. The judge ruled the city violated the First Amendment by severely limiting what musical instruments a waterfront restaurant could play outdoors. U.S. District Judge Kathryn Kimball Mizelle issued a preliminary injunction blocking the city from enforcing restrictions that allowed the dockside restaurant Red, White & Booze to offer only unamplified acoustic string instruments, except during a few hours on Saturdays and Sundays, according to court documents. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The city had banned bass instruments and drums entirely. The ruling comes as Pinellas beaches grapple with mounting noise complaints from residents who say loud music from bars and restaurants disrupts their neighborhoods. St. Pete Beach commissioners spent months this year debating a stricter noise ordinance before shelving the proposal in August after fierce opposition from business owners and musicians. The First Amendment protects the instrumental part of music, regardless of whether the piece includes lyrics, Mizelle wrote in her 26-page decision, according to the News Service of Florida. To regulate the kinds of instrumental sounds that compose a musical work or performance is to regulate music based on its content. The judge rejected the citys argument that the restrictions were content-neutral attempts to control noise levels near residential areas. Instead, she found the instrument ban amounted to content-based censorship that failed strict constitutional scrutiny. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Perhaps more fundamentally, instrumental music is expressive in its own right, Mizelle wrote. It can lift up or cast down the spirit, raise the mind to heaven or distract with terrestrial matters, and stir the human soul to heroic or base deeds, all of which prove instrumental musics power to communicate. Charles and Helen Collom acquired Red, White & Booze in 2022 and planned to feature live music in their outdoor dining area, court records show. The city required them to obtain a permit that severely limited their musical options amplified outdoor music with string instruments was allowed only during limited weekend afternoon hours. The restaurant operators filed a federal lawsuit alleging First Amendment violations, according to the News Service of Florida. Though the judge blocked enforcement of the instrument and amplification restrictions, she left intact the permits time limits and decibel requirements. The ruling noted that continued validity of the permits restrictions on absolute noise levels abates any concern about disturbances related to loud music. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The decision highlights the broader noise tensions plaguing Pinellas beaches. Earlier this year, St. Pete Beach commissioners considered a more restrictive ordinance that would have imposed quiet hours as early as 7 p.m. and prohibited amplified sound audible from 200 feet away during nighttime hours. Dozens of restaurant owners, musicians and residents packed city meetings to oppose the changes, arguing they would devastate the beachs tourism-dependent economy. The city ultimately tabled the proposal until 2026, opting instead to focus on enforcing existing noise rules. Similar noise battles have erupted across the county. Pinellas Countys noise ordinance allows 72 decibels in residential areas between 7 a.m. and 11 p.m., dropping to 55 decibels roughly the level of normal conversation after 11 p.m. The sheriffs office handles excessive noise complaints. In her ruling, Mizelle acknowledged that noise reduction, particularly near residential areas, seems to be the goal behind St. Pete Beachs restrictions, the News Service of Florida reported. But she warned that even well-intentioned regulations can become tools for censorship. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Innocent motives do not eliminate the danger of censorship presented by a facially content-based rule, as future government officials may one day wield such statutes to suppress disfavored expression, she wrote. The judge noted that instrument-based restrictions risk suppressing musical genres that depend on banned instruments, citing New York Citys former cabaret laws that prohibited jazz clubs from using drums and other instruments central to that musical style. The preliminary injunction allows Red, White & Booze to use a full range of instruments and amplification while the constitutional challenge proceeds through federal court. The restaurant can continue offering live music subject to the permits time restrictions and decibel limits. Defense Minister Israel Katz warns Hamas to disarm and release hostages as the IDF gains control of over half of Gaza City and demolishes terror infrastructure. Defense Minister Israel Katz threatened Hamas terrorists in Gaza with serious consequences if the war continues in a post on X/Twitter on Saturday night. "If Hamas does not release all the hostages and disarm, Gaza will be destroyed and Hamas will be eliminated," he wrote. "We will not stop until all the war's objectives are achieved," he added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Katz noted that his warning comes amid the IDF intensifying operations in Gaza City, with over 750,000 residents evacuating to the south of the enclave. During the operations, the IDF has destroyed terror infrastructure, including what Katz referred to as "terror towers." The military linked terror infrastructure with Gaza City high rises which were demolished in the beginning of the operation to take control of the last remaining Hamas stronghold. Smoke rises as a building hit by an Israeli air strike collapses, in Gaza City, September 5, 2025 (credit: REUTERS) Southern Command assesses IDF controls over half of Gaza City The IDF's Southern Command assessed that the military gained operational control of more than half of Gaza City as of Saturday. Sources in the Southern Command told Walla that the IDFs territorial gains resulted from coordinated maneuvers at multiple points by various divisions as part of Operation Gideons Chariots II. Amir Bohbot contributed to this report. LEBANON COUNTY, Pa. (WHTM) Highlighting and supporting local nonprofits, thats the mission of an annual motorcycle ride in Lebanon County. Due to Covid, the ride was put off for a few years, but it returned to the Midstate this weekend and dozens of bikers participated. They gathered at the Gravel Hill United Methodist Church in Palmyra bright and early Saturday morning. It started about ten years ago, said Ashley Zimmerman, ministry and community events coordinator for the church. Just a way to get out in the community, to share nonprofits, to share, you know, help guide, love the people of Palmyra and surrounding areas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This year the ride benefits the nonprofit, Team Vienna 4 SUDC Awareness. SUDC is a category of death in kids one to eighteen years old. After a thorough investigation, autopsy and medical record review, theres still no cause for the death and this is something that even us in the medical field do not learn about. We dont hear about it, said Viennas mom, Dr. Denise Wunderler. So, what happened to us that happened to my little daughter, Vienna, in 2017 it then became quickly became my mission to essentially educate the world about this. Since we dont hear about it, we dont learn about it. Dr. Wunderler said the nonprofits main mission is to increase awareness, education and research support for SUDC, Sudden Unexplained Death in Childhood in honor of Vienna. For instance, they raised and donated more than thirty thousand dollars to Boston Childrens hospital for more research and continue spreading awareness through their documentary Vienna: Suddenly an Angel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its a 20 minute documentary thats been in a lot of different film festivals in the area, Wunderler added. And now, Chelsea Film Festival next month actually in New York City. And weve been winning awards, which has been fantastic. So, its getting more attention. And church officials like Zimmerman are glad nonprofits like this one can get some attention through the bike ride. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC27. The Chicago Teachers Union is catching heat for a social media post that reverently remembered the legacy of Joanne Chesimard, who died in Cuba on Friday and was convicted of killing a New Jersey State Trooper decades ago. Rest in Power, Rest in Peace, Assata Shakur, the post on X said. Today we honor the life and legacy of a revolutionary fighter, a fierce writer, a revered elder of Black liberation, and a leader of freedom whose spirit continues to live in our struggle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Assata refused to be silenced. She taught us that It is our duty to fight for our freedom. It is our duty to win. We must love each other and support each other. We have nothing to lose but our chains. Chesimard, also known as Assata Shakur, was 78 years old when she died of natural causes, the Cuban Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Friday. Chesimard had lived in Cuba since 1979 after escaping from a New Jersey prison after being convicted of killing New Jersey State Trooper Werner Foerster in 1973. She had been on the State Polices most wanted list for decades. A $2 million reward had been offered for her capture. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The unions social media post spurred criticism that it was honoring someone convicted of killing a police officer. Matthew Enuco Stories by Matthew Enuco Read the original article on NJ.com. Add NJ.com as a Preferred Source by clicking here. CHICAGO In the run-up to former FBI Director James Comeys indictment, there was no question who would step up to represent him. Friend and former colleague Patrick Fitzgerald, who served as U.S. attorney in Chicago for over a decade, would spring from retirement to be his man. Nationally, Fitzgerald is best known for his role as special prosecutor in the investigation into a CIA leak that brought charges against I. Lewis Scooter Libby. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement But to Chicago, Fitzgerald is something of a legend. The George W. Bush appointee left an indelible legacy as a scrupulous, hard-charging prosecutor who disrupted the kinds of crooked backroom deals that were long a trademark of Illinois politics. Over his nearly 12-year tenure as U.S. attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, his prosecutions took down the Chicago mob, put two consecutive governors one Republican, one Democratic behind bars and won a conviction against a top donor to Barack Obama just as Obama was running for the White House. He jailed longtime untouchables in Chicago and Springfield political circles while prosecuting international cases, including a Hamas funding scheme and major terrorism cases. Still in the Chicago area, Fitzgerald retired as a top partner at the law firm Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom two years ago and was enjoying spending more time with his family while doing some teaching. Hes entering the national spotlight to be Comeys attorney out of longtime loyalty to a dear friend, those close to him say. But hes potentially embarking on what could become a political firestorm. President Donald Trump made clear in his own social media post that he wanted his attorney general to bring charges against Comey. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Comey implicitly trusts Pat Fitzgerald. Theyve been best friends, or really good friends, for years, said Robert Grant, former FBI special agent in charge of the Chicago office at the time Fitzgerald served as U.S. attorney. Theyre that close, and he also has a tremendous amount of respect for Pat. When Fitzgerald landed in Chicago in 2001, he was dubbed Eliot Ness with a Harvard Law degree. But before that, he was the first to bring a case against Osama bin Laden in 1996 years before bin Laden masterminded the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. It was one-term Illinois Republican Sen. Peter Fitzgerald (no relation) who recommended Patrick Fitzgerald for the post, at the time saying he wanted someone to lead the office who was unassailable and unafraid to root out public corruption. Pat was out of central casting to be the incorruptible guy that was in aggressive pursuit of the facts and dispensing justice and vindicating the publics right for honest government, said Patrick Collins, a former federal prosecutor who led the case against former Gov. George Ryan, a Republican. As a line assistant who was intensely involved in a prosecution and worked in an office that had a reputation for prosecuting without fear or favor, having Pat Fitzgerald as your boss he had your back, he added. We always knew that cases would rise or fall on the facts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fitzgeralds and Comeys personal styles couldnt be more different. For years, Comey has publicly clashed with Trump, who fired him during his first White House term. Most controversially, Comey held a news conference days before the 2016 presidential election to disclose new findings of an investigation into Hillary Clintons emails. Comey also frequently posts on social media including a video on the day of his indictment vowing to take on Trump. For his part, Fitzgerald is unassuming and does not relish being in the limelight, those close to him say. Fitzgerald, an Amherst College and Harvard Law graduate, had a steel-trap mind when they worked together, Grant said, describing a photographic memory that would allow him to rattle off cellphone numbers of defendants years after prosecuting a case. But his demeanor was shaped by humble beginnings in Brooklyn, where he grew up the son of a hotel doorman. Theres a little bit of hubris you see in Comey that you dont see in Pat, Grant said. When you first meet Pat, hes so down-to-earth that you dont realize what a brilliant mind there is behind that genial exterior. Whoever that prosecutor is, shes up against a damn good lawyer. Lindsey Halligan, the new interim U.S. attorney in the Eastern District of Virginia, presented the case to secure Comeys indictment on her own, according to a source familiar with the grand jury proceedings in Alexandria, Virginia, on Thursday. A senior Justice Department official told NBC News that career prosecutors in Halligans office sent her a memo saying they believed probable cause did not exist to secure the indictment. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump tapped Halligan who has no prosecutorial experience but was on his defense team in the Mar-a-Lago classified documents case after the previous acting U.S. attorney left the position under pressure from the president to prosecute Comey. When he gained national exposure for prosecuting Libby, Fitzgerald became something of a media darling. He was sometimes referred to jokingly as prosecutie, according to one of his friends, and in 2005, much to his dismay at the time, he was named in People magazines sexiest men alive issue. The straight-laced prosecutor appeared visibly uncomfortable when reporters asked him about the designation at a news conference. I almost enjoy going back to the leak questions I cant answer, he said at the time. I played a lot of practical jokes on people for a lot of years, and they all got even at once. OK, new topic. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Fitzgeralds investigations during his time in Chicago broke open a seminal case against the criminal organization known as the Chicago Outfit. Dubbed Operation Family Secrets, his office brought sweeping charges against more than a dozen mobsters and exposed evidence of 18 previously unsolved murders dating back decades. He also dug into Chicago City Hall, then under the longtime grip of Mayor Richard M. Daley. A massive investigation into an illicit trucking operation sent dozens to prison and exposed the underbelly of city corruption. Fitzgerald had plenty of detractors. Many of their criticisms stemmed from one of the highest-profile cases to come of his office: the prosecution of then-Gov. Rod Blagojevich. The yearslong investigation culminated in the stunning 2008 arrest of a sitting governor. Though several of his aides were already convicted of related crimes, Blagojevich, a Democrat, spoke openly on the phone with the FBI listening about how he could extract a personal benefit in exchange for naming the successor to what was then Obamas vacant Senate seat. In one of the best-known lines of the case, Blagojevich was recorded relishing a potential payout from using his power as governor to name the next U.S. senator: Ive got this thing, and its f-----g golden. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Blagojevich was also later convicted of trying to shake down a childrens hospital executive for a $25,000 campaign contribution in exchange for an increase to pediatric reimbursement rates, as well as holding up action on a horse-racing bill while he illegally sought a $100,000 campaign contribution. In laying out the charges on the day of the governors arrest, Fitzgerald declared Blagojevich was on a public corruption spree that would make Lincoln roll over in his grave. Fitzgerald faced criticism for making extrajudicial remarks and potentially prejudicing a jury. For years, Blagojevich assailed Fitzgerald for bringing the weight of the office against him. Trump first commuted Blagojevichs sentence, then pardoned him earlier this year. Then there was the Libby case, which involved extensive travel to Washington, D.C., while managing the Chicago office and its myriad blockbuster cases. According to law enforcement officials who worked under him, he never dropped the ball back home. At the same time, Fitzgerald drew national attention as he handled the investigation, which sought to uncover who leaked the identity of Valerie Plame Wilson, a covert CIA agent. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At one point in the case, New York Times reporter Judith Miller was jailed for refusing to disclose her sources. Fitzgerald took heat from conservatives who called him overzealous in attempting to notch a conviction against Libby, who had served as then-Vice President Dick Cheneys chief of staff. Bush commuted Libbys 30-month sentence, and in 2017, Trump pardoned him, saying he had heard Libby was treated unfairly. In a statement at the time, Fitzgerald defended the prosecution, saying Libby lied repeatedly and blatantly about matters at the heart of a criminal investigation concerning the disclosure of a covert intelligence officers identity. Those who worked with Fitzgerald in Chicago defended him as zealously apolitical, noting he served under presidents of both parties. They held up his body of work as evidence he was no friend to those on either side of the aisle. I worked with him for nine years. I have no idea if hes a Republican or a Democrat, and it quite frankly never came up. Hes entirely about justice and doing the right thing, said Eric Sussman, a defense attorney who worked as an assistant U.S. attorney under Fitzgerald. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sussman prosecuted a corruption case against onetime media baron Conrad Black, another high-profile defendant sent to prison in that era after he was convicted of diverting proceeds from his newspaper sales for his personal use. Like with Blagojevich, Trump would eventually pardon Black. Pat really professionalized the office and made sure that everyone underneath him operated with the same professionalism, integrity and commitment to doing the right thing in Justice, Sussman added. That carried over not just to the attorneys in the office, but to how people in Chicago perceived him and perceived the office that he ran. This article was originally published on NBCNews.com COLUMBIA, S.C. (WSPA) While current models show a tropical depression building in the Atlantic ocean do not show the storm making landfall in South Carolina, state officials are still warning residents to be prepared for what the storm could bring. On Saturday, exactly one year from the day Hurricane Helene passed over the Carolinas and causing billions of dollars in damages, Gov. Henry McMaster warned residents not to be complacent ahead of the arrival of Tropical Depression 9L, which is expected to become Tropical Storm Imelda later this weekend. Pray and hope for the best and prepare for the worst, and the time to prepare is now, said McMaster at the start of a nearly half-hour briefing with state officials. We remember Helene was one year ago today and we remember it did not go exactly the way it was expected to go and it produced results and damages many people have not seen before. Tropical Depression 9L was located about 200 miles south-southeast of the central Bahamas on Friday afternoon with maximum sustained winds of 35 mph. Current models for the storm show it is expected to become a tropical storm by end of day Saturday, and begin moving toward the Florida coast over the next two days. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The trajectory of a second storm in the Atlantic, Hurricane Humberto, is expected to help minimize the impact of Tropical Disturbance 9 and help pull the storm away from the coast. The storm is expected to bring a threat of heavy rain early next week as it crosses over Georgia and through the Carolinas. Speaking at Saturdays briefing, a representative for the National Weather Service said the storms behavior is hard to predict due to the influence of Hurricane Humberto, a stronger storm system out over the Atlantic. We expect it to slow down or potentially stall and then turn east into the Atlantic and way from the US, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials are also watching for a chance the storm could make landfall in South Carolina. Even with those models showing a favorable outlook for the state, officials are preparing Ahead of the storms arrival, McMaster has declared a State of Emergency across South Carolina. Gov. McMaster declares State of Emergency ahead of potential tropical weather impacts The order activates the states emergency operations plan and allows the Emergency Management Division to coordinate with state agencies in preparation for potential requests for assistance from local officials. State officials have already begun staging equipment and personnel to prepare for the storm. The South Carolina Army and Air National Guard have staged 150 troops to operate high-water vehicles to respond to potential flooding, and an additional 81 high-water vehicles are ready to be deployed if needed. The state also has aviation and logistical support units ready to deploy. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Additionally, the South Carolina Department of Public Safety is planning to move the state highway patrol, transport police, department of natural resources and other agencies to 24-hour operations on Monday to assist with calls for service, wrecks, disabled vehicles and downed trees and power lines. At Saturdays briefing McMaster urged caution, particularly from drivers, away from areas of standing water. Drowning is among the top causes of deaths following a major storm, and it is not uncommon, McMaster said, for drivers to try to cross what appear to be shallow pools of water only to end up in much deeper trouble and drowning. We lose a lot of people to drowning. Dont drown, turn around, he said. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSPA 7NEWS. On the anniversary of Guineas 2009 stadium massacre, the quest for justice and accountability continues amid the daily realities of military rule and fresh tensions over a controversial referendum. Sixteen years after the Conakry stadium massacre, Guineans are reminded of one of the darkest chapters in their recent history. On 28 September 2009, security forces stormed a peaceful opposition rally at the capitals main stadium. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement By the time the violence subsided, at least 156 people had been killed and more than a hundred women had been subjected to brutal sexual violence, according to a UN investigation. For the survivors, the long road to justice has finally begun to show some results. Human rights activists want answers to Conakry stadium massacre Reparation for survivors This years anniversary comes just months after the Guinean government opened the first phase of reparations for victims. At a ceremony in May inside the Court of Appeal in Conakry where the long-awaited trial unfolded survivors wept as they were handed cheques in compensation from the state. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are gathered to put into execution the content of this decree and give the victims cheques corresponding to the amount fixed by the judicial decision, said Justice Minister Yaya Kairaba Kaba. For Asmaou Diallo, president of the Avipa victims association, the moment marked a rare glimpse of closure after years of waiting. Today, I can breathe a sigh of relief, she told RFI, recalling the years of doubt over whether the state would ever pay up. Since the ruling, more than 300 victims are to receive reparations, with funds drawn directly from the national budget after the convicted perpetrators were deemed unable to cover the damages themselves. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Outcry in Guinea as ex-military leader Camara pardoned by junta chief Camara's release condemned Former junta leader Moussa Dadis Camara who ruled the country between 2008 and 2009 was sentenced in July 2024 to 20 years in prison for crimes against humanity. Judges found him guilty on the basis of command responsibility and for his intention to repress the rally. But in March this year, Colonel Mamadi Doumbouya the current head of Guineas transitional military government announced Camaras release, citing health reasons. The pardon stunned victims families and drew sharp criticism from international observers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Thursday, UN human rights chief Volker Turk explicitly warned that international law forbids pardons for crimes as grave as those committed on 28 September. He also called on Conakrys rulers to free political detainees, end arbitrary arrests and lift restrictions on opposition parties and the press. The Guinean authorities must, above all, lift the unacceptable bans targeting political parties and the media, Turk insisted. Guinea votes on new constitution as junta leader eyes presidency That appeal resonates strongly in the current climate. This week, Guineas opposition denounced as a masquerade the 21 September referendum that paved the way for Colonel Doumbouyas potential candidacy in upcoming presidential elections. While the transitional government has hailed the vote as a step towards restoring constitutional order, civil society groups warn that freedoms remain tightly curtailed, with journalists and activists facing harassment or even disappearance. UNITED NATIONS (AP) Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates and Oman all nations in the thick of the unrest that has pervaded the Middle East confronted the crisis in the region at the annual U.N. gathering of world leaders, with Egypts top diplomat warning that the Mideast is at a point of implosion. All four countries on Saturday decried Israels ongoing pursuit of war in Gaza and the horrific impact on Palestinian civilians and they bemoaned the failure of the United Nations and the broader international community to achieve a ceasefire and end the bloodshed. The four ministers spoke a day after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu facing protesters, critics and growing global isolation over his Gaza policies told the General Assembly his country must finish the job against Hamas for its Oct. 7, 2023, surprise attack in southern Israel that killed about 1,200 people. Hamas also took 250 hostages. Israeli forces recently launched an offensive to take control of Gaza City. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Here's a country-by-country look at those four leaders' takes from the U.N. podium on the overall Mideast situation and Gaza in particular. Egypt Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty, whose country has been a key mediator in Gaza along with the United States and Qatar, sharply criticized the international community standing idly by as a spectator while international law is systematically violated in Gaza and elsewhere in the Middle East. Israels wanton, unjust war waged against defenseless civilians for a sin they did not commit is transpiring without accountability, and it has affected one country after another, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Abdelatty recalled former president Anwar Sadats historic visit to Israel in 1977, and Egypt becoming one of the first to anchor the pillar of peace in the region. But surveying the turmoiul in the Mideast today, he accused Israel of committing genocide in Gaza which it vehemently denies and blocking the Palestinians' fron establishing an independent state. Abdelatty said Israel cant be secure unless other countries in the region are secure, and the region cannot see stability without an independent state of Palestine. In the region, he pointed to civil war in Sudan, the need for elections in divided Libya, resolving Yemens crisis between the internationally recognized government and Houthi rebels who control the capital and most of the north, and ending repeated Israeli violations of Lebanese and Syrian territory. Saudi Arabia Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Saudi Arabias foreign minister, Prince Faisal bin Farhan, whose country hosts Russia-Ukraine-U.S. peace talks, said the suffering of Palestinians and unprecedented humanitarian crisis in Gaza make it imperative for the international community to end the war in Gaza and achieve peace through a two-state solution. A two-state solution to the nearly 80-year Israeli-Palestinian conflict is the only path that would guarantee the security of all countries in the region, he said. The failure of the international community to take firm actions to end the Israeli aggression and violation will only cause further instability and insecurity regionally and globally and will have grave consequences and will escalate war crimes and acts of genocide. Farhan said Saudi Arabia, along with Norway and the European Union, launched an international coalition to implement the two-state solution, and it co-sponsored Mondays high-level meeting with France that saw at least 10 countries officially recognize the state of Palestine, bringing the total to near 160 recognitions. Such recognition is an important step towards achieving the two-state solution and bolstering the path towards a just and lasting peace, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Farhan condemned Israels recent attack on Qatar. He also called for international measures to stop Israels actions, and to deter it from such criminal behavior that threatens regional security and stability. Oman Omani Foreign Minister Badr bin Hamad al-Busaidi, whose country has mediated U.S.-Iran talks, called on the international community to apply effective pressure to bring Israel to the negotiating table and to adopt measures limiting its ability to continue its killings, destruction, occupation and policies of starvation and blockade against the Palestinian people. He condemned Israeli aggression against Iran, Yemen, Syria and Lebanon and called for sanctions against Israel in response to its violation of international law and unlawful encroachment on the sovereignty of states. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We call for a global peaceful campaign to lift the blockade and undo the injustice imposed on the Palestinian people and to secure their freedom through the establishment of an independent and sovereign Palestinian state," al-Busaidi said. United Arab Emirates Calling it a pivotal moment in a world engulfed in turmoil and conflict, the United Arab Emirates deputy foreign minister Lana Nusseibeh said there is no justification for Hamas taking hostages or for Israel targeting tens of thousands of civilians or besieging them or starving them and forcibly displacing them. Israels unacceptable, expansionist ambitions including the threat of annexing the West Bank are also inexcusable, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nusseibeh urged all countries to recognize the state of Palestine as an investment in a better future for the region. The UAE has tried to bridge divides elsewhere in the conflict-torn world, she said, pointing to its role in the exchange of thousands of prisoners between Russia and Ukraine, hosting peace talks between Armenia and Azerbaijan, and helping to de-escalate tensions in south Asia and beyond. Our aim is not simply to manage conflicts, but to resolve them sustainably, Nusseibeh told the assembly. The urgent need for this approach is clear around the world, whether in the Gaza Strip, Ukraine, Sudan, Yemen, Libya or the Sahel. Many crises have been exacerbated by extremist ideologies, hate speech and incitement, which is why the UAE is promoting an agenda of tolerance, peace and security, she said. The UAE is also the largest donor of aid to Gaza, she said. ___ Edith M. Lederer has been covering international affairs for The Associated Press for more than a half centuryt. Moldovan President Maia Sandu urged citizens to vote in the parliamentary elections on Sept. 28, warning them that the country is "in danger" and the people must prevent "thieves and traitors" from selling the EU candidate state's future. "Moldova, our dear home, is in danger and needs the help of each of you," Sandu said after voting, as cited by Moldovan media outlet Jurnal TV. All eyes are on Chisinau today, where Moldova has opened parliamentary elections that could determine whether the small, landlocked nation stays the course toward EU membership or pivots back toward Moscow. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "In that worst-case scenario, we will have to postpone our European integration for many years," Sandu said, as cited by Jurnal TV. Sandu has repeatedly warned about what she called her country's "most consequential election." Moldova's pro-EU governing Party of Action and Solidarity (PAS) is facing a tense race against the pro-Russian Patriotic Bloc to secure the majority in the 101-seat chamber for the next four years. Russia, which controls the Moldovan region of Transnistria and keeps troops there, has sought to pull the EU-leaning Chisinau closer into its orbit. The EU has warned that Moldova is enduring "an unprecedented campaign of disinformation" from Russia ahead of the election. Media investigations have revealed an extensive Russian propaganda and interference campaign ahead of Moldova's elections. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On the eve of the high-stakes election, Moldova banned the pro-Kremlin Greater Moldova (Moldova Mare) Party from the upcoming parliamentary elections due to suspicions of illegal financing, officials said on Sept. 27. A day earlier, the country's Central Electoral Commission also suspended the Heart of Moldova Party, one of four factions in the Russia-friendly Patriotic Bloc that seeks to challenge the ruling pro-European Party of Action and Solidarity (PAS). The Central Electoral Commission decided to exclude both the Heart of Moldova and Greater Moldova parties from the vote after police, security, and intelligence officials uncovered evidence that the groups were using illegal financing, the commission said. Moldovan intelligence services reportedly also provided information on Greater Moldova's association with the Victory Bloc, a slate of pro-Russian political factions backed by exiled oligarch Ilan Shor. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Shor has allegedly used $8 billion in cryptocurrency to help Russia evade sanctions and meddle in Moldova's upcoming elections, blockchain firm Elliptic reported on Sept. 26, citing leaked documents from Shor's companies. Leading up to the election, President Volodymyr Zelensky, whose country received the candidacy status to join the EU one day together with Moldova, warned that "Europe cannot afford to lose Moldova." Read also: Analysis: Russian disinformation sets the stage for Transnistria provocations ahead of Moldovas elections Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Attempts to disrupt Moldova's parliamentary election, viewed as pivotal for the country's political future, were reported by local authorities on Sept. 28. Bomb threats were also reported at polling stations for the Moldovan diaspora in Belgium, Italy, Romania, Spain, and the U.S., Moldovas Foreign Ministry said on Sept. 28, in what officials described as "the Russian Federation's assault on the electoral process in the Republic of Moldova." "State institutions were prepared for this scenario, we have established clear procedures, and we are cooperating with our partners in other countries to ensure the electoral process is not affected. We urge all citizens (in the diaspora) to follow the recommendations of the authorities, rely on official information, and continue honest voting," Moldova's Foreign Ministry said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Moldovas Information Technology and Cyber Security Service also said that it had blocked a series of cyberattacks targeting the countrys election infrastructure. The targets of the cyberattacks included Moldova's Central Electoral Commission website, government cloud service systems and process automation systems, as well as some voting stations abroad, according to the Information Technology and Cyber Security Service. Among the reported incidents were distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks, including one orchestrated simultaneously from multiple countries, with over 16 million generated sessions designed to simulate real traffic and bypass protection systems. "All attacks were detected and neutralized in real time without affecting the availability or integrity of electoral services," Moldovas Information Technology and Cyber Security Service said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Moldovans, both at home and abroad, are heading to the polls in critical parliamentary elections on Sept. 28 that could determine whether the country continues to move toward its path of EU integration, as envisioned by President Maia Sandus party, or pivots back to Moscow. "Moldova, our beloved home, is in danger and needs the help of each of you. You can save it today with your vote tomorrow it might be too late," Sandu said after casting her vote on Sept. 28, urging Moldovan citizens to go out and vote. "Lets show the world that the Republic of Moldova is not only a small country with a big heart, but also a country of dignified people, people who do not sell their country. Lets not allow thieves and traitors to sell our future." On the eve of the election, Moldovan authorities barred the pro-Kremlin Greater Moldova (Moldova Mare) party from participating, citing suspicions of illegal financing, officials said on Sept. 27. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A day earlier, the countrys Central Electoral Commission had suspended the Heart of Moldova party, one of four factions in the Russia-aligned Patriotic Bloc, which had been positioning itself to challenge Sandu's ruling pro-European Party of Action and Solidarity (PAS). Citing documents it had seen, Bloomberg reported on Sept. 22 that Moscow has devised a plan to interfere in Moldovas parliamentary elections and hinder the countrys bid for EU membership. In a separate investigation published Sept. 21, the BBC said a covert, Russia-funded network was working to influence the outcome of the vote. Since the end of the Transnistrian War in 1992, Russia has exerted control over Moldovas Transnistrian region, maintaining a military presence there. Read also: Russia targets Moldovas future as voters head to the polls Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. MONCKS CORNER, S.C. (WCBD) The Moncks Corner Rural Fire Department announced Sunday the line-of-duty death of Deputy Chief Jimmy Townsend. Officials did not provide details about Townsends death; however, they said he died around 3 a.m. Sunday. Deputy Chief Townsend spent more than three decades in the fire service. Townsend began his career with the Moncks Corner Rural Fire Department in November 1990. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Throughout his career, he was a steadfast leader, mentor, and friend who stood as a cornerstone of the Berkeley County and South Carolina firefighting community. His passing leaves a void that can never truly be filled, said Colt Roy, assistant chief of public information for Central Berkeley Fire and EMS. Roy told counton2.com that he planned to release additional details about Townsends death on Monday. Memorial details are forthcoming. Count on 2 for updates. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCBD News 2. GRAND BLANC TOWNSHIP, Mich. (AP) An ex-Marine smashed a pickup into a Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints church in Michigan, opened fire and set the building ablaze during a crowded Sunday service and then was fatally shot by police. At least four people were killed and eight wounded, and authorities were searching the building ruins for more victims. The attack occurred about 10:25 a.m. while hundreds of people were in the building in Grand Blanc Township, outside Flint. The man got out of the pickup with two American flags raised in the truck bed and started shooting, Police Chief William Renye told reporters. The attacker apparently used gas to start the fire and also had explosive devices but it wasnt clear if he used them, said James Dier of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Authorities identified the shooter as Thomas Jacob Sanford, 40, of the neighboring small town of Burton. The FBI is leading the investigation and considered it an act of targeted violence, said Ruben Coleman, a special agent in charge for the bureau. Officers responding to a 911 call were at the church within 30 seconds, Renye said. After the suspect left the church, two officers pursued him and engaged in gunfire, killing him about eight minutes later, the chief said. People inside the church shielded children and moved them to safety during the attack, Renye said. Flames and smoke poured from the large church for hours before the blaze was extinguished. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Two bodies were found during a search of the debris, and Renye said more victims could be found as searchers made their way though the entire church. One of the wounded people was in critical condition Sunday evening and the seven others were stable. Renye said some people were unaccounted for, but he didnt have an exact number. Michigan State Police Lt. Kim Vetter said bomb threats were made at other churches in the area after officers shot and killed Sanford. No bombs were found and police were investigating the threats. The motive not yet clear Investigators were searching Sanfords residence but authorities did not say what they found or provide any additional details about him, including whether he was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, widely known as the Mormon church. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Sanford served in the Marines from June 2004 through June 2008, working as an automotive mechanic and vehicle recovery operator, according to military records obtained by The Detroit News. He was deployed to Iraq from August 2007 through March 2008 and had the rank of sergeant. It was the latest of many shooting attacks on houses of worship in the U.S. over the past 20 years, including one in August that killed two children during Mass at the Church of the Annunciation in Minneapolis. It also was the second mass shooting in the U.S. in less than 24 hours. On Saturday night, a man in a boat opened fire on a crowd in Southport, North Carolina, killing three and injuring five, President Donald Trump applauded the FBI for its response to the Michigan shooting in a social media post. Local authorities said the FBI was sending 100 agents to Grand Blanc Township, a community of roughly 40,000 people. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement PRAY for the victims, and their families. THIS EPIDEMIC OF VIOLENCE IN OUR COUNTRY MUST END, IMMEDIATELY! Trump wrote. The church building, circled by a parking lot and a large lawn, is near residential areas and a Jehovahs Witness church. Brad Schneemann, whose home is about 400 yards (365 meters) from the church, told The Associated Press that he and his daughter heard two rounds of four to five shots around 10:30 a.m. Then, we really didnt hear anything for a while" before they left their home to see what was happening. Tight-knit church community Timothy Jones, 48, said his family is part of another Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints congregation, or ward, about 15 minutes away, but that his children were at the Grand Blanc Township ward Saturday night for a youth fall festival. He and his family moved to Flint two years ago in large part because of how strong the faith's community is in the area, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As people in his congregation got word of the shooting from texts and phone calls during their Sunday service, his ward went into lockdown and police came as a precaution, he said. His children were "frantically, just trying to get word that people were OK." Sundays are supposed to be a time of peace and a time of reflection and worship, Jones said. Yet in the wake of violence at other houses of worship, a shooting feels inevitable, and all the more tragic because of that, he added. The shooting occurred the morning after Russell M. Nelson, the oldest-ever president of the Utah-based faith, died at 101. The next president is expected to be Dallin H. Oaks, per church protocol. The church is in communication with local law enforcement as the investigation continues and as we receive updates on the condition of those affected, spokesperson Doug Anderson said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Places of worship are meant to be sanctuaries of peacemaking, prayer and connection. We pray for peace and healing for all involved. The impact of the shooting spread throughout the area When striking nurses at nearby Henry Ford Genesys Hospital heard about the shooting, some left the picket line and ran the short distance to the church to help first responders, Teamsters Local 332 President Dan Glass said. Human lives matter more than our labor dispute, Glass said. Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said in a statement that her heart was breaking for the community. Violence anywhere, especially in a place of worship, is unacceptable, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The impact spread quickly to neighboring communities, including the small city that shares a name with the township. Although we are two separate governmental units, we are a very cohesive community, said city of Grand Blanc Mayor John Creasey. This sort of thing is painful for our entire community. About 100 people gathered for a prayer service Sunday evening at The River Church in Grand Blanc, a nondenominational Christian church about 5 miles (8 kilometers) from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Many bowed their heads, some cried softly. A few spoke their prayers aloud, asking for healing for the victims, the victims families and first responders. We live in days that are difficult and troubled, days that are weary and tiring, said Pastor Chuck Lindsey, leading the congregation in prayer. Were exhausted by the evil, were exhausted by these things. But Lord, you are our refuge. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement ___ This story has been updated to correct the name of the hospital to Henry Ford Genesys Hospital, not Henry Ford Hospital. ___ Associated Press reporters Safiyah Riddle in Montgomery, Alabama; Sophia Tareen in Chicago; and Christopher Weber in Los Angeles contributed to this report. NATO fighter jets were scrambled and air defense units put on alert in the early hours of Sunday in response to a major Russian drone and missile strike on Ukraine, the Polish Operational Command said in posts to X. "Due to the activity of the Russian Federation's long-range aviation, which is carrying out strikes on the territory of Ukraine, Polish and allied aviation has begun operating in our airspace," the command said in a statement. "On-duty fighter pairs have been scrambled, and ground-based air defense systems as well as radar reconnaissance have reached a state of highest readiness," the post added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "These actions are of a preventive nature and are aimed at securing the airspace and protecting citizens, especially in areas adjacent to the threatened regions," it said. Thomas Peter/Reuters - PHOTO: Emergency workers operate at an impact site in a residential neighbourhood after Russian drone and missile attacks in Kyiv, Ukraine, on Sept. 28, 2025. Zelenskyy praises 'well-informed' Trump after president's Russia war pivot Dutch F-35 stealth fighters and a German Patriot surface-to-air missile system were among the forces put on alert, the command added. Airspace over Lublin and Rzeszow near the Ukrainian border was also briefly closed. The alert ended after around three-and-a-half hours with no reported violations of Polish airspace, the command said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement There have been no reported violations of Polish airspace by long-range Russian drones since dozens crossed into the country during strikes on Ukraine on Sept. 10, prompting Polish and allied jets to shoot down several. Kyiv was the focus of the overnight Russian strikes. Zaporizhzhia, Khmelnytskyi, Sumy and Odesa were also attacked, President Voloydmyr Zelenskyy said in a post to Telegram. The barrage lasted for more than 12 hours, the president said. Ukraine's air force said Russia launched 593 drones and 50 missiles of various types, making the overnight barrage the largest combined strike on Ukraine since Sept. 7. Gleb Garanich/Reuters - PHOTO: Smoke rises over Kyiv, Ukraine, after Russian drone and missile strikes on Sept. 28, 2025. Mystery drones over Denmark are 'hybrid attack,' defense minister says Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Defenders downed or suppressed 566 drones and 45 missiles, the air force said. Five missiles and 31 drones impacted across 16 locations, the force said. At least four people -- among them a 12-year-old girl -- were killed in the capital, according to a post by head of the Kyiv City Military Administration Timur Tkachenko to Telegram. At least 14 people were also injured in Kyiv, local officials said. "As of now, there are over 15 locations with damage," Tkachenko said. "Among them are drone strikes on multi-story residential buildings." Tkachenko reported damage in at least five city districts. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Mayor Vitali Klitschko said a five-floor apartment building in the Solomyanskyi district was partially destroyed and caught fire. Strikes also hit a state medical facility, warehouses, private homes, cars and a childrens educational center, officials said. Gleb Garanich/Reuters - PHOTO: Russian missile and drone strike in Kyiv As Poland downs drones amid Russia strike, NATO braces for new era on eastern front At least 31 people -- among them three children -- were injured by Russian strikes on the southern city of Zaporizhzhia, according to local Gov. Ivan Fedorov. A high-rise apartment building and several other structures were hit and set ablaze in the city, Fedorov said. The city -- home to more than 710,000 people before Russia's full-scale invasion -- is now only around 16 miles from the front line and subject to continuous Russian attacks. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ukraine's Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko said in a post to Telegram that at least 70 people were injured by strikes across the country. Zelenskyy noted that the "cowardly" attack took place at the end of a week of high-level meetings and speeches at the United Nations General Assembly in New York. "This is exactly how Russia declares its real position," Zelenskyy said. "Moscow wants to continue fighting and killing and deserves only the harshest pressure from the world." Zelenskyy again called for more international measures to choke Russia's energy export industry. "We count on a strong response from the U.S., Europe, the G7 and the G20," he wrote. Thomas Peter/Reuters - PHOTO: People take shelter in a metro station during a Russian drone attack on Kyiv, Ukraine, on Sept. 28, 2025. Andriy Kovalenko -- the head of the Counter-Disinformation Center operating as part of Ukraine's National Security and Defense Council -- said in a post to Telegram that it was a "difficult night for many cities." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "The Russians are also under attack," Kovalenko wrote. "And the level of these attacks will only increase." Russia's Defense Ministry said its forces shot down at least 41 Ukrainian drones overnight. Rosaviatsiya, Russia's federal air transport agency, reported temporary flight restrictions at multiple airports, including at the Zhukovsky International Airport in Moscow. Restrictions were also imposed at airports in Volgograd, Kaluga, Penza, Samara, Pskov and Yaroslavl. ABC News' Nataliya Kushnir, Fidel Pavlenko, Max Uzol, Nataliia Popova and Dada Jovanovic contributed to this report. What to know about 'Eastern Sentry,' NATO's response to Russian drones Ukraine has significantly improved its ability to strike military targets deep inside Russia, German Major General Maik Keller told dpa, highlighting advances in personnel, equipment and training. "The Ukrainians are getting better at reaching militarily relevant targets in Russia's depth. This is a question of capability, and capability means personnel, material and training," he said. Keller serves as deputy commander of the NATO Security Assistance and Training for Ukraine (NSATU), which coordinates alliance support from its base at the Lucius D Clay Barracks in Wiesbaden, Germany. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Experts from 30 nations, including non-NATO partners Australia and New Zealand as well as Ukraine itself, work in Wiesbaden to ensure Kiev's needs for weapons, ammunition, spare parts and equipment are met. The mission also advises Ukraine and aligns its forces with NATO standards though Keller stressed the learning goes both ways. According to the NATO general, drones are a prime example of how Ukraine has advanced warfare. Few can teach the Ukrainians much in this field, he noted, pointing to combat, logistics and even medical evacuation drones, as well as naval systems. The German military and NATO allies were learning from these innovations in technology, operations, and doctrine, he added. "Our core mission is to coordinate support for Ukraine," Keller said. "But we would be foolish not to use this knowledge to improve ourselves and spare our own soldiers from repeating Ukraines hard lessons." Keller's remarks come as Berlin pledged 300 million ($351 million) to help Ukraine produce thousands of long-range drones. Kiev has recently stepped up its strikes, targeting Russian oil refineries and infrastructure critical for diesel and petrol production. By Andrius Sytas RIGA (Reuters) -NATO said on Saturday it is upgrading its mission in the Baltic Sea with an air-defence frigate and other assets in response to drone incursions in Denmark. Unidentified drones were observed near military installations in Denmark overnight, the Armed Forces said on Saturday, following several drone incursions near airports and critical infrastructure this week. Copenhagen Airport, the Nordic region's busiest, closed for several hours late on Monday as several large drones were seen in its airspace. Five smaller Danish airports, both civilian and military, were also shut temporarily in the following days. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In response, NATO will "conduct even more enhanced vigilance with new multi-domain assets in the Baltic Sea region", it said in a statement emailed to Reuters. The alliance said the new assets included "intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance platforms and at least one air-defence frigate". A NATO spokesperson said they would not provide details on which countries were contributing the extra assets. The new assets will enhance NATO's "Baltic Sentry" mission, launched in January in response to a string of incidents in which power cables, telecom links and gas pipelines on the Baltic Sea bottom have been damaged. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement NATO countries have deployed frigates, patrol aircraft and naval drones as part of the mission, to help protect critical infrastructure. The alliance also launched the "Eastern Sentry" mission this month, to bolster the defence of Europe's eastern flank in response to Russian drone incursions into Polish airspace. It warned Russia on Tuesday that it would use "all necessary military and non-military tools" to defend itself after Estonia said on Friday that three Russian MiG-31 fighter jets violated its airspace for 12 minutes before NATO Italian fighter jets escorted them out. Russia has disputed that Russian jets violated Estonia's airspace and said that its drones had not planned to hit targets in Poland. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement German Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt said on Saturday that the threat from drones was "high" and that the country would take measures to defend itself. Russia's Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov warned NATO and the European Union on Saturday that "any aggression against my country will be met with a decisive response". (Reporting by Andrius Sytas and Andrew Gray; Editing by Alison Williams) Netanyahu and Trump are scheduled to meet at the White House on Monday. US President Donald Trumps 21-point Gaza ceasefire plan has not been finalized yet, but Israel is working with Trumps staff to advance the plan, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated in an interview with FOX News on Sunday. We are currently working with President Trumps team on the 21-point agreement. We hope to successfully advance the deal, he said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Netanyahu and Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer met again on Sunday evening with US envoy Steve Witkoff and the presidents son-in-law, Jared Kushner, to discuss Trumps 21-point plan. Much of the discussion revolves around wording the plan, a source familiar with the details told The Jerusalem Post. One of the challenges is how to state, on the one hand, that the Palestinian Authority will not be involved in governing Gaza as Israel demands while on the other hand, saying that it will be involved as the Arab states are demanding." AN IDF convoy maneuvers on the Israeli side of the Gaza border last week. I would suggest that this is our second war of independence, a test of our resolve to project and protect our sovereignty, says the writer. (credit: AMIR COHEN/REUTERS) An Israeli official said the goal is to arrive at Mondays meeting between Netanyahu and Trump at the White House with as few gaps as possible between Washington and Jerusalem. Netanyahu tells Fox News that he would allow Hamas to leave Gaza for hostages Meanwhile, an Egyptian delegation is expected to travel to Qatar on Monday for meetings with senior Hamas officials. After the Netanyahu-Trump meeting, the focus is expected to shift back to Hamas leaders in Doha, another source familiar with the details explained. Hamas has been shown several drafts of the presidents 21-point plan but has not yet seen the final document. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Sunday, an Israeli official told the Post that at this stage it is difficult to see Hamas agreeing to release all the hostages within the first week or to completely disarm. The two leaders are scheduled to meet at the White House on Monday. During the Fox interview, Netanyahu confirmed that Israel would be willing to allow Hamas leaders to leave Gaza in exchange for the release of the remaining 48 hostages and an end to the war. We want to free the hostages, and for Gaza to be demilitarized, he said. If the plan were to be agreed upon, the war would be ended in 48 hours, with all 48 hostages released, and the IDF would withdraw. Other points in the 21-point plan include the immediate provision of aid and Israels promise not to strike Qatar again. Regarding the last clause, the prime minister said he would be discussing it with the Trump administration but declined to confirm whether Israel would refrain from future Qatar strikes. When asked whether he regretted the IAF strikes on Qatar, given the regional implications, Netanyahu replied, I think the US and any self-respecting country doesnt give a pass to terrorists. We werent attacking Qatar any more than the US was attacking Pakistan when it took out [Osama] bin Laden. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Netanyahu also dismissed claims that the strikes on Qatar would negatively impact the Abraham Accords, especially with the UAE. He called the Accords brokered by him and President Trump during his first term resilient. The Israeli leader also doubled down on his promise not to let Iran weaponize its uranium. He claimed that before the strikes on Irans nuclear facilities in June, Israel had been aware that it would not get all 450 kg. of enriched uranium but that it wanted to prevent Iran from making more and from weaponizing it. He also claimed Israel is aware of the location of Irans remaining nuclear sites. Fox also probed Netanyahu on the humanitarian situation in Gaza and whether he takes responsibility for the food and supply scarcity in the enclave. The responsibility lies at the feet of Hamas, he replied. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Netanyahu denied that Israel carried out or is carrying out mass starvation in Gaza, saying, There was never a starvation policy in Gaza, and there never will be. There is no starvation, he said, but admitted that there is deprivation. He went on to give the example of the myriad pictures of terrorists with their shirts off during arrest by Israeli forces, saying, You will not see a single emaciated person. The prime minister echoed previous Israeli statistics of a 2:1 combatant-to-civilian ratio in terms of death toll, saying, We are taking a lot of care to not hurt civilians. Days after saying he was close to forging a deal to end the war in Gaza, Trump said on Sunday that there is a real chance for greatness in the Middle East, without providing specific details. All are on board for something special, for the first time ever. We will get it done, he said in a Truth Social post. In a separate interview with FOX, Vice President JD Vance noted that he was optimistic about a ceasefire in Gaza. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hamass armed terror wing said on Sunday that it lost contact with two hostages during Israeli military operations in two Gaza City neighborhoods. In a statement, the al-Qassam Brigades said it had demanded that Israel halt air sorties for 24 hours, starting at 6 p.m., in a part of Gaza City to remove the hostages from danger. Reuters contributed to this report. The North American Aerospace Defense Command once again quickly launched fighter jets to intercept Russian planes after four were spotted over the waters near Alaska. In a statement, NORAD said that two Russian Tu-95 bombers and a pair of Su-35 fighter jets were spotted inside the Alaskan Air Defense Identification Zone on Wednesday. NORAD did not disclose details on it until the next day. NORAD said that four F-16 fighter jets, four KC-135 refueling tankers and an E-3 Sentry airborne warning and control system (or AWACS) plane were quickly launched to intercept the four Russian planes. Last month, in the face of multiple Russian incursions into the ADIZ, NORAD scrambled a pair of F-16s in each instance. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Alaskan Air Defense Identification Zone is part of international airspace, not American or Canadian territory. However NORAD jointly operated by the two countries, requires that aircraft in the zone identify themselves as a security measure. The Alaskan ADIZ extends as far as 150 miles out from the Alaskan coast. According to NORAD the four Russian aircraft stayed in international airspace and the scrambled planes tracked them during their flight. NORAD operates extensive radar and tracking systems to monitor aircraft around North America. Wednesdays incident is the first time in a month that Russian planes entered the ADIZ. In late August NORAD reported three separate incursions into the ADIZ by Russian military planes. The command noted, as it has in the past, that Russian activity in the Alaskan ADIZ occurs regularly and is not seen as a threat. Top Stories This Week News Longest-serving active duty Marine to retire after 42 years By Drew F. Lawrence News Air Force to roll out major boot camp changes early next month By Jeff Schogol News The elusive ship built to carry US special operators is in the Caribbean By Jeff Schogol, By Patty Nieberg However, this weeks interdiction comes as Russian planes have repeatedly entered NATO airspace over Europe in September. Several Baltic nations reported Russian aircraft crossing into their skies. In a statement on Sept. 23, NATOs North Atlantic Council said that NATO and Allies will employ, in accordance with international law, all necessary military and non-military tools to defend ourselves and deter all threats from all directions. We will continue to respond in the manner, timing, and domain of our choosing. The latest interdiction happened on Aug. 24, a month after the last known incident. During August, NORAD scrambled jets three times in response to the same number of Russian incursions into the Alaskan ADIZ. Those incidents happened while the United States was carrying out major military exercises in Alaska and shortly after Russian President Vladimir Putin visited the state for a diplomatic summit. Gov. Tina Kotek stands with Portland leaders and Portland Police Chief Bob Day at a press conference in Portland, Oregon on Saturday, Sept. 27, 2025. Kotek said she told President Donald Trump and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem in a phone call that federal troops are not needed to police Portland following Trump's social media post that he'd intervene in the "war ravaged" city. (Photo by Alex Baumhardt/Oregon Capital Chronicle) Oregon leaders say President Donald Trump did not consult with state and local officials or law enforcement agencies before announcing Saturday that he would deploy troops to what he described as the war ravaged city of Portland. Portlands doing just fine, and I made that very clear to the president this morning, Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek said at an afternoon press conference in downtown Portland along the Willamette River. Our city is a far cry from the war ravaged community that he has posted about on social media and I conveyed that directly to him. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement As of Saturday afternoon, it appears a deployment of federal officers to the area has so far been limited to a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility south of downtown Portland, where armored trucks were seen Friday evening going in and out of the building. The Democratic governor said she reached out to Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem and Trump on Saturday morning, after she learned of the potential deployment from Trumps Truth Social post. She said she told Noem and Trump, in brief and separate calls, that any federal military deployment to police the city is not welcome. Kotek was joined by several local and state leaders, including Portland Mayor Keith Wilson, two Portland-area U.S. members of Congress, Reps. Andrea Salinas and Suzanne Bonamici, both Democrats, and Portland Police Chief Bob Day. Day said the federal agents do not have to share their operational plans with local law enforcement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement I do know that there are more federal law enforcement officers here designated to provide security for the buildings and, in their mind, try and provide a higher level of security for their staff and employees, Day said. He reiterated that the Portland Police Bureau, in a sanctuary county in a sanctuary state, does not engage in immigration enforcement. There have been ongoing protests outside of the Portland ICE field office since June, and despite them being mostly nonviolent, the U.S. Attorneys Office has brought federal charges against 26 protestors for crimes including arson, assaulting a police officer and resisting arrest. It was a quiet morning on Saturday, Sept. 27, 2025 at the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility south of downtown Portland. (Photo by Alex Baumhardt/Oregon Capital Chronicle) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trump in his social media post did not specify what legal justification he had to deploy troops to Oregon, what military branch would be used or other key details. The troops would be used to defend U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement facilities from domestic terrorists, he said. A 19th-century law, the Posse Comitatus Act, generally forbids military members from conducting domestic law enforcement. Kotek said she is coordinating with state Attorney General Dan Rayfield to see if any legal response is necessary. We will be prepared to respond if we have to, Kotek said about a potential lawsuit against the federal government. Kotek said she has not heard from any other state governors about their National Guard troops being called upon by Trump to be deployed to Oregon. Kotek, as head of the Oregon National Guard, has said repeatedly she would not deploy Oregon troops. She said she has been in touch with Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker and California Gov. Gavin Newsom to learn from their experiences with Trumps federal troop deployments. The White House shelved plans to send the guard to Chicago after Pritzker and Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson made clear they would not cooperate, and Trumps advisors warned it would draw legal challenges. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Oregon House minority speaker Christine Drazan, R-Canby, said in an email statement that she supports the federal military deployment. The ICE facility in Portland has been subject to months of dangerously chaotic protests that have put residents and federal agents in harms way. The governors assertion that there is no national security threat and the mayors assertion that everything is fine is tone-deaf, she said. Kotek said the federal intervention is counter-productive and more likely to incite than quell any violence. Renewed calls for protest at the facility at 4 p.m. Sunday were circulating on social media Saturday. Any federal takeover with military troops in our state is a threat to communities across Oregon. It violates our right to govern ourselves. It interferes with local law enforcements ability to fulfill their mission, and frankly, it drains taxpayer resources that could be better spent elsewhere, Kotek said. Again, I communicated that to the president directly: Oregon is our home. It is not a military target. Any deployment would be an abuse of power and a misuse of federal troops. SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX SOUTHPORT, N.C. (WNCN) Multiple law enforcement agencies at the North Carolina coast are continuing a mass shooting investigation and have a suspect in custody after gunfire from a boater killed people and injured others Saturday night in Brunswick County. According to the Town of Southport, officers were called around 9:30 p.m. to a shooting on the waterfront at the American Fish Company on Yacht Basin Drive. Police found several people injured at the scene with reports of eight wounded corrected Sunday to five injured. NEW INFO: Devastating: Officials detail Southport waterfront shooting that killed 3, injured 5 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A police statement early Sunday morning said that prior to officers arrival, a boat with a single occupant was traveling on the Cape Fear River before stopping outside the restaurant. Officials said the person in the boat opened fire, killing three people. The boat then fled the area, towards the Intracoastal Waterway in the direction of Oak Island, officials said. Emergency crews in Southport after a gunman on a boat fired into a restaurant, killing people and injuring others on Sept. 27, 2025. WSFX/NNS via CBS Newspath Officials said that shortly after 10 p.m., the U.S. Coast Guard observed a man who matched the shooters description, loading their boat on 55th Street in Oak Island. The Coast Guard detained the suspect, turning him over to the Oak Island Police Department. NEW INFO: Devastating: Officials detail Southport waterfront shooting that killed 3, injured 8 Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation said Sunday that 40-year-old Nigel Max Edge has been charged with three counts of first-degree murder, five counts of attempted first-degree murder and five counts of assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill, inflicting serious injuries. Nigel Max Edge (Photo Courtesy of NCSBI) In their statement ahead of the district attorneys press conference at 11 a.m. Sunday, NCSBI said the scene is still being actively investigated by their officials and the Southport Police Department. Please remain clear of the area, officials said. CRIME TRACKER Sign up for CBS 17s newsletter with the latest in local crime Town officials issued alerts to the public via social media Saturday night about the active shooter. Emergency crews in Southport after a gunman on a boat fired into a restaurant, killing people and injuring others on Sept. 27, 2025. WSFX/NNS via CBS Newspath Officers and Deputies from multiple agencies are in place to help ensure additional security for the greater area, officials said. This investigation is still in an immediate response stage; however, further updates on suspect identity and charges will be provided directly by the City of Southport as they become available. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement NCSBI officials also urged that no threat is ongoing at this time. We believe this was the act of one person, and the threat has been stopped, officials said. Emergency crews in Southport after a gunman on a boat fired into a restaurant, killing people and injuring others on Sept. 27, 2025. WSFX/NNS via CBS Newspath The Southport Yacht Basin borders an area of the town along the Intracoastal Waterway with several bars and restaurants, including American Fish Company. The Brunswick County Sheriffs Office released a short statement Saturday night on social media about the matter. The Brunswick County Sheriffs Office is assisting the City of Southport Police Department, along with multiple law enforcement agencies throughout the county, the sheriffs office said. Please keep all those affected, as well as our first responders, in your thoughts and prayers. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Southport is located along the Cape Fear River, across from Fort Fisher and about 20 miles southwest of Wilmington. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to CBS17.com. NEED TO KNOW Russell M. Nelson, the President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, has died at age 101 He was the oldest-ever president of the church after being appointed to lead in January 2018 Nelson is survived by his wife, Wendy Watson, eight of his 10 children, 57 grandchildren and over 167 great-grandchildren Russell M. Nelson, the President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, has died. He was 101. Nelson died at his home in Salt Lake City around 10 p.m. local time on Saturday, Sept. 27, according to a statement from the church. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The religious leader was the oldest-ever president of the church. He became an Apostle in April 1984 and was appointed to lead on Jan. 14, 2018. Nelson is survived by his wife, Wendy Watson and eight of his 10 children, as well as 57 grandchildren and 167 great-grandchildren. Paul Hennessy/NurPhoto via Getty Russell M. Nelson at a devotional in June 2019. Russell M. Nelson at a devotional in June 2019. Nelson worked as a heart surgeon prior to his time with the church. He performed the first open-heart surgery in Utah in 1955, and he served as president of the Society for Vascular Surgery. During his time with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the prophet was adamant that people should refer to the institution by its full name, rather than shortened forms, such as "Mormon Church." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was also known for his relationship with the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), which saw him speaking at the organizations 2019 annual convention. Many changes were made to the church under Nelson's leadership, including allowing children of LGBTQ+ parents to be baptized, plus the introduction of a global youth program. In introducing the new youth program, the church severed ties with the Boy Scouts of America after nearly a century, according to the Associated Press. The move, done in 2019, came after the organization allowed LGBTQ+ members and volunteers to join. During his presidency, the church modified its policy to prohibit transgender people from being baptized, working with children or serving as priests or teachers, per the AP. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The policy also stated that individuals who transitioned could not stay at youth camps overnight and were only allowed to use single-occupancy restrooms within church grounds. George Frey/Getty Russell M. Nelson and his wife Wendy at the 189th Annual General conference in the Conference Center on April 6, 2019 in Salt Lake City. Russell M. Nelson and his wife Wendy at the 189th Annual General conference in the Conference Center on April 6, 2019 in Salt Lake City. Nelson wrote an impassioned article for Time in September in recognition of his 101st birthday. "Imagine how different our world could be if more of us were peacemakers building bridges of understanding rather than walls of prejudice especially with those who may see the world differently than we do," he wrote. "I have seen bitter divisions soften when neighbors chose to listen to one another with respect rather than suspicion. Even small acts like reaching out across lines of faith, culture, or politicscan open doors to healing," Nelson continued. Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. Utah governor Spencer J. Cox paid tribute to the late leader on X, writing, "Today we mourn the passing of President Russell M. Nelson a prophet of God, a gentle leader, and a voice for peacemaking." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "He built bridges across faith traditions and cultures, serving Gods children throughout the world. Abby and I will forever treasure our moments with him," Cox continued. Nelsons successor is not expected to be formally chosen until after his funeral, according to the church. Read the original article on People By Pavel Polityuk and Mike Collett-White KYIV (Reuters) -Russia launched hundreds of drones and missiles at Kyiv and other parts of Ukraine early on Sunday, killing at least four people and injuring dozens, in one of the most sustained attacks on the capital since the full-scale war began. Neighbouring Poland closed its airspace near two southeastern cities and its air force scrambled jets in response until the danger had passed. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ukraine's military said that Russia launched 595 drones and 48 missiles overnight and its air defences shot down 568 drones and 43 missiles. It noted that the main target of the strike was the capital Kyiv. President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said the attack, which lasted more than 12 hours, killed four people, including a child, with two of the deaths occurring at a Kyiv cardiology clinic. He said 80 people were injured in the strikes and factories, residential buildings and energy-generating sites were damaged. Russia's defence ministry said on Sunday it had carried out a "massive" attack on Ukraine using long-range air- and sea-based weapons and drones to target military infrastructure, including airfields. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Moscow has denied targeting civilians in its war against Ukraine, although thousands have been killed and residential areas extensively damaged by its attacks. ZELENSKIY URGES INTERNATIONAL PARTNERS TO ACT Zelenskiy again urged the international community to act decisively to cut off Russia's energy revenues that fund its invasion. Ukraine has so far failed to convince U.S. President Donald Trump to impose punitive sanctions on Moscow. "The time for decisive action is long overdue, and we count on a strong response from the United States, Europe, the G7, and the G20," he said on the Telegram messaging app. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Speaking in his nightly video address, Zelenskiy said that while the U.N. was holding General Assembly sessions, Russia had "literally used every day, every hour, to strike at Ukraine. Vile strikes." Zelenskiy said it was important that further sanctions on Russia to be adopted by Europe target Russia's energy resources, particularly its tanker fleet. He described the overnight attack on the southeastern city of Zaporizhzhia as "extraordinarily fierce" with nearly 40 injured. Kyiv awoke to loud explosions, drones flying overhead and air defences booming. Smoke from one of the strike sites drifted across the morning sky as the air raid alert ended at 9:13 a.m. (0613 GMT), nearly seven hours after it began. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Reuters journalists visited an area in the suburbs of Kyiv, where rows of newly built homes were almost totally destroyed, and parked cars flattened by falling debris. Residents sifted through the wreckage of an apartment block after their windows were blown in by the force of a blast. Some people hurried to metro stations underground, from where they followed events on their mobile phones. UKRAINE'S DEFENCES STRETCHED BY LARGE-SCALE ATTACKS Attacks on such a scale have stretched Ukraine's limited air defences throughout 2025. Zelenskiy said on Saturday an additional Patriot missile system from Israel had been deployed and he expected two more to arrive this autumn. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He and other officials have asked international partners for more to protect Ukraine's skies, but air defence systems are limited in availability and other nations are keen to bolster their defences amid perceived threats from Russia. (Reporting by Nia Williams) Members of Russia's business elite are flying in Canadian-made luxury planes that were imported after sanctions targeting the country's aviation sector came into place, CBC's visual investigations unit has found. Russian import records obtained by CBC News show 34 business jets and commercial aircraft built in Canada and sold on the secondary market have ended up in Russia since it invaded Ukraine in February 2022. Those records, as well as flight data, aviation industry documents and leaked border-crossing information, reveal that sanctioned oligarch Igor Kesaev imported a Bombardier business jet in July 2023. Another jet arrived in March 2024 via a company majority-owned by another oligarch, Sergey Shishkarev, an ally of Russian President Vladimir Putin. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Other jets were imported by Russian airlines that cater to charter flights. Many Western observers say these aircraft end up there through loopholes that allow importers to evade sanctions by shipping the planes through countries friendly to Russia, such as Oman and Kyrgyzstan. Russian billionaire Igor Kesaev delivers a speech in Moscow on Nov. 1, 2012. (Sergei Karpukhin/Reuters) "It's quite clear that Russia has been able to work around some of these sanctions in the classic black market model, but with 21st-century sophistication," said Fen Hampson, a professor of international affairs at Carleton University in Ottawa. "They are buying parts, even entire aircraft jets, through middlemen in countries that don't honour Western sanctions." Hampson described it as "big business," adding that "not a whole lot" has been done to slow down or stop these transactions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kesaev's lawyer, Roeland Moeyersons from the Belgium-based EU-Sanctions law firm, wrote in an email: "Mr. Kesaev declines to comment on press articles. I trust you understand." CBC reached out to Shishkarev's Delo Group but did not receive a response. Russian billionaire Sergey Shishkarev is a majority-owner of Delo another company that imported a Canadian-made jet after sanctions. (Shishkarev.ru) Bombardier declined to comment on specific aircraft because they were sold on the secondary market without the company's involvement and said it complied with sanctions. Immediately after Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022, international sanctions were placed on the export of aircraft and parts into the country by the EU , U.S . and Canada . Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Russia's air industry, a majority of which is made up of Western aircraft , has been severely affected by sanctions, but more than $1 billion worth of aircraft and parts have still reportedly been imported into the country. In February, the U.S. Department of Justice arrested three people for allegedly operating a scheme to illegally export aircraft parts and components from the U.S. to Russia. Two months earlier, a dual U.S.-Russian citizen was indicted for allegedly attempting to export aircraft through Armenia to Russia. Australia to Moscow, via Oman According to records shared with CBC News by U.S. trade data company Import Genius, a Bombardier Global Express business jet was imported into Russia by Delo Group, a major Russian trade and logistics company that is majority-owned by Shishkarev, a former politician and billionaire who has been praised by Putin . A screenshot from a video shows a conversation between, among others, Shishkarev, lower left, and Russian President Vladimir Putin speaking about subsidizing the railway industry during in 2020. (Delo Group/YouTube) On Feb. 8, 2024, according to flight records, the plane flew from Perth, Australia, to Oman before switching to Russian registration and flying to Moscow. The plane was imported on March 30, 2024, from Oman by Delo Group. A Bombardier Global 6000 jet flew from Australia to Oman to Moscow in early 2024. (Flightway Aviation) Oman has in recent years become a hot spot for ship-to-ship transfers of Russian oil heading for India, and part of a network of transhipping countries including Turkey, Belarus and Armenia that re-export goods to Russia after importation. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "We have to be honest and acknowledge that the Russian government has found a number of willing partners in Western countries as well as in other countries in the same region as Russia that have helped them to evade sanctions," said Matthew Light, an associate professor of criminology at the University of Toronto. According to Swiss-based CH-Aviation, an aviation industry intelligence platform, the Delo plane was owned by the Bank of Utah in a trustee arrangement. The bank deregistered the plane from the U.S. on Feb. 9, 2024, and said it was being exported to Oman. The Bank of Utah did not respond to a request for comment, but says in its FAQ for aircraft owner trusts that it "does not do business with sanctioned entities." Oligarch who supplied Putin's army flies Canadian The records reviewed by CBC's visual investigations unit showed that some aircraft imported into Russia were by companies that focus on luxury private charters for the country's elite. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Of the dozens of trade records reviewed by CBC, only one import to Russia had an individual's name directly attached: Igor Albertovich Kesaev for a black Bombardier business jet. Kesaev is a Russian oligarch who is worth $4.5 billion US, according to Forbes. He is the owner and chairman of Mercury Group, which owns Megapolis Group, the leading tobacco distributor in Russia. He was also the main shareholder of a company invested in the Degtyarev weapons factory, which supplies the Russian armed forces. He also has links to Russia's security forces via his Monolith Foundation, which provides financial assistance to retired personnel and is staffed by former security officers. A jet imported by Kesaev was last seen flying from Italy to Moscow days before sanctions took place. (n94504/Planespotters) Kesaev was sanctioned by the European Union in 2022 because his business activities provided "a substantial source of revenue for the government of the Russian Federation, which is responsible for the annexation of Crimea and the destabilization of Ukraine," according to the EU . He's also been sanctioned by the U.S. and Canada. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The jet was imported on July 10, 2023, according to records. Records from Import Genius show Canadian planes imported to Russia from 2022 to April 2024. (Import Genius) "Russian elites are still travelling on their private jets," said Hampson. "Sanctions at the best of times in a world of nation states are a bit like a sieve. And the Russian oligarchs obviously, as long as they're in favour with Vladimir Putin and his regime, they can act with impunity." Shadowy network Aviation records provided by CH-Aviation, along with plane registration records obtained by CBC News, show that the plane imported by Kesaev was manufactured by Bombardier in Toronto in 2009 before being sold to Global Air Services Limited in 2010 for export to Bermuda. Registration information shows origin information for a Bombardier plane before it was exported to Bermuda in 2010. (King Aircraft Title, Inc.) According to documents provided to CBC by the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ), one of Bermuda-based Global Air Services Limited's directors at the time was Christodoulos G. Vassiliades, a Cypriot lawyer under sanctions for being a " prolific enabler " of Russian oligarchs. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Vassiliades is also listed as the president of Kesaev's Bermuda company G IV-SP Air Service Ltd. in the ICIJ documents. A leaked record shows Cypriot lawyer Christodoulos G. Vassiliades's position as president for G IV-SP Air Service Ltd., which was connected to Kesaev. (International Consortium of Investigative Journalists) When reached for comment, Vassiliades responded that he had resigned from directorship of "all companies as of [April 4, 2023], including Global Air Services Limited," and did not address questions around Kesaev's jet. The plane was operated by U.K.-based Gamma Aviation with a Bermuda registration VQ-BKI until 2020, at which point it switched registration again and was operated by Austria-based Avcon Jet, at its local office Avcon Jet San Marino, as T7-KIA. San Marino, a microstate surrounded by Italy, isn't part of the EU and has historically been friendly to Russia even buying Russia's Sputnik COVID-19 vaccine although it joined Western countries in sanctioning Russia in March 2022. An RA-73565 jet was imported by Delo Group on Feb. 17, 2022. (Luba Ostrovskaya/JetPhotos) According to flight records, the last time the plane was in Europe was on Feb. 19, 2022. Russia's invasion of Ukraine was imminent, and the West had been threatening sanctions for weeks. On that day, the jet flew from Milan, Italy, to Moscow under Avcon's operation. Flight record data shows Bombardier jet T7-KIA's journey from Milan to Moscow. (OpenSky Network) It's unclear who was operating the plane after that. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Documents from CH-Aviation state that until Feb. 27, 2022, two days after European aviation sanctions were announced, Avcon was listed as the operator of the plane as it travelled between Moscow and the Maldives on Feb. 25 and 27. Data from flight tracking company ADS-B Exchange also lists the plane's operator code during those flights as starting with "VAJ," which according to Eurocontrol belongs to Avcon Jet San Marino. These codes may be stored on the plane's onboard computers even after an operator change. An ADS-B Exchange record shows the Bombardier jet T7-KIA's path from the Maldives to Moscow in February 2022. (ADS-B Exchange) Avcon Jet San Marino disputed that it was operating the plane after European sanctions came into force and said that it had been "the service provider for the aircraft T7-KIA in the past, however all services were terminated immediately following the publications of sanctions." "No flights have been performed under our service agreement since Feb. 22 [2022]." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The plane appears to go dark until June 2023, when it re-emerges with Russian registration just before being imported on July 10, 2023, by Kesaev, more than a year after sanctions came into force. The shipper, according to import records, was Global Air Services Limited. Oligarch connected to jet for years CBC found evidence linking Kesaev to the jet years before he imported it into Russia in 2023. A leaked database of the Russian border service provided to CBC by iStories , an independent Russian investigative journalism website, showed that on Aug. 13, 2021, Kesaev travelled from Russia to Genoa, Italy, on board a flight with the tail T7-KIA. A portion of a Russian border service database shows a flight from Moscow to Genoa on Aug. 13, 2021. (iStories) According to data from ADS-B Exchange flight logs, a plane with the same tail T7-KIA flew from Moscow to Genoa Cristoforo Colombo Airport in Italy on the same day. ADS-B Exchange data in a spreadsheet shows a flight from Moscow to Genoa, Italy. (ADS-B Exchange) Russian internet users have long connected Kesaev to the plane. A 2017 Instagram post from a Russian plane spotter featuring a photo of a black Bombardier jet with the tail VQ-BKI the plane's tail before switching to T7-KIA reads "bombardier Igor Kesaev." A commenter wrote: "Kesaeva is global." In another Instagram post of the plane from 2018, the caption reads "Kesaevsky Black Beauty." An Instagram post by user yaablin shows the plane registered as VQ-BKI in 2018. The caption says 'Kesaevsky Black Beauty,' which Russian internet users have long connected to Kesaev, years before he imported it into Russia. (yaablin/Instagram) Last year, Kesaev applied to be removed from the EU sanctions list, claiming he had divested from his investment in the Degtyarev plant, which an EU court rejected . Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Christina McCraw, a spokesperson for Bombardier, said: "Bombardier conducts its business in strict compliance with applicable laws and government-published sanctions." "The company has processes in place to ensure that aircraft, parts and services are not sold to sanctioned parties." WATCH | Unravelling a global network getting planes into Russia: De Havilland Canada, which also had planes on the Russian import list, said that its aircraft were sold on the secondary market and were in Russia before the start of the war, after which they were effectively seized and re-registered in the country. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Neil Sweeney, vice-president of corporate affairs for De Havilland Canada, said: "De Havilland Canada is aware of and abides by the international sanctions placed by Canada. Since sanctions were introduced, we have sold neither parts nor aircraft to Russia." Both Bombardier and De Havilland said they comply with government-issued sanctions. Do you have any tips on this story? Please contact Eric Szeto: eric.szeto@cbc.ca NEED TO KNOW Sara Jane Moore fired a shot at President Gerald Ford on Sept. 22, 1975 as the exited the St. Francis Hotel in San Francisco, but missed by inches due to a faulty sight on her gun She served 32 years of her life sentence before being released from custody in 2007, and said she believed that killing a sitting president would spark a revolution in the U.S. Moore, who had four children and was married five times, passed away at the age of 95 in a Tennessee nursing home Sara Jane Moore, who attempted to assassinate President Gerald Ford, has passed away. The 95-year-old died on Sept. 24 at a nursing home in Franklin, Tenn. reports the Nashville Banner. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Moore died almost 50 years to the day that she attempted to kill the sitting president on Sept. 22, 1975. She waited for President Ford outside the St. Francis Hotel in San Francisco armed with a .38 caliber handgun. President Ford managed to escape with his life despite Moore firing from just 40 feet away, due to a fault with the weapons sight. Moore was unaware of this issue, having just purchased the gun that morning after police confiscated the revolver she intended to use along with over 100 rounds of ammunition. Corbis via Getty Pres. Gerald Ford winces as he hears the gunshot on Sept. 22, 1975 Pres. Gerald Ford winces as he hears the gunshot on Sept. 22, 1975 The bullet missed by just a few inches and a former Marine standing in the crowd managed to grab Moore's arm and divert the second bullet, which struck a cab driver who suffered non-fatal injuries. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Moore later explained her actions by calling herself a revolutionary who had been inspired by the kidnapping of Patricia Patty Hearst by the Symbionese Liberation Army, as well as her opposition to the Vietnam War. She said she believed killing the president might spark a revolution. Getty Sara Jane Moore is carried off by police after the shooting Sara Jane Moore is carried off by police after the shooting Prior to the shooting, Moore had been an FBI informant, reporting to the agency on the food bank founded by Pattys father Randolph Hearst in response to her kidnapping, where she volunteered as a bookkeeper. Moore did not fight the criminal charges at her trial, pleading guilty to the attempted assassination and accepting a life sentence. Want to keep up with the latest crime coverage? Sign up for PEOPLE's free True Crime newsletter for breaking crime news, ongoing trial coverage and details of intriguing unsolved cases. She managed to escape from federal prison in 1979 but was quickly re-apprehended by authorities. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Moore was released after 32 years in 2007 and led a quiet life during her final two decades, marrying for a fifth time and avoiding any run-ins with the law save for a minor incident in 2019, when she left the country without telling her parole officer. Janet Fries/Getty Sara Jane Moore two months before the attempted assassination Sara Jane Moore two months before the attempted assassination She remains one of only two women to have ever been convicted of attempting to assassinate a sitting president. The other woman, Manson Family member Lynette Squeaky Fromme, also attempted to shoot President Ford also in California, less than three weeks before Moore's attempt. Both women were sent to serve their sentences at the Federal Correctional Institute in Dublin, California. Moore, who had four children at the time of the attempted assassination, is also the only mother to attempt to assassinate a sitting president. Read the original article on People Scientists at NASA have spotted a brand-new island on Alaska's remote Alsek Lake as water rapidly replaces ice, with glaciers thinning and new lakes forming. What's happening? According to images released by NASA, a new landmass has appeared in a lake in southeastern Alaska within a remote corner of the St. Elias Mountains, more than 60 miles from the nearest human settlement. The glacier ice that once surrounded the island has melted away over decades of global warming, revealing Prow Knob Island. NASA's Earth Observatory released images showing how the Alsek Glacier has shrunk since 1984, using Landsat 5 through Landsat 9 satellites. In older images, the small mountain jutted into the lake but was connected by the surrounding glacier; now, the melting ice has turned it into an island. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Technically, Prow Knob is now considered a nunatak, a rocky peak above flowing glacier ice, with the glacier reduced to just a stub. Why is this new island concerning? The new island is a clear sign of significant ice melt along the southeastern Alaskan coast, with new lakes emerging across the region, highlighting the larger dangers of melting glaciers. As glaciers shrink and lakes expand, more freshwater flows into oceans, driving up sea levels. Higher tides and storm surges put coastal homes and infrastructure at risk, while communities far from the coast experience downstream effects through disrupted food systems, damaged fisheries, and the spread of diseases carried by shifting ecosystem dynamics. The ice's melting separation from the mountain will continue in a process known as calving. Alsek Lake will keep growing, having expanded by 11 square miles since 1984. The expanding waters serve as a reminder of the cost of human-made warming that is wreaking havoc on known and unknown corners of the globe. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement NASA researchers have warned that this pattern is accelerating worldwide, with Arctic ice loss linked to extreme weather that supercharges storms, floods, and heat waves globally. What's being done about melting glaciers? The new island may be remote, but it's a visible sign of the global warming crisis affecting communities worldwide. Communities, scientists, and policymakers are working on solutions to this melting issue. Coastal cities are investing in resilient infrastructure, such as seawalls and terraforming, while international agreements aim to reduce the pollution driving global warming. You can also help by making changes at home, from switching to clean energy to reducing waste and rethinking travel habits. From advances in flood-resistant architecture to smarter farming methods that protect food supplies, science and technology are making strides to help protect us and the planet, but larger changes need to be made to reduce reliance on dirty energy and other climate-heating human activities. Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet. Zafree, a sustainable paper company based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, is revolutionizing the industry by ditching trees and using banana waste to make paper and packaging. Its approach not only diverts organic waste from landfills but also helps combat deforestation by reducing the demand for wood pulp, according to ThePackHub. Banana waste is typically discarded, which means Zafree is using a zero-waste approach to create packaging instead of creating more damage to make new paper products. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Beyond Zafree's impactful product, the company has also created a new supply chain in Ethiopia. It has partnered with over 20 farmers, generating more income locally in Ethiopia. Since its inception in 2018, Zafree has saved over 500 trees, prevented 100 tons of carbon pollution, distributed one ton of organic fertilizer to farmers, employed over 100 gig workers, and partnered with over 20 farmers. Zafree's pulp is applicable for both local and international export use. On its website, it has multiple types of "Z-foam" pulp available in different densities, as well as kraft paper, liners, corrugated cartons, paper shopping bags, and even handmade notebooks. The global annual waste of paper is 456 million tons. It takes 24 trees to make one ton of paper, which is why 4 billion trees are cut down every year, according to Business Waste. It also requires five liters of water just to make one sheet of A4 paper. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Paper is often recycled incorrectly, as 26% of waste in landfills is paper, even though it can be recycled. If Zafree can shift this industry toward using organic waste instead of new wood pulp, it would have a significant impact on water use, energy use, and organic waste management. Zafree's CEO and founder, Bethelhem Dejene Abebe, was honored with the Founder of the Year award at the Global Startup Awards Africa 2024 for the company's successes. Abebe's hope is to scale up its operations to meet the global demand for sustainable packaging needs. Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet. An American citizen who had been detained in Afghanistan since December has been released through Qatari mediation. The release of Amir Amiri, who was on his way back to the United States on Sunday, is the fifth US citizen to be freed by Afghanistans Taliban rulers, who returned to power in August 2021 after the withdrawal of US-led forces from the country after 20 years of occupation and war. Negotiations lasted several months after Qatari officials secured an initial meeting between Amiri and the US special envoy for hostage affairs, Adam Boehler, sources with knowledge of the matter told Al Jazeera. The breakthrough that secured his release was reached this weekend, they said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement US Secretary of State Marco Rubio welcomed Amiris release, saying it marked the US governments determination to protect American nationals from wrongful detention abroad. While this marks an important step forward, additional Americans remain unjustly detained in Afghanistan, he said. President [Donald] Trump will not rest until all our captive citizens are back home. Rubio did not provide details as to why or where Amiri was detained. The other four American citizens released this year are Ryan Corbett, William McKenty, George Glezmann and Faye Hall. Qatar, a member of the Gulf Cooperation Council, also helped in the release of a British couple on September 19. They were imprisoned for months. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Qatar has been assisting the Trump administration in mediating the release of captives since Taliban forces seized Kabul on August 15, 2021, after the US-backed government collapsed and its leaders fled into exile. While no country in the world formally recognises the Taliban-led government in Afghanistan, Doha has maintained diplomatic channels with the Taliban to facilitate dialogue and provide an avenue for sensitive negotiations. Qatars foreign minister said Amiri was on his way to Doha and would then continue his journey to the US. Minister of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mohammed bin Abdulaziz bin Saleh Al Khulaifi, said in a statement on X that his release serves as a significant step toward encouraging direct dialogue and enhancing communication channels between parties. Afghan Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi said the step taken by his government was positive and thanked Qatar for its effective role in facilitating the release. By Nidal al-Mughrabi and Steve Holland CAIRO/WASHINGTON (Reuters) -U.S. President Donald Trump hopes to finalize a Gaza peace plan proposal in a meeting on Monday with Israel's Prime Minister, Trump told Reuters on Sunday, as Israeli tanks pushed deeper into Gaza City and the military wing of Hamas said it had lost contact with two hostages held there. The fate of the two hostages, which has strong domestic resonance in Israel, could cast a shadow over a meeting between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Trump on Monday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Hamas military wing, Al-Qassam Brigades, called on Israel on Sunday to pull troops back and suspend air strikes on Gaza City for 24 hours so fighters could retrieve the captives. Trump told Reuters in a phone interview he had received a "very good response" from Israel and Arab leaders to the Gaza peace plan proposal and that "everybody wants to make a deal." Hamas said the group had not yet received any proposal from Trump nor from mediators. Israel has launched a massive ground assault on Gaza City, flattening whole districts and ordering hundreds of thousands of Palestinians to flee to tented camps, in what Netanyahu says is a bid to destroy Hamas. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nevertheless, the past few days have seen increasing talk of a diplomatic resolution to the nearly two-year-old Gaza war. Trump's 21-point Middle East peace plan to end the Gaza war calls for the return of all Israeli hostages, living and dead, no further Israeli attacks on Qatar and a new dialogue between Israel and Palestinians for peaceful coexistence. HAMAS URGES ISRAELI MILITARY TO PULL BACK Netanyahu has repeatedly said Hamas must lay down its arms or be defeated. He told Fox News earlier on Sunday it is possible to have amnesty for Hamas leaders under a ceasefire agreement that would include them being escorted out of Gaza. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hamas has so far said it will never give up its weapons as long as Palestinians are struggling for a state. It refuses any expulsion of its leaders from Gaza. Al-Qassam Brigades called on the Israeli military to pull troops back from the Sabra and Tel Al-Hawa districts southeast of Gaza City's centre, and suspend flights over the area for 24 hours from 1500 GMT so it could reach the two trapped hostages. The Israeli military did not directly comment on the request but made clear it had no plans to halt its advances, issuing a statement ordering all residents of parts of Gaza City including the Sabra district to leave. It said it was about to attack Hamas targets and raze buildings in the area. Gaza residents and medics said Israeli tanks pushed deeper into Sabra, Tel Al-Hawa and nearby Sheikh Radwan and Al-Naser neighbourhoods, closing in on the heart of the city and western areas where hundreds of thousands of people are sheltering. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement RESCUERS UNABLE TO REACH TRAPPED RESIDENTS The Gaza health ministry said in a statement that at least 77 people had been killed by Israeli fire in the past 24 hours. Local health authorities said they had been unable to respond to dozens of desperate calls from trapped residents. Gaza's Civil Emergency Service said late on Saturday that Israel had denied 73 requests, sent via international organisations, to let it rescue injured Palestinians in Gaza City. The Israeli military had no immediate comment. The families of the two hostages identified by Hamas have requested that their names not be published by the media. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The war began after Hamas-led militants attacked Israeli territory in October 2023, killing around 1,200 people and capturing 251 hostages, according to Israeli tallies. Forty-eight hostages are still in Gaza, 20 of whom Netanyahu says are still alive. Israel's assault has killed more than 66,000 Palestinians, according to medical authorities in the territory. Most homes have been damaged or destroyed and 2.3 million residents are living under a severe humanitarian crisis. The Israeli military says Hamas, which ruled Gaza for nearly two decades, no longer has governing capacity and that its military force has been reduced to a guerrilla movement. The military launched its long-threatened ground offensive on Gaza City on September 16 after weeks of intensifying strikes on the urban centre. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Over the past 24 hours, the air force had struck 140 military targets across Gaza, including militants and what it described as military infrastructure, the military said. The World Food Programme estimates that between 350,000 and 400,000 Palestinians have fled Gaza City since last month, although hundreds of thousands remain. The Israeli military estimates that around a million Palestinians were in Gaza City in August. (Reporting by Nidal al-Mughrabi in Cairo; Additional reporting by Steven Scheer, Alexander Cornwell and May Angel in Jerusalem and Ahmed Tolba in Cairo; Writing by Nia Williams; Editing by David Holmes, Peter Graff and Diane Craft) MOSCOW -Pavel Durov, the billionaire founder of the Telegram messaging app, accused French intelligence on Sunday of having asked him through an intermediary to censor some Moldovan voices in return for help with his court case in France. Moldovans were voting in a parliamentary election on Sunday that could have a major impact on the government's quest to join the European Union, as a pro-Russian opposition group seeks to steer the nation away from closer ties with the bloc. In a post in English on X, the French foreign ministry noted that Durov had made similar accusations about France trying to manipulate politics in Romania earlier this year, around the time of elections there: "After Romania, Moldova. @durov likes making accusations while elections are ongoing." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Durov was arrested in 2024 at a French airport and is under judicial supervision in France while being investigated for suspected organised crime on the app. Durov denies guilt and has said the accusations by France are "legally and logically absurd". DUROV SAYS HE WAS ASKED TO CENSOR CHANNELS Durov said on Sunday that while he was stuck in Paris, French intelligence used an intermediary, whom he did not identify, to ask him to "censor" some Telegram channels for the Moldovan government. Durov said "a few that clearly violated our rules" were removed and that the intermediary told him that in exchange, French intelligence would "say good things" about him to the judge who ordered his arrest, which he said was "unacceptable". Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "If the agency did in fact approach the judge it constituted an attempt to interfere in the judicial process," Durov said. "If it did not, and merely claimed to have done so, then it was exploiting my legal situation in France to influence political developments in Eastern Europe...." FRANCE DENIED PAST ACCUSATIONS Durov said in May that the head of France's foreign intelligence agency asked him to ban Romanian conservative voices ahead of elections there. France's DGSE, the foreign intelligence service, denied that at the time. Telegram was founded by Durov, who left Russia in 2014 after he refused to comply with demands to shut down opposition communities on his VK social media platform, which he has sold. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The encrypted application, with over 1 billion monthly active users, is particularly influential in former Soviet states including Russia and Ukraine. (Writing by Guy FaulconbridgeAdditional reporting by Gus TrompizEditing by Andrew Cawthorne and Peter Graff) Clashes have erupted between demonstrators and police as thousands protested in Argentinas capital, Buenos Aires, to demand justice over the torture and killing of two young women and a teenager, which was livestreamed on social media by a purported drug gang. Thousands of protesters took to the streets on Saturday to denounce the killings that shocked Argentinians after it was revealed that the murders were perpetrated live on the Instagram platform and watched by 45 members of a private account, officials said. The bodies of Morena Verdi and Brenda del Castillo, cousins aged 20, and 15-year-old Lara Gutierrez were found buried on Wednesday in the yard of a house in a southern suburb of Buenos Aires, five days after they went missing. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Investigators said the victims, thinking they were going to a party, were lured into a van on September 19, allegedly as part of a plan to punish them for violating gang code and to serve as a warning to others. Police discovered a video of the triple murder after a suspect in the disappearance of the three revealed it under questioning, according to Javier Alonso, the security minister for the Buenos Aires province. In the footage, a gang leader is heard saying: This is what happens to those who steal drugs from me. Argentinian media reported that the torturers cut off fingers, pulled out nails, and beat and suffocated the victims. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement While most of the protesters who took part in the demonstration on Saturday marched peacefully, some confronted police who responded by aggressively pushing them away using their batons and shields, according to video clips and images posted by the La Izquierda Diario online news site. Thousands of protesters took to the streets of Buenos Aires on Saturday to denounce the killings of Morena Verdi and Brenda del Castillo, cousins aged 20, and 15-year-old Lara Gutierrez, by a suspected drug gang [Luis Robayo/AFP] As they marched towards the Argentinian parliament with thousands of supporters, family members of the victims held a banner with their names, Lara, Brenda, Morena, and placards with the images of the three. Women must be protected more than ever, Brendas father, Leonel del Castillo, was quoted by the AFP news agency as telling reporters at the protest. He had earlier said he had not been able to identify his daughters body due to the torture she had endured. It was a narco-femicide! read a sign at the protest. Another declared, Our lives are not disposable! Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The protesters also banged on drums as they marched and denounced the inaction of the administration of President Javier Milei against what they called the growing narco influence in the country. An image posted on social media showed protesters burning an image of Milei and other political allies of his administration. Antonio del Castillo, the grandfather of the slain 20-year-old cousins, was in tears, calling his granddaughters killers bloodthirsty. You wouldnt do what they did to them to an animal, he said. On Friday, Minister of National Security Patricia Bullrich announced the arrest of a fifth suspect in the case, bringing the total to three men and two women. The fifth suspect, accused of offering logistical support in the killing by providing a vehicle involved in the crime, was arrested in the Bolivian border city of Villazon . Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Authorities have also released a photograph of the alleged mastermind, a 20-year-old Peruvian, who remains at large. Meta, the parent company of Instagram, has disputed that the livestream occurred on its platform, according to the AFP, citing a company spokesperson. Four people are confirmed dead and more remain missing after devastating flash floods hit Arizona. A state of emergency was declared in the city of Globe, around 90 miles east of Phoenix, and officials said their primary objective was search and rescue in the waterways following severe rain on Friday that continued into the weekend. Officials are particularly concerned with hundreds of propane tanks, which may have been washed downstream, causing a major hazmat issue. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Carl Melford, emergency manager in Gila County told KPHO that two of the deceased were found in a vehicle, and another in the floodwaters, though were not immediately identified by authorities. A fourth was found Saturday morning by Scottsdale Fire Department near to a vehicle caught in floodwaters in suburban Phoenix. Officers said the vehicle had appeared empty after it was spotted Friday evening submerged in eight feet of water. Three people are dead and many more remain missing after devastating flash floods hit Globe, Arizona (AZFamily) However, after water levels dropped overnight crews found a person pinned underneath a walkway bridge, the department told CBS. Historic Downtown Globe is currently unsafe, with compromised buildings as well as hazardous chemicals and debris, including propane tanks. For your safety, please stay out of the area until further notice, a post from the city read Saturday. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We do not need additional people in the flood zone. Extra traffic puts lives at risk and makes it harder for first responders to do their jobs. We understand the deep desire to help right now, our community always steps up. But the best way to help at this time is to have patience and allow trained professionals the space to do what is needed. Carl Melford, the emergency manager at Gila County Division of Emergency Management, asked community members to help each other out, but also urged caution. For those that are able to check on your neighbors, help out your neighbors, he said, per KTVK, though added: If volunteers self-deploy into these flooded areas, it could throw off the cadaver dogs. It could cause more issues. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So we know that people would love to help, but theres, theres other ways to help, such as, you know, helping out with providing drinks or food for the shelters or anything else like that, could be a tremendous help. A state of emergency was declared in the city of Globe, around 90 miles east of Phoenix, and officials said their primary objective was search and rescue in the waterways following severe rain on Friday that continued into the weekend (AZFamily) Parts of the town and nearby roads including Highway 60 have been re-opened, though others including Broad Street remain closed to the public until all hazards have been cleared. Red Cross shelters have been opened at High Desert and Lee Kornegay. Globes Mayor, Al Gameros, thanked emergency crews for their diligent and ongoing work. Gameros said that the city had been in touch with Arizona Governor Katie Hobb's Office, as well as Senator Mark Kelly and Congressman Eli Crane. I urge everyone to be patient with the process as we continue operations. Three people were killed and at least five others were injured when a gunman on a boat opened fire on patrons at a waterfront bar in a coastal North Carolina town in what police say was a highly premeditated attack. Nigel Edge, 40, was arrested and charged with three counts of first-degree murder, five counts of attempted first-degree murder and five counts of assault with a deadly weapon, Southport Police Chief Todd Coring said at a Sunday press conference. The shooting, which erupted about 9:30 p.m. Saturday, took place along a popular stretch of bars and restaurants in the historic port town about 30 miles south of Wilmington. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Investigators said the suspect was traveling by boat along the Cape Fear River around 9:30 p.m. Saturday, when he paused briefly in front of the waterfront establishment American Fish Company, and began shooting. The gunman then fled along the Intracoastal Waterway toward Oak Island. Roughly half an hour later, a U.S. Coast Guard crew spotted a person matching the suspects description pulling a boat from the water at a public ramp on Oak Island. The person was detained and turned over to Southport police for questioning, officials said. Edge is being held at the Brunswick County Detention Center with no bond and is set to be in court on Monday. Authorities have not given additional details about the attack, only that it was premeditated and that the restaurant was a targeted location. Nigel Edge faces charges in the shooting at American Fish Company in Southport on Saturday night. Three people were killed when he opened fire from a boat, cops say. (Brunswick County Sheriff's Office) The victims killed in the shooting have not been publicly identified. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Local district attorney Jon David said that among the five people hospitalized, at least one is now clinging for their life. Some of the victims were vacationers, he added. Evil has come ashore in Southport, North Carolina, David said. Ironically enough, at the very place which once served as a backdrop to the movie Safe Haven, he added, referring to the 2013 movie. Oak Island Police Chief Charlie Morris said the suspect was known to police as someone who frequently hung out on our pier, and that he had filed lawsuits against the town and police department over the last few years, according to the Associated Press. The district attorney said Edge had had minor contacts with police in the past but nothing significant in his past which would give us any indication that he was capable of such horror. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The incident initially drew an active shooter response, with the city urging residents to stay inside and report suspicious activity. A motive for the deadly shooting has not been released. (WECT) Investigators from multiple agencies including the State Bureau of Investigation and the Coast Guard remained on the water and at the scene Sunday to collect evidence and interviewing witnesses. The police chief said there is no longer a threat to the public. Coring called it a very tragic night for the tight-knit coastal community. Southport is located near the mouth of the Cape Fear River, about 30 miles south of Wilmington. Were a small community, one of the communities where everybody knows everybody, the chief said. Its just a very tragic night. By Steve Holland and Idrees Ali WASHINGTON (Reuters) -President Donald Trump said on Sunday that he would tell a gathering of U.S. generals and admirals in Quantico, Virginia, that they were cherished leaders who needed to be strong and tough. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth summoned senior U.S. military leaders from around the world for a meeting in Quantico on Tuesday -- a rare gathering of the country's military leadership in one location. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I want to tell the generals that we love them, they're cherished leaders, to be strong, be tough and be smart and be compassionate," Trump told Reuters in an interview. "That's all that is, esprit de corps. It's about time somebody did that," he added. Trump's attendance could overshadow Hegseth, who was expected to discuss the need to adhere to a "warrior ethos" throughout the military and could touch on other areas. The U.S. has troops around the world, including in distant locations like South Korea, Japan and across the Middle East, which are commanded by two-, three- and four-star generals and admirals. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In almost every public speech he gives, Hegseth talks about the "warrior ethos" and the need for the U.S. military to have a warrior mentality. Earlier this month, Trump signed an executive order to rename the Department of Defense as the "Department of War," reverting to a title it held until after World War Two when officials sought to emphasize the Pentagon's role in preventing conflict. Hegseth, a former Fox News host, has moved with stunning speed to reshape the department, firing top generals and admirals as he seeks to implement Trump's national security agenda and root out diversity initiatives he calls discriminatory. Officials have told Reuters that the event is expected to take place at the Marine Corps University in Quantico, Virginia. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Some of the senior-most officials, who are provided U.S. military aircraft for official travel, are expected to fly into Joint Base Andrews in Maryland. It is unclear why the gathering could not have taken place virtually and will likely cost at least millions of dollars to transport and protect the large gathering. (Reporting by Steven Holland, Idrees Ali in Washington and Brendan O'Brien in Chicago, Editing by Louise Heavens and Franklin Paul) "We have a real chance for Greatness in the Middle East. All are on board for something special, first time ever. We will get it done," he said in a Truth Social post. US President Donald Trump hopes to finalize his 21-point peace plan for Gaza during his meeting with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday. Trump told Reuters in a phone interview on Sunday that "everybody wants to make the deal." He added that he has gotten a "very good response" from both Israeli and Arab leaders to the proposal, which he hopes will achieve a broader peace in the Middle East beyond Gaza. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Separately, the US president said that negotiations over his plan to end the war in Gaza are "at their final stages" and asserted that a deal could open the way for wider peace in the Middle East, Axios reported on Sunday night. Earlier on Sunday, just days after saying he was close to forging a deal to end the war in Gaza, Trump stated on his Truth Social social media platform that there was "a real chance for greatness in the Middle East," without providing specific details. "We have a real chance for Greatness in the Middle East. All are on board for something special, first time ever. We will get it done," he stated in the post. Trump's statement comes after the Washington Post revealed the US administration's 21-point plan to end the war in Gaza. Trump's 21-point plan for peace According to the Washington Post, the plan involves an immediate halt to fighting, the release of the remaining 20 living hostages and the bodies of 28 others held by Hamas within the first 48 hours of the deal, and the destruction of the groups offensive weapons. It also includes political incentives, such as amnesty and safe passage abroad for Hamas members who agree to disarm, as well as a potential pathway toward Palestinian statehood once reforms are in place. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The US presented the plan to regional and allied governments during the United Nations General Assembly this past week. Neither Israel nor Hamas has accepted the proposal yet. Hamas later claimed that it had not received a new proposal since Israel's strikes on Qatar. Hamas will receive information on Trump's 21-point plan in the next 24 hours, sources familiar with the matter told Israeli public broadcaster KAN News on Sunday night. Hamas is ready to positively and responsibly consider any proposal that arrives from the mediators, provided that such a proposal protects the national rights of the Palestinians, the terror group said in a statement. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer met with President Trumps envoy, Steve Witkoff, and the presidents son-in-law, Jared Kushner, on Sunday to discuss Trumps 21-point plan. Much of the discussion revolves around wording the plan, a source familiar with the details told The Jerusalem Post. One of the challenges is how to state, on the one hand, that the Palestinian Authority will not be involved in governing Gaza - as Israel demands - while on the other hand, saying that it will be involved - as the Arab states are demanding. An Israeli official said the goal is to arrive at Mondays meeting between Netanyahu and Trump at the White House with as few gaps as possible between Washington and Jerusalem. Meanwhile, an Egyptian delegation is expected to travel to Qatar on Monday for meetings with senior Hamas officials. After the NetanyahuTrump meeting, the focus is expected to shift back to Hamas leaders in Doha, another source familiar with the details explained. Hamas has been shown several drafts of the presidents 21-point plan but has not yet seen the final document. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement On Sunday, an Israeli official told the Post that at this stage it is difficult to see Hamas agreeing to release all the hostages within the first week or to completely disarm. In an interview with Fox News, Netanyahu confirmed that US administration officials and senior Israeli representatives are currently working on the 21-point agreement. We hope to move the deal forward. Nothing is finalized yet, Netanyahu said. He also clarified that if Hamas leaders leave Gaza, release the hostages, and end the war, Israel would allow them safe passage. The Trump administration is optimistic about the chances of success for the president's proposal. Vice President JD Vance also expressed optimism, saying he feels hopeful. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Jordan's King Abdullah said on Sunday that many details of Trump's plan to end the war in Gaza were "in line with what has been agreed upon," the Jordanian state news agency reported. He did not give further details on the plan itself or what it entailed. President Trump said the deadly shooting at a Mormon church in Michigan on Sunday appears to be a targeted attack on Christians after authorities say a man crashed his car into the church and set fire to the building. Trump said in a post on his Truth Social platform that hes been briefed on the shooting at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc, Mich., about 60 miles northwest of Detroit. The president called for an end to the epidemic of violence in the United States. I have been briefed on the horrendous shooting that took place at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, in Grand Blanc, Michigan. The FBI was immediately on scene, and will be leading the Federal Investigation, and providing full support to State and Local Officials. The suspect is dead, but there is still a lot to learn, Trump wrote. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This appears to be yet another targeted attack on Christians in the United States of America, he continued. The Trump Administration will keep the Public posted, as we always do. In the meantime, PRAY for the victims, and their families. THIS EPIDEMIC OF VIOLENCE IN OUR COUNTRY MUST END, IMMEDIATELY! he added. Authorities said four people were dead and eight others injured after the suspect drove through the front doors of the church and then began shooting before setting fire to the building. Police said the building was actively on fire into the late morning. The suspect was declared dead after an exchange of gunfire with authorities, the local police chief said during a press conference Sunday afternoon. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Multiple members of Congress who are members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints condemned the violence while offering prayers for the victims and their families. @POTUS is right: Christianity is under attack in the United States, Rep. Andy Biggs (R-Ariz.) posted on the social platform X. These cowardly and senseless acts of violence have no place in our society, wrote Rep. Mike Kennedy (R-Utah). The shooting came as Mormons mourned the death of Russell Nelson, the oldest-serving president of the church, who died Saturday at the age of 101. As Latter-day Saints mourn the passing of our beloved Prophet, we are also shocked by violence in one of our meetinghouses. President Nelson called on us to be peacemakersand thats exactly what we need right now. I pray we can pull together and be our best, most compassionate selves, Rep. Celeste Maloy (R-Utah) posted on X. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of prayers and concern from so many people around the world. In moments of sorrow and uncertainty, we find strength and comfort through our faith in Jesus Christ, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints posted on X. Places of worship are meant to be sanctuaries of peacemaking, prayer and connection. We pray for peace and healing for all involved. The attack comes amid a number of high-profile shootings in recent weeks that have captured the publics attention, including a Minnesota Catholic school shooting that unfolded as children gathered for their first morning mass of the school year. The FBI is investigating that incident as a hate crime targeting Catholics. Updated: 9:25 p.m. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. President Donald Trump signed a sweeping directive Thursday to combat domestic terrorism and political violence, following the assassination of right-wing activist Charlie Kirk. The new National Security Presidential Memorandum establishes a comprehensive federal strategy to investigate and dismantle organized political violence networks. The directive comes two weeks after Kirk was killed while speaking at Utah Valley University on September 10. The administration characterizes his death as part of an escalating pattern of targeted political violence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Under the new strategy, the FBIs Joint Terrorism Task Forces will coordinate investigations into all aspects of political violence. This includes tracking radicalization, recruitment, funding mechanisms, and the involvement of non-governmental organizations. According to the memorandum, the Attorney General must prosecute all federal crimes related to organized political violence. It identifies doxing campaigns, swatting, rioting, and property crimes as domestic terrorism priorities. The memorandum directs the Treasury Secretary to disrupt financial networks funding domestic terrorism and instructs the IRS Commissioner to ensure tax-exempt entities are not financing political violence, referring violators to the Justice Department. The directive instructs the Attorney General to recommend groups for potential designation as so-called domestic terrorist organizations, according to the White House. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement According to the White House, attacks on ICE officers have increased by more than 1,000% since January 21, 2025. A shooting at an ICE facility in Dallas on Wednesday resulted in multiple casualties. The administration cites previous incidents, including assassination attempts on Trump in 2024 and on Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh. It also references the 2024 assassination of a healthcare executive and anti-police riots that caused $2 billion in property damage. For years, those on the radical left have compared wonderful Americans like Charlie [Kirk] to Nazis and the worlds worst mass murderers and criminals, Trump stated. This kind of rhetoric is directly responsible for the terrorism that were seeing in our country today, and it must stop right now. Trump vowed his administration would pursue each and every one of those who contributed to this atrocity, and to other political violence, including the organizations that fund it and support it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The memorandum attributes political violence to coordinated efforts under self-described anti-fascism and anti-American principles. It calls for investigating all participants in these criminal and terroristic conspiracies. Trump previously announced Antifa would be treated as a domestic terrorist organization, directing federal agencies to investigate and dismantle its operations. The directive comes alongside broader administration efforts, including the America 250 Task Force on patriotism, expanded civics education, and a declared crime emergency in Washington, D.C. Trump, Miller compromised Erika Kirks message It was very touching to hear Erika Kirk give a heartfelt tribute to her husband, Charlie, at his memorial. Her forgiveness of the attacker, difficult to as that must be, and her call to "love our enemies" was a powerful and grace-filled response. That made it even more jarring to hear President Donald Trump say just minutes later, I hate my opponents. ... I dont wish the best for them, and undermine her peacemaking message. Recall that Trump is still irresponsibly casting blame on the left for the murder. It is sad that Turning Point USA gave control of that podium to partisan staff, like Trump political aide Stephen Miller, whose diatribe (we will prevail over the forces of wickedness ... we are on the side of God) felt wildly out of place at a memorial service. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Im not sure our country can take much more of this division. I hope we have the courage to criticize anyone in our tribe who cheers violence, dehumanizes others, or blames entire groups for acts by a demented individual. Kedron Bardwell, Indianola More: Ian Roberts and ICE both get too much derision after superintendent's arrest | Opinion Education has lost its way While visiting an eighth-grade classroom in northwest Iowa I saw this on the bulletin board: Classroom Constitution We the students of the 8th grade believe that the purpose of education is to reinforce social, emotional, and ethical norms while teaching students the information and skills needed to become productive individuals in our world. We also believe the function of school is to provide a safe environment that helps produce critical thinkers who will succeed in life. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Foolish me, I thought the purpose of school was to teach math, science, and language arts. But then, The National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) shows a long-term decline in math scores. The NAEP shows the decline in science scores is in all three areas, physical science, life science, and earth science. The NAEP also shows that there are a number of eighth-graders who lack basic reading comprehension. This tells me the math teacher doesn't really have to teach math, the science teacher doesn't really have to teach science, and the reading teacher isn't teaching basic comprehension of what the students read. Do I believe that the long-term effects of DEI are dangerous? Yes, I do. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Donald C Parsons, Sioux City More: Don't privatize prison health care. Iowa can't afford the cost. | Opinion Iowa has put a prison health care crisis in motion In July the Iowa Department of Corrections began exploring prison health care privatization, and since then health care workers have steadily been leaving. As of Sept. 22, 48 out of 307 workers have already resigned. Sept. 26 marks the deadline for vendor proposals, but state employees would not switch to a new employer for an additional seven to nine months as contracts are negotiated. Workers interest in signing on with a vendor is tepid at best. There are ample opportunities to hop to another state agency, or move to a more favorable work environment in the private sector. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement All indications are that resignations will continue unabated, and major nursing staff shortages are cropping up at multiple prisons. Applications for job vacancies have slowed dramatically. Realistic short-term solutions to address staffing crises are expensive for the Iowa taxpayer. One particularly worrisome possibility is Iowa cutting an emergency deal with a prison health care vendor. Such contracts in other states have been catastrophically expensive, such as Mississippis contract with VitalCore Health Strategies, which nearly doubled in cost to $100 million in just four years. New health care workers also do not materialize, so recruitment woes are simply outsourced at a steep fee. Inmate health care might not seem like a top priority in Iowa, but legal costs associated with soaring lapses in care are footed entirely by taxpayers. Adequate health care staffing at prisons is by far less expensive. Financially sound longer-term solutions for inmate health care are now much more difficult as a result of Iowa entertaining prison health care privatization. Vendor contracts very rarely lead to taxpayer savings, whereas simply continuing state-run health care is significantly damaged due to questionable job security. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement One prudent longer-term solution for prison health care is expanding the Department of Corrections existing partnership with University of Iowa Hospitals. Five other states partner with teaching hospitals to maximize efficiency and reduce costs. Seth Franke, Association of Federal, State, County and Municipal Employees Local 0451 Executive Board member, Newton Attacks in Caribbean threaten the rule of law As an attorney who has spent my career upholding the rule of law, I am appalled by President Donald Trumps recent orders to use lethal military force against suspected criminals at sea. According to the New York Times, at least 17 people were killed this month when U.S. forces, acting on the presidents command, destroyed three boats in the Caribbean Sea. The administration has produced no public evidence that the victims were drug traffickers or narcoterrorists, as the president labeled them. Even if the allegations were true, executing people without charges, trials or any form of due process is unlawful and incompatible with our Constitution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Fifth Amendment is not optional. No person may be deprived of life without due process of law. By ordering extrajudicial killings, the president has assumed powers that belong to neither monarchs nor dictators, let alone the elected head of a constitutional republic. This is not an act of war; it is the summary execution of human beings whom the president alone decided were criminals. What alarms me even more is the near-total silence from Congress. By refusing to speak out, lawmakers are normalizing the idea that the president can kill at will. That precedent, if left unchecked, will corrode the very foundations of our democracy and threaten all of us. The United States was founded on the rejection of arbitrary rule. We cannot stand by while a president turns military power into a tool of unilateral execution. Members of Congress must break their silence and defend the rule of law before it is too late. George Jones, Lamoni We are now living out 1984 Like many others, judging from the inventory at Barnes & Noble, I am rereading 1984. It is a precautionary tale of a future at which we have arrived 41 years tardy. Fifty years ago, Sen. Frank Church warned of what would descend on this country if a president with dictatorial inclinations managed to secure the reins of power. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Prophets are always ignored at their own times and in their own culture. If only we possessed the capacity to accurately read the signs of the times with the vision of such insightful wisdom we might grasp where are, the peril into which we have been brought and have the moral courage to call it out and to vigorously, loudly offer resistance. Gerald Feierfeil, Sioux City This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Iowa has put a prison health care crisis in motion | Letters Turkish drones and a frigate are tracking the Global Sumud flotilla near Crete as it heads toward Gaza, with Italy, Spain, and Greece also monitoring. Turkey appears to be using drones to monitor the Gaza-bound Global Sumud Flotilla, according to flight-tracking websites and open-source commentators. The drones emerged over the last two days and seem to be high-level, large UAVs that can fly for many hours at a time. They appear to be circling over areas near the flotilla, and they seem to be flying from Turkey. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ankara may be rotating several drones on station over the flotilla as the group of 40 vessels slowly makes its way southeast of Crete. Tensions flared in the Eastern Mediterranean on Friday as Turkish unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and a frigate operated just south of Crete, citing the protection of the Global Sumud Flotilla, a group of vessels sailing toward the Gaza Strip carrying humanitarian aid, the Greek City Times news site reported. The flotilla left the waters off Crete on Saturday after having anchored near the island of Koufonisia. It had traveled about 55 nautical miles by Sunday morning. Greta Thunberg and a crew member flash victory signs from their ship, part of the Global Sumud Flotilla aiming to reach Gaza and break Israel's naval blockade, as they sail off Crete island, Greece, September 25, 2025. (credit: REUTERS/Stefanos Rapanis TPX IMAGES OF THE DAY) It was unclear what type of drone Ankara might be using to monitor the flotilla. The Turkish-made TAI Anka drone can fly for more than 24 hours, and its Anka-S variant is capable of operating for up to 30 hours at altitudes as high as 30,000 feet. At that height, the drone would not be visible from the flotilla. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The possible presence of a Turkish drone adds to the number of militaries responding to the flotilla. Italy and Spain said they would send naval ships on September 24 to monitor or possibly assist the flotilla after the group claimed to be attacked by drones on the evening between September 23 and September 24. Italy then said it would send a second vessel. One of these ships apparently arrived on September 25. An NGO called EMERGENCY also sent a large support vessel Life Support. The Turkish drone was flying with the call sign VATOZ21, according to Greek City Times and online commentators who follow open-source flight data. A Turkish UAV with the call sign VATOZ21 has been flying continuously over the flotilla, monitoring activity only a few kilometers off the Cretan coast, Greek City Times reported. A second Turkish drone was also launched in the same area on Thursday, reinforcing Ankaras aerial presence. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement A Turkish frigate had been spotted, the report said. Notably, Turkey and Egypt recently conducted naval drills. Greeces Hellenic Coast Guard has been monitoring the flotilla as well, while Greek F-16 jets conducted flights near it, Greek City Times reported. This is the 'last stretch' Turkish media is closely following the progress of the flotilla. Ankara has been strongly supportive of the Palestinians and very anti-Israel over the past several years. Meanwhile, the flotillas organizers said this was their last stretch as they head toward Gaza from Greece. The last stretch is here, they said Sunday. After weeks at sea, the flotilla sails with the prayers of millions and the hopes of Gazas children. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The flotilla was 400 nautical miles from Gaza on Sunday. It would take at least three more days of sailing to reach the coast of Israel at its current pace. It changed course slightly to head toward the Egyptian Port of Alexandria. It was unclear whether it would stop in Egypt on the way to Gaza. If it continues at its present pace, it could take four days to reach the enclave, meaning it would arrive on Yom Kippur. If it stops in Egypt, however, this would add several more days to the trip. Moving slowly, the flotilla has been progressing at the speed of about four to five knots an hour. The U.S. Treasury Department sanctioned five individuals and one entity on Thursday for helping North Korea finance its weapons programs through arms sales to Myanmars military regime. The action targets overseas representatives of two UN-designated North Korean agencies who generate illicit revenue for Pyongyangs ballistic missile and nuclear weapons development. The sanctions disrupt a weapons pipeline between North Korea and Myanmars military junta, which has relied on airstrikes against civilian targets since seizing power in a 2021 coup. Treasury officials say cutting off this funding stream weakens North Koreas ability to develop weapons that threaten the United States and its allies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement North Koreas unlawful weapons programs are a direct threat to America and our allies, Under Secretary for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence John K. Hurley said in a statement. We will continue to dismantle the financial networks that sustain them. At the center of the sanctions is Royal Shune Lei Company Limited, a Burmese arms procurement firm. The company first brokered weapons deals with North Koreas primary arms dealer, Korea Mining Development Trading Corporation (KOMID), in 2022. Since late 2023, Royal Shune Lei employees have traveled to China for meetings with KOMID representatives. They coordinated sales of aerial bomb guidance kits, bombs, and airborne monitoring equipment for Myanmars air force. The Treasury designated Royal Shune Lei CEO Tin Myo Aung and employee Kyaw Thu Myo Myint for facilitating these transactions. The companys director, Aung Ko Ko Oo, also faces sanctions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Kim Yong Ju, deputy KOMID representative in Beijing, worked with the Burmese officials to arrange weapons sales. He helped coordinate weapons samples for testing before finalizing orders. The sanctions also target Nam Chol Ung, an intelligence officer representing North Koreas Reconnaissance General Bureau. Since 2013, Nam has operated multiple companies and restaurants across Laos and Thailand to launder money for Pyongyang. His network includes import-export companies that smuggle North Korean tobacco products throughout Southeast Asia. Nam has also forged trade contracts for importing goods into North Korea. Treasurys action blocks all U.S. property belonging to the designated individuals and entities. American citizens cannot conduct business with them, and foreign banks risk secondary sanctions for facilitating their transactions. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The sanctions come as Myanmars military continues aerial attacks on civilian infrastructure. Airstrikes have destroyed schools, religious sites, and hospitals, resulting in numerous civilian deaths since the 2021 coup. KOMID, also known as 221 General Bureau, serves as North Koreas principal exporter of ballistic missile components and conventional weapons. The Reconnaissance General Bureau orchestrates military and intelligence operations for the regime. Both agencies maintain offices worldwide, establishing front companies to disguise foreign currency earnings. These funds are then channeled back to support North Koreas weapons programs. Treasury emphasized that sanctions aim to change behavior, not punish indefinitely. The department provides a process for designated individuals to petition for removal from sanctions lists. Key developments on Sept. 27-28: 'Insidious tactics' Mass Russian missile and drone strike kills at least 4, injures over 70 in Kyiv, its surrounding region, Zaporizhzhia. Ukraine, US planning major arms deals, Zelensky says. Ukrainian HIMARS reportedly strike thermal power plant in Russia's Belgorod Oblast Trump to make 'final determination' on supplying Ukraine with Tomahawk missiles as Russia 'refuses' peace talks, Vance says Unidentified drones reportedly spotted in Denmark, Lithuania, Finland At least four people, including a 12-year-old girl, were killed and over 70 were injured in the latest overnight mass Russian missile and drone attack, Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko reported on Sept. 28. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The attack lasted for over 12 hours, and Russia launched almost 500 drones and over 40 missiles, according to President Volodymyr Zelensky. Kyiv and Zaporizhzhia have reported the heaviest damage from the attack thus far. Nearly 20 locations were damaged from the attack, including a five-story building that suffered from partial destruction, according to Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko. Seven districts had endured damage, the city's military administration said. At least four people have been killed in Kyiv, including a 12-year-old girl. At least 14 people were also reported injured. In the surrounding Kyiv Oblast, the regional military administration reported that 28 people were wounded, including three children. Four victims, among them a child, were hospitalized, and their conditions are "moderately severe," according to the local authorities. A nurse and a patient died due to the attack at the Institute of Cardiology, according to Klymenko. The southeastern city of Zaporizhzhia was also targeted by the Sept. 28 missile attack. Zaporizhzhia Oblast Governor Ivan Fedorov reported that at least 38 people have been injured, among them three children. The three children have been hospitalized and two of them are in serious condition, according to Fedorov one from mine exposion injuries and the second from carbon monoxide poisoning. Throughout the night, swarms of Shahed-style drones also threatened a number of Ukrainian regions. Explosions were reported in Kyiv, Kyiv Oblast, Zaporizhzhia, Khmelnytskyi Oblast, and Sumy. Five Russian Tu-95 bombers took off from Olenya airfield in Murmansk Oblast at approximately 1:45 a.m. local time, monitoring channels reported. At around 2:25 a.m., the Kyiv City Military Administration warned that Russia had launched MiG-31K bombers, prompting an aerial alert across the country. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Ukraine's Air Force then issued a warning at 3:52 a.m., saying Russia had likely launched Tu-95s from the Engels air base. A five-story building in the capital was partially destroyed and residential infrastructure has been damaged in multiple districts, Kyiv City Military Administration Head Tymur Tkachenko said. The attack also damaged non-residential buildings and parked cars. In Kyiv Oblast, fires broke out in several homes and buildings in districts outside the capital during the "mass enemy strike," regional authorities said. In Zaporizhzhia the regional capital of partially Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia Oblast in southeastern Ukraine the attack targeted the city's civilian infrastructure, regional Governor Ivan Fedorov reported. One missile struck a multistory building directly. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Nine houses and 14 high-rise buildings were damaged in total, Fedorov said. The attack also damaged non-residential buildings, including a school and the production facilities of an unspecified enterprise. "Insidious tactics, an inhuman thirst for human suffering," Regina Kharchenko, acting head of the Zaporizhzhia City Council, said the morning after the attack. "Yesterday's life still smolders in the windows someone's photographs, children's toys, books. People have suffered, and the city is counting its wounds again." Explosions were also reported in Ukraine's Khmelnytskyi Oblast. Governor Serhii Tiurin confirmed that air defenses had been active over the region during the attack, but said preliminary reports indicated no casualties. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Poland scrambled fighter jets in response to the mass attack, as it has done previously when Russian strikes threatened western Ukraine. During a mass attack on Sept. 10, Poland shot down multiple Russian drones that crossed the border and breached Polish airspace. Flight monitors reported that Poland on Sept. 28 closed the airspace over Lublin and Rseszow due to "unplanned military activity related to ensuring state security." Russia has intensified the scale of its aerial attacks on Ukraine throughout the spring and summer of 2025. Heading into the colder months, officials have warned Ukrainians to brace for a new wave of Russian mass attacks targeting the country's energy infrastructure. Earlier in September, Russia launched over 810 Shahed-type drones and 13 missiles in a record-breaking attack that struck the Cabinet of Ministers building in central Kyiv. Two nights later, Russia attacked again, striking Ukraine and violating Polish airspace. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The incident marked the first time a NATO member has destroyed Russian drones during the full-scale war against Ukraine. It was followed by a string of Russian airspace violations and suspicious drone incursions in NATO territory. Amid these escalating provocations, world leaders convened in New York for the high-level U.N. General Assembly, where Zelensky spoke with Trump. In an abrupt tonal shift, Trump declared after the meeting that Ukraine "is in a position to fight and win all of Ukraine back in its original form" with European support. Trump later lobbed criticism at Russian President Vladimir Putin for the ongoing attacks on Ukraine. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I'm very dissatisfied with what Russia is doing and what President Putin is doing," Trump told reporters on Sept. 25. "I haven't liked it at all. He's killing people for no reason whatsoever." Trump has still not imposed any new U.S. sanctions against Russia despite the mounting civilian death toll. Read also: Polish Embassy in Kyiv struck in Russias large-scale overnight attack Ukraine, US planning major arms deals, Zelensky says A Ukrainian delegation in the U.S. this fall will work to finalize agreements to purchase American weapons and export domestically produced drones, Zelensky said at a press briefing in Kyiv on Sept. 27. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The president's comments follow his recent visit to the U.S., where he met with Trump and held a series of talks with world leaders at the U.N. General Assembly. Ukraine is planning both a "Mega Deal" a major agreement on the purchase of American weapons and a "Drone Deal," to sell Ukrainian unmanned systems to the U.S., Zelensky said. "We have discussed the main things, agreed with the (U.S.) president, now we are moving on to practical implementation," Zelensky said. Kyiv has prepared a list of weapons it wants to buy from the U.S. totaling around $90 billion, Zelensky said. Kyiv is also interested in separate agreements for other types of weapons particularly long-range missiles. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Zelensky said he could not provide more details on such an agreement because it is "a very sensitive issue." The Telegraph reported on Sept. 26. that Zelensky asked Trump to provide Ukraine with long-range Tomahawk cruise missiles during their meeting at the U.N. The Tomahawk, with a range of up to 2,500 kilometers and a 450-kilogram (922 pounds) warhead, would significantly exceed the capabilities of any long-range system Ukraine has received from Western allies. Zelensky said the government is also readying a system of controlled exports of Ukrainian-made weapons to countries beyond the U.S. Under this system, Ukraine will export military equipment it holds in surplus and spend the profits on urgently needed weapons, such as interceptor drones. This system is designed to meet Ukraine's military needs, though the president acknowledged it might disappoint some defense companies. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "I am not sure that all of our businesses are satisfied they want to sell everything everywhere at once but of course our priority is replenishing the Ukrainian army," Zelensky said. "And that will be our priority until the end of the war in any case, therefore, exports will be controlled until the end of the war." Ukraine intends to make export deals with countries in the U.S., Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, Zelensky said, adding that proposals had already been received by several African nations and that Kyiv had already decided which country would be its first partner. More details will be made public "in the near future," Zelensky said. Zelensky also confirmed that Ukraine had received a Patriot air defense system from Israel that has already been operating for a month and said two additional Patriots are expected to arrive from Germany in the fall. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Zelensky first outlined Ukraine's proposal for $90 billion in U.S. weapons during a visit to Washington, D.C. in August, describing it as part of a package of postwar security guarantees. Previously the Financial Times reported that Kyiv had proposed buying $100 billion worth of American weapons, financed by its European partners. A month later, the president announced that Ukraine was initiating the controlled export of Ukrainian weapons, particularly naval drones. Ukraine's drone industry has exploded since the start of Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022, leading to the rise of over 200 drone companies. These companies have built cheap, adaptable systems that have reshaped modern warfare but Ukraine's production capacity has outpaced its financing. The export of Ukraine's domestic weapons is heavily restricted, requiring hard-to-obtain permits from the State Export Service. In May, Ukrainian defense manufacturers issued a public letter to Zelensky urging him to lift export restrictions on domestically produced military-grade equipment, particularly drones. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Read also: Drone scare halts flights at Amsterdams Schiphol as Zelensky says Russia probing Europes defenses Ukrainian HIMARS reportedly strike thermal power plant in Russia's Belgorod Oblast Ukrainian HIMARS rockets reportedly stuck a thermal power plant near the Russian city of Belgorod on Sept. 28, Russian Telegram media channels reported. Power outages were reported across Belgorod Oblast following the attack that struck one of the substations, Russian media reported. Belgorod Oblast Governor Vyacheslav Gladkov confirmed a strike on critical infrastructure as well as "significant power outages." No information on the extent of the damage was available. High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS), with a range of around 70 kilometers, allow Ukraine to target Russian forces on the other side of the front line far more accurately than they had previously. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Zelensky confirmed on Sept. 17 that Ukraine will receive Patriot HIMARS missiles as part of a U.S. weapons aid package financed by NATO allies. The Kyiv Independent cannot immediately verify details or weapons used in the attack. Ukraine's military has not yet commented on the strike. The attack comes as Kyiv has intensified attacks against Russian oil, gas, and energy infrastructure, a key source of Moscow's revenues helping to fuel its all-out invasion of Ukraine. Situated across the border from Kharkiv Oblast, Belgorod serves as a regular target of Ukrainian strikes. Kyiv's strikes on Russia's oil sector have severely disrupted fuel supplies and logistics for Moscow's armed forces, Ukraine's Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi said on Sept. 25. According to the Financial Times, 16 of Russia's 38 oil refineries have been struck by Ukrainian drones since August 2025. The disruptions have limited Russia's refining capacity by over 1 million barrels per day, the research group Energy Aspects told FT, dropping exports to below pre-war levels. Trump to make 'final determination' on supplying Ukraine with Tomahawk missiles as Russia 'refuses' peace talks, Vance says U.S. Vice President JD Vance confirmed on Sept. 28 that the U.S. is "looking at" providing Kyiv with Tomahawk missiles, as Moscow continues to refuse bilateral and trilateral peace talks brokered by President Donald Trump. "You asked this question about Tomahawks. It's something the president is going to make the final determination on. What the president is going to do is what's in the best interest for the United States of America," Vance told Fox News in an interview. "I know we're having conversations this very minute about the issue," Vance continued. Zelensky asked Trump to supply Kyiv with Tomahawk long-range cruise missiles during a meeting with the U.S. president on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly, the Telegraph reported on Sept. 26. Ukraine has repeatedly appealed to Washington for long-range strike capabilities throughout the war, but the United States has so far declined to provide such weapons. Zelensky told Trump that the advanced weapons system could help pressure Vladimir Putin into negotiations for a peace deal, according to multiple sources cited by the Telegraph. The Ukrainian leader later said Trump was open to the request, which, if granted, would give Ukraine the ability to strike targets deep inside Russia, including Moscow. Vance on Sept. 28 acknowledge frustration within the White House amid Moscow's reluctance to attend leader-level peace talks. "What we've seen over the last couple of weeks, the Russians have refused to sit down with any bilateral meetings with the Ukrainians. They've refused to sit down with any trilateral meetings where the president or some other member of the administration could sit down with the Russians and the Ukrainians." The comments come amid signs of a shift in Trump's approach to the war. Following his meeting with Zelensky on Sept. 23 in New York, Trump wrote on Truth Social that "Ukraine, with the support of the European Union, is in a position to fight and win all of Ukraine back in its original form." "The Russians are not gaining a lot. This war is terrible for their economy, and they have to ask themselves how many more people are they going to have to lose and how many more people are they going to have to kill for very little military advantage," the U.S. vice president added in his interview. "We hope the Russians actually wake up to reality on the ground," Vance concluded. In recent weeks, Trump has overseen a new NATO-financed program to supply U.S. weapons to Ukraine under the Prioritized Ukraine Requirements List (PURL) program, with initial aid packages including Patriot air defenses and HIMARS rocket systems. Read also: Moldova casts blame on Russia for attempts to disrupt pivotal parliamentary elections Unidentified drones reportedly spotted in Denmark, Lithuania, Finland Unidentified drones have been detected in the airspace of Denmark, Lithuania, and Finland, several media outlets reported on Sept. 27. The incidents come as Russian drones and military aircraft have increasingly entered NATO airspace, prompting heightened alert and readiness across the alliance. Recent violations have been reported in Estonia, Poland, and Romania. In Denmark, drones were spotted near several military facilities, including Karup Air Base, one of the country's key air force facilities, Danish DR reported on Sept. 27. The Danish Defense Command does not disclose where the incidents took place and how many drones are considered suspicious. Several units of the Danish Armed Forces were deployed to respond to the incidents. In Lithuania, three drones were spotted flying near Vilnius airport, causing delays to seven commercial flights, Lithuanian broadcaster LRT reported on Sept. 27. In Finland, last weekend, a drone flew over the Valajasoski power plant in Rovaniemi, Yle reported on Sept. 27. Law enforcement bodies in the region confirmed this information to Yle, but did not disclose any details due to ongoing investigations. Previously, in Denmark, the airspace above Aalborg Airport in northern Jutland was closed overnight on Sept. 26 after police also reported an unidentified drone, Danish broadcaster TV2 said. The closure lasted about an hour, with several flights canceled and two inbound planes diverted. This marked the third disruption at Aalborg Airport in less than a week. On Sept. 24, operations were suspended after drones were detected near a military base, prompting Copenhagen to consider invoking NATO's Article 4. Earlier, on Sept. 22, Copenhagen Airport, the busiest hub in northern Europe, also halted operations due to drone sightings. Norwegian authorities temporarily closed Oslo Airport under similar circumstances. Danish Defense Minister Troels Lund Poulsen said the origin of the drones remains unclear and that there is no evidence directly linking them to Russia. In response to the Danish drone incursions, NATO said on Sept. 27 that it was expanding its Baltic Sea operations with additional military assets, according to a statement emailed to Reuters. NATO will "conduct even more enhanced vigilance with new multi-domain assets in the Baltic Sea region," the statement read. The alliance plans to upgrade its Baltic Sentry mission to include new "intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance platforms and at least one air-defense frigate." The latest suspicious drone flights coincide with a notable rise in Russian violations of allied airspace. Three Russian MiG-31 jets entered Estonian airspace over the Gulf of Finland on Sept. 19, prompting Tallinn to request NATO consultations under Article 4. Poland shot down Russian drones during a mass strike on Ukraine on Sept. 10, marking the first time NATO engaged Russian assets over its territory since the full-scale invasion. Romania reported a similar violation on Sept. 13, scrambling F-16s after detecting a Russian drone. The alliance has reinforced defenses through its Eastern Sentry mission amid growing provocations. Read also: As Russia tests NATO, calls to close Ukraines skies have returned heres what that means Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent. Gender inequality in the economy is evident across Europe. It appears in many areas, including employment, labour participation, and pay. A key driver of this gap is unpaid work. In OECD countries, women do nearly twice as much unpaid work as men each day. In 23 European countries, women do on average 86% more unpaid work than men, a little less than double. More concretely, women spend 262 minutes per day on unpaid work, while men spend 141 minutes. This corresponds to a gap of 121 minutes , two hours each day. Gaps in unpaid work between women and men vary widely across European countries. Which countries show the highest and lowest gaps? What are the main reasons behind unpaid work? And why is the gap especially large in some countries? Gap is smallest in Sweden and largest in Turkey Among 23 European countries, the unpaid work gap between women and men ranges from 29% in Sweden to a massive 349% in Turkey. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In Sweden, women spend 220 minutes per day on unpaid work, compared with 171 minutes for men a difference of 49 minutes. Swedish women also record the lowest unpaid work time among all countries in the list. Nordic countries perform best in closing the gap Three other Nordic countries follow Sweden with the lowest unpaid work gaps: Denmark (31%), Norway (35%), and Finland (50%). After the outlier Turkey, where women do 3.5 times (349%) more unpaid work than men, the next highest gaps appear in Southern Europe: Portugal (242%), Greece (173%), and Italy (134%). Spain also ranks high, in seventh place, with a 98% gap, meaning women do almost twice as much unpaid work as men. The OECDs Gender Equality in a Changing World report finds that unpaid work acts as a barrier to paid work for some women, keeping them out of the labour market. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It is no coincidence that Turkey has the lowest labour participation rate in 2024 at 37%, compared with the EU average of 53%, according to the OECD. Italy follows with 42%, and Greece ranks fourth with 45%. These countries also report the highest gender gaps in unpaid work. Care responsibilities and social norms Dorothea Schmidt-Klau, chief of the employment, labour markets and youth branch at the ILO in Geneva, explained to Euronews Business why Turkey and Italy rank highest in Europe for the share of persons available to work but not seeking. Care responsibilities and social norms are two other drivers that play a role, especially in Turkey," she said. Related Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Limited access to affordable childcare and eldercare services, along with social attitudes regarding womens roles, reduce the ability of women to engage in active job search. As a result, she said the female participation rates here are among the lowest in OECD countries. Among Europes five largest economies, Italy and Spain perform the worst, while Germany shows the smallest gap at 61%, followed by France at 66% and the UK at 78%. Women exceed 5 hours unpaid work in 3 countries In Portugal (328 minutes), Italy (306 minutes) and Turkey (305), women do more than five hours unpaid work. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is also more than 3.5 hours even in Sweden, which has the lowest unpaid work time. France ranks second where women spend 224 minutes on unpaid work. Turkish men do the least unpaid work: just 68 minutes Not surprisingly, men spend the least time on unpaid work in the three countries with the widest gaps. Turkey is an outlier, where men dedicate only 68 minutes a day to unpaid work, followed by Greece with 95 minutes and Portugal with 96 minutes. Most unpaid work is routine housework In every country, for both women and men, routine housework makes up the largest share. In several countries, it accounts for more than 70% of daily unpaid time. Care for household members and shopping follow, and together the top three categories represent around 90% of all unpaid work, according to OECD. In Portugal, for example, women spend 253 of their 328 daily unpaid minutes on housework, which corresponds to 77%. In France it drops to 70%, and in Denmark to 60%. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Related How to reduce the gender gap The OECD highlights the role of norms and stereotypes in driving inequalities, noting that these are learned from an early age. The report calls on countries and the European Commission to take stronger action to narrow the gender gap in unpaid work. Some key recommendations below directly address the factors that sustain this gap. The United States has reversed its visa restrictions on Ghana as the west African nation emerges as a key deportation hub in President Donald Trump's immigration crackdown. While Accra maintains it has received nothing in return for taking in deportees, one political scientist told RFI an agreement to take in more west African deportees was the "only plausible explanation". Earlier this month, Ghanaian President John Mahama revealed that the country was accepting west Africans deported by the United States the fifth African nation to do so. US President Donald Trump has made so-called "third-country" deportations a hallmark of his anti-immigration crackdown, sending people to countries where they have no ties or family. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Accra has insisted it has received nothing in return for taking in the deportees, though Mahama acknowledged that the deal was struck as relations were "tightening" with Washington imposing tariffs as well as visa restrictions in recent months. "The US visa restrictions imposed on Ghana" have been "reversed", Ghanaian Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa said. In a post on X, Ablakwa said the "good news" was delivered by US officials on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly. In June, the United States announced restrictions on most visas for nationals from Cameroon, Ethiopia, Ghana and Nigeria, restricting them to three months and a single entry. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Ghanaians can now be eligible for five-year multiple entry visas and other enhanced consular privileges," Ablakwa said. South Sudan turns US deportations to its diplomatic advantage Migration deal? Ablakwa attributed the US turnabout to "months of negotiations" without providing futher details. At least 14 west Africans have been sent to Ghana since the beginning of September, though neither Accra nor Washington has made details of the arrangement public. For political analyst Bright Simons, honorary vice-president of the Ghanaian think tank Imani, the Trump administrations sudden change of course strongly suggests Ghana has agreed to take in further west African deportees. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement This is the only plausible explanation," Simons told RFI. "Ghana has made no announcement suggesting, for instance, a more favourable visa reciprocity policy towards the United States. The question is therefore: what prompted the US government to withdraw its restrictions? The only sensible answer is that Ghana offered something extra and in this case, it was agreeing to take in deportees from third countries. Simons underlines that Cameroon and Nigeria remain under Washingtons sanctions. Both countries were hit by the same visa restrictions in July and have not since concluded migration agreements with the United States. Uganda strikes deal with Washington over migrants deported from the US Alleged rights abuses All of the 14 west Africans Ghana has taken in had won protection from US immigration courts against being deported to their home nations, their lawyers have told RFI. At least four of them have been forwarded on to their country of origin. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement After weeks of detention in Ghana, allegedly under military guard and in poor conditions, six of the deportees were abruptly sent to Togo last weekend and left to fend for themselves, Samantha Hamilton, a lawyer for civil rights organisation (AAJC), that has filed a lawsuit in the US on behalf of the migrants, told RFI. Another plane able to carry 14 people has since arrived in Ghana, though it was unclear how many people were on it. Ghana has said it is accepting west Africans on humanitarian grounds and that the deal is not an "endorsement" of US immigration policy. The return to the previous system has come as a relief for many Ghanaians. In 2024, Ghana ranked fifth on the continent for US visa approvals, and second for student visas. (with AFP) WINDSOR LOCKS, Conn. (WTNH) 65 Veterans, including WTNHs Gil Simmons, gathered for a send-off at Bradley Airport Saturday morning for Honor Flight Connecticut, shedding light on those who serve. Veterans, their families and volunteers flew down to Washington D.C. to visit memorials and recognize the ultimate sacrifices made for our country. I dont know what to think. I feel honored but theres so many of us that did the same thing I did and you never hear of them probably, World War II Veteran Patsy Lombardo said. I feel honored I really do. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Lombardo was not the only World War II veteran to participate in this honorary event, another served in Korea and Vietnam as well. To go to the wall with the Vietnam veterans to spend time at World War II and Korean memorials with those veterans, its life changing and it started as a passion, and its now an obsession, Honor Flight Connecticut President Dan Sparks said. We love what we do and we love honoring veterans. Members of the United States Air Force, Coast Guard, Army and Navy were honored at the event. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTNH.com. Vice President JD Vance says Russia needs to "wake up" and come to the negotiating table with Ukraine, echoing President Donald Trump's shift in tone on the full-scale war. Vance's Sept. 28 comments came after Trump claimed Ukraine "is in a position to fight and WIN all of Ukraine back in its original form," marking a step away from the Republican administration's previous assertions that Ukraine would likely lose some territory in the U.S. effort to broker an end to the more than three-year-long war. "The Russians have got to wake up and accept reality here," Vance told Fox News Sunday. "A lot of people are dying. They don't have a lot to show for it." More: Russia pounds Kyiv, other regions in mass drone and missile attack Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Just a few hours prior to Vance's appearance, Russia launched one of the largest aerial assaults of the war, striking Kyiv and other parts of Ukraine early on Sunday. The attacks killed at least four people and injured dozens of others, Reuters reported. Large drone attacks from Russia have tested Ukraine's limited air defenses throughout 2025. The president's about-face on Ukraine's ability to win the war, and on the topic of support for NATO nations such as Poland that have had their airspace breached in recent weeks, came after a day of meetings with U.S. allies during the United Nations General Assembly gathering on Sept. 23. U.S. Vice President JD Vance sits next to Secretary of State Marco Rubio as they attend a meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy at the Oval Office of the White House, amid negotiations to end the Russian war in Ukraine, in Washington, D.C., U.S., August 18, 2025. Zelenskyy told Trump there was "good news" on the battlefield and thanked him for selling NATO weapons that are being transferred to Ukraine. Appearing on Fox, Vance said it was Russia that was now on its back foot. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "How many more people are they willing to lose? How many more people are they willing to kill for very little, if any, gain in the military advantage on the ground there?" the vice president said, adding: "I think the answer is, hopefully not that much, but certainly our attitude here is we're going to keep on working for peace, and we hope the Russians actually wake up to the reality on the ground." Contributing: Francesca Chambers and Zac Anderson, USA TODAY; Reuters. Kathryn Palmer is a politics reporter for USA TODAY. You can reach her at kapalmer@usatoday.com and on X @KathrynPlmr. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Vance warns Moscow on Ukraine war, 'Wake up and accept reality' Tony Blair, who was British prime minister during the 2003 United States-led invasion and occupation of Iraq based on false claims about weapons of mass destruction, and is regarded by many in the Arab world and in the United Kingdom as a war criminal, has helped develop day after plans for Israels war on Gaza. The highly divisive figure is envisaged in United States President Donald Trumps 21-point plan presented to Arab and Muslim leaders to become the de facto governor-general of the besieged and bombarded enclave after Hamas is pushed out, according to Israeli and Western media reports. Some reports say Blairs ultimate role is not finalised, but the outlines are clear. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Heres a look at Trumps plan, what we know about Blairs role, and what it would mean for everyone involved if it were to all go ahead. Whats the 21-point plan? After numerous attempts that have not ended the genocidal war on Gaza, Trump and his team have come up with a new proposal that also purports to leave the door open for the future formation of a sovereign Palestinian state something Israel has repeatedly rejected. The plan wants all 48 captives still held in Gaza to be released immediately, in exchange for allowing entry of humanitarian aid, freezing battle lines, and the release of a number of Palestinian prisoners from Israeli military jails. The plan would also see Hamas disarm, offer fighters who renounce violence amnesty, and allow others who refuse to leave Gaza. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Crucially, it specifies that no Palestinians will be forced to leave their territory, and says anyone who leaves voluntarily will be allowed to return to their homes. If true in practice, this would signal a U-turn for Trump, who shocked the world in February when he openly touted ethnic cleansing by musing about the US taking over Gaza and permanently moving out its more than two million residents, about half of them children. He also released a video generated through artificial intelligence to showcase his vision for the so-called Gaza Riviera. The new proposal prides itself on offering a credible pathway to Palestinian statehood, marking another departure as the Republican president has been reluctant to endorse the two-state solution amid a surge of Western nations doing so, such as the UK, France and Canada. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The US and Israel reportedly wish to keep the notorious GHF, the humanitarian organisation they founded to push aside the United Nations and other international aid agencies delivering aid to Palestinians on the ground. Many hundreds of famine-stricken people, including children, have been shot by Israeli soldiers and US mercenaries operating at GHF sites. Israeli figures and a US consulting firm, Boston Consulting Group (BCG), have been linked with the GHF and the Gaza Riviera plans. In a response to a UK parliamentary committee inquiry published in late July, BCG said an investigation it commissioned found that some of its US-based staff sidestepped its risk controls to do work related to GHF and to post-war reconstruction for the Palestinian enclave. Trumps plan to broker a grand bargain has been presented to the leaders of Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Jordan, Indonesia and Turkiye on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly (UNGA) in New York. But as the Israeli military continues to systematically destroy and seize Gaza City and starve Palestinians in Gaza while advancing with a vision to annex the occupied West Bank, the plan appears to be provisional at best. Neither Israel nor Hamas has officially commented on it. Where does Blair fit in? The former UK prime minister, who fervently backed then-US President George W Bush in invading Iraq, is reportedly involved through his Tony Blair Institute for Global Change, which claims it wants to turn bold ideas into reality. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Trumps plan reportedly considers appointing him as the head of a newly established entity called the Gaza International Transitional Authority (GITA), which would administer Gaza after Hamas is ousted for a transition period of up to several years. GITA would seek a UN mandate, something Arab states have emphasised they will require, and would also initially sideline the Palestinian Authority (PA) as Israel continues to say it will not allow the PA to have a future governance role. The PA is urged to engage in serious reforms, get a revised constitution and hold elections for a new president and parliament before taking over from GITA, which will oversee the reconstruction of the Palestinian enclave. An international stabilisation force, largely drawn from Arab and Muslim countries, would be deployed to provide security and train a new Palestinian security force in Gaza. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Prabowo Subianto, the president of Indonesia, the country with the largest Muslim population, told the UNGA he was ready to send in thousands of peacekeeping forces, and ended his speech with shalom. A demonstrator wearing a mask to impersonate Tony Blair holds bundles of fake money during a protest before the release of the John Chilcot report, which found the UK joined the Iraq invasion on flawed intelligence and without exhausting peaceful options, at the Queen Elizabeth II Centre in London, July 6, 2016 [Peter Nicholls/Reuters] Blair has not commented on the new proposal. In January 2024, when Israels Channel 12 reported that Blair met Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former war cabinet minister Benny Gantz in Israel in relation to a voluntary resettlement plan of Palestinians in Gaza, his institution said the report was a lie. Why is this hugely controversial? After serving as the UK prime minister for 10 years, when Blair resigned in 2007, he was immediately appointed as the Middle East envoy for the Quartet the UN, US, European Union, and Russia. His official remit was to support Palestinian institution-building, economic development, and to liaise on governance and security reforms. He formally stepped down from the role in mid-2015, but has continued projects through his institution. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement So, he has some experience in the region. However, the experience was not a happy one for most people in the region, especially the hundreds of thousands of Iraqis who were killed during the war, or the millions who were marked by the invasion that changed the face of the region. To this day, critics in the Middle East and the UK brand Blair a war criminal, and he remains a toxic figure in some quarters. Quartet Representative to the Middle East Tony Blair visits a UN-run school sheltering Palestinians whose houses were destroyed by Israeli shelling during a 50-day war in 2014, in Gaza City, February 15, 2015 [Suhaib Salem/Reuters] Palestinian commentators have also said Blair failed them as peace envoy despite the quintessential British role in the conflict stretching over a century. They have argued that while he oversaw economic projects during his tenure, he did little to halt illegal Israeli settlement expansion and settler violence, or advance Palestinian statehood, with some even accusing him of impeding statehood as a friend of Israel. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Blair continues to be a polarising figure in domestic British politics as well, as his popularity vastly plummeted following the Iraq invasion. His involvement in determining the future of Gaza has been met with shock and scepticism among some commentators. Once it was clear that Satan was fully occupied elsewhere Tony Blair was the obvious choice to govern Gaza for Trump and Netanyahu. George Galloway (@georgegalloway) September 26, 2025 But beyond Blair, the 21-point plan has been criticised online and in some media as a neocolonial takeover of Gaza with no actual guarantees that a competent Palestinian leadership will be allowed to govern in the future. The plan has been touted in Israeli media as a relatively better option compared with more extreme ideas floating around in Washington and Tel Aviv, particularly revolving around forcing as many Palestinians out of the enclave as Israel destroys the little infrastructure left in Gaza that supports their means of basic living, as it kills dozens of civilians daily. For its part, Israel has emphasised it will retain security control over Gaza regardless of any future plans. (Editor's note: This story was published on Sept. 27. Miguel Angel Garcia Medina died of his injuries on Sept. 30, according to LULAC, which represents the family.) DALLAS The last time Stephany Gauffeny spoke to her husband, she was encouraged by the excitement in his voice. He was coming home. Miguel Angel Garcia Medina, 31, was expected to be remanded to Immigration and Customs Enforcement from Tarrant County Jail in Arlington, Texas, over a DUI. But the couple hatched a plan that would keep them together even as the Trump administration stepped up deportation sweeps. Garcia started a visa process to stay in the United States permanently, had married Gauffeny and together they would raise four kids with a fifth baby on the way. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He was feeling happy," Gauffeny said in an interview with USA TODAY of the Sept. 23 phone call. "He knew he would end up with ICE but we had a plan to keep him in the U.S. That plan imploded the following day. On Sept. 24, Garcia had just been transported from Arlington to the Dallas ICE field office when a gunman opened fire on the building and the van with an 8 mm bolt-action rifle, killing one detainee and seriously injuring Garcia. Texas ICE field office shooting: Dallas ICE gunman wanted to cause 'terror'; victims still not ID'd Law enforcement personnel respond at the scene of a shooting at an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) field office in Dallas, Texas, September 24, 2025. Law enforcement personnel gather at the scene of a shooting at an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) field office in Dallas, Texas, September 24, 2025. Law enforcement personnel respond at the scene of a shooting at an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) field office in Dallas, Texas, September 24, 2025. A law enforcement officer walks near the scene of a shooting at an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) field office in Dallas, Texas, September 24, 2025. Mayor of Dallas Eric Johnson (R) speaks during a press conference following a shooting at a US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention facility in Dallas, Texas, on September 24, 2025. One person was killed and two wounded in a shooting on Wednesday at a US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention facility in the US city of Dallas, officials said. US Senator Ted Cruz, Republican from Texas speaks during a press conference following a shooting at a US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention facility in Dallas, Texas, on September 24, 2025. One person was killed and two wounded in a shooting on Wednesday at a US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detention facility in the US city of Dallas, officials said. Multiple people shot at Dallas ICE facility. See the response in Texas 1 of 6 Law enforcement personnel respond at the scene of a shooting at an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) field office in Dallas, Texas, September 24, 2025. Garcia, 31, was one of three detainees injured or killed that day. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The next time Gauffeny saw him, on Sept. 24, Garcia was in a hospital bed at Parkland Memorial Hospital in Dallas. His face was swollen. Tubes snaked down his throat. Staples closed a scar across his head. Dried blood dappled his face, neck and bedsheets. His arms were restrained to the bed and his feet were shackled together at the ankles. He was unconscious. It was just awful to see him like that, she said. 'Black hole of information': Victims shot by sniper at Dallas ICE facility identified Who are the victims in Dallas ICE field office shooting? A senior Department of Homeland Security official, speaking on the condition of anonymity, identified the other two victims as Jose Andres Bordones-Molina, of Venezuela; and Norlan Guzman-Fuentes, of El Salvador. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dallas County Medical Examiner's records indicate Guzman-Fuentes, 37, died; officials ruled his death a homicide. All three men did not have proper documentation to be in the country and had criminal histories ranging from traffic offenses to aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. Garcia was arrested for driving under the influence on Aug. 8 and had spent six weeks in Tarrant County Jail in Arlington, Texas. Local advocates have decried the lack of information on the migrant victims. An attendee arranges flowers and candles during a vigil, for the detainee that was killed and two others that were critically injured from a shooting on Wednesday at the Immigration and Customs Enforcement field office, outside the Parkland Hospital in Dallas, Texas, U.S., Sept. 25, 2025. Federal authorities said the suspect, Joshua Jahn, 29, was seen driving around the neighborhood near the facility at around 3 a.m. on Sept. 24 with a ladder perched on his truck. He then used the ladder to climb onto the roof a two-story building behind the facility, they said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement At around 6:30 a.m., Jahn allegedly began firing at the facility, hitting the building and sending rounds into a transport van filled with at least 10 detainees. Surveillance video obtained by local TV media shows detainees, their hands and feet shackled together, scrambling out of the van and into the facility during the barrage of gunfire. At a press conference on Sept. 25, federal officials said that evidence found linked to the gunman showed that Jahn was targeting ICE agents not the detainees before fatally shooting himself. Several ICE and ATF agents ran into the van under fire to retrieve the injured detainees, they said. They were willing to put their lives on the line to pull detainees out of the transport van to get them to safety, said Marcos Charles, ICEs acting executive associate director of Enforcement and Removal Operations. They are heroes. Miguel Angel Garcia Medina, 31, was one of the three detainees killed or wounded in the Sept. 24 attack at Dallas Immigration and Customs Enforcement field office shooting. Garcia, who is now in critical condition, is expecting his fifth child with his wife, Stephany Gauffeny. Garcia sought legal status with family in US Garcia was one of the struck detainees in the van, his hands and feet shackled together. Around eight bullets tore into him, hitting his shoulder, stomach, tailbone and neck, causing him to have a massive stroke. He was ultimately pulled from the van and rushed to Parkland Memorial Hospital. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Eric Cedillo, national legal advisor at the League of United Latin American Citizens, said, despite the DUI infraction, Garcia had been trying to get permanent residence the "right" way through immigration proceedings and was brought to the USA as a teen. Gauffeny, who is a U.S. citizen, had sponsored him for an I-130 visa, which was initially approved, he said. He had been here for 20 years doing all the right things, said Cedillo, who is advising the family. Suspect in shooting: What we know about Joshua Jahn, suspect in Dallas ICE attack He added: In any demographic, theres good and bad: He wasnt one of the bad ones. Its unfortunate what happened to him and the other victims in this incredibly tragic event. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Garcia was born in San Luis Potosi, Mexico, and was brought to the U.S. when he was 13, along with three brothers, settling in Arlington, Texas, Gauffeny said. The two met while freshmen at Sam Houston High School and began dating a few years after high school. They got married in 2016. Garcia helped raise two daughters Gauffeny was already raising and the pair had two more of their own in total: three girls, ages 8 to 14, and one 3-year-old boy, Miguel Angel Garcia Jr. Garcia was a stellar dad, Gauffeny said, spoiling the girls, attending daddy-daughter dances, helping with the 8-year-old daughter who is autistic and doting on Miguel, Jr. Hes a painter and contractor and the familys sole breadwinner. In May, they bought their first home: a modest three-bedroom, one-bathroom house. Garcia was elated that Gauffeny was pregnant with another boy, due in September, she said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement He wanted that second boy, she said. Miguel Angel Garcia Medina, 31, was critically wounded in the Sept. 24 attack at Dallas Immigration and Customs Enforcement field office shooting that left another detainee dead. A Mexican national, Garcia has lived most of his life in the United States. The DUI was his first offense and other charges of evading arrest were later dropped, Gauffeny said. They were hopeful that his ties to the community and growing family would keep him from being deported. Our expectation was that he was going to be allowed to stay here with us, she said. Shackled in hospital On the morning of Sept. 24, Gauffeny woke up to news of a shooting at the Dallas ICE field office. She knew he was scheduled to be transferred to ICE that morning but thought it too much of a coincidence for Garcia to be involved. When he didnt call, she grew worried. Then, at around 2 p.m., an ICE official called to inform her that Garcia had been shot at the facility and had been taken to Parkland. She rushed to the hospital with her sister and mother. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Gauffeny said she thought maybe her husband had just been shot in the arm and would be awake and recovering. She was shocked by the grisly scene that greeted her when she walked into the hospital room. She started to cry. Since then, Gauffeny said shes received scant details on what happened that day. Hospital staff filled her in on his injuries. Hes had at least one surgery and will likely need more. But the person lying in bed with the swollen face and the tubes and the arms and feet shackled to the bed didnt at all resemble the husband who, just recently, helped put their children to bed each night, she said. The family has started a GoFundMe page to help offset some of the medical costs. But its the image of his arms and feet shackled that has been hardest to shake, Gauffeny said. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Theyre not respecting him as a human being, she said. He cant even move. It really feels unfair the way hes being treated when hes been [the victim] of a hate crime. Follow Jervis on X: @MrRJervis. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Dallas ICE shooting: Wife says victim was shackled in hospital bed An estimated 5,000 people gathered Sept. 30, 1926, at 174-188 Main St. in Worcester to watch the famous Harry Houdini perform his famous copper-casket trick. Little did the crowd know it would be his final outdoor performance before his death, just one month later, on Halloween. Summerfields furniture store hosted the event, challenging the public to prove the casket is not as represented and invited the public to see the casket in its storefront windows along Main Street. During the spectacle, Houdini, who had begun his magic career some 30 years prior, promised to allow himself to be sealed in an airtight casket worth some $5,000 for more than one hour. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In an article published in The Evening Gazette on Sept. 30, 1926, the casket, described as made of steel and covered with a copper casting, is the one that Houdini says he will be buried in when he dies. It has a glass lid, which is screwed down on a rubber gasket. The building that housed Summerfield's still stands at 184 Main St. in Worcester The article goes on to describe the way in which Houdini communicated with the outside world during his time trapped within. Up until this time, Houdini was known to use a telephone system, but during this particular stunt he is described as blinking his eyes to communicate with his assistant, who was sometimes his wife, Bess. Then, after about 30 minutes, the article explained, moisture began forming on the glass, which allowed Houdini to write upon it. There is no mention of what the seemingly magical man wrote. At 184 Main St. in 2025, the building housing Summerfields remains, with only slight changes to the exterior over the last 100 years. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The Summerfields stunt was not Houdinis first in the city. In fact. just a couple of days before, on Sept. 28, he performed his well-known underwater test in the pool of the YMCA. Unlike the Summerfield display, this stunt was performed in front largely of physicians and scientific men, according to the Worcester Telegram. During the stunt, Houdini was lowered into the pool in a sealed casket, where he remained for one hour and 11 minutes. Several newspapers claimed the event was held after accusations Houdini used a telephone system between the underwater casket and the surface, to provide him with oxygen. During the stunt, in front of officials, researchers and the media, the magician proved his own claim that he relied upon controlled breathing to perform the feat rather than trickery such as a hidden source of air. Undated photo: This is a publicity photograph of Houdini used to promote shows or news articles about himself. Harry Houdini, who spent part of his childhood in Appleton, died on Halloween in 1926. Over at the YMCA on Main Street, Pam Suprenant, vice president of youth development and community services, could not contain her fandom as she told the tale involving its pool. "No one ever asks but I always tell," she said with a chuckle. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Suprenant explained that when she first started working at the third-oldest YMCA in the country 29 years ago, she was informed about a closet containing some of the physical history of the organization. At the pool's edge, the same pattern pictured in the old photographs of Houdini's stunt is still visible, although the "4 feet" marker has been removed and the pool, at one time the longest in the United States, had been cut in two. Harry wasn't the only Houdini in the magic field. His brother, Theo Hardeen, was also an escape artist. Both Houdini and Hardeen were stage names; the family had emigrated from Budapest, Hungary, with the surname Weiss. Before Houdini's death, the brothers would perform together, and upon his death, Houdini bestowed all of his magician equipment to Hardeen with the agreement that when Hardeen died, it would be incinerated. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Houdini died without an heir, but Hardeen had three children with his wife, Elsie Fozzard, including Gladys Ivy Hardeen, Theodore Hardeen Jr. and Harry Houdini Hardeen. When Hardeen died, the collection wasn't actually destroyed. Some of it was sold to his protege, Sidney Hollis Radner, a graduate of Worcester Academy; some was given to Bess, Houdini's widow, and handed down through the family, ending up in the hands of Houdini's great-nephew, John Hinson. Hinson, who lives in Worcester and works as a chef for a nursing home, comes from Houdini's wife's side of the family tree; his great-grandmother was Bess' sister. He grew up playing with a pair of Houdini's infamous handcuffs and listening to the tales of their love story, Houdini's performances and his playful personality. "I love being part of the family," Hinson said, as he opened a suitcase revealing hundreds of family photographs and letters. "When I was younger and people found out, it was sort of like 'Wanna bet?' and I won a lot of bets. When people find out we are related, they always want to know how he died." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hinson described how Houdini took the stage in Detriot despite having appendicitis and a 104-degree fever. "He collapsed on stage and was taken to the hospital and it was too late," Hinson said. "He didn't die in a cell like some of the movies depict. He did get punched, which didn't help the situation, but he was just so stubborn." When asked what his favorite family story was growing up, his reply was simply, "All of them." "According to my family, Bessie was supposed to go out with Hardeen, but Harry intervened and the rest was history," he said, adding the pair often performed together early on his career. "She was very petite, just 4-foot-11, and very beautiful." Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Hinson admits most of Houdini's things and family heirlooms have been sold or gifted, but he still has one pair of handcuffs and a large silver punch bowl gifted to the magician in 1913 for 30 years of performing. After sitting with Hinson, it's clear to see why his favorite stories are "all of them," from Houdini being the first to fly an airplane in Australia, to coining the stage name "Buster" for silent film star Buster Keaton, and even being taken "into custody" by the German police just so he could give them a private show. Even Hinson's dog, a 1.5-year-old terrier mix, is named Houdini. Here in Worcester, the magician's legacy is much more than a few stunts on Main Street. In the months before his death, Houdini had been working to debunk those who believed they could communicate with spirits or the dead. Worcester's Clark University had planned the first in a series of lectures around the topic of spiritualism and invited the magician to speak. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It began during a lunch date months earlier with professor Carl Murchison, chair of the Clark psychology department, and his friend, Harvard University professor William McDougall. They took a seat at the Bancroft Hotel and were joined by McDougalls good friend, Houdini. Murchison detailed that lunch and said the trio began talking about spirit mediums, psychic phenomena and other matters relating to psychical research. After Houdini and McDougall did not agree on some things, Murchison suggested the pair duke it out in a public symposium at Clark. Mr. Harry Houdini was to have been a speaker in this symposium, but his untimely death prevented, Murchison wrote of the series. The professor ended up working with Houdinis widow to provide information during the eight lectures. In the years following her husband's death, Bess held a seance in the hopes of communicating with her lost love, but after a decade of no answers, she moved on. Hinson explained seances still take place every year on the anniversary of his death, which he prefers not to attend. Instead, he says a prayer for his distant relative on Halloween night. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement "Next year, he'll be gone 100 years," Hinson said. "Blackstone, Dante, I mean who are they? They're magicians of course, but no one has ever heard of them. But Houdini, everyone knows Houdini, and he is still somewhat of a mystery 100 years later." T&G engagement editor Sarah Barnacle is getting to know Central Mass. by exploring some of the best places to go and things to do in Worcester County. If you have an idea or suggestion, please email sbarnacle@gannett.com. This article originally appeared on Telegram & Gazette: Worcester County Wonders: Houdini's trio of Worcester performances KUPWADA BREAKING: Two terrorists have been killed after an encounter in Kupwara in an operation by security forces near Loc, the terrorists were trying to infiltrate. Please tell that the terrorists trying to infiltrate were caught by the security forces. After which the security killed the terrorists. The Philippine Navy (PN) has deployed BRP Artemio Ricarte (PS37) to Bitung, Indonesia for this years Maritime Training Activity (MTA) PHILINDO 2025, a bilateral exercise with the Indonesian Navy. The deployment, led by Commodore Peter Jempsun De Guzman of the Naval Defense Command, departed Naval Station Felix Apolinario in Davao City on September 26. - Advertisement - MTA PHILINDO 2025, set from September 28 to October 4 in Bitung, a coastal city in the island of Sulawesi, marks the fourth iteration of the exercise, which is hosted this year by Indonesia. The training will feature joint drills in navigation, operations, and naval tactics, as well as subject matter expert exchanges. The PN said the exercise aims to boost interoperability, strengthen maritime security cooperation, and reinforce longstanding ties with its Indonesian counterpart. The Philippine Navys participation in MTA PHILINDO 2025 underscores its proactive role in advancing defense diplomacy, promoting interoperability, and fostering stronger regional partnerships for a secure and stable maritime domain, the PN said. President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. on Sunday together with his family members and supporters remembered the 36th death anniversary of the familys patriarch, former President Ferdinand Edralin Marcos, Sr. Mr. Marcos attended a memorial Mass at the Immaculate Conception Parish in his hometown Batac, Ilocos Norte. He was accompanied by close family, relatives and Marcos loyalists, who gathered to honor the legacy of his late father. In a brief message posted by the President on his social media pages, he reflected on his fathers enduring influence. Remembering my father, Apo Lakay, on his 36th death anniversary. His memory and his dreams remain with me always, he said. REMEMBERING APO LAKAY. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. attended a mass in remembrance of his fathers 36th death anniversary yesterday in Batac, Ilocos Norte. PBBM FB page Last September 11, the President commemorated his fathers 108th birth anniversary by calling on Filipinos to live lives defined by public service, sacrifice, and the defense of national dignityvalues which he said best honor the memory of the former leader. - Advertisement - The senior Marcos died at the age of 72 on September 28, 1989 at St. Francis Medical Center in Honolulu, Hawaii, due to various ailments including systemic lupus erythematosus and kidney disorder. People attend a Sunday Mass at the Immaculate Conception Parish in Batac, Ilocos Norte on September 28, 2025. (Courtesy: Presidential Communications Office) He was also reported to have heart and lung disease, pneumonia and bacterial infections. The Marcos family settled in Hawaii after the late strongman was ousted during the 1986 EDSA People Power Revolution, which in turn installed former President Corazon Aquino. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: CC0 Public Domain A new academic report from Abertay University and the University of the West of Scotland has highlighted challenges affecting physical activity in Scotland and calls for changes to the policy and funding landscape. The study, "Getting the inactive active: Barriers to physical activity and potential policy solutions," was authored by Dr. David Scott from Abertay's Department of Health, Sport and Wellbeing, and Dr. David Meir from the University of the West of Scotland as part of a fellowship with the Scottish Parliament Information Center (SPICe). Based on interviews with 23 stakeholders across government, sport, and public health, the report reveals deep-rooted inequalities and structural challenges that prevent many Scots from engaging in regular physical activity. Currently, 22% of adults in Scotland do less than 30 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity per weeka level linked to increased health risks. Public Health Scotland estimates that over 80% of the 3,000 annual deaths connected to inactivity occur within this group. The report highlights key challenges such as short-term funding cycles, a disconnect between national policy and local delivery, and inconsistent implementation of physical activity initiatives across Scotland's 32 local authorities. These structural issues are seen as major barriers to long-term planning and cultural change. The authors point to a gap between national ambitions and local realities, which undermines efforts to increase participation. To address these challenges, the report sets out a series of recommendations aimed at improving access and reducing inequality in sport and physical activity. Key proposals include increased investment in programs across the public and third sectors, alongside the development of a national strategy for community sport. Volunteers, who remain the backbone of delivery, would receive greater support to sustain and grow their contribution. A national social prescribing framework is also recommended to promote early intervention and prevention, integrating physical activity into health and social care pathways. The establishment of a robust evidence basewith consistent monitoring and evaluation across the sectoris seen as essential to track progress and inform future policy. Dr. David Scott said, "This report highlights the persistent structural challenges that continue to limit participation in physical activity across Scotlandfrom short-term funding cycles to the disconnect between national policy and local delivery. Addressing these issues requires more than good intentions; it demands coordinated, long-term action. "We hope the findings spark honest and constructive conversations that lead to meaningful reform. Real progress will depend on collaboration across government, sport, physical activity practitioners and academia to deliver inclusive, sustainable and impactful changeand to help Scotland become a more active nation." The report also calls for better utilization of the school estate. While there are strong local examples of schools acting as community hubs, the school estate remains underutilized from a national perspective. The report calls for clearer policy direction to build on existing successes and drive more consistent, widespread use of school facilities across the country. Further to this requirement, the report also highlights the importance of the current curriculum reform for creating opportunities to embed physical activity from early education and the importance of developing teacher knowledge, confidence and experience in delivering physical activity and physical education in primary schools. Dr. David Meir from the Division of Sport and Exercise at University of the West of Scotland said, "This research has confirmed that there are many individuals and organizations undertaking amazing work in sport, physical activity and education within Scotland. "There is also an understanding that when it comes to physical activity, Scotland has an excellent policy. In too many instances, however, opportunity is limited by the challenges of funding and resources required for successful policy enactment and sustained development within practice. "The recommendations within the report are extensive across both policy enactment and development. In accepting these recommendations, it is hoped that parties across the political landscape will develop specific and achievable objectives for sport and physical activity in their upcoming election manifestos." More information Getting the inactive active: Barriers to physical inactivity and potential policy solutions. digitalpublications.parliament 37b8ecc61#Appendix-A This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: Tobias Wilbur, University Communications Chagas' disease, also known as the "kissing bug disease," is classified as endemic in 21 countries in the Americas. The United States is not one of those countries. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says it should be. Citing evidence, CDC officials said Chagas' disease is consistently occurring in eight states and by reclassifying it, "The United States could improve surveillance, research and public health responses." Two University of Virginia experts are co-authors of the Chagas' disease chapter in the Merck Manual, one of the world's most widely used and researched medical references. Infectious diseases expert Dr. William Petri and Chelsea Marie Braun, an associate professor of medicine, explain the disease, why it is spreading in the United States and how to protect yourself from becoming infected. What is Chagas' disease? Petri: It is a parasite transmitted from kissing bugs, which are triatome bugs. They fly in duos, almost like they're kissing when they're flying, so that's how you'll recognize them. These kissing bugs, from global warming, used to be just in the far south of the U.S., like Florida and Texas, and now they're making their way up to Virginia. So, there's this potential that someone in Virginia could become infected with Chagas' disease through these kissing bugs, but I'd say that that's very rare. How do people contract Chagas' disease? Petri: When it bites you, the kissing bug's feces is where the parasite is. So, it deposits that on your skin and you itch the bite and then you could touch your eye and you inadvertently inoculate the parasite into your eye. You get edema around your eye and it almost looks like a black eye. That's about the only way you can really recognize the initial infection, because otherwise there's no symptoms at all. Where has the disease surfaced in the United States? Braun: It's actually been identified in 32 states. The states where we believe there's evidence for local infection are California, Arizona, Tennessee, Louisiana, Missouri, Mississippi and Arkansas, and then Texas. Texas is by far the biggest one, because of that big border with Mexico. What is the best way to avoid contracting Chagas' disease? Petri: Avoid the kissing bugs. Part of that is being able to live in a well-constructed home where you don't have insects in your house. Or if you do get insects, get an exterminator to fix that problem. How many people in the United States are estimated to be infected? Braun: We know there's about 300,000 people with Chagas' disease in the U.S. The vast majority of those have acquired it in an endemic country somewhere else in the Americas and have immigrated to the U.S., but now we're finding increasing evidence of local infections of people actually being infected in the U.S. We think this is probably for a variety of reasons. Probably, one is increased screening. The geographic range of the kissing bug is thought to be impacted by climate and may be increasing. And this increased surveillance, I think, has highlighted that this is an infection that we need to be paying attention to. Do you think people in the United States should be afraid of contracting the disease? Braun: It's really low prevalence. I think it's a bigger concern for veterinary disease. A lot of dogs in Texas have Chagas' disease. We don't really know how dogs are infected. It's thought maybe it's more of the oral route. People who spend a lot of time outdoors, in woodsheds, in these endemic statesthose are known risk factors. But, generally speaking, I think it's pretty low risk. Petri: Where the infection becomes important is years later; it can infect the heart most commonly. It's such a rare infection, and this is a relatively rare complication. But if it gets in the heart, it can cause conduction system abnormalities. The other complication is it can get into your intestines and affect the ability of your esophagus and intestines to contract normally, so that you can process food. Those are the two chronic complications of Chagas' diseaseheart and gut. This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain Singing can improve the quality of life of people with lung disease and help reduce their symptoms, according to a gold-standard randomized-controlled trial presented at the European Respiratory Society Congress in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. The study was presented by Professor Natasha Smallwood from Monash University, Melbourne, Australia. Professor Smallwood told the Congress: "Chronic breathlessness is a common and highly distressing symptom for people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and interstitial lung disease. Yet there is a lack of safe, effective, and acceptable treatment options for managing this symptom. "Group singing is increasingly used to manage symptoms and improve quality of life for people with neurological, mental health, and respiratory conditions, but we need more evidence to prove that this is beneficial, especially for people with interstitial lung disease." Interstitial lung disease (ILD) is a general term for a large group of conditions that cause progressive scarring and inflammation of the lung tissue, affecting hundreds of thousands of people around the world. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a serious lung condition affecting around 400 million people worldwide. The SINFONIA study saw patients take part in a 90-minute online group singing session delivered once a week for 12 weeks over Zoom. The content of the SINFONIA sessions was developed and delivered by a registered music therapist and included dedicated time for warmups, breathing exercises, song singing, and social check-ins to foster group connection. The program was delivered online to make it as easy as possible to take part, and patients were loaned iPads and given free data plans to help reduce barriers to participation. The group sang songs such as "Can't Help Falling In Love," "Let It Be," and "Pack Up Your Troubles." Of the 101 participants, 50 were allocated to the singing sessions and 51 to a group who were given usual care (for example, smoking cessation, respiratory vaccines, inhaler therapy, self-management education, and anti-fibrotic medications). Sixty-four of the patients had chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and 37 had interstitial lung disease (ILD). Patients completed a questionnaire called the SF-36, which records their quality of life across eight subdomains (including pain, social functional, general health and fatigue). These domains are rated from 0 (worst quality of life) to 100 (best quality of life) and then averaged to give a total score. SF-36 was 7.4 points higher in the singing group compared to the control group. Professor Smallwood explained: "Compared to usual care, taking part in the SINFONIA singing program led to improved quality of life for people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or interstitial lung disease with chronic breathlessness. These effects were most pronounced among people who attended at least 8 of the 12 sessions. "We saw the greatest improvements in the domains that measured limitations due to physical health or emotional problems," she adds. There was also some evidence to suggest that women, people with anxiety or depression, and those who have not previously completed pulmonary rehabilitation experienced the greatest improvements in quality of life as a result of taking part in the online group singing program. "The way in which group singing improves quality of life remains unclear and may vary for different participants," Professor Smallwood added. "But it could be due to better control of breathing, social connection, or mood improvements." Dr. Apostolos Bossios, Head of the European Respiratory Society's expert group on airway diseases, asthma, COPD and chronic cough, based at the at Karolinska Institutet, Sweden, who was not involved in the research said, "People with COPD and ILD suffer with long-term breathing difficulties, and this can severely restrict their day to day lives. These conditions cannot be cured, so we need better strategies to help people live happier, healthier lives. "The world-first SINFONIA study adds to a growing body of evidence that supports using non-medication-based approaches for managing challenging conditions. "By better understanding how group singing can be incorporated in existing health care services, we will be able to make a difference in the lives of patients with lung disease such as COPD and ILD." More information Abstract no: RCT2291 "The SINFONIA study: a phase III randomised controlled trial of an online group singing intervention for people with COPD or ILD.", by Natasha Smallwood et al; Presented in session, "ALERT 2: infections, lung cancer and respiratory symptoms management" at 15.30-17.00 CEST on Sunday 28 September 2025. k4.ersnet.org/prod/v2/Front/Pr ?e=685&session=19604 Key medical concepts COPD Interstitial Lung Diseases Provided by European Respiratory Society When Nizamuddin Amer ducked into a modest cafe in Chiplun to escape the midday heat, he did not expect a lesson in Maharashtras readiness for artificial intelligence. Over cups of cutting chai, a group of college students told him they used AIby which they meant typing questions into ChatGPT as if it were Google. They had never been taught what a structured prompt was or how to ask a model to write, code, or reason. In their town, the internet is available, devices are common, but AI remains an idea, a distant tool rather than a skill they can wield. Prompt engineering is going to be what typing was twenty years ago, says Amer. But most schools dont teach it, and even where students have access, the lessons are limited. Powai-based Amer runs WisdomQuant, which builds programmes to equip the student community and working professionals with digital and AI literacy. He has collaborated with Tamil Nadus Naan Mudhalvan initiative to train high-schoolers and college students in computational thinking and AI skills. Even high schoolers can grasp prompt engineering if you explain it properly, he says. The barrier isnt abilityits systematic exposure or rather the lack of it. Amers encounter in Chiplun captures the central paradox of Maharashtras AI moment: where grassroots curiosity meets megaprojects and megabudgets. In Davos in January the state signed 54 memoranda of understanding totaling 15.70 lakh crore; it approved a 500-crore MahaAgri-AI policy; and it unveiled Shakti Cloud, billed as Indias largest sovereign GPU cluster. A 16-member task forcedrawn from Google, Microsoft, Mahindra and academiahas submitted a framework for a state AI policy aligned to the IndiaAI Mission. The playbook includes an AI & Future Technologies University Centre of Excellence, a Maha Hub to incubate startups, and a Section-8 company, MahaAI, to steward sovereign datasets. But announcements are not the same as readiness. The real question is whether these top-down projects translate into classrooms where teachers can use AI, into farms where advisories are trusted, and into small factories that adopt automation without losing livelihoods. From e-governance to i-governance Ashish Shelar, Maharashtras Minister for Information Technology, insists the state is on a war-footing. For him, the announcements over the past eight months are part of a coherent, interlocking strategy. Maharashtra has done extensive groundwork to accelerate its AI revolution, he tells Mirror. The states strategy rests on three foundational pillars: AI, Global Capability Centres (GCCs), and cybersecurity. The states AI push will include rewriting the playbook of governance. We need to go from electronic governance to intelligent governance. And we need a workforce that understands this correctly. Security, Shelar says, will be co-equal with adoption. A Cybersecurity Task Forcebeing designed with input from central agencieswill focus on resilience, crime prevention and citizen awareness. The tsunami of cybercrime must be addressed through government, industry, and citizen partnerships, he adds. Those pledges are important. But at ground level the friction is simple and practical: a teacher with a smartphone and no training; a police dashboard that flashes an AI alert with no clear explanation for a citizen. Policy only matters if the state builds the local capacity to use it. Besides, as city-based impact investor Sanjay Juneja points out, Policy must go beyond ambition. Without clear rules on privacy, bias, and accountability, AI risks becoming another pilot-heavy space rather than a responsible ecosystem. A corridor of compute On paper, Maharashtra is in a formidable position. Mumbai and Pune already anchor one of Indias densest concentrations of finance, technology and data infrastructure. Private estimates suggest the state hosts some 730 Global Capability Centres (GCCs), which employ roughly 400,000 people in these two cities alone. Vikram Ahuja, co-founder, ANSR, which helps global companies set up GCCs, says Maharashtra ranks third nationally in GCC numbers after Karnataka and Telangana. When you look at the broader AI pool of talentincluding core AI, data engineering, cybersecurity, and related skillsabout 14% of Indias overall talent is currently in Maharashtra, he explains. That concentration helps explain why MumbaiPune remains the immediate magnet for AI work. Umesh Chhazzed, founder of Anlage Infotech, which helped establish the Enfabrica GCC in Hyderabad, reinforces the logic: The locations of GCCs are driven almost entirely by talent availability, not geography. His firm, which has offices in Prabhadevi and Seepz, Andheri (E), has guided several global enterprises in setting up centres tailored to the local skills market. Enfabrica chose Hyderabad for its strength in VLSI, he says, referring to Very Large-Scale Integration, the process of creating a single, compact electronic chip by integrating thousands or millions of transistors and other electronic components onto one small piece of silicon. It was this and embedded engineering. Voice-based GCCs (essentially for customer support and service operations where teams interact with clients or customers over phone calls) often set up in Gurgaon or Chandigarh first; automotive in Pune; embedded systems in Hyderabad and Bangalore. When specialised skills are scarce, companies hire adjacent talent and invest in gap-skilling. Talent costs typically account for 6075% of total expenses for GCCs, Umesh says. For large centres employing thousands, balancing cost and quality means drawing and developing talent from multiple sources. While data centres and 5G are expanding rapidly around MumbaiPune, Juneja cautions that rural Maharashtrawhere AI could most transform agriculture and public servicesstill struggles with patchy connectivity and unreliable data. This uneven landscape explains why, even as smaller cities like Nagpur or Nashik attract GCC-linked offices for softer reasons such as family ties or local incentives, large-scale AI workloads continue to gravitate toward ecosystems with deep, AI-ready talent and robust infrastructure. Infrastructure: Power, pipes, and proximity Maharashtras advantage in data infrastructure is also clear. MumbaiNavi Mumbai already hosts more than 60% of Indias data centre capacity, and the state is aggressively expanding AI infrastructure through Shakti Cloud and public-private partnerships. MumbaiNavi Mumbai is a DE-CIX interconnection hub, making it one of the best places in India to run latency-sensitive, network-heavy AI proof-of-concepts and production workloads, says Chhazzed. Think of DE-CIX as a highway junction for the internet: data moves directly between networks instead of taking long detours. For AI applications that demand instant responsesreal-time analytics, tutoring appsthis direct connectivity cuts latency, making systems faster and more reliable. But low-latency networks alone arent enough. Companies set up AI operations where power is cheap, reliable and predictable, he explains. Thats why places like the Netherlands have an edgetheir naturally cool climate lowers electricity costs for running and cooling vast server farms. To compete, Chhazzed argues, Maharashtra must pair its network strengths with aggressive cost advantages. Combine Mumbais global top-tier ranking for under-construction data-centre capacitycurrently ahead of London and Dublinwith a clear policy promise: the lowest delivered dollar per kilowatt-hour globally for AI-ready data centres. That, he says, is what could make Maharashtra a global least-cost location for AI racksthe specialised server equipment that powers AI. Thats not all. The cost of real estate is definitely a challenge in Mumbai, particularly in the established hubs, says Ahuja. Availability of inventory is difficult because Mumbai as a city is largely built out already. Pune has the opposite issueless inventory and more demand. Interestingly, while Mumbai tends to be 10% to 40% higher in real estate costs compared to other cities, Ahuja notes this gets balanced when you consider the overall operational ecosystem. And this is a crucial point: these GCCshundreds of them in Mumbai and Punenow run cloud, analytics, and AI workloads for global companies. For these AI operations, having the right people nearbyengineers, data specialists, and AI practitionersis often more decisive than small differences in electricity or rent. Infrastructure sets the stage, but talent determines whether AI actually delivers at scale. Scaling talent the real AI challenge While GCCs in Mumbai and Pune attract and upskill engineers, this talent rarely spreads across Maharashtra. The government cannot rely on private companies to train teachers, farmers, or local developers. Without deliberate policies, incentives, and training programmes, AI risks remaining concentrated in corporate hubs. Maharashtra already faces a stark supply-demand gap. An Atlassian study in 2025 found that 77% of Indian knowledge workers use AI dailyyet recruiters estimate only one GenAI-ready engineer exists for every ten openings. Veteran tech leader KS Vishwanathan (KSV) frames the scale of global demand: Theres huge demand for AI professionals40,00050,000 immediately for data scientists, data engineers, and analytics roles. India must produce at least 100,000 AI professionals annually, plus another 250,000 in adjacent fields like embedded systems, AI-enabled cybersecurity, and domain-specific roles. Enterprises worldwide are scouring for talent, but they arent finding it at scale. Affordability and mobility are major hurdles, he says. Yet Bengaluru alone has as many AI professionals as entire regions in South America, Eastern Europe, or Southeast Asia. If India invests in AI, it can become the primary hub supplying the workforce global corporations are seeking. KSV stresses this is not just about numbers: AI talent at scale requires expertise in data analysis, problem solving, data structures, and communication, along with skills in machine learning, MLOps, governance, and domain-specific expertise. While Karnataka has built its ecosystem around broad tech leadership, Maharashtra, he says, can specialise in financial-AI, leveraging Mumbai and Punes BFSI ecosystem. By focusing on this niche, the nation can attract global business and build a complementary AI ecosystem. Theres a big opportunity, he says. Once SMEs digitise, theyll generate data requiring AI to improve efficiency, customer experiences, and productivity. Maharashtra needs a technology anchora think tank or institution to champion a state AI roadmap, much like Nandan Nilekani and NR Narayana Murthi have done for Karnataka. Structural differences do exist, he concedes: Karnataka has a dedicated IT/BT department; Maharashtra folds IT into industries and commerce. Industry will lead, but state ownership and vision would accelerate things, KSV adds. He believes that industry will drive AI adoption in Maharashtra, but state vision can accelerate things. Tech roles themselves will evolve: lower-end positions may be automated or concentrated in smaller cities, while higher-end AI roles remain in major centres. In Maharashtra, this means Mumbai and Pune would anchor AI operations, but across India, tier-2 and tier-3 citiesCoimbatore, Indore, Lucknow, Bhubaneswarcould host specialised AI functions if developers and industry commit to building them. KSVs vision is national: a hub-and-spoke model where major centres lead, and smaller cities contribute key functions. With such deliberate planning, the benefits of this AI revolutionjobs, expertise, and servicescan radiate outward without needing every city to become a full-scale AI centre. Governance: The thin edge of trust Maharashtras ability to regulate, audit, and explain AI may then be the single biggest factor in whether adoption succeeds or stalls. Dnyaneshwar Kamble, a technologist-lawyer and chair of the Maharashtra chapter of the Association for the Advancement of Artificial Intelligence (AAAI), says the state must run on two tracks. Track one is adoption: building skills, tools, and labs. Track two is governance: frameworks that address bias, safety, and liability. AI still makes mistakes, and nobody wants to carry the liability. Thats why human-in-the-loop is essentialmeaning a person must review AI decisions, especially in critical areas like policing or welfare. During this years Ganpati immersions, the Mumbai Police used AI-enabled cameras to track crowds, flagging 15 accused in real time from a database of 12,000 past offenders. AI helped us anticipate crowd pressure points and manage bandobast better than before, Joint CP (Law & Order) Satyanarayan Chowdhary said. AI entrepreneur Sandeep Khuperkar, CEO of Data Science Wizards, however, sees these pilots and proofs of concept as a small first step; scaling requires AI-native infrastructure, robust platforms, governance frameworks, and leadership that embeds AI into the core of business rather than treating it as a sidecar, he says. Maharashtra has strong talent and startups, but what we need is an ecosystem that moves AI from experiments into production. Umang Mehta, founder of the WAIG Foundation, which advises companies on responsible AI, has other concerns about rushed deployment. No one is truly AI-ready yet. Theres hype-driven adoption without risk literacyeven cybersecurity teams often dont fully grasp how AI changes their threat model. The last mile challenge Maharashtras early use cases are visible, but converting pilots into systems remains the challenge. In healthcare, Mumbai University reports 90% accuracy on PCOS prediction models and 97% accuracy on breast-cancer detection from mammography. In agriculture, the MahaAgri-AI policy aims to modernise crop forecasting and pest detection. But a farmers voice captures both hope and warning. Announcements, sanctioning of funds, and plansare these enough? asks Satish Kubal, a sugarcane farmer from Kolhapur. The real test will be ensuring that every last person on the ground is educated in this. Khuperkar frames the scale-up problem: pilots are necessary to test and learn, but without a robust ecosystemplatforms, products, services, infrastructure, governancethey dont convert into systems. As Amer adds, even when tools exist, capability gaps remain. AI can be a writing coach, a study coach, a translation and pronunciation tutor in Marathi for a five-year-old. But unless you train teachers first and instrument the classroom, you wont see lift. The digital divide is real, Juneja adds. Small businesses, government departments, and rural communities need not just tools but also training and trust if AI is to work beyond corporate hubs. The readiness ledger To ask Is Maharashtra ready? is, thus, to invite an honest ledger of deficits. Three loom largest: Infrastructure and cost outside the core: Compute, connectivity, and power are still concentrated where land is expensive and electricity is dear. Shakti Cloud in Navi Mumbai may be the sovereign GPU showcase, but the rural periphery remains patchy. As Ahuja notes, The differentiator will be how fast Maharashtra can convert MoUs into productive sprintsand how it competes on total cost. Talent density and diffusion: While Maharashtra has islands of excellence, the centre of gravity for AI remains Bengaluru. Without coordination mechanisms, distributed pilots lack momentum. The real levers for change are teacher training, low-bandwidth content, and vernacular user interfaces that will decide whether a town like Chiplun looks like Kalyani Nagar in five years. Governance that citizens trust: Maharashtras deployments are outpacing the guardrails most experts consider essential. Scale skills and safeguards in parallel and publish transparency artifactsor risk losing public trust when systems make consequential errors. Maharashtras share of Indias digital economyabout $8085 billion of roughly $600 billionand its $1 trillion GSDP target by 2030 make AI not optional but essential. As KSV puts it, Enterprises across the world are looking to India for AI talent at scale. The question is whether Maharashtra can present a unified plan that translates its corporate depth into AI leadership. The state is only beginning to write its AI story. It can lay the groundworkscaling infrastructure, widening access beyond MumbaiPune, building trust frameworks, and training teachers to prepare a generation that works alongside machines. But ambition alone wont make it AI-ready. As Juneja cautions, Ambition is not the same as readiness. Maharashtras bet will pay off only if investment in infrastructure, people, and trust reaches far beyond Mumbai and Pune. The true measure of this revolution wont be the scale of announcements in Davos or glossy press releases. It will be seen in Chiplun classrooms where students learn with tools that adapt to their pace, in Kolhapur fields where farmers receive timely alerts to protect crops from pests or erratic weather, and on city streets where services anticipate needs before problems arise. It will be when AI stops being an idea and begins to shape everyday life. For more than three decades, VK Tripathi, a professor emeritus at the Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, has carried the message of non-violence and harmony. The 77-year-old was in Mumbai on a two-day visit to raise awareness of the genocide in Gaza carried out by Israel. Excerpts: When did you decide to dedicate yourself to social justice and harmony? The Bhagalpur riots of 1989 shook me. At that time, I was on leave from IIT Delhi and working at the University of Maryland in the US. Reading about the violence in The New York Times and later in Washington, DC, deeply pained me. When I returned briefly to India, the Ram Temple movement was in full swing, driven not by faith, but by hatred and politics. I realised that Hindus, Muslims, Dalits we are interdependent. If we fight, we cannot survive. The police or state machinery is never on the side of the people; only harmony among masses gives security. On January 6, 1990, I organised a meeting of non-resident Indians in Maryland. Thirty-six people joined and we launched a signature campaign against communal hatred. That was the moment I resolved that every evening, weekend, and holiday of mine would go to this work. In an atmosphere of rising polarisation, how do you adapt non-violence and dialogue as tools of resistance? I have never trusted arms, they are the states instruments. People must rely on non-violence, even if it means sacrifice, jail or death. Hatred in society is deliberately fuelled by elites, big businesses, politicians because sectarianism serves their interests. To counter that, you must go directly to the people. I cant intimidate or shout down the poor. I must win their trust. Pamphlets, one-on-one talks, small meetings these build confidence. Your fast at Rajghat for Gaza was disrupted by police. How do you cope with hostility or suppression, and what do you say to those who ask, Why do you care so much about Gaza? That day it rained. Only 10 people joined me at Rajghat, others observed fasts from home. I was standing outside Gandhi Samadhi with small posters, giving flyers to visitors. Just before winding up, two policemen came, removed my posters, and asked, Why do you care for Gaza? My answer was simple: If you are a human being, you cannot tie your spirit to a boundary. Human spirit embraces the sky and the earth. Whether it is the agony of Indian farmers, or Palestinians facing starvation, or Israelis mourning their dead, we must feel concern. To be human is to feel and absorb others pain, not hurt them. You have spent decades walking through neighbourhoods in Delhi and other parts of the country, distributing pamphlets, talking to riot survivors. What shifts in public attitudes have you observed? I have gone to Gujarat, Assam, UP and even Haryana to sites of violence. Most survivors, even Muslims who lost family, dont harbour hatred for Hindus. Take Sakina, the widow of Sabir Malik who was lynched in 2024 in Charkhi in Dadri district. When I visited her home in West Bengal, she cooked hot rotis for me like a family member. That simple act gave me immense strength. It reaffirmed my faith that ordinary people, even after suffering unspeakable violence, still value humanity above revenge. Given Indias persistent social cleavages of religion, caste and class, what practices can help citizens resist hate and build solidarity? Religion has been hijacked by sectarian leaders. But most Indians dont go to grand temples, they pray at small shrines, under trees, in modest mosques. Dalits, too, have grievances, not just with upper castes but with governments that neglect them. The way forward is to build affinity between community leaders, address education gaps, and create spaces where Hindu, Muslim, Dalit boys and girls study together. In one Muslim school where the high-school pass rate was abysmal, we volunteered for maths classes. Within a year, results improved dramatically. Shared learning and shared struggles bind people far more deeply than slogans. The Indian plastics pipes industry weathered multiple headwinds in FY25, grappling with subdued infrastructure spending, liquidity challenges, and volatile PVC prices, according to a recent JM Financial report. The report highlights that the sector, traditionally fragmented and agriculture-focused, has steadily shifted towards a more organised ecosystem catering to water supply, sanitation, plumbing, and industrial applications. Despite the challenges in FY25, the industry expects near-term support from channel restocking and stabilising PVC prices, which reached around INR 79 per kg in September 2025. PVC prices, a critical pass-through cost for pipe manufacturers, have seen significant fluctuations over the past few years. " On the global front, sluggish construction activity in China and developed markets suppressed demand, while a supply glut from major exporters (China, South Korea, Taiwan) led to aggressive dumping at lower prices. Historically, PVC prices have grown at a ~2 per cent CAGR over 25 years, but the segment saw a ~4 per cent CAGR decline over FY20-25. Over the past 4-5 months, prices have shown signs of recovery, increasing by ~INR 7/kg to reach ~INR 79/kg in Sep'25, although levels remain well below FY22 peaks," the report said. Looking ahead, structural demand drivers remain strong. Government initiatives such as the Jal Jeevan Mission, Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, and Housing for All, alongside rising agricultural and replacement demand, are likely to accelerate the adoption of plastic piping systems. The report estimates India's plastic piping market at around INR 600-650 billion, projecting a growth rate of 10-12 per cent CAGR over FY25-30. "Stabilising PVC prices should restore distributor confidence, reduce inventory-related challenges, and support margin recovery for organised players," the JM Financial report noted. Potential implementation of Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) quality norms for PVC imports, likely by December 2025, is expected to further protect domestic players from low-quality imports and enhance pricing power. (ANI) Telangana is looking to play a bigger role in India's semiconductor journey, with the state government emphasising its focus on moving from chip design talent to actual manufacturing, said Sridhar Babu Duddilla, Minister of IT of Telangana. Speaking to ANI on the sidelines of the T-CHIP (Technology Chip Innovation Program) Semicon Constitution Summit in Hyderabad, Duddilla said, "The semiconductor industry has to be here in a big way because we have the design talent over here. The next is the process of manufacturing. When we have the design talent, we would love to see that move to the next level of manufacturing. And we hope the central government also assists the state to push chip manufacturing here." The Minister emphasised that Telangana has implemented several policy measures to support the sector. "We have so many policy initiatives, like giving some incentives and subsidies to the semiconductor industry. We do a lot depending upon the product and the kind of chip manufacturing. Any other state would also be doing it. But here we have the talent, that is the additional facility we can give to chip manufacturing," he said. At the event, Duddilla also acknowledged the contribution of Telangana Information Technology Association (TITA) led by Sundeep Makthala, who is also the founder of the T-CHIP Summit. He said that many initiatives launched by TITA have created strong outcomes in the state, starting with digital literacy programmes. "When he [Sundeep] started to literate digitally each and every citizen of Telangana, it proved great results. That program is still continuing," he said. Referring to TITA's latest initiative, Pitch2Press, the Minister said it is designed to connect innovators with the wider ecosystem. "It's a novel exercise wherein all journalist friends would be infused with new ideas. Through them, it can reach the investor, it can reach the end user, which will instil confidence, trust and encouragement for innovators to move forward," Duddilla said. He further pointed to the launch of a publishing journal at the summit, which aims to educate people on technology trends. "That will help people to know the nuances of the technology field and get enlightened about what is going in and out of technology," he added. On the larger goals of the T-CHIP initiative, the Minister said, "What he's trying to design is to create a platform where anybody who would like to go for innovation can come and start the process for the ultimate chip manufacturing. This is a novel initiative and a very vibrant step taken by TITA. We will try to encourage them too." The T-CHIP Semicon Constitution Summit is designed to be more than just a conference. It aims to establish a foundational constitution for semiconductors, setting principles, fostering collaborations, and outlining mandates to accelerate ecosystem development in India and beyond. (ANI) India's indigenously designed Artificial Intelligence (AI) chips, developed with homegrown technology and talent, have been unveiled by innovators at the T-CHIP Semicon Constitution Summit in Hyderabad. These chips, built entirely in Telangana, mark a step in creating a self-reliant semiconductor ecosystem in the country. Speaking to ANI on the sidelines of the T-CHIP Semicon summit, Dinesh, an innovator and entrepreneur from IIT Hyderabad, said, "This is India's first AI chip, indigenously designed with the technology and the manpower from India. And proudly, it is made in Telangana as well." He explained that, unlike global rivals, their effort focuses not just on the hardware but also on the complete software ecosystem. "We are offering a complete ecosystem. You can see, right from the software stack to the built-in hardware security and processing of AI on this chip. So right from Python till Silicon, we are reimagining the entire AI hardware and software co-design," he said. The project, carried out with a small team of less than ten members, highlights the ambition of creating a domestic alternative to foreign chipmakers. "It's all about the motivation and the conviction to build these things. Why Nvidia and why Qualcomm, you know, to buy the chips? Why US and Taiwan chip makers? Why can't we be India's Nvidia or Qualcomm, right from the roots and our talent from this place?" Dinesh said. He added that the long-term vision is to make AI hardware accessible at lower costs to startups and educational institutions. "If you want to buy NVIDIA or Intel's hardware, it's quite expensive. So unnecessarily we are pouring money into western countries. Instead, we will build something of our own and supply it at low cost and be self-reliant again," he noted. For Dinesh, initiatives like Pitch2Press are key to gaining visibility and attracting investors. "If we are visible to the community, the greater will be the venture capitalists' attention. And since chip making is a capital-expensive business, we need a lot of investments pouring in. That eventually gives us the leverage and the benefits to design more and more chips, made in India specifically," he said. A first-of-its-kind initiative called Pitch2Press brought together 111 innovators to present their ideas not to investors, but to journalists. Highlighting the importance of training local talent, Dinesh stressed that building such chips is not just about innovation but also about building an ecosystem for the future. "We can definitely have this going and train manpower, align them accordingly and bring this semicon ecosystem to the state of Telangana and to the rest of India," he said. (ANI) Durga Puja in Kolkata has always been more than just a religious festival. For the city, it is a season of art and culture woven into devotion. Each year, pandals across the city never fail to surprise visitors with thought-provoking themes, and this year too, one Puja has stood out for the way it connects faith with history. In New Alipore, the well-known Suruchi Sangha, which is celebrating its 72nd year, has dedicated its theme to the unsung heroes of India's freedom struggle. Titled 'Ahuti' (meaning sacrifice), the pandal pays tribute to Bengal's freedom fighters who laid down their lives for the country. The walls of the pandal feature the faces of these revolutionaries, carefully crafted in plaster of Paris, so that every visitor can walk through history while celebrating the goddess. While speaking to ANI, Soumya Sarkar, a member of the Suruchi Sangha Durga Puja Committee, explained the thought behind this year's theme and their efforts to make people of all ages to stop and reflect. "We want every child, every elder, every youngster who visits to understand this history - a history that has given us such a rich culture and one that fills us with pride," he said. Sarkar added that the team wanted to remind people that Bengal's role in the freedom struggle was as important as that of others. "For 200 years, we were under British rule. To uproot that, so many Bengalis were involved. This year, through our Puja, we are paying tribute to those freedom fighters." The theme 'Ahuti' especially focuses on the contributions of those freedom fighters associated with the 'Anusilan Samity,' which was founded in 1902 to train in warfare against the British, disguised as a centre for fitness and health. Durga Puja, also known as Durgotsava or Sharodotsava, honours Goddess Durga and commemorates her victory over Mahishasur. According to Hindu belief, the goddess descends to her earthly abode during this time to bless her devotees. (ANI) Dravida Munnetra Kazagham (DMK) MP Kanimozhi Karunanidhi on Sunday expressed deepest condolences to the families of those who have lost their lives in the Karur stampede. The tragedy has left 38 people dead at a rally addressed by Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) president and actor Vijay in Karur, Tamil Nadu. In a post shared on X, DMK MP said, "The news that many people fainted and were admitted to the hospital due to the crowd congestion in Karur, and that several have lost their lives, is deeply shocking and distressing. The Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu has instructed that necessary assistance be provided on a war footing. I express my deepest condolences to the families of those who have lost their lives." https://x.com/KanimozhiDMK/status/1971968490790850876 Meanwhile, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin visited the Government Medical College and Hospital late on Saturday night and met with those injured in Saturday's stampede at Karur. CM MK Stalin paid tribute to those who lost their lives in the Karur stampede incident. He also meets the families of victims. Following the incident, He landed in Trichy from Chennai and headed to Karuru by road. Meanwhile, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin announced a compensation of Rs 10 lakh each to the families of the victims after 36 were killed in the incident. CM Stalin also announced aid of Rs 1 lakh each to those undergoing medical treatment in hospitals. The Chief Minister further announced the formation of a one-member Commission of Inquiry, headed by retired High Court Judge Justice Aruna Jagadeesan, to conduct a thorough investigation and submit a report to the government. In a statement, the Chief Minister expressed deep sorrow over the incident and conveyed his condolences to the bereaved families. Terming the loss "irreparable," he assured that the government is taking all necessary steps to support the victims."On receiving the heartbreaking news that 36 people, including eight children and 16 women, lost their lives in the crowd crush at the political campaign meeting of Tamizhaga Vetri Kazhagam in Karur today (27.09.2025), I was deeply shocked and pained," read the statement. "These priceless lives lost have shaken all our hearts. I extend my deepest condolences and sympathies to the families who have suffered this irreparable loss. I have directed that all those admitted to hospitals for treatment must receive the best possible medical care," it added. (ANI) Director General of Police (DGP) in charge of Tamil Nadu, G Venkatraman, noted that earlier rallies of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam TVK had "smaller crowds", but this time the turnout was "far higher" than expected a day after 38 people died at a rally addressed by TVK president and actor Vijay in Karur, Tamil Nadu. DGP Venkatraman stated that the "reality" is that the crowd had already been "waiting for hours without sufficient food and water", as Vijay arrived few hours late at the venue "The permission for the meeting was given for 3 pm to 10 pm, but crowds started assembling as early as 11 am. By the time Vijay arrived at 7:40 pm., the crowd had already been waiting for hours without sufficient food and water. That is the reality. Vijay himself appreciated the police for their role but stressed that party cadres must take responsibility for crowd management. It does not mean the police should deploy numbers equal to the entire crowd of 27,000. The reasons behind the tragic incident will be revealed only after the inquiry. A one-person commission has already been established. Until then, I cannot comment further on it," DGP told reporters. He also said that police personnel were deployed in large numbers at the venue where Vijay was scheduled to address "This is a deeply tragic incident. So far, 38 people have died: 12 men, 16 women, and 10 children (five boys and five girls). Following the incident, we reviewed the steps that the police should take...Earlier rallies of TVK had smaller crowds, but this time the turnout was far higher than expected. Though organisers had requested a large ground in Karur, anticipating about 10,000 people, nearly 27,000 gathered. At the campaign venue where Vijay was to address the public, 500-plus police personnel were on duty" Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin visited the Government Medical College and Hospital late on Saturday night and met with those injured in Saturday's stampede. CM MK Stalin paid tribute to those who lost their lives in the Karur stampede incident. He also meets the families of victims. Following the incident, He landed in Trichy from Chennai and headed to Karuru by road. Meanwhile, TVK chief and actor Vijay expressed grief over the tragic loss of lives in a stampede at his rally in Karur in Tamil Nadu on Saturday. In a post on X, Vijay prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured in the incident."My heart is shattered; I am writhing in unbearable, indescribable pain and sorrow that words cannot express. I extend my deepest condolences and sympathies to the families of my dear brothers and sisters who lost their lives in Karur. I pray for the swift recovery of those receiving treatment in the hospital," Vijay posted. (ANI) Telangana Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy on Sunday condoled the loss of many precious lives in a rally addressed by Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) president and actor Vijay in Karur, Tamil Nadu. As many as 39 people were killed in the tragedy. In a post shared on X, Reddy said, "Deeply saddened to hear about the tragic stampede in #Karur that led to loss of many precious lives. My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families." https://x.com/revanth_anumula/status/1971980737072214104 Meanwhile, Director General of Police (DGP) in charge of Tamil Nadu, G Venkatraman, noted that earlier rallies of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam TVK had "smaller crowds", but this time the turnout was "far higher" than expected a day after 38 people died at a rally addressed by TVK president and actor Vijay in Karur, Tamil Nadu. DGP Venkatraman stated that the "reality" is that the crowd had already been "waiting for hours without sufficient food and water", as Vijay arrived few hours late at the venue. "The permission for the meeting was given for 3 pm to 10 pm, but crowds started assembling as early as 11 am. By the time Vijay arrived at 7:40 pm., the crowd had already been waiting for hours without sufficient food and water. That is the reality. Vijay himself appreciated the police for their role but stressed that party cadres must take responsibility for crowd management. It does not mean the police should deploy numbers equal to the entire crowd of 27,000. The reasons behind the tragic incident will be revealed only after the inquiry. A one-person commission has already been established. Until then, I cannot comment further on it," DGP told reporters. He also said that police personnel were deployed in large numbers at the venue where Vijay was scheduled to address. "This is a deeply tragic incident. So far, 38 people have died: 12 men, 16 women, and 10 children (five boys and five girls). Following the incident, we reviewed the steps that the police should take...Earlier rallies of TVK had smaller crowds, but this time the turnout was far higher than expected. Though organisers had requested a large ground in Karur, anticipating about 10,000 people, nearly 27,000 gathered. At the campaign venue where Vijay was to address the public, 500-plus police personnel were on duty" Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin visited the Government Medical College and Hospital late on Saturday night and met with those injured in Saturday's stampede. CM MK Stalin paid tribute to those who lost their lives in the Karur stampede incident. He also meets the families of victims. Following the incident, He landed in Trichy from Chennai and headed to Karuru by road. (ANI) As the Bihar Assembly elections draw closer, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has intensified its preparations, unveiling a strong organisational strategy aimed at securing every seat. In a major move, the party has appointed 45 "special" leaders from different states to oversee election management in Bihar. Each of these leaders has been assigned responsibility for one Lok Sabha constituency, with further deployment planned at the Assembly level in the coming weeks. On average, every leader will handle six Assembly segments, creating a direct link between grassroots workers and top leadership. The strategy was finalised in a high-level meeting held in Patna, attended by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Bihar election in-charge Dharmendra Pradhan, state in-charge Vinod Tawde, and several senior leaders. During the meeting, these leaders were given their roles and dispatched to different regions with the mission of securing "Mission Bihar Victory." The "Special 45" includes leaders from various states, such as former BJP state president and MP B.D. Sharma, Union Minister Prahlad Patel, and others from Madhya Pradesh; MPs Satish Gautam, Rajkumar Chahar, and others from Uttar Pradesh; Rajendra Rathore from Rajasthan; MPs Santosh Pandey and Vijay Baghel from Chhattisgarh; former MP Ramesh Bidhuri and Union Minister Harsh Malhotra from Delhi; MPs Devusinh Chauhan and Mitesh Patel from Gujarat; former MP Sunita Duggal from Haryana; MP Jugal Kishore Sharma from Jammu & Kashmir; MPs Manish Jaiswal and Kalicharan Singh from Jharkhand; and MP Anant Nayak from Odisha. Several other ex-MPs, MLAs, senior office bearers, and youth leaders have also been roped in. According to party sources, these leaders are not just tasked with campaigning but with activating local cadres, strengthening booth-level structure, and ensuring the NDA's victory in every seat. The BJP believes that the on-ground presence and organisational experience of the "Special 45" will significantly alter the electoral dynamics in Bihar. (ANI) Union Minister HD Kumaraswamy condoled the loss of lives in the rally addressed by Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) President and actor Vijay in Karur, Tamil Nadu. A total of 39 people were killed in the tragedy. The Union Minister also prayed for a speedy recovery of the injured. https://x.com/hd_kumaraswamy/status/1971979635576733743 "It was a shock to learn that many people were killed and many others were seriously injured in a tragedy that occurred during a political rally in Karur, Tamil Nadu. This is a very sad incident. My heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased. May they find the strength to bear this loss of life and may God rest the departed soul. I pray for a speedy recovery for all those injured," the post on X by Kumaraswamy read. Meanwhile, BJP leader K Annamalai strongly criticised the Tamil Nadu government and police for their negligence. Annamalai called the incident "deeply shocking" and "highly condemnable". In a post on X on Saturday, Annamalai wrote, "In Karur, the news that approximately forty people, including children, lost their lives due to a stampede at a gathering attended by Thaveka leader Mr Vijay is deeply shocking and distressing. Many others have been injured and admitted to hospitals. I urge the Tamil Nadu government to ensure proper treatment for all those affected. I express my deepest condolences to the families of those who lost their lives. For a political party's gathering, it is the responsibility of the police to accurately estimate the number of attendees, select an appropriate venue accordingly, and deploy an adequate number of police personnel to ensure the safety of the public attending the event." "There are also reports that electricity was disrupted during Mr. Vijay's gathering. The Tamil Nadu government and the police acting with such negligence is highly condemnable," he added. He also alleged that the government failed to provide adequate security for an opposition event and demanded a full investigation into the incident and strict action if lapses in police arrangements or power supply are confirmed. "The DMK government, which deploys the entire district police force to provide security for gatherings organized by DMK members, has made it a habit to fail in providing adequate security arrangements for events held by opposition parties. I strongly urge the DMK government to immediately provide appropriate compensation to the families of those who lost their lives, conduct a thorough investigation into whether this accident occurred due to inadequate security arrangements and the power disruption, and take strict action based on the findings," the post read. (ANI) Puducherry Chief Minister N Rangasamy has expressed condolences to the families of the people who died in the stampede in Tamil Nadu's Karur and prayed for the speedy recovery of those undergoing medical treatment. Issuing a statement on Saturday, CM Rangasamy said, "I was deeply saddened and shocked to hear the news that 36 people have died so far in a stampede at a political rally organised by Vijay on behalf of the Tamil Nadu Vettri Kazhagam in Karur, Tamil Nadu. I express my deepest condolences to the deceased and pray for the speedy recovery of those undergoing treatment in the hospital." The incident occurred on Saturday during a rally held by TVK chief Vijay, which killed 39 people and left 95 injured. The Puducherry Pradesh Congress Committee also mourned the deceased and wished for the speedy recovery of those injured in the tragic incident. Congress MP V Vaithilingam, in a statement, said, "The tragic news that more than 50 people have been admitted to hospitals, including 3 children, after many people fainted in the stampede that occurred during the campaign meeting of the Tamil Nadu Victory Party held in Karur in Tamil Nadu on the evening of 27. 9. 2025, is a source of great shock and deep mental anguish. "On behalf of the Puducherry Pradesh Congress Committee, we express our deepest condolences to the families of the deceased. Furthermore, we pray for the speedy recovery of all those injured and undergoing treatment in the hospital," the Congress MP added. A total of 39 people have lost their lives, while 95 were injured in the stampede during a Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) rally in Karur, Tamil Nadu, Health Secretary P Senthil Kumar said. Speaking to reporters, P Senthil Kumar said that out of 95 injured people, all are stable except one. He said, "A total of 95 people have been admitted to the hospital. 51 are admitted to the Government Medical College and Hospital. Except for one, the others are stable. Specialised doctors are looking after them. The remaining 44 are admitted to the private hospitals. 39 people have lost their lives." Meanwhile, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin has ordered a one-man commission for an enquiry into the incident, while the State police have registered a case. (ANI) Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin on Sunday expressed deep sorrow over the Karur tragedy that claimed 39 lives during a rally led by actor and TVK leader Vijay. In an emotional message, Stalin said the grief and cries of the victims' families have deeply affected him and remain in his heart. https://x.com/mkstalin/status/1972105943614923140 In a post on X, MK Stalin wrote, "The tears shed by the families of those who lost their lives throughout the night, and the pain caused by their grief-filled cries, have not left my heart... Karur Tragedy" The tragedy has left 39 people dead at a rally addressed by Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) president and actor Vijay in Karur, Tamil Nadu, on Saturday. The Chief Minister, MK Stalin, announced a compensation of Rs 10 lakh each to the families of the victims who were killed in the Karur stampede. CM Stalin also announced aid of Rs 1 lakh each to those undergoing medical treatment in hospitals. Earlier, BJP leader K Annamalai strongly criticised the Tamil Nadu government and police for their negligence. Annamalai called the incident "deeply shocking" and "highly condemnable". In a post on X on Saturday, K Annamalai wrote, "In Karur, the news that approximately forty people, including children, lost their lives due to a stampede at a gathering attended by Thaveka leader Mr Vijay is deeply shocking and distressing. Many others have been injured and admitted to hospitals. I urge the Tamil Nadu government to ensure proper treatment for all those affected. I express my deepest condolences to the families of those who lost their lives. For a political party's gathering, it is the responsibility of the police to accurately estimate the number of attendees, select an appropriate venue accordingly, and deploy an adequate number of police personnel to ensure the safety of the public attending the event." "There are also reports that electricity was disrupted during Mr. Vijay's gathering. The Tamil Nadu government and the police acting with such negligence is highly condemnable," he added. He also alleged that the government failed to provide adequate security for an opposition event and demanded a full investigation into the incident, and strict action if lapses in police arrangements or power supply are confirmed. "The DMK government, which deploys the entire district police force to provide security for gatherings organized by DMK members, has made it a habit to fail in providing adequate security arrangements for events held by opposition parties. I strongly urge the DMK government to immediately provide appropriate compensation to the families of those who lost their lives, conduct a thorough investigation into whether this accident occurred due to inadequate security arrangements and the power disruption, and take strict action based on the findings," the post read. (ANI) In a post on X, Kharge wrote that the freedom fighter's patriotism was centred on equality and unity, which continued to remain an inspiration for Indians. https://x.com/kharge/status/1972136285230788910 "The love for the country will not go away from the heart even after death. The fragrance of the country will also come from my soil. ~ Martyr Bhagat Singh." "Respectful tribute to the great freedom fighter, Shaheed-e-Azam Bhagat Singh ji, who sacrificed everything for the Independence of the country, on his birth anniversary," the post added. "Bhagat Singh wrote consistently against hate and divisive ideology and expressed concern against inequality in society. His patriotism was centred on equality and unity, which will remain a source of inspiration for every Indian," the post read. Born on September 28, 1907, in a Punjabi Sikh family in the village of Banga, in Lyallpur district of Punjab, then part of British India and now Pakistan, Singh was a major figure in the country's Independence movement of the early 20th century. He was active in the revolutionary struggle from an early age, and was briefly affiliated with Mahatma Gandhi's Non-Cooperation Movement. Under the leadership of Singh, the Kirti Kissan Party was renamed the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association, which rose to new prominence in the Indian Independence movement and became a focus of public criticism. Singh's slogan of 'Inquilab Zindadad' still echoes in the minds of people. His political thoughts evolved from Gandhian nationalism to revolutionary Marxism. On March 23, 1931, the freedom fighter was hanged to death in the Lahore conspiracy case. He continues to inspire thousands of people. (ANI) Tamil Nadu BJP President Nainar Nagendran on Sunday reached the Government Medical College and Hospital in Karur, where the injured from the stampede are undergoing treatment and the bodies of victims are being handed over to their families after postmortem. The Tamil Nadu BJP also called for the cancellation of all party programs for the next two days. "The heart-wrenching deaths that occurred in Karur are a tragic incident. The loss is irreplaceable. Words cannot describe it. There are no words to console the families of those who have been lost. Let us pray to God that all the brothers and sisters receiving treatment in the hospital recover fully. As per the instructions of our state president, all programs planned by the Bharatiya Janata Party for the next 2 days have been canceled," said the state unit The stampede took place on Saturday during a political rally of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chief and actor Vijay, claiming 39 lives. State Director of Medical Education (DME), Suganthy Rajakumari, confirmed that two patients remain in critical condition. Speaking to ANI, Rajakumari said, "The total number of dead bodies we received is 39. The number of patients was 52. Only two patients are critical and on a ventilator. Before noon, we will finish all postmortems and hand over the bodies to the family members. The government has arranged accommodation, food and other things." BJP leader Tamilisai Soundarajan also appealed for sensitivity while extending support to the victims' families. "I am going to Karur to support the distressed. What all support is needed, we will provide. I want to request that instead of making it sensational, let us all act sensibly. Whether they need blood or any kind of medical help, or whether the family needs support, we have also requested our district president and presidents of nearby districts to help them in every possible way. I reached Karur early in the morning. Our state president is also reaching. Union Home Minister had called the Chief Minister and enquired about the situation and offered whatever help the Central government can give. The Prime Minister has very painfully conveyed his message to the country," Soundarajan told ANI. Additional Director General of Police (ADGP), Law and Order, S. Davidson Devasirvatham, said that a case has been registered and an investigation is underway. "We will have to get the preliminary investigation done. Thirty-nine people have lost their lives. A case has been registered," he told reporters. (ANI) Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Tamilisai Soundarajan on Sunday met victims and bereaved families after the Karur stampede, and expressed her condolences and support. Speaking to ANI, the BJP leader said, "Let us wait for the enquiry. First of all, we are with the people and we'll be sensible rather than sensational. Let the injured recover and then we will see." The tragedy has left 39 people dead at a rally addressed by Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) president and actor Vijay in Karur, Tamil Nadu, on Saturday. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin also expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy. In an emotional message, Stalin said the grief and cries of the victims' families have deeply affected him and remain in his heart. In a post on X, MK Stalin wrote, "The tears shed by the families of those who lost their lives throughout the night, and the pain caused by their grief-filled cries, have not left my heart... Karur Tragedy" The Chief Minister, MK Stalin, announced a compensation of Rs 10 lakh each to the families of the victims who were killed in the Karur stampede. CM Stalin also announced aid of Rs 1 lakh each to those undergoing medical treatment in hospitals. Earlier, BJP leader K Annamalai strongly criticised the Tamil Nadu government and police for their negligence. Annamalai called the incident "deeply shocking" and "highly condemnable." In a post on X on Saturday, K Annamalai wrote, "In Karur, the news that approximately forty people, including children, lost their lives due to a stampede at a gathering attended by Thaveka leader Mr Vijay is deeply shocking and distressing. Many others have been injured and admitted to hospitals. I urge the Tamil Nadu government to ensure proper treatment for all those affected. I express my deepest condolences to the families of those who lost their lives. For a political party's gathering, it is the responsibility of the police to accurately estimate the number of attendees, select an appropriate venue accordingly, and deploy an adequate number of police personnel to ensure the safety of the public attending the event." (ANI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi also offered heartfelt obeisance at the feet of Devi Maa, invoking her divine blessings for the nation. In a message resonating with spiritual fervour and collective goodwill, the Prime Minister prayed for the well-being, courage, and inner strength of all citizens. "Salutations at the feet of Devi Ma! I pray to her that she blesses everyone with indomitable courage and excellent health. May her grace infuse self-strength into everyone's life," PM Modi wrote on X. Earlier, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath offered prayers at the Maa Pateshwari Devi temple on the occasion of Sharadiya Navratri. Shardiya Navratri is a vibrant and sacred Hindu festival that spans nine nights, celebrating the divine feminine energy embodied by Goddess Durga. Observed in the lunar month of Ashwin, this festival is marked by fervent worship, elaborate rituals, and cultural performances. Each day is dedicated to a different form of the goddess, symbolising various aspects of strength, compassion, and wisdom. Devotees engage in fasting, singing devotional songs, and participating in traditional dances, such as Garba and Dandiya, creating a joyful atmosphere. Navratri days hold great significance among Hindus, and these days are celebrated with great grandeur. The seventh day of Navratri is dedicated to worshipping 'Maa Kaalratri', the fierce manifestation of Goddess Durga. She is also known as a destroyer of demons, evil spirits, and negative energies. She helps the devotees to remove the darkness. (ANI) On the occasion of Sharadiya Navratri, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath offered prayers at the Maa Pateshwari Devi temple, situated in the Tulsipur area of Balrampur district in the state, this morning. The temple, also known as Devi Patan, is one of the famous 51 Shakti Peethas of Goddess Durga. Earlier on Saturday, ahead of Dussehra celebrations in Uttar Pradesh, CM Yogi Adityanath ordered strict action against miscreants in the State, a statement by the UP government said. CM Yogi said that Dussehra symbolises the burning of evil and terror; this is the right time to take action against miscreants. Security is paramount during Durga Puja and Ravana Dahan ceremonies. He said that the idols should not exceed a safe height, and alternative arrangements for immersion are necessary. Miscreants will not be spared; action will be taken that will prevent them from even thinking of creating anarchy again, the Chief Minister said. The Chief Minister also directed the police to conduct surprise inspections of slaughterhouses and ensure compliance with standards. He called for no traffic jams and tight security, and also instructed the district administrations to prioritise visits and meetings by the Minister-in-Charge and other public representatives in the districts. Core group meetings should be reported to the Chief Minister's Office, the statement said. Shardiya Navratri is a vibrant and sacred Hindu festival that spans nine nights, celebrating the divine feminine energy embodied by Goddess Durga. Observed in the lunar month of Ashwin, this festival is marked by fervent worship, elaborate rituals, and cultural performances. Each day is dedicated to a different form of the goddess, symbolising various aspects of strength, compassion, and wisdom. Devotees engage in fasting, singing devotional songs, and participating in traditional dances, such as Garba and Dandiya, creating a joyful atmosphere. Navratri days hold great significance among Hindus, and these days are celebrated with great grandeur. The seventh day of Navratri is dedicated to worshipping 'Maa Kaalratri', the fierce manifestation of Goddess Durga. She is also known as a destroyer of demons, evil spirits, and negative energies. She helps the devotees to remove the darkness. (ANI) With Bihar elections drawing closer, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) unit of the state on Sunday announced the Election Campaign Committee for the elections. The committee comprises of 45 members. A day earlier, Union Minister Amit Shah held a meeting with party workers from Mithila and Tirhut regions at Samastipur. In a post on X, Shah emphasised that all the workers are committed to a grassroots push with Modi Ji's vision and the mission of 'Developed Bihar' to ensure a massive majority for the NDA in the upcoming Assembly elections. Shah stated, "Today, in Samastipur, Bihar, I held a meeting with BJP workers from the district level in the Mithila and Tirhut regions regarding the upcoming elections and gave appropriate instructions. All workers from the 12 organisational districts under these regions are committed to reaching every resident in each area with Modi Ji's vision and the mission of 'Developed Bihar' to ensure a massive majority for the NDA." Earlier, Shah addressed party workers in Bihar's Araria. He asserted that this election is about driving out infiltrators from all of Bihar, promising that the BJP will drive out all the infiltrators from the sacred land of Bihar. The Home Minister also launched attacks on opposition RJD, claiming that Lalu Yadav's only aim is to make his son (Tejashwi Yadav) Chief Minister in this election. Amit Shah said, "For Rahul and Lalu, this election is about making their party win. It's about making Lalu's son the Chief Minister. But for all of us, BJP workers, this election is about driving out infiltrators from all of Bihar. Make the NDA win with a two-thirds majority, I promise you that the BJP will do the work of driving these infiltrators from the sacred land of Bihar." Shah further came down heavily on the Congress and the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), accusing them of committing "mass corruption" during their rule in the Centre and Bihar. The Home Minister alleged that "Lalu and company" looted Bihar and committed numerous scams and frauds. Contrary to that, he said opposition parties are unable to level a single allegation of corruption against the Modi government, which has been in power for the last 11 years. (ANI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to Shaheed Bhagat Singh on his 118th birth anniversary on Sunday, calling him an inspiration to the youth. Addressing the 126th episode of his monthly radio broadcast, Mann Ki Baat, PM Modi recalled Bhagat Singh's letter to the Britishers demanding a prisoner-of-war-like treatment. The Prime Minister said, "Amar Shaheed Bhagat Singh is an inspiration for every Indian, especially the youth. Fearlessness was deeply ingrained in his nature." "Before being hanged, he had written a letter to the British requesting a prisoner of war-like treatment from the British and that he and his associates be shot to death, rather than being hanged. He was very sensitive towards people's sufferings," he added. Born on September 28, 1907, in a Punjabi Sikh family in the village of Banga, in Lyallpur district of Punjab, then part of British India and now Pakistan, Singh was a major figure in the country's Independence movement of the early 20th century. He was active in the revolutionary struggle from an early age and was briefly affiliated with Mahatma Gandhi's Non-Cooperation Movement. Under the leadership of Singh, the Hindustan Republican Association was renamed the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA), which rose to new prominence in the Indian Independence movement and became a focus of public criticism. Singh's slogan of 'Inquilab Zindadad' still echoes in the minds of people. His political thoughts evolved from Gandhian nationalism to revolutionary Marxism. On March 23, 1931, the freedom fighter was hanged to death in the Lahore conspiracy case. Earlier today, Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge also paid tributes to the Martyr, saying that he consistently wrote against hate and divisive ideologies, expressing concern about inequality in society. In a post on X, Kharge wrote that the freedom fighter's patriotism was centred on equality and unity, which continued to remain an inspiration for Indians. "The love for the country will not go away from the heart even after death. The fragrance of the country will also come from my soil. ~ Martyr Bhagat Singh." "Respectful tribute to the great freedom fighter, Shaheed-e-Azam Bhagat Singh ji, who sacrificed everything for the Independence of the country, on his birth anniversary," the post added. "Bhagat Singh wrote consistently against hate and divisive ideology and expressed concern against inequality in society. His patriotism was centred on equality and unity, which will remain a source of inspiration for every Indian," the post read. (ANI) Seventeen Chinese automakers brought new models to Turin this year - about one-third of all exhibitors - Levy noted that BYD, Denza, Dongfeng and JAC were among them, with several brands making their Italian debut. TURIN, Italy, Sept. 27 (Xinhua) -- China's automobile manufacturers are rapidly becoming an important driving force in Europe's auto industry, bringing fresh design ideas, competitive electric-vehicle technology and growing market presence to the continent, Andrea Levy, president of Turin Auto Show, told Xinhua in a recent interview. Held across open city blocks in the northern Italian city, the 2025 Turin Auto Show blends Italy's long-standing design tradition with an increasingly international exhibitor list. This year the show unveiled the Turin Automotive Design Award for the first time, a professional prize established with European official backing to promote cooperation between Chinese and European automakers. An independent international jury made up of nine leading Italian automotive design and R&D institutes selected winners that included Chinese marques such as Changan, JAC, Geely and Jetour, Levy said, praising the awards as recognition of China's rising design capabilities and a step toward closer Sino-Italian industrial ties. Seventeen Chinese automakers brought new models to Turin this year - about one-third of all exhibitors - Levy noted that BYD, Denza, Dongfeng and JAC were among them, with several brands making their Italian debut. "For example, BYD presented its premium Denza brand, Dongfeng launched a new sub-brand, and Zeekr exhibited its models," he said, noting that Chinese high-performance electric models - like the Zeekr 001 FR with its 800-horsepower output - have showcased the technical capabilities of these brands to Italian audiences. The show is expected to attract some 500,000 visitors, Levy added. "Taking part in international motor shows is very important for Chinese brands. Many European consumers have been unfamiliar with Chinese cars, but here they can see the design and technical strength with their own eyes." Levy believes Chinese manufacturers are well positioned to accelerate Europe's shift from internal-combustion engines to electrification. He said that Italy's adoption of pure electric vehicles has lagged behind other European countries. He estimated EVs make up roughly 5 percent of Italy's market, compared with more than 10 percent in Germany and France and over 50 percent in Norway, and said that China's combination of advanced battery and charging technologies, plus attractive pricing, gives Chinese automakers significant potential. "Chinese cars are technologically advanced, support very fast charging and are competitively priced," Levy said. "Some Chinese models already support ultra-fast 400-kilowatt charging, allowing a recharge in about 15 minutes - an experience that is new for many Italian consumers." He argued that such strengths will help European buyers transition from fuel vehicles to electric models more quickly. On how Chinese manufacturers can deepen their presence in Europe, Levy emphasized visibility and hands-on experience. "European consumers tend to have long-standing trust in traditional local brands. Chinese marques lack that historical familiarity. But if consumers can test-drive these cars and the media cover them, perceptions will change - because the cars perform well, are well designed and are reasonably priced." Levy also highlighted the natural complementarity between the two countries. Italy's global renown in car design - the home of masters such as Pininfarina and Giorgetto Giugiaro - and its logistics networks offer entry points for Chinese manufacturers. "Many Chinese firms have already set up design centers in Turin to develop global models; Changan is one example," he said. "Italy is not only a design hub in Europe, it is also an important gateway. Vehicles arriving through Italian ports can be distributed across Europe, and Italian logistics companies can help build a continent-wide sales network." Describing cooperation as mutually beneficial, Levy said Italy's expertise in high-performance vehicle design can be coupled with China's extensive experience in batteries and electrification. "Such cooperation can teach Italy more about electric-vehicle technology while helping Chinese automakers establish themselves in Europe," he said. Looking ahead, the Turin Auto Show plans to go beyond vehicle displays and to build concrete industry linkages. "In 2026 we plan to create a dedicated section within the show to facilitate China-Italy and broader China-Europe automotive cooperation, providing matchmaking opportunities and helping firms establish new commercial contacts," Levy said. Concluding the interview, Levy expressed admiration for the pace and scale of China's auto industry development. "Chinese cars are not only technologically advanced and attractively designed, they are becoming an integral part of the global automotive industry. The Turin Auto Show is willing to act as an important bridge for Chinese brands entering Europe, he said. "We welcome more Chinese automakers to exhibit." Former Odisha Chief Minister and Biju Janata Dal (BJD) president Naveen Patnaik on Sunday expressed deep sorrow over the Karur stampede in Tamil Nadu that claimed 39 lives. Patnaik offered condolences to the grieving families and wished a speedy recovery for the injured. https://x.com/Naveen_Odisha/status/1972137651361964251 In a post on X, Naveen Patnaik wrote, "Deeply saddened to learn about the tragic loss of so many lives at the stampede at a rally in Karur, Tamil Nadu. My thoughts and prayers are with the grieving families during this difficult time and praying for the swift recovery of those who have sustained injuries." The tragedy has left 39 people dead at a rally addressed by Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) president and actor Vijay in Karur, Tamil Nadu, on Saturday. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin announced a compensation of Rs 10 lakh each to the families of the victims after 36 were killed in the incident. CM Stalin also announced aid of Rs 1 lakh each to those undergoing medical treatment in hospitals. The Chief Minister further announced the formation of a one-member Commission of Inquiry, headed by retired High Court Judge Justice Aruna Jagadeesan, to conduct a thorough investigation and submit a report to the government. A total of two patients are currently in critical condition and are on ventilator support, and at least 39 were killed after a stampede took place during a Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) rally in Karur, said the state's Director of Medical Education (DME), Suganthy Rajakumari. Speaking to ANI, the Director stated that the postmortem and handover of the bodies would be completed before Sunday noon, further noting that the government had arranged accommodation, food, and other necessities. "The total number of dead bodies we received is 39. The number of patients was 52. Only two patients are critical and on a ventilator. Before noon, we will finish all postmortems and hand over the bodies to the family members. Accommodation, food and other things have been arranged by the government." Rajakumari said. (ANI) Union Minister of State (MoS) and Member of Parliament (MP) from Thrissur, Actor Suresh Gopi, on Sunday, expressed condolences to the families of the individuals who lost their lives in the tragic stampede incident that occured in Tamil Nadu's Karur district on Saturday. In a Facebook post, MoS Gopi wrote, "Extremely saddened by the tragic stampede incident that occurred during a political rally in Karur, Tamil Nadu, yesterday (September 27). My heartfelt condolences to the families of the individuals who lost their lives. May the bereaved families find strength during this difficult time, and may those injured recover soon. The pain of such incidents is indescribable". MoS Gopi, praying for the speedy recovery of those affected, hoped for a fair and impartial investigation into this tragedy. Union Minister Gopi further wrote, "Let's hope the investigation into this tragedy remains fair, impartial, and above politics. The focus should be on uncovering the truth and ensuring justice for the victims, rather than politicizing the incident. Let's pray for the speedy recovery of those affected and stand together in solidarity with the victims' families." Earlier, Tamil Nadu Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) President Nainar Nagendran reached the Government Medical College and Hospital in Karur on Sunday, where the injured from the stampede are undergoing treatment. The Tamil Nadu BJP also called for the cancellation of all party programs for the next two days. "The heart-wrenching deaths that occurred in Karur are a tragic incident. The loss is irreplaceable. Words cannot describe it. There are no words to console the families of those who have been lost. Let us pray to God that all the brothers and sisters receiving treatment in the hospital recover fully. As per the instructions of our state president, all programs planned by the Bharatiya Janata Party for the next 2 days have been cancelled," said the BJP state unit The stampede had taken place on Saturday during a political rally of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chief and actor Vijay, claiming 39 lives. State Director of Medical Education (DME), Suganthy Rajakumari, confirmed that two patients remain in critical condition. Speaking to ANI, Rajakumari said, "The total number of dead bodies we received is 39. The number of patients was 52. Only two patients are critical and on a ventilator. Before noon, we will finish all postmortems and hand over the bodies to the family members. The government has arranged accommodation, food and other things." (ANI) Tamil Nadu BJP leader Vinoj P Selvam on Sunday criticised Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chief and actor Vijay for not visiting Karur to condole bereaved families and pay a visit to the injured after the recent stampede. The tragedy left 39 people dead at a rally addressed by Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) president and actor Vijay in Karur, Tamil Nadu, on Saturday. In a strongly worded post on X, Selvam claimed that all other political party leaders or representatives except Vijay had gone to Karur overnight, stating that the TVK chief acted as if there was "no connection" between him and the affected people. https://x.com/VinojBJP/status/1972158666657939516 "Except for @TVKVijayHQ, all other political party leaders or representatives have gone to Karur overnight and consoled the affected people. But actor Vijay, who travelled from Karur to Trichy by car, then from there to Chennai by flight, and then to Panaiyur by car, is staying quietly at home as if there is no connection at all between him and the affected people," the post read. Raising questions over the party chief's accountability, Selvam questioned how such a person could be accepted as the leader of the vibrant youth of the Tamil community. "Have you accepted such a person as the leader of the vibrant youth of the Tamil community!! Shame!!" the post further read. Meanwhile, Viduthalai Chiruthaigal Katchi (VCK) President and MP Thol Thirumavalavan expressed deep anguish over the tragic stampede in Tamil Nadu's Karur and urged the state government to increase the compensation for the victims. "At present, 39 people, including women and children, have lost their lives, and several others are battling for survival under intensive care. This tragedy is deeply disturbing. I extend my heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and urge the government to provide advanced medical treatment to the injured," Thirumavalavan told reporters at Chennai airport on his way to Karur to console the families of the victims. (ANI) Congress leader Pramod Tiwari on Sunday expressed condolences on the Karur stampede incident and criticised the lack of security arrangements at the event. "It is a very sad and unfortunate incident. I express my heartfelt condolences. I pray for the speedy recovery of the injured. The way the event's main organiser, Vijay, had taken permission for a certain number of people, three times that crowd gathered. No arrangements were made. I would like to thank the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister for announcing a compensation of 10 lakh..." he said. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also announced that the families of the 39 people who died in the Karur stampede would receive two lakh rupees each from the Prime Minister's National Relief Fund (PMNRF). He further announced Rs 50,000 for the injured. Sharing an X post, PMO said, "PM Narendra Modi has announced an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh from PMNRF to be given to the next of kin of each deceased in the unfortunate incident at a political rally in Karur, Tamil Nadu. The injured would be given Rs 50,000." Earlier on Saturday, the Prime Minister had expressed condolences on the lives lost in the stampede during TVK chief and actor Vijay's public rally in Tamil Nadu's Karur. "The unfortunate incident during a political rally in Karur, Tamil Nadu, is deeply saddening. My thoughts are with the families who have lost their loved ones. Wishing strength to them in this difficult time. Praying for a swift recovery to all those injured," PM Modi said in a post. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin had announced a compensation of Rs 10 lakh each to the families of the victims and Rs 1 lakh to those undergoing treatment. He has also ordered an enquiry into the incident. The stampede took place on Saturday during a political rally of Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) chief and actor Vijay, claiming 39 lives. State Director of Medical Education (DME), Suganthy Rajakumari, confirmed that two patients remain in critical condition. Police have registered a case in connection with the incident. (ANI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi shared the success story of a girl from Madhubani district in Bihar during the 126th episode of his monthly radio broadcast, 'Mann Ki Baat' today, highlighting how she has transformed Mithila painting into a means of livelihood for women. The Prime Minister said that all these success stories teach us that our traditions hold numerous sources of income. The Prime Minister said, "Sweety Kumari, from Madhubani district in Bihar, has also started Sankalp Creations. She has transformed Mithila painting into a means of livelihood for women. Today, more than 500 rural women are associated with her and are on the path to self-reliance. All these success stories teach us that our traditions hold numerous sources of income." Earlier, PM Modi paid tribute to Shaheed Bhagat Singh on his 118th birth anniversary on Sunday, calling him an inspiration to the youth. During the 'Mann Ki Baat' program, PM Modi recalled Bhagat Singh's letter to the Britishers demanding a prisoner-of-war-like treatment. The Prime Minister said, "Amar Shaheed Bhagat Singh is an inspiration for every Indian, especially the youth. Fearlessness was deeply ingrained in his nature." PM added, "Before being hanged, he had written a letter to the British requesting a prisoner of war-like treatment from the British and that he and his associates be shot to death, rather than being hanged. He was very sensitive towards people's sufferings". Bhagat Singh was born on September 28, 1907, in a Punjabi Sikh family in the village of Banga, in Lyallpur district of Punjab, then part of British India and now Pakistan, and was a major figure in the country's Independence movement of the early 20th century. Under the leadership of Singh, the Hindustan Republican Association was renamed the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA), which rose to new prominence in the Indian Independence movement and became a focus of public criticism. On March 23, 1931, the freedom fighter was hanged to death in the Lahore conspiracy case. (ANI) A prison officer was seriously injured after being attacked by an inmate at Mumbai's Arthur Road Jail, as per the Arthur Road Jail Authority. The incident occurred when Officer Rakesh Chavan attempted to break up a fight between inmates. The accused inmate, Affan Saifuddin Khan, was fighting with two or three other inmates inside his barrack. When Officer Chavan stepped in to stop the fight, Affan hit the officer with his head. The officer was badly hurt near his right eye and was taken immediately to a nearby government hospital for treatment, Jail Authority added. Even after the attack, Affan continued to misbehave and obstruct the prison staff. Authorities are now investigating whether the incident is connected to a gang war between inmates. Based on a complaint from the injured officer, a case has been registered against Affan at the NM Joshi Marg police station. As per the statement from Arthur Road Jail Authority, "Prison officer Rakesh Chavan, who tried to meddle in and stop a fight between inmates, was attacked at Mumbai's Arthur Road Jail. He was seriously injured in the attack, suffering a serious head injury, particularly near his right eye. The accused inmate, Affan Saifuddin Khan, initially fought with two or three inmates in his barrack. When officer Rakesh Chavan tried to stop him, Affan hit the officer with his head. The unsuspecting Chavan was seriously injured in this sudden attack and was immediately admitted to a nearby government hospital. Even after the attack, Affan continued to abuse and obstruct official work. Police are also investigating whether this incident is linked to a gang war between inmates. Based on the complaint of the injured officer, Rakesh Chavan, a case has been registered against the accused, Affan, at the N.M. Joshi Marg police station. The N.M. Joshi Marg police are conducting further investigations into the incident." Further investigation is ongoing. (ANI) Speaking to ANI on Saturday, Yaqoob said that the department wanted to bring positivity in the region after the tragic Pahalgam terror attack, in which 26 people lost their lives. He said, "On World Tourism Day, we organised various programs across Kashmir... In Pahalgam, we organised a bicycle rally and a painting competition among school children. Apart from this, a huge musical festival was also organised in Pahalgam. Similarly, a musical festival was also celebrated in Gulmarg." "We want to bring positivity in the entire country, the entire region, so that after the unfortunate incident in Pahalgam, discussions start once again in Jammu and Kashmir and tourists come in large numbers," Raja Yaqoob said. Meanwhile, a Heritage Walk was organised on Saturday in Katra to promote the traditional route leading to the revered Shri Mata Vaishno Devi shrine. The walk was flagged off by SDM Katra and Piyush Dhotra in the presence of the officials, local residents, and pilgrims. Participants retraced the historic path that has been followed by devotees for centuries, highlighting its spiritual, cultural, and heritage value. Speaking on the occasion, the official stressed that the initiative would not only revive awareness about the old route but also encourage sustainable and heritage-based tourism in the region. Local residents and traders welcomed the event, expressing hope that it would bring renewed attention and boost economic activity in the town. World Tourism Day is celebrated globally on September 27 every year. The Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, celebrated World Tourism Day 2025 with a focus on "Tourism and Sustainable Transformation". The event brought together distinguished stakeholders from government, industry, academia, and civil society, reaffirming India's commitment toward fostering cultural exchange, driving economic growth, and advancing sustainable practices in tourism, a Ministry of Tourism release said. (ANI) Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Sunday held detailed reviews of the flood situation in Solapur and Beed districts, directing the administration to intensify relief and rescue operations while ensuring citizens' safety amid continuing heavy rainfall in the Marathwada region. In Solapur, the Chief Minister was informed that 4,002 people have been rescued so far from flood-affected areas, while nearly 6,500 people are currently staying in relief camps. These camps have been equipped with food, drinking water, and healthcare facilities. Additionally, the Akshaya Patra Foundation is assisting in supplying meals to villages where required. To address fodder shortages for livestock, Fadnavis ordered immediate supply arrangements, which will be expanded from Monday. Damage assessments of affected houses are also underway on a large scale. As interim relief, families are being provided Rs 10,000 in cash, along with 10 kg rice and 10 kg wheat. The Naam Foundation has extended support to the administration, while local entrepreneurs and community leaders are being mobilised for coordinated relief planning. District-level and taluka-level relief cells are being set up, and the administration has planned to launch large-scale health camps from Monday. In Beed, officials reported that 17 dams have reached full capacity, with two more nearly at 90 per cent. Water is being discharged only from the Majalgaon Dam at present. Heavy rainfall has severely affected parts of the district, with 48 revenue circles receiving downpours in the last 24 hours. Some villages in Wadwani taluka have lost connectivity, though emergency assistance is being provided. Teams from the NDRF and the Indian Army are deployed and actively conducting rescue operations. The Chief Minister was informed that villages along rivers have been placed on high alert, with evacuation plans ready if required. In Ashti, 60 citizens were shifted to safety. Since September, 2,567 families have had to be relocated due to flooding. Sadly, 10 lives have been lost, with financial assistance already provided to eight affected families. Fadnavis instructed officials in both districts to remain on the ground, coordinate closely with state agencies, and ensure that relief measures--particularly food, water, healthcare, and fodder supply--are sustained without interruption. He emphasised proactive evacuation of vulnerable villages to prevent loss of life. (ANI) The programmes, including a music festival in Pahalgam and Gulmarg, aimed at spreading a message of positivity and ensuring that the "barbaric" Pahalgam terror attack does not deter people from bringing back discussions about visiting the Union territory once more, according to Director Raja Yaqoob. Yaqoob, on Saturday, told ANI, "...On World Tourism Day, we organised various programs across Kashmir... In Pahalgam, we organised a bicycle rally and a painting competition among school children. Apart from this, a huge musical festival was also organised in Pahalgam. Similarly, a musical festival was also celebrated in Gulmarg... We aim to bring positivity to the entire country and the entire region, especially in the aftermath of the unfortunate incident in Pahalgam. Now, finally, we can see tourists in large numbers in Jammu and Kashmir." Meanwhile, the Ministry of Tourism also celebrated World Tourism Day 2025 with the theme "Tourism and Sustainable Transformation", bringing together stakeholders from government, industry, academia, and civil society. The event was attended by Suman Bery, Vice Chairperson of NITI Aayog, as the Chief Guest. Suresh Gopi, Minister of State for Tourism, Petroleum & Natural Gas, presided over the celebration, while Suman Billa, Additional Secretary, Ministry of Tourism, delivered the welcome address. Reflecting the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) theme, the event highlighted tourism's role in sustainable transformation and its significance in India's journey towards "Viksit Bharat 2047." The Ministry said the World Tourism Day 2025 celebrations reaffirmed India's commitment to making tourism a movement for building a sustainable, inclusive, and prosperous future, showcasing leadership on the global stage while embracing innovation and people-centric development. (ANI) Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Sunday urged people to buy and sell only indigenous products, calling it essential for Atmanirbhar Bharat. On Prime Minister Narendra Modi's message in the latest episode of Mann ki Baat, she said his words are always inspiring and highlighted the importance of supporting Indian-made goods. Speaking to the reporters, Rekha Gupta said, "There are many things that the Prime Minister says, and every statement has its own meaning. Every statement is inspiring. In this episode today, it is very important to celebrate Diwali with indigenous products. Buy indigenous products and sell only indigenous ones. This is very necessary for Atmanirbhar Bharat." Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi called on citizens to support the country's 'swadeshi' products and encourage more purchases of Khadi products on the upcoming occasion of Gandhi Jayanti on October 2. In the 126th episode of Mann ki Baat, the PM said that the Father of the Nation, Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, emphasised the adoption of Swadeshi, Khadi being the top of it, the charm of which had faded after independence. "October 2nd is Gandhi Jayanti. Gandhi ji always emphasised the adoption of Swadeshi, and Khadi was foremost among them. Unfortunately, after independence, the charm of Khadi was fading, but in the last 11 years, the attraction of the people of the country towards Khadi has increased significantly. Khadi sales have seen a huge increase in the last few years. I urge all of you to buy some Khadi product on October 2nd. Say with pride that these are Swadeshi. Also share it on social media with Vocal for Local," the PM said during the episode. Citing the example of Yaazh Naturals, the PM said that tradition and innovation could yield remarkable results in the country. "Like Khadi, our handloom and handicraft sector is also witnessing significant changes. Today, numerous examples are emerging in our country that demonstrate how combining tradition and innovation can yield remarkable results. One example is Yaazh Naturals in Tamil Nadu. Here, Ashok Jagadeesan and Prem Selvaraj left their corporate jobs to take on a new initiative. They made yoga mats from grass and banana fibre, dyed clothes with herbal dyes, and provided employment to 200 families by training them. Ashish Satyavrat Sahu of Jharkhand has taken tribal weaving and garments to the global stage through the Johargram brand. Thanks to his efforts, people in other countries are now recognising Jharkhand's cultural heritage," the PM said. (ANI) China regrets UN Security Council failure to extend Iran nuke deal Xinhua) 08:47, September 28, 2025 UNITED NATIONS, Sept. 27 (Xinhua) -- China regrets the United Nations Security Council's failure to extend the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, said a Chinese envoy on Friday. The Security Council failed on Friday to adopt a resolution drafted by China and Russia that would have extended the nuclear deal between Iran and the six major countries of Britain, China, France, Germany, Russia and the United States, as well as Security Council Resolution 2231 that endorsed the deal, for six months. It would have also prevented a "snapback" of UN sanctions against Iran. Explaining Friday's vote, Geng Shuang, China's deputy permanent representative to the United Nations, said his country was deeply disappointed at the result. "The current situation has reached a critical juncture. We call on all parties to exercise calm and restraint, continue dialogue and engagement, handle the current predicament prudently, and avoid escalating tensions," said Geng. Britain, France and Germany -- the three European countries (E3) of the Iran nuclear deal, formally known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) -- claimed they have triggered the snapback mechanism on Aug. 28 by notifying the Security Council of Tehran's "non-performance." Under Resolution 2231, the UN sanctions in place before the resolution's adoption would resume 30 days after the notification, unless the Security Council adopts a resolution to decide otherwise. The Sept. 19 draft resolution to that effect failed. However, the legality of the three countries' move has been questioned as it has skipped the Dispute Resolution Mechanism (DRM) provided for in the JCPOA and Resolution 2231. Under the JCPOA and Resolution 2231, the DRM has 35 days to resolve the disagreement. A snapback can be triggered only after the DRM fails to resolve the issue. Resolution 2231 expires on Oct. 18, 2025, after which time the Security Council would stop considering the Iran nuclear deal. Against the backdrop of the ongoing conflict in Gaza and broader instability in the Middle East, "We urge the United States to demonstrate political will by responding positively to Iran's proposal to resume talks and committing unequivocally to refrain from further military strikes against Iran," Geng said. China also urges the E3 "to abandon its approach of pushing for sanctions and coercive pressure against Iran," Geng added. The unconditional return of the original signatories to the JCPOA to the negotiating table would facilitate a political settlement, said Geng. "All parties should engage in dialogue based on mutual respect and on equal footing, striving to find the greatest common denominator that accommodates the legitimate concerns of all sides. The Security Council should play a constructive role in helping relevant parties rebuild trust and bridge differences," he added. The core objectives and purposes established by the JCPOA and Security Council Resolution 2231 should not be abandoned. The key principles of a step-by-step and reciprocal approach and balancing the rights and obligations remain valid, he said. Iran should continue to honor its commitment not to develop nuclear weapons. All other parties should fully respect Iran's right to the peaceful use of nuclear energy as a signatory to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, he said. As a party to the JCPOA, China has been committed to the goal of nuclear non-proliferation by firmly upholding the authority, effectiveness and integrity of the JCPOA and promoting a faithful implementation of the agreement by all parties, said Geng. Following the U.S. withdrawal from the JCPOA in 2018 and in the face of the current impasse on the Iran nuclear issue, China has actively promoted dialogue and engagement among all parties, playing a positive and constructive role in resolving differences through negotiations, he added. "I wish to reiterate that China's solid commitment to safeguarding international peace and security remains unchanged. Its political will to seek a political settlement on the Iran nuclear issue remains unwavering. Its diplomatic efforts to promote dialogue and cooperation among all parties will not be relaxed," said Geng. Together with all parties, China stands ready to maintain an objective and impartial position in continuing its unremitting efforts toward a comprehensive political solution to the Iran nuclear issue, he said. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) Recently, the thematic exchange activity "Hong Kong and Macao Youth See the Motherland" was held in Huizhou District, with over 20 youths from Hong Kong and Macao participating. The event allowed young people from both regions to experience up close the profound depth of ancient Huizhou culture and the unique charm of provincial-level beautiful and exemplary villages. During the activity, the youths visited the ancient village of Xixinan, where lush green mountains and clear waters harmoniously complement the white walls and black tiles of traditional architecture. The vibrant green poplar maple forest presented a scene full of life, as if they had stepped into a breathtaking scroll of a Jiangnan landscape. Wandering through the poplar maple forest, they captured the lush greenery with their smartphones. Lv You, a student from The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, happened to have visited the ancient village of Xixinan exactly a year ago. Returning now, he noted, "The facilities in Xixinan have been significantly improved. The poplar maple forest is not only picturesque but also exceptionally well-preserved ecologically." Subsequently, the exchange group visited the Xie Yuda Tea Culture Museum, where they learned about the long-standing origins of Huizhou tea culture and the traditional intangible cultural heritage craftsmanship of Huangshan Maofeng tea. The distinctive charm of Huizhou-style architecture and the rich collection of exhibits provided a feast for the eyes, leaving everyone lingering and reluctant to leave. Anhui has been proactively sought projects to promote exchanges and integration between youth from Hong Kong, Macao, Taiwan, and overseas Chinese with Huangshan youth, and has hosted the "Hong Kong and Macao Youth See the Motherland" thematic activity for three consecutive years. By building platforms, more students from Hong Kong and Macao are invited to visit Huangshan, experience the cultural richness and developmental changes, thereby better promoting and publicizing Huangshan. Source: anhuinews.com With the Durga Puja festivities in full swing, the lanes of Delhi's Chittaranjan Park have started glowing with the warm scent of fried fish, 'phuchka' stalls, egg and chicken rolls, and, of course, the sweets. For many, evening strolls aren't just about having food but a box of nostalgia. What once began as a resettlement colony in the late 1960s has, over the decades, blossomed into what people all say--Delhi's own "mini Bengal". It is not just any other neighbourhood, but something that has brought together tradition, nostalgia, and identity, intertwining within the pulse of the capital. CR Park's Durga Puja history traces back to the early 70s when a handful of families started modest community celebrations. Fast-forward to now, and the festivities have flourished into some of Delhi's most iconic and elaborate pandals. Before diving deeper into the Durga Puja celebrations at CR Park, let's revisit its roots. Back in the day, when families were allotted land for resettlement, it was unlikely to imagine the transformation that lay ahead. The then 'East Pakistan Displaced Persons', or EPDP Colony, has now turned into Chittaranjan Park--a living archive of Bengal's food, culture, traditions, and festivals. Alongside its evolution from a resettlement colony into a Bengali enclave, Durga Puja emerged as the heartbeat of CR Park. The story of some of its most famous pandals rightfully mirrors the journey of the community itself. Beginning with the iconic Chittaranjan Park Kali Mandir Society, the temple was built on a hillock surrounded by forest-like vegetation, years after the CR Park was established in the 1960s. Prodip Ganguly, vice president of Chittaranjan Park Kali Mandir Society, spoke to ANI and shared details about the area's history and its long-standing association with Durga Puja. "When the EPDP colony was established, the Bengali people started wondering about starting the Durga Puja celebrations. One of the first Durga Puja celebrations was held at a small park opposite Market No. 1. As the gatherings grew larger, the festival was relocated to this location, which was just a hill. A Shiva temple was established by the people around 1973, which led to the registration of the Kali Mandir Society. The main puja started at the same time," he recalled. He revealed how the society expanded over the years with the construction of the Kali temple, the Radha Krishna temple, and much more. "We are now in the 53rd year. I believe this is the biggest Durga Puja celebration by non-resident Bengalis outside the state," he added. Prodip Ganguly also opened up on how there were multiple challenges in the initial years following the resettlement of people. "This was a complete forest area. There were robbery cases and much more. People faced challenges with the arrangements, transport, and finding the necessary supplies. The roads were not developed. There was also a time when the people discovered skeletons upon digging in the group. Eventually, people reconnected for a mutual cause, leading to the expansion of Durga Puja celebrations," he said. He spoke about how society has been organising cultural programmes, competitions, and musical gatherings to keep up with the festival's original essence and cultural aspect. The idols are also created inside the temple's premises, whereas the flowers are transported from Kolkata. Local artists are brought forward to help connect with the people, Ganguly shared. Partha Sarathy Dasgupta, one of the local veteran residents and a managing committee member, got nostalgic as he recalled the cherished memories of Durga Puja. Stating that he arrived in the area in the 1970s during his college days, Dasgupta shared how the festival was in its initial years. "We were young at that time, and we used to volunteer for the puja. Since then, there has been a rise in the celebrations, with some of the biggest pandals now housed in CR Park. Earlier, the pandals were created in a very simple manner with a few bamboo logs, a tent, small tables, and some lights. During storms, we used to hold onto the pandals so they wouldn't come crashing down," he said. A few kilometres away from the Kali Mandir Society lies another major Durga Puja gathering at the Mela Ground. Deepak Kumar, Durga Puja Samiti (Mela Ground) joint secretary, also took us through how their celebrations evolved over the years. Established in 1974, the Durga Puja celebrations at Mela Ground are dubbed as one of the biggest in North India. With its traditional approach, the Mela Ground swiftly changed into a crowd-packed fair, drawing attention with several cultural competitions for people of all ages. "Those who settled in the colony from East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) were the real ones to start the tradition of Durga Puja. Several senior members are still associated with us. There were challenges back in the day. The infrastructure was not suitable; however, things have changed with support from the people. The festivities were nuclear in the past and were not carried out on a large scale," he told ANI. Deepak recalled how immersions were once held at the Yamuna River; members would work together to build the pandals, decorate them, and bring the idols. "Durga Puja celebrations have indeed created a nostalgia for those away from home. Those associated with the creation of the pandals are the unsung heroes," he added. It is worth mentioning that the Durga Puja Samiti (Mela Ground) is observing its 50th year of celebrations, making the festivities a grand affair. Last but not least, the GK-2 Durgotsab, or a 'Bonedi Bari Durga Puja' - an ancestral household - has been standing out as a living testament to the tradition. GK-2 Durgotsab has rightfully opened its doors to celebrate the festival with homely rituals, while also echoing the grandeur of old Bengal. Generations of the same family have been hosting the festival, inviting friends, neighbours and fellow devotees to partake in the celebrations passed down over the decades. Samrat Banerjee, vice president and core member of GK-2 Durgotsab, reflected on how his family has been faithful to the original essence, standing as a quiet reminder of old-world rituals, while preserving a piece of Bengal in Delhi. "Though our family's history goes hundreds of years back with Durga Puja celebrations in Daryaganj, Kashmere Gate, New Delhi Kali Bari and more, we came here in 1991 and settled in and around Greater Kailash 2. This time, we are in the 34th year. It's quite a beautiful mix, which feels great. If we look at the elders, they are from a certain demography. So this is where the mix began," he said. Samrat spoke about how the family's Durga Puja celebrations have been constant, without any reliance on any theme or upgrade. "We have retained the quality of a homely puja throughout the past 34 years. We have kept the traditions that were followed 60-70 years ago. We try to keep it book by book as given by our past generations," he added. Samrat Banerjee also offered insight into the arrival of Goddess Durga, as they refer to her as "Bharat Raj Rajeshwari Katyayani". The celebrations witness devotion taking the centre stage amid the beats of the 'dhak' (large double-headed drums), fragrant incense, the Pushpanjali offerings, and much more. With all that said, from the grand themes of Mela Ground to the serene rituals of Kali Mandir Society and GK-2 Durgotsab, CR Park's Durga Puja celebrations have come forward with a spectrum of devotion, creativity, and community spirit. Whether steeped in tradition or marked by a modern touch, it echoes the same enduring message that Durga Puja is more than a festival; it is a warmth of shared experiences, which has been keeping the heart of Bengal alive in the capital. (ANI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday hailed two brave women officers of the Indian Navy who successfully completed the extraordinary sailing expedition, 'Navika Sagar Parikrama', which circumnavigated the Globe, demonstrating courage and determination throughout the expedition. While addressing the 126th episode of 'Mann Ki Baat', PM Modi said, "Two brave officers of the Indian Navy have demonstrated courage and determination during the Navika Sagar Parikrama. I would like to introduce the listeners of 'Mann Ki Baat' to these two brave officers. One is Lieutenant Commander Dilna, and the other is Lieutenant Commander Roopa." Two Indian Navy women officers, Lieutenant Commander Roopa A and Lieutenant Commander Dilna K, successfully completed the extraordinary sailing expedition, "Navika Sagar Parikrama II", of circumnavigating the Globe onboard Indian Naval Sailing Vessel Tarini in May this year. The duo had prepared themselves for this expedition over the course of three years. This extraordinary sailing expedition was flagged off from the Naval Ocean Sailing Node, Goa, on October 2, 2024, the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. After completing an eight-month global circumnavigation, it touched the shores of Goa on May 29 this year. Over a period of eight months, the Naval duo, famously called #DilRoo, covered a distance of approximately 50,000 km across four continents, three oceans and three Great Capes, braving extreme weather conditions and challenging seas, relying solely on sails and wind power. The expedition symbolises India's maritime endeavours, showcasing the nation's prominence in global maritime activities and the Indian Navy's commitment to excellence and Nari Shakti signifying the motto "Courageous Hearts Boundless Seas". During his 'Mann Ki Baat' radio program, PM Modi called on citizens to support the country's 'swadeshi' products and encourage more purchases of Khadi products on the upcoming occasion of Gandhi Jayanti on October 2. PM Modi paid tribute to Shaheed Bhagat Singh on his 118th birth anniversary on Sunday, calling him an inspiration to the youth. During the 'Mann Ki Baat' program, PM Modi recalled Bhagat Singh's letter to the Britishers demanding a prisoner-of-war-like treatment. The Prime Minister said, "Amar Shaheed Bhagat Singh is an inspiration for every Indian, especially the youth. Fearlessness was deeply ingrained in his nature." "Before being hanged, he had written a letter to the British requesting a prisoner of war-like treatment from the British and that he and his associates be shot to death, rather than being hanged. He was very sensitive towards people's sufferings," PM added. (ANI) The Election Commission of India (ECI) has decided to deploy Central Observers (General, Police and Expenditure) in Bihar and bye-elections in certain states, the poll body said on Sunday. The Election Commission deploys Central Observers under the plenary powers conferred on it by Article 324 of the Constitution and the powers conferred by Section 20B of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, to watch the conduct of elections in a constituency. According to the statement, the Observers work under the superintendence, control and discipline of the Commission for the period from their appointment until the election process is completed. They are entrusted with the crucial and solemn responsibility to ensure the fairness, impartiality and credibility of elections, which form the bedrock of the democratic polity. They act as the eyes and ears of the Commission and keep reporting to it periodically and as required. The Commission further said that Observers not only help it in fulfilling its constitutional mandate of conducting free, fair, transparent and inclusive elections but also contribute towards enhancing voter awareness and participation in elections. The main objective of the Observers is to identify areas for improvement and to formulate concrete and operative recommendations. By dint of their seniority and long administrative experience, General and Police Observers assist in the conduct of free and fair polls and oversee the efficient management of the electoral process at the field level. Expenditure Observers are appointed to observe the election expenses incurred by candidates. The ECI has decided to deploy 470 officers (320 IAS, 60 IPS and 90 from IRS/IRAS/ICAS etc.) serving in various states as Central Observers for the forthcoming general election to the legislative assembly of Bihar and bye-elections in Jammu & Kashmir (AC- Budgam & Nagrota), Rajasthan (AC- Anta), Jharkhand (AC- Ghatsila), Telangana (AC-Jubilee Hills), Punjab (AC-Tarn Taran), Mizoram (AC-Dampa) and Odisha (AC-Nuapada). (ANI) Congress leader KC Venugopal on Sunday joined the "Vote Chori, Gaddi Chhod" campaign held in Kerala's Alappuzha, in which the party claims to collect five crore signatures. In a post on X, the Congres leader claimed 'vote chori' is an isolated crime, and a part of a larger attack on the Constitution, which weakened the economy, led to social injustice and was a threat to the country's integrity. https://x.com/kcvenugopalmp/status/1972203862959513942 "Large-scale Vote Chori and manipulation of electoral rolls have shaken people's faith in the very foundation of our Republic. Vote Chori is not an isolated crime; it is part of a larger attack on our Constitution, weakening of our economy, systematic social injustice, and a threat to India's integrity. As part of our nationwide "Vote Chori, Gaddi Chhod" signature campaign & door-to-door campaign, I joined the movement today in my ward, Kaithavana, in Alappuzha. Across India, the Congress will collect five crore signatures against this blatant assault on democracy," he said. The Congress leader called upon citizens to join the 'struggle' to defend the Constitution and save the soul of India. "This is fast gaining momentum as a people's movement, and we call upon every citizen who believes in democracy to join this struggle to defend our Constitution and save the soul of India," the post further read. A day earlier, party leader Jairam Ramesh said that the reverse count for the ouster of Nitish Kumar-led Bihar government has started as he targeted Prime Minister Narendra Modi over his earlier potshots at the opposition parties, saying that he has begun distributing "revdis" to the people of the state ahead of assembly polls. He also repeated Congress' "vote chori" allegations against the BJP. Ramesh said that Prime Minister Modi "continuously criticised" the Karnataka government for providing Rs 2,000 per month to 1.3 crore women under the Gruha Lakshmi scheme, but now he himself is doing the same. (ANI) According to the association, the Navy accused them of crossing the international maritime boundary and took them to the Kankesanthurai naval camp for questioning. Their boat was also seized. On September 25, 12 fishermen, Selvam, Sundar, Velmurugan, Kandasamy, Balaguru from Kotucherry Medu area, Ravi from Akkampettai area, Vasanth from Klinjalmedu area, S. Murugan from Puducherry, TRP area, Suryan Muthu, Gopi, Nagai from Ezhumalai, Mayiladuthurai, Kudiyandiyur, Nathan Thulainathan from Kuchanguppam area, went for fishing when the neighbouring country arrested them, they said. The incident has triggered tension among the fishing community. Earlier this month, fishermen from Tamil Nadu's Ramanathapuram district, who the Sri Lankan Navy detained on similar charges, were released after paying a fine of five lakh Sri Lankan rupees each. At Chennai airport, after completing customs and immigration procedures, they were received by officials from the Fisheries Department. Fishermen who had ventured into the sea on June 28 and 30 in two boats from Rameswaram in Ramanathapuram district were arrested by the Sri Lankan Navy, who alleged that the fishermen had crossed the maritime boundary for fishing. All those arrested were produced before the Mannar court and lodged in Vavuniya prison. Later, the judge imposed a fine of 5 lakh Sri Lankan rupees on each of them. After the fine was paid on August 14, seven fishermen were released. They were initially held at Colombo's Welikada Prison and later at the Colombo Detention Camp. (ANI) Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Sunday inaugurated the newly constructed flyover at Nand Nagri, stating that the long-pending project has been completed in a short span under her government's tenure. Speaking to the reporters, CM Gupta said, "The work, which was pending for years, was followed up by our government in a short time as soon as it came to power, and today it has been completed for the public at a cost of Rs. 180 crore." Delhi Minister Parvesh Verma told ANI that the government was committed to improving connectivity across the Yamuna region. "Whatever flyovers and roads need to be built across the Yamuna Paar to streamline the traffic flow, the Delhi government will undertake all these works... There is no shortage of funds," he said. Earlier on Thursday, Delhi CM flagged off a special CATS ambulance as part of the ongoing 'Seva Pakhwada' initiative, aimed at enhancing public health services. The Delhi government has dedicated 11 advanced CATS ambulances, equipped with high-quality medical equipment, to serve the city's residents. Speaking to the media, CM Gupta announced plans to introduce 53 additional ambulances by October. "Through the Health Ministry, the Delhi government has provided several new services to the people of Delhi. 'Sewa Pakhwada' is currently underway, and under this initiative, we have dedicated 11 CATS ambulances to the people of Delhi. These ambulances are equipped with high-quality equipment and will benefit the residents of Delhi. By October, we will add 53 more ambulances to this," she said. She also highlighted efforts to support Prime Minister Narendra Modi's mission to eradicate tuberculosis (TB) by providing advanced medical equipment to hospitals in Delhi. Additionally, the Delhi government has launched an online organ donation portal to facilitate the organ donation process. "We have to eradicate TB from the entire country; for the Prime Minister's mission, we have provided various machines to various hospitals in Delhi... We have done another major task. The Delhi government has also launched its online organ donation portal from today," she added. The Bharatiya Janata Party launched a two-week-long Seva Pakhwada on the occasion of PM Modi's birthday, which will conclude on Mahatma Gandhi's birth anniversary on October 2. (ANI) Alleging that Ladakh's amazing people, culture, and traditions are "under attack by the BJP and RSS," Congress MP and Lok Sabha LoP Rahul Gandhi on Sunday asked the Centre to "give them the 6th Schedule." A total of 44 people have been arrested, including activist Sonam Wangchuk, in connection with the September 24 violence in Leh, in which four people were killed. Wangchuk, the main voice behind the demand for the 6th Schedule for Ladakh, was on a hunger strike, which he ended right after the violence unfolded. In a post on X, Gandhi said, "Ladakh's amazing people, culture, and traditions are under attack by the BJP and RSS. Ladakhis asked for a voice. The BJP responded by killing 4 young men and jailing Sonam Wangchuk. Stop the killing. Stop the violence. Stop the intimidation. Give Ladakh a voice. Give them the 6th Schedule." https://x.com/RahulGandhi/status/1972226759182655617 On September 26, two days after the death of four people amid firing by police during violent protests in the Union Territory, Wangchuk was detained under the provisions of the National Security Act (NSA) and lodged in Jodhpur jail in Rajasthan. The climate activist has been accused of "inciting violence". Addressing a press conference in Leh on Saturday, Director General of Police (DGP) Ladakh, SD Singh Jamwal said that the police have nabbed the main orchestrators of the violence, including activist Sonam Wangchuk. He said, "We have arrested 44 people so far...The main ring leaders have been nabbed. Sonam Wangchuk, the main player, has been sent out under NSA charges." The official alleged activist Sonam Wangchuk's connection with Pakistan and questioned his visits to the neighbouring countries. He said, "We arrested a Pakistan PIO in the recent past who was reporting back across. We have a record of this. He (Sonam Wanghchuk) had attended a Dawn event in Pakistan. He also visited Bangladesh. So, there is a big question mark on him...Investigation is being done." Sonam Wangchuk has been lodged in Jodhpur Central Jail following his detention under the provisions of the National Security Act (NSA), officials said. Wangchuk's arrest comes amid chaos over the recent protests in Leh. The protests turned violent in Leh on September 24, following which the BJP office in the area was set on fire. (ANI) Paatali Makkal Katchi (PMK) chief Anbumani Ramadoss on Sunday said that, "everybody has to take the blame" from the police and the political party to the general public who attended the event with children and women, on the Karur stampede during actor Vijay's rally in Karur, which has claimed over 40 lives. Visiting the injured in hospitals, Ramadoss described the incident as "very unfortunate" and stressed that it could have been avoided. "It is very unfortunate that an incident happened in Karur, a stampede happened during the rally of actor Vijay. And till now, more than 40 people have died. I have come to visit the injured in the hospital. We are very saddened by this incident. It should have been avoided, and it could have been avoided," Ramadoss told ANI. He added, "And right now I don't want to pin the blame on anybody, but everybody has to take the blame, right from the police, right from the political party and also the general public as well, who attended that meeting along with children and women." Ramadoss further emphasised that the stampede reflected a failure of police intelligence. He said, "I believe this is a failure of police intelligence. They should have been more responsible and anticipated the crowd. They have given permission in a very narrow street...The movie culture in Tamil Nadu, I think, is something that we need to address..." The death toll from the stampede at actor Vijay's political rally for the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) in Tamil Nadu's Karur on Saturday evening has risen to 40. The massive crowd at Vijay's rally reportedly turned chaotic, triggering panic. Several attendees fainted and were rushed to nearby hospitals. Sources had said that overcrowding at the venue led to the tragedy. Chief Minister MK Stalin visited the Government Medical College and Hospital in Karur late Saturday night, met the injured, and paid tribute to those who lost their lives. He announced compensation of Rs 10 lakh for each family of the deceased and Rs 1 lakh for each person undergoing treatment. The Chief Minister further announced the formation of a one-member Commission of Inquiry, headed by retired High Court Judge Justice Aruna Jagadeesan, to conduct a thorough investigation and submit a report to the government. Meanwhile, TVK chief and actor Vijay announced financial assistance of Rs 20 lakh for each bereaved family and Rs 2 lakh for the injured. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also announced ex-gratia payments from the Prime Minister's National Relief Fund. He also announced an amount of Rs 50,000 each for the people injured in the tragic incident. "PM Narendra Modi has announced an ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh from PMNRF to be given to the next of kin of each deceased in the unfortunate incident at a political rally in Karur, Tamil Nadu. The injured would be given Rs 50,000," the PMO posted on X. Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara expressed condolences over the tragedy, calling it unfortunate and emphasising the need for better security arrangements at large gatherings. Speaking in Tumakuru, he said, "More security should have been provided for such programs. I do not know how the organizers and security were organized for that program, and I cannot comment on it...It is not right for me to comment without knowing about that incident. He said that more security has been taken for the program to be held in Tumkur for the Tumkur Dasara program," Parameshwara said. (ANI) Union Minister L Murugan on Sunday expressed condolences to the families affected by the Karur stampede that left 40 people dead and several others injured. While speaking to the media here, the union minister said, "We extend our deepest condolences to the families affected by the tragic incident in Karur. Union Home Minister Amit Shah has spoken with Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin regarding the situation and assured him that the Centre is ready to provide all necessary assistance. He has also sought an explanation from the concerned officials." Meanwhile, the death toll from the stampede at actor Vijay's political rally for the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) in Karur on Saturday evening has risen to 40. On Saturday, the massive crowd at Vijay's rally reportedly turned chaotic, triggering panic. Several attendees fainted and were rushed to nearby hospitals. Sources had said that overcrowding at the venue led to the tragedy. Retired High Court judge Aruna Jagadeesan, appointed by the Tamil Nadu government to lead a one-member Commission of Inquiry into the Karur stampede, landed at Trichy airport on Sunday evening. From Trichy airport, she travelled to Karur by road. In a brief interaction with the media after reaching Karur, she said, "The commission has been set up to address shortcomings. Incidents like this should not occur in the future, and the necessary remedial measures will be taken." Earlier today, DMDK President Premalatha Vijayakanth targeted the DMK-led Tamil Nadu government and TVK chief Vijay following the Karur stampede that claimed 40 lives and injured others, citing a lack of basic and adequate security arrangements. Addressing a press conference, Premalatha claimed that TVK chief Vijay arrived at the venue at 7 pm, while people had started gathering since 9 am, and there was no arrangement for the crowd. Expressing grief over the stampede, she further said September 27 was a "black day" for Tamil Nadu. (ANI) Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, during a media interaction at the BJP state office on the "Self-Reliant India -- Swadeshi Pledge: Every Home Swadeshi, Every Household Swadeshi" program, spoke about the significance of swadeshi. According to a CMO, CM Dhami emphasised that swadeshi is not just a slogan, but the foundation of a self-reliant and developed India. It is a way of life rooted in our ancient, eternal culture. As per the release, CM Dhami stated that the campaign will strengthen the commitment made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to achieve a self-reliant India by 2047. The pledge of swadeshi also reflects respect for our farmers, artisans, small traders, and entrepreneurs. Swadeshi is not merely a means for economic strength; it is a symbol of love and dedication to our motherland. By embracing swadeshi, we connect not only to our land but also strengthen our economy. The Chief Minister highlighted the historical significance of the Swadeshi movement in energising the freedom struggle. Leaders like Lokmanya Tilak, Mahatma Gandhi, and Maharshi Aurobindo demonstrated that swadeshi was the foundation of nation-building. Post-independence, figures such as Dattopant Thengadi and Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya carried forward an economy based on swadeshi principles. He further mentioned that on August 15, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation from the Red Fort, announcing a revision in GST rates that came into effect from Navratri on September 22. This move has benefited both traders and the common people. The Chief Minister stated that he has personally interacted with traders and consumers across various locations to understand the benefits, and the response has been overwhelmingly positive. He noted that Prime Minister Modi has championed self-reliance through initiatives such as "Vocal for Local" and "Make in India." CM Dhami stated that today, swadeshi extends beyond khadi and traditional lamps. It encompasses modern technologies such as the BrahMos missile, Tejas aircraft, semiconductors, Digital India, and UPI. Its impact was evident in Operation Sindhur, which targeted terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan. The COVID-19 crisis further showcased India's indigenous capabilities, with PPE kits and vaccines now being produced domestically rather than imported. He highlighted initiatives in Uttarakhand, such as the establishment of the umbrella brand "House of Himalayas" to market local products, which maintains high quality despite limited resources. The "One District, One Product" scheme is also supporting grassroots efforts. Farmers and cultivators are playing a vital role in the journey toward a self-reliant India by producing honey, mandua, jhangora, ragi, spices, and medicinal plants. The Chief Minister emphasised the promotion of self-employment and small industries in rural areas, as well as encouraging youth to adopt swadeshi entrepreneurship through startups and digital platforms. Under the "Every Home Swadeshi" campaign, awareness will be generated throughout Uttarakhand. He urged the people of Uttarakhand and all citizens of India to prioritise swadeshi products during Navratri, Dussehra, Diwali, and weddings when purchasing everyday items. CM Dhami concluded by stating that to realise the vision of a self-reliant and developed India, we must adopt swadeshi and ensure that most of the products we use are locally made. These collective efforts will guide us toward achieving a self-reliant India. He added that the time has come for everyone to wholeheartedly embrace and internalise Prime Minister Narendra Modi's mantra of "Make in India, Make for the World." (ANI) Copyright 1995 - . All rights reserved. The content (including but not limited to text, photo, multimedia information, etc) published in this site belongs to China Daily Information Co (CDIC). Without written authorization from CDIC, such content shall not be republished or used in any form. Note: Browsers with 1024*768 or higher resolution are suggested for this site. 0108263 License for publishing multimedia online Registration Number: 130349 Registration Number: 130349 The arrested operatives have been identified as Akashdeep Singh alias Tony and Pawanbir Singh. In a post on X, DGP Punjab Police Gaurav Yadav wrote, "In a major breakthrough, Counter Intelligence #Amritsar busts a cross-border narcotics smuggling module with links to #Pakistan & arrests two operatives Akashdeep Singh @ Tony, & Pawanbir Singh and recover 4 Kg Heroin." https://x.com/dgppunjabpolice/status/1972257893949841614?s=46 As per the initial investigation, the arrested accused were acting upon the directions of Pakistan-based smuggler Rana King and smuggling consignments from across the border. An FIR has been registered in the case, and further investigation is underway in the matter. The post reads, "Preliminary investigation reveals that the arrested accused were acting upon the directions of Pakistan-based smuggler Rana King, he smuggled consignments from across the border & further redistributed the consignments to his Indian associates." "FIR registered at PS #SSOC, Amritsar. Further investigation is underway to expose the full nexus, including the backward and forward linkages of the network. @PunjabPoliceInd remains steadfast in its resolve to dismantle drug trafficking networks and ensure a safer, drug-free #Punjab," it added. Earlier today, in a significant step to empower citizens and strengthen the fight against organised crime, DGP Yadav on Sunday launched a dedicated, toll-free helpline 1800-330-1100 for the public to report organised crimes, including intimidation, extortion, and gangster-related activities, anonymously. According to an official release, this helpline has been activated by the Punjab Police's Anti-Gangster Task Force (AGTF) to provide citizens with a direct and confidential channel to report organised crime. To ensure the helpline's effectiveness, the DGP made a trial call to 1800-330-1100 during the inauguration and interacted with the representative to understand the working of the new system. (ANI) BJP MP Manoj Tiwari on Sunday launched a scathing attack on opposition Congress and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), saying that both parties are like a "dangerous drug" to the public and collude only for power. Speaking to ANI, the BJP MP said, "AAP is a sword for the public... it pierces someone's stomach or chest. The same is true of Rahul Gandhi and the Congress Party... They are like a dangerous drug to the public. Their opposition to each other is also a play. They can meet at any time, but their hearts are not united. They try to collude only for power..." Tiwari also targeted former Delhi Minister and AAP leader Satyendra Jain over the newly inaugurated Nand Nagri flyover, saying, "I had given a plan of this (Nand Nagri) flyover and the Shastri Park flyover to Satyendra Jain... He told me that Tiwari ji, get the CBI to make it, because the CBI was after him since he does wrong deeds..." Earlier today, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta inaugurated the newly constructed flyover at Nand Nagri, stating that the long-pending project has been completed in a short span under her government's tenure. Speaking to the reporters, CM Gupta said, "The work, which was pending for years, was followed up by our government in a short time as soon as it came to power, and today it has been completed for the public at a cost of Rs 180 crore." Delhi Minister Parvesh Verma also told ANI that the government was committed to improving connectivity across the Yamuna region. "Whatever flyovers and roads need to be built across the Yamuna Paar to streamline the traffic flow, the Delhi government will undertake all these works... There is no shortage of funds," he said. (ANI) Leader of the Opposition in Bihar and RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav on Sunday launched a sharp attack on the state and central governments, questioning the financial viability of the recently announced Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana. He sought clarity on the revenue strategy required to meet such an ambitious scheme. Speaking to reporters in Patna, the former Deputy Chief Minister said, "This is not our question; it is a question of the people of Bihar. We would like to know from the Prime Minister and the Chief Minister that the budget allocated, along with the announcements made, exceeds Rs 7 lakh crore. How will you make this possible? What is your revenue generation, and if in the future there is a need for more revenue, how will you fulfil it? This is a very simple question of mine." Yadav also raised concerns about corruption, alleging that despite repeated demands for accountability, no significant action had been taken against those involved in corruption. "I had raised questions on the corrupt people, whether any action has been taken against anyone or not," he asked. The Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday, during which he directly transferred Rs 10,000 each into the bank accounts of 75 lakh women across Bihar, totalling Rs 7,500 crore. Under the scheme, each beneficiary will receive an initial grant of Rs 10,000 via Direct Benefit Transfer, with the possibility of additional financial support of up to Rs 2 lakh in subsequent phases. The assistance can be utilised in areas of the beneficiary's choice, including agriculture, animal husbandry, handicrafts, tailoring, weaving, and other small-scale enterprises. Earlier, Tejashwi Yadav had also labelled the NDA-led Bihar government a "copycat" and alleged that the Rs 10,000 granted under the scheme was effectively a loan that would later be recovered. However, Tejashwi Yadav on Thursday promised to launch the "Mai Bahin Maan Yojana" across Bihar if his party comes to power, declaring that "change is bound to happen" in the poll-bound state. While interacting with reporters, Tejashwi said, "The Maa Yojana will be started, and the Beti Yojana will be started. The Mai Bahin Maan Yojana will be started. A large number of women from every block and panchayat in Bihar have gathered, indicating a strong desire for change. This time, everyone wants change, and change will happen." The Mai Bahin Maan Yojana is an electoral promise by the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) and Congress in Bihar, India. The scheme promises a monthly financial assistance of Rs 2,500 to women in financially vulnerable and backward communities if the coalition forms the government in the upcoming 2025 Bihar Assembly elections. (ANI) BJP leader K. Annamalai on Sunday demanded a CBI investigation into the Karur rally stampede that killed 40 people, blaming alleged lapses by the state police and local administration for the tragedy. Speaking to reporters, Annamalai said the state police and intelligence should have anticipated the size of the crowd and deployed adequate security. "It is not Vijay's fault. It is for the state police and intelligence to anticipate the crowd and deploy the police force adequately. Why did the police give them permission for 7 hours? Give it for 2 hours... As the Tamil Nadu BJP, we are demanding a CBI inquiry. The state CM wants a one-man former judge inquiry commission, and he also handpicked the judge. How can it be a fair inquiry?" he said. The massive crowd at Vijay's rally on Saturday reportedly turned chaotic, triggering panic. Several attendees fainted and were rushed to nearby hospitals. Sources had said that overcrowding at the venue led to the tragedy. Highlighting the shortcomings of the venue and security arrangements, Annamalai added, "On behalf of the Karur BJP, we have announced a compensation of Rs 1 lakh for each of the deceased... The place where the function took place yesterday is unfit to accommodate even 5,000 people... The state police says 500 people were deployed.We don't believe that. The real ground-level police officers were fewer than 100 in number.The local administration's failure has contributed to an episode of this nature. Vijay has every right to go anywhere in Tamil Nadu and campaign." He further said, "The government utterly failed yesterday... There were hardly 100 policemen on the ground. The complete responsibility and failure lie with the local and state administrations.TVK and Vijay also have to take responsibility for how the yatra was designed... For no more lives to be lost, Vijay and TVK have to rectify their mistakes, and the state government has to take 100% ownership for the utter failure of intelligence and deployment of manpower." Annamalai also urged Vijay to exercise greater responsibility during public events. "Here, the government failed in its responsibility as an honest broker... Vijay must understand that, as a cinema star transitioning into politics, he needs to be more responsible in his approach... Why did 10 children die? When you hold rallies on a weekend, more children will come with their mothers... You intentionally schedule it for a weekend because you want a larger crowd to attend... The design of this people's meet itself is faulty... Vijay should be on the ground and face this," he said. Earlier in the day, Tamil Nadu ADGP (Law and Order) S Davidson Devasirvatham responded to the Karur stampede, asserting that it was not an "intelligence failure" and that adequate arrangements had been made for Vijay's political rally. The ADGP said that street lighting was sufficient at the venue but acknowledged that certain conditions for crowd management had been violated. Speaking to the media, he said, "...they (TVK) requested permission to conduct this event at a place called Light House Raundana. This was not accepted by the police because it was considered a high-risk place, with a petrol pump on the left and the Amaravati River bridge on the right. So the officers decided it was not advisable to give permission there. They requested another location, which was also inspected, and they were informed that the number of people they planned to bring could not be accommodated there. As an alternative, we suggested this place because a political party had recently organised an event there with approximately 12,000 to 15,000 people, and it had passed off very peacefully. So, they also went and saw the place. Finally, they agreed." "They gave us in writing that we could be allowed to hold the event there... No, it was not an intelligence failure... There were adequate streetlights there... Yes, some conditions were violated. A case has been registered, and the investigation will reveal who is involved," the ADGP added. (ANI) Telangana Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Ramchander Rao on Sunday said he found Prime Minister Narendra Modi's latest Mann Ki Baat episode inspiring, emphasising that the "nation first" principle should guide every citizen. Speaking to ANI, Rao said, "Today's episode has inspired everyone to keep the nation first. After the nation, it should be the family, the party, or an individual, but first should always be the nation." He added that the programme also encouraged people to protect the environment, support local artisans, and preserve indigenous handicrafts. "This was a message given to all of us, to protect the environment and society, and to protect local handicrafts professionals, who sell and produce the handicrafts indigenously, so all these things have inspired us to move towards Swadeshi," Rao said. The BJP Telangana president further declared that the party is committed to promoting the "nation first" message across the state. "The nation's first was the central theme of the episode. We are determined to take this advice and take it forward among the people of Telangana," he added. Earlier in the day, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta also urged people to buy and sell only indigenous products, calling it essential for 'Atmanirbhar Bharat.' Commenting on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's message, Gupta said, "There are many things that the Prime Minister says, and every statement has its own meaning. Every statement is inspiring. In this episode today, it is very important to celebrate Diwali with indigenous products. Buy indigenous products and sell only indigenous ones. This is very necessary for Atmanirbhar Bharat." Earlier, PM Modi urged citizens to support Swadeshi products, especially Khadi, ahead of Gandhi Jayanti on October 2. In the 126th episode of Mann Ki Baat, he recalled that Mahatma Gandhi had emphasised the adoption of Swadeshi, with Khadi at the forefront. "Unfortunately, after independence, the charm of Khadi was fading, but in the last 11 years, the attraction of the people of the country towards Khadi has increased significantly. Khadi sales have seen a huge increase in the last few years. I urge all of you to buy some Khadi products on October 2nd. Say with pride that these are Swadeshi. Also share it on social media with Vocal for Local," the Prime Minister said. (ANI) The celebrations began on September 27 at the iconic Ridge Maidan, where the Indian Army Symphony Band enthralled the audience with a powerful repertoire of military and popular tunes. The performance, aimed at promoting camaraderie and community engagement, drew large crowds and received high praise from Lieutenant General Devendra Sharma, PVSM, AVSM, SM, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, ARTRAC, who felicitated the musicians. Lt Gen Sharma on Sunday flagged off the 'Run for Excellence', a 3-kilometre uphill stretch from the Indian Institute of Advanced Studies to Ridge Maidan. Troops, families, and children enthusiastically participated, showcasing unity, pride, and fitness. The event concluded with a lively Zumba session led by fitness trainer Miss Varsha. Speaking on the occasion, Lt Gen Sharma underscored the importance of physical fitness in today's digital age and reiterated ARTRAC's commitment to the Fit India initiative. The Raising Day, which officially fall on October 1, underscore ARTRAC's role in fostering unity within the armed forces and strengthening bonds with the local community. ARTRAC is one of the seven commands of the Indian Army, overseeing institutionalised training through 34 establishments across the country. Earlier, the valiant soldiers of the Indian Army's Spear Corps successfully summited Mount Gorichen (6,488 meters) on September 19, the highest scalable peak in Arunachal Pradesh. This remarkable achievement stands as a testament to their discipline, endurance, and unyielding spirit in one of the most challenging terrains of the Eastern Himalayas. According to an official release, the expedition was launched with the dual objectives of fostering adventure and instilling resilience, while also reinforcing the Army's commitment to preserving the natural sanctity of the region. Facing harsh winds, icy ridges, and thin air at extreme altitude, the team showcased exceptional teamwork and unwavering determination, ultimately standing victorious atop the "Roof of Arunachal." (ANI) Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Sunday listened to the 126th episode of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Mann Ki Baat at Parvati Prema Jagati Saraswati Vihar Ground, Birbhatti, Nainital. The Chief Minister stated that this programme offers the nation a new vision and a positive direction. The Chief Minister stated that through Mann Ki Baat, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has successfully connected with people at the grassroots level. He has brought the hard work and dedication of individuals working in the public interest to the attention of every citizen. The Chief Minister added that the Prime Minister, through this programme, has emphasised honouring women's power and taking a pledge to adopt Swadeshi, a release. He further mentioned that on the occasion of Gandhi Jayanti on 2nd October, the Prime Minister has called upon people to adopt Khadi and Swadeshi products. The Prime Minister urged everyone to purchase at least one Khadi product on 2nd October and share it on social media with the hashtag #VocalForLocal. The Chief Minister also appealed to the people of the state to actively participate in this campaign. CM Dhami said that the Prime Minister has honoured the daughters of India who created history by completing the challenging 47,500 km Navika Sagar Parikrama. The Prime Minister also spoke about promoting innovation through local products. The Chief Minister added that the resolve laid out by the Prime Minister to fulfil the dream of a developed India must be accomplished collectively by all. Earlier today, in the 126th episode of his monthly radio address, 'Mann Ki Baat', PM Modi hailed two brave women officers of the Indian Navy who successfully completed the extraordinary sailing expedition, 'Navika Sagar Parikrama', which circumnavigated the Globe, demonstrating courage and determination throughout the expedition. "Two brave officers of the Indian Navy have demonstrated courage and determination during the Navika Sagar Parikrama. I would like to introduce the listeners of 'Mann Ki Baat' to these two brave officers. One is Lieutenant Commander Dilna, and the other is Lieutenant Commander Roopa," he said. PM Modi also urged citizens to make the upcoming festive season more meaningful by opting for indigenous products. (ANI) Karnataka BJP president BY Vijayendra on Sunday condemned the Karur stampede that claimed 40 lives and urged the Tamil Nadu government to act against those responsible. "What happened yesterday at Karur is a very big tragedy. More than 40 innocent lives have been lost. My deepest condolences to them... I urge and demand that the government of Tamil Nadu take necessary actions against those responsible for this..." Vijayendra told ANI. He added that both the government and the organisers must be held accountable. "I'm unsure whether the lapse is on the part of the government or the organiser. So it is a responsibility of both..." he said. Vijayendra also spoke about the India-Pakistan Asia Cup final in Dubai, calling it "a dream come true for crores of Indians" and expressing confidence that India would win. "It's a dream come true for crores of Indians. India and Pakistan will face off in the finals today in Dubai. I wish all the best to our great Indian team, and we are confident that India will emerge victorious," he added. Earlier in the day, DMK MP Kanimozhi Karunanidhi visited the Government Medical College in Karur and met with those injured in the stampede. She emphasised that political parties must strictly adhere to the conditions for holding rallies. "The Chief Minister has ensured that the district missionary and the party missionary are here to support... Even if the Prime Minister or the Chief Minister comes for a political rally, the party has to follow certain conditions. There's no one above it..." Kanimozhi told reporters. She further mentioned that a commission has been appointed by the Chief Minister, MK Stalin, on the Karur stampede. "A one-woman commission has been appointed by the CM in this matter... Let her report come out..." added Kanimozhi. The death toll from the stampede at actor Vijay's political rally for the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) in Tamil Nadu's Karur on Saturday evening has risen to 40. Karur Collector M Thangavel confirmed on Sunday that at least 40 people died in the incident. The state government announced immediate relief measures, including a compensation of Rs 10 lakh for the families of the deceased and Rs 1 lakh for those undergoing medical treatment. Emergency teams and doctors were deployed to provide urgent care, and hospital facilities were strengthened with additional beds to manage the influx of patients. Addressing a press conference alongside ADGP (Law and Order) S Davidson Devasirvatham, the Collector said, "A total of 40 people have died in the stampede so far. The Chief Minister arrived immediately at night and ordered proper treatment for the injured. He announced a compensation of Rs 10 lakh for the deceased and Rs 1 lakh for those receiving treatment. A help desk has been opened at the hospital... The Tamil Nadu government has taken steps to prevent further deaths." The massive crowd at Vijay's rally reportedly turned chaotic, triggering panic. Several attendees fainted and were rushed to nearby hospitals. Sources had said that overcrowding at the venue led to the tragedy. Chief Minister MK Stalin visited the Government Medical College and Hospital in Karur late Saturday night, met the injured, and paid tribute to those who lost their lives. He announced compensation of Rs 10 lakh for each family of the deceased and Rs 1 lakh for each person undergoing treatment. The Chief Minister further announced the formation of a one-member Commission of Inquiry, headed by retired High Court Judge Justice Aruna Jagadeesan, to conduct a thorough investigation and submit a report to the government. Meanwhile, TVK chief and actor Vijay announced financial assistance of Rs 20 lakh for each bereaved family and Rs 2 lakh for the injured. (ANI) The JKPCC President Tariq Hameed Karra addressed the Ladakh protests on Sunday. Speaking to mediapersons, he claimed that this ongoing agitation is a result of five years of deceit and unfulfilled commitments. "The current agitation is a result of the deceit of the last five years and the unfulfillment of commitments..." Karra told reporters. During the discussion of the Ladakh agitation and its resulting violence, Karra alleged that the current protesters were the same individuals who had celebrated the abrogation of Article 370 and had been utilised by the government during that time. "Today, we want to address a very sensitive and nationally significant issue: the situation in Ladakh. Four people have already died, and around 90 have been injured... Those protesting against the Government of India and local administration are the same individuals who were used by the government during the abrogation of Article 370. They were happy when Article 370 was abrogated..." said Karra. Earlier today, Congress MP and Lok Sabha Leader of the Opposition Rahul Gandhi asked the Centre to "give them the 6th Schedule." He alleged that Ladakh's people, culture, and traditions are "under attack by the BJP and RSS." In a post on X, Gandhi said, "Ladakh's amazing people, culture, and traditions are under attack by the BJP and RSS. Ladakhis asked for a voice. The BJP responded by killing four young men and jailing Sonam Wangchuk. Stop the killing. Stop the violence. Stop the intimidation. Give Ladakh a voice. Give them the 6th Schedule." Meanwhile, a total of 44 people have been arrested in connection with the violence that occurred in Leh on September 24, which resulted in the deaths of four individuals. Among those arrested is Sonam Wangchuk, a prominent activist and advocate for the implementation of the 6th Schedule in Ladakh. He had been on a hunger strike, which he ended just as the violence broke out. Later on September 26, two days after the police fired during the protests, leading to the deaths, Wangchuk was detained under the National Security Act (NSA) and is currently being held in Jodhpur jail in Rajasthan. He has been accused of inciting violence. (ANI) Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy inaugurated Batukamma Kunta Lake at Amberpet in Hyderabad on Sunday. CM Reddy appealed to the people to extend all kinds of support, regardless of politics, to the prestigious Musi Rejuvenation project, which aims to revive the extinct River Musi and protect the city from future flood fury, a Telangana CMO release said. Speaking after the inauguration of the revived Batukamma Kunta Lake at Amberpet, the Chief Minister said that Hyderabad was equipped to handle flood situations when the city received no more than 2 cm of rain. After the Covid pandemic, climate change caused frequent cloud bursts. The state government anticipated the flood situation and prepared plans to strengthen infrastructure and environmental protection, the CM said. The Telangana CMO stated that the chief minister also emphasised the importance of reviving the Musi, which had become a dumping ground due to the neglect of previous governments. CM Revanth Reddy said that " our government is moving forward to protect water bodies and revive the abandoned lakes and ponds under the Musi project." The Chief Minister also urged the people to support the government in its great cause of reviving the Musi and protecting the city from future natural calamities. We are already witnessing the submergence of habitations in the Musi catchment area within one hour of rain in the city. Additionally, the Chief Minister instructed Hyderabad incharge Minister Ponnam Prabhakar to conduct a field visit and prepare proposals for the rehabilitation of the poor in the Musi catchment areas in the Amberpet area. He also called for the development of Amberpet without any political agenda. The Telangana CMO stated that the chief minister also appealed to the poor to avoid trouble by refraining from purchasing government assets from the land mafia at cheaper prices. The CM said that the government always stands by the poorer sections. " We are aware of the plight of the poor, unlike the opposition, which considers poverty as an excuse for them in politics ". CM Revanth Reddy also noted that the purpose of establishing HYDRAA is to protect water bodies and remove encroachments. The Telangana CMO stated that the government had earlier faced backlash. However, they moved against all odds to implement the project. Stating that the active participation of women will only fulfil the main objective of the Batukamma festivities, the Chief Minister said that the government is committed to promoting Hyderabad at the international level. The CM also instructed the authorities to prepare proposals to name the Batukamma Kunta after Congress senior leader V Hanumantha Rao, as suggested by local MLA K Venkatesh. The Chief Minister hailed Hanumantha Rao for putting in all efforts to revive the famous water body in Amberpet. On the suggestion of Hanumantha Rao, the State Government named Pragathi Bhavan after Jyothi Rao Phule. (ANI) Governor C.V. Ananda Bose joined devotees at the Durga Puja festivities on Southern Avenue in South Kolkata, praying for the blessings of Goddess Durga to all residents of Bengal on the auspicious occasion. Speaking on the occasion, the Governor said,"On this auspicious occasion of puja, I pray to God Almighty to shower her blessings on each person of Bengal." Earlier today, Secretary of the Agarpara Tarapukur Adi Sarvajanin Durgotsav Committee, Arpan Ghosh, stated that this year's Durga Puja theme is inspired by the Kumbh, one of the most notable events of 2025, which will highlight India's rich cultural heritage and legacy. Ghosh also mentioned that Goddess Maa Durga is depicted meditating in her Yogini form. "In the year 2025, Kumbh was one of the most notable events that happened. Since Kumbh showcases India's rich cultural heritage and legacy, we created this pandal with that theme... It (the idol of Goddess Durga as a meditating yogini) is fully made of silicon, and it is also one of our special attractions... Here, Maa is depicted in a mediating state. Since Kumbh is a religious festival, showing her in this state aims to portray Maa as a 'Yogini'," he said. Now in its 86th year, the Agarpara Tarapukur Adi Sarvajanin Durgotsav Committee has chosen the theme 'Kumbh,' showcasing a silicon idol of Goddess Durga in a meditating posture. Durga Puja was included in UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2021. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while recalling the recognition, said, "Some time ago, on account of similar efforts by the Government of India, Kolkata's Durga Puja also became a part of this UNESCO list. If we accord our cultural events such global recognition, the world will also know about them, understand them, and come forward to participate in them." PM Modi added that Kolkata's Durga Puja being included in the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list shows how giving global recognition to Indian festivals allows the world to learn about and join in such celebrations. Durga Puja, also known as Durgotsava or Sharodotsava, honours Goddess Durga and commemorates her victory over Mahishasur. As per Hindu belief, the goddess descends to her earthly abode during this time to bless her devotees. (ANI) Union Home Minister Amit Shah addressed the valedictory session of 'Bharat Manthan-2025: Naxal Mukt Bharat - Ending Red Terror Under Modi's Leadership' in New Delhi on Sunday. Home Minister Shah stated that there was a time when the slogan of the Red Corridor, which stretched from Pashupatinath to Tirupati, caused concern, but today, people laugh when it is mentioned. According to the Ministry of Home Affairs' official release, the Union Home Minister stated that a significant transformation has occurred during the 10-year tenure of the Modi government. He stated that Naxalism and armed rebellion began in the early 1970s. In 1971, independent India witnessed a peak of 3,620 violent incidents. Subsequently, in the 1980s, the People's War Group expanded its reach to Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Chhattisgarh, Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, Bihar, and Kerala. He added that after the 1980s, Left-wing groups started merging with each other, and in 2004, the major CPI (Maoist) group was formed, leading to Naxal violence taking a very serious form. He said that the corridor from Pashupati to Tirupati was known as the Red Corridor. Amit Shah said that 17 percent of the country's territory was encompassed by the Red Corridor, affecting a population of 120 million. At that time, 10 percent of the population was living under the scourge of Naxalism. Shah said that in comparison, the other two hotspots - Kashmir, with 1 percent of the country's territory affected by terrorism, and the Northeast, with 3.3 percent of the territory grappling with unrest - were less extensive. He emphasized that internal security and the protection of the nation's borders have always been a core part of our ideology. He further said that three key objectives have been central to our party's mission: internal and external security of the country, cultural nationalism, and the revival of all aspects of Indian culture. Union Home Minister paid his respects to all those who sacrificed their lives, lost their loved ones, and endured physical and mental hardships due to Left-wing violence since the 1960s. He said that Naxalism thrived in West Bengal until the Left parties came to power, and as soon as they did, Naxalism disappeared from there. He said that for nearly four to five decades, thousands of people had lost their lives due to the unrest that emerged and spread in these three regions, there was significant property damage, a large portion of the country's budget was diverted from the development of the poor to managing these hotspots, and security forces also suffered immense loss of life. He stated that upon becoming Prime Minister, Narendra Modi focused on these three hotspots and worked based on a clear, long-term strategy. Amit Shah said that 17 percent of the country's territory was encompassed by the Red Corridor, affecting a population of 120 million. At that time, 10 percent of the population was living under the scourge of Naxalism.Shah said that in comparison, the other two hotspots--Kashmir, with 1 percent of the country's territory affected by terrorism, and the Northeast, with 3.3 percent of the territory grappling with unrest--were less extensive. He said that when Narendra Modi became Prime Minister in 2014, the Modi government began working on the three aspects of dialogue, security, and coordination. As a result, by March 31, 2026, armed Naxalism will be eradicated from the country. HM said that whereas earlier work was done with a scattered approach, responses were incident-based and there was no permanent policy. In a way, one could say the steering of the government's response was in the hands of the Naxalites. Shah said that after 2014 the steering of the government's campaigns and programmes rests with the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India and this is a very significant policy change. Amit Shah said that instead of a scattered approach, the Modi government has adopted a unified and ruthless approach. He added that the policy of our government is to roll out the red carpet and welcome those who wish to surrender by laying down their arms, but if anyone takes up arms to kill innocent tribals, the government's duty is to protect the innocent tribals and to confront the armed Naxalites. Amit Shah said that for the first time, the Government of India adopted a clear policy without any confusion. He said that the state police and central security forces were given freedom, and a practical bridge was built between the Government of India and the state governments for coordination in intelligence, information sharing, and operations. He added that strict control was imposed on the supply of arms and ammunition of Naxalites. After 2019, we have succeeded in blocking more than 90 per cent of their supply. He said that the NIA and the ED have tightened the noose around those who finance the Naxalites, and that we have also fought against urban Naxal support, their legal aid networks, and the crafting of media narratives. He said we took targeted action against members of the central committee, and more than 18 central committee members have been neutralized from August 19 to this date. The Home Minister said the security vacuum has also been filled, and targeted operations such as Operation Octopus and Operation Double Bull were carried out. He added that joint training of the DRG, STF, CRPF and COBRA units has also been initiated. The four now carry out operations together and their chain of command is now clear. He said integrated training has made a big difference to our success. Alongside this, forensic investigations were started, a location-tracking system was made available, mobile-phone activity was shared with state police, scientific call-log analysis software was developed, and social-media analysis was used to uncover their hidden supporters. This not only sped up the anti-Naxal campaign but also made it more successful and result-oriented. Union Home Minister said that after 2019, emphasis was also placed on capacity building of states. Under the SRE and SIS schemes, approximately 3,331 crore was released, reflecting a 55 percent increase. Through this, fortified police stations were expanded, with around 1,741 crore spent on them. He stated that over the last six years, the Modi government established 336 new CAPF camps to address the security vacuum. As a result, compared to the period of 2004-14, the period of 2014-24 saw a 73 percent reduction in security personnel deaths and a 74 percent reduction in civilian deaths. Shah said that earlier, success was elusive in Chhattisgarh due to the opposition government there. However, in 2024, after our government came to power, the highest number of Naxalites, 290, were neutralized in a single year. The Home Minister said that we do not want to kill anyone. Compared to the 290 Naxalites neutralized, 1,090 were arrested, and 881 surrendered. He stated that this reflects the government's approach. Every effort is made to give Naxalites the opportunity to surrender or be arrested. However, when Naxalites take up arms and set out to kill innocent Indian citizens, security forces have no choice but to respond with force. Shah said that in 2025, so far, 270 Naxalites have been neutralized, 680 have been arrested, and 1,225 have surrendered. In both years, the number of surrenders and arrests exceeds the number of those neutralized. The high number of surrenders indicates that the time left for Naxalites is now very limited. Amit Shah said that Naxalites had established a large camp at Karregutaa Hills on the Telangana-Chhattisgarh border, which housed a significant stockpile of weapons, two years' worth of rations, and factories for manufacturing weapons and IEDs, and was extremely difficult to access. He stated that on May 23, 2025, this camp was destroyed in Operation Black Forest, and 27 hardcore Naxalites were killed. Furthermore, 24 hardcore Naxalites were killed in Bijapur. The Home Minister said that through this operation, the backbone of the remaining Naxalites in Chhattisgarh was broken. Shah noted that among the Naxalites neutralized in 2024, 1 was Zonal Committee member, 5 Sub-Zonal Committee members, 2 State Committee members, 31 Divisional Committee members, and 59 Area Committee members. Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that from 1960 to 2014, there were a total of 66 fortified police stations, and in the 10 years of the Modi government, 576 new fortified police stations were established. In 2014, there were 126 Naxalite-affected districts, which have now reduced to 18. The number of most-affected districts has decreased from 36 to 6. The number of police stations has gone down from approximately 330 to 151, of which 41 are newly established. In the last six years, 336 security camps have been set up, and 68 helipads for night landings have been constructed. Moreover, 76 night-landing helipads have been built for CRPF personnel. He stated that to curb the financial resources of Naxalites, the NIA, ED, and state governments have seized properties worth crores of rupees. The Home Minister said that for coordination with state governments, 12 meetings with Chief Ministers have been held at his level, with 8 meetings specifically in Chhattisgarh. The Chhattisgarh government has introduced an attractive package for Naxalite surrenders. He added that several development initiatives have been undertaken in Left-Wing Extremist areas. The Home Minister remarked that wherever Leftist ideology has taken root globally, it has had an inseparable link with violence, and this is the root of Naxalism. Amit Shah said that those who propagate the idea that the root cause of Left-Wing Extremism is lack of development are misleading the nation. He said that Prime Minister Modi has launched numerous schemes for 60 crore poor people, but in Naxal-affected areas, who prevents these schemes from reaching the people? He asked, if schools have not reached Sukma or Bijapur, who is responsible? Why have roads not been built in Left-Wing dominated areas? Because the Naxalites killed the contractors. Shah asked why don't intellectuals who write lengthy articles advising the government write about the victimized tribals? Why is their empathy selective? He said that neither the supporters of the Naxalites want the development of the tribals, nor do they genuinely care for them. Instead, they are only concerned with keeping alive their ideology, which has been rejected across the world. Shah stated that the sole reason development has not reached these areas is the Leftist ideology. Union Home Minister said that the Naxalites first targeted the Constitution and then the judicial system. They created a constitutional vacuum, then attacked the very idea of the State, and created a vacuum of the State itself. He said that anyone who did not join them was branded as an informer of the State and sentenced to death in their so-called people's courts. They even established a parallel government. Shah said that for the welfare of the nation, it is necessary to rise above one's ideology. He added that it was precisely due to this governance vacuum that development, literacy, and healthcare facilities could not reach those areas. Union Home Minister said that during Operation Black Forest, Leftist political parties wrote letters pleading to stop the campaign, exposing their true face. He said that there will be no ceasefire with the Naxalites. If they want to surrender, there is no need for a ceasefire -- they should simply lay down their arms. The police will not fire a single shot and will reintegrate them. He said that as soon as Operation Black Forest began, all the covert sympathies of the Naxalites' supporters were exposed. Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that between 2014 and 2024, 12,000 kilometers of roads have been constructed in Left-Wing Extremism-affected states, budgets have been approved for 17,500 roads, and 5,000 mobile towers have been installed at a cost of 6,300 crore. He said that 1,060 bank branches have been opened, 937 ATMs installed, 37,850 banking correspondents appointed, 5,899 post offices opened, 850 schools established, and 186 well-equipped health centers set up. He further said that under the NiyadNellanar scheme, the Chhattisgarh government is working on approving Ayushman Bharat cards, Aadhaar cards, voter cards, the construction of schools, ration shops, and Anganwadi centers. Referring to insurgency in the Northeast, the Home Minister said that compared to 2004-2014, the period 2014-2024 has seen a 70 per cent reduction in the deaths of security personnel. Similarly, civilian deaths have dropped by 85 per cent in 2014-2024 compared to 2004-2014. The Modi government facilitated 12 important peace agreements and brought 10,500 armed youths into the mainstream by securing their surrender. He said that there was a time when the entire Northeast felt cut off from the rest of the country, but today it is connected through trains, railways, and air travel. Shah said that the Modi government has reduced not only the physical distance but also the emotional distance between Delhi and the Northeast. He added that today the Northeast is moving forward on the path of peace and development. Union Home Minister said that in Jammu & Kashmir, Article 370 was abrogated in 2019 under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi. After that, the government systematically earned the trust of the people through development, education, health, and poverty alleviation initiatives. He said that in the face of Pakistan-sponsored terrorism in Kashmir, the Modi government acted under a well-planned policy. Shah stated that compared to 7,300 violent incidents during 2004-2014, there were 1,800 violent incidents in 2014-2024. Deaths of security personnel decreased by 65 per cent and civilian deaths by 77 per cent. He added that every law of the country is now being implemented there. For the first time since independence, Panchayat elections were held in Jammu & Kashmir, with a voter turnout of 99.8 per cent. Shah said that we are gradually moving forward on the path to resolving the problem of terrorism in Jammu & Kashmir. (ANI) Congress MP Karti Chidambaram on Sunday expressed his grief over the loss of lives in the Karur stampede incident and blamed the" lack of second-tier leaders and administrators in TVK" for the tragedy. Addressing the media, Karti Chidambaram said, "It is deeply saddening and painful. Incidents of people losing their lives in crowd crushes continue to occur in India. Those who organised the event seem to have been negligent. It must be noted that the organisers lacked the administrative capacity to control the crowd. Whether the police were properly deployed for security will only be known after the inquiry. The lack of second-tier leaders and administrators in TVK is what led to this tragedy. I have no doubt about the public support they enjoy. My doubt is only about whether there is leadership." The death toll from the stampede at actor Vijay's political rally for the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) in Karur on Saturday evening has risen to 40. Earlier, Union Minister L Murugan on Sunday expressed condolences to the families affected by the Karur stampede. While speaking to the media here, the union minister said, "We extend our deepest condolences to the families affected by the tragic incident in Karur. Union Home Minister Amit Shah has spoken with Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin regarding the situation and assured him that the Centre is ready to provide all necessary assistance. He has also sought an explanation from the concerned officials." On Saturday, the massive crowd at Vijay's rally reportedly turned chaotic, triggering panic. Several attendees fainted and were rushed to nearby hospitals. Sources had said that overcrowding at the venue led to the tragedy. Retired High Court judge Aruna Jagadeesan, appointed by the Tamil Nadu government to lead a one-member Commission of Inquiry into the Karur stampede, landed at Trichy airport on Sunday evening. From Trichy airport, she travelled to Karur by road. In a brief interaction with the media after reaching Karur, she said, "The commission has been set up to address shortcomings. Incidents like this should not occur in the future, and the necessary remedial measures will be taken." Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin on Sunday expressed deep sorrow over the Karur tragedy. In an emotional message, Stalin said the grief and cries of the victims' families have deeply affected him and remain in his heart. In a post on X, MK Stalin wrote, "The tears shed by the families of those who lost their lives throughout the night, and the pain caused by their grief-filled cries, have not left my heart... Karur Tragedy" The Chief Minister, MK Stalin, announced a compensation of Rs 10 lakh each to the families of the victims who were killed in the Karur stampede. CM Stalin also announced aid of Rs 1 lakh each to those undergoing medical treatment in hospitals. (ANI) The Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) is celebrating "MSME Seva Parv-2025: Virasat se Vikas" from September 28th to 30th. Jitan Ram Manjhi, Union Minister of MSME, Government of India, presided over the event, and Shobha Karandlaje, Union Minister of State for MSME, Government of India, inaugurated the occasion on Sunday at Rudraksh International Cooperation & Convention Centre, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises said in a press release. The event was held to bring together communities, institutions, and individuals in a collective movement of seva, cultural pride, and to enhance awareness of heritage. Manoj Kumar, Chairman of Khadi & Village Industries Commission (KVIC), senior officials of the Ministry of MSME, Office of Development Commissioner and Khadi Village Industries Commission (KVIC), Government of Uttar Pradesh, also attended the event. Minister Manjhi also inaugurated a 3-day exhibition featuring 130 stalls that showcased and sold products made by local artisans and craftspeople. Addressing the gathering, the Union Minister of MSME, Jitan Ram Manjhi, extended his heartfelt congratulations to all the participants for making this occasion truly remarkable. Manjhi said, "The MSME sector holds great significance in India, as it is one of the largest contributors to job creation. Strengthening the MSME sector is essential, as it serves as a vital medium for generating employment and empowering our people. With this, our future looks bright." Manjhi also highlighted key initiatives such as Udyam Registration, PMEGP, CGTMSE and NSSH, and emphasised how the Ministry is supporting beneficiaries by providing training, distributing toolkits, and facilitating loans through banks. Speaking at the event, Union Minister of State for MSME, Shobha Karandlaje stated that, "We have a goal to reach the top. As our Prime Minister envisioned, we must stay committed to achieving it. The Prime Minister's vision is to realise Mahatma Gandhi's dream of promoting Swadeshi. The MSME sector plays a crucial role as a major driver of job creation. The importance of Udyam registration, the contribution of MSMEs to GDP and exports, and their role in empowering entrepreneurs through technology, toolkits, loans, and skill training are highly significant in today's world." She also highlighted the initiatives of the Ministry of MSME, including PM Vishwakarma, PMEGP and Udyam Registration, and emphasised how entrepreneurs are contributing to building a Viksit Bharat. More than 1500 beneficiaries of MSME schemes, including PM Vishwakarma, Khadi and Gramodyog Yojana, Prime Minister's Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP), National SC/ST Hub Scheme, etc., attended the event. During the event, Vipul Goel, Joint Secretary, Ministry of MSME, Government of India, delivered the welcome address, followed by a special address by S C L Das, Secretary, Ministry of MSME, Government of India. S Rajalingam, Divisional Commissioner, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, also welcomed the dignitaries and participants. The Seva Parv 2025 also featured the exchange of Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) & National Small Industries Corporation (NSIC) on marketing, along with the distribution of Loan certificates to PMV beneficiaries, distribution of Margin Money subsidy to PMEGP beneficiaries and distribution of toolkits to GVY beneficiaries. (ANI) Speaking at the event, Parvesh Verma urged residents of Delhi to celebrate responsibly and remain alert during the festive season. "I want to tell all the residents of Delhi that it is festival time. Please, whenever you attend Ramleela, keep a watchful eye on the surroundings from a security perspective and maintain harmony among yourselves," he said to the reporters. Meanwhile, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Friday attended the fifth day of the Ramleela organised by Sanatan Sanskarm in Sector 23 of the Bawana constituency, Rohini, as the chief guest. During her visit, the Chief Minister interacted with differently-abled children present at the event and appreciated their active participation in the cultural celebrations. Earlier this week, CM Rekha Gupta had announced that loudspeakers used during Ramleela, Durga Puja, and other cultural-religious events in Delhi would be permitted until midnight, extending the time limit beyond the earlier restriction of 10 PM. The chief minister said the time extension aims to allow Hindu festivals to continue without time restrictions, similar to celebrations in other states. The nine-day Navratri festival, dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga's nine incarnations, is being celebrated across the country with devotion. The festivities include fasting, prayers, and traditional dances such as Garba and Dandiya, contributing to a joyful and vibrant atmosphere. (ANI) Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, addressing the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly, warned that the "illegal use of force" by Israel "threatens to blow up the entire Middle East". "Today, the illegal use of force by Israel against Palestinians, aggressive actions against Iran, Qatar, Yemen, Lebanon, Syria, and Iraq threaten to blow up the entire Middle East," Lavrov said in his speech at the UN headquarters in New York. Lavrov said Russia condemned the attack by Hamas militants on Israelis." However, he insisted that this cannot "justify" Israel's ongoing military campaign in Gaza. "There is no justification for the brutal killings of the civilian population of Palestine, just as there is none for terrorist acts," he added. "There is no justification for the collective punishment of Palestinians in the Gaza Strip, where Palestinian children die under bombings and hunger, hospitals and schools are destroyed, and hundreds of thousands of people are left homeless." Lavrov went on to strongly criticise Israel's intentions to annex parts of the West Bank. "There is no justification for plans to annex the West Bank of the Jordan River," he said. "In fact, we are dealing with an attempt at a kind of state coup aimed at burying the UN resolutions on the creation of a Palestinian state." Referring to recent moves by some Western governments to recognise Palestine formally, Lavrov raised questions about the delay. "Recently, a number of Western governments announced recognition of the State of Palestine. Moreover, they announced their intention to do so several months ago," he said. "The question arises: why wait so long? Apparently, they hoped that soon there would be nothing left to recognise." He further calls for urgent international efforts to prevent further escalation in the region. "The situation requires urgent actions to prevent such a scenario, in favour of which the participants of the High-Level International Conference on Palestine have firmly spoken," Lavrov told the UN Assembly. (ANI) Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar of Trinidad and Tobago was given a vibrant Indian welcome in New York City on Saturday on the sidelines of UNGA 80, complete with traditional dhol drums and Bhojpuri folk performances, as she attended a humanitarian event that will bring life-changing medical assistance to her nation. The event, jointly organised by Jaipur Foot USA (BMVSS parent organisation), BRUHUD NY Seniors, and Rajasthan Association of North America (RANA), celebrated the announcement of a major artificial limb fitting camp scheduled to begin in Trinidad on October 2. The 50-day camp will provide free prosthetic limbs to approximately 800 amputees, marking the 120th such international camp organised by the Bhagwan Mahaveer Viklang Sahayata Samiti (BMVSS). "We congratulate Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He has contributed significantly not only to the people of India but also to those around the world," Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar declared at the gathering, expressing her deep appreciation for PM Modi's transformative global leadership. Speaking at the New York event, Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar expressed her gratitude for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent historic visit to Trinidad in July 2025. "His visit was a powerful and tangible testament to the enduring friendship between our countries," she said, noting that Modi was only the fourth Indian prime minister to visit the Caribbean nation. The Trinidad PM particularly praised Modi's emphasis on South-South cooperation, stating: "We welcome it as the North has always been dominant and PM Modi has really pressed on South-South cooperation. When he visited Trinidad and Tobago, he visited several countries in the south, Brazil, Ghana." The Indian diaspora from Bihar delighted attendees with traditional Bhojpuri songs and dances, creating an atmosphere of cultural celebration around the humanitarian initiative. Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar appeared to thoroughly enjoy the performances, reflecting the deep cultural ties between the two nations. Prem Bhandari, Chairman of Jaipur Foot USA, played a pivotal role in organising the camp. During the New York event, Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar unveiled the Viksit Bharat Run T-shirt, symbolising India's vision of a developed nation extending its reach globally. The initiative emerged from discussions with former Indian Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla, who suggested combining the medical camp with celebrations for Prime Minister Modi's birthday. The ceremony also marked the upcoming participation of Padma Bhushan D.R. Mehta, founder of Jaipur Foot, in the Trinidad camp's inauguration. Beyond the humanitarian gesture, Prime Minister Persad-Bissessar highlighted India's support for Trinidad and Tobago's bid for a UN Security Council seat. "India supported our bid to get a seat on the UN Security Council. Several countries supported our plan and we look forward to working with India again in that regard," she noted. The medical camp represents a significant outcome of PM Modi's Caribbean visit, which Persad-Bissessar described as having "significant economic outcomes" and "social impact that would immediately rebound to the less fortunate in our society." She emphasised how Modi's approach to international relations prioritises tangible benefits for ordinary citizens. "I want to thank PM Modi very much. His recent visit marked a historic milestone," she added, highlighting how the Indian leader's personal engagement has elevated the relationship between the two nations to new heights. Dr Pradeep Singh Rajpurohit, Indian High Commissioner to Trinidad and Tobago, has been instrumental in facilitating the camp, which continues Jaipur Foot's global mission of providing affordable prosthetic care across 50 countries. The initiative underscores India's growing soft power diplomacy, using humanitarian assistance and cultural connections to strengthen ties with nations across the Global South, while addressing critical healthcare needs in underserved communities. (ANI) The Third International Buddhist Forum in Elista, Republic of Kalmykia, concluded on a resonant note, weaving together multifaceted perspectives that illuminated the enduring relevance of Buddha Dhamma in today's world. The 2023 edition of the Forum launched initiatives on Buddhist education and heritage, while in 2024 the Forum expanded international participation, added themes like ecology and tourism, and marked the 260th anniversary of the Pandito Khambo Lama Institute. This year's conference, which opened with a powerful message by President Putin and Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov, involved a diverse array of thematic discussions that highlighted Buddhist Culture, Literature, Art and Architecture, Transcultural perspectives of Buddhism in Asia, Traditional Medicine practice and its prospects in Buddhist countries, Philosophical aspects of Buddhism, influence of Buddhism on Tourism and Preservation of Monasticism. Approximately 53% of Kalmykia's population identifies as Buddhists, making it the only Buddhist-majority region in Europe. Kalmykia, a region along the Silk Route, exemplifies the enduring Buddhist influence in Russian culture. Buddhism was introduced in Kalmykia through its roots in India. India finds mention in Russia's oldest chronicle, 'The Tale of Bygone Years' (also known as the Primary Chronicle/ Povest' Vremennykh Let), where it appears as 'Indiya'. This historic reference underscores the long-standing awareness and cultural connections between the regions. India and Kalmykia share a deep-rooted connection through their shared Buddhist heritage, with Kalmykia's Vajrayana Buddhism tracing its origins back to ancient Indian centers like Nalanda. Indian cultural presence is also evident through the establishment of an 'Indian Corner' at Kalmyk State University and the participation of Indian scholars and students, symbolising a vibrant and ongoing partnership grounded in Buddhist traditions. India's central role in shaping the spiritual foundations of Buddhist heritage was emphasised, with scholars pointing to its influence across Asia. Underscoring the role of Buddhist architecture in India, Ekaterina Akimushkina, Department of Indian Philology at the Lomonosov Moscow State University, referred to the restoration of a dilapidated Buddhist temple in Brahmanabad (historically in the Indian subcontinent), emphasising the respect and preservation of Buddhist sites amid political changes. She also referenced an Indian Historical Source 'Chachnama' which is connected with India and contains material on the penetration of Islam into India. It shows the coexistence of Buddhists, Hindus, and Muslims in the 7th-8th centuries. The text also mentions elements of Buddhist teachings, including a version of the Four Noble Truths. Highlighting how India served as the root of dissemination, Ranjana Mukhopadhyaya, University of Delhi, used Japanese Buddhism as an example of how Buddhist philosophy enriched itself through the artistic and cultural contributions of the societies it reached. She remarked that many Indian Buddhist deities, such as the goddesses once widely worshipped in India, are now more venerated in Japan, such as the Japanese God of wealth, longevity, and happiness. Artistic exchanges between India and Japan have been deeply mutual - from Japanese frescoes at Sarnath, inspired by Indian styles, and the Ajanta frescoes that influenced artists across cultures, to the works of Abanindranath Tagore and Japanese painters seeking alternatives to Western art. Addressing the rising global appeal of Buddhist heritage tourism, with lessons drawn from India's long-established pilgrimage routes, Chandan Kumar, International Buddhist Confederation, mentioned that the Government of India's initiatives, such as the Swadesh Darshan Scheme and PRASHAD, are improving connectivity and facilities. He pointed out that millions of visitors annually engage with India's Buddhist sites, reflecting the immense economic and cultural value these destinations hold. The audience was mesmerized by a unique presentation by the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC) on 'Buddha Dhamma and AI Technology' where Portia Conrad, Head of the International Relations Division of IBC demonstrated the operability of the in-house AI bot 'NORBU' named Kalyan Mitra (Spiritual Friend) which is the Dhamma Solution to queries of the new millennium for generations to come. Significantly, the algorithms pertaining to the chatbot were prepared by a technically skilled Russian monk, Reverend Khemanando, whereas the brain behind the concept is Brother Lim Kooi Fong from Malaysia. The ability of the chatbot to operate in the Russian language was overwhelming for the Russian audience. Brother Fong got the idea of developing the chatbot while attending the Global Buddhist Summit held by IBC in 2023, where scholars and monks delved into finding ways and means of keeping the modern generation abreast with the teachings of the Buddha. Along the lines of this theme, Ven. Rupan Barua Karunananda Thero, Abbot, Atisha Dipankar Memorial Complex, Bangladesh, pointed out that social media can be used skillfully or unskillfully, thereby generating corresponding karmic consequences. He urged the mindful usage to cultivate awareness and positive karma. The Republic of Buryatia has about 30-35% Buddhists, who play a significant cultural and spiritual role. Underscoring Traditional Medicine Practices and Prospects in Buddhist Countries, Ms Evgenia Ludupova, Deputy Chairperson of the Government, Minister of Health of the Republic of Buryatia, mentioned that in the Republic of Buryatia, Tibetan influences have shaped traditional medicinal practices since the 19th century. Today, Buryatia preserves a vast written heritage with over 100,000 manuscripts and continues the study of medicinal plants, the development of herbal preparations, and clinical trials. Buddhism is practised in Tuva by nearly 65% of the population. The Tuvans are the third largest ethnic group in Russia. Expressing gratitude to the organisers of the 3rd International Buddhist Forum, Ms Olga Khomushku, Tuvan State University, emphasised the importance of creating a united scientific and educational Buddhist space. With support from the Forum for the Promotion of Buddhist Education and Research, new academic programs in Buddhist philosophy and culture have been launched, involving both clergy and lay students. The collective outcome of this Conference charts a promising path forward for expanding Buddhist scholarship, practice, and global dialogue rooted in compassion, wisdom, and cooperation. The discussions reaffirmed Buddhism's enduring relevance as a dynamic force bridging ancient wisdom and contemporary challenges. The spirit of Kalmykia -India relations was evident during today's event as one saw a number of academicians and scholars from various Indian universities attend the days' activities, with the Indian participants actively interacting with their Kalmyk and Russian counterparts, besides other foreign participants. As the Indian flag stood proudly displayed outside the conference venue, monks and experts from the IBC were also seen contributing their bit at today's session. The president of IBC, Dr. Dhammapiya, as well as a number of prominent monks representing IBC from different countries, were seen engaging local monks and officials. These include - Most Venerable Ashin Nyanissara from Myanmar, Most Venerable Ugen Namgyal from Bhutan, Most Venerable Gyetrul Jigme Rinpoche from India, Geshe Yonten from Russia, Ven. Pannasekara from Tanzania and Ven Buddhapala from South Korea, among others. India and Kalmykia have had traditionally old relations over the years, and the Embassy of India, Moscow, has been engaging the Kalmyk administration in a range of activities in the past. In September 2025, the Indian Ambassador to Russia, Vinay Kumar, visited Kalmykia to interact with Kalmyk officials and lay the groundwork for the visit of the Holy Relics of the Buddha to Kalmykia soon. Earlier, in July 2019, the then Indian Ambassador to Russia, Bal Venkatesh Varma, visited Kalmykia and held meetings with the Kalmykia business community and Heads of Executive authorities of Kalmykia. Memoranda of intentions were signed then in the field of socio-cultural, trade and economic cooperation. Given the immense popularity of Indian arts and handicrafts, an Indian Bazaar was held in May 2014, in the Kalmyk capital, Elista, by the Indian Embassy, Moscow. Moscow-based Indian Embassy officials have also been engaging the Buddhists in Buryatia, and in August 2023, the then Indian Ambassador to Russia, Pavan Kapoor, attended the First International Buddhist Forum at Ulan-Ude, the capital of Buryatia. Delivering an inspiring address underscoring India's unwavering dedication to upholding and spreading the principles of Buddhism across the world, he emphasised the ancient spiritual ties between India and Russia that stretch back over millennia. The longstanding, friendly, and spiritual bonds shared between India and Russia through Buddhism will be further strengthened with the exposition of the Holy Buddha Relics scheduled to take place in Kalmykia in the near future. This bond is reinforced by Russian Lamas studying in India, the revival of Buddhist traditions in Russia and cultural diplomacy like the International Buddhist Forum and the visit of the Holy relics from India. Disclaimer: Aishwarya Nair is a Research Assistant in the IR Division at the International Buddhist Confederation. The views expressed in this article are her own. (ANI) Palestinian Ambassador to India, Abdullah Abu Shawesh lauded India by saying that it is a key player when it comes to political issues. Shawesh, in a conversation with ANI, said that India has the potential to change the global arena with its power. "When we talk about India, we talk about the largest democratic country worldwide. When we talk about India, we talk about 1.4 billion human beings. When we talk about India as someone who has served in the United Nations for eight years, India, when India decides in the United Nations, India can change the international arena in general. When it came to the political issues, India is a key player. We look to India to utilise its very heavy, very respected, well-known political power," he said. He said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi continues to support Palestine by contributing USD 5 million to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). "Those two resolutions, those two outcomes were adopted under the Chairmanship of His Excellency Narendra Modi and his government. Of course, India is paying each year USD 5 million to honour UNRWA, which is the United Nations' entity that deals with the Palestinian refugee question. In the macro level, India used to be still, and we will trust that India is continuing to be in support of the Palestinian people," he said. Shawesh said that the relations between Palestine President Mahmoud Abbas and Prime Minister Modi are great and hoped that they would continue to be so. "President Abbas sent to His Excellency the Prime Minister Narenda Modi a letter, an official letter, personal letter asking him to help in more than one issue. And we are pretty sure that the relation even between President Abbas and the Prime Minister Narenda Modi is a very good relation," he said. Shawesh said that Indian-Palestinian relations are rooted in history as both declared Independence at a similar time. "It's the Indian-Palestinian historical relation because our relation with India is deeply rooted in history I mean, it was started, some references talking about it was this relation was started mid 1930s when the Palestinian people was launched their first revolution in 1936 to 1939 and India at that time had its own revolution of course. So that there is a strong relation at that time. seems that there is a lot of references talking that India was supporting the Palestinian revolution," he said. Shawesh recounted that India was the first non-Arab and non-Muslim country to recognise Palestine. "Then India, in a key move under the Chairmanship of Mahatma Gandhi, voted against the partition plan of Palestine in 1947, which is something we highly appreciate. India recognised PLO (Palestinian Liberation Organization), in late 1974 as the first non-Arab and non-Muslim country, as a sole and legitimate representative of the Palestinian people," he said. (ANI) Pakistan's top tax authorities have expressed alarm over the widening gap between declared incomes and the extravagant lifestyles of many citizens, highlighting how the existing system fails to reflect the nation's true wealth. Around half of the 5.9 million income tax returns filed for the year 2024 showed zero income, despite many of these taxpayers living in luxury, as reported by Dawn. According to Dawn, the trend appears to be continuing in 2025, with more than 40 per cent of returns submitted by September 27 declaring nil income. Officials point out that people are living in palatial homes, driving expensive cars, shopping for branded goods, and travelling abroad frequently, yet their tax declarations do not match these lifestyles. An internal review cited that the current declarations are far from an accurate reflection of real earnings. Pakistan's Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) acknowledges that the universal self-assessment scheme, under which taxpayer declarations are accepted without routine checks, has been widely exploited. Officials argue that the effectiveness of such a system depends on strong deterrent audits, third-party data, and a digitised economic framework, all of which remain underdeveloped. To address these loopholes, the FBR is seeking to revamp its whistleblower programme. At present, informants can claim up to Rs 5 million, but the board is proposing to increase this ceiling to Rs 150 million, distributed on a graded scale. Officials suggest relying on extended families, neighbours, colleagues, and even domestic staff who often have knowledge of undeclared wealth. Advanced economies have successfully adopted similar models, combining strong secrecy protections with substantial incentives, as highlighted by Dawn. FBR officials also propose simplifying reward structures, ensuring faster payouts, and restricting whistle-blower-based inquiries to the current tax year. This, they argue, would encourage voluntary compliance without triggering punitive backdated audits. "The foundation of an effective whistle-blower system rests on two elements: absolute secrecy and credible rewards," one senior official remarked, highlighting the urgency of reforming Pakistan's tax enforcement mechanisms, as reported by Dawn. (ANI) Berlin [Germany], September 28 (ANI/WAM): Germany's interior minister Alexander Dobrindt said on Saturday that the threat from drones was "high" and that the country would take measures to defend itself. "There is a threat that can be classified as high when it comes to drones. It is an abstract threat, but very concrete in individual cases," Dobrindt told journalists in Berlin. As part of its measures, Germany plans to revise its aviation security law to authorise the armed forces to intervene, including the potential downing of drones, he said. (ANI/WAM) US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick on Sunday in an interview with News Nation said that India needs to 'react correctly' to the US. Lutnick said that India must open its markets and take actions that would not 'harm' the US. "We have a bunch of countries to fix like Switzerland, Brazil, right? It's got an issue. India, these are countries that need to really react correctly to America. Open their markets, stop taking actions that harm America, and that's why we're off sides with them," he said. He then said that the issues would be sorted, but India must 'play ball' with the US. "Those, I think, will be sorted out, but they take time. And these countries have to understand that if you want to sell to the US consumer, right? You've got to play ball with the president of the United States. So those are still coming. A bunch of countries left but the big ones maybe the big ones you know India we'll sort it out over time," he said in the News Nation interview. Earlier on September 26, a high-level Indian delegation, led by Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal during a recent visit to the United States (US), engaged in a series of productive discussions aimed at strengthening bilateral trade deal and investment ties between the two countries, the Commerce and Industry Ministry said in a statement. The Ministry added that the Minister held key meetings with Ambassador Jamieson Greer, United States Trade Representative, and Sergio Gor, the US Ambassador-designate to India. A delegation led by the Commerce and Industries Minister visited the United States of America from 22nd to 24th September 2025. During these discussions, both sides exchanged views on various facets of the Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) deal. It was mutually agreed to continue engagements to expedite the early conclusion of a trade agreement that benefits both countries, the Ministry added. (ANI) Palestinian Ambassador to India, Abdullah Abu Shawesh said on Sunday that the speech by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the United Nations General Assembly was "dangerous", referring to his phrase "finish the job." Shawesh, while speaking to ANI, said that Netanyahu simply believes in expelling Palestinians from their land. "It's very important to say that the Israeli Prime Minister is a wanted criminal. Fugitive from justice. It should be used. In the international community, we should use the exact adjective for those people. Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu, in his speech, said a very dangerous word, 'finish the job'. Only the Israelis and anyone who is an expert on Israeli society know the meaning of 'finish the job'," he said. Shawesh said that Netanyahu is taking the same measures in Gaza now, as he is clearing the settlements of Palestinians. "This is the exact goal that he declared when he said that we will go to expel the Palestinian people from Gaza. He is taking the same measure in the West Bank right now, which is to expel the Palestinian people. None of the Israelis believe him. We are talking about two sides of Palestine now, in Gaza and the West Bank. The West Bank is no less devastating. 65,000 Palestinians have been killed in Gaza, 75 per cent or more of them are women and children. We are talking about 12,000 to 15,000 Palestinian homes that have completely disappeared. We do not know whether they are under the rubble," he said. Shawesh further said that the Israelis have denounced UN report which stated that Gaza is reeling under famine. "The United Nations has declared a famine in Gaza. Regardless of the Americans and the Israelis denying it, a famine has been declared in Gaza," he said. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delivered a fiery address at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on Friday, repeatedly invoking the October 7 attacks in Israel and drawing parallels with the September 11 terror strikes in the United States. Netanyahu said, "Giving the Palestinians a state one mile from Jerusalem after October 7 is like giving al-Qaeda a state one mile from New York City after September 11." Members of the US delegation, Israel's closest ally and largest military supporter, were seen applauding as he spoke. "This is sheer madness. It's insane, and we won't do it," Netanyahu added, while strongly criticising recent moves by Western nations to recognise a Palestinian state formally. "You didn't do something right. You did something wrong, horribly wrong," he said, insisting such steps would only embolden further attacks on Jews and "innocent people everywhere." (ANI) The Consulate General of India in New York on Sunday celebrated World Ayurveda Day with a special focus on nutrition. Consul General Binaya Pradhan highlighted Ayurveda's growing popularity in the USA and people's increasing attraction to its holistic approach. In a post on X, the Consulate said, "Indian Consulate in New York celebrated World Ayurveda Day with a special focus on Nutrition & Ayurveda: Distinguished panel discussed how Ayurveda's time-tested principles guide balanced nutrition, holistic health & mental well-being. Consul General Binaya Pradhan highlighted Ayurveda's growing popularity in the USA and people's increasing attraction to its holistic approach. Official launch of Nutrition 360, a flagship initiative promoting mindful & evidence-based nutrition." https://x.com/IndiainNewYork/status/1972092681623904570 Meanwhile, as per the California College of Ayurveda, interest in Ayurveda slowly grew in the United States during the 1970's and early 1980s, though the seeds of Ayurveda had been planted and nurtured decades earlier. Knowledge of the existence of Ayurveda has been known in the West for as long as scholars have travelled to India.European scholars have travelled to India for thousands of years. As the United States formed and became a scholarly centre, there have always been scholars who were familiar with India's culture and Ayurveda. Early yoga teachers such as Swami Vivekananda and Paramahansa Yogananda came to the United States in the early 1900s and stoked interest in Vedic knowledge. However, a large-scale general awareness of Ayurveda did not occur until the 1970s and 1980s. In the late 1960s and 1970s, several important teachers of yoga came to the West. Although they came with a focus on yoga, they planted the seeds of interest in Ayurveda. These promoters of Ayurveda from India saw Ayurveda as another important facet of Vedic teachings and one that beautifully complemented the traditional practices of yoga. Most notable among these teachers was the Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. On International Yoga Day, i.e., June 21, the Consulate General of India (CGI) in New York, in association with the Town of Greenburgh and the Indian Cultural Association of North America (ICANA), celebrated International Day of Yoga 2025 in Westchester with vibrant participation. (ANI) Pakistan recorded 41 new patients of dengue in three government-run hospitals on Saturday, with a total of 127 patients currently under treatment, Dawn reported on Sunday. According to Dawn, during the current season, 12,941 patients visited the outpatient departments of the three hospitals, 2,218 were admitted to dengue wards, and 1,128 were confirmed dengue cases. A senior doctor at Holy Family Hospital told Dawn that hospitals have arranged additional beds in case of emergencies. He said that, as per directives of the Pakistan Punjab government, treatment is being provided to patients from Islamabad and other districts as well. He told Dawn that the district hospitals in Jhelum, Chakwal, and Attock refer serious cases to Holy Family Hospital. Citing the data compiled by Rawalpindi Medical University (RMU), Dawn noted that 448 patients visited the outpatient departments of Holy Family Hospital, Benazir Bhutto Hospital, and Rawalpindi Teaching Hospital. Of them, 41 tested positive for dengue. Dengue fever, transmitted by the Aedes mosquito, has been a recurring threat in Pakistan, particularly during the monsoon season. Health experts continue to urge authorities to ramp up preventive measures, including mosquito control programmes, to combat the spread of the disease. Dengue, as described by the World Health Organisation (WHO), is an infectious disease that affects people through mosquito bites. Currently, more than half of the population of the world is threatened with the disease, with the forecasted epidemic being in the number of 100-400 million cases per year. "Prevention and control of dengue depend on vector control. There is no specific treatment for dengue/severe dengue, and early detection and access to proper medical care greatly lower fatality rates of severe dengue," the WHO said. (ANI) Poland briefly closed part of its airspace southeast of the capital, Warsaw, on Sunday, citing "unplanned military activity," as Russia launched a new wave of strikes on Ukraine, Al Jazeera reported. The Polish armed forces said aircraft were scrambled to ensure the security of its skies. It described the actions as preventive and aimed at securing airspace and protecting citizens. According to Al Jazeera, the closure covered the cities of Lublin and Rzeszow and was expected to last until early morning. Ukraine's air force said nationwide air raid alerts were in effect as of 03:00 GMT on Sunday in response to Russian strikes. Earlier this month, Polish and NATO forces intercepted Russian drones that entered Polish airspace, marking their first direct military engagement with Moscow since the 2022 invasion, Al Jazeera reported. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov warned NATO and the European Union that "any aggression against my country will be met with a decisive response." Speaking at the United Nations General Assembly in New York on Saturday, Lavrov said Moscow had no intention of attacking the West but was prepared to respond if provoked. Meanwhile, NATO announced on Saturday that it is upgrading its mission in the Baltic Sea with an air defence frigate and other assets, including "intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance platforms," in response to drone incursions in Denmark. According to Al Jazeera, unidentified drones were seen near Danish military installations overnight on Saturday, prompting authorities to label the incidents as hybrid attacks. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen said it was "the most serious attack on Danish critical infrastructure to date." Copenhagen airport, the busiest in the Nordic region, was forced to close temporarily, while five smaller Danish airports, both civilian and military, were also shut for short periods in the following days. In neighbouring Norway, police confirmed they were investigating possible drone sightings near Oerland air force base, the central hub for the country's F-35 jets. In Germany, Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt said a drone "swarm" was spotted over Schleswig-Holstein, adding that he wants to revise air safety laws to allow the armed forces to shoot down drones, Al Jazeera reported. On Friday, defence ministers from about 10 EU countries said they want to prioritise building a "drone wall" to secure their borders. In response, Russia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the measures would lead to "an increase in military and political tensions on our continent," according to state news agency RIA Novosti. The ministry also claimed the plans amounted to "personal ambitions and political games of the EU's ruling elites." (ANI) Authorities in China have completed the rollout of a controversial language reform in Inner Mongolia, requiring Mandarin to be the central language of instruction in schools. The shift, first introduced in 2020 and now fully enforced, has left many ethnic Mongolians fearing the erosion of their mother tongue, culture, and identity, as reported by The Epoch Times. According to The Epoch Times, under the policy, nearly all subjects, including mathematics, history, and politics, must now be taught in Mandarin, leaving Mongolian reduced to a single language course. Teachers who once instructed in Mongolian have either been reassigned or pushed into intensive retraining programs to adapt to the new mandate. Saren, a primary school teacher, said the abrupt change has been difficult. "I taught math in Mongolia for over a decade. Since last fall, I've had to switch completely to Mandarin. The training was rushed, and many of us are struggling. It's even harder for the students." Other educators have noticed the impact on children's academic performance. At a school in Ordos, teacher Naren-Gowa observed that pupils who previously excelled suddenly saw their grades fall after the transition. Parents share similar concerns. "If textbooks in Mandarin are used from first grade, our mother tongue will slowly vanish. And if our language disappears, so will our ethnic identity," said Adma, a parent from Hulun Buir, as cited by The Epoch Times. The effects of the policy extend beyond schools. Ethnic Mongolian civil servants are now expected to use Mandarin in all public duties; this environment discourages them from speaking Mongolian, even among friends and colleagues, as they fear being perceived as "backward or incompetent." Some teachers also report feeling isolated at work. With staff offices now mixed to encourage integration, one said a colleague warned against using Mongolian at all. "I felt like a stranger in my own workplace," the teacher recalled. For many in Inner Mongolia, the concern is not only the diminishing use of their language but the gradual disappearance of their cultural heritage, a fear that continues to deepen under the Mandarin-only directive, as reported by The Epoch Times. (ANI) US President Donald Trump asked the Supreme Court to revive his controversial policy to deny birthright citizenship to children born in the US to undocumented immigrants and to visitors on short-term visas, Politico reported. In petitions submitted to the high court on Friday, Solicitor General D. John Sauer asked the justices to hear arguments on the issue early next year, which would likely result in a ruling by June. If the high court acquiesces in that schedule, it would effectively highlight Trump's anti-birthright citizenship drive months before the Congressional midterm elections that will be pivotal for Trump to keep carrying out his agenda, as reported by Politico. A ruling in the US President's favour would be a major victory for his immigration agenda, while a defeat would allow him to blame the justices for blocking one of his key priorities. Trump expressed urgency on the issue by signing an anti-birthright executive order on his first day back in office in January, but it has never been implemented because four federal judges hearing lawsuits over the effort ruled that it clearly violates the 14th Amendment and longstanding Supreme Court precedent. "The Citizenship Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment was adopted to grant citizenship to freed slaves and their children, not to the children of illegal aliens, birth tourists, and temporary visitors," Sauer wrote. "The plain text of the Clause requires more than birth on US soil alone," Politico reported. However, all the district court judges who have considered the issue in recent months rejected that position, often in withering terms. They pointed to a broad legal consensus that nearly everyone born in the US acquires citizenship automatically at birth. The leading Supreme Court case on the issue, Wong Kim Ark v. US, held that a child born in the US to parents from China was entitled to US citizenship. The Trump administration brought several birthright citizenship cases to the Supreme Court earlier this year, but only to ask the justices to use them as a vehicle to narrow the practice of individual federal judges issuing nationwide injunctions to block federal government policies. The high court granted that request in a 6-3 ruling in June, but did not opine on whether the underlying Trump policy is constitutional, Politico reported. (ANI) US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth's last-minute order summoning hundreds of generals and admirals to a Virginia base has puzzled current and former defence officials, The Hill reported. The directive calls for top officers to attend a Tuesday meeting at Marine Corps University in Quantico, Virginia, where Hegseth is expected to deliver a short address on military standards and "warrior ethos." Invitations were sent to all officers with the rank of brigadier general or rear admiral and above, along with their senior enlisted leaders. The gathering, described as unprecedented in size and timing, has raised questions over its purpose. Retired Army Lt. Gen. Mark Hertling told MSNBC's Morning Joe, "We're way out in terms of unusual in this one." Active-duty colleagues "don't know what this is about," he added. "So it could be about a shifting national security strategy, it could be cuts to the general officer corps, Secretary Hegseth has mentioned that several times, it could be about the upcoming budget stalemate, or it could be concerns over information leaks or press leaks." The Pentagon confirmed on Thursday that Hegseth "will be addressing his senior military leaders early next week" but did not provide further details. According to The Hill, the directive was sent to more than 800 generals, admirals, and their top enlisted advisers worldwide, including those stationed in conflict zones in the Middle East, Africa, Europe, and the Indo-Pacific. The Washington Post cited one source as saying the meeting was intended to be an "eyeball-to-eyeball kind of conversation" between Hegseth and his senior commanders. Hertling noted that such a mass convergence of top brass had no precedent in US military history. "Certainly during wartime, generals commanding in a theater are brought in individually with their team or the president or the secretary of Defense visits them at their theater operation, but I've never seen anything like this before, and it just seems extremely bizarre and strange," he said. Meetings of senior officers are not uncommon, but The Hill reported that the scale and urgency of this gathering have sparked concerns. Critics also noted that secure communications systems typically allow commanders to convene without leaving their posts, even during conflict. Outside groups have also expressed alarm. The Democracy Forward Foundation filed a Freedom of Information Act request seeking documents on the purpose of the meeting and security risks associated with concentrating so many leaders in one place. Its president, Skye Perryman, said in a statement: "In recent weeks, President Trump has developed a pattern of using respected members of the military as decoration for his antics, and has improperly deployed the military in our nation's cities. He has done this without the authorization of Congress and against the wishes of governors and city leaders. Against this backdrop, Americans of all backgrounds are concerned about the President's transparency and the misuse of the nation's military here at home. The American people have a right to know what their government is doing, and our team is taking action." The American Civil Liberties Union also wrote to lawmakers, urging them to conduct oversight. Chris Anders, its director of democracy and technology, said in a Thursday letter: "At minimum, the Pentagon must disclose the agenda for the meeting and any planned changes in policy or program. But more importantly, we urge you to obtain assurances that any changes announced or instituted at the meeting will not result in further unconstitutional, illegal, or other harmful actions." President Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance have downplayed concerns, accusing the press of exaggerating the issue. "Why is that such a big deal?" Trump said from the Oval Office. "You act like this is a bad thing, isn't it nice that people are coming from all over the world to meet?" Vance added, "I think it's odd that you guys have made it into such a big story." Richard Haass, president emeritus of the Council on Foreign Relations, suggested Hegseth's motivation might be to assert control. "It's just a stunt, and it looks truly, truly excessive," Haass said on MSNBC. "There's easier ways to do this. We have fought wars in recent years, by the way, without people leaving their bases. That's why we have these secure video systems. ... You don't need to do something like this. It has to be something much more personal." The Hill reported that the unusual scope, speed, and lack of explanation for the meeting have left both the Pentagon and outside observers demanding clarity. (ANI) Despite objections from defence lawyers, an Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) in Rawalpindi on Saturday recorded testimony from three more prosecution witnesses in a case against former prime minister Imran Khan linked to the May 9, 2023, violent protests outside the army headquarters, Dawn reported. The hearing went ahead even as Khan's legal team requested a halt to the video link trial, insisting he should be allowed to appear in person. ATC Judge Amjad Ali Shah resumed proceedings as defence counsel submitted an application seeking Khan's personal appearance, urging the court to end the video link arrangement under which Khan joins from Adiala Jail. Head of the prosecution Raja Ikram Ameen Minhas argued that a similar application had already been dismissed, and the defence had not challenged that order before the Lahore High Court. He said the defence had filed the application again "to disrupt the court proceeding." The judge observed that he could not halt the trial unless an appellate forum restrained him from doing so. Testimony was then recorded from three prosecution witnesses: Tehzeebul Hassan, Asmat Kamal and Akbar. According to Dawn, statements of 44 out of 50 prosecution witnesses have now been recorded, with three more summoned for the next hearing on September 30. Legal arguments on Saturday reflected the continuing dispute over the trial's format. On September 19, Judge Shah ruled the trial would be conducted on court premises rather than Adiala Jail, but said Khan's attendance would be marked through video link. The decision followed a Punjab government notification citing security concerns. Khan, incarcerated since August 2023, faces multiple cases. He was indicted in December 2023 in the GHQ protest case and formally arrested by Rawalpindi police in January 2024. His initial arrest from the Islamabad High Court on May 9, 2023, sparked nationwide unrest, with state buildings and military installations vandalised. During the latest hearing, defence lawyers again sought a deferment to challenge the video link order. The prosecution countered that the defence had neither obtained a restraining order from the high court nor challenged the order before an appellate forum. According to Dawn, the court proceeded with the testimony as defence counsel left the courtroom, later telling reporters about connectivity issues in the video link arrangement. The prosecution has said it expects to complete its evidence against Khan and other leaders of the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) party next week, after which cross-examination of witnesses will begin. (ANI) The Viksit Bharat Run was organised in Harrow on Sunday, bringing together members of the Indian diaspora and local residents in a celebration of fitness, unity, and cultural pride. The event was held in association with Grays Community and supported by the High Commission of India. High Commissioner of India to the United Kingdom, Vikram Doraiswami, stated that the purpose of the event was to highlight the spirit of service and the contributions of Indians abroad. "The idea was to emphasise the spirit of service and the notion that a cohesive community that contributes to society and is driven by the commitment to serve India but also to commit to serve the country where they live... Thereby, to build the image of the Indian community as a community that contributes wherever it goes and as a community that serves everywhere it goes," he told ANI. The run saw enthusiastic participation from across the community. Speaking to ANI, a participant wearing Viksit Bharat run T-shirt said, "As soon as we came to know that a race was being held here under the 'Seva Pakhwada,' we came here and participated in the race... We request everyone to participate in the race with great enthusiasm." UK MP Bob Blackman, who joined the event, praised the Indian community for its active role in society. "I am delighted to be here as we've had the fun run to encourage people to actively participate in physical activity... This is all important about celebrating the Indian contribution not only to Harrow but to the entirety of the United Kingdom," he added. At the run, Blackman was also seen wearing the Vikist Bharat T-shirt. The event added to the ongoing 'Seva Pakhwada' activities, which commenced on September 17, on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's birthday. (ANI) The fortnight-long celebration, held from September 14 to 28, aimed to promote Hindi alongside the rich plurality of Indian languages. The event was graced by the Deputy High Commissioner of India, Pawan Badhe, as the Chief Guest, and it brought together many distinguished professors from Dhaka University. As part of the observance, IGCC organised competitions in essay writing, poem recitation, and Antakshari, and winners were felicitated during the closing ceremony. In his keynote address, Deputy High Commissioner Pawan Badhe highlighted that Hindi Pakhwada is not merely about celebrating Hindi but also about acknowledging the depth and diversity of India's linguistic traditions. He noted that India is home to 22 constitutionally recognised languages and hundreds of others spoken across its regions, each carrying centuries of knowledge and culture. He said that "every language enriches us, every script and poem adds to our heritage, and every folk song strengthens the bonds of friendship between India and Bangladesh." The Deputy High Commissioner also underlined the global and regional significance of India's classical languages, particularly Sanskrit, which has shaped Asia's philosophical and literary thought for millennia. He warmly welcomed the Government of India's recent recognition of Bangla as a classical language, calling it a shared moment of pride that strengthens cultural bonds between India and Bangladesh. The evening also featured a soulful musical performance by Sushmita Sen Chowdhury and her team, who captivated the audience with classics of Hindi music. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks and a call for continued collaboration among institutions, scholars, and students to deepen the people-to-people ties between India and Bangladesh. (ANI) Denmark has imposed a temporary ban on civilian drones across its airspace ahead of a European Union summit, following reported sightings of drones near multiple military sites, Al Jazeera reported. The restriction will remain in effect from Monday through Friday, coinciding with Denmark's hosting of European leaders as part of its rotating presidency of the EU. "We are currently in a difficult security situation, and we must ensure the best possible working conditions for the armed forces and the police when they are responsible for security during the EU summit," Defence Minister Troels Lund Poulsen said in a statement on Sunday. According to Al Jazeera, the Ministry of Defence confirmed that "several capacities" had been deployed after the drone sightings but declined to specify the type of deployment, the number of drones involved, or the exact locations. The latest incident followed NATO's announcement that it would bolster its Baltic Sea mission with additional surveillance assets and at least one air-defence frigate. The move came after what officials described as drone incursions over Danish territory. Copenhagen Airport had already been closed earlier this week for several hours after large drones were spotted overhead. Within days, five smaller Danish airports -- both military and civilian -- were also temporarily shut down, Al Jazeera reported. The Danish transportation ministry explained the rationale behind the broad ban. "All civilian drone flying in Danish airspace will be prohibited ... to remove the risk that enemy drones can be confused with legal drones and vice versa," the statement said. Transport Minister Thomas Danielsen added, "We cannot accept that foreign drones create uncertainty and disturbances in society, as we have experienced recently. At the same time, Denmark will host EU leaders in the coming week, where we will have extra focus on security." He also warned that violating the prohibition could result in a fine or imprisonment of up to two years. Denmark is set to host EU leaders on Wednesday, followed by a summit on Thursday of the 47-member European Political Community, established in response to Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine, to foster wider European cooperation. Danish leaders have described the recent drone activity as part of a "hybrid attack." While stopping short of naming a culprit, Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen has pointed to Moscow as the primary "country that poses a threat to European security." The Kremlin has denied responsibility. Al Jazeera noted that NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte recently said Russian involvement could not be ruled out, though Russia has rejected the charge. A German air defence frigate arrived in Copenhagen on Sunday to reinforce airspace monitoring during the upcoming summits. The incidents come amid heightened regional tensions, with Estonia accusing Russia last week of violating its airspace with three MiG-31 fighter jets, before NATO scrambled Italian aircraft to escort them out. Russia has denied the claim. At the United Nations on Saturday, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov criticised Western allegations as "scaremongering" about the threat of a wider war. "Russia is being accused of almost planning to attack NATO and EU countries. President [Vladimir] Putin has repeatedly debunked these provocations," Lavrov said. (ANI) Local officials in Herat have reported a surge in the deportation and forced return of Afghan migrants from Iran in recent days, Tolo News reported. According to official figures, up to 5,000 Afghans are crossing back into the country daily through the Islam Qala border point. Abdul Ghani Kamel, Acting Head of the Committee for Migrant Assistance at Islam Qala port, said, "These migrants are forced to leave Iran. When they went to Iran, they had no intention of returning, but there they faced coercion. The breadwinner of the family is arrested and deported, forcing the rest of the family to return as well. Even women are detained and deported alone by the Iranian government, which compels other family members to follow them." Several deported Afghans described the challenges they faced in Iran before being expelled. Abdullah, one of the returnees, said: "Two months ago, our documents were revoked, and my children were expelled from school. Those without documents were denied housing. I worked secretly to provide food, but we were eventually forced to return." Mohammad Rafi, another deportee, recounted his experience: "I had lived in Iran for 44 years. I was arrested and deported, but my family remains in Iran. Iranian security forces made false accusations against me, expelled me, and I lost my work and livelihood there." Azizullah, who also returned through Islam Qala, added: "I lived in Iran for 17 years and got married there, but my documents were annulled. My wife had a passport, and I had a census card, but we were still deported." Tolo News reported that local officials in Herat estimate more than 1.1 million Afghans have re-entered the country in just over the past three months since Iran began large-scale deportations. Iranian authorities have already warned that a second wave of Afghan migrant deportations will begin soon, Tolo News added. (ANI) In a Telegram post on Friday, Zakharova pointed to reports in Hungarian media alleging that Kiev intends to stage acts of sabotage in neighbouring NATO countries and then blame Moscow. "Europe has never been so close to the outbreak of World War 3 in modern history," Zakharova wrote. According to her, the Ukraine's alleged plan involves repairing several downed or intercepted Russian UAVs, fitting them with lethal warheads, and sending them disguised as "Russian drones" to major NATO transport hubs in Poland and Romania. Zakharova said these UAVs would be controlled by Ukrainian specialists. At the same time, a disinformation campaign would run across Europe to pin the blame on Moscow and provoke an armed conflict between Russia and NATO, RT reported. She further claimed that Russian-made 'Geran' drones were reportedly delivered on September 16 to the Yavorov training ground in western Ukraine, which hosts the International Center for Peacekeeping and Security of the Hetman Petro Sagaidachny National Academy. The UAVs had earlier been repaired at the LORTA plant in Lviv, she added. Zakharova cited Hungarian journalists as saying that the reason for these alleged actions by Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky is straightforward: "the Ukrainian armed forces are suffering a crushing defeat." "The collapse of the army," she quoted them as saying, "is no longer limited to the tactical level but has taken on a strategic dimension," RT reported. "If all this is confirmed, it means that Europe has never been so close to the start of World War 3," Zakharova concluded. (ANI) As the Punjab government on Saturday launched a survey to assess losses from recent floods, the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) urged Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to provide immediate relief to victims through the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP), Dawn reported. The Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and PPP, coalition partners at the Centre and in Punjab, remain divided over the mechanism of aid distribution. The Punjab government has insisted on using its own resources, while the PPP has pushed for channeling support through BISP. At a press conference in Islamabad, PPP Secretary General Humayun Khan, Senator Palwasha Khan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa leader Muhammad Ali Shah Bacha criticised the Punjab administration. They argued that BISP already had the necessary data and was the most effective mechanism to reach flood-hit families. Humayun Khan said people were enduring severe hardships and recalled that PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari had visited flood-affected areas in Punjab. He reiterated the party's demand for relief through BISP. Palwasha Khan condemned "unfortunate remarks" by PML-N ministers against the PPP despite being coalition partners. "It is regrettable that the Punjab government has used such language for its coalition partner. The Punjab government says it will not bow down to anyone. Then why go to the IMF? The impression is being created that Punjab belongs to one party. Punjab is not the domain of any one party; similarly, no province is the exclusive domain of any party. All provinces of Pakistan belong to all Pakistanis," she said. She called for waiving the electricity bills of flood-affected families until they fully recover. She added the scale of damage was immense and not yet fully estimated. "Why does the name of BISP cause so much pain," she asked, recalling that funds had been disbursed earlier during Ramazan. Without elaborating, she noted that when the Punjab chief minister faced challenges, "the most vocal voices of support came from Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari and the PPP." Muhammad Ali Shah Bacha accused both PML-N and the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa of failing to support flood victims. He said floods in KP were triggered by cloudbursts that wiped out villages and killed hundreds. "The prime minister and the chief minister came for just one day, distributed cheques and left," Bacha said, terming the role of both governments "disappointing." "The Punjab chief minister says they do not need the PPP's advice. But when the PML-N government is in trouble, it remembers the PPP and its leadership. When the PML-N wants votes on a bill, it turns to Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari," he said. "If Maryam Nawaz is the daughter of Nawaz Sharif, then don't forget that Bilawal Bhutto is the son of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto and the grandson of Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto." According to Dawn, the Punjab government refrained from giving a timeline for either completing the survey or beginning compensation payments for over four million affected residents. At the launch of the Punjab Flood Survey Campaign, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz said 2,200 survey teams comprising 10,000 members of the Pakistan Army, revenue, agriculture and livestock departments and district administration would conduct the survey. She announced that affected families would receive PKR 1 million for a destroyed house, PKR 500,000 for a partially damaged house, PKR 500,000 for loss of livestock and PKR 20,000 per acre up to 12 acres for farmers. "We will make sure that every single flood victim is compensated and resettled. These survey teams are my eyes, ears and hands," she said, describing them as the "sons and daughters of Punjab." Indirectly responding to criticism from PTI and PPP over what they called her "flood photo/video shoot," Maryam Nawaz said: "If someone is working, the camera should show it because the public deserves to know what its CM is doing. We don't seek the camera as the real work is happening, it speaks for itself." She added that Punjab was working while other provinces were busy criticising it. "I say Punjab is progressing and that is why criticism exists. We close our ears to negativity and keep our eyes fixed on the goal," she remarked, adding that people from other provinces wished to live in Punjab. The chief minister also criticised PPP for suggesting the use of BISP data. "Distributing PKR 10,000 to each flood-affected person through BISP data will do no good," she said. PPP leaders, including Aseefa Bhutto-Zardari, had earlier urged Punjab to use the BISP database instead of a lengthy survey to deliver relief, Dawn reported. As the row continued, senior PPP leader Nadeem Afzal Chan wrote on X: "Punjab has emerged as the biggest borrower among all provinces, securing a staggering PKR 405 billion loan from the State Bank in just the first 38 days (July 1 to August 8, 2025) of the current fiscal year (2025-26)." Punjab Information Minister Azma Bokhari threatened to sue Chan under defamation laws and the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (Peca). "Chan Sahib, you were a decent man, but for the past few days it seems you are either under mental stress or deliberately running fake propaganda against Punjab," she said. Bokhari stressed that facts about the loan issue had already been shared with the media in August. "Now repeating this false narrative falls under Peca," she said, adding that under the Punjab Defamation Bill, Chan would have to prove the "fabricated news" in court. Dawn reported that Bokhari warned legal action would be taken if required. (ANI) The Changchun Intermediate People's Court said Tang had accepted cash and property worth more than 268 million yuan (USD 38 million) between 2007 and 2024 while serving in different government positions, as per Xinhua. The court ruled that Tang's crimes caused severe damage to the state and public interest and warranted the death penalty. However, the sentence was suspended for two years as he had confessed, returned illicit gains and expressed remorse. "All of Tang's personal property will be confiscated, and his illegal earnings will be recovered and handed over to the national treasury," the court said in its verdict. Tang, 62, was expelled from the Communist Party in November 2024, six months after he was placed under investigation by the party's anti-graft watchdog and removed from office. During the trial in July, prosecutors, the defendant and his lawyers examined evidence and presented their arguments. Tang pleaded guilty and said he regretted his actions in his final statement. He previously served as governor of Gansu Province from 2017 to 2020, before being appointed as Minister of Agriculture. The case is part of President Xi Jinping's ongoing anti-corruption campaign, which has also led to expulsion of two former defence ministers, Li Shangfu and Wei Fenghe. (ANI) The Federal National Council (FNC) will participate in the 11th G20 Parliamentary Speakers' Summit (P20), which will be hosted by the Parliament of South Africa in collaboration with the IPU from 29 September to 3 October 2025 in Kleinmond, South Africa. It will be held under the theme of the P20 Summit, which is Harnessing parliamentary diplomacy for the realisation of global solidarity, equality and sustainability. The Summit will be preceded by the 2nd P20 Meeting of Women Parliamentarians, which will be held on 29 and 30 September 2025. The Summit will host four high-level sessions on the following topics: "Strengthening disaster resilience and responses"; "Ensuring debt sustainability for low-income countries"; "Mobilising finance for a just energy transition"; and "Harnessing critical minerals for inclusive growth and sustainable development" 2nd P20 Meeting of Women Parliamentarians will focus on: Gender mainstreaming in climate resilience and energy transition. Empowering women in economic decision-making and development planning; Mobilising resources for women-led agricultural and entrepreneurial projects; and Strengthening political representation and leadership of women in legislative bodies Vietnam has mobilised nearly 100,000 military personnel and evacuated about 250,000 people as Typhoon Bualoi approaches the country's central coast, Al Jazeera reported on Sunday, citing local media. The storm, with winds of up to 130 km/h, is the 10th typhoon to hit Vietnam this year and was expected to make landfall later on Sunday, according to the country's meteorology agency. "This is a rapidly moving storm, nearly twice the average speed, with strong intensity and a broad area of impact. It is capable of triggering multiple natural disasters simultaneously, including powerful winds, heavy rainfall, flooding, flash floods, landslides, and coastal inundation," the agency said in a statement. Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has called for the "highest level of readiness" as the storm entered Vietnamese waters, Al Jazeera reported, citing Viet Nam News. In preparation for landfall, at least four airports were shut down, while fishing boats were ordered back to harbour, Al Jazeera reported, citing local media. Authorities also directed residents in coastal areas to secure their vessels. Al Jazeera also reported that three fishermen from Ho Chi Minh City were missing after one vessel sank and another was disabled by large waves off Quang Tri province. Eight others were rescued. The stranded boats were spotted about 1.5km from the mouth of the Cua Viet Channel. In Da Nang, the country's largest city, more than 210,000 residents are being moved to safer ground, state media said. About 32,000 people in Hue, near coastal areas, are also being evacuated. Al Jazeera reported that local authorities in Da Nang mobilised more than 200 workers with trucks, stone, sand, bamboo stakes, and sacks to reinforce the coastline ahead of the storm. Bualoi struck the Philippines on Friday, causing mudslides and flooding. According to the Philippine media, at least 10 people were killed and 10 others remain missing. As per Al Jazeera, the scientists have repeatedly warned that storms in the region are intensifying as the planet warms due to climate change. In Vietnam, more than 100 people were killed or went missing in the first seven months of 2025 due to natural disasters, according to the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development. (ANI) US citizen Amir Amiry, who had been "wrongfully detained" in Afghanistan, has been released and is now back on American soil, the State Department said on Sunday (local time). The US State Department released a statement celebrating Amiry's homecoming and highlighting the critical role of Qatar in securing his release. "Today, thanks to President Trump's leadership and commitment to the American people, the United States welcomes home US citizen Amir Amiry, who was wrongfully detained in Afghanistan," the release stated. "We express our sincere gratitude to Qatar, whose strong partnership and tireless diplomatic efforts were vital to securing his release," it added. Further, the State Department emphasised that "this homecoming reflects this Administration's determination, reinforced by the President's recent Executive Order, to protect US nationals from wrongful detention abroad." The statement also underscored that while this marks an important step forward, "additional Americans remain unjustly detained in Afghanistan." "President Trump will not rest until all our captive citizens are back home. This release today is a significant step by the administration in Kabul to effect that goal," the US State Department noted. Amir Amiry, 36, had been detained in Afghanistan by the Taliban since December 2024. He is the latest American to be released through the United States' security and diplomatic partnership with Qatar, a Gulf state with which the US has maintained a strong relationship for decades, CNN reported. The US does not have a diplomatic presence in Afghanistan, having closed its embassy there after the Taliban takeover in August 2022. The circumstances of why Amiry was in Afghanistan or why he was detained aren't clear, according to CNN. Qatari Minister of State Mohammed Al-Khulaifi said in a statement released by the country's foreign ministry that Qatar "remains committed to advancing mediation efforts aimed at achieving peaceful solutions to conflicts and complex international issues." According to sources, there are at least three other Americans detained in Afghanistan, as well as Paul Overby, who is believed to be deceased. There is hope that this release will be the first of more to come. (ANI) The shipments included 300 tents and 9,000 blankets, aimed at supporting those hardest hit by the disaster. A formal reception was held to welcome the aid, attended by Federal Minister Engr. Amir Muqam, NDMA Chairman, Lt Gen Inam Haider Malik, Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong, and representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), as per ARY News. Chairman NDMA Lt Gen Inam Haider Malik praised China for its continued support, saying China has once again reaffirmed its role as Pakistan's steadfast friend by extending timely relief assistance for flood-affected communities across the country. It will augment the NDMA's relief support for flood-affected areas in Punjab, according to ARY News. Federal Minister Amir Muqam also expressed deep gratitude to the Chinese government and people for their quick response. He noted that the assistance will bring much-needed relief to thousands of flood-affected families. Earlier, Pakistan's National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has reported that at least 1,006 people have died and 3.02 million have been rescued across Pakistan amid severe rains and flash floods since June 26. The NDMA said a total of 5,768 rescue operations were conducted nationwide, during which 273,524 relief items were distributed. Medical treatment was provided to 662,098 individuals at 741 camps set up through coordinated efforts of the NDMA, Provincial Disaster Management Authorities (PDMAs), the Pakistan Army, and other emergency services. Punjab recorded the highest fatalities with 304 deaths, including 110 children, 143 men, and 51 women. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) reported 504 deaths, comprising 90 children, 338 men, and 76 women. Sindh saw 80 deaths, Balochistan 30, Pakistan-occupied Gilgit-Baltistan (PoGB) 41, Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) 38, and Islamabad nine. Nationwide, 1,063 people sustained injuries, with Punjab accounting for 661, K-P 218, Sindh 87, PoGB 52, PoJK 37, Balochistan five, and Islamabad three. Rescue efforts were concentrated in Punjab, where 2.81 million people were evacuated through 4,749 operations. Sindh followed with 184,011 people rescued in 753 operations, and K-P with 14,317 people rescued in 211 operations, The Express Tribune reported. The floods have caused widespread property and infrastructure damage. Nationwide, 12,569 homes were affected, including 4,128 destroyed and 8,441 partially damaged, while 6,509 livestock were lost. At least 239 bridges and 1,981 kilometers of roads were destroyed or damaged. K-P lost 52 bridges and 437 km of roads; PoJK 94 bridges and 201 km of roads; and PoGB 87 bridges and 20 km of roads. Relief distributions included tents, blankets, hygiene kits, ration bags, food packs, and equipment such as solar panels, de-watering pumps, and generators. A total of 1,690 camps were established, comprising 741 medical camps that treated over 662,000 people and 949 relief camps that sheltered 152,252 individuals, The Express Tribune reported. (ANI) KANAGAWA, Sep 28 (News On Japan) - A 24-year-old entrepreneur is drawing attention with a new business model that relies on goats to provide weed control, a service that could also help sustain life in depopulated communities. In Yugawara, Kanagawa Prefecture, goats eagerly graze at a farm established by Yota Maeda, the head of Tokyo-based startup Mujou. Maeda, who launched a funeral services business while still at university, opened the goat farm in 2024. His latest venture offers goat grazing services as an alternative to conventional weeding methods. Unlike machines, the goats consume the grass directly, eliminating the need for herbicides or the burning of clippings. "Their bleating is not particularly disruptive, and the animals dont produce a strong odor," Maeda said. Contracts have already been signed with both businesses and individuals. One client is a large clinical testing facility capable of processing hundreds of thousands of samples daily thanks to advanced automation and AI systems. The company introduced goats into its courtyard on a trial basis, allowing them to handle grass management. "They work tirelessly from morning onward," said Sakuya Odashima from H.U. Group Holdings HR and General Affairs Services Division. Employees also report feeling refreshed by the presence of the goats, with some noting how their greetings at the end of the day boost morale. Behind Maedas project is a strong awareness of broader national issues, particularly the spread of abandoned farmland. By deploying goats, unused land can be restored, which may also help deter wild animal intrusions. "In an era of population decline, we cant maintain everything perfectly, but by leaving animals to graze, the land doesnt lose its potential. Were preserving it in a usable state," Maeda explained. Goat droppings naturally decompose, and Maeda is considering ways to repurpose them as fire starters, aiming to expand the scope of the business further. Source: FNN OSAKA, Sep 28 (News On Japan) - An exhibition dedicated to Tezuka Osamus classic manga Black Jack will open on September 27th at the Abeno Harukas Art Museum in Osaka, with a preview event held for the press ahead of the launch. The exhibition brings together more than 500 original manuscripts drawn by Tezuka, along with materials that shed light on the background of how the work was created. Visitors will also find interactive photo spots that recreate the world of Black Jack using costumes and props. Yoshiki Sawa, professor emeritus at Osaka University who has conducted research into regenerative medicine using iPS cells, attended the preview and noted: From the question of how to cure diseases to the importance of life itself, Black Jack conveys a profound sense of humanism. The exhibition will run from September 27th through December 14th at the Abeno Harukas Art Museum. Source: YOMIURI KOCHI, Sep 29 (News On Japan) - A man kidnapped and believed to have been murdered in Amagasaki, Hyogo Prefecture, has led investigators to a broader case, with police announcing the arrest and indictment of two additional suspects on charges of abandoning a body. The suspects include Ryusei Tokushige, a 33-year-old senior member of the Yamaguchi-gumi crime syndicate, along with another man. According to investigators, they are accused of conspiring with Kohei Mitani, who had already been arrested in June on suspicion of murder, to transport the body of a 23-year-old victim from Kyoto Prefecture to Kochi Prefecture. The body is alleged to have been left in the area surrounding Okawa Village in Kochi. Police believe the two men arranged a vehicle to move the body and may have joined the crime through connections with Mitani. On September 26th, human remains believed to be bones were discovered in a mountainous area of Kochi. Police are conducting forensic tests to confirm whether they belong to the victim and are continuing to investigate the suspects roles in the killing and cover-up. Source: ABCTVnews On Sept 28, 2025, as the world gently marks the 68th International Day of the Deaf, a silent and profound story will unfold across screens one of two schools, two nations, united by a shared language of compassion and hope. Hands of Hope, China's first multilingual documentary exploring the heartfelt stories of deaf educators and communities bridging borders with compassion and understanding, is set to make its inspiring global debut. Co-created by the China Review Studio, Discovery Channel, and China Southern Power Grid (CSG), this documentary is a selected work in the second Image Possibilities Coproduction Plan. From the initial spark of an idea to its final debut, the project unfolded over nearly two transformative years. The production team journeyed across vast distances tens of thousands of kilometers between China and Laos journeys filled with purpose and hope. Through their lens, they captured intimate moments of sincere exchange between deaf communities and educators from both nations, revealing a world rich in silent understanding and profound connection. Their footage bears witness to friendships forged beyond words woven through love, patience, and shared dreams in a silent world that speaks volumes. At the heart of the documentary is a powerful meeting: Sophaphone Heuanglith, the principal of a Lao school for the deaf, and He Jingxian, a former principal of a deaf school in China. Sophaphone, a young woman born in the 1990s, first encountered the deaf community as a teenager. Years of quiet reflection and unwavering bravery led her to establish the Hands of Hope School for the Deaf, a sanctuary of hope and understanding, the only private institution of its kind in Laos. Tucked away on the outskirts of Vientiane, the school is now home to 25 deaf children. Yet the path was not easy. Covering preschool to fourth grade, the school faces persistent challenges scarce teaching resources, a shortage of qualified teachers and limited experience all weighing heavily on Sophaphone and her team. Then, a ray of hope came from an unexpected source. It was in 2022 that CSG, while supplying power to the China-Laos Railway, discovered this special school. Watching Sophaphone's quiet dedication, they felt their hearts stir with inspiration. Under the Light of Hope initiative, they didn't just bring books and toys they brought a splash of color, offering art classes where children found their voices through brushstrokes. Some of their paintings graced the walls of Lao art galleries, silent yet powerful testimonials to the richness of their inner worlds. But Sophaphone carried a deeper dream one she whispered to the volunteers one day: to journey to China, to observe the deaf schools there, to dialogue with Chinese special education professionals, and to bring back advanced experiences to Laos. Her heart yearned for her deaf children in Laos to help them find their independence, integrate better into society, and to welcome a bright future, just like any other children. And so, after almost a year of preparation, she finally set forth on a journey one that would take her beyond mere mountains and borders, into the very core of what makes education truly heartful. In that sacred space, she found someone she calls her "older version" He Jingxian, the former principal of Guangzhou Qicong School. A pioneering figure in Chinese deaf education who was born in the 1940s, He gently and patiently answered all of Sophaphone's questions. Despite the decades that separated them and the differences in their sign languages, the two principals shared an unspoken bond, their connection strengthened by a shared love for deaf children. Over seven days, Sophaphone found herself immersed in a community that was both hauntingly familiar and startlingly new. The radiant smiles of children lit up her heart like a warm homecoming. What truly moved her was witnessing young deaf children in China speaking with unwavering confidence through cochlear implants sign language, once their primary means of communication, still valued for its role. She saw a system that embraced the deaf from their earliest moments, guiding them through every stage of life: from screening and rehabilitation to schooling, careers, and inclusive public services. It was a vision of boundless possibilities. Having fulfilled her cross-border "learning mission", Sophaphone now carries a heart full of hope and anticipation. Yet, amidst her dreams, she faces the shadow of uncertainty how will she navigate the uncharted waters of these very different stages of development? Before saying goodbye, He embraced her warmly and said: "Our hearts share the same mission to help deaf children thrive. Any teacher who stands with them is a good teacher. You will succeed, believe in yourself". Hands of Hope is more than a documentary. It is an earnest letter to the world, a gentle reminder that the strongest bridges are not made of steel, but of silence, trust, and shared dreams. Premiering Sept 28 on Discovery Channel. A story that touches every soul. Portugals Social Democratic Party (PSD), the leading party in the nations governing coalition, has reaffirmed its unwavering support for Moroccos autonomy plan for Sahara. During a parliamentary session on Friday, PSD described the plan as the most serious, credible, and constructive basis to resolve the decades-long territorial dispute. The party emphasized that Portugals position leaves no room for ambiguity, confirming that the government has never recognized or engaged with the self-proclaimed Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR). This stance was reinforced on July 22, 2025, when Morocco and Portugal issued a joint declaration during Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bouritas visit to Lisbon. The PSDs statement came during a debate at the Portuguese parliament on the recognition of Moroccos sovereignty over the Sahara, initiated by the Chega party. Aziz Akhannouch, Moroccos head of government, recently expressed gratitude to Portugal for its clear and strong position during a meeting with his Portuguese counterpart in New York. Morocco first proposed its autonomy plan in 2007, offering self-governance for Sahara under Moroccan sovereignty while maintaining control over defense, foreign affairs, and religious matters. Over the years, the plan has garnered extensive international recognition. A turning point came in December 2020, when the United States formally recognized Moroccos sovereignty over Sahara. This move spurred other major powers, including the UK and France, to follow suit. Frances endorsement in 2024 marked a significant policy shift, with President Emmanuel Macron affirming Moroccos sovereignty as the framework for the regions future. Support for Moroccos position has also grown across Africa, Latin America, and the Middle East, with over 116 countries now backing Moroccos sovereignty. Several nations, such as Ghana, Ecuador, and Panama, have withdrawn their recognition of the Polisario-backed SADR, further weakening the Polisario Front and isolating its key ally, Algeria. Global institutions and partners are increasingly engaging in the region. The United States has encouraged investment in Moroccos southern provinces, signaling confidence in Moroccos long-term control. These developments align with Moroccos broader strategic efforts to position itself as a regional leader and secure stability in Sahara. Portugals renewed endorsement adds to Rabats growing diplomatic momentum, solidifying Moroccos position on the global stage. Foreign ministers of the member states of the Royal Initiative on the Atlantic African States Process (AASP) held their 6th meeting in New York, on the sidelines of the High-Level Week of the 80th United Nations General Assembly. The meeting followed the Africa for the Ocean Summit, held at the initiative of King Mohammed VI in Nice in June, during the 3rd United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC-3). It marks a major milestone in strengthening the Royal Initiative, which aims to deepen cooperation and integration among African states bordering the Atlantic. The meeting also served as an opportunity to announce actions that will further consolidate the ownership and anchoring of this initiative by its members. As a sign of this ownership, Benin will host the next meeting of the AASP FMs in 2026 to continue discussions on the implementation of the Initiative, which is intended to be pragmatic and based on solidarity. AASP is today a living and dynamic reality that is already bearing its first fruits, emphasized Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita, who chaired the meeting. The Atlantic African space harbors 46 major ports connected to global trade routes, and hosts more than 350 million inhabitants, in addition to a combined exclusive economic zone exceeding 13 million km, noted the official. Moreover, this space includes more than 30% of Africas known offshore gas reserves and over 40% of the continents fishery resources, he said, adding that this coastline is a geostrategic and economic backbone of our continent. In this context, Bourita welcomed the concrete progress made since the 5th meeting of the AASP Foreign Ministers, held in Praia, Cape Verde, in May 2025, in particular the discussions on establishing coordination mechanisms necessary for the coherence of collective action, the enrichment of the Action Plan on the blue economy with an aquaculture component, as well as the strengthening of the connectivity dimension through the organization by Morocco, in 2026, of the International Ports Exhibition. The Atlantic African space, argued Bourita, can be a strategic lever, as it is positioned, at the geo-economic level, at the heart of trade routes between Africa, Europe and the Americas, at a time when more than 90% of African trade transits by sea. He also stressed the need to open up to other actors of the Atlantic basin to defend the African vision of a stable, secure and prosperous Atlantic. Bourita, who highlighted the importance of the AASP on the geostrategic level, noted that security is emerging as a central issue, at a time when nearly 60% of piracy incidents recorded in Africa in 2024 occurred in the Gulf of Guinea, and more than 50% of drug trafficking to Europe transits through the Atlantic African space. Moroccos Ministry of Equipment and Water is preparing to organize, in the first quarter of 2026, the International Port Exhibition, where the Royal Initiative will be highlighted as one of its key activities. In preparation for the New York meeting, senior officials from AASP Foreign Ministries held a meeting early September to exchange views on national coordination mechanisms related to the Initiatives implementation. On this occasion, Moroccos national coordination mechanism was presented along with the coordination frameworks established by other member states. Participants unanimously emphasized the need for effective coordination to ensure the initiatives success, as well as the importance of its institutionalization. The AASP is the embodiment of the Royal Initiative aimed at structuring cooperation and integration among the African states that share the Atlantic Ocean, the aim being to enhance their security and co-development. Since its launch in June 2022, the Initiative has gained wide recognition at both regional and international levels. It has now become one of the key instruments of the Kingdoms South-South cooperation dynamic on the African continent. Are microreactors the future of nuclear energy? Someday, nuclear reactors the size of shipping containers could power your hometown, but a huge number of regulatory hurdles will have to be cleared before nuclear power starts popping up in your backyard and public buy-in will be critical. After decades of relatively little change in nuclear power technology, there is currently a flurry of nuclear energy innovation taking place around the world. Scientists are looking into how to make nuclear power production more efficient, cost-effective, safe, and streamlined in response to an ever-growing need for reliable and carbon-free energy production. Like renewable energies, nuclear power is carbon-free, but unlike solar and wind power, the production potential of nuclear power is steady and constant, making it an attractive option for energy security in the decarbonization era. Some of the potential new nuclear technologies garnering investor attention are small reactors and microreactors. In recent years nuclear energy development has been trending toward much smaller models in the interest of lowering up-front development costs and making new nuclear projects more easily deployable. Most of the excitement and investment has been geared toward small modular reactors (SMRs), which many advocates believe could be the backbone of a nuclear renaissance in the United States and other countries that have begun to move away from nuclear power production. These modular models can be mass-produced in a factory setting and installed on-site alone or in clusters to create utility-scale nuclear power plants more quickly and cheaply than traditional large-scale models. Microreactors, which have so far received less attention and funding support than SMRs, are much smaller. While a full-scale nuclear power plant would produce, on average, upward of 700 megawatts, and an individual SMR would produce about 300 megawatts, a microreactors output would be around 10 megawatts. While microreactors are much smaller, they could be used to power entire towns for a relatively low up-front cost, and they have unique selling points compared to SMRs and traditional nuclear power plants. Theyre safer than larger models, and theyre so small that they could be brought in on a truck or barge, hugely easing the installation process. Plus, microreactors do not require any on-site workers for their operation and maintenance, and can be operated remotely and autonomously. Microreactors have the ability to provide clean energy and have passive safety features, which decrease the risk of radioactive releases, Euro News reported earlier this year. They are also much cheaper than bigger plants as they are factory-built and then installed where they are needed in modules. All of these benefits mean that microreactors could be enormously useful in a wide range of contexts. A recent article in The Conversation touts their utility, saying that this technology could benefit college campuses, remote communities in Alaska primarily powered by oil and diesel, tech companies looking for reliable electricity for AI data centers, companies in need of high-temperature heat for manufacturing and industrial processes, mining operations that need a clean energy source and even military bases in search of a secure source of energy. The problem is that while the microreactors themselves would be relatively low-cost, building the facilities to construct these microreactors would be a massive and expensive undertaking. And so far no one has been willing to take that risk. Investors want guaranteed orders before they build such a factory, and potential buyers want to see the technology built, tested, and proven before they place an order. Its a catch-22, says The Conversations Aditi Verma. Theres another considerable downside to widespread deployment of microreactors and small modular reactors surprisingly large amounts of nuclear waste. A Stanford study found that most small modular reactor designs will actually increase the volume of nuclear waste in need of management and disposal, by factors of 2 to 30, said lead author Lindsay Krall. These findings stand in sharp contrast to the cost and waste reduction benefits that advocates have claimed for advanced nuclear technologies. Community buy-in is essential to get microreactors off the ground, but those communities need to seriously consider the cost of managing all that nuclear waste. The many benefits of microreactors may still be worth it, but nuclear waste is a major cost to taxpayers that should not be overlooked. By Haley Zaremba for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com As the dominant producer of enriched uranium, Russia became the worlds main supplier of the fuel needed to power nuclear energy projects, as many countries find it difficult to decrease their dependency on Moscow for the fuel. Russia supplies around 40 percent of the worlds enriched uranium, followed by China (17 percent), France (12 percent), the U.S. (11 percent), the Netherlands (8 percent), the U.K. (7 percent), and Germany (6 percent). Shifting dependence away from Russia has been very difficult, as alternative supplies simply do not exist in the way they do for other energy sources, such as oil and gas. In June, the European Commission said it did not plan to impose limits on the EUs import of Russian enriched uranium alongside a proposal on the potential ban of Russian gas imports by the end of 2027. After initially saying that it would introduce trade measures targeting enriched uranium, the EU energy commissioner Dan Jorgensen said, That will also come, but in the first stage, well be focusing on the gas. He added, The question about nuclear is, of course, complicated, because we need to be very sure that we are not putting countries in a situation where they do not have the security of supply. So, were working as fast as we can to also make that a part of the proposal. In 2023, Russia continued to supply 38 percent of the EUs enriched uranium and 23 percent of its raw uranium, according to the think-tank Bruegel. The EU spent around $1.18 billion on Russian nuclear fuel in 2024, according to EC estimates. Meanwhile, five EU countries Bulgaria, the Czech Republic, Finland, Hungary and Slovakia all have Russian-designed reactors that were developed to run on Russian fuel. All except Hungary have now signed deals to use alternative suppliers, although the shift away from Russian uranium is expected to take several years. Meanwhile, the global demand for enriched uranium is expected to grow significantly in the coming decades as several countries invest in a new era of nuclear expansion. A report published by the World Nuclear Association (WNA) in September said that the global demand for uranium is expected to increase by almost a third to around 86,000 tonnes by 2030 and to rise to 150,000 tonnes by 2040. However, to meet this demand while decreasing reliance on Russian uranium, several countries will need to invest in accelerated permitting, mining innovations, and new exploration for uranium. The report showed that uranium production from existing mines is expected to halve between 2030 and 2040, resulting in a significant supply gap. As many countries around the globe begin to invest in new nuclear reactors, as well as alternative projects such as small modular reactors (SMRs), there will simply not be enough fuel to power these operations if greater efforts are not made to finance new uranium operations. Kazakhstan is currently the world-leader in uranium production, now contributing 40 percent of the global supply, of which the country owns around half. Meanwhile, Russia continues to dominate the worlds enrichment capacity. The worlds uranium market is seeing annual growth of between one to two percent, according to estimates. Boris Schucht, the CEO of uranium enrichment firm Urenco, said, Its a small, growing market. Its a limited market, [thats] not very big, and its very expensive to develop technologies in this market. So that makes the market pretty complex. The Dutch-British-German consortium decided to terminate all its existing Russian contracts in 2022 and now aims to increase its capacity of Low Enriched Uranium (LEU) by 1.8 million Separative Work Units across its four sites in Eunice, New Mexico, the Netherlands, Germany, and the U.K. This is one of many companies looking to start to increase their LEU supply to meet the growing global demand. The U.S. has ramped up efforts to mine uranium in recent years, increasing production from 22,680 kg in 2023 to 307,082 kg in 2024. It commenced large-scale exploration drilling activities in 2024, in a bid to reduce reliance on Russia, drilling 1,324 holes. Under the Biden administration, the U.S. Department of Energy worked to expand domestic commercial LEU. Before leaving office, in December, Biden announced the selection of six companies from which it can sign contracts to procure LEU to incentivise the development of new uranium production capacity in the United States. Meanwhile, in 2024, the U.K. said it would be the first European nation to produce advanced nuclear fuel, with plans to develop Europes first high-assay low-enriched uranium (HALEU) facility. The U.K. government awarded $267.1 million to Urenco to develop the enrichment facility, which is expected to start producing fuel in 2031, and will be ready for domestic use and export within the next decade. The global demand for enriched uranium is expected to grow significantly in the coming decades in response to a nuclear revival in several countries. However, producing the uranium needed to fuel a new nuclear era will be extremely complex, due to the strict sectoral regulations and the current limited global production capacity. Greater funding must be invested in research and development, as well as into new production facilities around the globe to support the worlds nuclear energy aims. By Felicity Bradstock for Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com On September 27, Remembrance Day, the rectors of several Turkish universities visited Victory Park, one of the symbolic sites of the Patriotic War, during their visit to Azerbaijan organized by the State Committee on Work with Diaspora, Azernews reports. The delegation included rectors from I?d?r, Kars Kafkas, Artvin Coruh, A?r? ?brahim Cecen, Bolu ?zzet Abant Baysal, Erzurum Technical, Van Yuzuncu Y?l, and Ardahan universities. Together with the staff of the State Committee on Work with Diaspora, they laid flowers at the memorial stone and paid deep respect to the memory of the martyrs who gave their lives for Azerbaijan's independence and territorial integrity. It is also noted that Azerbaijani diaspora organizations around the world held numerous events in connection with Remembrance Day. In over 20 countries, Azerbaijani Houses created memorial corners and organized commemorative events to inform local communities about the significance of this important date. By Jason Williams, Williams is a writer, researcher and founder of the Taxpayers Association of Oregon Charlie Kirks funeral received as much as 100 million views making a milestone. One of the central themes of his funeral was Charlie Kirks life-defining Bible verse from Isaiah 6:8, Here I am Lord, send me. Charlie felt like a person sent on a mission because he went to places other didnt. To everyones astonishment he was able to get through barriers set by universities and was able to draw students by the thousands. His life was under constant death threats. On the day of the shooting, Charlies mentor, Frank Turek, looked around and cautioned him that there were too many buildings and that it didnt feel safe. Yet, outdoor venues were often the only way to speak on a college campus because of the barriers. Charlie felt he had to reach the thousands before him despite the risks. The verse, Isaiah 6:8, comes from the Jewish prophet Isaiah. He had a powerful vision of being before heavens throne with God making a request and Isaiah replying Here I am, send me! Because Isaiah said yes that day, he would go on to write the Bibles biggest book (measured by number of chapters). What Isaiah said would dramatically shape our world today. Isaiahs words on the virgin birth and the messiah make up much of Christmas carols we sing today. Isaiahs message of peace, They shall beat their swords into plowshares, And their spears into pruning hooks; Nation shall not lift up sword against nation, Neither shall they learn war anymore is inscribed outside the United Nations and is cited as one of the most common peace quotes used by world leaders of all religions. Isaiahs poetry has inspired great poets like T.S. Elliot, Walt Witman, WB Yeats, Lord Byron, and even C.S. Lewis Narnia world and Bob Dylans song All along the watchtower which was once rated in the top 50 greatest songs of all time. Sadly, because Isaiah spoke against the rulers of his age, he was killed just like Charlie Kirk. This engaging verse, Isaiah 6:8, has played a role in my life. When I was preparing to travel to Israel, I had to decide what prayers to bring to place inside the sacred Western Wall in Jerusalem. I called my Portland Jewish friend, Serge DRovencourt, and asked if he had a prayer request. He sent me a prayer which asked for safekeeping for his parents in the afterlife. You see, as a young man during WWII, he had Nazis storm his house. He escaped on the roof, but his parents were captured, taken away and killed in the Holocaust. Some 60 years later, he still grieved over that fateful day. Serge would later leave Europe and change his last name to hide his Jewish identity. It was another example of what happened in the past continued to bear a burden for today. My own prayer for the Western Wall was Isaiah 6:8 as it acted as a way of being open to go anywhere and do anything for heavens calling. To me, both prayers complimented each other. One prayer illuminated that there is oppression in the world and that people are living with a lifetime of hurt, and the other prayer is a commission to go find the oppressed, heal them and advocate for them. By pledging to live Isaiah 6:8 and telling God that you are willing to go anywhere, it was not long before a door was opened. Be careful what you ask for. An earthquake hit Haiti and for the first time in my life someone asked me to join a team to help. We visited a girls orphanage and delivered them clothes and hygiene supplies. These girls shrieked with excitement over getting a new shirt, shorts and socks. Everything these girls had fit inside a grocery bag. Yet, they did not even have a grocery bag, as they had nothing but the bunk beds they were crammed into. Our team leader saw this and pledged to return the next day with cubbyhole shelves. We built shelves that very afternoon, and upon our return the next day the girls again shrieked in joy for having something as simple as a shelf space to call their own. The ability to completely improve someones life with simple gestures was downright stunning and life-changing. This is why we need to heed Isaiah 6:8 and be willing to go anywhere to help others. You have no idea how much you can change someones life around the world. I wasnt the only person to go Haiti after the earthquake. The United Nations came to offer help by setting up mass shelters. Tragically, nearly a quarter of all the people in the shelters were people from the rural areas, not impacted by the earthquake at all. These people took up the chance to leave their home and farms in exchange for free food and supplies (and no work). Hillary and Bill Clintons Foundation also helped Haiti. They decided the best way to help was to hand out thousands of free cell phones to every Haitian. This destroyed the local phone shops, which sent people into unemployment at the worst possible time. Would you believe, that one of the Clinton Foundation donors is one of the Haitian phone companies that was used for the mass-purchase and consequently ruined their rivals? Simply put, politicians efforts to help others made things worse in many cases. These toxic charities examples are not exclusive to just politicians. It happens to everyone. The Haitian camp we worked from was built to help other religious charities have a safe place to operate from. This worked for a few years, but soon these visiting guest charities began to enter into big financial exchanges that changed the nature of the project. The one-on-one relationships between everyday helping Americans and Haitians began to disappear. They were drowned out by the peoples addiction and focus to the charities with the big checks. The people that originally built the camp felt compelled to exit the ministry and left the camp that they built to others. I share this complicated and compelling story on toxic charities in Haiti to emphasize that it is irreplaceable on the essential need for people to go out to needy places in the world and help others one-on-one and not just leaving the role of helping others to governments, politicians and organizations. We Americans, feel erroneously that sending money can solve every problem. Yet, it cannot replace creating relationships. Even showing up in person to see how other churches and charities are spending money overseas is essential to their accountability. Since I made myself available to go anywhere under the calling of Isaiah 6:8, I have done charity projects in 18 countries. Every trip I took has dramatically grown my appreciation for America and our widespread blessings and prosperity. Every overseas trip has drawn me closer to people and to God. I encourage you to adopt the Isaiah 6:8 calling and be willing to go anywhere you are needed. Be willing to talk to anyone in need. This calling worked for Charlie Kirk, it worked for me, it will work for you. POST-SCRIPT: Americans above all other people have the greatest open door to changing our world. First, the entire world has made English their second language by default. After visiting 63 nations, I have yet to find an airport that did not have English signs everywhere. When a native person travels to a foreign country, they often learn English to get around. Second, Americans have incredible purchasing power. Even the average wage of Americas poorest state, Alabama, is still greater than most European nations. Americans can visit needy places in the world on a budget. Their ability to donate is disproportionately in our favor, as just landing in other countries will expand the value of your dollar by four times the value . Thirdly, Showing up is a tremendous sign of respect and love. Having people travel from far away to help garnishes an incredible amount of attention and admiration. Having someone come from America always garnishes more attention because America dominates the worlds news headlines and our entertainment culture floods the airwaves. For these reasons, Americans have such a wide open access to the world that most do not have. You are needed. Please go. Akbar Novruz, Azernews Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogans visit to the United States for the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly is being closely watched as a potential turning point in US-Turkiye relations. Unlike previous Democratic administrations, which largely avoided direct engagement with Ankara, the Trump administrations approach provides Turkiye with an opportunity to negotiate across a wide range of strategic, economic, and security issues. What kind of turning point might the Erdogan-Trump meeting represent in US-Turkiye relations? What could be the key strategic benefits Turkiye might gain from these talks? What possible effects could this meeting have on the Palestinian issue? How might this meeting influence Turkiye's role within NATO or its relations with Russia? Prof. Dr. Irfan Kaya Ulger, political science expert at Kocaeli University, shared insights with Azernews on the four-day visit. On the first day, Erdogan attended a conference sponsored by Saudi Arabia and France focused on resolving the Palestinian issue peacefully and promoting the two-state solution. Erdogan then attended the eightyeth session of the UN General Assembly on Tuesday. He spoke third, after US President Trump and the President of Indonesia. He will attend the climate summit on Wednesday, Ulger explained. The high-level bilateral meeting with Trump on Thursday is expected to be particularly significant. This meeting will strengthen bilateral trade and military relations between Turkiye and the US. Turkiye will also express its views strongly on the issues of Gaza, the establishment of peace in Syria under the new administration, and other regional disputes, Ulger said. Military and defense priorities A central focus of the discussions will be Turkiyes return to the F-35 program, from which it was previously removed due to sanctions. The meeting will also cover the purchase of forty F-16 Block 70 fighter jets. Trump needs to be persuaded to agree on these matters. From a commercial perspective, the purchase of approximately 250300 Boeing passenger jets is underway. Turkiye requires 500 jets, half of which will come from Boeing and the other half from European Airbus. Erdogan also reduced and lifted tariffs on some US agricultural and industrial products at the beginning of his visit, creating a favorable negotiation environment for Thursday, Ulger said. However, the F-35 and F-16 acquisitions will not depend solely on Trumps decision. Congressional approval is necessary. Currently, the Republican Party holds a strong position in Congress. There is a strong possibility that the sale of these F-16 and F-35 jets to Turkiye will be approved before November 5th. If it is delayed beyond this date, the approval process will become more difficult, Ulger noted. The military gains are crucial for Turkiye. The most important things Turkiye can gain from this meeting are weapons in this last industrial area because Turkiye currently faces an air force shortage until domestic aircraft production begins. It will either procure fighter jets from European-based organizations or from the US. There is a strong possibility of both, Ulger said. Political and regional dimensions Beyond military issues, Erdo?an is expected to press for US support in Syria. Turkiye is sensitive to the strengthening of the administration in Syria under Ahmed E?ar. Erdogan expects US support in this regard. Trump supports it, but the Pentagon and Centcom have obstructed implementation on the ground. This may be resolved in this meeting, Ulger explained. Erdogan has also consistently highlighted the Gaza conflict. Although Israel targeted Hamass negotiating team by attacking Doha, efforts to achieve a ceasefire continue behind the scenes. Erdo?an, along with leaders of Muslim countries and in the presence of Trump, discussed the possibility of a ceasefire on Tuesday. Achieving consensus here is crucial for Turkiyes international influence, Ulger said. Turkiye is also pushing for a revival of the two-state solution. The two-state solution is referenced in numerous UN resolutions, such as Security Council resolutions 242 and 338, envisioning Israel returning to its 1967 borders and establishing a Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital. Recognition of the State of Palestine has risen to 178 countries and may increase further. Turkiyes contributions toward ending the conflict and reviving the peace process are extraordinary, he added. NATO and Russia Erdo?ans visit carries implications for NATO and Turkiyes relations with Russia. Turkiye is the most powerful NATO country after the US in terms of military and land forces. There is growing resistance within NATO against American patronage, and Turkiye has often acted independently to defend its national interests, Ulger said. In Ukraine, Turkiye and Russia have cooperated to limit the conflicts impact, through corridor agreements and prisoner exchanges, although substantive issues remain unresolved. Turkiye did not join Western sanctions, and its trade with Russia has doubled or tripled. While Turkiye and Russia are often in conflict in Syria, the Caucasus, and Central Asia, dialogue remains essential. Erdogan-Putin leadership diplomacy has proven effective in resolving deadlocks, as seen in the Syrian context with Iran also involved, Ulger explained. Looking ahead, Ulger suggests that while the Trump administration may eventually revert to traditional US policies in support of Ukraine, Erdogans diplomacy with Russia could prevent escalation. Progress can be made through bilateral dialogue, and leader-to-leader engagement can limit conflict escalation. NATOs collective and proactive action, combined with Erdogan-Putin dialogue, could play a key role in shaping regional stability, he concluded. MOSCOW (Reuters) -Belarus is proposing to build a nuclear power plant in the east of the country that could supply electricity to Russian-controlled parts of Ukraine, President Alexander Lukashenko said on Friday. Lukashenko put the idea to Russian President Vladimir Putin at Kremlin talks in Moscow. "If a decision is made, we will immediately begin building a new power unit or a new station if there is a need (for electricity) in western Russia and in the liberated regions," Lukashenko said, employing the language that Moscow uses to describe Ukrainian territory captured by Russia. The offer underlined the close ties between Putin and Lukashenko, even as U.S. President Donald Trump pursues a strategy of offering incentives to the Belarusian leader to free political prisoners and improve relations with the West. Putin responded that "financing is not an issue at all. If there is a consumer who will take electricity and pay the required tariff, it's not a problem at all." Belarus is a close ally of Moscow and has backed its war in Ukraine, including by allowing Putin's troops to use its territory to enter Ukraine in 2022. Putin meets with Lukashenko more frequently than with any other foreign leader. By Manoj Kumar NEW DELHI (Reuters) -Taiwan is seeking to double its exports of chips and electronics to India over the next five to seven years as smartphone shipments from the country ramp up thanks to demand from the U.S., the head of the island's main trade body said. India's smartphone exports to the U.S., which are currently exempt from elevated tariffs, jumped nearly 40% from a year earlier to $8.43 billion in the first five months of the fiscal year that started in April, according to industry estimates, driven largely by demand for Apple's iPhones. "Electronic industries are driving the growth of trade between our two countries," said James C. F. Huang, chairman of the Taiwan External Trade Development Council, in an interview on the sidelines of the Taiwan Expo trade fair on Thursday. Huang is a former Taiwanese foreign minister. "I believe in the next five to seven years, the trade and investment which we have in India can double." Major Taiwanese firms have to date invested about $5 billion in Indian manufacturing, according to Taiwanese officials. Last year, Powerchip Semiconductor joined with Tata Electronics in an $11 billion venture to build India's first chip plant to be driven by artificial intelligence. The plant, in Gujarat state, was part of a $10 billion government incentive scheme. And earlier this year, Apple supplier Foxconn unveiled a $1.5 billion investment in its India unit as it shifted more production out of tariff-plagued China. Huang downplayed concerns that higher U.S. tariffs on Indian goods could hurt Taiwanese businesses. "I dont think its going to affect Taiwan-India trade relations or investment relations," he said, pointing to Indias large domestic market and growing opportunities in petrochemicals, textiles and electronics. Huang said several Taiwanese companies are investing in India, bringing in more components from Taiwan and building a local supply chain to support operations in the country. Taiwan's exports to India topped $10 billion in 2024, led by chips, electronic components and machinery. Just five years earlier, the total stood at about $4 billion, according to data from the Indian government. Like most countries, India has no formal diplomatic ties with Taiwan, but they have built a close commercial relationship. Government officials have said New Delhi is eager to draw more investment from the island, a major chip producer. (Reporting by Manoj Kumar, editing by Thomas Derpinghaus) An Airbus A321 aircraft operated by Turkish Airlines, flying on the AshgabatIstanbul route, made an emergency landing at Heydar Aliyev International Airport after the captain reported a passenger experiencing a serious health issue on board, Azernews reports. According to the international airport, the plane safely landed at Baku airport at 08:30 local time. Emergency medical assistance was immediately provided to the passenger, and their condition was placed under medical supervision. Heydar Aliyev International Airport consistently operates in accordance with international safety regulations and rapid response standards, providing reliable support to airlines and passengers. SINGAPORE A woman was found lying motionless at the foot of a Toa Payoh HDB block on Sept 25, and was pronounced dead at the scene. She is believed to have been a domestic worker who fell while cleaning windows. In response to queries from The Straits Times, the police said they received a call for assistance at Toa Payoh Lorong 7 Block 9 at 8am that day. A 39-year-old woman was found lying motionless at the foot of that block, the police said. The Singapore Civil Defence Force said its paramedic pronounced the woman dead at the scene. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The police said that based on preliminary investigations, they do not suspect foul play. The maids employer told Chinese-language news outlet Shin Min Daily News that the domestic worker had likely fallen while cleaning windows. Shin Min Daily News reporters at the scene said they saw several police vehicles and a blue police tent erected at the scene, with significant bloodstains visible on the ground. The maid had begun employment only on Sept 20, her employer told Shin Min Daily News. The employer added that she and her family were asleep when the incident happened. The employer is a 50-year-old woman working in the human resources sector, according to Shin Min Daily News. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement ST has contacted the Ministry of Manpower for more information. Police investigations are ongoing. Source: The Straits Times SPH Media Limited. Permission required for reproduction Discover how to enjoy other premium articles here On the afternoon of September 27, 2025, Premier Li Qiang of the State Council returned to Beijing by chartered plane after attending the general debate of the 80th session of the United Nations (UN) General Assembly and related high-level events. Upon leaving New York, Premier Li was seen off at the airport by Permanent Representative of China to the UN Fu Cong, Chinese Ambassador to the United States Xie Feng, and Chinese Consul General in New York Chen Li, among others. On September 26, 2025, Member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Vice Premier of the State Council Ding Xuexiang and Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak co-chaired the 22nd meeting of the China-Russia Energy Cooperation Committee in Beijing. Ding Xuexiang stated that energy cooperation is a model of equal, mutually beneficial and practical cooperation between China and Russia. In recent years, President Xi Jinping has had multiple meetings and conversations with President Vladimir Putin, engaged in in-depth strategic communication, and guided the continuous consolidation and development of the comprehensive energy partnership between China and Russia, bringing tangible benefits to the people of both countries. China is ready to work with Russia to further implement the important common understandings reached between the two heads of state, elevate energy cooperation to a higher level, and make greater contributions to ensuring the energy security and sustainable development of both countries and the world at large. Ding Xuexiang put forward three suggestions on deepening practical cooperation between China and Russia in various fields of energy. First, deepen the integration of interests, steadily advance the construction and operation of key projects, and consolidate major achievements in energy cooperation. Second, leverage complementary advantages, tap into the potential for cooperation in areas such as renewable energy, hydrogen energy and energy storage, and promote energy transition and development. Third, strengthen coordination and collaboration, jointly practice true multilateralism, and advance the implementation of the Global Governance Initiative in the energy sector. Alexander Novak said that under the strategic guidance of the two heads of state, Russia-China energy cooperation has yielded fruitful results. The Russian side is willing to make joint efforts with the Chinese side to give full play to the guiding and coordinating role of the Russia-China Energy Cooperation Committee, expand energy cooperation between the two countries, advance the implementation of established projects, and better support the high-level development of Russia-China relations. During the meeting, the two sides reviewed the cooperation in areas such as oil, natural gas, coal, electricity, renewable energy and nuclear energy, had an in-depth exchange of views on future cooperation, and reached broad consensus. After the meeting, Ding Xuexiang and Alexander Novak jointly signed the meeting minutes. How to Do It is Slates sex advice column. Have a question? Send it to Stoya and Rich here. Its anonymous. Dear How to Do It, I am a 47-year-old man, happily married for 20 years. My sex life with my wife used to be greatour goal was to have each of us have an amazing orgasm. In the last few years, however, Im usually the person whos left without one. Recently, because of a combination of diabetes and antidepressants, I started suffering from erectile dysfunction and anorgasmia. This has confused my wife. She wonders if I am still attracted to her, or if theres something shes not doing right. She feels bad having orgasms when I do not. When I do climax, it feels like I won the lottery. She tells me she is happy and comforts me. The problem is, she never initiates sex anymore. Her taking the lead used to get me very excited and ready to roll. She knows I need a lot of foreplay to get things going, but ever since the E.D. and anorgasmia, she doesnt try things like oral sex anymore. I have told her I need foreplay if she wants to get my engine started, but she thinks because she is naked, that should be enough to get me ready. Its not that simple. I need to watch porn to get me started these days. Is it because she is trying to recognize my issue and is more comfortable with me initiating and prepping for sex? Is she losing interest in having sex with me because of my erection/orgasm issues? I dont want to sound insensitive and ask her that question directly, so I need help navigating ways to tell her I need more foreplay? Need Help Crossing the Finish Line Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Dear Need Help Crossing the Finish Line, Maybe instead of asking these uncomfortable questions, you should lead with statements. You seem to have a good grasp on what you need and what your wife isnt providing, so let her know. You can explain to her that you enjoy your sex life with her and want it to continue. Acknowledge your anorgasmia and tell her that your current condition means you need to work a bit harder than before. Is she game? Remind her that her initiation has had great results, that foreplay and oral help facilitate what you both want so much: your orgasm. Ask her if shed be OK with watching porn to get going. Frame it all as wanting to stay close and connected to her. This is just what you need to get there. I dont think you need to confront her reasons for her change in approach if you feel that this line of questioning wont lead anywhere positive. If she were to offer this information, it might be illuminating but its probably more important to stay focused on the practical. A conversation grounded in positivity and connection, one that looks toward improving what you cherish, may be the most effective way of getting what you want here. If you arent received or have a hard time expressing yourself and see no movement in the bedroom, consider couples counseling. It could provide an even bigger communication boost. Advertisement Get advicesubmit a question! Please keep questions short (<150 words), and dont submit the same question to multiple columns. We are unable to edit or remove questions after publication. Use pseudonyms to maintain anonymity. Your submission may be used in other Slate advice columns and may be edited for publication. Thanks! Your question has been submitted. Dear How to Do It, * Your letter signoff Your pronouns Your email (optional and confidentialplease include if you're open to How to Do It following up) Submit Dear How to Do It, I have a friend who is secretly gay. He and his wife have been married for five years and have a two-year-old. He comes from a very conservative Christian background, and his wife has no idea as to his true orientation. The thing is that I have been letting my friend and his boyfriend use my place as a love nest. Im often traveling on business, so stopping off to care for my dogs gives him the perfect cover. Is it wrong of me to facilitate his cheating? Accomplice or Ally? Advertisement Dear Accomplice or Ally?, If only all of your choices were as shrewd as the pseudonym you gave your secretly gay friend! If cheating is wrongand it isthen aiding and abetting it is as well. The road to coming out is sometimes paved with lies. This is not ideal, but neither is the ubiquity of homophobia in the world we live in. Many of these lies are forgiven by those close to the queer person in question, upon their coming outnot for the sake of excusing unethical behavior, but in tacit understanding of the difficulty people have negotiating their sexuality in a world that is often openly hostile to it. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement For this reason, I think assisting in this cheating is a worse look than the actual cheating. Youre a disinterested third party. Your behavior cannot be dismissed or understood as an identity crisis or misstep on the path to self-acceptance. Youre just helping someone do something that is admittedly shitty, even if his situation is so complicated that he feels like he has no other choice. Were you unaware of your friends specific use of your place, I think youd be less morally culpable. If you had some kind of understanding that he could use your place for whatever he sees fit in exchange for caring for your animals, fine. Plausible deniability might help you sleep better at night. But beyond exploring his sexuality, this guy is cheating on his wife and youre helping with that. If you have any moral qualms about that, you should tell him to find his own place. Hes an adult, he can shell out for hotels. This shouldnt be easy for him anywaythe hardship of maintaining a lie and finding a venue in which to live that lie can be enough to prompt someone to finally come out, which is the right thing to do ultimately, conservative Christianity be damned. Advertisement Advertisement Send Us Your Questions About the Workplace! The columnists behind our advice column, Good Job, want to help you navigate your social dynamics at work. Does your colleague constantly bug you after hours? Has an ill-advised work romance gone awry? Ask us your question here! Dear How to Do It, I like to watch online porn when my wife isnt in the mood for sex. Once she found out, she accused me of cheating on her (Im not). Trying to explain to her that this is no different than using any other masturbation aid has only resulted in her calling me a liar and saying that if I really loved her I would give up the digital whores. I think she is being unfair and paranoid; If she wanted to watch adult content online, I would be fine with it. What can I do to convince her this is harmless? Whacked for Wacking Advertisement Dear Whacked for Wacking, Im with you: Masturbation isnt cheating and whatever aids you use in your solo adventures are fair game. The only way this could be credibly construed as cheating is if your wife had previously told you that she has an issue with your porn use and you agreed not to indulge in it. Im assuming thats not the case here, so shes foisting her subjective morality onto you. A losing endeavor. Advertisement Advertisement Her reaction does create an opportunity for further conversation. Why does she think your porn use is cheating? Why does she think it has anything to do with her, or is her business at all? And, most importantly, what does she think you should do when youre horny and she doesnt want to have sex? Maybe she has guidelines by which youd be OK abiding. Maybe she thinks you should sit on your hands and wait around for her to get in the mood. I dont think you should cave, necessarily, because I think its unreasonable and controlling for one partner to tell another what they can and cannot do when masturbating. But her answers could be illuminating and you could perhaps argue your case better knowing where she is coming from. She can tell you what she thinks you should do, and you can reject this. You dont have to behave in a way that she would like, and she can either deal with that or make choices so that she doesnt have to deal with that. Advertisement Advertisement Hopefully, it doesnt get too serious. One thing I want to warn you against, though, is drawing false equivalences during this conversation (or series of conversations). It doesnt really matter whether youd be OK with her watching porn. As a porn consumer, you better take that stance lest you surrender to hypocrisy. Besides, the issue isnt about her potential porn use, its about your actual porn use and her reaction to it. Stay on topic. Rich More Advice From Slate My husband and I havent had sex in two years. To protest this, Ive been staging a shower strike. Why should I shower if no ones gonna be down there, you know? Only, I dont think its working. Im getting crustier and crustier, and my husband isnt budging. Id really like to have sex, but were at a standstill over this. What should I do? When people ask who inspired me to be a journalist, the name that always pops into my head is Nev Schulman. It was through Schulman and his early internet culture filmturnedTV series Catfish that I learned how to protect myself online. Growing up, I had an abstinence-only perspective on the internet, courtesy of my parents; I was warned not to believe anything I saw and not to meet anyone I chatted with. But of course I stumbled onto websites I didnt intend to and received messages I didnt ask for. Hours of watching Schulman and his co-hosts uncover the webs of lies strangers spin online made me an expert at recognizing internet red flags without having to contact an MTV production to get myself untangled. After nine seasons over 12 years, MTV has canceled Catfish. Im not surprised: The show gave millions of people the tools to do exactly what its hosts did. Ive reverse-image-searched many questionable Facebook profile pictures, paid for reverse-phone-lookup directories to trace suspicious numbers, and tracked down addresses of my high school teachers out of sheer boredom, all because of a series on the same network as Ridiculousness. The show attracted negative attention at times. In 2018 crew members were accused of sexual misconduct by a former participant; in 2014 Schulman revealed in his memoir that he was tossed out of Sarah Lawrence College for punching a woman. But viewers pushed through the controversies because Catfish was salacious and revealing. Catfish predated the rabid online culture surrounding true crime fandom, the dominance of dating app culture, and the advanced tactics of scam culture. The film and show that followed coined the term catfishing, which is the creation of a fake identity or online persona to deceive, scam, or manipulate other parties. Its a term that everyoneeven my online-wary parentsnow knows, and one that helped define this internet era. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement It all started when a 24-year-old boy from New York fell in love online. Schulmans girlfriend was skinny, artsy, a child prodigyTumblrs perfect manic pixie dream girl. But after thousands of messages and phone calls coupled with broken promises to meet or video chat, it became deeply, unsettlingly clear to Schulman that the love of his life was not who she said she was. In 2010 Schulmans brother Ariel and Henry Joost made a documentary called Catfish, and it became one of the preeminent pieces of internet filmmaking. It carried the tone of The Blair Witch Project, with retina-scorching blue-light imagery of spicy Facebook messages, underscored with looming music, handheld footage of sketchy back roads, and the ultimate heartbreaking payoff that Schulmans beloved was, in fact, a 39-year-old woman. Related From Slate A New Show Argues That a Man Behind One of the Butchest Brands in Beer Was Gay. But Did His Affairs Really Almost Ruin the Company? Read More Each episode of the MTV series starts with an innocent, well-intentioned person who started chatting with a stranger online, usually through Facebook. And instead of asking for money or trying to steal their victims identity, all this liar wants is to fall in love. The shows nearly 300 episodes have featured people in committed, sometimes yearslong relationships via only breathy phone calls and overtly romantic messages. Schulman and co-host Max Joseph ask their subject a series of telling, rudimentary questions: Why havent you met? Hes a model, so he travels a lot! Why havent you video chatted? His laptop camera is broken! Why are you so devoted to someone youve never met? Shes the love of my life. Advertisement Advertisement Catfish asks: What if your rom-com was actually a horror film? In a way, the show is about romance: The protagonists of these episodes usually reach out to producers because they can no longer take the ambiguity of not meeting their online partner. They feel an all-consuming desire for a person who has offered every possible excuse to avoid meeting face-to-face. And this love, once exciting, has now become a trap. Schulman and Joseph are enlisted to end the rom-com and press Record on the horror film. Advertisement Its fitting to me that Catfish is ending in 2025, when authenticity is the rarest online currency. Many of the shows catfishes admit they created hyperidealized versions of themselves on the internet as an act of fantasy worldbuilding. This phenomenon has now transferred to our reliance on artificial intelligence, including to chatbots that have been used to create deeply predictive and frictionless romantic relationships with their users. MTVs catfishes were selling and seeking companionship, care, and attention. The difference now is that we know there isnt a real person on the other side of the chat. In a way, this might be healthier: LLM daters arent expecting a supermodel-gorgeous lover to walk through their door. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement In the first episode of the series, from 2012, an 18-year-old woman is coming to terms with her sexuality by catfishing other women as a male model. She refuses to take accountability for the hurt shes caused. Then, in a separate meeting with Schulman, she reveals that she was bullied in high school and started catfishing as a way to control her narrative. To not be a loser in her own story. Some version of this reasoning would be repeated by catfishes for more than a decadeand I never got tired of watching it. Catfish taught me that although some people online are more innocent than others, many of us reach online to control what we can. And even if you are the victim of a catfish, that catfish was the victim of some person or system too. I wouldnt fret too much for hosts Schulman and Joseph. Joseph left the show in 2018 after directing a feature film starring Zac Efron and Emily Ratajkowski. Schulman has decided to become a real estate agent, and I would love nothing more than to see him on Selling Sunset. Nonetheless, I will mourn this era of Catfish. The show has given us at least three iconic moments that still appear on my timeline today. Now, if they could only find a way to stop scam phone calls, thatd be a reboot worth watching. Sign up for the Slatest to get the most insightful analysis, criticism, and advice out there, delivered to your inbox daily. On more than one occasion, I have watched my mother regale the room with a truly awful story involving a family cat and its botched pregnancy. I wont belabor the detailstrust me, you dont want to hear thembut, basically, when I was young, a cat we owned that had been previously spayed somehow became fecund with a litter of kittens. This required veterinary intervention, since the cat no longer possessed the biological ability to bear its offspring. She survived the emergency C-section, but, one by one, the way-too-premature babies died. It is a hilariously macabre tale, with no real punch line, irony, or lessons to be derived. But nevertheless, in the early stages of dating the woman who would become my wife, I watched my mom slowly unfurl this saga to her while we all sat around the fireplace. I could barely believe what I was hearing. I cringed and screamed and laughed in bewilderment. I sank my head into my hands when I realized that nothing I could do would stop her. Afterward, I went for another drink, eager to scrub the image of emaciated stillbirth from my brain. The dead kittens are just one of many tragedies my mom is fond of recalling. There was, of course, the roofer who lost his family in Ukraine, or the various ancillary neighbors who are suffering from inoperable cancers, or the people on the nightly news who tumbled off the cliffs in San Diego to their untimely death. After I moved away from home in 2010, our phone calls became marked by this strange ritualme sitting silently, getting blindsided by yet another example of lifes rampant cruelty. It was enough to make me concerned. Was my mom getting lambasted by untold destruction everywhere she looked? Was she living some sort of Final Destinationesque existence? No, not exactly. Because, after talking to others who were settling into a new phase of life with their parents, I began to realize that my mom is not unique in this regard. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement The term Ive come to use for this phenomenon is Doom Mom. It refers to any mother who, apropos of nothing, might fling themself into an anecdote of unimaginable anxiety or sorrow for an audience of their children. The main characters of these tales generally arent anyone the audience knows intimately. Instead, inexplicably, the calamities usually center on erstwhile middle school acquaintances or second cousins who seem to exist exclusively on Facebook. The resulting narrative tends to be a mad-libbing of half-remembered names and places mined from the fringes of familial consciousness, and at the end of the story, everyone winds up dead. She once called me to tell me that the woman who cut my hair as a child died in a drunk-driving accident, said Bryn McLain, a 29-year-old who works in hospitality. Its always out of context and seemingly random. Advertisement Sarah Floyd, who is 33 and works at a university, has experienced this phenomenon as well. A couple weeks ago, we were at the beach, and she kept telling us about dogs dying, sometimes in really horrible ways, she said. These werent dogs she personally knew. Many of them were dogs on Instagram that she follows. We finally had to tell her to stop talking about dead dogs in front of our nieces and nephews. The Doom Mom quality was most saliently observed on the evening of Dec. 26, 2019, in a canonical tweet by television writer Jeff Loveness: Now comes that special time of Adult Christmas, where its just you and your mom in the kitchen, and she tells you the saddest thing youve ever heard. The post has since received over 200,000 likes, a clear recognition of the eldritch terrors mothers are capable of summoning during moments of communion. Advertisement Advertisement Now comes that special time of Adult Christmas, where its just you and your mom in the kitchen, and she tells you the saddest thing youve ever heard Jeff Loveness (@JeffLoveness) December 27, 2019 Your mom doesnt want to burden you with all the pent-up trauma and sacrifice. But sometimes it all comes out at once, said Loveness when I reached out for an interview. Youre washing dishes with her, and she gives you a Faulkner short story in about a sentence. This is a direct contrast to the relationship many of us have with our fathers, who are certainly capable of bottomless sadness, but usually in a way thats more circuitous and cryptographic. Dad never comes out and says exactly what is going on. You have to put the puzzle pieces together with Dad, Loveness added. (His point makes me recall how my own father is often moved to tears when remembering the Lincoln assassination.) Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Indeed, the Doom Mom trauma dump can be genuinely unsettling and paradigm-shiftingan inversion of long-standing family dynamics. Eden Woolever, an old high school friend of mine who is 30 and works at a bakery in Austin, Texas, mentioned an incident in which she was Christmas shopping at Target, while her mother informed her that a cousin of hers had witnessed his best friends suicide. (It felt like something I should have never heard, said Woolever.) But confessions like these at least gesture toward a genuine emotional purging, or a desire to share an inner weight. More often, Doom Moms tend to hot-potato bafflingly irrelevant catastrophes into our laps, briefly derailing the conversation with a floating sense of unaimed grief. A colleague of mine, who prefers to remain anonymous out of respect for her mother, knows this feeling well. On vacation, my mom announced to the room that Sarah has just gotten out of surgery. I asked, Who is Sarah? she told me. Well, as we learned, Sarah is a college friend who has cancer and was also hit by a car in Washington, D.C., a few years ago. Advertisement Advertisement Robin Dickerhoof, a Slate copy editor, mentioned that as she delves deeper into motherhood, she has found that the Doom Mom operating system seems to have been installed in her brain against her will. I recently found myself telling my family, for no good reason, about those parents who got murdered while hiking in the South, said Dickerhoof. That was the first time I wondered what on earth I was thinking. There wasnt anything they could have done differently. It was a random attack. We dont live anywhere near there. I dont knowwhy say it? Theres nothing to learn from it. Its a horrible tragedy. Advertisement Carla Johnson, the mother of Slate senior editor Isabelle Kohn, has a slightly different set of Doom Mom instincts. Rather than keeping her daughter informed of the worlds misery, Johnson is constantly warding Kohn against the tangible uncertainties of human existenceearthquakes, mostly, but also subpar water quality and cellphone radiation. (Kohn says that her mother has loaded her up with batteries, headlamps, water filters, and first aid kits. These items havent been deployed for emergency use just yet, but they do make for great camping supplies.) Advertisement Parents are always going to think that they are smarter than their kids, Johnson said. You can call it arrogance, but I would call it natural intelligence. And that might be the weirdest feeling, when youre 35 and your mom is reminding you to have flashlights. But you just always figure that your kids arent watching out for themselves. It is hard to know exactly where the Doom Mom instinct comes from, and theres likely not a singular psychological theory at play. But Vicki Botnick, a therapist who specializes in family dynamics, puts forth the most concrete reasoning: Our mothers are getting older, and as such, they are reappraising their relationship with their children in the netherworld of empty nesting. They are no longer our caregivers, nor do we fit neatly in the social categories of peers, friends, or colleagues. At the same time, the instinct to parent rarely leaves once a child grows up, becomes autonomous, and even starts a family of their own. Moms will always be moms. But where does that leave them? Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Its a really complicated period of time, said Botnick. You are the most important person to your moms life. And shes confused about how she stays relevant, interesting, and loved in this phase of life where you dont need her in the way that you used to. Thats always going to be the undercurrent in every conversation you have with them. Working from that frameworkthat all communication, and the problems that accompany it, ultimately comes down to the desire for connectionit begins to seem a little more clear how the specter of corporeal annihilation has become so central to our motherly interactions. McLain, for instance, recalls that she and her mom have always bonded over gossip, and, in its own twisted way, the news that the woman who once cut her hair has perished does fit the bill. This is also true for Floyd, who tells me that when her mom begins to spiral off into miscellaneous tragedies, the topics themselves are rarely personal. Its usually stuff she saw on social media or stories from friends of friends, she said. Floyd speculates that, now that the two of them dont share the same roof, when do they jump on the phone and update each other on recent events, her mom naturally gravitates toward the latest cataclysms. If nothing else, its something to talk about. Advertisement Advertisement Botnick believes that what Floyd is describing might be generationala holdover from their own parents expressions of familiarity. Your parents grew up without social media, she said. The way they kept each other abreast of what was happening in our lives was by telling each other the highlights of what was going on. Older folks on Facebook post about the big stuff, and the bad stuff. There could be something going on where that, now that youre not a little kid, they want to treat you as an equal, and this is how they know how to treat you like an equal. Advertisement Related From Slate A Raucous New Sport Has Become Strangely Popular. A Group of Thirsty Women Is to Blame. Read More Dickerhoof relates to this sentiment. Everyone is in their own algorithm bubble, and sometimes I am just trying to share a current event with my kids, she said. Sometimes you misjudge, thoughtheres teaching the importance of situational awareness, and then theres just scaring them. Advertisement All that is likely true, but personally speaking, when my mom walks me through a gallery of trauma, I detect some deeper emotions at play. Im separated from my family by multiple time zones, and my mother is currently enmeshed in a brutal divorce. When we catch up, the dead kittens may offer a way to bypass small talk entirely and deliver us both to a form of intimacy. At 66 years old, my mom is, understandably, singularly focused on the indisputable fact that life is precious and nothing is guaranteed; this awareness lingers in the depths of our consciousness until it is provoked into a glittering starburst, shifting all priorities with seismic force. It might be a little clumsy, but I understand where shes coming from. Advertisement Advertisement I tell my kids when something terrible happens, because you just never know, said Pam Klinect, the mother of a friend I had in high school who notably kept her kids up to date on all flavors of tragedy. (Currently, she is advocating for her two sons to come over to her house to do a test run of all the paperwork that will be necessary to complete in the event of her death.) You can just be going along, everything is wonderful, and bam! Out of left field, she continued. It pops out of nowhere. Advertisement And, really, thats the elephant in the room. We struggle to follow our mothers down these random tales of anguish because, ultimately, our moms are talking about death. And that is a difficult conversation to have with people we love. Its the question I left Botnick with: How should we respond to our wonderful, hysterical Doom Moms, whoas difficult as it might be to think abouthave been burdened with a different relationship to mortality from the one we currently possess? How great would it be to say That sounds really scaryIm hearing that youre noticing these bad things happening in the world all the time? said Botnick. Ask her, What is it like for you right now? In other words, revel in the doom together. Who knows? It might keep you alive. The three-year-old Manolete took no backseat to his elders in the $27,778 fast-class conditioned pacing feature at Pocono Downs at Mohegan Pennsylvania on Saturday, Sept. 27, with the son of Cattlewash-Glancewithme taking both his second straight win at the northeast Pennsylvania oval and a new mark of 1:49.2. Trainer Bruce Saunders again tapped Brett Beckwith for the catch-drive behind Manolete, and Beckwith got the colt to the lead in the middle of the first turn before a :26.2 opener, then pushed brushing favourite Voukefalas (Jordan Stratton) a ways before surrendering the top to sit in the golden chair. The chalk posted middle numbers of :54 and 1:22, repelling any outside hopefuls, but the major danger lurked right behind. When Beckwith gave Manolete the green light, the sophomore responded strongly, winning by three-quarters of a length when seeming in more control than the margin might suggest. Congressional (Kevin Wallis) was third. Manolete now has earnings of $634,151 for M&L Of Delaware and M&M Harness Racing. He is nine-for-28 lifetime. The win price was $9.60. There were also a pair of races at the top two conditions for developing horses, each class with one race on each gait. The $24,306 pacing contest went to the five-year-old Huntsville-Under Your Spell gelding Gretzky The Great, who was claimed last week and promptly handled the switch to conditioned company, proceeding steadily to the lead, then digging down to withstand the late bid of favoured Makes Sense (Tyler Buter) by a half-length in 1:52. Gretzky The Great was driven by Matt Kakaley for the horses new connections, trainer Darren Taneyhill and owner P T Stable. In the $24,306 higher-level trot for horses on the improve, Daiquiri Hanover atoned for an error when looking in contention for a triumph in his previous start. He sat in the two-hole until headstretch and then went on to a 1:52.3 victory for driver Tyler Buter, trainer Tony Alagna, and owners Adam Hawthorne, Jade Hatfield and Itzak Madae. The four-year-old son of Bar Hopping-Dab Hanover has now won three of his last four starts. In the $21,528 trot for the up-and-comers, the altered Love You-Wind Stroll sophomore Beaujolais Breeze took advantage of sitting the pocket trip behind Craigieburn (Anthony Napolitano), then raced by that one at headstretch and strode to a 1:55.4 victory for driver Brett Beckwith, trainer Nifty Norman, and the ownership of Tom Vassiliou, Deo Volente Farms, Thomas Pontone and Enzed Racing Stable. In the $21,528 pacing event at this level, the three-year-old Cattlewash-Dancinwiththestarz gelding Tom Horn dictated the tempo, then withstood pocket-sitter Chief Bogo (Anthony Napolitano) to lower his lifetime mark to 1:50.1 for meet leaders driver Tyler Buter and trainer Ron Burke, and owners Burke Racing Stable, W. Donovan, David Miller and J&T Silva- Purnel & Libby. Buter had four winners on the card, two of them for Burke. Horsepeople with doubles were drivers Beckwith and George Napolitano Jr. and trainers Burke and Taneyhill. Tony Beltrami won a $13,889 race for the American Harness Drivers Club (AHDC) with the Mike Watson-trained trotter J S Hopscotch in 1:57.1. The AHDC made another charitable donation during the program, this time to the Standardbred Transition Alliance (STA), a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization focused on accreditation and inspection of programs that acquire, rehabilitate, train and re-home Standardbreds, as well as awarding grants to help support these organizations. AHDC President Anthony Verruso led the $2,778 cheque presentation with Pocono race secretary Rick Kane accepting the donation on behalf of the STA. We really enjoy supporting these great charities that help our industry, said Verruso. We just love the competition, and we cant do it without these horses. They all deserve the ability to find new homes and such once done racing, so were happy to assist on that. Were also incredibly appreciative of Rick Kane and Sam Beegle [PHHA President] for giving us space to race here at Pocono, as well as the crew down at Harrahs Philadelphia. Anywhere we go, well make sure we continue supporting great causes. Organizations like the STA are supported by the AHDC because the clubs participants race with amateur licenses, meaning that their five per cent cut of purse earnings goes to various charity organizations instead of to the driver. Racing at Pocono continues on Monday and Tuesday, with first post each day 1 p.m. (With files from PHHA/Pocono & AHDC) On a card that featured three stakes events, there were twice as many storylines after a lovely afternoon of harness racing at The Loop on Saturday, Sept. 27. Let's start with the stakes races. Van Goghing Fast ($4.20; pictured above) delivered as the public choice in the $12,968 MSSBA Golden Boy Stakes Final for three-year-old male pacers. After sitting the pocket through fractions of :29.3 and :59.3, Van Goghing Fast and driver Marc Fillion collared pacesetter Crimsons Case (Cory Manning) through a 1:30.4 third station and then sprinted away to win by nearly three lengths in 2:02.3. Austins Bud (Michel Rey) closed for second ahead of Crimsons Case. Fillion bred, owns and trains Van Goghing Fast, a three-year-old gelded son of Trust The Artist - Soft And Dry with a 6-5-2 summary from 19 starts this year and $34,616 in earnings. Pipers Luna ($2.10) made every call a winning one in the $11,954 MSSBA Silk Lace Final for three-year-old pacing fillies, towing driver Dean Rey to a four-length tally in 2:01.3 over Smokinintheboysroom (Fillion) and Stefs Inheritance (Paula Mason). A daughter of Im The Pied Piper - Hammers Rainbow, Pipers Luna now boasts a 7-1-0 record from eight career appearances and $38,970 in earnings for owner Vince Sotheran and co-owner, trainer and breeder Lorraine Rey. Just two two-year-olds lined up in the $10,200 Juvenile Stakes Final, with Libbys Delight ($4.30) and Kirk Rogers besting Justcruiseonbye (Manning) by more than five lengths with the mile timed in 2:07. That win is the maiden-breaker for Libbys Delight, a daughter of Track Master D - Minettas Liberty owned and trainer by Virden's Aurel Vodon. From stakes to sets of wins. Two trainers tripled on the Saturday 10-dash card. Clayton Braybrook picked up the first three-pack of the day thanks to Irish Hawk (2:07.4; $2.80) in the second race, Tuff As Buff (2:00.4; $5.80) in the seventh and Tami Blue the 11-1 upsetter in the $6,500 Open Pace, winning by 3-1/2 lengths over stablemate Appoggiatura (Manning) and favoured Nonversation (Richard Remillard) in a time of 2:00.1. Braybrook, who also drove all three of his winners, holds the papers on Tami Blue, an 11-year-old daughter of Blue Burner - Jomars Tami with 18 career wins and $85,938. The mare returned $25.10 to win. There is one trainer at The Loop this year with more wins than Braybrook and his 11 tallies. That's 17-time winner Sherri Mason, who matched Braybrook's output with a triple of her own. She started her triple in the fourth race with Acquired Taste (2:00.4; $8.60) and ended her triple with Miss Baby (2:03.3; $10.90) in the ninth. Husband Darryl Mason engineered both of those scores. The win in the middle meant more to Team Mason as Somepeopleneedtold (2:02.1; $6.60) prevailed over stablemate Hurry Home by three parts of length for driver Aaron Mason son of Darryl and Sherri for his first career driving victory. Mason, 22, picked up his first win in just his sixth career start. Handle on the day was $34,302, a single-day high for the Manitoba oval. For the full results from the Saturday card of harness racing in Winnipeg, click the following link: Saturday Results - The Loop. (Standardbred Canada) Wind Blown grabbed all the glory in a lightning-fast Preferred Pace on a lively Saturday, Sept. 27 card at Red Shores Racetrack & Casino at the Charlottetown Driving Park. Wind Blown ($5.20) was all business in the $5,000 feature, going right down the road through fractions of :27.3, :55 and 1:23.4 to win in 1:52.1 for trainer Phil Sizer and driver Paul Langille. Nothing Bugs Me (Corey MacPherson) tracked from the pocket while T H Boomtown (Ken Murphy) completed the ticket. Wind Blown, a son of Mach Three-Wind Warning, scored his fourth straight victory since returning to Prince Edward Island from the Ontario circuit for owners Doug Polley Sr., and Doug Polley Jr., of Amherst, N.S. The eight-year-old has now earned $382,419 and won 37 times in 152 lifetime starts. Adam Merner authored a driving triple and a training double on the card. He started the roll with Doctor Grenfell ($6.80) from the Nicholas Oakes stable, parlaying a perfect stalking trip into a 1:55.2 new lifetime best in race eight. He came right back in race 10 with Imalookertoo ($6.50) in 1:57 and then capped the triple in race 11 when Maintenance Man ($9) swept to victory late in 1:54.4, both from his own barn. In the third race, Dusty Lane Zoro ($12.80) popped the pocket and sprinted home in 1:54.2 to give 73-year-old Don MacNeill the fastest win of his driving career. The victory was also a new lifetime mark for the four-year-old son of Pang Shui-Dusty Lane Zendaya for trainer Ron Gass and owner Alexis Gass, who bred the horse alongside Shelley Gass. Live harness racing continues on Tuesday at 6 p.m. at Red Shores Summerside. To view Saturday's harness racing results, click the following link: Saturday Results - Charlottetown Driving Park. (Red Shores) Twelfth Century Assyrian Inscription Found in Turkey Turkey -- A remarkable discovery in the Gerger district, located between Adyaman and Omid, attests to the centuries-old presence of Syriacs there. In the village of Oymakl, a stone bearing a Syriac inscription sheds new light on the region's layered history and its centuries-old Syriac presence. The inscription, carved on a rectangular stone, reads: "This house, this structure, was built in 1186." The stone had been repurposed as a doorstep in a home built some 30 to 40 years ago in Bayk hamlet, Oymakl village, before it was brought to wider attention. Adiyaman Museum Director Mehmet Alkan inspected the house, the engraved stone and the location. The text mentions that buildings and wells were built here. According to Alkan, previous studies show that there were a significant number of water wells and vineyards in the area, some of which go back to the fourth century AD. The found inscription probably dates back 1,000-1,600 years and provides information about the structures and architecture of the area. According to Syriac researcher and writer Muzaffer Iris the inscription reads, "This house, this structure, was built in 1186." In his book Vank Village: History, Nature, Life (2022) on the nearby village of Vank, Muzaffer Iris describes how the districts and cities of Gerger, Adiyaman, and Malatya had a significant Syriac and Armenian population in the twelfth century. In those days, the Syriac Orthodox Patriarchate was based in the Mor Barsauma Monastery near Malatya, which itself was a big archdiocese. Gerger hosted other religious sites like the monasteries of Mor Abbay, Mor Zakkay, and Mor Ephrem. In the 1900s, there were still Armenians and Syriacs living in villages in the Gerger district. However, after the 1970s they all migrated with only a few families remaining. With Vice President JD Vance calling Charlie Kirk a martyr for Christianity, and a Catholic cardinal calling him a modern-day St. Paul, some Kirk admirers suggest his assassination will galvanize throngs of people notably young conservatives to become more engaged in evangelical and Catholic churches. Evocations of Kirk-inspired religious fervor surfaced almost immediately after his death on Sept. 10, and continued to swell as much of Sunday's VIP-studded memorial service for the conservative activist resembled a massive megachurch service. There have been widespread reports of attendance surging at some evangelical churches. Charlie had big plans, but God had even bigger plans, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said at the service in Arizona. Charlie started a political movement but unleashed a spiritual revival. The Rev. Robert Jeffress, a longtime ally of President Donald Trump who leads a Southern Baptist megachurch in Dallas, said via email, The short-term impact of Kirks murder is astounding. The outpouring of emotion rivals that of September 11 and President Kennedys assassination, Jeffress added. Whether this genuine emotion translates into long-term change is yet to be determined, but I pray that it does. A sustained surge would run counter to trends. Political scientist Ryan Burge of Washington University in St. Louis, a leading researcher into religious trends and a pastor, said recent history shows no examples of an enduring religious revival after a civic trauma. Attendance only briefly spiked after the 9/11 attacks before settling back into typical levels, and neither the pandemic nor its aftermath saw any long-term increases as a whole. For there to be a noticeable impact on church attendance, this would require a massive shift in behavior of millions of Americans, Burge said. In a country of 340 million people, even a 5% increase would mean 17 million more people going to church on a weekly basis. Even if a long-term upswing occurred, wed need at least 18 months of data to demonstrate a lasting effect, Burge said. Some individuals and churches may indeed undergo spiritual revivals, but the plural of anecdote is not data, he added. Whether it's a blip or not, conservative Christian congregations say they are are seeing new faces among their ranks. Gina Gleason, director of the political engagement team at Calvary Chapel Chino Hills, said she is already seeing more people coming back to church in the wake of Kirk's death and expects the wave of engagement to grow. The Southern California megachurchs pastor, Jack Hibbs, was a friend of Kirks and a well-known Trump supporter. Kirk has spoken at Calvary Chapel at least 10 times and each time, thousands attended, packing the sanctuary as well as overflow rooms, Gleason said. I think were going to see an increase particularly in youth engagement because they listened to Charlie, Gleason said. He talked about politics and issues, but at the heart of his message was the Gospel, the truth about eternal salvation in Jesus Christ. The possibility of a revival was conveyed in a widely circulated montage that appeared on The Charlie Kirk Show on Sept. 17, showing several TikTok users saying they went to church for the first time in years after the assassination. In it, one man said he bought a suit to go to church and will try to be a better father, husband and leader for my family. A woman says she and her husband returned to church after 20 years and wants their three boys to grow as strong in their convictions as Charlie Kirk was. That was the message stressed by Andrew Kolvet, executive producer of The Charlie Kirk Show, in an interview with Fox News after Kirk's death. If you want to honor Charlie ... go back to church. Open your Bible; pray. Ask God to lead you. Thats what he wanted, Kolvet said. The founder of Communio, an evangelism ministry working with nearly 400 U.S. churches on marriage programs, said he had received reports of increased worship attendance at evangelical and Catholic services in Colorado, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Texas and elsewhere since Kirk's death. Pastors need to see this as an authentic move of the Holy Spirit, said J.P. De Gance said. The Holy Spirits moving in the hearts and minds of men and women, causing them to want to seek something and theyre showing back up. De Gance encouraged Christians to make a special effort to introduce themselves to new faces at church or those whove returned after a long lapse. Building trust is key. Once someone knows that you care, at that point, theyre going to care about what you know, he said. Though Kirk identified as a Protestant evangelical, his admirers included prominent Catholic clergy. This guy is a modern day St. Paul, said Cardinal Timothy Dolan, the archbishop of New York, on Fox & Friends. He was a missionary, hes an evangelist, hes a hero. Hes one I think that knows what Jesus meant when he said, The truth will set you free. Dolan's comment was criticized by some left-of-center Catholics. Any reflection on the legacy of Kirk cannot gloss over the pain and suffering that Kirk inflicted on innumerable people through his harsh, divisive and combative rhetoric, wrote John Grosso, digital editor for The National Catholic Reporter. David Gibson of the Center on Religion and Culture at Fordham University, a Catholic school in New York, noted that some people suggest that the response to Kirk's death could presage a religious revival in the U.S akin to one of the previous Great Awakenings that have periodically stirred the national soul. Past and current data show that revival is not really happening, and if there is any uptick it likely will not last, Gibson added in an email. HA NOI In a recent article, To Lam, General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Viet Nam, underscores the steadfast loyalty of the Peoples Public Security Force alongside its crucial role in safeguarding national security and helping achieve the targets set by the 13th National Party Congress. The Vietnam News Agency (VNA) respectfully introduces a translation of the article. THE PEOPLE'S PUBLIC SECURITY FORCE FOR THE PARTY, FOR THE PEOPLE To Lam, General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Viet Nam The tenure of the 7th Congress of the Central Public Security Party Organisation (20202025) was a successful term, marking many milestones in the 80-year history of the establishment, combat, growth and development of the Peoples Public Security Force. Over the past five years, the world and regional situation have seen rapid, widespread and complicated developments, with many issues beyond forecast and unprecedented. Domestically, many difficulties and challenges ranging from natural disasters and epidemics to supply chain disruptions, global trade competition and tax policies have considerably affected socio-economic development. However, with strong will, under the wise and correct leadership of the Party Central Committee, the Politburo and unanimous public support, we focused on accelerating, breaking through and continuing to resolutely and decisively carry out the reform process typically the revolution in arranging and streamlining the organisational apparatus of the political system; adopting the two-tier local administration model; and restructuring the socio-economic development space. As a result, we have fundamentally settled the difficulties and obstacles to complete and exceed the targets and objectives set by the 13th National Party Congress, including the important and noteworthy contributions of the Peoples Public Security Force. The Central Public Security Party Committee and the entire Peoples Public Security Force have been exemplary, taking the lead in implementing the Resolution of the 13th National Party Congress. In particular, the Central Public Security Party Committee is considered the 'leading flag' in realising the Party Central Committees Resolution 18 on 'continuing to innovate and reorganise the apparatus of the political system to be streamlined, effective and efficient.' The strategic advisory function to the Party and State on political security and social order and safety has been raised to a new level. The security, territorial sovereignty and political position of the country have been firmly protected, creating positive changes in social order and safety, a turning point in security governance and management, and a peaceful, secure, safe and stable environment and space for people across the country. The Public Security Party Organisation has led the basic completion of the goal of building a Peoples Public Security Force that is 'truly clean, strong, disciplined, elite, modern, meeting the requirements and tasks in the new situation' set forth in the Politburos Resolution No. 12 dated March 16, 2022. Digital transformation, natural disaster recovery and the elimination of temporary and dilapidated houses are also bright spots that the Peoples Public Security Force has achieved during the term of the 7th Congress of the Central Public Security Party Organisation. The above results are not only vivid proof of the absolute loyalty of the Peoples Public Security Force to the Party, the Fatherland and the people, but also provide practice, create foundation, motivation and inspire implementation for the entire political system. Closely following and effectively implementing the Partys policies and guidelines on protecting national security, the Peoples Public Security Force has upheld its leading and core role in keeping the country 'warm inside and peaceful outside,' affirming Viet Nams position in the group of the most peaceful and safest countries in the world, attracting international friends and partners to befriend and do business with Viet Nam. At the same time, the Public Security Force has always promptly grasped emerging trends and issues in international relations, as well as experience, technology and advanced knowledge of mankind to help the Party formulate appropriate policies for the goal of national construction and development. Under the leadership of the Party, the Public Security Force has both excellently fulfilled its role as the frontline force in the prevention and control of the COVID-19 pandemic while at the same time achieving the feat of building the national population database, opening up a new chapter in the governance of security and order in a modern direction, maximising the reform of administrative procedures and creating the greatest possible convenience for the people and enterprises. Crimes have been continuously curbed and reduced year by year; drug-free communes, exemplary wards and model localities in terms of security and order across our country are increasing; traffic safety and fire safety assurance have seen many innovations, both fostering development and consolidating a society of order, discipline, safety and soundness, enabling people to live happier lives with human security being strengthened and ensured. International cooperation on security and order, together with international cooperation on national defence, has become a pillar in Viet Nams relations with many countries. Active participation in the UN peacekeeping forces and in international rescue and relief operations, along with the political trust gained from the results of cooperation on security and order, have created conditions to expand and develop cooperation in many other fields, contributing to making 'more friends, fewer foes,' and consolidating Viet Nams relations with other countries in an increasingly profound, comprehensive and effective manner. The image of officers and soldiers of the Peoples Public Security Force, as well as forces participating in the protection of security and order at the grassroots level, always present in crucial, difficult and dangerous places, sacrificing themselves to protect the lives and property of the people at all times and in all places, with the spirit of 'when the people need and are in difficulty, there is the public security force,' affirms the effectiveness of studying and following the thought, morality and lifestyle of President Ho Chi Minh and the six teachings of Uncle Ho to the Peoples Public Security Force. It is necessary to continue to tighten the bonds of solidarity and the flesh-and-blood ties between the Peoples Public Security Force and the people, building the peoples security posture and the peoples security foundation linked with the all-people national defence posture and the all-people national defence foundation on the basis of a solid 'posture of the peoples hearts,' strengthening the peoples trust in the Party, the State and the socialist regime. After a term with many remarkable hallmarks, miraculous results, turning points and innovative mindset, the Central Public Security Party Organisation has led the entire Peoples Public Security Force to 'outperform themselves' for the Party and for the people, making great strides of growth and maturity, firmly affirming the role of the 'sharp sword' and the 'steel shield' protecting the Party, protecting the people and protecting the socialist regime, shining with the qualities of the revolutionary Public Security Force. The tenure of the 8th Congress of the Peoples Public Security Party Organisation for the period 20252030 is the time when the entire country steps into a new era, the era of prosperous, strong development with very fundamental opportunities and advantages but also facing many difficulties and challenges. There have been new developments in the world and regional situation; issues of traditional and non-traditional security with a series of epochal problems directly impacting, in many aspects, the national construction and development process, in which difficulties and challenges will continue to increase. Hostile and reactionary forces are seeking every way to exploit loopholes and shortcomings in the early stage of operating the two-tier local administration model and in the implementation of the Partys resolutions in recent times, to sabotage, distort, cause division, internal disunity and even attempt every means to undermine the success of the 14th National Party Congress. Our Party shoulders the historic responsibility of leading the entire Party, people and armed forces to successfully implement the two centenary strategic goals under the Partys leadership and, since the founding of the nation, by the mid-21st century, our country will become a developed, high-income nation. The highest and consistent goal at present is 'peace, stability, rapid, sustainable development and the improvement of all aspects of the peoples lives,' so that the people truly live in IndependenceFreedomHappiness. The Peoples Public Security Force must be one of the core forces to realise these goals. The requirements and tasks of building and defending the Fatherland in the new revolutionary period pose a very glorious responsibility for the Peoples Public Security Force. In any circumstances, the Peoples Public Security Force must absolutely remain loyal to the Party, the Fatherland and the people; maintain flesh-and-blood ties with the people; thoroughly grasp the viewpoint 'the people are the root,' the people are the centre, the subject in all guidelines, policies and work on security and order; always be imbued with and implement the motto 'The Peoples Public Security Force forget themselves for the country, serve the people.' They must continue to take the lead in movements of gratitude and repayment, building schools and providing medical examination and treatment to support the people, especially the poor and ethnic minorities in remote and mountainous areas. The highest goal of security and order work in the coming period is to strongly renew mindset and decisively enhance task performance. That is not only to maintain a peaceful and stable environment, safeguard security and order and build a disciplined, orderly, safe and healthy society, but through security and order assurance work it must also contribute significantly to creating, promoting, seizing opportunities and creating all favourable conditions for the successful implementation of the Partys strategic goals; protecting security and order must create the foundation for the success of sustainable and high-quality development. It is essential to proactively grasp and accurately assess the situation, skillfully combining tradition with modern approaches, while enhancing the protection of the Party, the socialist regime and the people, absolutely avoiding any passivity or surprise. Focus must be placed on identifying and firmly safeguarding security in emerging domains and spaces such as national digital sovereignty, border-proximate economic security, cybersecurity, information security and data safety during digital transformation. The force must maintain close coordination with the Viet Nam Peoples Army, the diplomatic sector, as well as departments, sectors and localities to ensure a peaceful and stable environment under all circumstances. Sustained efforts must be made to reduce crime, build communes and wards free from crime and drugs and lay a foundation for developing models of socialist administrative units; to build an orderly, disciplined, safe and healthy society; strengthening the spirit of 'rule of law' and awareness of law observance among the people; and enhancing human security for the peaceful and happy life of the people. International cooperation on security and order should be expanded, proactively creating security belts and effectively addressing threats to national security and interests at an early stage, from afar and beyond national borders. A seamless security posture must be established both domestically and internationally. The Peoples Public Security Force must increase its contributions to maintaining international peace and security and ensuring the interests of the nation and legitimate benefits of the people. A focus must also be placed on building a clean, strong, comprehensive, exemplary and pioneering Central Public Security Party Organisation and strengthening Party organisations within the Peoples Public Security Force, especially grassroots organisations with high combat capacity. The Peoples Public Security Force must continue to develop into a revolutionary, regular, elite and modernised force. Breakthroughs should be made in developing a self-reliant, resilient, dual-use and modern security industry, thereby creating a foundation for strengthening security and order capacities to meet mission requirements while actively contributing to the countrys socio-economic development. Above all, the Central Public Security Party Organisation and the entire Peoples Public Security Force must continue to affirm their exemplary and pioneering role in implementing the 14th National Party Congresss Resolution and other strategic resolutions of the Party, through concrete results and products, with the spirit of daring to think, daring to act, daring to innovate and daring to make breakthroughs for the common cause. The Party, the State and the people place their absolute trust in the Peoples Public Security Force. Building on the 80-year tradition of construction, combat and growth, and with significant achievements in the 20202025 term, the Central Public Security Party Organisation and the entire Peoples Public Security Force will certainly record new victories and accomplishments, continue creating remarkable milestones and breakthroughs in all areas of work and effectively realise the theme of the 8th Congress of the Central Public Security Party Organisation: 'Following Uncle Hos teachings Renewing mindset Enhancing knowledge Modern regularisation For the Party, for the People.' VNA/VNS HA NOI Chairman of the State Duma of the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation Vyacheslav Volodin arrived in Ha Noi on Sunday afternoon, beginning an official visit to Viet Nam and co-chairing the 4th meeting of the Inter-Parliamentary Cooperation Committee between the two countries parliaments. The two-day visit is made at the invitation of Viet Nams National Assembly Chairman Tran Thanh Man. Welcoming the Russian delegation at Noi Bai International Airport were Vice Chairman of the National Assembly Vu Hong Thanh, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs ang Hoang Giang, National Assembly deputy Pham Phu Binh, member of the Committee for National Defence, Security and External Relations, and Russian Ambassador to Viet Nam Gennady Bezdetko. Accompanying Chairman Volodin on his visit are First Deputy Chairman of the State Duma Ivan Ivanovich Melnikov; Deputy Chairman Alexander Mikhailovich Babakov; leader of the 'New People' parliamentary faction Alexey Gennadievich Nechayev; Chairman of the Committee on Industry and Trade Vladimir Vladimirovich Gutenev; Chairman of the Committee on Science and Higher Education Sergey Vladimirovich Kabyshev; Chairwoman of the Committee on Culture Olga Mikhailovna Kazakova; Chairman of the Committee on Security and Anti-Corruption Vasily Ivanovich Piskarev; Chairman of the Committee on Tourism and Tourism Infrastructure Development Sangadzhi Andreevich Tarbaev; Chairman of the Committee on Economic Policy Maxim Anatolievich Topilin; and Chairman of the Committee on Energy Nikolay Grigorievich Shulginov. Born in 1964, Volodin holds doctoral degrees in both engineering and law. His career has spanned several key political and administrative posts, including Deputy Chairman of Saratov City Council (19921994); Deputy Chairman of the Saratov Regional Duma (19941996); Deputy Chairman of the State Duma in the 4th and 5th convocations (20032010); Chief of Staff of the Russian Government and Deputy Prime Minister (20102011); and First Deputy Chief of Staff of the Presidential Administration of Russia (20112016). Since October 2016, he has served as Chairman of the State Duma and is a standing member of the Security Council of the Russian Federation. The visit aims to promote the implementation of major directions agreed upon by the top leaders of both countries during President Vladimir Putins state visit to Viet Nam in June 2024 and General Secretary To Lams official visit to Russia in May 2025. As the supreme legislative bodies, the Vietnamese National Assembly and the Russian State Duma play a crucial role in creating the legal framework for bilateral cooperation and overseeing the implementation of high-level agreements. During the visit, Chairman Volodin and Chairman Tran Thanh Man will co-chair the 4th meeting of the Viet NamRussia Inter-Parliamentary Cooperation Committee. This is the highest-level and first such inter-parliamentary cooperation mechanism established between the Vietnamese legislature and a foreign parliament. The two sides are expected to exchange legislative experience, discuss parliamentary oversight in implementing cooperation and provide orientations for the two governments in addressing specific challenges in bilateral ties. They will also seek new drivers of growth and explore untapped potential in key areas such as science and technology and education and training, with the goal of refreshing relations and elevating cooperation to new heights. This marks the fourth meeting of the Committee. Russian Ambassador Gennady Bezdetko highlighted the importance of the trip in further consolidating the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two countries. Ambassador Bezdetko said the visit continues a series of high-level exchanges this year, following Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustins trip to Viet Nam in January, General Secretary To Lams official visit to Russia in May and recent meetings between President Vladimir Putin and Viet Nams top leaders on the sidelines of multilateral events in China. He also noted that senior Russian officials, including ministers and presidential aides, had travelled to Ha Noi throughout the year, underlining the dynamic nature of bilateral dialogue. The establishment of a regular, trusted political dialogue at all levels, including the highest, plays a crucial role in ensuring the uninterrupted development of the RussiaViet Nam Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, the Ambassador stressed. One of the main objectives of Chairman Volodins visit is to ensure parliamentary oversight of agreements already reached in areas ranging from trade and energy to science, education, culture and humanitarian exchange. It is difficult to overestimate the importance of such oversight by the legislatures of our two countries, the diplomat said. The trip also takes place at a symbolic time, as Russia and Viet Nam mark 75 years of diplomatic relations alongside the 80th anniversaries of both Russias Victory in the Great Patriotic War and Viet Nams National Day. We attach great importance to parliamentary collaboration both bilaterally and in multilateral mechanisms, Ambassador Bezdetko said. This cooperation is built on shared approaches to global challenges and contributes to strengthening the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership for the prosperity of both nations and for peace and stability in the region and the world. VNS HA NOI National Assembly (NA) Chairman Tran Thanh Man on Sunday attended the inauguration of a memorial site dedicated to the late Chairman of the NA Standing Committee Bui Bang oan in Ha Noi's Ung Thien Commune, on the occasion of his 136th birth anniversary (September 19). The event was also one of the practical activities to celebrate the 80th anniversary of the first general election to elect the NA on January 6, 1946. In his speech, NA Chairman Man said that oan, together with the first legislature and President Ho Chi Minh, drafted the 1946 Constitution, a model document of democracy and human rights. He called on Ha Noi's authorities and the communal Peoples Committee to ensure the memorial sites proper management, operation, maintenance and protection to maintain its solemnity and endurance. Bui Bang oan (18891955) was a great personality and a patriotic intellectual in Viet Nam's history, embodying the transformation of Vietnamese scholars in the face of national destiny. Initially a minister in the royal court, oan answered the call of the August Revolution, taking on roles as Head of the Governments Special Inspectorate and a deputy in the first NA, which laid the groundwork for the Democratic Republic of Viet Nam. As Chairman of the NA Standing Committee, he collaborated closely with President Ho Chi Minh and the Government to shape the countrys first Constitution and legal system. What endures most vividly in oan's legacy is his unwavering sense of justice, respect for the rule of law, and absolute integrity. He consistently upheld the spirit of great national unity, rallied people during the resistance war, and stood by the Government in what was then an all-people, all-out struggle. At pivotal moments, he personally visited people and soldiers, penning letters that stirred their resolve, fueling a collective dream of independence, freedom, and national reunification. VNA/VNS HA NOI Talks in Ha Noi between Viet Nams National Assembly (NA) Chairman Tran Thanh Man and Russian State Duma Chairman Vyacheslav Volodin gave fresh momentum to 75 years of Viet NamRussia relations. Chairman Man welcomed Volodin back to Viet Nam and recalled his positive impressions from his official visit to Russia in September 2024. He said the Russian leaders visit was an important diplomatic activity, consolidating close and reliable ties between the two countries in a milestone anniversary year. Reaffirming Viet Nams consistent policy of valuing its traditional friendship and comprehensive strategic partnership with Russia, Man highlighted recent positive developments across all areas of cooperation. He proposed deeper collaboration between the State Duma and the Vietnamese NA, including sharing experience in building a 'smart parliament,' improving legal frameworks and supporting agencies in removing barriers to trade, investment, energy, science and technology, education, culture and people-to-people exchanges. Volodin thanked Man, Vietnamese leaders and people for their warm reception, congratulated Viet Nam on its socio-economic achievements and expressed confidence in the countrys continued success under the leadership of the Communist Party. He said the State Duma strongly supported strengthening comprehensive cooperation with Viet Nam and would be ready to expand mechanisms and explore new areas of partnership. Both leaders underlined the importance of the Inter-Parliamentary Cooperation Committee in overseeing and supporting the implementation of high-level agreements, particularly those set out in the Joint Declaration on the Viet NamRussia comprehensive strategic partnership adopted during President Vladimir Putins State visit to Ha Noi and Party General Secretary To Lams visit to Moscow. They agreed to further promote cooperation in trade and investment, including effective implementation of the Viet NamEurasian Economic Union Free Trade Agreement. They welcomed progress in energy and oil and gas cooperation and discussed prospects for cooperation on nuclear power projects in Viet Nam. Chairman Tran thanked the State Duma for promptly ratifying agreements on oil and gas exploration and exploitation signed during General Secretary To Lams visit to Russia. The two sides also agreed to deepen cooperation in education and culture, including training in fields where Russia has strengths and Viet Nam has demand, as well as promoting the teaching of Vietnamese in Russia and Russian in Viet Nam. On the parliamentary channel, they committed to expanding exchanges between committees and friendship groups, enhancing information sharing and legislative experience and providing legal support to facilitate bilateral cooperation in all fields. Chairman Tran also proposed creating favourable conditions for the Vietnamese community in Russia and the Russian community in Viet Nam to live, study and conduct business. 4th Inter-Parliamentary Committee session Later the same day, the two countries top legislators co-chaired the 4th meeting of the Viet NamRussia Inter-Parliamentary Cooperation Committee. Opening the session, the two leaders emphasised that the meeting took place as Viet Nam and Russia celebrated the 75th anniversary of diplomatic ties with many significant activities. They agreed that the inter-parliamentary mechanism had proven effective in perfecting the legal framework and promoting cooperation in key areas, reflecting the determination of both legislatures to strengthen the comprehensive strategic partnership. The meeting reviewed cooperation outcomes since the 3rd session in Moscow in September 2024 and discussed five main topics: legislative support for economic and trade relations; improving the business and investment environment; legislation and oversight to promote energy cooperation; the role of legislatures in upholding multilateralism, the United Nations Charter and international law; and strengthening humanitarian cooperation including education, culture and tourism. The session took place in a spirit of trust and constructive dialogue. Lawmakers from both sides shared experiences in institution-building and proposed solutions to expand bilateral cooperation. At the end of the meeting, both sides adopted a Joint Communique outlining future inter-parliamentary cooperation directions in line with the bilateral relationship and the new international context. The 5th session of the Committee will be held in Russia in 2026. VNS HA NOI Chairman of the State Duma of the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation Vyacheslav Volodin visited the Viet NamRussia Tropical Centre in Ha Noi on Sunday evening as part his two-day official visit to Viet Nam. On behalf of leaders of the Ministry of National Defence, Sen. Lt. Gen. Hoang Xuan Chien, Chairman of the Vietnamese Subcommittee and Co-chairman of the Intergovernmental Coordination Committee on the Viet NamRussia Tropical Centre, expressed his pleasure at welcoming Chairman Volodin and a high-ranking delegation of the Russian Federation to visit the Viet NamRussia Tropical Centre, emphasising that the visit demonstrates the special interest of the State Duma in the activities of the centre. Chien said that in September 2025, he and Russian Deputy Defence Minister Alexander Fomin co-chaired the 8th Defence Strategy Dialogue, while Nikolai Patrushev, Aide to the President of Russia and Chairman of the Maritime Board of Russia, also visited the Viet NamRussia Tropical Centre. At the meetings, the two sides discussed many issues of defence cooperation between the two countries, including cooperation within the framework of the Viet NamRussia Tropical Centre. The Viet NamRussia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership has been increasingly deepened, becoming more substantial and effective in all fields, clearly demonstrated through high-level visits by the two countries' leaders, notably the visits to Viet Nam by Russian President Vladimir Putin in June 2024 and by Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin in January 2025, and the visit and attendance at the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War in Russia by Party General Secretary To Lam in May 2025. Within the framework of the Vietnamese Party chiefs visit, the two sides issued a Joint Statement on the major orientations of the Viet NamRussia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in the new cooperation period, emphasising that "the Viet NamRussia Tropical Centre is one of the bright spots of effective cooperation, serving the socio-economic development tasks of the two countries". In the overall traditional friendship, the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two countries has been concretised by the two governments, ministries and sectors through specific actions. Russia has sponsored the Viet NamRussia Tropical Centre with two mobile testing vehicles to help improve the capacity of research, monitoring infectious diseases and responding to epidemic emergencies in Viet Nam. Russia has also sponsored many modern equipments, helping to improve the scientific and technological potential of the Viet NamRussia Tropical Centre, including the marine research vessel "Professor Gagarinsky" to help the centre carry out in-depth research on ecology and biodiversity in deep sea and offshore areas. In addition, the two sides are also promoting technology transfer activities, carrying out procedures to establish the Centre for Tropicalization, technical equipment and technology adaptation. These are breakthrough steps to promote the application and transfer of technology within the framework of the Viet NamRussia Tropical Centre. Chien affirmed that the Vietnamese Ministry of National Defence highly appreciates the results achieved as well as the development potential and supports the expansion of cooperation between Viet Nam and Russia within the framework of the centre. On this occasion, the Vietnamese Ministry of National Defence requested the Chairman of the State Duma to continue to pay attention to and direct the increase of Russian staff working regularly at the centre, and to continue investing in facilities so that the centre can meet the requirements of tasks and development directions in the new period. Earlier, in the afternoon of the same day, Chairman of the State Duma Vyacheslav Volodin visited the Viet Nam Military History Museum in Ha Noi. VNA/VNS QUANG NINH A mining accident at Duong Huy Coal Company in the northeastern province of Quang Ninh on Sunday resulted in three fatalities and two injuries, local authorities confirmed. At around 10:35am, a methane gas incident occurred inside an underground tunnel at the companys mine site, trapping five workers from the No.3 Tunnel Construction Workshop under the Mine Construction Company a contractor for Duong Huy Coal. Upon receiving reports, Quang Ninh Party Secretary Vu ai Thang and Provincial Peoples Committee Chairman Bui Van Khang directed immediate rescue efforts. Deputy Chairman of the municipal People's Committee Nguyen Van Cong led a provincial working group to the site alongside executives of Viet Nam National Coal and Mineral Industries Group (Vinacomin) to oversee the operation. By 12:30am, rescue teams had managed to bring out two workers alive and rushed them to Quang Ninh General Hospital, where their condition was later stabilised. At 1:30pm, the remaining three workers were found but had succumbed to the incident. The victims were identified as Nguyen Van uc (born 1983, from Hai Phong City), Ha Van Oai (born 1988, from Lai Chau Province), and Trang A Chung (born 2002, from Cao Bang Province). Later in the afternoon, Chairman Khang visited the hospital to express condolences and encouragement to the injured workers. Provincial authorities instructed the provincial health department, Vinacomin, and Mong Duong Ward Peoples Committee to provide assistance to the affected families. Immediate financial support of VN25 million (about US$950) per deceased worker has been allocated. Mine Construction Company has given VN500 million for each of the deceased victim's family. The cause of the incident is under investigation by relevant agencies. VNS Thanh Nga With its stunning natural landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and rich cultural heritage, Thanh Hoa Province is establishing itself as a promising destination for green tourism development. This province is distinguished by diverse terrain, which includes mountains and midlands, plains and coastal areas. It boasts numerous renowned landscapes with significant historical and cultural value, making it an ideal spot for green tourism. The province has implemented various strategies to develop green tourism in its mountainous areas, aiming for sustainable development that links economic and social progress while protecting natural resources and respecting cultural identities. Numerous green tourism destinations have emerged, offering comfortable spaces and appealing experiences for visitors, thereby increasing income for local communities. Ben En National Park is a standout destination, featuring stunning natural landscapes, clear blue waters, and 21 islands -- all ideal for ecotourism. The park authority has invested in tourist facilities, offering activities such as rowing on the Muc River, camping, and enjoying culinary experiences. Currently, visitors can enjoy organised tours to explore the primaeval forests of Thanh Nien Island and Thuc Vat Island, as well as community tourism activities in nearby villages. This allows guests to immerse themselves in the breathtaking scenery while experiencing unique cultural and culinary traditions. Le Cong Cuong, director of Ben En National Park, said that in recent years, tourist numbers had surged, particularly during the summer and holiday seasons. Since 2024, the park had welcomed over 27,500 visitors, averaging more than 2,000 each summer month. These statistics indicated a positive trend for tourism development in the area, Cuong said. The park authority plans to implement programmes to enhance community-based tourism, focusing on workforce training and improving existing tourist routes while introducing new ones that delve deeper into the primaeval forests, further advancing tourism at Ben En. At the Pu Luong Community Ecotourism Area, the green tourism model combines forest exploration, mountain climbing, cave adventures and environmental protection. Many businesses offer unique tours, such as buffalo cart rides to local villages, river rafting, and culinary experiences. These innovative and nature-friendly products attract numerous tourists, diversifying the tourism landscape and safeguarding the environment. Currently, this area hosts dozens of international groups daily, accounting for about 70 per cent of total visitors. Nguyen Thu Thuy, a tourist from Ha Noi, expressed her admiration for how the people of Pu Luong preserve their traditional culture. I enjoy walking to explore nature and the villages. It is wonderful. After the trip, I will share this experience with my friends and relatives, Thuy said. Thanh Hoa is home to about 650ha of natural forests, primarily concentrated in Ben En National Park and various nature reserves. The province has established 30 forest ecotourism areas and is focused on promoting its historical and cultural heritage relics, attracting a significant number of tourists. There are 11 conservation areas for scenic spots and historical sites. As part of this vibrant tourism landscape, the traditional villages of Thanh Hoa embody the essence of green tourism. These communities not only preserve their cultural heritage but also offer unique experiences that attract visitors. The following villages represent the bright pearls of green tourism in the region, showcasing the harmonious blend of nature, culture, and sustainability. Wandering along the winding red dirt roads amidst lush green mountains, visitors encounter the traditional stilt houses of the Thai ethnic group in villages of Nang Cat, Ma, Hieu, But and Son Ba Muoi. Each village presents a vivid picture of local culture, nature and community, serving as bright gems in the province's green tourism landscape. Nang Cat Village, located at the foot of Chi Linh Mountain, is renowned for the majestic Ma Hao Waterfalls, making it a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts. Locals have transformed ancient stilt houses into welcoming homestays, inviting visitors to savour local specialities, hear traditional stories, and enjoy captivating dances. Nearby, Ma Village has embraced new opportunities since the construction of a suspension bridge over the Chu River. The locals enthusiastically welcome visitors, showcasing the unique cultural features of the Thai people through weaving, rice wine production and traditional festivals. Tourists can immerse themselves in the local lifestyle, experiencing the simple pleasures of mountain life. But Village, nestled in Quan Hoa Valley, harmoniously blends green agriculture with community tourism. Surrounded by primaeval forests and Pha ay Lake, it offers experiences such as planting, harvesting and enjoying clean agricultural products in a tranquil environment. Though still developing, Hieu and Son Ba Muoi villages are investing in green tourism to preserve their cultural identities and natural landscapes. These villages serve as vital centres for traditional culture, contributing to local economic development and creating sustainable livelihoods for residents. Villagers receive training in tourism management, cultural preservation and organising folk art performances, raising awareness of their traditional values. Community tourism models provide a stable income source, supporting environmental protection and limiting adverse impacts on natural landscapes. Vuong Thi Hai Yen, deputy director of the provincial Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, said Thanh Hoa's tourism industry planned to expand regional cooperation with the neighbouring provinces of Ninh Binh and Nghe An to create a diverse product chain that would enhance visitor experiences. Developing green tourism is both a tool to attract visitors and a goal to ensure sustainability. Thanh Hoa will select its most distinctive tourism products to create appealing tours, encouraging tourists to return, Yen said. As Thanh Hoa emerges as a destination that combines pristine beauty, distinctive culture and unique experiences, the collaboration between the Government, businesses and communities is fostering green tourism. This initiative positions Thanh Hoa prominently on the national and regional tourism map in the era of green growth. VNS This year marks PeaceTrees Vietnams 30th year of tireless endeavours in its humanitarian mission to clear unexploded ordnance in the heavily bombarded Quang Tri Province. Its Executive Director Claire Yunker talks with Viet Nam News about the group's humanitarian activities. Inner Sanctum: What have been the key milestones of PeaceTrees Vietnam in Quang Tri over the past 30 years? PeaceTrees Vietnam (PTVN) was the first US-based NGO permitted to work in Viet Nam to address the dangers of wartime explosives. Founded in 1995, PTVN began operations in January 1996, led by co-founders Jerilyn Brusseau and her husband, Danaan Parry. In 2005, PTVN received its first major grant from the US State Departments Office of Weapons Removal and Abatement to clear landmines and unexploded ordnance (UXO) in Quang Tri. This support has continued and expanded over time, including funding for clearance in neighbouring provinces such as Quang Binh, Thua Thien Hue (Hue City now), and Quang Ngai. Over 30 years, PTVN has cleared more than 46 million square metres of contaminated land, returning safe farmland to local communities, and safely destroyed over 157,000 items of unexploded ordnance, including bombs and landmines. It has benefited more than 350,000 residents through clearance operations, while providing mine risk education for more than 230,000 people, mostly children. The organisation has built 24 classrooms and kindergartens, reaching 6,400 children in remote and ethnic minority communities. Two community centres, 100 family homes, and 12 libraries have been built, while awarding over 4,200 scholarships to disadvantaged children, especially girls and children of UXO victims. We welcomed around 1,280 volunteers, sponsors and diplomats to Viet Nam through exchange programmes, and planted more than 50,000 trees on land once contaminated by the explosive remnants of war. Inner Sanctum: What is the meaning behind the name of the organisation? The inspiration for PeaceTrees Vietnam began well before it was founded. It can be traced back to 1969, when Jerilyns family received word that her younger brother, an American pilot, had been killed after his helicopter was shot down. From this personal loss grew a vision of healing, reconciliation and friendship between the people of Viet Nam and the United States. In 1996, after visiting Viet Nam, Jerilyn, Danaan, and their friends and family formally established PTVN to build bridges of trust and friendship between the two nations. One of their most meaningful symbols of renewal is the tree planting programme, which takes place on land cleared of bombs and landmines. Inner Sanctum: What are the difficulties and advantages for PTVN during the operation of the humanitarian activities in Quang Tri? Unlike many international NGOs, PTVN is unique in being fully staffed by Vietnamese professionals. Today, the organisation has 345 staff members who are deeply connected with the communities they serve. Our greatest challenge is the sheer scale of contamination. Quang Tri remains one of the most heavily bombed provinces in the world. UXO clearance is only the first step. To support communities fully, we also invest in education, nutrition, and livelihood projects for ethnic minority women and families affected by war. Fortunately, we have received steady support from both the US Government and local Vietnamese authorities, as well as countless individual donors and families in the US and beyond. These partnerships make our work possible. Inner Sanctum: What has been the biggest achievement during this 30-year humanitarian course in Viet Nam? It has been a long journey for PeaceTrees Vietnam, one that closely reflects the evolving relationship and partnership between the United States and Viet Nam. What began as a small organisation with only a handful of staff has grown into a team of hundreds of dedicated Vietnamese professionals who lead all aspects of our operations and continuously strengthen our technical expertise. Over the past three decades, PeaceTrees programmes and projects have been recognised by the central government, local authorities, and communities alike. Among our most meaningful achievements is the creation of safe living environments and stable farmland for families, where children can attend school without fear and enjoy better access to education and nutrition. Communities are not only safer but also more resilient, with significantly fewer accidents caused by landmines, bombs, and UXO. Perhaps most importantly, we have witnessed remarkable progress in the relationship between the Vietnamese and American people, as well as the broader, multidimensional partnership between our two nations. Inner Sanctum: What is in the future for PTVN? Building on 30 years of successful operations in Quang Tri and across Viet Nam, we are committed to expanding our support for local governments and communities in central Viet Nam and in other provinces still affected by the consequences of war. Our priority in the years ahead is to leverage our proven expertise in mine and bomb clearance, together with our experience in community development, to design and implement targeted programmes that maximise safety, strengthen resilience, and promote long-term stability. Guided by three decades of learning, we will continue to set clear, evidence-based priorities that deliver measurable impact for the communities we serve. Above all, we remain inspired by the vision of a future where families can thrive in safety, children can grow without fear and former battlefields are transformed into places of peace and opportunity. VNS Haiphong Peoples Committee organised the event, in tandem with Vingroup, for the first phase of Tan Trao Industrial Park (IP) and the Haiphong LNG-fuelled Thermal Power Plant. PM Pham Minh Chinh, leaders, and executives press the bottom to commence the groundbreaking ceremony This event was of great significance, celebrating the first Congress of the city's Party Committee for the 20252030 term. The Tan Trao IP is invested by Vinhomes Haiphong Industrial Zone Investment JSC. The project covers around 227 hectares, located in Kien Hung and Nghi Duong communes, with total investment topping $160 million. The project will be implemented over five years. Once completed, the IP will become a major hub for new industries and technologies with advanced technical infrastructure, attracting multi-sector investments such as electricity, electronics, telecommunications, pharmaceuticals, supporting industries, new materials, clean energy, and renewable energy. Notably, it will gather tens of thousands of high-quality workers nationwide and internationally. A perspective of Tan Trao IP With its scale, location, and synchronised development orientation, Tan Trao IP will be one of the new growth drivers, enhancing Haiphongs investment appeal and becoming a model industrial centre for the country. Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony, Nguyen Viet Quang, vice chairman and CEO of Vingroup, said, Tan Trao IP will establish modern infrastructure and attract high-tech industries, while synchronising with the Haiphong LNG-fuelled Thermal Power Plant, a strategic energy undertaking ensuring stable supply. This synergy will create a closed industrial-energy ecosystem, increasing investment appeal and promoting sustainable development. He noted that the project represents a comprehensive development model that Vingroup hopes to replicate, contributing to the country's goal of industrialisation and modernisation. The Haiphong LNG-fuelled Thermal Power Plant is located within Tan Trao IP and is invested by a consortium of Vingroup and VinEnergo Energy JSC. The complex will cover nearly 100 ha with a total investment surpassing $7.12 billion. The plant will also take five years to complete and is expected to be operational by the end of 2030. It will supply about 9.6 billion kWh annually in the first phase, increasing to 19.2 billion kWh in the second phase, meeting electricity demand for the entire Tan Trao IP and adding significant capacity to the national grid, supporting grid regulation and reducing dependence on traditional energy sources. Power generated from liquefied natural gas (LNG) emits minimal SO 2 , is dust-free, and has lower NOx emissions compared to power from fossil fuels such as coal and oil. The establishment of the plant marks Vingroups strategic step in the clean energy transition, paving the way for green and sustainable economic development. The plant will use imported LNG fuel, benefiting from its strategic location near the Van Uc River estuary, which can accommodate LNG carriers of up to 180,000cu.m. The undertaking will include a dedicated port, a floating storage unit (with a regasification system), and a pipeline network to supply the plant, with a total capacity of 4,800MW. A perspective of Haiphong LNG Power Plant Phase 1 of the plant have a designed capacity of 1,600MW, and is expected to be operational no later than 2030. Phase 2 is scheduled to start construction in 2028 and be completed no later than 2035. This will be the largest thermal power plant in Vietnam under the governments Power Development Plan VIII and among the worlds leading LNG power plants. The synchronised implementation of 4,800MW is the basis for optimising economic efficiency, reducing investment costs, shortening construction time, and putting the project into operation sooner. The investor therefore plans to bring the entire capacity into operation before 2030, which will help address the urgent risk of power shortages in the northern region and ensure national energy security. As this is a large, stable baseload power source, it will help reduce dependence on hydropower and ease the pressure on the North-South power transmission system, creating a solid foundation to attract high-tech foreign-invested projects such as semiconductors and data centres. At the same time, it will turn Haiphong into one of the countrys largest energy hubs, contributing to enriching the budget and creating thousands of new jobs. Haiphong Peoples Committee has asked the Ministry of Industry and Trade to adjust the schedule in the Power Development Plan VIII so that the entire 4,800MW Haiphong LNG Power Plant will become operational before 2030. Le Ngoc Chau, chairman of Haiphong Peoples Committee, noted, The groundbreaking of two major projects today affirms the citys superior policies in attracting investment into the economic zone. This is also a concrete result of the drastic, synchronised, and effective involvement of the entire political system, aiming to realise strategic resolutions of the Politburo, particularly Resolution 68 on developing the private economy in the area; creating strong momentum to drive new growth, and an important outcome from the citys investment promotion conference on July 15. Delivering a speech at the event, PM Pham Minh Chinh assessed that the two projects being launched are of great significance in the context of accelerating economic restructuring, renewing the growth model, and developing based on a green economy, digital economy, science, technology, and innovation. The two projects will contribute to driving industrial development, selective attraction of foreign investment with high technology, modern governance, and high-quality human resource training; as well as green energy development and climate change response, the PM said. The PM requested the investors to promote sustainable growth, fulfill commitments, accelerate progress, and ensure quality, technical standards, aesthetics, safety, and environmental standards are met, while creating new jobs. The two strategic projects launched today are expected to create new development momentum for Haiphong and the North, and show the determination to accompany the government in ensuring energy security, boosting the green transition, and elevating Vietnams position on the global economic map, the PM noted. Haiphong restates its goals with solid fundamentals The northern port city of Haiphong is ready to enter the countrys new era thanks to a solid economic foundation in collaboration with new potential and motivation. Haiphong attracts $15.6 billion in investment Haiphong has reaffirmed its position as a magnet for investment and a strategic economic hub, drawing over $15.6 billion in registered capital at the 2025 Investment Promotion Conference held on July 15 under the theme "Haiphong - A Strategic Gateway to the New Era". David LAM Chi Man, JP, Under Secretary for Development, Development Bureau, HKSARG Sr Hon. Tony TSE Wai Chuen, SBS, JP, Member of Legislative Council of the HKSAR (Architectural, Surveying, Planning and Landscape Functional Constituency) LEI Peng, Vice President, Glodon Company Limited Sr Thomas WONG, Director, Beria Consultants Limited Sr LAM Yen Ling, Managing Director, Rider Levett Bucknall Limited Sr Katherine LEUNG Oi Kwan, Assistant Director (Quantity Surveying), Architectural Services Department, HKSARG Ir Sr Tony ZA Wai Gin, Executive Director, Hip Hing Construction Co., Ltd. Michael FONG Hok Shing, JP, Director of Civil Engineering and Development, HKSARG Elvis LI, CEO, isBIM Limited Sr Pesire LAU Yuen Man, Deputy Director, Rider Levett Bucknall Limited Sr Gareth CHAN, MHKIS, MAIQS CQS Sr Colin KIN, President, Quantity Surveying Division, Singapore Institute of Surveyors and Valuers Sr Dickey LEE Kwok Wing, Director, LESK Solutions Co., Ltd. Sr Stanley CHANG Hon Wah, Hon Secretary, Quantity Surveying Division, Singapore Institute of Surveyors and Valuers Sr Alvis WONG Ka Wai, Director, Rider Levett Bucknall Limited Sr Francis LEUNG Lap Ki, Past President, The Hong Kong Institute of Surveyors Sr Betty LO K.Y., NEC Tutor Prof. Isabelle CHAN Y.S., Associate Head of Department and Director of BSc (Surveying) Programme, Department of Real Estate and Construction, The University of Hong Kong HONG KONG SAR - Media OutReach Newswire - 27 September 2025 - The Hong Kong Institute of Surveyors (HKIS) Quantity Surveying Division hosted the HKIS Quantity Surveying Division Conference 2025 (the Conference) today at the CIC-Zero Carbon Park.This year's theme, "Navigating '3Cs Role in QS' in the New Era: Cost Management, Chance and Collaboration", reflects the evolving role of Quantity Surveyors during a time of economic restructuring.The Conference brought together around 250 participants both in person and online, including government officials, industry leaders, professionals, academics, and young practitioners. David LAM Chi Man, JP, Under Secretary for Development of the HKSAR Government, attended as the Guest of Honour and delivered a keynote speech.Quantity Surveyors are trained construction cost consultants with expertise in costs, values, finance, contracts, and legal matters related to the built environment. In today's rapidly changing market, the roles of Quantity Surveyors have become increasingly vital, extending well beyond cost estimation. Through collaboration and technology adoption, Quantity Surveyors act as trusted advisors who safeguard financial viability, enhance efficiency, and unlock value in project delivery.David LAM Chi Man, JP, Under Secretary for Development of the HKSAR Government, said in his keynote speech that the conference, covering issues such as construction cost management, opportunities brought by new mega development and new technologies as well as the power of collaborative contracting, underscored the evolving role of quantity surveyors from traditional cost controllers to innovators, facilitators and collaborators, in shaping the future of the industry. The Government is proactively increasing the investment in public works projects. Mr Lam encouraged quantity surveyors to continue upskilling, embracing new tools, and seizing opportunities to lead the industry forward.Featuring 18 distinguished speakers from Hong Kong, Mainland China, Singapore and Australia, the Conference aimed to stimulate thought-provoking discussions, providing participants not only technical knowledge but also broader perspectives on how Quantity Surveyors can adapt to global trends and take the lead in meeting local needs.Sr Robin LEUNG Chi Tim, President of the Hong Kong Institute of Surveyors, noted in his welcome speech, "This year's theme reflects the dynamic evolution of our profession. Quantity Surveyors today transcend cost management roles; they are already well acquainted with emerging opportunities and actively foster collaboration across sectors. In this era of economic restructuring, their specialised knowledge and expertise are indispensable in driving Hong Kong's development into a resilient and sustainable city."Sr Tim NGAI Chi Hang, Chairman of the HKIS Quantity Surveying Division, said: "Amid economic restructuring, Quantity Surveyors are central to safeguarding cost management while creating value and resilience in projects. Today's conference serves as both a platform for professional advancement and a reminder of the meaningful impact our profession makes on the built environment. QSD will continue to serve our members by promoting professional excellence and fostering innovation."Sr Mandy NG Man Yan, Organising Committee Chair of the Conference stated in her closing remarks, "Today's programme showcased the many ways Quantity Surveyors can lead in a time of economic restructuring from AI-driven cost management to opportunities in the Northern Metropolis and collaborative contracting. The discussions offered not only technical insights but also broader inspiration on how our profession can adapt, innovate, and thrive in the new era."List of Speakers (in order of presentation delivery)Keynote Speech by Guest of HonourSession 1: Effective Cost ManagementSession 2: Chance of QS in the New EraSession 3: Collaboration in QS Dutieshttp://www.hkis.org.hk The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. BANGKOK, THAILAND - Media OutReach Newswire - 26 September 2025 - ONYX Hospitality Group, a leading hotel management company in Southeast Asia with a diverse portfolio of hotels, resorts, serviced apartments, and luxury residences, is honoured to have been voted "Best Local Hotel Brand Thailand" at the 34th Annual TTG Travel Awards 2025. This prestigious accolade was determined by readers of TTG Travel Trade Publishing's print and online titles, including TTG Asia, TTG China, TTG India, TTGmice, TTG-BTmice China, TTGassociations, and TTG Asia Luxury. The award was formally presented and accepted by Yuthachai Charanachitta, Chief Executive Officer of ONYX Hospitality Group, during the TTG Travel Awards 2025 Ceremony & Gala Dinner on 25th September 2025 at the Centara Grand & Bangkok Convention Centre at CentralWorld. Yuthachai Charanachitta, Chief Executive Officer of ONYX Hospitality Group, said: "We are deeply honoured to be recognised as "Best Local Hotel Brand Thailand" at the TTG Travel Awards 2025. This award is a reflection of the trust and support of our guests, partners, and the travel community. It is also a testament to the dedication of our team members, whose passion for service brings our Tailored Approach to Hospitality to life every day. We remain committed to elevating our brand experiences, expanding our footprint, and shaping the future of hospitality in the region." This recognition highlights ONYX Hospitality Group's dedication to delivering outstanding guest experiences through its portfolio of complementary brands Amari, OZO, Shama, and Oriental Residence each designed to meet the evolving needs of business and leisure travellers. Headquartered in Thailand with a strategic hub in Hong Kong overseeing its assets in Greater China, ONYX Hospitality Group continues to elevate its brand standards and world-class service across all markets. The diverse portfolio spans multiple countries, and each brand under ONYX is uniquely crafted to meet the evolving expectations of global travellers from leisure to bleisure to business ensuring a consistently exceptional experience wherever they stay. From the warm hospitality of Amari and the fresh, contemporary vibe of OZO, to the refined elegance of Oriental Residence Bangkok and the flexible serviced living solutions of Shama, ONYX Hospitality Group offers an option for every type of traveller. The most recent addition, Amari Bangsaen, further reinforces ONYX's commitment to expanding its footprint and delivering more choice in Thailand, alongside ongoing development across the wider region. Guided by a personalised approach to service and an unwavering commitment to excellence, ONYX Hospitality Group is driving its vision to become the leading medium-sized hospitality management company in the region, supported by a strong pipeline of growth and innovation. Voted by industry readers, this award carries special significance, underscoring ONYX's reputation and trusted standing within the travel community. For more information on ONYX Hospitality Group please visit: www.onyx-hospitality.com The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. Welsh hospices facing unsustainable financial crisis This article is old - Published: Sunday, Sep 28th, 2025 Hospices are facing an unsustainable financial crisis due to rising costs and falling income, forcing them to close beds and cut vital end-of-life services, a Senedd member warned. Mark Isherwood said the crisis was laid bare in July when St Davids Hospice in Holyhead announced four in-patient beds would temporarily close from October. Mr Isherwood pointed to a survey showing 90% of hospices in Wales expected staffing and cost pressures to force similar reductions in services. Leading a debate on September 24, he told the Senedd: Nightingale House Hospice in Wrexham is facing increasing financial pressures. They state that the current funding model is not sustainable and does not secure future hospice care. Mr Isherwood, who chairs the Senedds cross-party group on hospices and palliative care, said statutory funding as a proportion of hospice care spending was only 30%. This disparity must end The Conservative, who represents North Wales, raised Marie Curies calls to urgently strengthen a palliative and end-of-life care system under severe strain. As they state, many people die in pain, isolated and without proper support, he said. Mr Isherwood warned hospices in Wales receive less government funding as a proportion of expenditure than those in England and Scotland. This disparity must be addressed, he said. The essential clinical care that ensures dignity at the end of life must no longer depend on the uncertainty of charitable fundraising. Criticising progress on a new commissioning framework and sustainable funding settlement, he called for the Welsh Government to deliver pay parity with the NHS for hospice staff. Hospice care is not a luxury, it is a necessity, said the north Walian. Let us ensure that every person in Wales can access the palliative care they need, when they need it. Deeply human Mr Isherwood warned Wales two childrens hospices, Ty Gobaith and Ty Hafan, have not been told when they will receive their share of a promised 3m Welsh Government fund. The disability rights campaigner said the sector supports 20,000 adults and children each year and the need for palliative care is set to rise by 25% over the next 25 years. Mr Isherwood pointed out that hospices collectively invest about 30m into the health and care system each year. He raised Bangor University research which found a 14-day hospice stay costs more than 1,000 less than the cheapest hospital option in north Wales. His Conservative colleague Peter Fox said: Hospices play a vital role in caring for some of our most vulnerable members in society, especially those who are nearing the end of life, and their work is not only compassionate and skilled but also deeply human. It brings dignity, comfort and support at a time when its needed most and Im sure many of you here have experienced that. I certainly have, with hospices looking after my parents in their latter days and also my wifes parents. Fragile Jeremy Miles, for the Welsh Government, agreed about the importance of hospices which offer compassion, dignity and hope, providing expert care for thousands of people. Wales health secretary told Senedd members: Investment in hospices is the right thing to do ethically but is also a wise move economically. Warning that relying on fundraising creates a fragile financial situation, he said ministers have been reviewing funding models to put hospices on a more sustainable footing. Mr Miles, who last week announced he will stand down at Mays election, stated the Welsh Government has boosted funding by 5.2m a year and provided a one-off 9m grant. He said: While community fundraising will always remain important, it cannot be right that such a critical part of our health system is left vulnerable to financial uncertainty. By Chris Haines, ICNN Senedd reporter On September 27, Officers from the Reno Police Department arrest Christian Esparaza, a Norteno gang member. Prior to his arrest, he was involved in a battery with a deadly weapon on July 20, where the victim had life threatening injuries. Due to the nature of the incident, detectives from the Regional Gang Unit were requested to assist with the investigation, according to the Reno Police Department. Christian Esparaza was booked with the following charges: Tributes lay on a memorial Friday, Sept. 26, 2025, for four teenage girls who were killed in a yogurt shop in 1991 in Austin, Texas. (AP Photo/Paul J. Weber) AP For years, the unsolved killings of four teenage girls in an Austin yogurt shop in 1991 haunted investigators in the Texas capital. Two men were charged and convicted, only to have DNA evidence exonerate them, leaving the brutal deaths -- in which the girls were bound, gagged and shot before the building was set on fire -- an enduring mystery. Then Friday, authorities announced DNA evidence identified a new suspect: Robert Eugene Brashers, a long dead serial killer linked to several deaths and rapes across the country. Austin police say they will provide more details Monday of the breakthrough in the cold case, which was the subject of an HBO documentary series released last month, The Yogurt Shop Murders. Heres what you need to know: The victims The killings happened on Dec. 6, 1991, at an I Cant Believe Its Yogurt! shop in Austin. Around closing time, investigators say, someone entered the store through the back door and attacked four teens before setting the building on fire. Amy Ayers, 13; Eliza Thomas, 17; and sisters Jennifer and Sarah Harbison, ages 17 and 15, had their hands tied with underwear and their mouths gagged with cloth. They were each shot in the head, their bodies found by firefighters battling the blaze. The wrongly accused Eight years passed before police made an arrest in 1999. Robert Springsteen and Michael Scott had been teenagers at the time of the murders. They initially confessed, implicating each other. They were tried and convicted, even though as they recanted and said their statements were made under duress. More years passed. The convictions were overturned on appeals. The two men were set for a retrial, but prosecutors said new more advanced DNA analysis pointed to another suspect. A judge ordered both men freed in 2009. The serial killer Brashers died in 1999 when he shot himself during an hours long standoff with police at a motel in Kennett, Missouri. In the years after his death, police were able to use advances in forensic DNA analysis to connect him to a string of unsolved killings. In 2018, Missouri authorities implicated Brashers in the 1998 killing of Sherri Scherer and her daughter, Megan, in their home near Portageville, about 155 miles (250 kilometers) southeast of St. Louis. In that case, police said Brashers sexually assaulted the 12-year-old victim. The police investigation also connected him to the 1990 killing of Genevieve Zitricki, a 28 year-old found beaten and strangled in her bathtub in Greenville, South Carolina, as well as the rape of a 14-year-old girl in Memphis, Tennessee in 1997. Authorities at the time said Brashers lengthy criminal record included attempted murder, burglary and impersonating a police officer. Killers daughter reacts Brashers daughter, in interviews with local news stations, expressed surprise and sorrow upon learning about the latest deaths linked to her father. Deborah Brashers-Claunch told KVUE-TV that she was just an infant when the Austin murders happened and just 8 years old when her father died. She told KXAN-TV that she didnt know why he ended up in Austin, other than to note that he worked in construction. She said she believes more crimes could come to light. I am very sorry to every family that my father hurt, Brashers-Claunch told the Austin station. I know that it is not my place at all to tell you I am sorry, but someone has to because he was not sorry for it and half of my DNA is the person that hurt you the most, so I want to tell you sorry, and I am so sorry for everything. But I am finally glad that you are getting answers. Dr. Kenneth G. Bodiford is retiring after more than 30 years as Director of Bands at Jacksonville State University Jacksonville State University A well-respected Alabama band director is retiring after more than 30 years at Jacksonville State University. Dr. Kenneth G. Bodiford has grown the Marching Southerners from 120 members to more than 500 since he took over as Director of Bands in 1994, according to the school in a press release Sunday. The Marching Southerners are synonymous with Jacksonville State University, inspiring pride in our alumni and community wherever they go, said President Don C. Killingsworth, Jr. of Bodifords impact. Bodiford attended Jax state in 1983 as a freshman from Odenville. He earned a bachelors in music education in 1988 and a masters degree at East Carolina University, according to the school. Bodifords first job was directing the band at Kecoughtan High School in Hampton, VA., before taking over the band at his alma mater. He earned a PhD in Musical Arts from the University of Alabama in 2012. Weve shared some incredible shows, but the real magic has always been the family bond we build year after year, said Bodiford, who called the job the honor of his life. Creating a place where every single person feels like they belongthat is what makes the Southerners truly special. Bodiford has been recognized for his excellence in teaching with the McWhorter Outstanding Teacher Award at the university. Notable moments for the Marching Southerners under Bodiford include worldwide travel, such as leading Londons New Years Day Parade as part of the Queens Diamond Jubilee, performing in Rome and at the Vatican for World Peace Day in 2019 and commemorating the 80th anniversary of D-Day in Normandy in 2024. The ensemble was honored with a Sudler Trophy in 2022 and was the smallest university to ever win the award given by the John Phillip Sousa Foundation to a college band every two years, according to the school. The Marching Southerners have travel plans spanning into 2027 when they will perform in the Rose Parade in Pasadena, California. Bodiford also led the Jax State Chamber Winds and taught conducting classes. He is the bands sixth director in its nearly 70 years of existence. My dream has always been to see this program continue to grow stronger each year, he said, encouraging his students to treat their next director well and, go into the world and be the light. Foley, Alabama, was recently named among the "10 Best Places to Call Home on the Gulf Coast in 2025" according to WorldAtlas. City of Foley One of Alabamas fastest-growing cities was named as among the best places to call home along the Gulf Coast, according to WorldAtlas. The City of Foley, which ranked No. 7 on the list, highlighted the recognition among cities in Texas, Mississippi, Florida, and Louisiana. Foley was the only city from Alabama on the list. Pascagoula, which is about 40 miles west of Mobile, came in at No. 2. The website credits the citys small-town feel with easy access to the beaches in Gulf Shores. That proximity provides access to the Gulf beaches while retaining quieter, more affordable living, the website says. Anyone who loves trains will appreciate the multifaceted Foley Railroad Museum. Michelle Matthews The report provides a brief history lesson about the city it was founded in 1915 by Chicago magnate John B. Foley, who envisioned it as a farming and rail community and cites the Foley Railroad Museum and Model Train exhibit as a nod to the towns roots. Other attractions cited in the report are the citys inviting shops, antique stores, and local dining spots that are within walking distance of the shaded Heritage Park that hosts local concerts and year-round activities. WorldAtlas also highlights the Graham Creek Nature Preserve with its trails, wetlands, and kayak routes creating an endless playground for nature lovers. WorldAtlas is one of the largest publishing resources in geography and other topics it covers including sociology, demography, environment, economics, politics and travel. The resource has served more than 165 million readers worldwide. The WorldAtlas 10 included: Port Lavaca, Texas Pascagoula, Mississippi Port Richey, Florida Apalachicola, Florida Palacios, Texas Port St. Joe, Florida Foley Thibodaux, Louisiana Morgan City, Louisiana Carabelle, Florida. The Foley ranking comes as the city has seen a surge in population as it is on track to become the largest city in Baldwin County. Foley added 3,012 residents from 2023 to 2024 for a 12% growth in population in one year. The growth rate was, by far, the most among cities in Alabama during the year. Foleys population is slightly more than 28,000 residents. Daphne, the largest city in Baldwin County, has a population of around 29,000 residents. Alabama Rep. and Mobile mayoral candidate Barbara Drummond speaks outside Morningside Elementary School on the morning of Sept. 23, 2025, before casting her vote in the city's runoff election. Lawrence Specker | LSpecker@AL.com The Alabama Republican Party is celebrating a string of local election wins, including a hotly contest mayoral runoff in Mobile, as a sign of the GOPs strength in one of the nations most reliably red states. But Democrats argue the story is more complex than the partys victory lap suggests. State Rep. Barbara Drummond, a Democrat who narrowly lost Tuesdays Mobile mayoral runoff to Republican Spiro Cheriogotis, said the GOP is embellishing the narrative. This was a campaign about Mobile, Drummond said. We wanted to maintain that we were fighting for those who are left behind and the forgotten community in this city. We wanted to engage all of those neighborhoods and we achieved that. It was an awfully close election terribly close. It signals that more people need to get involved in the electoral process. Mobile is facing a great future and we need people to step up to the plate. Partisan reactions Alabama Republican Chairman John Wahl speaks to a reporter inside the spin room following the fourth Republican presidential primary debate on Wednesday, Dec. 6, 2023, in the Frank Moody Music Hall at the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa, Ala. John Sharp/jsharp@al.com The Alabama GOP hailed Tuesdays results as a repudiation of what it called far-left influence, citing runoff victories in Mobile, Hoover and Guntersville. These victories send a clear message and underscored the power of local voters rejecting far-left influence in Alabamas cities, Alabama Republican Party Chairman John Wahl said. Voters want leaders who will keep our neighborhoods safe, build a stronger economy, and defend our freedoms not big-government politicians who think they know how to live our lives better than we do. Jeff McLaughlin, a former Democratic state lawmaker who lost to incumbent Mayor Leigh Dollar in the Guntersville mayoral runoff and who attempted to keep partisan politics out of his race, said he was disappointed in how it degenerated into the partisan cesspool that it did. Wahl said the party is committed to standing with our candidates in every race, from Washington to Montgomery to City Hall, and has openly questioned whether nonpartisan elections standard in most U.S. municipalities should continue. Democratic leaders in Alabama say Republicans are ignoring key facts. Barbara had a strong turnout. We are proud of the campaign she ran, said Mobile County Democratic Party Chairman Ben Harris. Harris pointed to other Democratic successes, including the election of JaeQues Brown in Greenville, who defeated five-term incumbent Mayor Dexter McClendon to become the citys first Black mayor. Brown, a Democratic Party leader in Butler County, won with 59% of the vote in a city that is 62% Black. In Bay Minette last month, voters also elected the citys first Black mayor, Joshua Brown, who ousted longtime Mayor Bob Wills in a majority-white city. Endorsement reactions FILE - Kamala Harris speaks in Washington, Nov. 6, 2024. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin, File) AP Still, the biggest battleground this week was Mobile, where Cheriogotis victory over Drummond marked a Republican win in a majority-minority city that had attracted national attention. Drummond received endorsements from national Democrats including U.S. Sen. Raphael Warnock of Georgia, Sen. Cory Booker of New Jersey, former U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg and U.S. Rep. Sanford Bishop of Georgia, a Mobile native. Former Vice President Kamala Harris gave Drummond a brief shoutout during a TV interview the night before the runoff. But notably absent from the endorsement list was Mobiles own Democratic congressman, Rep. Shomari Figures, who did not back either candidate and did not respond to a request for comment. What really surprised me is we had Congress people from Georgia endorse Barbara, said State Rep. Sam Jones, a former Mobile mayor and longtime ally of Drummond. He is from Mobile, but the Congressman from Alabama didnt endorse anyone. I dont know what the problem is with that, but it certainly didnt help her. Drummond, the Democratic Caucus chair of the Alabama State House of Representatives, said she never asked for endorsements. I didnt go out and ask anyone, she said. All those endorsements that came in are from people who looked at this race and knew it was winnable, and they endorsed freely. It wasnt because I was asking anyone to endorse me because I was not. The timing couldnt have been more precarious: the endorsements landed as the national Democratic Party grapples with historically low approval ratings even as President Donald Trumps overall support drops. Republican political analyst Steve Flowers said the influx of national Democratic attention may have backfired. The national and state Democratic Party making it a Democratic race backfired, and the Republicans reacted more to the partisan rhetoric, Flowers said, noting that the message appeared to resonate with white voters in Mobiles newly annexed areas. Annexation factor Mobile Mayor Sandy Stimpson is all smiles after a special election on Tuesday, July 18, 2023. The election saw more than 19,700 residents annexed into the city of Mobile, which will propel the city's population above 204,000. It will make Mobile the second-largest city in Alabama. (John Sharp/jsharp@al.com). In 2023, voters in west Mobile approved a large annexation effort that added more than 19,000 residents to the city, making Mobile the second largest in the state and shifting its demographics. Annexation also added more white residents to the city, which likely meant more Republican voters. In Alabama, like other Southern states, racial demographics often align with political party affiliation. Beverly Cooper, co-founder of Stand Up Mobile a group that pushed back against annexation two years ago -- said the effort diluted the recently obtained Black majority the city had after the 2020 Census count. The Census put Mobile with a 49.7% Black to 44.4% white split among voting-age citizens. After annexation, the split was more evenly divided. They said it would not do anything to impact the Black majority, Cooper said, echoing comments made in support of annexation before the 2023 special election. I think it did. After this years election, the racial demographic make-up of the citys leadership remains unchanged for the next four years. The Mobile City Council will continue with a 4-3 white majority, while the mayor is also white. That was one of the biggest concerns we had and tried to impress upon the council and the administration and the citizens of Mobile that this annexation would end up diluting the recent majority (from the 2020 Census), Cooper said. Election results appear to support that concern. At the Creekwood Church of Christ precinct, a newly annexed area, Cheriogotis beat Drummond 1,427 to 469 a 958-vote margin in a race he won by 1,391 votes overall. Drummond increased her vote count in that precinct by 218 between the Aug. 26 election and the runoff. Cheriogotis increased his vote total by 1,004. Black voter turnout Voters exit the Connie Hudson Senior Center after voting in the Mobile mayoral runoff on Tuesday, Sept. 23, 2025, in Mobile, Ala. John Sharp Despite losing, Drummond said she saw a positive sign in increased Black voter turnout. But turnout was uneven across Mobiles council districts. Council District 3, represented by Council President C.J. Small a Drummond supporter saw the lowest turnout. Districts 4 and 5, which went for Cheriogotis, had the highest. Overall, 31% of Mobile voters cast ballots in the runoff, up from 26% in the Aug. 26 election. But thats down from turnout levels in previous mayoral races, including 35% in 2013 and 31% in 2017. Jones, the former mayor, said systemic problems are holding back Black turnout. I remember during my first election at the Figures Community Center, we had 160 people waiting to vote when the polls were closing, Jones said about the 2005 mayoral contest, which he won. At my last election (in 2017), there was hardly anyone at the polls at the end of the day. Cooper agreed, saying younger voters are less connected to the Civil Rights era narratives that traditionally motivated Black turnout. It is systemic and much deeper than a matter of folks who would respond to the stories about gaining the right to vote, she said. Its a different world nowadays. Candidates react Mobile Mayor-elect Spiro Cheriogotis celebrates his win during the mayoral runoff election on Tuesday, Sept. 23, 2025, at Crown Hall in downtown Mobile, Ala. John Sharp Cheriogotis, a political newcomer, kept his remarks diplomatic on Election Night. I dont want to criticize or critique my opponent. I think we ran really tough races, he said. There is no doubt Barbara Drummond loves the City of Mobile just as much as Spiro Cheriogotis loves the City of Mobile. He added, Im thankful for our result and Im thankful it resulted in around 1,000 more Mobilians voting for me. But I cannot ignore her constituents. I want to serve them, too. I want to serve everyone in Mobile. I hope Barbara and I can walk forward as leaders in this city and work together. Jones said the tone of the mayoral race, even with national attention, remained refreshingly focused on issues. I think she ran probably one of the best campaigns Ive seen in some time, Jones said. And for Drummond, win or lose, the message was about inclusion. This was a campaign about Mobile, she said. We wanted to engage all of those neighborhoods and we achieved that. Sydney Sweeney was among the first celebrities to react to Selena Gomez and Benny Blancos wedding photographs. Sydney Sweeney was among the first celebrities to react to Selena Gomez and Benny Blancos wedding photographs The 28-year-old Euphoria actress paid tribute to the couple after they shared images on Instagram of their nuptials in California at the weekend. The couple, who announced their engagement in December 2024, posted photos from a rehearsal dinner on Friday (26,09.25) night, with Selena, 32, seen wearing a white halter-neck gown by Ralph Lauren while Benny, 36, appeared in a black tuxedo. The photographs, showing the pair strolling hand in hand at the Goleta estate, drew nearly five million likes within an hour. Selena captioned the post: Forever begins now. Benny added in the comments: My wife in real life. Sydney and fellow actress Sabrina Carpenter, 25, were quick to press like on the post, with additional tributes flooding in from stars across film, television and music. Camila Cabello wrote: Love looks good on you. Amy Schumer commented: Breathtaking, with a heart-eyed emoji. Chef Gordon Ramsay added: So happy for the both of you. Congrats! Gx. The official Instagram account for Only Murders in the Building, in which Selena stars as Mabel, posted: Our Mabel is MARRIED. Media personality Taylen Biggs wrote: I love you and so happy for you guys!!! while Hulus account shared: This is everything and more, followed by a white heart emoji. Rare Beauty, Selenas cosmetics brand, added: So beyond happy for you two. Preparations for Selenas wedding took place at the 70-acre Sea Crest Nursery, where marquees, floral displays and fairy lights were set up. According to the Daily Mail, Selena invested around $300,000 in security. Guests stayed at the El Encanto Hotel before being driven in black Mercedes vans to the venue. Among those attending were Taylor Swift, 35, who had promised to act as flower girl, as well as Martin Short, Eric Andre and Ed Sheerans manager Stuart Camp. Taylor flew in from Kansas City on Friday and checked in at the Rosewood Miramar in Montecito. Her fiance Travis Kelce remained with the Kansas City Chiefs for their game against the Baltimore Ravens. Selena and Benny first worked together on the 2019 single I Cant Get Enough. Their friendship later developed into a romance after collaborating on Selenas 2023 hit Single Soon. By December that year, Selena confirmed their relationship, writing of Benny: (He is the) best thing thats ever happened to me. The end. Starbucks is now open for travelers at Huntsville International Airport near Gates 8 and 10. Scott Turner/AL.com Starting today, Starbucks is closing up to 1% of its locations as part of a company revamp. The move means laying off 900 nonretail employees so it can focus resources on its turnaround plan, The Associated Press reported. The company expects to end its fiscal year this Sunday with 434 fewer stores in North America than it had at the end of June, according to AP. Four of those are in Alabama. AL.com checked the store information for the four locations and all are listed as closed starting Sunday, Sept. 29. Those stores are: Eufaula 811 Eufaula Ave. Vestavia Hills 3186 Rush Street Liberty Park Montgomery 6501 Atlanta Highway/Atlanta Highway and McLemore Mobile 3255 Airport Blvd/I-65 Airport Blvd. In Vestavia Hills, news of the Starbucks closing the Liberty Park location on Saturday night prompted some on social media to urge customers to reach out to the company and ask them to reconsider. "This decision will impact many in our community, including small groups who regularly meet therelike Bible Club on Wednesday eveningswho will truly miss this space," one person wrote on a Vestavia Hills community page. These people have been super nice and theyve almost become like a part of the family in just the sense of like your morning coffee routine, Noah Cardenas, a Liberty Park resident, told Fox 6 News. In Mobile, an employee who wished to remain anonymous told WKRG that some workers would move to other locations around Mobile. This is an opinion column Click here to sign up for the Comeback Town newsletter. Todays guest columnist is Richard Friedman. I hugged her as soon as I saw her. This friend, a Birmingham Christian woman in her 20s, had just come back from Israel. Shed been there during the June war with Iran, sheltering in Jerusalem. She had helped lead a group for a national organization that connects young Christians with Israel and Jews. My wife, Sally, and I were meeting her for dinner at Birminghams Summit. We became friends right after October 7, 2023, when she reached out to comfort our Jewish community in the wake of the murderous attack by Hamas. When are you going to Israel? she wanted to know. September 3-17, we told her. Be prepared, she said. Its not the same country. Were back and she was right. Israel is not the same country. Its stronger. Yes, Israel is anguished over its devastating losses, hostages Hamas still holds, and Palestinian civilians whove died because the terror group has used them as human shields. There also is sadness for the Palestinians whove suffered from hunger due to a distribution crisis largely manipulated by Hamas. Yet, Israel has gotten stronger these past two years. This was clear as we traveled to the Gaza, Lebanese, Syrian and Jordanian borders and points in between talking to Israelis, most of them connected to Birmingham, about the impact of October 7 and its aftermath. Remarkably, over the past two years Israel, with Americas help, has defeated Iran; dismantled Hezbollah (remember the pagers?); attacked the Houthis; played a role in regime change in Syria; intensified its war against Hamas while securing the release of a sizable number of hostages, and eliminated a vast swath of terrorist leaders. This tiny country, with a population not much larger than Alabamas and Mississippis combined, also has fought a devastating and unfair PR war, found the time and resources to make medical breakthroughs, and revolutionized the Middle Easts geopolitical map not only to its advantage but also to Americas. And Israel has done the above while helping Jews around the world, including in the US, fight back against an explosion of hatred not seen since the Holocaust, a pandemic of antisemitism that erupted the day after the October 7 massacre, weeks before the Israeli army entered Gaza. Determination, resilience, affirmation and strength were the words I scribbled in my notebook throughout my trip. We are resilient. We are strong, we heard from Israelis in every region of the country regardless of their political differences. Particularly powerful was an evening with longtime friends in Rosh Haayin, a Birmingham city Sister City. The adults were talking about the predicaments Israel faces in Gaza. Their three daughters 19, 16 and 12 sat listening, not saying a word. Finally, I asked them what they thought. The 16-year-old answered: Am Yisrael Chai! The People of Israel Live. Support matters Having worked for Birminghams Jewish community for decades and now a volunteer, I know that Birmingham and Alabama are incredibly supportive of Israel. Many see Israel as a valued ally, a Holy Land important to their faith, and a country to be admired for achievements. This support matters. Visiting a Biblical site along the Jordan River, important to Jews and Christians, a site where Christians go to be baptized, we talked to the pastor performing the baptisms. He had lived in Alabama and had been in Israel for four years. He told us how strong the country is and that more than ever Christians must stand with Israel. While we were in Israel, a delegation of 250 state legislators was scheduled to arrive, some from Alabama, for a visit hosted by the Israeli foreign ministry. Ties between Alabama and Israel are deep in 1943, Alabama was the first state to call for the restoration of Jewish sovereignty in the land of Israel and those ties continue to strengthen the country today. Christian support is so important to us especially in the wake of October 7, said our Israeli guide, Itai Tennenbaum, who has guided many Christians and Jews from Birmingham, as we talked at the site of the music festival where 378 civilians were murdered by Hamas. We are strong and resilient and this support makes us even stronger. As I finish this Comeback Town column the new Jewish year, which starts with Rosh Hashanah, has just begun. The beginning of the new year is marked by a powerful ten-day period of introspection, repentance and renewal culminating with Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement. As the year begins, I will be thinking about and thanking those Christian friends whove stepped forward since October 7. Ill end with a story about another one of those friends. This friend, well-known in Birminghams non-profit community, visited Israel with a Jewish group earlier this year. A true ally of the Jewish people, she was the only Christian in the group. During a visit to Yad Vashem, Israels memorial to the Holocaust, sirens warning of an incoming rocket from the Houthis started blaring. She, along with the others, rushed to a safer area of the building. The irony was not lost on her: While viewing an exhibit about an evil regime killing Jews, an evil regime was trying to kill Jews. The warning passed. My friend and her group finished viewing the exhibit and exited into the sunlight, standing on a steep hill. Before her was a breathtaking panorama of Jerusalem the ultimate symbol of the redemption of the Jewish people in their Biblical homeland, a life-celebrating response to the exhibit of death her group had just endured. Before her was an old-new city stretching to the horizon, sparkling against the brilliant blue sky, a city and a country coursing with resilience and strength. Before her were people powered by memory, with tears embedded in their hearts. Before her were the Jews. Lonely since October 7. But not alone. Richard Friedman is a journalist and retired executive director of the Birmingham Jewish Federation. David Sher is the founder and publisher of ComebackTown. Hes past Chairman of the Birmingham Regional Chamber of Commerce (BBA), Operation New Birmingham (REV Birmingham), and the City Action Partnership (CAP). Invite David to speak for free to your group about how we can have a more prosperous metro Birmingham. dsher@comebacktown.com In the Japanese art form Kintsugi, broken pottery is repaired in a way that doesn't hide the damage, but transforms it in an artistic way. For participants in Project Inspire, including the one who made this piece, it's a powerful metaphor for remaking lives shaped by trauma. (Bill Starling photo courtesy of USA Health) Courtesy of USA Health Rising Tides is an opinion column about Mobile. Todays guest columnist is Dr. Ashley Williams Hogue. When you work in trauma, you see a lot. But what stays with you is how young some of our patients are, especially those with firearm-related injuries. As a resident rotating through trauma surgery a decade ago, I was struck not just by how common gunshot wounds were, but by the ages of those who were brought to us for care. These were kids. As a trauma surgeon, I kept asking myself: If prevention is the best medicine for every other disease, why not for trauma? Why are we only stepping in after the damage is done? Dr. Ashley Williams Hogue is a trauma surgeon at USA Health and the founder and director of Project Inspire, a semester-long injury prevention program that offers education, exposure and mentorship to justice-involved youth. (Bill Starling photo courtesy of USA Health) Bill Starling/USA Health That question led to the creation of Project Inspire at USA Health University Hospital. Our goal in creating the program was to stop young people from becoming victims and/or perpetrators of gun violence and to do it in a way that works. We knew what didnt work. The scared straight model, trying to frighten kids into staying out of trouble, rarely leads to lasting change. What does work, again and again, is positive reinforcement. Empowerment, not fear. We built Project Inspire on the belief that when young people are equipped with resources, strong relationships, and a vision for their future, they can choose a different path. They can design the life they want. The heart of the program: Relationships At its core, Project Inspire is about connection. Our semester-long curriculum is built on five pillars: trauma-informed care and confidence building, education and professional development, financial literacy, entrepreneurship, and intensive mentorship. But the real engine is relationships. Participants are selected by probation officers and judges. They are ages 13-18 and have some sort of nonviolent firearm offense. Each student is paired with a mentor who knows them, shows up for them, and sticks with them, even after graduation. That consistency is vital. Many of our students have experienced trauma and instability, and we keep class sizes small no more than 10 so every student is seen and heard. Were lucky to have an incredible team of mentors, many of whom come from the same communities as our students. Their lived experience builds trust. They arent just visiting once a week; theyre deeply invested. Our team includes healthcare professionals and community leaders who pour their time, skills, and heart into the work. Im proud to say that we have just welcomed our ninth class of Project Inspire participants. Real outcomes Across the country, programs like this often struggle to demonstrate their impact. Project Inspire is different. The results speak for themselves: Recidivism : Nationally, 40% to 60% of youth in similar situations end up back in the system. Our rate is 20%. Gun-related recidivism : Even lower, at 10%. Injury rates: 8% of our students have returned to the hospital with a gunshot wound since completing the program. Some context on that last point: For youth whove been incarcerated, homicide is the leading cause of death and the overall mortality rate is 5.9 times higher than for the general population. A 25-year longitudinal cohort study found that youths involved with the juvenile justice system had up to 23 times the rate of firearm mortality as the general population; rates varied by sex, race and ethnicity, and age. Sixteen years after detention, more than one-quarter of Black and Hispanic males had been injured or killed by firearms. But beyond the numbers are the stories. Weve watched students walk in closed off, angry, or unsure, and leave with purpose and self-worth. Parents tell us they see more openness, better communication, and real hope. Building a support system Early on, we noticed many students didnt have family at graduation. So, we began building in family touchpoints throughout the semester. Now, almost every student has someone there to celebrate with them. We are also focusing on workforce readiness. Many of our students live in job deserts, with limited access to employment or transportation. We teach interview skills, connect them with internships, and help them navigate job opportunities. About 20% of students secure jobs during the program, and were working to expand that number. Growing beyond Mobile Since launching at USA Health, the health system of the University of South Alabama, Project Inspire has expanded beyond our original vision. Trauma centers in Mississippi, Nebraska, and Texas have started similar programs, with more on the way. We developed a full facilitator guide, training course, and student manual to help others replicate and adapt it in their communities. And we share everything freely no licensing fees, no gatekeeping just a shared mission to prevent violence and invest in young people. Getting involved Were grateful for the support of USA Health, the City of Mobile, Strickland Youth Center, local pastors, businesses, and volunteers. Community buy-in is what makes Project Inspire sustainable. Recently, our students voices were featured at the Arts for Justice exhibit at USA. They worked in the Japanese art of Kintsugi, in which broken bowls are repaired and remade as beautiful new vessels, as a way of sharing how theyre reshaping their lives. Photographs and words captured their thoughts on safety, home, and healing, while paintings by a local artist described their conversations with mentors and each other. It was very powerful. We know Project Inspire wont solve every problem. But it creates space for young people to feel safe, seen, and supported. It gives them the tools and the belief that they can build a different future. Even if were only reaching a few at a time, we hold onto this truth: If weve inspired one, weve inspired many. If youre reading this and want to help, we invite you to visit: www.southalabama.edu/inspire. There, you can donate, get involved, or connect with us, whether youre an employer, mentor, or someone who simply cares. Dr. Ashley Williams Hogue, a trauma surgeon at USA Health, is the founder and director of Project Inspire. She also serves as the director for the USA Health Center for Healthy Communities and as associate professor of surgery at the Frederick P. Whiddon College of Medicine at the University of South Alabama. Rising Tides is a column from AL.com exploring all things Mobile. Interested in writing a guest column? Or have a suggestion for a future topic? Email columnist Lawrence Specker at LSpecker@AL.com. US President Donald Trump and Melania Trump were caught in what appeared to be a tense exchange as Marine One touched down on the South Lawn of the White House on Wednesday evening. Footage showed the US President animatedly pointing his finger towards the First Lady while she shook her head, fuelling speculation of an argument after the couple's turbulent day at the United Nations General Assembly in New York. Lip readers, however, believe the moment was not a marital row but a reaction to the so-called 'escalator incident' at the UN, when the moving staircase abruptly halted as the couple stepped on it. Forensic lip reader Jeremy Freeman told the Daily Mail that Trump appeared to say the incident was 'unbelievable', while Melania responded, 'You just continued'. Another expert suggested Trump told his wife, 'I can't forgive them, they tried to hurt you', pointing to his claims of 'triple sabotage' involving the escalator, teleprompter and audio failures. Heres when the UN escalator stopped working the second Trump & Melania got to it (The teleprompter stopped right when he started his speech also) pic.twitter.com/fxmDetY3Yb The Tennessee Holler (@TheTNHoller) September 23, 2025 Despite the tense optics aboard Marine One, the pair were later seen walking hand in hand across the South Lawn. Trump, 79, has repeatedly alleged that UN staff attempted to endanger him and the First Lady, branding the escalator malfunction a 'sabotage'. The footage adds to a history of public moments where Melania has appeared reluctant beside her husband, though Wednesday's exchange, experts say, may have been less of a marital dispute and more of a political grievance. Originally published on IBTimes UK Samsung launched the Galaxy S25 FE as the fifth and final model in the Galaxy S25 series. The South Korean electronics giant has now started seeding the first software update for the Galaxy S25 FE, which brings changes to the Now Bar functionality. However, the new firmware doesnt bring any new significant features, apart from the latest Android security features and bug fixes. Samsung has quietly rolled out the first software update for the Galaxy S25 FE in markets across Asia and Europe. As per the official changelog, the Galaxy S25 FEs first update allows you to check stock prices without unlocking the device right in the Now Bar. After upgrading to the new firmware, stocks you follow on Google Finance with big price changes will appear on your Now Bar at the end of the trading day, as per the changelog. Samsung first offered the stock price updates in the Now Bar for the Galaxy Z Fold 7 users. Going by the Galaxy S25 FEs first update, Samsung will add the stock price updates in the Now Bar for other Galaxy devices in the coming weeks. September Android security patch and other changes in tow Additionally, the Galaxy S25 FEs first software upgrade updates the Android security patch to the September 2025 level. Your device will now have improved security and stability. With the latest security patch, Samsung has addressed more than 80 vulnerabilities across Android OS and One UI components. Furthermore, the new firmware improves stability and reliability. After the upgrade, the build number of the device changes to S731BXXU1AYIB. The size of the update is around 550MB, and Samsung has rolled it out in a gradual manner, so not all the Galaxy S25 FE units will get it right away. You can manually check for the update by going to Settings > Software update > Download and install. In case you are planning to buy the Galaxy S25 FE, read our ultimate buyers guide to know everything about the device. The phone is available at the starting price of $649.99 and comes in a range of attractive colorways: Ice Blue, Jet Black, Navy, and White. The Xiaomi 17 series has officially arrived in China, and this time, its safe to say that it is more than a flagship smartphone. Yes, it gets all the top-notch features such as Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 SoC, new camera layout with secondary screen, and much more. But whats turning heads is its 100W universal fast charging technology. Xiaomi brings new 100W universal fast charging tech For years, Chinese smartphone manufacturers have led the way in fast charging. Some devices have gone as far as to offer 120W fast charging. While the charging speeds are surely impressive, the main problem with the proprietary tech is that it only works with the companys official charging gadgets. The moment you switch to third-party adapters, charging speed starts to fall. Xiaomi is, however, rewriting the rules. With the Xiaomi 17 series, the company is offering 100W universal fast charging tech. It delivers power using USB PD PPS. This is the same charging tech used by Apple, Google, and Samsung. This means that Xiaomis newest phone wont require the official charger to supply 100W power input. Any PD PPS compatible charger with a power output rating of 100W or above can fuel it up blazing fast. This eliminates the need for multiple proprietary chargers and creates a simpler, eco-friendlier charging ecosystem. This move now puts pressure on Google, Apple, and Samsung Xiaomis recent move to adopt 100W universal fast charging tech with its Xiaomi 17 series hints at a broader industry change. It also sets a new benchmark for rivals like Google, Samsung, and Apple, which they cant ignore. Western and Korean tech giants have long been criticized for their sluggish charging speeds. But as Xiaomi introduces a faster USB PD PPS protocol, these brands are expected to make a move and finally switch to faster charging standards. While all dogs are beautiful in their own way, some pups have features that really make them stand out from others. It could be because of their coat's texture, their large ears, their spots, or their size. Some dogs even have extra stunning eyes that set them apart from other pets and captivate everyone who meets them. From icy blues to warm ambers, a dog's eyes can come in a rainbow of different shades. But a few lucky dogs have something really special. Instead of having two eyes that are one distinct color, they have different-colored eyes, a unique trait known as heterochromia. If you have a dog with heterochromia, then you have a rare gem indeed! Heterochromia comes in several different varieties, from multiple colors within the same iris to having one iris with a completely different color from the other. There's so much color, charm, and variation with heterochromia, and if you've adopted a new pup with this uniquely beautiful eye coloration, we've got more than 150 names for dogs with heterochromia to help you get inspired. Check them all out below! Great Names For Dogs With Heterochromia A brown Dachshund with heterochromia playing in the grass. You canand shouldget extra creative when thinking of names for a dog with heterochromia. Does your dog have one brown eye and one blue eye? Do they have bright green eyes with golden freckles? No matter what colors and what type of heterochromia your dog has, you can mix and match their unique traits to come up with great names for dogs with two different colored eyes. Dada Specter Poppy Disco Freckle Tie-Dye Sprinkle Azure Rose Charm Orchid Jazz Peepers Glimmer Rainbow Ocean Dream Fleck Sparkle Pixel Goldie Picasso Spark Sunburst Glitter Lily Dazzle Kaleidescope Domino Swirl Pastel Mystical Names For Dogs With Heterochromia A dark-haired dog with heterochromia. Heterochromia can make a dog's eyes look magical, so why not dip into the world of magic and mysticism for name ideas? We think these charming names will be just as spellbinding as your dog's unique eyes. Gandalf Cassandra Goetia Chakra Psyche Aura Tarot Zodiac Vision Mystic Morgan Hex Lilith Poppet Rasputin Circe Grimoire Medea Seance Ouija Akasha Juju Merlin Crowley Hecate Nostradamus Jinx Gemstone Names For Dogs With Different-Colored Eyes A beautiful Siberian Husky with complete heterochromia. The unique patterns and eye color combinations found in dogs with heterochromia can look reminiscent of gemstones. If you want a name that's as precious as your dog is to you, take a look at a few of these glittering jewels. Zircon Garnet Sapphire Pearl Topaz Cinnabar Emerald Coral Malachite Citrine Jasper Lapis Dolomite Quartz Heliotrope Chalcedony Amber Peridot Tourmaline Diamond Opal Aquamarine Obsidian Turquoise Moonstone Ruby Onyx Crystal Amethyst Jade Names Inspired By Celebrities with Heterochromia or Bi-Colored Eyes An Australian Shepherd with striking heterochromia. Lastly, if you're someone who prefers your pet to have a more traditionally "human" name, you can borrow a bit of inspiration from these celebrities, all of whom either have heterochromia or a similar condition that gives them the appearance of differently-colored eyes. Paris Jackson Demi Moore Elizabeth Berkley Tim McIlrath Max Scherzer Tim Roth Bill Pullman Jane Seymour Dominic Sherwood Kiefer Sutherland Dan Akroyd Alice Eve Benedict Cumberbatch Ralph Fiennes Kate Bosworth Henry Cavill Olivia Wilde Mila Kunis David Bowie Jonathan Rhys-Meyers Josh Henderson Jessica Cauffiel Wenworth Miller Gracie Allen Virginia Madsen Spacey Names For Dogs With Different-Colored Eyes An Alaskan Klee Kai puppy with complete heterochromia. From the star-flecked backdrop of space to galaxies and supernovas swirling with a rainbow of colors, the heavens above can provide endless name inspiration for dogs with different-colored eyes. Strap in and put your helmet on, because these spacey dog names are about to take you out of this world. Galaxy Ozone Sirius Taurus Andromeda Jupiter Cosmo Pluto Van Allen Saturn Aurora Neptune Zenith Luna Stella Nebula Antares Draco Halo Kuiper Ceres Eclipse Venus Gemini Nova Facts About Heterochromia A happy Border Collie with heterochromia lying in the green grass. What Are The Different Types Of Heterochromia? Heterochromia presents itself in three primary pattern types: Complete heterochromia (Heterochromia iridum): This is the most "extreme" type of heterochromia, where one iris is a completely different color than the other iris. Segmental, sectional, or partial heterochromia (Heterochromia iridis) : With this type, one part of the iris is a different color than the rest of it. Central heterochromia: With central heterochromia, the inner ring of the iris is a different color than the outer part of it. Is Heterochromia Harmful Or A Sign Of Something Dangerous? In most cases, no. Most of the time, heterochromia is caused by completely harmless genetic mutations that affect how the body produces, transports and stores melanin. However, sometimes heterochromia (or the appearance of heterochromia) can be caused by an acquired condition or eye injury. David Bowie, for example, had a permanently dilated pupil in his left eye caused by a fight in his youth, giving him the appearance of having differently colored eyes. What Type Of Dog Breeds Are Most Prone To Heterochromia? Though dogs of any breed can theoretically have heterochromia, several breeds are far more predisposed to having it than most others. According to PetCare, some of the dog breeds most highly predisposed to heterochromia include: Siberian Huskies Australian Shepherds Great Danes Dalmatians Australian Cattle Dogs Border Collies Catahoula Leopard Dogs This story was originally reported by PetHelpful on Sep 28, 2025, where it first appeared in the Dogs section. Add PetHelpful as a Preferred Source by clicking here. Labor inspiring Labour? Members of the UK cabinet listen to a speech by Australian PM Anthony Albanese If someone attending a Labour Party conference in the 1970s was moved by time machine to the one starting in Liverpool tomorrow, they might wonder if this was a conference of the same party. Much would be familiar but what would strike this hypothetical time traveller is the change in the class composition and flavour of the party. The Labour Party and its conference in the 1970s had a distinctive and very clear working class quality. As well as the dominating presence of organised labour in the shape of the trades unions, the membership was strongly working class. There were indeed many from a middle class background Harold Wilsons cabinet had several privately educated people among its leading figures but middle-class progressivism was a complementary flavour rather than the dominant one. All this has changed. Trades unions and other working class institutions such as the Co-operative movement are a much reduced presence. The meetings and activities are dominated by middle class professionals and their concerns and obsessions. This reflects wider political realities. Polling surveys done recently indicate that the Labour Party does better among those on higher incomes and in professional and middle class occupations and, above all, among the graduate class. Most strikingly, a recent poll showed the party trailing Reform by wide margins among the state school and grammar school educated but leading among those privately educated. This change, from a clearly working class party to a professional and middle class one, can be seen elsewhere, notably in Australia. There, the Labor Party has been one of the dominant forces in politics since Federation. For most of its history it was a proudly working class party, closely connected to organised labour and with many of its leading figures and membership from clearly working class backgrounds. This was still true as recently as the 1980s, under the leadership of Bob Hawke, who had a traditional organised labour background. The Australian Labor Party conference was the gathering of the elite or leadership of Australias working class. This started to change under Paul Keating, who replaced Hawke in 1991. Ever since then the ALP has become less connected to organised labour and less concerned with the concerns and interests of the working class this was one reason for their successive defeats at the hands of John Howard. Instead their focus is on questions such as climate change, aboriginal rights, environmentalism and migration. Just as in the UK there is a growing threat from organised Green politics, particularly in Sydney. What we can see in both the UK and Australia is a redefinition of the main Left-wing party, a gradual change in its identity. It has changed in terms of its membership and increasingly its voting base, from working class to white collar professional. Its central concerns have shifted, from economic issues to matters of personal identity and autonomy, environmentalism, and identity politics. Slowly but surely, in both countries the understood definition of Leftism has changed. There is a corresponding move on the Right which is now more plebeian and less middle or upper class (even if this has not reached the leadership as yet). In Australia, this has led to a split over issues like climate change, with the middle class and professional element of the Right abandoning the Liberals in many seats and voting for independents (the so-called Teals). A caveat to this is that the Labour Party here is trying to push back against this. There is an attempt to focus on the kinds of questions that concern working class voters and to develop a type of politics that has a more working class focus, not least to challenge the move of traditional Labour voters to Reform. This was a clear theme in the recent interview in the New Statesman by Andy Burnham, with the subtext that the current leadership was not succeeding in this. The current leadership is in fact the most working class it has been for a very long time, if we measure that by the background of the parents of MPs. However, that shows the problem that people like the PM or Burnham face. Although politicians like the PM have working class backgrounds they not seen as working class because they have gone to university and become professionals (Angela Rayner was the obvious exception). The old division between capital and labour, has been replaced by a new one that reflects peoples position in the globalised knowledge economy. This divides the employee class (and the business class) in a way that cuts across the older ones. To recreate working class politics will mean a shift to the left on economics but also a repudiation of what Left has come to mean for many, not least Party members. LTN in Tulsemere Road, West Dulwich. (Jeremy Selwyn) A local authority has failed to refund around 1.3million in fines to motorists who entered an unlawful low traffic neighbourhood scheme in south London. In June, Lambeth Council was ordered by the High Court to tear down the LTN in West Dulwich which banned out-of-town drivers. However, a Freedom of Information request revealed the total income generated from the scheme is 1,465,875.96, including income refunded and left for the refund. However, only 1,662 penalty charge notices worth 126,715 had been repaid by September 26. The West Dulwich Action Group brought a legal challenge and asked the court to stop plans for the LTN after it ignored legitimate concerns of residents that it would increase traffic and adversely affect air quality. A spokesman for WDAG told the Sunday Telegraph: Other councils, including Southwark and Hackney, have accepted responsibility and refunded motorists when their fines were ruled unlawful. Lambeths failure to do the same is unacceptable. At the very least, those motorists whose details are still on record should have already been repaid. Had Lambeth acted promptly when the judgment was issued, far more people would have had their money back by now. Almira Mohamed and fellow anti-LTN protesters from West Dulwich at the High Court (Ross Lydall) Instead, once again, we are forced to hold Lambeth to account. They repeatedly tell residents that schemes are imposed for our own good, but this handling of refunds shows quite the opposite. A spokesman for Labour-run Lambeth told the Standard: We continue to refund fines, and have set out a clear process that will remain open to anyone affected for the foreseeable future. Judge Tim Smith ruled in WDAGs favour saying the councils consultation process was lawful, though some elements could undoubtedly have been improved upon. He said that the way the council considered input from engagement with the public was unlawful. During a hearing earlier this year, the court was told that Lambeth workers were offered a wellbeing day after hostility and anger at a meeting over the proposed scheme. WDAGs lawyers described the meeting at West Norwood Library in April 2023 as a fiasco that lasted six hours, after which council workers were only able to record 21 responses because of the difficulties. A female cartel leader known as La Diabla, who allegedly sold newborn babies to U.S. couples for up to $13,000, has been arrested in Mexico. Martha Alicia Mendez Aguilar, was picked up in Juarez, Mexico, on September 2, according to the Office of the Director of National Intelligence. Aguilar was the ringleader of a baby trafficking operation that was affiliated with the powerful Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG), the department said. The Trump administration has vowed to crack down hard on cartels, even imposing harsh economic sanctions on Mexico to stymie the flow of fentanyl and other illicit products into the U.S. The CJNG has been one of its top targets. The operation run by Aguilar lured pregnant women to remote locations, performed illegal cesarean procedures, harvested the organs from the mothers bodies, and sold the newborns to couples in the U.S. A female cartel leader known as La Diabla who allegedly sold newborn babies to U.S. couples for up to $13,000 has been arrested in Mexico. Martha Alicia Mendez Aguilar, was picked up in Juarez, Mexico, on September 2 (National Counterterrorism Center) Newborns would be sold for up to 250,000 pesos, the equivalent of around $13,600. The arrest of Aguilar, whose nickname means the female Devil in Spanish, followed a joint operation by the National Counterterrorism Center and Mexican law enforcement. This is one example of what terrorist cartels will do to diversify their revenue streams and finance operations, said Joe Kent, NCTC Director. NCTC delivered critical intelligence on La Diablas location and developed comprehensive analysis that enabled U.S. and Mexican law enforcement partners to take action. I am proud of our teams ability to work with our forward deployed U.S. partners and Mexican law enforcement to stop these horrific acts. NCTC remains committed to disrupting all aspects of terrorist cartels and their operations. A Quinnipiac poll shows 10 percent of Republicans now disapprove of Trump, a first, though 86 percent still approve of his performance (Getty Images) And in this case, the lives of innocent women and children depended on it. The arrest was supported by the U.S. Marshals Service, the U.S. Department of States Diplomatic Security Service, the FBI, and U.S. Customs and Border Protection. It was carried out by Mexican law enforcement partners and Fiscalia Especializada en la Mujer (the Special Prosecutors Office for Women). U.S. Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard praised the arrest on X, writing: Exceptional work by our team at @ODNIgov National Counterterrorism Center who are working hard every day with our US interagency partners, law enforcement, and Mexican law enforcement to defeat cartels and keep the American people safe, secure and free. A small boat carrying people thought to be migrants near Gravelines in France (PA Wire) A child drowned in the English Channel after falling from an 'overcrowded' small boat on Sunday morning. The child's tragic death follows a similar incident yesterday in which two women died after falling from a boat. French prosecutors are now seeking to launch criminal proceedings against the people smuggling gangs responsible. Emergency services commander Jonathan Caruso said that 48 other migrants were rescued from the sea after falling from the same boat. Despite the number of casualties, the dingy is understood to have continued until reaching England, with around 50 people on board. The latest tragedy brings the death tally on small boat crossings this year to 21. The child's body was reported to have washed up on Ecault beach near Boulogne-sur-Mer. Some sources claimed the body was that of a young teenager but authorities have revealed no further details. Cecile Gressier, prosecutor in the French port town, said: "An investigation has been opened to determine the circumstances of the death. "The victim's age and nationality have not been determined." Boulogne prosecutors have launched a criminal enquiry into all deaths over the weekend, as a manhunt opens to track down the people smugglers. The number of migrants arriving in the UK is at a record for this point in the year since data on Channel crossings was first reported in 2018. Last year, 50 people died while trying to cross the Channel, according to incidents recorded by the French coastguard, in what is considered the deadliest year since the crisis unfolded. The International Organisation for Migration (IOM) has also reported several more migrant deaths believed to be linked to crossing attempts in 2024 and this year. A worker installs fixtures inside a train carriage at the Stadler Rail AG plant in Bussnang, Switzerland. Photograph: Bloomberg/Getty Images The EU steel industry, already reeling from Donald Trumps 50% tariffs on imports, is bracing itself for further damage after the US opened the possibility of a rolling list of derivative products that could be subject to tariffs including windows and doors with some metal. In August the US listed 407 product categories as derivative inclusions, ranging from wind turbines, mobile cranes and bulldozers to rail cars and furniture. But EU business leaders and a leading German MEP have raised concerns that the list will continue to grow ad hoc, adding further uncertainty and costs to an industry already rocked by the punitive tariffs, designed to stop Chinese imports, but affecting producers across Europe including the UK, where a 25% tariff applies. The US opened a new consultation on what products should be on the inclusions list on 15 September, with a deadline of 29 September. Related: Trump says US will impose new tariffs on heavy trucks, drugs and kitchen cabinets The EU steel industry said the consultation was clearly to expand, not to cut the list of products and was part of a wider intention to review the list three times a year. Luisa Santos, the deputy director general at BusinessEurope, the confederation of European industry organisations, said the relationship with the US was becoming quite turbulent because of the US ability to add products to tariff buckets. The problem now is that the US is making a strange interpretation of the deals, increasing the list of derivatives. It is not just with us; it is with everyone. It could be a motorbike that is now hit, or a table with a small bit of metal on it or window frames. The issue is if we still have a number of things that are not clear, if you have one side expanding through these lists of derivatives, it is very difficult to claim we have certainty. The UK government, which secured its lower steel tariff before a deal with the EU, has said it is seeking clarification from Washington about what extra steel products will be affected. Fearing another wave of redundancies in a sector already hit by overcapacity and cheap foreign imports, the Community trade union and British Steel said they wanted the UKs industrial sector to sign a pledge backing the countrys steel sector. With the industry facing unprecedented challenges, the pledge seeks to galvanise support for UK-made steel and reinforce the long-term resilience of the sector, its workforce, and the infrastructure it sustains, the two organisations said. Eurofer, the European steel trade representative body, said: The latest developments make even more evident the need for a strong new trade measure to preserve not only the viability of the EU steel sector but EU manufacturing as a whole, and the millions of quality jobs they sustain in Europe. Steel tariffs went up from a punitive 25% to 50% in June. It was part of Trumps attempt to revive the US industry but also to ringfence it not just against Chinese imports but also products that include steel, be they stainless steel sinks, kettles or cranes. The German MEP and chair of the European parliaments influential international trade committee, Bernd Lange, said the derivative list was already really harming a lot of industries including the motorcycles sector. He told how he had recently visited a motorcycle factory in Germany, where he learned the owners were unable to produce a definitive paper trail for the quantity of steel and aluminium used in their vehicles, down to nuts and bolts that could have an element of Chinese steel in them. Under the rules the tariffs are payable on the value of their steel and aluminium content. They know they are between 30% and 50% but because they are unsure, they declare 50% because otherwise they are in danger of getting tariffs of 200%, Lange said in reference to customs penalties for non-declaration of all goods subject to duties. He told MEPs that the new tariff regime and the prospect of the inclusions of products expanding meant it was not easy to explain to the workers that the EU-US deal was a good one. The best public interest journalism relies on first-hand accounts from people in the know. If you have something to share on this subject you can contact the Business team confidentially using the following methods. Secure Messaging in the Guardian app The Guardian app has a tool to send tips about stories. Messages are end to end encrypted and concealed within the routine activity that every Guardian mobile app performs. This prevents an observer from knowing that you are communicating with us at all, let alone what is being said. If you don't already have the Guardian app, download it (iOS/Android) and go to the menu. Scroll down and click on Secure Messaging. When asked who you wish to contact please select the Guardian Business team. SecureDrop, instant messengers, email, telephone and post If you can safely use the tor network without being observed or monitored you can send messages and documents to the Guardian via our SecureDrop platform. Finally, our guide at theguardian.com/tips lists several ways to contact us securely, and discusses the pros and cons of each. An Israeli artillery unit fires towards Gaza on Sunday, the day before Benjamin Netanyahu meets Donald Trump in Washington - Amir Cohen/Reuters Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he would grant amnesty for Hamas if it releases the remaining hostages and are willing to leave Gaza. Mr Netanyahu has previously said that crushing Hamas in its entirety, including its leaders, was the only outcome that would end the war in Gaza. However, on Sunday he appeared to confirm leaked details of a peace plan drawn up by the United States president Donald Trump, stating that Hamas could receive immunity. If Hamas leaders, for example, are escorted out of the country, yeah, if they finish the war, release all the hostages, well let them out, he told Fox News. All of that, I think, is part of the plan. Im not going to pre-empt it, because were having these discussions exactly right now. Plans leaked to Arab media on Sunday said Mr Trump would be willing to give Hamas leaders safe passage out of Gaza if the 48 hostages being held in the Strip are released within 48 hours of Israel publicly accepting the deal. In return, Israel would free several hundred Palestinian security prisoners serving life sentences and more than 1,000 Gazans arrested since the start of the war, along with the bodies of several hundred Palestinians, according to the Times of Israels read-out of the plan. Hamas members who commit to peaceful coexistence will be granted amnesty while members who wish to leave the Strip will be granted safe passage to receiving countries, the plan says. Hamas members who commit to peaceful coexistence will be granted amnesty in any post-war state - Majdi Fathi/Getty Arab leaders have been furious over Israels relentless bombardment of the Gaza Strip, which has killed more than 65,000 people and was deemed a genocide by the UN, and by its recent strikes on Qatar. The strikes earlier this month, which Israel says were aimed at Hamas leaders living there, risk imperilling the USs goal of normalising relations between Arab countries and Israel. Under Mr Trumps 21-point plan, Israel would agree not to carry out further strikes in Qatar given the Arab countrys important mediating role in the Gaza conflict. Addressing attacks on Qatar, Mr Netanyahu told Fox: These things, again, will be worked out because our goal was Hamas, not anything beyond it. I think we can work out an understanding on this. Mr Netanyahus comments appear to be a departure from the fiery rhetoric he deployed in the wake of the attacks earlier this month. The strike didnt fail because it had one central message, and we considered it before we launched it. That is, you can hide, you can run, but well get you, Mr Netanyahu said during a press conference with US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, when asked about the attack in Doha. They think they enjoy immunity, theyll do it again and again and again, and if you deny them that immunity, theyll think twice, he added. The US proposal involves installing a transitional government to rebuild Gaza - Anadolu/Getty The Trump peace plan also calls for Gaza to be de-radicalised, redeveloped for the benefit of its people, and for its residents to be allowed to stay in the enclave if they wish. No one will be forced to leave Gaza, but those who choose to leave will be allowed to return. Moreover, Gazans will be encouraged to remain in the Strip and offered an opportunity to build a better future there, the plan states. Israel will also agree to the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) halting all operations and gradually withdrawing from the Strip, a step Mr Netanyahu has also repeatedly opposed in the past two years. Instead his government had decided on a plan to occupy Gaza, which the plan directly contradicts, as it states that Israel will not occupy or annex Gaza, and the IDF will gradually hand over territory it currently occupies, as the replacement security forces establish control and stability in the Strip. Should Israel and Hamas agree to the plan, it would also mean the terror group having no role in Gazas governance while the US would work with Arab and other international partners to develop a temporary international stabilisation force that will immediately deploy in Gaza to oversee security in the Strip. The force will also develop and train a Palestinian police force, which will serve as a long-term internal security body. Proposal to create pathway to statehood As for who will rule Gaza the day after the war, the plan states that the enclave will be administered by a temporary, transitional government of Palestinian technocrats who will be responsible for providing day-to-day services for the people of the Strip. It is unclear if former British prime minister Sir Tony Blairs plan is intertwined with Mr Trumps. Sir Tonys plan, in which he would head a transitional body, reportedly has the backing of the US administration. Mr Trumps plan also calls for the Palestinian Authority to be reformed, and proposes seeking a credible pathway to Palestinian statehood, which is recognised as the aspiration of the Palestinian people. Mr Netanyahu is due to meet Mr Trump at the White House on Monday, when the administration plans to present the plans to end the war. Asked if he plans to declare support for the plan on Monday, Mr Netanyahu told Fox News: Were working with President Trumps team, actually, as we speak, and I hope we can make it a go because we want to free our hostages, we want to get rid of Hamas rule and have them disarmed, Gaza demilitarised and a new future set up for for Gazans and Israelis alike. Chinese brands poised to accelerate Europe's EV transition: Turin Auto Show chief Xinhua) 09:17, September 28, 2025 Visitors view an exhibit car of M-HERO under Chinese automaker Dongfeng during the 2025 Turin Auto Show in Turin, Italy, Sept. 26, 2025. (Xinhua/Li Jing) Seventeen Chinese automakers brought new models to Turin this year - about one-third of all exhibitors - Levy noted that BYD, Denza, Dongfeng and JAC were among them, with several brands making their Italian debut. TURIN, Italy, Sept. 27 (Xinhua) -- China's automobile manufacturers are rapidly becoming an important driving force in Europe's auto industry, bringing fresh design ideas, competitive electric-vehicle technology and growing market presence to the continent, Andrea Levy, president of Turin Auto Show, told Xinhua in a recent interview. Held across open city blocks in the northern Italian city, the 2025 Turin Auto Show blends Italy's long-standing design tradition with an increasingly international exhibitor list. This year the show unveiled the Turin Automotive Design Award for the first time, a professional prize established with European official backing to promote cooperation between Chinese and European automakers. A visitor looks at an exhibit car of JAC E30X during the 2025 Turin Auto Show in Turin, Italy, Sept. 26, 2025. (Xinhua/Li Jing) An independent international jury made up of nine leading Italian automotive design and R&D institutes selected winners that included Chinese marques such as Changan, JAC, Geely and Jetour, Levy said, praising the awards as recognition of China's rising design capabilities and a step toward closer Sino-Italian industrial ties. Seventeen Chinese automakers brought new models to Turin this year - about one-third of all exhibitors - Levy noted that BYD, Denza, Dongfeng and JAC were among them, with several brands making their Italian debut. "For example, BYD presented its premium Denza brand, Dongfeng launched a new sub-brand, and Zeekr exhibited its models," he said, noting that Chinese high-performance electric models - like the Zeekr 001 FR with its 800-horsepower output - have showcased the technical capabilities of these brands to Italian audiences. The show is expected to attract some 500,000 visitors, Levy added. "Taking part in international motor shows is very important for Chinese brands. Many European consumers have been unfamiliar with Chinese cars, but here they can see the design and technical strength with their own eyes." Representatives of Changan Deepal S07 receive the Best Exterior Design award of the Turin Automotive Design Award (TADA) during the 2025 Turin Auto Show in Turin, Italy, Sept. 26, 2025. (Xinhua/Li Jing) Levy believes Chinese manufacturers are well positioned to accelerate Europe's shift from internal-combustion engines to electrification. He said that Italy's adoption of pure electric vehicles has lagged behind other European countries. He estimated EVs make up roughly 5 percent of Italy's market, compared with more than 10 percent in Germany and France and over 50 percent in Norway, and said that China's combination of advanced battery and charging technologies, plus attractive pricing, gives Chinese automakers significant potential. "Chinese cars are technologically advanced, support very fast charging and are competitively priced," Levy said. "Some Chinese models already support ultra-fast 400-kilowatt charging, allowing a recharge in about 15 minutes - an experience that is new for many Italian consumers." He argued that such strengths will help European buyers transition from fuel vehicles to electric models more quickly. Visitors pass by an exhibit car of Changan Deepal S05 during the 2025 Turin Auto Show in Turin, Italy, Sept. 26, 2025. (Xinhua/Li Jing) On how Chinese manufacturers can deepen their presence in Europe, Levy emphasized visibility and hands-on experience. "European consumers tend to have long-standing trust in traditional local brands. Chinese marques lack that historical familiarity. But if consumers can test-drive these cars and the media cover them, perceptions will change - because the cars perform well, are well designed and are reasonably priced." Levy also highlighted the natural complementarity between the two countries. Italy's global renown in car design - the home of masters such as Pininfarina and Giorgetto Giugiaro - and its logistics networks offer entry points for Chinese manufacturers. "Many Chinese firms have already set up design centers in Turin to develop global models; Changan is one example," he said. "Italy is not only a design hub in Europe, it is also an important gateway. Vehicles arriving through Italian ports can be distributed across Europe, and Italian logistics companies can help build a continent-wide sales network." Visitors view exhibit cars of Chinese automaker Dongfeng during the 2025 Turin Auto Show in Turin, Italy, Sept. 26, 2025. (Xinhua/Li Jing) Describing cooperation as mutually beneficial, Levy said Italy's expertise in high-performance vehicle design can be coupled with China's extensive experience in batteries and electrification. "Such cooperation can teach Italy more about electric-vehicle technology while helping Chinese automakers establish themselves in Europe," he said. Looking ahead, the Turin Auto Show plans to go beyond vehicle displays and to build concrete industry linkages. "In 2026 we plan to create a dedicated section within the show to facilitate China-Italy and broader China-Europe automotive cooperation, providing matchmaking opportunities and helping firms establish new commercial contacts," Levy said. Visitors view exhibit cars during the 2025 Turin Auto Show in Turin, Italy, Sept. 26, 2025. (Xinhua/Li Jing) Concluding the interview, Levy expressed admiration for the pace and scale of China's auto industry development. "Chinese cars are not only technologically advanced and attractively designed, they are becoming an integral part of the global automotive industry. The Turin Auto Show is willing to act as an important bridge for Chinese brands entering Europe, he said. "We welcome more Chinese automakers to exhibit." (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) Tripoli, Libya (PANA) - The Political Working Group of the International Follow-up Committee on Libya of the Berlin Process met on Thursday in a plenary session at the Ambassadors level to discuss the political roadmap UN Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) announced to the Security Council on 21 August This article first appeared on our partner site, Independent Arabia Israel has launched a campaign to target multistorey buildings in Gaza, a territory that has already lost much of its urban landscape and where civilian life is reduced to rubble. The residential Mushta Tower was demolished, Mecca Tower was threatened, and all high-rise buildings seem to await similar fates. The destruction of these residential towers carries longstanding political, military and civil implications. While the inhabitants of Mushta Tower were going about their daily lives, Israeli military officers contacted one resident and ordered the evacuation of the 55-metre, 16-storey building, which housed more than 80 apartments that were home to some 400 people. Located in western Gaza City with a view of the sea, Mushta Tower was one of the most prominent architectural landmarks in the territorys largest urban complex. It housed restaurants, shops, offices, company headquarters and residential units, and was surrounded by the expansive Al-Kateeba Square. During the current conflict, the Israeli army had already destroyed the buildings upper floors, a move it says it took to prevent the detection and surveillance of its soldiers from a high vantage point. When displaced residents returned to Gaza City, the partially destroyed tower became a temporary shelter for families whose homes had been destroyed, forming the site of the largest tent city in the area, hosting over 2,500 families. Displaced Palestinians salvage items from the rubble of the Al-Ghafari tower after it was destroyed in Israeli strikes in Gaza City (AFP/Getty) Just hours after the warning was issued, Israeli warplanes struck the tower with four air-to-ground bombs, reducing the entire structure to rubble. Residents, along with the displaced families living nearby, were left homeless on the streets. Gazas urban landscape The demolition of Mushta Tower is just the beginning of Israels next operation in Gaza, as the army has announced a campaign to target multistorey buildings in central Gaza City. Israeli military spokesperson Ivi Devirin claimed that the strikes on taller buildings came after Hamas allegedly converted them into military infrastructure. Gaza does not have true high-rise towers or skyscrapers in the conventional sense. Israel restricts the construction of large buildings in the territory, arguing that such structures could expose its own territory and pose a security risk. Nevertheless, Gaza is home to multistorey buildings of varying heights, the tallest of which has only 16 floors. Each floor typically houses four to six residential units. According to the Palestinian Central Bureau of Statistics, Gaza City alone has 1,540 multistorey residential buildings, locally referred to as towers. Over the course of the 23-month-long war, Israel has destroyed a significant number of these buildings. However, the exact number of towers demolished remains unknown, as housing ministry teams are unable to conduct comprehensive surveys. What parts of Gaza are still habitable? During the first and second phases of the Israeli war on Gaza, the military focused on dismantling Hamass capabilities, destroying numerous buildings in the process. However, in the third phase of fighting, Israel has shifted its efforts towards systematically bombing and demolishing residential buildings. Geographically, Israel has completely destroyed the northern Gaza Strip including Beit Hanoun, Beit Lahia and Jabalia. They left no buildings standing and destroyed all infrastructure, leaving the north uninhabitable. The army also completely devastated the southern city of Rafah and destroyed nearly 70 per cent of nearby Khan Younis. Currently, only two areas remain with a small number of buildings intact: Deir al-Balah and parts of central Gaza City. As a result, the territorys 2.3 million residents are all crowded into the narrow confines of these two areas. People search the mound of rubble at the site of the destroyed Sussi Tower in Gaza City (AFP/Getty) Aware of what remains, Israel launched Operation Gideons Chariots 2, targeting Gaza City and Deir al-Balah. Defence Minister Yisrael Katz threatened that Israel would turn the whole of Gaza into a heap of rubble as they had done with Rafah and Beit Hanoun. He said: The gates of hell are now open on Gaza. Our fighter jets are conducting intensive strikes targeting residential towers in the city. The hell will not end until Hamas accepts our terms to end the war; otherwise, the city will be completely destroyed. Much of Gaza City was already destroyed during Operation Gideons Chariots, and the preparatory phase for the citys occupation. Eastern neighbourhoods including Shujaiyya, Zeitoun, Sabra, Tuffah, the Old City, Al-Daraj and Sheikh Radwan were levelled. These neighbourhoods account for 40 per cent of the citys total area. What remains of the territorys largest urban complex are neighbourhoods in western Gaza City, such as Tel al-Hawa, Al-Rimal, Al-Jalaa, Al-Nasr and Al-Shati, where residential towers and multistorey buildings are concentrated. The few other surviving areas are in Deir al-Balah Governorate, which encompasses Deir al-Balah, Al-Nuseirat, Al-Maghazi, Al-Bureij and Al-Zawayda. Targeting multistoreys is a longstanding approach Despite the widespread destruction, some of Gazas architectural landmarks remain, along with a small number of residential towers and multistorey buildings that the Israeli army has not yet demolished. All of these structures now face the threat of complete destruction. The policy of hitting towers is not new; Israel first adopted it in 2014. At that time, the approach was partial, but it has since evolved into a comprehensive and sustained strategy during the current war. Speaking to Independent Arabia, political science professor Mansour Abu Karim explains: Israel believes that targeting towers increases military pressure on armed factions and sometimes compels them to make concessions in mediator-led negotiations to halt the fighting. Smoke billows near tents sheltering displaced Palestinians after Israeli bombardment of Al-Ruya Tower in Gaza City (AFP via Getty) He adds: The demolition of multistorey buildings in 2014 served as a powerful leverage against Hamas and other factions. Towers represented the final phases of that war. At the time, Mousa Abu Marzouk, a member of Hamass political bureau, called on the Palestinian president Mahmoud Abbas to intervene, leading to a ceasefire based on the agreements of the 2012 war. Prof Abu Karim continues: Israel will continue its policy of targeting residential towers. The current phase of the Gaza war focuses primarily on destroying these buildings, a strategy that could push Hamas into making significant concessions. What does this mean for Gazas residents? The destruction of residential towers carries significant social repercussions. Hikmat Youssef, a Gaza resident, spoke about the impact of the demolition of residential towers on the Palestinian community and said: Bombing the towers is not merely a military act it is a horrifying message aimed at breaking the will of an entire people, destroying life, uprooting their sense of security, and instilling fear in every child, woman and elderly person. Israel is not targeting stone; it is targeting the meaning of belonging. The aim is to dismantle community bonds and strip people from their roots, making them strangers in their own land or refugees into nothingness. Tel Aviv wants Gazans to wake up each day asking, Where will we die today? rather than, How will we live? Rajai, another Gaza resident, adds: The destruction of high-rise buildings in Gaza primarily seeks to terrorise civilians and forcibly drive them to flee. This effect is amplified when displaced families tents are located near these towers, making the scene of devastation an additional factor in breaking morale and heightening fear of death. Meanwhile, Khalil explains: Israel does not stop at demolishing homes in neighbourhoods and camps; it insists on destroying towers that are prominent landmarks in the citys memory and identity. Before the war, these towers symbolised Gazas relative urban development. Now, they stand as witnesses to a systematic erasure of everything that connects the place to its past and present. The demolition of high-rises also has political dimensions. Political analyst Rafiq Hani says: Residential towers have become symbols of a new approach in this bloody war, based on the systematic destruction of all elements of life. Bringing down tower after tower reflects not only Israels determination to expand the scope of destruction but also a deeper strategy aimed at emptying the city of its residents and pre-empting any potential political settlement. Displaced Palestinians flee northern Gaza after Israeli forces ordered residents of Gaza City to move south earlier this month (Reuters) He adds: The armys targeting of residential towers serves multiple objectives, the most prominent of which is to make the Gaza Strip uninhabitable after the war. These towers are the only structures alleviating the territorys extreme population density. [Gaza is] arguably the most densely populated area in the world. Their destruction will intensify the demographic pressure Gaza already suffers. Mr Hani concludes that Israels aim in this destruction is to pave the way for displacement, reminiscent of 1948, when terror was used to uproot hundreds of thousands of Palestinians. The current objective is to force mass displacement and leave people with no prospect of return or reconstruction. Conflicting narratives From a military standpoint, security expert Wasif Arikat tells Independent Arabia: Residential towers represent a strategic target for Israel in its operations, as they provide elevated positions that armed factions could exploit to carry out attacks. Palestinian Civil Defence spokesperson Mahmoud Basal, however, accuses Israel of implementing a systematic policy of forced displacement, targeting high-rise buildings. He explains: This is not just bombing stone it is a policy of forcible eviction, leaving entire families exposed and homeless, with no safe spaces. These concerns were echoed by United Nations spokesperson Stephane Dujarric, who said: Gaza City, long associated in the collective consciousness with its seaside views and iconic towers that defined its modern skyline, now appears featureless. These developments are forcing increasing numbers of people to flee into areas already densely occupied by displaced populations. Israels military, however, has a different story. Army spokesperson Avichay Adraee says: Multistorey buildings have been converted into military infrastructure by Hamas. We will target these buildings in the coming days as a prelude to expanding operations in Gaza City. He adds: We have observed intensive armed activity by Hamas in Gaza City, particularly in high-rise towers. The group has integrated intelligence capabilities, sniper positions and rocket launch sites, and established control centres within the towers. Mr Adraee adds: Israel adheres to the rules of war. All measures are taken to avoid civilian casualties, including advance warnings to residents, precision munitions, aerial reconnaissance and intelligence-gathering. Hamas, accused of using the buildings for military purposes, denies the claims. Izzat al-Rishq, a member of its political bureau, says: Attempts to justify targeting residential towers in Gaza are flimsy pretexts and lies. We do not use civilian infrastructure for military purposes. Israel continues a policy of extermination and widespread destruction across the territory. Translated by Dalia Mohamed; Reviewed by Tooba Khokhar and Celine Assaf George Galloway said officers stopped him for no reason at all other than to gain access to our communications - Anthony Devlin/Getty Images George Galloway has claimed counter-terror police held him for nine hours at Gatwick airport, confiscating his phone and laptop. The 71-year-old former MP said officers had stopped him for no reason at all other than to gain access to our communications before he was released without charge. Mr Galloway and his wife Putri Gayatri Pertiwi were allowed on their way after being stopped on Saturday under the terrorism Act, the Metropolitan Police said. Reports said the couple had returned to the UK from Moscow via Abu Dhabi. In an introduction to his Mother Of All Talk Shows internet show, Mr Galloway said officers had questioned him about his views on Russia and China. Speaking on Sundays edition, he said: Not a single effort was made to show cause for having detained me and her with armed officers in public in an English airport. If they can arrest me under the terrorism act at an English airport, what hope have you got? Reports said George Galloway and his wife Putri Gayatri Pertiw were returning from Moscow via Abu Dhabi when they were stopped - x.com/georgegalloway He said police questions ranged far and wide, right down to Gayatris famous fingernail painted in the Palestinian colours. Theyre too stupid to be anti-terrorism police, theyre too stupid to be in MI5 if they think they can intimidate me. Not even death will intimidate me. There is only one reason why they detained us there under that legislation. It was to gain access to our communications, to confiscate phones, to confiscate laptops, and to enter and burgle and see what they can do with our private communications. Its come to something when a man like me, a man with the profile that I have, can be stopped by armed policemen at an English airport. Mr Galloway, who has repeatedly criticised British and American foreign policy, said he had travelled to the UK to give a speech in London at an event to be attended by the Chinese ambassador. Held together with my wife for nine hours, he said. Missing the engagement that I had come to London to perform, and having to make that weary journey back on the train with no phones, with no laptop, incommunicado, unable to speak with any of our family, any of our comrades, any of our friends, or any of our legal representatives. The Met said in a statement on Saturday: We can confirm that, on Saturday Sept 27, counter-terrorism officers at Gatwick Airport stopped a man in his 70s and a woman in her 40s under Schedule 3 of the Counter-Terrorism and Border Security Act 2019. Neither of them were arrested, and they were allowed on their way. The Act gives police, immigration and customs officers the power to stop people to find out if they are engaged in hostile activities that threaten national security or the economic well-being of the UK. Mr Galloway, the Workers Party of Britain leader, lost his Rochdale seat at last years general election just months after having won it in a shock by-election result. Greta Thunberg has hit back at claims that the flotilla of Gaza-bound humanitarian aid ships she is on is a publicity stunt. The Swedish activist is one of over 500 volunteers aboard the flotilla aiming to deliver medical supplies and food to the population of Gaza, who are experiencing widespread hunger due to an Israeli naval blockade. Israeli authorities have characterised the Global Sumud Flotilla as a publicity stunt a claim activists on board deny. Asked in an interview with Laura Kuenssberg on the BBC about the accusations, Ms Thunberg said: First of all I dont think anyone would risk their lives for a publicity stunt. Second of all, if you think its a publicity stunt, have you asked people in Gaza if they consider this a publicity stunt? She added: I repeat, this mission should not have to exist, we do not want to be doing this, but we have to keep trying, right? The Swedish activist is one of over 500 volunteers aboard the flotilla aiming to deliver medical supplies and food to the population of Gaza (AP) If we just thought to ourselves, Well, Im just one person I cant make a difference then almost no one would have rights by now. The Global Sumud Flotilla describes itself as a multinational civilian effort to break Israels illegal siege of Gaza. It is made up of more than 500 volunteers, including doctors, lawyers, politicians and activists. They say the flotilla is the largest attempt to date to break Israels maritime blockade of the Gaza Strip, which has now lasted 18 years. Israel says the blockade is needed to prevent Hamas from importing arms, but critics consider it collective punishment. Volunteers say the flotilla is the largest attempt to date to break Israels maritime blockade of the Gaza Strip (Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved) The Israeli foreign ministry has proposed that the activists unload their aid in the Israeli port of Ashkelon for it to be transported into Gaza and said it would not allow the breach of a lawful naval blockade. Earlier this week, activists on board said multiple drones had targeted the flotilla in the waters south of Crete. It said several of its boats were met by swarms of drones circling overhead on Wednesday. Earlier this week, activists said multiple drones had targeted the flotilla in the waters south of Crete (Reuters) A vessel was also sprayed with unidentified chemicals, sound-bombs and explosive flares and had their communications jammed, according to the crew. The team reported hearing 15 to 16 drones and 13 explosions on or around several boats. The flotilla has reported several attacks since it set sail from Spain on 1 September, including two while some of its boats were in Tunisian waters. In response to the most recent attacks, Italy and Spain said they were sending military ships to provide assistance and possible rescues if needed. Flames and smoke rise from the church after the shooting in Grand Blanc, Michigan At least four people have been killed and several injured after a gunman opened fire in a Mormon church on Sunday morning. A 40-year-old man rammed his pick-up truck into the church in Grand Blanc, Michigan, before firing an assault rifle at worshippers, William Renye, the towns police chief, said. Mr Renye identified the suspected gunman as Thomas Jacob Sanford from Burton, Michigan. Mr Sanford was killed by a police officer after shooting at least 10 people. Mr Renye said that he believes we will find additional victims once we have that scene secure. The shooting happened at 10:25am when the church was delivering its Sunday service, he said. Police were on the scene within 30 seconds of receiving reports of the shooting, Mr Renye told a press conference. The gunman was neutralised at 10:33am in the church car park. Police also believe the suspect set fire to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS). This was extinguished. Pictures showed a silver vehicle with American flags attached rammed into the churchs red-brick wall. A 40-year-old man rammed his pick-up truck into the church before firing at worshippers - Lukas Katilius/The Flint Journal Police are also said to have found several improvised explosive devices on the church grounds, which were being investigated by a bomb squad. Mr Sanford was a US Marine veteran, who served in Iraq from 2004-2008, the New York Post reported, citing his mothers Facebook page. Paul Kirby, who was among the hundreds of worshippers gathered inside the church when the gunman went on his rampage, said he heard what sounded like an explosion outside. Mr Kirby, 38, told the New York Times that when he went to help he saw a man around 20 yards away from him getting out of his truck who began firing at people. A bullet went through the glass door next to him and his leg was struck by a piece of shrapnel. He said he was the scaredest Ive ever been. Police are reportedly investigating whether the shooting was linked to the death of Russel M Nelson, the president of the LDS. Mr Nelson, who became the leader of the church in 2018, died on Saturday night, aged 101. Neighbours look on as emergency services respond to the shooting and fire - Emily Elconin/Getty Images Donald Trump said he had been briefed on the horrendous shooting and the FBI will lead the investigation into the attack. The suspect is dead, but there is still a lot to learn. This appears to be yet another targeted attack on Christians in the United States of America, Mr Trump wrote on Truth Social. He added: The Trump Administration will keep the Public posted, as we always do. In the meantime, PRAY for the victims, and their families. This epidemic of violence in our country must end, immediately! Doug Andersen, spokesman for the LDS, said multiple individuals were injured in a tragic act of violence. The Church is in communication with local law enforcement as the investigation continues and as we receive updates on the condition of those affected, he said. He added: Places of worship are meant to be sanctuaries of peacemaking, prayer and connection. We pray for peace and healing for all involved. Sundays attack marks the second mass shooting in a church in the US in as many months. In August, gunman Robin Westman opened fire at a church at a Catholic school in Minneapolis, killing children Harper Moyski, 10, and Fletcher Merkel, eight, and injuring 21 others. An Israeli airstrike hits a tower block in Gaza City on Sunday Photograph: Mohammed Saber/EPA Israel has pressed on with its offensive in Gaza as Donald Trump claimed again to be on the brink of a breakthrough in negotiations for a ceasefire in the devastated territory. Witnesses and medics said Israeli tanks were advancing through central and western neighbourhoods of Gaza City towards crowded coastal areas where hundreds of thousands of people are sheltering. The Israeli military launched a long-threatened ground offensive in the north of Gaza 12 days ago after weeks of intensifying strikes on Gaza City, the biggest urban centre not under its control. Hundreds of thousands of Palestinians have complied with repeated orders to evacuate but many others have been unable to flee, often because they are ill, disabled, too frail or unable to afford expensive transport to safer areas. The Israel military said the air force had struck 140 military targets across Gaza in the last 24 hours, including militants and what it described as military infrastructure. At least five people were killed in an airstrike in the Nasser area of Gaza City, local health authorities said. Medics reported 16 more deaths in strikes on homes in central Gaza, bringing Sundays death toll to at least 21. The Gaza health ministry said later that Israeli fire had killed at least 77 people in the previous 24 hours. Hamass armed wing urged the Israeli military to halt airstrikes temporarily and withdraw from part of Gaza City on Sunday to allow it to locate two Israeli hostages it said it had lost contact with there. The lives of the two prisoners are in real danger and [Israeli] forces must immediately withdraw and halt aerial operations for 24 hours to allow attempts to rescue the prisoners, the Ezzedine Al-Qassam Brigades said in a statement. There was no immediate response from Israel, where Hamas has previously been accused of exploiting the hostages to wage psychological warfare. The Israeli prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, who is visiting the White House on Monday, told Fox News Sunday that Israel was working on a new ceasefire plan with the White House. Were working on it, he said. Its not been finalized yet, but were working with President Trumps team, actually as we speak, and I hope we can we can make it a go. Trump said in a post on his Truth Social platform on Sunday: We have a real chance for GREATNESS IN THE MIDDLE EAST, ALL ARE ON BOARD FOR SOMETHING SPECIAL, FIRST TIME EVER. WE WILL GET IT DONE!!! He promised at the start of his second term in office a quick end to the war but eight months later a resolution remains elusive. Speaking at the UN on Friday, Netanyahu vowed to finish the job against Hamas, days after Britain, France and other western powers recognised a state of Palestine. Trump has floated a 21-point proposal for an immediate ceasefire that includes the release of all hostages within 48 hours, the disarmament of Hamas, freedom for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails and a gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, according to news reports in the US and Israel. A Hamas official said the group had been briefed on the plan but had yet to receive an official offer from Egyptian and Qatari mediators. Israel is likely to come under new international pressure in the coming days as an international aid flotilla nears its territorial waters. The flotilla stopped for several days in Greek waters for repairs but set sail on Sunday for Gaza, where activists including Greta Thunberg intend to challenge Israels naval blockade and deliver aid to the Palestinian territory. On Sunday Italys foreign minister, Antonio Tajani,repeated a proposal made last week for the flotilla to take the aid to Cyprus for eventual distribution in Gaza by the Roman Catholic church. The flotilla, which was struck in international waters off Crete on Wednesday by drones armed with stun grenades and irritants, rejected the suggestion. Israel has previously said it will use any means to prevent the boats from reaching Gaza. The war in Gaza was triggered by Hamass 7 October 2023 incursion into Israel during which militants killed 1,219 people, mostly civilians. Of the 251 people abducted during the attack, 47 are still held in Gaza, including 25 whom the Israeli military says are dead. The ensuing Israeli offensive in Gaza has killed more than 66,000 people, mostly civilians, and injured more than 160,000. Much of the territory has been reduced to rubble and famine has been declared in parts of its some northern areas. In the occupied West Bank on Sunday, Israeli security forces shot dead an alleged attacker in a car-ramming incident in which an Israeli man was seriously injured at a junction near Nablus. Hamas praised the attack. Violence has surged in the West Bank, which alongside Gaza and East Jerusalem was captured by Israel in the six-day war in 1967 and which the Palestinians want as their future state. Credit: Reuters Four people were killed in a 12-hour overnight Russian bombardment of Kyiv that left a quiet residential street flattened. Photographs of the aftermath showed a rubble-strewn road with the roofs of several homes caved in and cars buried in debris. There has been no official confirmation of the location of the strike, but local media said it happened in the capitals western district of Borshchahivka. The south-eastern city of Zaporizhzhia was also badly hit overnight. During the onslaught in Kyiv, residents took cover in bomb shelters as missiles struck civilian infrastructure and debris from intercepted drones fell from the sky. Ukrainian authorities had earlier sent alerts to residents, warning that Russian bombers were nearby. Volodymyr Zelensky, Ukraines president, said the savage attack lasted for more than 12 hours and involved 500 drones and more than 40 missiles. The strikes in Kyiv sparked several fires - X Emergency workers at the scene in Kyiv - REUTERS/Thomas Peter A hospital and a residential neighbourhood were among the sites hit during the bombardment, authorities said. Timur Tkachenko, head of the capitals military administration, said four people had so far been confirmed killed and at least 10 had been injured. Among the dead was a 12-year-old girl. The Russians have restarted the child death counter, he wrote on Telegram. Vitali Klitschko, the mayor of Kyiv, said two of the fatalities came after a fire broke out at a hospital. Russia launched another massive air attack on Ukrainian cities while people were sleeping, Andriy Sybiha, Ukraines foreign minister, wrote on X. Again, hundreds of drones and missiles, destroying residential buildings and causing civilian casualties, he added. Mr Sybiha posted footage of a multi-storey apartment block on fire, which he said was a result of the attack. Russia launched another massive air attack on Ukrainian cities while people were sleeping. Again, hundreds of drones and missiles, destroying residential buildings and causing civilian casualties. We must maximise the cost of further escalation for Russia. Putin must know pic.twitter.com/PteTPyV6pn Andrii Sybiha (@andrii_sybiha) September 28, 2025 Calling on the world to back president [Donald] Trumps efforts and halt any Russian imports, Mr Zelensky said Ukraine would continue its policy of trying to disrupt Russian energy exports in response. Meanwhile, Polish and Dutch fighter jets were scrambled to patrol the skies over eastern Poland early on Sunday, as Warsaw sought to secure its airspace against any Russian incursion. The Polish defence ministry described the operation as preventative and said it aimed to protect citizens in areas adjacent to the Ukrainian border. Dutch F-35 fighter jets supported the Polish air force in a show of Nato co-operation, while German soldiers manning Patriot air defence systems were also put on high alert. At 8am local time, the Polish defence ministry announced that the operation had been completed and that no violations of its airspace had taken place. Kyiv citizens take shelter in a metro station on Saturday night - Thomas Peter/REUTERS The attack in Kyiv was one of the largest since Russia launched its invasion - Thomas Peter/REUTERS Tensions have risen between Nato and Russia in the wake of a large-scale Russian drone incursion into Polish airspace early in September. A Polish decision to shoot down the drones was the first time that a Nato member had reacted to a Russian provocation with direct fire. A further incursion by Russian jets into Estonian airspace, as well as drone interference at several European airports, has intensified concerns that the Kremlin is escalating its hybrid attacks on Nato. Speaking at the United Nations General Assembly in New York on Saturday, Sergey Lavrov, the Russian foreign minister, denied that his country had any intention of starting a war with the Western alliance. He also stated that any aggression against my country will be met with a decisive response. Congregants walk down the main steps of La Luz del Mundo Church in east Los Angeles on 5 June 2019. Photograph: Genaro Molina/Los Angeles Times/Getty Images Since its inception nearly 100 years ago, La Luz del Mundo Church has been a family affair even as it spread from Mexico to the US and around the world. Eusebio Aaron Joaquin Gonzalez, who founded the Guadalajara-based Christian church, was succeeded by his son, Samuel Joaquin Flores, upon his death in 1964. When Samuel died in 2014, his son, Naason Joaquin Garcia, assumed power. La Luz del Mundo now reportedly operates in all 50 US states and approximately the same number of countries, boasting 5 million members worldwide. However, new filings in Manhattan federal court have alleged that La Luzs patriarchs passed down much more than leadership at the helm of this evangelical megachurch. Related: Former priest who served under two Louisiana governors arrested for allegedly raping disabled child A recently unsealed indictment charges Naason and five other defendants, including his mother in a sprawling sex-trafficking conspiracy. Prosecutors allege that each generation carried out a deeply disturbing tradition of abuse against vulnerable devotees. The defendants engaged in a racketeering enterprise that exploited the LLDM Church and persisted for decades to facilitate the systemic sexual abuse of children and women including the creation of photos and videos of sadistic child sexual abuse, prosecutors said in announcing the charges. Eva Garcia de Joaquin, Samuels wife and Naasons mother, groomed for her husbands sexual abuse and directly herself sexually abused minors and young women for years, prosecutors also said. Naason, who is serving a state-level sentence in California for the sexual abuse of minors, was brought to New York City to face these charges. He pleaded not guilty on Tuesday. The alleged culture of abuse started with Aaron and continued by his descendants. He, Samuel, and Naason tricked girls and young women by telling them they could get a special blessing by serving them. This frequently included sexual activity, prosecutors said. Church doctrine set the stage for abuse. The church leader was known as an Apostle. Members were told that the sole way to reach eternal salvation was to follow the teachings of the Apostle, prosecutors said. They were also warned that God will punish and eternally damn anyone who doubts the Apostle, fails to follow the Apostles teachings, or defies the Apostle. As the churchs Apostle, Samuel abused numerous girls and women. Samuels actions served as a model for his Naason who is still the churchs Apostle. Naasons victims include the daughters of girls and women his father abused, prosecutors allege. Samuel couldnt carry out this abuse without the help of a coterie of women. His wife, Eva, allegedly helped to identify girls and women for sexual abuse and to groom them by exploiting their ages and vulnerabilities. Eva set the stage for one victims abuse by slowly exposing her to sexually explicit reading material and pornography, which was strictly forbidden according to the doctrine propagated by Samuel. When the girl was around 16, Eva allegedly helped Samuel assault her, prosecutors claim. All the while, they allegedly used church coffers as their personal bank to fund abuse. Naason allegedly used members donations on masks, costumes, and sex toys to make child sexual abuse images. He also told others to use this money, dubbed love offerings, to buy cleaning supplies meant for eliminating evidence of abuse. The family also bankrolled a high-rolling lifestyle with love-offerings, buying luxury cars, watches, designer clothing, and first-class travel around the world. Samuel and Eva allegedly took advantage of congregants free labor to build a sprawling home in Los Angeles, California. The house was adorned with so many luxurious items, such as gold leaf lining the houses molding, that LLDM Church members refer to it as the Versace house, prosecutors said. When federal agents searched Naason and Evas adjacent homes on 10 September, they found still more evidence of wealth including more than $1m in US currency as well as Canadian dollars and Euros. They allege to have also found numerous gold pieces and coins. Evas house even featured a trap door hidden underneath a bed, court papers contend. The alleged trap door gave way to an underground area with a safe that contained a cache of $220,000 and jewellry. Prosecutors pointed to Evas apparent wealth in paperwork arguing against her release on bail. Witnesses told authorities that there are hundreds of thousands in US dollars hidden beneath La Luzs churches in Mexico. And with her access to multiple properties abroad, Eva could comfortably live in hiding should she flee, prosecutors said. Naason and Eva both face charges that carry a maximum life sentence, including racketeering conspiracy and sex-trafficking conspiracy. Neither Naason nor Evas attorneys could immediately be reached. Alan Jackson, Naasons defense lawyer in Los Angeles, previously told NPR: We categorically deny these charges. Jackson also said: We reject the grotesque portrait painted by the government and its allies. In the US, call or text the Childhelp abuse hotline on 800-422-4453 or visit their website for more resources and to report child abuse or DM for help. For adult survivors of child abuse, help is available at ascasupport.org. In the UK, the NSPCC offers support to children on 0800 1111, and adults concerned about a child on 0808 800 5000. The National Association for People Abused in Childhood (Napac) offers support for adult survivors on 0808 801 0331. In Australia, children, young adults, parents and teachers can contact the Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800, or Bravehearts on 1800 272 831, and adult survivors can contact Blue Knot Foundation on 1300 657 380. Other sources of help can be found at Child Helplines International A man who crashed his vehicle through the front doors of a Michigan church opened fire with an assault rifle and set the church ablaze, killing at least four people and wounding at least eight others before dying in a shootout with police, officials said. Police said the perpetrator, identified as Thomas Jacob Sanford, 40, a former US Marine from the nearby town of Burton, deliberately set fire to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, which was engulfed in flames and billowing smoke. Two of the shooting victims died and eight others were hospitalised, officials said. Several hours after the shooting, police reported finding at least two more bodies in the charred remains of the church, which had not yet been cleared and may contain other victims. There are some that are unaccounted for, Grand Blanc Township Police Chief William Renye told a press conference. An official with the US Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives said investigators believe the shooter used an accelerant - probably gasoline - to fuel the fire, and that some explosives were recovered. The FBI said it was leading the investigation of what it considered an act of targeted violence. The FBI says it is leading the investigation of what it considered an act of targeted violence (Heem Vaniawala via REUTERS) Hundreds of people were in the church when Sanford drove into the building, Mr Renye said. Two law enforcement officers rushed to the scene within 30 seconds of receiving emergency calls and engaged the suspect in an exchange of gunfire, shooting him dead in the parking lot about eight minutes after the incident began, Mr Renye said. Investigators will search the shooters home and phone in search of a motive, Mr Renye said. US military records show Sanford was a US Marine from 2004 to 2008 and an Iraq war veteran. Coincidentally, another 40-year-old Marine veteran who served in Iraq is a suspect in a North Carolina shooting that killed three people and wounded five others less than 14 hours before the Michigan incident. Police in Southport, North Carolina, accused Nigel Max Edge of firing on a waterfront bar from a boat on Saturday night. Edge has been charged with three counts of first-degree murder and five counts of attempted murder, police said. According to court records, a federal lawsuit that Edge had filed against the US government, and others, describes him as a decorated Marine who suffered severe wounds including traumatic brain injury in Iraq. The lawsuit, which was dismissed, showed Edge was previously known as Sean William DeBevoise before changing his name. Emergency personnel work at the scene of a shooting which took place at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (REUTERS) In Michigan, one witness told WXYZ television she heard a big bang and the doors blew. I lost friends in there and some of my little primary children that I teach on Sundays were hurt. Its very devastating for me, said the woman, who gave her name as Paula. President Donald Trump in a statement on Truth Social said that the shooting appears to be yet another targeted attack on Christians in the United States of America and that, THIS EPIDEMIC OF VIOLENCE IN OUR COUNTRY MUST END, IMMEDIATELY! The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, informally known as the Mormon church, follows the teachings of Jesus and also the prophecies of Joseph Smith, a 19th-century American. Grand Blanc, a town of 7,700 people, is about 60 miles (100 km) northwest of Detroit. The Michigan rampage marked the 324th mass shooting in the US in 2025, according to the Gun Violence Archive. It was also the third US mass shooting in less than 24 hours, including the North Carolina incident and a shooting a few hours later at a casino in Eagle Pass, Texas, that killed at least two people and injured several others. A Sunday worship service turned into a scene of horror when a gunman rammed his vehicle into a Mormon church in Michigan before opening fire on congregants and setting the building on fire, killing four people and injuring at least eight others. Thomas Jacob Sanford, 40, was identified as the suspect, police said during a press conference on Sunday evening. The attack unfolded around 10:25 a.m. at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc Township, about 50 miles north of Detroit, according to police. Hundreds of people, including children, were inside at the time of the shooting. After the suspect smashed his pickup truck with two American flags affixed to the bed through the front doors of the church, Sanford emerged with an assault rifle and began firing on worshippers, Grand Blanc Township Police Chief William Renye said. His reign of terror continued as he intentionally set a fire that turned into a massive blaze, police said. It was brought under control just before 1 p.m. As the suspect fled the church, he exchanged gunfire with two officers and was killed. The police chief said they believe they will find more victims when its safe to search the building. We do believe that there were people up there that were near that fire and they were unable to get out of the church, Renye said. So, we do believe we will find additional victims once were able to search that, once there are no signs of a fire reigniting. The gunman was deployed to Fallujah in 2007 Thomas Sanford enlisted in the Marines in 2004, upon graduating from Goodrich High School. After serving in Okinawa, Sanford was deployed to Fallujah in Iraq in 2007 (Facebook) Thomas Sanford enlisted in the Marines in 2004, upon graduating from Goodrich High School. After serving in Okinawa, Sanford was deployed to Fallujah, Iraq, in 2007. At the time, his father told local outlet Clarkston News of his pride in his son. Hes a homegrown kid who misses his family when hes gone. Jakes going voluntarily and plans on returning to this community when his service is over. We are very proud of him. The same article mentioned that his grandfather was a World War II veteran and that his uncle also served in the Marines. He left the Marines in 2008 with the rank of sergeant. During his time in the military, he was awarded the Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal. He last served in the 2nd Maintenance Battalion in Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. Sanford specialized in repairing and maintaining military vehicles. His military career was described as stellar, according to the Detroit Free Press. Sanford went to work as a truck driver, at one point driving a tow truck and another driving a Coca-Cola delivery truck. His son was born with a rare medical condition named hyperinsulinism Thomas Jacob Sanford, 40, shown wearing a Donald Trump t-shirt bearing the slogan Make Liberals Cry Again (Facebook) Sanfords son, Brantlee, was born with a rare medical condition where the pancreas produces too much insulin, known as hyperinsulinism. The condition leads to brain complications. He told a medical news outlet, Check Up Newsroom, in 2016: We found out Brantlee was having problems shortly after his birth. It was a nightmare for us. We were slowly realizing that Brantlee wasnt a typical premature baby. My sister had sent me a newsletter from a childrens hospital in Texas called Cook Childrens. I emailed the writer of this article on congenital hyperinsulinism while waiting for a miracle to happen, he added. From there, the family set up a GoFundMe page and were able to travel to the Lone Star state so that Brantlee could begin his treatment. He has been pictured wearing a Donald Trump Make Liberals Cry Again t-shirt A photo of Sanford that has gon viral in the wake of the shooting shows him wearing a Donald Trump t-shirt bearing the slogan, Make Liberals Cry Again. A 2020 Washington Post opinion piece said that phrase had now been adopted as the battle hymn of Republicans under Trumps leadership. Public records indicate that Sanford was not registered with either of the major political parties. The Daily Beast reports that a Trump sign could be seen outside of his home as federal law enforcement conducted searches in the wake of the shooting. Democratic activist Mark Grebner told local outlet Bridge Michigan that Sanford signed two political petitions, one to repeal Gov. Gretchen Whitmers COVID mandates and one to outlaw abortion in the state. Fire and law enforcement officers stand outside the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Sunday In an initial post on his Truth Social social network, the president wrote, This appears to be yet another targeted attack on Christians in the United States of America. THIS EPIDEMIC OF VIOLENCE IN OUR COUNTRY MUST END, IMMEDIATELY! Photos on social media show him to have been an active outdoorsman who often went hunting. A high school friend of Sanfords, Ryan Lopez, told The New York Times that he just saw the gunman in a gym a few weeks previously. He was happy to see me, he just seemed normal. Lopez described Sanford as a regular country kid. Another neighbor told the newspaper that Sanford would regularly plow driveways in the community for free. Something must have happened, snapped somehow, the neighbor said. Sanfords connection to the church remains unknown Sanford is from Burton, Michigan, Renye said. His name was released by the police on Sunday evening. The truck he drove into the church was covered with American flags, one witness told the Detroit Free Press. Renye said he used an assault rifle in the attack, and that police believe there is only one person involved. We believe we have the guy who did this, Renye said. An FBI Evidence Response Team agent inspects the suspect's truck outside the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in Grand Blanc, Michigan (AFP/Getty) Authorities executed a search warrant at his home and are reviewing his phone records as they work to determine a motive. The FBI has assigned 100 agents to the case to help interview witnesses. As you can imagine, theres a lot of witnesses that were within the church and that is a lot of witness information statements that we have to obtain, Renye said. Its unclear at this point what connection, if any, the shooter had to the church. Sanford does not have a criminal record, according to online court records, reported The Detroit Free Press. Investigators say that an accelerant, possibly gasoline, was used to set fire to the church and that suspected explosive devices were also found at the scene. Who are the victims? Four people are dead and at least eight others were injured, though authorities said that the death toll could rise as investigators complete their search of the building. Their names have not been released. Seven people are in stable condition and one person is in critical condition, Renye said at the press conference. People embrace near the scene of a shooting at a church in Grand Blanc, Michigan, on September 28 (AFP via Getty Images) In an update posted to Facebook Sunday afternoon, Renye said one of the nine being treated at the hospital had died from gunshot wounds. Renye said at a Sunday night press conference that the bodies of two additional victims had been found inside the church by investigators. The entire church had not been cleared on Sunday night. The police chief said that two of the four victims had been shot and that some people remained unaccounted for, but he was not sure how many. Phillip Cotter, who was a member of the church, teared up as he spoke to the Detroit Free Press. He did not attend services this morning. I know everyone who was there, he said. I don't know what God has planned for us, but I trust him. Evil is alive, it's active. People are too casual to throw out terms that inflame others, weak minds. Some nurses from nearby Henry Ford Hospital, who were currently on strike, abandoned their picket line and rushed to the church to aid victims. Human lives matter more than our labor dispute, Teamsters Local 332 President Dan Glass said. A tragic act of violence In a statement, Mormon church leaders called the incident a tragic act of violence and urged members to cooperate with investigators. A tragic act of violence occurred today at a chapel of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc, Michigan. During Sunday worship services a gunman opened fire, and early reports indicate that multiple individuals were injured. We ask for cooperation with local authorities as details become available. The Church is in communication with local law enforcement as the investigation continues and as we receive updates on the condition of those affected. We offer thanks to the emergency responders who are assisting victims and families. We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of prayers and concern from so many people around the world. In moments of sorrow and uncertainty, we find strength and comfort through our faith in Jesus Christ. Places of worship are meant to be sanctuaries of peacemaking, prayer and connection. We pray for peace and healing for all involved. After fleeing the building, the suspect exchanged gunfire with two officers and was killed (Getty Images) The shooting occurred less than 24 hours after the death of Russell M. Nelson, the churchs president and prophet, who passed away Saturday at age 101. According to church protocol, Dallin H. Oaks is expected to become the next president of the faith. Texas Governor Greg Abbott announced plans to create a task force to protect places of worship in the wake of the shooting. The escalation of violent attacks against people and places of faith is heinous and must end, Abbott wrote on X. I have directed the Texas Dept. of Public Safety to form task forces with federal and local law enforcement to better safeguard our places of worship. The fundamental principle that thou shall not kill must be strongly reaffirmed as a core tenet of our society and must be aggressively enforced by law enforcement. A deadly pattern Sundays shooting marked at least the 324th mass shooting in the United States this year, according to the Gun Violence Archive. It came just hours after another gunman opened fire at a waterfront bar in Southport, North Carolina, killing three and injuring at least eight. Nigel Edge, 40, was arrested and charged with three counts of first-degree murder, five counts of attempted first-degree murder and five counts of assault with a deadly weapon, Southport Police Chief Todd Coring said. Sundays shooting marked at least the 324th mass shooting in the United States this year (AP) Places of worship have increasingly become targets of mass violence. On August 27, a shooter in Minneapolis killed two children and wounded 14 others when he fired into a church. Robert Westman, 23, dressed all in black and armed with a rifle, a shotgun and a pistol, fired through the stained-glass windows of a church adjacent to the Annunciation Catholic School as children and teachers gathered for the first Mass of the school year. The victims were later identified by their families as 8-year-old Fletcher Merkel and 10-year-old Harper Moyski. The suspect died by a self-inflicted gunshot as law enforcement rushed to the scene. And on September 19, Blake Richard Hoover was charged with arson after allegedly setting fire to the Chabad of Charlotte County in Punta Gorda, Florida, just days before Rosh Hashanah, in what police described as a hate crime. Supporters of PAS, the party of Moldovas president, at a rally in Chisinau last week - EPA Moldova has banned two pro-Russia parties on the eve of a critical election marred by extensive Kremlin interference. Voters will go to the polls on Sunday in parliamentary elections seen as a choice between two futures for Moldova: a path to EU membership, or an anti-Western lurch toward Moscow. An electoral commission investigation released on Friday found that the Heart of Moldova and Greater Moldova parties had used illegal financing in their campaigns and worked with officials sent by Moscow to sway the vote. Heart of Moldova is one of four parties in the Russia-friendly Patriotic Electoral Bloc, which is seeking to challenge the majority of the pro-European incumbent government led by president Maia Sandu. Ms Sandu accused Moscow of spending hundreds of millions of euros to buy hundreds of thousands of votes to bring her country into Vladimir Putins grip. If Russia gains control over Moldova, the consequences will be immediate and dangerous for the entire region. Every Moldovan will suffer, no matter who they voted for, Ms Sandu said in a national address earlier this week. Moldova, a former Soviet state which borders Ukraine, is seen as a potential target for Putins revanchist ambitions, with extensive Russian influence campaigns in operation to destabilise the country, including frequent Kremlin state media claims that MI6 is taking control of the Moldovan elections. Russia-linked networks have been accused of bombarding Moldovan voters with deepfake videos, disinformation, cash and cryptocurrency in the run-up to Sundays parliamentary elections. On Tuesday, authorities also arrested 74 suspected provocateurs allegedly trained by Moscow to incite riots. The report describes how a correspondent from the Moldovan outlet NordNews had infiltrated a massive Russian influence campaign known as Evrazzia, which allegedly trained activists from both parties and discussed payments to some of these individuals for their support. The investigation alleges that the president of the Greater Moldova Party, Victoria Furtuna, was aware of the activities and herself participated in chatrooms where the journalist was present. Both parties deny the allegations, the report says. Moldovas intelligence services also found evidence of links between Greater Moldova and the Victory Bloc, a group of pro-Russia parties backed by Ilan Shor, a fugitive oligarch and Putin ally who allegedly bankrolled Russian businesses with $8 billion (6 billion) of cryptocurrency to evade sanctions and interfere in Moldovas elections. Mr Shor, who is sanctioned by Western countries, was the chairman of the Chance party, which was banned in 2023 for using undeclared foreign funds to bribe candidates and voters and attempting to sway public opinion. In October 2024, Moldova narrowly voted to enshrine a path toward EU membership in its constitution after a bitterly contested campaign which saw a network affiliated with Russia bribe more than 130,000 people to vote no. The country has also long struggled with significant pro-Russia separatist movements, particularly in the restive Transnistria region. Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday warned that Moldova was at risk of falling to Russia and could follow a similar road to Belarus and Georgia, both of which have leaders who are close allies of Putin. In a speech at the UN, Ukraines president said: Russias trying to do to Moldova what Iran once did to Lebanon and the global response again, not enough. We have already lost Georgia in Europe... and for many, many years, Belarus has also been moving toward dependence on Russia. Europe cannot afford to lose Moldova too. The adult son of a missing couple from Albany, New York, confessed, live on TV, to killing his parents after the victims' bodies were discovered in the backyard of their home. The human remains that were found following a fraud investigation have not yet been identified through forensic examinations. Authorities executed search warrants at the missing couple's home on Tuesday. Missing Couple's Son Confesses to Parents' Murder The next day, they discovered human remains on the property and held a press conference on Thursday to share limited information available. That was all before the man's shocking confession. Albany Police Chief Brandon Cox said that investigators from the Social Security Administration reached out to them on May 21 to ask for assistance. The Albany Police Department (APD) sent officers to 6 Crestwood Court to conduct a welfare check on the victims, Theresia and Franz Kraus, who were 83 and 92, respectively, according to News10. Cox said that the missing couple who lived at the address they were referred to were both receiving benefits from the Social Security Administration. When their officers responded to the address, they met up with the investigator in charge of the case. The police chief added it was "apparent that Mr. and Mrs. Kraus were no longer at that house." The development led officials to open a multi-agency social security fraud investigation, led by the APD, the Albany County District Attorney's Office, the Social Security Administration, the New York State Police, and many other federal agencies. Under Investigation for Financial Crimes The suspect in the case, 53-year-old Lorenz Kraus, was the one being investigated for financial crimes. While the man was being questioned, he reluctantly admitted his guilt in the killing of his parents, the Times Union reported. Cox said that while there is still a lack of official identification of the bodies found at the missing couple's home, they are confident that they belong to Theresia and Franz. He added that investigators are still working on determining the cause and manner of death. The incident comes as neighbors of the missing couple said that the elderly victims had suddenly disappeared several years ago. One neighbor noted that the son, the suspect in the case, said that his parents went to Germany, which she did not believe. Another neighbor noted that she parked in the driveway of the missing couple's home to make sure that the home looked like someone was living in it to deter anyone from trying to break in and steal property, as per WNYT. Sylena Jo Dalton was found murdered in her apartment in 1998 and her 10-week-old daughter, Allyson, was missing. Now, police say they have arrested her killer (Virginia State Police) A mom was found murdered in her Virginia apartment in 1998 and her newborn daughter went missing. Now, police say they have arrested the moms killer. However, the whereabouts of the 10-week-old daughter remain unknown nearly three decades later. On Sunday, Virginia State Police announced the arrest of Daniel E. Pompell, 56, in connection with the killing of Sylena Jo Dalton. He was charged with one count of murder and taken into custody on Friday. On July 27, 1998, a friend found 20-year-old Dalton stabbed to death inside her Strasburg, Virginia, apartment. Her 10-week-old daughter, Allyson Kathleen Dalton, was missing from the home. Even 27 years later, police do not know what happened to the baby. Sylena Jo Dalton was found murdered in her apartment in 1998 and her 10-week-old daughter, Allyson, was missing. Now, police say they have arrested her killer. (Virginia State Police) The whereabouts of Allyson remain unknown 27 years after she went missing. (Virginia State Police) Pompell is the father of the child, according to investigators. He had cooperated with police through the investigation and claimed that he went to the apartment the morning of the murder. However, he claimed that when he knocked and no one answered, he left. He remained cooperative with the police for years. In 2021, state investigators announced they were awaiting DNA tests in the case, according to the Northern Virginia Daily. Its unclear if those results linked Pompell as the suspect. A motive for the alleged murder has not been released. We are pleased to be able to bring this case to this point and bring some overdue closure to the family of Sylena Jo Dalton, Virginia State Police Bureau of Criminal Investigations Field Office Capt. John Defilippi is quoted as stating in the release. We are thankful for all the hard work agents and analysts put into this case to make this arrest possible. We also truly appreciate the cooperation and coordination with Shenandoah County Commonwealths Attorney Elizabeth Cooper and her office in moving this case forward. Pompell is now being held in a Virginia jail without bond. Virginia State Police has tirelessly pursued justice for the death of Sylena Jo Dalton, Shenandoah County Commonwealth's Attorney Elizabeth Cooper said. My office is prepared to continue in this effort and ensure justice is served on behalf of the victim and her family." The great wait is over! declares one of dozens of newspaper headlines flashing up on the screen at Oasiss final UK reunion show. Out come the brothers, arm in arm: Liam and Noel Gallagher in the flesh. Could it be, thinks the 90,000-strong full house at Wembley Stadium, that they are really embracing one another on that stage? That they have held out on feuding for the 39 dates thus far to get here, immediately opening, appropriately, with the chaotic static of Hello? The world went nostalgia-mad for the Oasis reunion when it was announced just over a year ago. In their Nineties heyday, they were almost certainly the most culturally important British band. In retrospect, its increasingly charming to think how the Britpop heroes managed to be both sneery and sentimental, arrogant and sincere. But in the years since their 2009 split, the brother-on-brother soap opera you either knew they would inevitably get back together or believed what they bitterly swore (that the hate ran too deep) left a Gallagher reconciliation in doubt. After all, only a sibling would understand the truth of Noels infamous quote: I liked my mum until she gave birth to Liam. In the way that Charli XCXs Brat Summer dominated 2024s sweaty season, Oasis have fundamentally owned it this year. Male fashion took an immediate hard swerve towards vintage adidas jackets, Fred Perry, bucket hats, and football shirts. You couldnt go a week without your friends and family announcing a trip overseas to see the band, having failed to get their hands on those coveted UK tickets. Though at Sunday nights Wembley show, Liam seemed to tease another tour (see you all next year, he said during the encore), there is a sense that all that joy ends tonight. The biggest band in the UK plays its biggest stadium and ends their home run: fun for funs sake is over in just two hours. But not before Morning Glory the third song in when the stadium really roars into action. Need a little time to wake up, Liam calls out, pointing at an imaginary watch on his wrist. He looks as cool as ever, exuding a f*** off attitude in aviators and that classic parka. I need all ya in the posh seats as well to turn around and give each other a cuddle, he orders the crowd before a round of Cigarettes & Alcohol. Its wonderful to see men taking so many grinning selfies together; heartwarming to witness the full families of different generations screaming along to the chorus of Roll With It. For a good while it looks as though Noel is at risk of fading into the background, until it becomes clear that hes given space to shine slap-bang in the middle of the set. On the unassuming balladic tracks Talk Tonight (inspired, actually, by the near-breakup of the band in the mid-Nineties) and Half the World Away, as well as on the huge-sounding Little by Little, the guitarist leads it all, nonchalant and unreadable in that everyman Noel Gallagher manner, while Liam mooches about. Its worth mentioning that the legacy band is as tight as ever, the sound crystalline and the songs entirely well aged: classic rock but culturally relevant somehow, still so British. Any last vestiges of energy are reserved for the encore, as The Masterplan sends the beer flying before the three big guns, some of the best-known songs in British music history: Dont Look Back in Anger, Wonderwall and Champagne Supernova. Its what everyones been waiting for, and it is as cathartic, as emotive as we expected. Dont look back in anger: The final night of Oasiss UK run is as cathartic as we expected (Joshua Halling) Most of Liams chatter tonight is kept to the occasional nice one the verbal equivalent of a fist-bump or a brief song dedication. The show is not only commentary-free but its completely apolitical: there are no mentions of politicians, or Palestine, not even a classic insult thrown out from Liam. Its just Oasis doing the hits. And yet throughout the jubilation of a brilliant show promised and delivered, there is a distinct summer is over energy, a sad last hurrah vibe. As this Oasis Summer comes to a close, the cultural mood in the UK has deteriorated into something sour. A couple of Sundays ago, enough people to fill this stadium almost twice over travelled down the road for the biggest far-right protest in decades. Prime minister Keir Starmer has announced a huge step towards mass surveillance with his digital ID cards policy. Reform UK is surging in the polls. Whats so great about Britain? a new special socio-political edition of British GQ asked its writers and celebrity interviewees to ponder, seizing on this uncomfortable moment. Who knows, but thankfully we have Oasis. See you next year, Liam teases again, before the fireworks erupt. St Marys Church in Banbury, Oxfordshire (Google Streetview) Police have launched a major investigation after a woman was gang raped in a churchyard in the early hours of Sunday morning. The victim, a woman in her 30s, was subjected to what Thames Valley Police described as a horrific attack in Banbury, Oxfordshire. Detectives are also appealing for information about a woman who bravely tried to intervene and help the victim during the assault. Specially trained officers are supporting the victim through what the force called an extremely difficult time. Investigating officer, Detective Sergeant Mark Personius said: This is a horrific crime and Thames Valley Police is conducting a thorough investigation to identify the offenders. I am making a public appeal to a specific witness, a woman, who we believe may have tried to help the victim. At this stage we dont have a description of this Good Samaritan. "However, if you believe you are the woman, please contact the police as you may have vital information that can help us piece together what happened. The town centre would have been busy on a Saturday night into the early hours of a Sunday morning. Therefore, I would also appeal to anyone else who saw or heard anything in the area between about 12am and 2.30am this morning to come forward. Please check any CCTV, dashcam or mobile phone footage you have from the area and if you have captured anything that you think may help us, please get in touch." Rabbi Lee has accused Sir Keir Starmer of a devastating lack of judgment - Omer Barr /The Telegraph A rabbi whose wife and daughters were murdered by Hamas is to protest against Sir Keir Starmer at the Labour Party conference. Rabbi Leo Dees wife, school teacher Lucy, 48, and their daughters Maia, 20, and Rina, 15, were shot dead by terrorists while on holiday in April 2023. As politicians head to Liverpool for the Labour Party conference, Rabbi Dee has questioned the Prime Ministers ability to steer the country. Critics of Sir Keir have accused him of recognising the state of Palestine, which the Government did last week, to ease divisions in Labour and regain the support of Muslim voters who have deserted the party in droves. On Monday morning, Rabbi Dee will protest outside the Labour conference, which began on Sunday and will run until Wednesday, holding a banner reading: Hamas, funded by the Palestinian Authority, murdered my British wife and daughters. Why is Keir recognising a Palestinian state? He told The Telegraph Sir Keir was appeasing Hamas by recognising Palestine as a state. Daughter Mayas scrapbook - Omer Barr /The Telegraph Churchill said appeasement is feeding the crocodile in the hope that you will be the last one to be eaten, and thats what it feels like Keir Starmers policy is. And it puts British citizens in direct danger, he said. I feel like I had to come to this conference to protest against this policy because Im the individual from the UK who has been most affected by the people Keir Starmer is making a deal with to recognise their state. How many British citizens need to be murdered by a terrorist group before Keir Starmer will recognise them as an independent state? Does this mean he will cave into Islamic fundamentalists in the UK and recognise their independence under sharia law? Could Russia threaten and get sovereignty over Liverpool as a warm water port for her ships? Appeasement is never a good idea politically. And Britain has experience of this. Rabbi Dees wife, Lucy with Rina and Maya who were killed by terrorists - Omer Barr/The Telegraph Rabbi Dees family were driving in the Jordan Valley in the West Bank during the week of Passover when they were ambushed by Palestinian terrorists who opened fire on their vehicle and rammed the car off the road. The terrorists then shot the victims at close range before fleeing the scene. The Jerusalem Post reported that the attack was attributed to the al-Qassam Brigades, the military wing of Hamas. Weeks later, Israeli special forces conducted a raid in Nablus, where the assailants Hamas operatives identified as Hassan Katnani and Muad Masri were located and killed in a firefight. Rabbi Dee, from Radlett, Herts, recently remarried in Israel. He said: Starmer announced his fictitious Palestinian state on the eve of the Jewish new year and then had the gall to wish Jewish citizens a sweet new year. This is comparable to condemning Jews to multiple repetitions of the October 7 massacre and then wishing them a good day. How is he so out of touch with reality? He added: Its a devastating lack of judgment. If you cant tell the difference between a terrorist and an honest broker, then how can he be trusted to run this country through its greatest challenges yet in defence and economy? Oher countries which have officially recognised the state of Palestine include Australia, Portugal, Canada, France and Belgium. Donald Trump, the US president, has refused to fall in line with Europe. His administrations reaction marks the deepest ever divide between Washington and its European allies over how to achieve peace in the Middle East. The Prime Ministers spokesman was contacted for comment. Offenders on a community payback scheme, administered by the Probation Service, painting a lamppost on Whitby pier. Photograph: Peter Jordan_NE/Alamy The idea that naming and shaming offenders will build confidence in community sentences is beyond belief (Report, 26 September). I thought we had moved beyond the middle ages. Do ministers not realise that this is playing to the mob and the politics of revenge? People serving community sentences have already faced the courts and publicly carried out their sentencing. To name and shame adds to their humiliation and the sense that they are pariahs in society. It incites (to my mind, justifiably) resentment. How is this rehabilitation? How does it build a more cohesive and caring society? What builds confidence in community sentencing is that it can boost offenders sense of having something to contribute to their local community and society at large. Ruth Windle Frome, Somerset Re your editorial on criminal justice reform (20 September), I believe that the approach used for motoring crimes a fine and points that accumulate, leading to a driving ban could be readily adapted to other low-level criminal activity, with the number of points reflecting the seriousness of the offence, and 12 points garnered within, say, three years leading to a sentence of 12 months in jail. This sword of Damocles approach to sentencing would, as with motorists, serve to concentrate the minds of most petty offenders, by far the majority, and free up overstretched police and magistrates court resources. Peter Fellows Bradford Have an opinion on anything youve read in the Guardian today? Please email us your letter and it will be considered for publication in our letters section. Rory McIlroy admitted the day had been really challenging after hitting back at fans heckling him during the Ryder Cup. The world number two shouted at one fan to shut the f*** up after a comment was aimed in his direction as he prepared to play a shot during his Saturdays foursomes win at Bethpage Black. He was then subjected to further repeated attempts to distract him during his afternoon fourballs outing, with play paused on a number of occasions as police and opponent Justin Thomas appealed for calm. This came after an incident on Friday when the Northern Irishman appeared to make an offensive gesture in response to something said in the crowd. He rose above the noise to deliver two telling points as Europe strode towards victory by opening up an 11.5-4.5 lead over the United States. McIlroy said: It was a really challenging day. Im going to sleep well tonight. Its not for me to say people can be their own judge of whether they took it too far or not. Im just proud of us for being able to win today with what we had to go through. It was not clear if any particular comments angered McIlroy, who seemed more annoyed about when they were being delivered rather than the nature of them. Justin Thomas called for supporters to be quiet as McIlroy prepared to play shots (Mike Egerton/PA) He said: I dont mind them having a go at us, thats to be expected. I mean, thats what an away Ryder Cup is. When theyre still doing it while you are over the ball and trying to hit your shot, thats the tough thing. In between shots, say whatever you want to me. Thats totally fine. But just give us the respect, let us hit shots, and give us the same chance that the Americans have. Remarks such as miss it or slice it have not been uncommon as the European players have addressed the ball, but there have been plenty more of an unsavoury nature. McIlroy and Lowry overcame the distractions to score a brilliant win (Mike Egerton/PA) McIlroy was not flustered by the morning incident, returning to the ball to produce a stunning pitch that allowed Tommy Fleetwood to hole out for a 3&2 win. He then held his nerve as he and Shane Lowry beat Thomas and Cameron Young by two holes. Lowry felt McIlroy was targeted because of his status as Europes talisman. Lowry said: We knew what we were going to get coming here but being out with Rory doesnt make it any easier. I think hes getting the brunt of it. I think we dealt with it very well. Rosie Duffield claimed there were at least 80 MPs ready to trigger a challenge to the Prime Minister - Rii Schroer/The Telegraph An MP who left Labour over Sir Keir Starmers stance on womens rights has said she would consider rejoining under Andy Burnham. Rosie Duffield, who quit the party soon after 2024s general election, said she believed the Greater Manchester Mayor had the best chance of fighting off the threat of Reform UK. And she claimed there were at least 80 MPs ready to trigger a challenge to the Prime Minister. Ms Duffield left Labour soon after the lifting of a year-long suspension for liking a tweet by gender-critical comedy writer Graham Lineham, saying Sir Keir had a lack of basic politics and political instincts. Her support for Mr Burnham comes despite the fact that he has spoken up strongly in favour of trans rights. Andy Burnham criticised the Supreme Courts ruling on biological sex - Danny Lawson/PA He signed a letter in favour of self-ID, which would remove the need for a doctor to certify that a person genuinely believes their gender is different from the sex they were born with. Mr Burnham also put out a statement to reaffirm his support for the trans community after meeting the gender-critical group LGB Alliance. And he criticised the Supreme Court ruling in April 2025, which reaffirmed that trans women are not legally women under the Equality Act, saying it had made life more confusing for trans people. Ms Duffield spoke out as the Labour Party conference in Liverpool opened against a backdrop of appalling poll ratings and the forced resignation of senior party figures. She told Times Radio that Sir Keirs Government came unstuck so quickly that its hard to believe there is anything he could do now to save the party. We do need somebody who is much more connected with real people to take that fight to Reform, she said. Ms Duffield, the MP for Canterbury, said Mr Burnham speaks to ordinary people, the kind of people that Farage and his team have been appealing to. About a third of respondents surveyed by Savanta for The Telegraph said Mr Burnham would make a better prime minister and only 21 per cent said Sir Keir. The rest did not put forward an opinion. Meanwhile, an MRP poll for The Sunday Times showed Reform UK was on course to win a majority of 96 seats, with Labour dropping to fewer than 100 seats. Ms Duffield said Mr Burnham was very popular with backbenchers and would comfortably get the 80 Labour MP nominations needed to run for leader, if he could return to Westminster as an MP. Theres certainly going to be at least 80 MPs who dont want the present prime minister to carry on much longer, she said. Asked if she could see a route back for herself to Labour if he became leader, she said: I hope so. However, she added that she would need to understand his approach to protecting womens rights and farmers before standing. Ive got to persuade my constituents that Labour has changed, she said. I need to know that were going to make a bit of a change and that he understands those things. But I think hes probably the person that would take me back. She praised Mr Burnham as completely approachable in contrast with Starmer, who she said had turned Labour into the party of barristers. And she said Labour MPs she was in touch with were fairly disgusted really by the direction that hes been taking the party and did not expect him to last beyond the May 2026 local elections. When Ms Duffield resigned from Labour, she blamed the Governments cruel and unnecessary policies including keeping the two-child benefit cap and axing winter fuel payments for all but the poorest pensioners. On Sunday she told Times Radio: Some dire decisions were being made and it was just really depressing. I really admire those colleagues who decided to stay and keep fighting, keep battling, but it hasnt been great for their mental wellbeing. I just thought I cant take it any more. I cant pretend that this is what I believe in any more. She said kicking out Labour MPs for rebelling over keeping the two-child benefit cap was terrible politics and that every single person whos now in the front bench or in the Cabinet that isnt a new MP had campaigned against that particular policy for 10 years. Russia has launched a massive drone and missile attack on Ukraine's capital this morning, killing four people and injuring about 10, Kyiv's military administration has said. A 12-year-old girl is believed to be among the dead but that is yet to be officially confirmed, Tymur Tkachenko, head of Kyiv's military administration, said on the Telegram messaging app. Poland closed the airspace near two of its southeastern cities, Lublin and Rzeszow, as its air force scrambled jets in response to Russia's attack on Kyiv. Drones flew over Kyiv and anti-aircraft fire rang out through the night in what independent monitors said was one of the biggest strikes on the city since the Ukraine war began in February 2022. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Russia launched around 500 drones and over 40 missiles in the overnight attack on Ukraine. "Moscow wants to continue fighting and killing and deserves only the harshest pressure from the world," Mr Zelenskyy said on the Telegram app. The attack, which started at around 6am local time (4am UK time), also saw several other regions hit, with at least 16 people, including three children, injured in the southern city of Zaporizhzhia, authorities said. Some residents in Kyiv fled to metro stations deep underground for safety as the attack continued. Poland closed its airspace near the two cities due to "unplanned military activity related to ensuring state security", flight tracking service Flightradar24 said. "In connection with the activity of the Russian Federation's long-range aviation carrying out strikes on the territory of Ukraine, Polish and allied aircraft have begun operating in our airspace," the Polish military said in a post on X. It described the actions as preventive and aimed at securing airspace and protecting citizens. Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov on Saturday addressed the UN amid allegations that Moscow has violated the airspace of several of its neighbours in recent weeks. A NATO air defence mission was recently carried out over Poland in response to "unprecedented" Russian drone incursions above the country. On Saturday, Mr Lavrov, who has been Russia's foreign minister for 21 years, spoke in New York at the 80th UN General Assembly. During his address, Mr Lavrov said his country had no intention of attacking any NATO or EU member state but warned of a "decisive response" if any "aggression" was directed towards Moscow. "Threats of force against Russia, accused of practically planning an attack on the North Atlantic Alliance and the European Union, are becoming increasingly common," Mr Lavrov said in New York. "President Putin has repeatedly debunked such provocations. Russia has never had and does not have such intentions, but any aggression against my country will be met with a decisive response." 'They will regret it' After his UN address, Mr Lavrov held a news conference, where he insisted again that Moscow "has nothing to hide" over the allegations against it. He was then asked by US correspondent Mark Stone what the Kremlin's response would be if a nation shot down a Russian drone or plane in Russian airspace. Mr Lavrov said: "Try to understand that a drone, when it is flying not over our territory, but if it crosses someone's border but has left our airspace, probably everyone has the right to do with that drone whatever they consider necessary to ensure their security. "But if there are attempts to shoot down any flying object, or indeed any object at all, on our territory, in our airspace, then I think people will seriously regret it, undertaking such a gross violation of our territorial integrity, our sovereignty." Russia launched a huge drone attack on Kyiv on Sunday morning, injuring at least six people in what officials described as one of the biggest strikes on the Ukrainian capital since the war began. The assault began around 6am local time, with drones swarming over the city and anti-aircraft fire echoing through the night. Residents fled to metro stations deep underground for safety as air raid sirens rang out across many regions of Ukraine. (REUTERS) Poland responded by closing airspace near its southeastern cities of Lublin and Rzeszow, scrambling fighter jets to guard against what it called unplanned military activity related to ensuring state security. In connection with the activity of the Russian Federation's long-range aviation carrying out strikes on the territory of Ukraine, Polish and allied aircraft have begun operating in our airspace, Polands military said in a post on X, describing the measures as preventive and aimed at protecting citizens. The escalation came as Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov addressed the UN General Assembly in New York, amid growing allegations that Moscow has violated the airspace of several neighbouring countries in recent weeks. Lavrov, who has served as foreign minister for 21 years, insisted Russia had no plans to attack NATO or EU member states but warned of retaliation if threatened. Threats of force against Russia, accused of practically planning an attack on the North Atlantic Alliance and the European Union, are becoming increasingly common, he said. President Putin has repeatedly debunked such provocations. Russia has never had and does not have such intentions, but any aggression against my country will be met with a decisive response. Speaking later at a news conference, Lavrov maintained Moscow had nothing to hide and was pressed on how Russia would respond if a drone or plane was shot down. (REUTERS) He said: Try to understand that a drone, when it is flying not over our territory, but if it crosses someone's border but has left our airspace, probably everyone has the right to do with that drone whatever they consider necessary to ensure their security. But if there are attempts to shoot down any flying object, or indeed any object at all, on our territory, in our airspace, then I think people will seriously regret it, undertaking such a gross violation of our territorial integrity, our sovereignty. NATO recently carried out an air defence mission over Poland in response to what it called unprecedented Russian drone incursions. Keir Starmer also acknowledged that voter frustration was helping to fuel the rise of Reform. Photograph: Victoria Jones/Shutterstock Keir Starmer has decried Reform UKs racist plans to revoke the rights of thousands of people to live in Britain, as a number of cabinet ministers escalated attacks on Nigel Farage on the first day of the Labour party conference. The prime minister said Farages plans to revoke indefinite leave to remain for families who may have spent years working in Britain could tear this country apart, though he said he understood that many people tempted to vote for Reform were frustrated at the slow pace of change. The Guardian understands Labour HQ is to increase its efforts to contact voters who may be considering voting for Reform. MPs and activists will be told to get on an election footing to seek out new data on non-voters in their patches in an effort to avoid the mistakes progressives made that led to Brexit and the election of Donald Trump. Related: Starmer calling Reform racist risks backlash while staking Labours moral claim The chancellor, Rachel Reeves, and the home secretary, Shabana Mahmood, are also expected to launch muscular attacks on Farage and Reform on Monday in a show of unity from a party that has been under significant pressure since the summer. Reeves will issue a veiled warning to businesses about the instability they would face and the potential breakdown of trade deals. Mahmood will announce tough new conditions for leave to remain and stress that Labour must be tough on migration or voters will fall for Farages false promises. Across the conference, ministers urged party unity and called on members to turn their fire on Farage rather than Starmers leadership. Several explicitly criticised the leadership ambitions of the Greater Manchester mayor, Andy Burnham. The Scottish deputy leader, Jackie Bailie, said Burnham should stop this nonsense, and the health secretary, Wes Streeting, said the party should get behind the team captain. Speaking at a conference fringe event, Burnham said he had done nothing more than launch a debate and that he was worried about the partys perilous position ahead of local elections next year. He called for Labour to end a climate of fear in the party and said there should not be demands of simplistic statements of loyalty from people who disagreed on policy. On the opening day of the conference in Liverpool, Starmer said Reforms proposal to end the main route for immigrants to gain British citizenship was immoral. Reform has pledged to abolish indefinite leave to remain, which is open to people who have worked and lived in the UK legally for five continuous years and their dependents, threatening tens of thousands of people legally living in the UK with deportation unless they meet strict rules. Starmer told the BBCs Sunday With Laura Kuenssberg programme: Well, I do think that it is a racist policy. I do think it is immoral. It needs to be called out for what it is. Related: Labour wont fend off Reform UK by just diluting Farages poison Asked if Reform was trying to appeal to racists, he said: No, I think there are plenty of people who either vote Reform or are thinking of voting Reform who are frustrated. They had 14 years of failure under the Conservatives, they want us to change things. They may have voted Labour a year ago, and they want the change to come more quickly. I actually do understand that. It is one thing to say were going to remove illegal migrants, people who have no right to be here. Im up for that. It is a completely different thing to say we are going to reach in to people who are lawfully here and start removing them. They are our neighbours. Theyre people who work in our economy. They are part of who we are. It will rip this country apart. A number of cabinet ministers have told the Guardian that the party is directing its entire effort into combating Reform and Farage in the belief that the Tories will not stage a recovery before the next election. Starmer will tell grassroots members that they must go through their data with a fine-toothed comb to revisit long-term non-voters and seek out whether there are significantly higher numbers of likely Reform voters among them. Darren Jones, whom the prime minister has appointed as his closest ministerial ally in Downing Street, is taking a close interest in the work to improve the partys ground knowledge, telling members they need to increase their contact with people who do not regularly vote. Party campaigners normally do not canvas people who say they do not intend to vote, but local parties will be told that taking such an approach could lose Labour the next election. They will be urged to establish contact with non-voters to find out what their main concerns are. Labour officials believe that many non-voters feel the impact of poor NHS services and the cost of living in their daily lives, and that the party can take the focus away from immigration by homing in on those two former priorities. Ministers do believe, however, that the party has to show progress in tackling illegal migration, including the issues of small boat Channel crossings and asylum hotels, while bringing down net migration and defending better integration. Related: Starmer calling Reform racist risks backlash while staking Labours moral claim Mahmood will say in her speech on Monday that people seeking indefinite leave to remain will have to show they have integrated and contributed to society through national insurance payments and voluntary work, and not relied on benefits. She will raise the possibility that migrants could live in the UK for a decade and still be denied permission to stay if they fail to meet new standards, while others will be fast-tracked. A consultation will be launched later this year. A number of cabinet ministers speaking on conference fringes backed Starmers decision to call out Farages policy as racist. The energy secretary, Ed Miliband, refused to call Farage a racist but said: That is a racist policy against people who are born abroad, and its absolutely right to call it out. Starmers comments, however, have been seized on by Conservative and Reform politicians. Reforms head of policy, Zia Yusuf, posted: Calling people racist for having legitimate concerns about immigration. Fresh new thinking from No 10. Senior Labour sources have told the Guardian they believe Starmer has struck the right balance by labelling the policy as racist because they believe Farage has gone far beyond what most voters deem acceptable. Polls suggest the majority of voters do not want to see rights revoked from migrants working legally in the UK. A TUC/Hope Not Hate poll of 48,000 voters commissioned by the Labour donor Dale Vince put Reform six points ahead of Labour on Sunday but also found that most voters said they lived in peaceful, friendly communities and enjoyed friendships with people of other ethnicities, religions and backgrounds. They ranked immigration as only the fourth most important issue facing the country. Additional reporting by Helena Horton News and commentary on organized crime, street crime, white collar crime, cyber crime, sex crime, crime fiction, crime prevention, espionage and terrorism. The narrow win will come as a relief to Switzerlands main political parties, which mostly supported plans for the e-ID. Photograph: Westend61 GmbH/Alamy Swiss voters have backed plans for electronic identity cards by a wafer-thin margin, in the second nationwide vote on the issue. In a referendum on Sunday, 50.4% of voters supported an electronic ID card, while 49.6% were against, confounding pollsters who had forecast stronger support for the yes vote. Turnout was 49.55%, higher than expected. The narrow win will come as a relief to Switzerlands main political parties, which had mostly supported plans for the e-ID. Both houses of the Swiss parliament had backed the measure with large majorities and the government had recommended a yes vote. But voters rejected an earlier version of the e-ID in 2021, largely over objections to the role of private companies in the system. In response to these concerns, the Swiss state will now provide the e-ID, which will be optional and free of charge. The referendum came soon after the UK government announced plans for a digital ID card, which would sit in the digital wallets of smartphones, using state-of-the-art encryption. More than 1.6 million people have signed a petition opposing e-ID cards, which would be mandatory for people working in the UK by 2029. The Swiss authorities said the e-ID would help people prove their identity online, making it easier to access government services or prove their age, for example when buying alcohol. The e-ID, which is linked to a smartphone, can also be used in bricks and mortar businesses, for instance, to open a bank account or prove age in bars and clubs. To ensure security the e-ID is linked to a single smartphone, users will have to get a new e-ID if they change their device. Related: Starmers ID plan has caused upset, but in the EU the debate has long been settled Swiss people could still choose to use a physical ID card, which has been in place for decades. An ID card containing biometric data fingerprints will be available from the end of next year. Critics of the e-ID scheme raised data protection concerns and said it opened the door to mass surveillance. They also fear the voluntary scheme will become mandatory and disadvantage people without smartphones. The referendum was called after a coalition of rightwing and data-privacy parties collected more than 50,000 signatures against e-ID cards, triggering the vote. Political scientist Lukas Golder told Swiss public television, SRF, that since the Covid pandemic he had seen growing mistrust of state solutions, particularly in conservative regions. The government argued digital ID would boost the Swiss economy by bringing the non-EU country in line with its neighbours. By the end of 2026 all EU citizens should be able to have a digital wallet, allowing people to store ID cards, driving licences and university diplomas in one place online, so they can prove identity and have easier access to government and private business services. The digital wallet is voluntary, based on open-source code and is being tested by 550 public authorities and private companies in the EU, Norway, Iceland and Ukraine. Some countries have already taken this path. For more than two decades, Estonians have had e-ID cards, which are used to vote, digitally sign documents, access public services and shop online. In Ukraine, 14 million people are said to use the Diia app and website, which allows people to store digital documents, including passports and ID cards, and access state services, such as paying traffic fines and updating driving licences. Three Big Brother contestants have been put up for eviction after spending just hours in the house on the launch episode for the reality shows latest series. It came after presenters AJ Odudu and Will Best opened the ITV2 show saying the OG is back, and Big Brother is here to play, before revealing the first eviction would take place on the series first night. At the start of the show, Odudu said: For one unlucky person, the journey will end before its even got started, because tonight one housemate will be evicted on night one. Best told viewers a pipe outside the house had an important role to play, with each housemate given an eye which rolled down it to take into the house. He later added that viewers had a short amount of time to vote for the contestant they want to give an evil eye to, making them eligible for eviction. Three housemates were cursed with an evil eye 27-year-old Zumba instructor Sam, from Skipton, 25-year-old Emily, from Northampton, who works for a political events company, and Caroline, a former PR, who said she was once told to shut up by Kylie Minogue. Before entering the house Emily said she was a Conservative Party member and described former British prime minister Boris Johnson as a big cuddly teddy bear, and as she entered to boos she told the presenters she is hoping to meet my hubby in the house. Before entering the house, 56-year-old Caroline said: Ive been engaged five times, Ive tried to live with men and I just cant, theres something wrong with them. The trio were sent to the exit room, where it will be revealed in the shows next episode who has been made to leave without saying goodbye to their fellow housemates. It came after the first housemate to enter was Pizza Hut night manager Gani, 39, from Bromley, who was shaking as he entered, saying Im a bit nervous. The contestant, who is originally from Chennai, India, said before entering: (In) 2022 I explored the sexuality of bi (bisexual), I tried it and I loved it, if you get a dish you dont try, you dont know. Somerset farmer Cameron was the second to enter the house, telling Odudu and Best its quite exciting, isnt it, before adding he wanted to fly the flag for British farming during his time on the show. Before entering the house, the 22-year-old said: Ive only ever been to London three times before, and I think two of which were for farming protests. Its going to be quite interesting to sort of see how I do sort of hopefully making friends or not, who knows? Italian-born Scottish gamer Nancy, 22, from Glasgow, who speaks five languages, was the third contestant to enter, and said anything would get her riled up in the house. Zelah was the fifth contestant to arrive in the house, and before entering the 25-year-old personal trainer from south London said they had lived as a woman for 23 years of their life. The contestant said: I think Im living proof that being transgender is not a choice, because why would I choose to go from the luxury, the sanctuary, that is the womens toilets, to the horror that is the mens. Teja, 18, from Bristol, who was the sixth housemate to enter the house, runs a cleaning business with her mother, and said she did not know how she was going to cope without her. Mechanical engineer and former member of the Royal Navy, Marcus, 22, from Manchester, said he got offended when girls say to me, you dont look like an engineer as he entered the house. Contestant Tate, the owner of a buff butler company in Scotland, entered the house, telling viewers the further north you go, the more ravenous the women seem to get. The 27-year-old was followed by 21-year-old Elsa, who claimed she could see dead people, compared herself to Tinkerbell, and said she had a very powerful aura. The final contestant to enter the house was 20-year-old make-up artist Jenny, from Londonderry, who said she once pretended to be a flight attendant on a flight. Big Brother continues on Monday at 9pm on ITV2 and ITVX. Nigel Edge faces charges in the shooting at American Fish Company in Southport on Saturday night. Three people were killed when he opened fire from a boat, cops say (WECT/Brunswick County Sheriff's Office) Three people were killed and at least five others were injured when a gunman on a boat opened fire on patrons at a waterfront bar in a coastal North Carolina town in what police say was a highly premeditated attack. Nigel Edge, 40, was arrested and charged with three counts of first-degree murder, five counts of attempted first-degree murder and five counts of assault with a deadly weapon, Southport Police Chief Todd Coring said at a Sunday press conference. The shooting, which erupted about 9:30 p.m. Saturday, took place along a popular stretch of bars and restaurants in the historic port town about 30 miles south of Wilmington. Investigators said the suspect was traveling by boat along the Cape Fear River around 9:30 p.m. Saturday, when he paused briefly in front of the waterfront establishment American Fish Company, and began shooting. The gunman then fled along the Intracoastal Waterway toward Oak Island. Roughly half an hour later, a U.S. Coast Guard crew spotted a person matching the suspects description pulling a boat from the water at a public ramp on Oak Island. The person was detained and turned over to Southport police for questioning, officials said. Edge is being held at the Brunswick County Detention Center with no bond and is set to be in court on Monday. Authorities have not given additional details about the attack, only that it was premeditated and that the restaurant was a targeted location. Nigel Edge faces charges in the shooting at American Fish Company in Southport on Saturday night. Three people were killed when he opened fire from a boat, cops say. (Brunswick County Sheriff's Office) The victims killed in the shooting have not been publicly identified. Local district attorney Jon David said that among the five people hospitalized, at least one is now clinging for their life. Some of the victims were vacationers, he added. Evil has come ashore in Southport, North Carolina, David said. Ironically enough, at the very place which once served as a backdrop to the movie Safe Haven, he added, referring to the 2013 movie. Oak Island Police Chief Charlie Morris said the suspect was known to police as someone who frequently hung out on our pier, and that he had filed lawsuits against the town and police department over the last few years, according to the Associated Press. The district attorney said Edge had had minor contacts with police in the past but nothing significant in his past which would give us any indication that he was capable of such horror. The incident initially drew an active shooter response, with the city urging residents to stay inside and report suspicious activity. A motive for the deadly shooting has not been released. (WECT) Investigators from multiple agencies including the State Bureau of Investigation and the Coast Guard remained on the water and at the scene Sunday to collect evidence and interviewing witnesses. The police chief said there is no longer a threat to the public. Coring called it a very tragic night for the tight-knit coastal community. Southport is located near the mouth of the Cape Fear River, about 30 miles south of Wilmington. Were a small community, one of the communities where everybody knows everybody, the chief said. Its just a very tragic night. Three women have been indicted by a federal grand jury for allegedly following an Immigration and Customs Enforcement agent back to his home and posting his address on social media, according to the U.S. Department of Defense. The women are Cynthia Raygoza, 37, of Riverside; Sandra Carmona Samane, 25, of Panaroma City, California; and Ashleigh Brown, 38, of Aurora, Colorado. Each of the women are charged with one count of conspiracy and one count of publicly disclosing the personal information of a federal agent. "The defendants livestreamed on their Instagram accounts their pursuit of the victim and provided directions as they followed the victim home, encouraging their viewers to share the livestream," the DOJ said in a statement. After allegedly following the agent home, prosecutors say the women shouted to bystanders that their neighbor is an ICE agent, that "la migra" Spanish slang for immigration police "lives here," and that "ICE lives on your street and you should know." Three women Cynthia Raygoza, 37, of Riverside; Sandra Carmona Samane, 25, of Panaroma City, California; and Ashleigh Brown, 38, of Aurora, Colorado have been indicted by a grand jury for allegedly following an Immigrations and Customs Enforcement agent to his house and sharing his address on social media (AP) The women have also been accused of sharing the ICE agent's address and inviting their followers to "come on down." Brown has been charged in a separate case with assaulting a federal officer, and Raygoza is still being sought by federal authorities. If they are convicted, each woman could face a maximum of five years in prison for each count. "Our brave federal agents put their lives on the line every day to keep our nation safe," Acting U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli said in a statement. "The conduct of these defendants are deeply offensive to law enforcement officers and their families. If you threaten, dox or harm in any manner one of our agents or employees, you will face prosecution and prison time." The indictments come just a day after Attorney General Pam Bondi announced that she is deploying Department of Justice agents to help protect ICE agents and facilities. Attorney General Pam Bondi has ordered Department of Justice agents to defend ICE facilities and agents (AP) At my direction, I am deploying DOJ agents to ICE facilitiesand wherever ICE comes under siegeto safeguard federal agents, protect federal property, and immediately arrest all individuals engaged in any federal crime, Bondi said in a post on X. She also said she was directing the Joint Terrorism Task Forces to "disrupt and investigate all entities and individuals engaged in acts of domestic terrorism, including the repeated acts of violence and obstruction against federal agents. The Department of Justice will seek the most serious available charges against all participants in these criminal mobs," Bondi said. The crackdown on anyone opposing ICE comes in the wake of a shooting at a Dallas ICE facility by Joshua Jahn, 29, who died at the scene. None of the federal agents were injured in the shooting, but three detainees were shot, and one died. Tom Cruise is said to be looking up properties in the Cotswolds (Ian West/PA) (PA Wire) Tom Cruise looks set to be the latest A-list celebrity to move to the Cotswolds, after reportedly scouting out multi-million pound properties in the area. The Hollywood star's personal assistant is understood to be surveying luxury homes in the neighbourhood, which is home to the likes of Ellen DeGeneres, Beyonce and Jay Z and Cruise's close friends David and Victoria Beckham. Beyond celebrities, scores of billionaires and politicians live in the rural destination. Former Prime Minister David Cameron, who represented Chipping Norton as MP, still lives in the town, while Jeremy Clarkson runs his farm and pub The Farmer's Dog in nearby Burford. But the prospect of Cruise, 63, joining their ranks has left some locals feeling disgruntled, The Mail on Sunday reports. One Charlbury resident said: We call it the American invasion. Tom Cruise will be yet another American celebrity who wont integrate into the community. Other villagers have complained that stars dont speak to us and prefer to frequent upmarket venues such as The Bull in Charlbury while ignoring local pubs. The gastropub recently hosted a pre-wedding dinner for Steve Jobs daughter Eve and Olympian Harry Charles, with former US Vice President Kamala Harris among the guests. US Vice President JD Vances family holiday to the hamlet of Dean last month sparked road closures, police checkpoints and the arrival of sniffer dogs fuelling resentment among locals. Protesters waved signs telling Vance to go home and make Charlbury great again. Cruise, however, is likely to be welcomed by friends David and Victoria Beckham, who live in a converted farmhouse in nearby Great Tew. Also close by is the exclusive members club Soho Farmhouse, where Cruise marked his 60th birthday in 2022 alongside guests including James Corden and Gordon Ramsay. The actors property empire already includes several mansions in Beverly Hills and a 35million penthouse in Knightsbridge, west London. He is dating Cuban actress Ana de Armas, 37, who he met while filming in Oxfordshire last year. In May, they were caught at David Beckhams 50th birthday party together and seen taking a private helicopter ride to London. In May, de Armas revealed she was working on a few film projects with Cruise and directors Doug Liman and Christopher McQuarrie. The couple were also seen at an Oasis concert in July and last month, they enjoyed a yacht holiday on the Spanish island of Menorca and last week they were seen touching down in London together. Residents of Basingstoke were surprised to see the real Spider-Man performing a series of dramatic stunts in their Hampshire town on Sunday. Bafta-winning actor Tom Holland, 29, suffered a head injury on 19 September, completely suspending filming for the long-awaited superhero sequel, Spider-Man: Brand New Day. This new footage appears to confirm Holland has returned to work after time off recuperating. New footage appears to confirm Holland has returned to work after time off recuperating (Solent News) The area between Fanum House, a former Alcoholics Anonymous headquarters and Mountbatten House in Basingstoke, was transformed into 1970s New York for the shooting, according to the Daily Mail. The scene featured a Spider-Man (unclear whether Holland or a stunt double) calling on armed police while sliding across a mat and being pulled by an army truck. Another behind-the-scenes shot showed the camouflaged truck smashing through a set of gates while the web-slinger was surrounded by prop gun-wielding soldiers. The star in the teaser for Spider-Man: Brand New Day (Marvel Studios) Filming for the fourth instalment was stalled after Holland was reported to have suffered a concussion after his stunt line snapped and he felt dizzy, according to reports. Paramedics were called to the scene at Leavesden Studios in Watford. The Hollywood actor, who is set to star in the film alongside his fiancee Zendaya, gave fans a health update on Saturday after his parents charity, The Brothers Trust, held a gala to raise awareness and funds for its cause. Im sorry I had to leave early but Im feeling better and on the mend, he wrote in the post on Instagram, after thanking his parents. Spider-Man: Brand New Day was unveiled by director Destin Daniel Cretton at CinemaCon in March earlier this year, with Holland describing the film as a fresh start. I know we left you with a massive cliffhanger at the end of No Way Home, so Spider-Man: Brand New Day is a fresh start. It is exactly that. Thats all I can say, Holland said in a video. message broadcast at the event. Insiders told Deadline that the actor, who is set to star in Christopher Nolans forthcoming epic The Odyssey, would be taking a break from filming for a few days out of precaution and would be returning. Trump demanded federal Troops go to Portland to protect ICE facility. Arrests outside it have been dropping for months President Donald Trump has demanded that federal troops be deployed to Portland, Oregon, to protect immigration facilities from protesters even though the number of arrests outside the facility has been dropping now for months. Trump on Saturday ordered Pete Hegseth to deploy troops to protect war-ravaged Portland, and any of our ICE Facilities under siege from attack by Antifa, and other domestic terrorists, the president wrote on Truth Social. It was not immediately clear how many troops would be sent or when their deployment would begin. In response to the news, Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek insisted the state didnt need backup, saying during a press conference, We dont need help. We got this. Data published Saturday by The Oregonian appeared to confirm Koteks claims that the situation is under control. While large-scale protests were held outside Portlands Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility in June, resulting in 18 arrests, the number of arrests at the facility ever since has dwindled, according to the report. A quiet U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility is shown on Saturday, Sept. 27, 2025 in Portland (AP) After peaking in June, four people were charged on July 4 following another large anti-ICE protest. In recent weeks, no more than several dozen demonstrators have gathered each day in protest outside the facility, according to the report. The people arrested have faced numerous accusations in federal court, including vandalizing the ICE field office, disrupting the electronic key card reader at the buildings entrance, blocking federal vehicles from leaving the property, throwing rocks or sticks at officers, shining lasers into officers eyes and barricading the entry gate. They face federal charges ranging from felony aggravated assault of a federal officer to destruction of government property and misdemeanor failure to follow lawful orders, according to the report. Officers from Federal Protective Services, which handles security at federal buildings, as well as Homeland Security, Border Patrol and ICE have all made arrests. Portland police also arrested about two dozen people related to protests in June. Most of those charged in federal court have been released while awaiting trial. At least three people have been sentenced to six months of probation after pleading guilty to failing to follow a lawful order, a misdemeanor. Five more people are scheduled to enter guilty pleas in the next month. Even though the protests have decreased in size and force in recent months, Trump on Saturday demanded troops be deployed and authorized Full Force, if necessary. Only several dozen protesters have continued demonstrating daily outside the ICE facility in Portland, despite Trumps claims that the situation has gotten out of hand, according to a report (Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.) We have the situation under control with the ICE facility in Portland. Theres not a problem at the federal facility, and when there is a situation that requires police enforcement, it is happening and we are holding people accountable, Kotek said. Portland Mayor Keith Wilson responded to Trumps demand in a statement, writing, "President Trump has directed 'all necessary Troops' to Portland, Oregon. The number of necessary troops is zero, in Portland and any other American city. Our nation has a long memory for acts of oppression, and the president will not find lawlessness or violence here unless he plans to perpetrate it. Imagine if the federal government sent hundreds of engineers, or teachers, or outreach workers to Portland, instead of a short, expensive, and fruitless show of force." Kotek and other city leaders also noted that the demonstrations outside the ICE building are much smaller than the nightly protests downtown after George Floyds killing in 2020. Leading up to Trumps announcement, the president claimed that crazy people in Portland were attempting to set buildings on fire, including federal facilities. The announcement also came days after a shooting at an ICE facility in Dallas, which left one person dead. If federal forces are sent to Portland, it would represent the latest in a series of contentious military deployments to U.S. cities, including Los Angeles, Washington, D.C., and possibly Memphis. All of the cities facing Trumps wrath are Democratic-run. Donald Trump will meet the top four congressional leaders at the White House on Monday, the day before a deadline to fund or shut down the federal government. The meeting involving House Speaker Mike Johnson and Senate Majority Leader John Thune, as well as House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, was confirmed to The Associated Press on Saturday by a White House official and two other people familiar with the planning. President Trump has once again agreed to a meeting in the Oval Office. As we have repeatedly said, Democrats will meet anywhere, at any time and with anyone to negotiate a bipartisan spending agreement that meets the needs of the American people, Schumer and Jeffries said in a joint statement on Saturday night. We are resolute in our determination to avoid a government shutdown and address the Republican healthcare crisis. Time is running out. The parties have been in a standoff for days as Democrats, namely in the Senate, have refused to offer the necessary votes to pass a funding measure that would keep the government open beyond Tuesday. Absent any action, a shutdown would begin at 12:01 a.m. ET on Wednesday. (AP) Absent any action, a shutdown would begin at 12:01 a.m. ET on Wednesday. Democrats had secured a meeting with Trump until Republican leaders intervened and the president called it off. But Schumer spoke privately with Thune on Friday, pushing the majority leader to get a meeting with Trump scheduled because of the approaching funding deadline, according to an aide for Schumer. As rank-and-file Democrats begin to question their leaderships unsustainable position, Sen. Schumer is clearly getting nervous, Ryan Wrasse, a spokesman for Thune, responded Saturday night. Theres an easy way out, and theyll get a chance to take it next week. Democrats, believing they have leverage, have insisted on key health care provisions in exchange for their votes. They want an extension of subsidies that help low- and middle-income earners purchase insurance through the Affordable Care Act. Democrats are also insisting on reversing cuts to Medicaid that were included the GOPs signature tax measure earlier this year. Republicans say those demands are nonstarters and that they are willing to have a conversation with Democrats on those issues separate from government funding talks. The GOP is asking for a straight extension of current funding for seven weeks. Earlier in the week, Johnson acknowledged he had encouraged Trump not to meet with the Democratic leaders. He and I talked about it at length yesterday and the day before. I said, look, when they get their job done, once they do the basic governing work of keeping the government open, as president, then you can have a meeting with him, Johnson said on the Mike & McCarty Show in his home state of Louisiana. Of course, it might be productive at that point, but right now, this is just a waste of his time. Ukraine is working on a deal to sell its drones to the US as well as a major arms purchase from Washington, Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said. Kyiv has prepared a list of about $90bn worth of American weapons that it wants to buy, with Ukrainian officials set to visit the US this month or next for talks. Ukraines president said he had shared with US president Donald Trump a certain vision of what could be done to respond to Russias actions. In addition to the large arms deal, which we call the mega deal, we also discussed the drone deal. Technical groups are already starting to work on this deal, Zelenskyy told reporters on Saturday. It concerns drones that the United States will purchase directly from Ukraine. Zelenskyy announced on Saturday that Israel had for the first time supplied Ukraine with a US-made Patriot anti-missile defence system. The Israeli [Patriot] system is operating in Ukraine. It has been operating for a month. We will receive two Patriot systems in the fall, Zelenskyy told reporters. Kyiv came under heavy bombardment early on Sunday in what independent monitors said was one of the biggest Russian attacks on the Ukrainian capital since Moscow launched its full-scale war more than three and a half years ago. Drones flew over the city and surrounding region and anti-aircraft fire rang out through the night. Some residents fled to metro stations deep underground for safety. Many regions across the country were under air raid alert. Poland closed the airspace near its south-eastern cities of Lublin and Rzeszow and the Polish military said it scrambled aircraft to ensure the security of its airspace after Russia launched strikes on Ukraine. In connection with the activity of the Russian Federations long-range aviation carrying out strikes on the territory of Ukraine, Polish and allied aircraft have begun operating in our airspace, the military said in a post on X. It described the actions as preventive and aimed at securing airspace and protecting citizens. The United Nations has reimposed sanctions on Iran over accusations that the country violated a nuclear deal. Britain, France and Germany triggered the return of sanctions on Iran at the UN Security Council after Tehran allegedly violated the 2015 deal aimed at stopping it from developing a nuclear bomb. The end of the nuclear deal originally agreed by Iran, Britain, Germany, France, the US, Russia and China is likely to further exacerbate tensions in the Middle East, months after Israel and the US bombed Iranian nuclear sites. Iran denies trying to build nuclear weapons, and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said on Friday that Tehran had no intention of leaving the 2015 non-proliferation treaty. After the UN sanctions were reinstated, Iran warned of a harsh response and recalled its ambassadors to Britain, France and Germany for consultations. Russia and China unsuccessfully tried to delay the return of UN sanctions on Iran, with Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov later calling the decision to reinstate them "unlawful". Read more: Some of Iran's nuclear facilities were 'destroyed' by US strikes, nuclear chief admits "It cannot be implemented," he told reporters at the UN. He added that he had written to Antonio Guterres, the UN secretary-general, to warn him that it would be a "major mistake" for him to acknowledge a return of sanctions on Iran. Britain, France and Germany had offered to delay reimposing the sanctions for up to six months to allow time for talks on a long-term deal. In return, the European powers were asking for Tehran to restore access for UN nuclear inspectors, address concerns about its stock of enriched uranium, and engage in talks with the US. "Our countries will continue to pursue diplomatic routes and negotiations. The reimposition of UN sanctions is not the end of diplomacy," the foreign ministers of Britain, France and Germany said in a joint statement. "We urge Iran to refrain from any escalatory action and to return to compliance with its legally binding safeguards obligations." US President Donald Trump believes that diplomacy is still an option for Iran and a new deal remains the best outcome for Iranians and the world, according to US secretary of state Marco Rubio. "For that to happen, Iran must accept direct talks, held in good faith, without stalling or obfuscation," he said after the reinstated sanctions were announced. Mr Rubio added that it was important that countries implement sanctions "immediately in order to pressure Iran's leaders to do what is right for their nation, and best for the safety of the world", and accept a new deal. Read more from Sky News: Russia warns NATO and EU of response against 'aggression' Destruction of Gaza hospital witnessed by nurse The new sanctions on Iran include an arms embargo and a ban on all uranium enrichment, reprocessing activities, the supply of anything that could be used in the country's nuclear programme, and any activity related to ballistic missiles capable of delivering nuclear weapons, including launches. There is also a travel ban on dozens of Iranians, as well as an asset freeze on a dozen Iranian individuals and entities. Iran's economy is already struggling after President Trump reimposed US sanctions during his first term in 2018, and its rial currency fell to a new record low over fears of the new sanctions. WUHAN, China, Sept. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- From September 23-25, EVE Energy showcased its Mr. flagship series products and comprehensive energy storage solutions at Solar & Storage Live UK 2025. During the event, EVE signed a 500MWh strategic cooperation agreement with Polish smart PV system innovator CommVOLT Sp. z o.o. to jointly advance Europe's energy transition. Leading Scale Delivery Demonstrates Large Battery Commercialization Strength Leveraging deep technical expertise and manufacturing excellence, EVE Energy has pioneered key large-scale energy storage battery technologies, being the first to launch and mass-produce the 628Ah ultra-high capacity storage battery. Notably, the 5MWh DC energy storage system Mr.Giant, which integrates Mr.Big cells with minimalistic design, was deployed in a 400MWh-level independent energy storage project in September. Shipments to Australia and Europe have commenced, marking the global application era for EVE's large batteries and systems. Against the backdrop of increasing renewable energy penetration in Europe, grid-side storage is set to be a major growth driver. EVE Energy's Mr. Big cells significantly optimize system integration, reduce heat generation, and enhance simplicity, reliability, and lifecycle cost (LCOS) from the source. The exhibition underscored EVE's commitment to delivering mature, innovative technologies that create core value for customers. 500MWh Strategic Cooperation with CommVOLT At the exhibition, focusing on the growing demand for Commercial and Industrial ESS in Europe, EVE and CommVOLT signed a 500MWh strategic agreement. This deepened partnership will not only integrate products with market needs and improve grid stability and renewable energy absorption but also establish benchmark storage projects in Central and Eastern Europe, accelerating the region's green energy transition. The agreement represents another major large-scale application of EVE's innovative storage technology in Europe, validating its maturity and market competitiveness. It stands as a practical example of EVE Energy sharing technological achievements with global partners to advance green development. Full-Scenario Solutions for Europe's Energy Transition EVE Energy presented a full range of storage solutions tailored to European scenarios including Utility ESS, Commercial and Industrial ESS, Telecom ESS, and Residential ESS. The company is committed to addressing diverse needs for energy security, cost reduction, efficiency, and sustainability through its versatile product portfolio and advanced technology platforms. Moving forward, EVE Energy will continue to innovate and collaborate with outstanding partners worldwide, offering more reliable, safe, and cost-effective energy storage products and solutions to contribute to a cleaner, low-carbon global energy system. Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2783748/image_1.jpg Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2783749/image_2.jpg Dotdash Meredith Food Studios When nothing but fresh cookies will do but you're short on time, prepared cookie dough saves the day. You can stash it in your fridge or freezer for your next emergency dessert, or use it as a starting point for many more amazing treats. Layer the prepared dough with cheesecake filling, form the dough into muffin tins for cups, or bake one large cookie and top with fruit for a sweet pizza. No matter what, ready-to-go dough lets you skip right to creating your next cookie masterpieceno one will know you didn't make it from scratch! 01 of 12 Cookie Cups Allrecipes Toasted around the edges and chewy in the middle, these cookie cups made from refrigerated cookie dough will add a whole new level of fun to your next ice cream sundae bar! Plus, you can easily make them ahead of time for easy party prep. View Recipe 02 of 12 Apple Dessert Pizza Photographer: Brie Goldman / Food Styling: Annie Probst / Prop Styling: Sue Mitchell Storebought refrigerated sugar cookie dough acts as a shortcut for this sweet dessert pizza topped with a lemony maple-mascarpone spread and buttery cooked apple slices, tart dried cranberries, and crunchy pistachios. View Recipe 03 of 12 Chocolate Chip Cookie Millionaire Bars Dotdash Meredith Food Studios "Like a cookie meshed with a candy bar in the most decadent way," says recipe creator Tricia Manzanero. View Recipe 04 of 12 Cheesecake-Stuffed Snickerdoodle Recipe Sunny Yue "I actually bake my cookies in an air fryer and it turns out perfect! The cheesecake within the baked cookies are absolutely match made in heaven! Definitely make it again someday :)" QuirkyScale4891 View Recipe 05 of 12 Fruit Pizza Unknown This gorgeous pizza looks like a fancy fruit tart, but couldn't be simpler. A base of prepared sugar cookie dough bakes until golden, then gets topped with a fluffy cream cheese frosting and any fresh fruit you like. View Recipe 06 of 12 Easy Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Cheesecake Christina "I have been making a similar recipe for years and taking it to events where I needed a fast dessert. I bake it in a jelly roll pan, so it makes lots of big bars. It is the easiest recipe in the world to 'punt' substitutions for whatever you have on hand" CISCOKID View Recipe 07 of 12 Fruit Pizza DOTDASH MEREDITH FOOD STUDIOS "Delicious fruit pizza! I doubled the recipe and baked it on a pizza stone. Turned out beautifully." Jennifer Hawkins View Recipe 08 of 12 The Viral Crookie Dotdash Meredith Food Studios "Quick, super easy, and oh so DELICIOUS!! im retired, I live alone, so I bought a roll of cookie dough and cut it into slices, just enough to make one croissant. I freeze the rest. whenever I have my oven on I bake one of these." Southern Belle View Recipe 09 of 12 Pumpkin Cheesecake Squares Mackenzie Schieck One unexpected yet brilliant addition to these bars? A layer of cinnamon chips that melt into the prepared sugar cookie crust as bakes. The hardest part of this recipe is waiting for the pumpkin filling to set so you can dive in. View Recipe 10 of 12 Tasty Table Lights Kim "What fun cookies! This is definitely one of those recipes you want to make with your kids and family--it's fun, and goes more smoothly with more helping hands!" Kim View Recipe 11 of 12 Coffee-Flavored Cookie Dough Milkshake Chef Mo This recipe yields a smooth cookie dough ice cream milkshake with a hint of coffee flavor. "Let's give this 10 stars!" says Allrecipes member Chef Mo. "Add extra instant coffee!!" View Recipe 12 of 12 Peanut Butter Cup Cookies cookin' mama One reviewer had great success using prepared sugar cookie dough instead of the from-scratch versiona great option to save time. You could even double the peanut butter flavor with prepared peanut butter cookie dough View Recipe Read the original article on Allrecipes SOUTHPORT, N.C. A lone gunman killed three people and injured five others at a packed North Carolina waterfront bar late Saturday in what police described as a highly premeditated attack. Nigel Max Edge, 40, was detained by the Coast Guard and charged with three counts of first-degree murder, five counts of attempted murder and five counts of assault with a deadly weapon on Sunday morning. Court records do not list an attorney for Edge, and jail records show he remains in custody without bond. Southport Police Chief Todd Coring said that officers were dispatched to the American Fish Company at around 9:30 p.m. on Saturday night. According to reports, the shots came from a boat in the waterway outside of the bar. He acted alone, Coring told reporters Sunday morning. This is highly premeditated, from what were seeing at this time, and we feel there are no other threats to our community. The three people killed were not publicly identified. Dosher Memorial Hospital confirmed in a statement that its staff treated two patients for gunshot wounds. Both were stabilized and released to go home. District Attorney John David described one of the victims as clinging to life. Edge allegedly fled the scene on his boat and headed toward the neighboring community of Oak Island, officials said. Edge is a resident of Oak Island, where local police said they were aware of him. A U.S. Coast Guard crew detained Edge and turned him over to the Oak Island Police after spotting him allegedly loading a boat at a public ramp in the town. Todd Weaver, a local resident, told NBC News that he was near the entrance of the American Fish Company when he began hearing what he first thought were fireworks. But when the popping sounds grew faster and people started running or dropping down, Weaver realized what was happening. He called 911 and then walked to the end of the bar, where he saw a boat going real slow with his lights off. Weaver said he stayed on the phone with 911 until the boat was out of sight. And then I turned around and saw people just laying everywhere that were shot, Weaver said. One of Weavers friends was grazed in the thigh but was released from the hospital after getting stitches, he said. Weaver said he saw one person shot in the head and another person who appeared to be shot in the stomach. Hes shaken after the shooting, left wondering why this would happen to their community. And then to see the carnage, I just, you never get that out of your head, Weaver said. With somebody shot in the head and sitting there trying to console his wife with her husband dead right beside her. Law enforcement officials from the Oak Island Police, Southport Police, the sheriffs office and the State Bureau of Investigation searched Edges boat, vehicle and residence. Officials did not provide many details but said an assault rifle was found during the search. Court records show that Edge changed his name in 2023 from Sean William Debevoise. Coring told reporters that Edge is a self-described combat veteran who was injured in the line of duty and suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder. Edge served in the Marines from September 2003 through June 2009, according to military records. He attained the rank of sergeant and was deployed twice as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Records from the Marines show he received numerous awards, including a Purple Heart, Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal, Combat Action Ribbon for Iraq and an Iraq Campaign Medal with two bronze stars. Edges ex-wife, Rachel Crowl, told NBC News that she has not spoken to her ex-husband in about a decade. Court records show their divorce was finalized in 2009. Crowl said he had been crying out for help for a long time regarding his behavior and mental health. Referring to Edge by his prior name, Crowl added that what Sean did was very wrong. Im sad for these families. Im sad nobody helped him and this could have maybe been prevented, Crowl said. Oak Island Police Chief Charlie Morris said that Edge was known to his officers, as Edge frequently hung out on our pier. He also filed several lawsuits against the town of Oak Island within the last couple of years, Morris said. The district attorney described the victims as vacationers visiting the waterfront bar, where live music was playing. The yacht basin is in the southeastern corner of the state, where the Intracoastal Waterway, Cape Fear River and Atlantic Ocean converge, according to state tourism organization Visit North Carolina. The basin is lined with restaurants, it says. David, the DA, noted that the area once served as the backdrop to the 2013 film Safe Haven, an adaptation of the popular Nicholas Sparks novel. And that name is symbolic of the way in which the people in our community view this area, David said. The suspect, Nigel Edge, faces murder, attempted murder and assault charges in the Saturday night shooting. (WECT) A 40-year-old Marine veteran who pulled up to a waterfront North Carolina bar by boat fatally shot three people Saturday night, authorities say, shattering the peaceful atmosphere of a community rarely touched by violent crime. Out-of-towners were enjoying the warm weather and music on an outdoor deck at the American Fish Company in Southport, a small and tranquil city near the mouth of the Cape Fear River, when gunshots rang out. Eight people were injured and at least one victim is now clinging for their life, Jon David, district attorney for North Carolinas Judicial District 5, said at a Sunday morning news conference. Nigel Edge, who received a Purple Heart for his service in Iraq, was arrested Sunday and charged with three counts of first-degree murder, five counts of attempted first-degree murder and five counts of assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill, Southport Police Chief Todd Coring said Sunday. Police think Edge acted alone and said the attack was highly premeditated. CNN is working to identify whether Edge has an attorney. Additional charges are still possible, Coring said. Edge was taken into custody when the US Coast Guard encountered his boat after the attack, according to Oak Island Police Chief Charles A. Morris II. The shooting in a small, idyllic waterfront community adds to the growing list of bars, restaurants, shopping centers, schools and other venues in the US generally thought of as safe that have experienced gun violence. There have been at least 324 mass shootings defined as when at least four people are shot, not including the shooter in the US so far this year, according to the Gun Violence Archive. Evil has come ashore in Southport, North Carolina, David said, describing the community as a place where violent crime is virtually nonexistent. The attack is one of two mass shootings allegedly committed by Iraq War veterans over the weekend. Just a little over 12 hours after the North Carolina shooting, another Marine veteran, Thomas Jacob Sanford, drove his car into a chapel of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc, Michigan, and then opened fire, according to police. Two people were fatally shot and eight injured. Sanford, who then set a fire that grew into a large blaze, was killed at the scene. How the shooting unfolded Just before 9:30 p.m., a boat approached the bar and the sole person onboard opened fire, city public information officer ChyAnn Ketchum said in a news release. The shooter then fled toward the nearby Intracoastal Waterway, heading in the direction of the neighboring community of Oak Island, North Carolina. Many of the victims of the shooting appear to have been visiting Southport on vacation, David said. The shooting unfolded at a waterfront deck, where people were just enjoying live music under the stars, he said. The thread that connects everyone whos a victim in this case to this point just appears to be a love of having a good time and enjoying all that Southport has to offer, he said. David said the victims may be publicly identified Monday, after their families are notified. It was a very chaotic scene when police arrived, Coring said. Im heartbroken by the shooting last night in Southport that tragically took three lives and injured others, North Carolina Gov. Josh Stein said in a statement. He said he and his wife pray for their families and friends. I have been in touch with state and local law enforcement, and the state will provide any support needed. Southport is a small but strong community. May we all come together to support them as they heal from this horrific shooting, Stein said. Suspect was known to police The suspect is an Oak Island resident and was known to police, Morris, the police chief, said. Edge had filed several lawsuits against the town and the police department in the past years, according to Morris. Edge was a sergeant who served in the Marines from 2003 to 2009, a United States Marines Corps spokesperson told CNN. He deployed in Operation Iraqi Freedom, the 2003 invasion of Iraq. He received a variety of awards for his service, including a Purple Heart awarded to service members who suffer wounds in combat and a Humanitarian Service Medal, the spokesperson said. His last assignment was in Wounded Warrior Battalion East, a North Carolina center that supports injured Marines. Nigel Edge, pictured in this mugshot, received several awards for his service in the Marines. - City of Southport Edge who had changed his name from Sean DeBevoise was featured in local news articles that discussed his service and his road to recovery from the injuries he sustained. In the past several years, Edge had filed a string of civil lawsuits with rambling, sometimes conspiratorial claims. One lawsuit against the Department of Veteran Affairs was filed September 24, less than a week before the shooting. Edge is set to appear in court on Monday. Hes being held without bond, according to the district attorney. A motive has not been determined, but there is no known further credible threat to the public, the city release said. Southport is located near the mouth of the Cape Fear River, roughly 30 miles south of Wilmington. This story has been updated with additional information. CNNs Dianne Gallagher contributed to this report. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Janene Moodley Storm, Cassidy and Connor Moodley. NEED TO KNOW Two sisters, Cassidy and Connor Moodley, are dead and another was seriously injured after they crashed coming home from a graduation party in South Africa on Sept. 14 Their older sister Storm managed to call their mom from the scene with the help of the stranger who found them She was told about her sisters deaths later that evening and spent the next several days in the hospital before she was discharged Three sisters in their 20s were traveling home from a cousins graduation party in South Africa when their vehicle crashed earlier this month. Two of the young women later died and their older sister was seriously injured, but managed to call their mom from the scene with the help of a stranger. Their uncle tells PEOPLE that his sister "is really battling with this one." Two of her three girls have now gone," he says. Janene Moodley, a 49-year-old single mom, lived with daughters Cassidy, 22, Connor, 24, and Storm, 27, in Johannesburg. Their bond was a powerful one, propelling them forward as they navigated their individual goals. These were bubbly little personalities, loved by everybody, says their 54-year-old uncle Lance Poonawassy. They were well on their way to reaching their dreams. The siblings were seriously adamant about attending their cousin Keeran Poonawassys college graduation party in Cape Town the first big family gathering since their grandfathers death three years prior. What an awesome time, lots of fun, tears of joy, says Lance of his 27-year-old son's celebration on Friday, Sept. 12. But just two days later, the family was living a nightmare. That Sunday morning, the Moodley sisters headed back to Johannesburg so they could return to their respective jobs. Cassidy, a full-time teacher, was just six months away from attaining her degree in education, while Connor had recently been promoted in her role as a personal assistant. Meanwhile, Storm, who works in finance, had just finished up a contract. Janene Moodley Caitlin Jade Poonawassy, Storm Moodley, Keeran Poonawassy, Connor Moodley and Cassidy Moodley. Janene, who was unable to attend the party, spoke with the trio on the phone about what they wanted to eat when they got home. Just 30 minutes later, when they were about halfway through their trip, Lance says the vehicle blew a tire while Connor was driving. Unfortunately, the car veered off the road and it then rolled about 300 meters, he recalls of the crash that occurred not far from Britstown in Klein Karoo, a scenic valley surrounded by mountains. All three of them were actually flung out of the car. The South African Police Service did not immediately respond to PEOPLE's request for comment. Visiting the scene later was jarring, says Lance. The road was straight, with no bends, and he says rubber marks can be seen where the tire burst and Connor tried to brake. It took about 40 minutes after the crash before a passerby came across the scene, according to their uncle. The younger sisters were unconscious, but Storm was able to speak. She could give her mom's cell phone number, and they actually made the call from her phone to her mom about 45 minutes after the crash had happened, says Lance. He was the first person Janene spoke to after the phone call that shocked her to her core. She was totally distraught, Lance remembers. She was in absolute shock. None of the Moodley sisters' family members were nearby. Lance, Janene and other loved ones traveled hours to reach the young women, but Connor and Cassidy died en route to the hospital, according to their uncle. Storm survived but suffered bruising and cuts to her body and was treated for bleeding on the brain. Lance says that initially his sister wouldnt believe her two youngest had died until she saw them for herself. They were in gurneys lying on the floor, and she was holding both of them in total disbelief, just distraught, says Lance of the memory he cant forget. She just cried. Janene Moodley Janene (center right) with her three daughters. Storm was told about her sisters deaths that evening and spent the next several days in the hospital before she was discharged. She's now recovering at home as both she and her mom grapple with their loss. They would do everything, literally everything together with their mom, says Lance, who adds that the three sisters had told him they were already making plans for Janene's 50th birthday next summer. And it's absolutely difficult for her now. The grieving mom shared her heartbreak on social media. The day of the crash, she posted a picture of herself with Connor. My poppet, losing you and Cass is, by far, [the] greatest weight Ive ever had to carry. In pieces [right now], Janene captioned the photo. On Friday, Sept. 19, she shared her gratitude for the support her family had received since that life-altering weekend. Janene Moodley Connor, Storm, Cassidy and Janene Moodley. Tomorrow, my girls will conclude their journey on this earth, Janene wrote ahead of the funeral on Saturday, Sept. 20. From the depths of our shattered hearts, my family and I would like to express our deepest gratitude for the overwhelming love and support weve received since our nightmare began on Sunday. The womens alma mater, Roosevelt High School in Roosevelt Park, also took to social media to share a moving tribute to Cassidy and Connor. These two remarkable young women were the very definition of sunshine in human form, and their absence has left a void that words can scarcely describe, wrote the school in a joint post attributed to the principal, staff and students. Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. The Moodley sisters were more than siblings; they were one, the school concluded. Together with their mom, lovingly known as Neen, and their older sister, Storm, they formed an unbreakable bond. Our hearts ache for Janene and Storm, who are carried in our thoughts and prayers during this devastating time. Read the original article on People Sometimes kids tell you what they need directly while other times you need to put some effort into understanding whats going on. A young child, for example, may not have the language they need to articulate what theyre feeling, but a teen may be evasive because theyre anxious about confiding something personal. Its not possible for you to foresee every tricky scenario that your kid will bring to you or even know exactly how to respond in that moment. It is your job to listen to your child, to make space for them to tell you what theyre feeling and to reach out for more help when necessary. Family: Is Taylor Swift Responsible For This Baby Name's Surging Popularity? For guidance, we asked a number of mental health professionals what phrases kids say that you should never ignore. Heres what they had to say. Statements About Their Identity Your child may want to disclose something to you about who they are. Dr. Michelle Forcier, a clinician at Folx Health, an LGBTQ+ health care provider, told HuffPost that kids may say something like: I want to talk to you. I have something important to share. Do you have time to ... Would you love me no matter what? I think I might be ____ (gay, bi, pan, trans, nonbinary, etc.) In these cases, listen attentively to your child, thank them for sharing this with you and reaffirm your love for them. If they approach you at a moment when you cant talk, make sure your child knows that what they have to say is important to you. Family: How To Foster Empathy In Your Kids Even when you are busy, look them in the eye and say, I hear you and want to hear more. Can we wait 20 minutes until I am off the phone with ... then we can sit down and in private have all the time you need to talk and for me to listen, advised Forcier. A child sharing deeply personal information or self-truths is a true gift, she continued. Kristin Wilson, a licensed professional counselor with Newport Healthcare, told HuffPost: The fact that your kids are coming to you with a struggle or issue that theyre facing really speaks volumes to your relationship. They brought up the topic because they feel safe with you. You should thank your child for sharing this with you and show them how much it means to you by giving them your full attention. Family: The Surprising Way Men's Brains Change After They Become Parents If you do not honor this gift by making time and room for it, your child may not choose to try and share again, Forcier said. Statements About Feeling Low If a kid is struggling socially or with their self-image, they might say things like: I hate myself. I hate my body. Im dumb. Im lonely. I dont want to go to school. If the issue is anxiety or some other stress, they could say something vague, such as: Im scared. Im worried. It can be hard to differentiate lifes regular ups-and-downs from something more serious, so its important to ask follow-up questions and get more information. Parenting: 5 Things Adults Shouldnt Discuss In Front Of Kids (And 5 Surprising Things They Should) I would encourage parents just to lean in to find out what might be the source of stress, Chinwe Williams, a licensed professional counselor, told HuffPost. She added that parents sometimes equate Im lonely with Im bored, but the two statements can mean very different things. Williams suggested following up by saying, That sounds really hard. Can you tell me more about that? It could be that a child is missing a particular friend. Or they may feel a more general kind of aloneness. Another way in, she said, could be offering Can I tell you a story about that? Talk about a time in your life when you felt alone (or whatever your child is feeling), and then ask your child, Is that do you feel? Do you feel something similar to mom (or to dad)? Tell me about your experience. Parents should keep in mind that something which seems trivial to you may be meaningful to your child, Elisabeth Kane, a psychologist at Childrens Nebraska, told HuffPost. But this doesnt need to get in the way of listening to your child, validating their feelings and offering support. You want to set a precedent that you will do the same with any other problem they might bring you in the future. If your child makes an unusual or self-critical comment and you arent sure if you should be concerned, clarification is always a good first step, Kane said. A comment about trouble with a friend, for example, might be an indication of bullying or simply normal peer conflict. You wont know until your child tells you more, and they may not share until you ask. Family: 21 Hilarious Yet Humbling Things Kids Have Said To Their Parents Statements About Self-Harm You arent likely to miss these kinds of statements, but it can be hard to manage your own reaction when your child says something like: I want to die. I just dont want to be here. I have no reason to live. I wish Id never been born. Everyone would be better off without me. I wonder how many people would come to my funeral? This last one, Williams noted, is something a teen might say with a smile on their face, sending you a mixed signal. Likewise, kids will sometimes say things like the statements above or say I hate my life when they are experiencing some sort of temporary distress. Youll have to ask questions and dig deeper to figure out how serious the situation is. Your child may not directly say that they want to hurt themselves, but they may say something like I wish I didnt have to deal with this or My friends would be better off without me, Kane said. In such cases, its important for parents to encourage kids to clarify and explain, saying, for example, What do you mean? What makes you say that? or Can you tell me more? Parents sometimes worry that by asking their children directly about suicidal thoughts, they may somehow introduce these ideas, but experts say its always better to ask. You will not put these ideas in their head by asking. However, asking these questions provides a critical opening for you to help them if needed, Kane said. Williams recalled one teen who signaled the hopelessness they were feeling by saying, Whats the point of all this? It was a vague statement, but it was enough for an attentive family member to realize that they needed help. Statements About Secretive Or Potentially Inappropriate Relationships You dont need to know all the details about your childs social relationships, and teens will want some privacy around romance, but if anything they say about a friend strikes you as strange, its a good idea to turn to those open-ended, curious questions. If your child makes comments about having secrets with another individual or hints at an unusual relationship with them, especially with other adults, this could be a potential indication of harm and is important to follow up on, Kane said. Other Signs Your Child May Have Something They Need To Talk About Of course, not every sign that your child has something to tell you will be verbal. Especially with young children, feelings of anxiety or stress may manifest in physical symptoms, such as stomachaches. You may also notice clinginess in younger children as well as a regression to previous behaviors, like bedwetting or thumb-sucking. With older children, other signs may include significant changes in mood, decreased energy level or withdrawn behavior, changes in sleep and eating habits, frequent physical complaints, coming up with excuses that dont make sense, avoidance of things they usually enjoy or sudden hesitation associated with typically normal activities, Kane said. You know your child best; trust your gut. If you notice something that seems off with your child, you can always ask an open-ended question to start a conversation, she added. When your child does say something that alarms or concerns you, you can respond using these steps: 1. Take a deep breath and try to remain calm. These worrisome kinds of statements need 100% of your attention, Wilson said. So whatever else is going on, it needs to come to a screeching halt. At the same time, you need to try not to panic so you can give them the support theyre looking for. You want to give them your full attention. You want to create space for them to be able to explain what exactly is happening, asking open ended questions, allowing them to narrate their story, their experience for you, Wilson added. 2. Validate their feelings. That sounds really hard is one phrase Williams suggested. She noted that validation doesnt mean that you agree with them, simply that you see their feelings as real. 3. Ask open-ended questions. These should also be non-judgmental. We dont want to be interrogators. We dont want to push too hard, especially with teenagers, Williams said. Kids dont like to feel like you are trying to lead them toward a particular interpretation. A goal is to allow the child to express their thoughts, express their concerns, their feelings, Williams said. Open-ended prompts like Can you tell me more about that? can be helpful. You also dont want to jump in right away with potential solutions. As parents, Williams added, theres a tendency to go into problem-solving and offer advice. But this may not be what your child needs. Sometimes its helpful to ask them directly if they want advice or just want you to listen. Another impulse to avoid is saying, Its OK. Youre going to be OK, Wilson said. Its all right to admit that you dont have all the answers. Even if you are not sure how to respond to a childs questions or needs, ensure that you will figure it out together, Kane said. 4. Thank them for telling you. You want to thank them for coming to you with such big feelings, hard stuff to talk about, Wilson said, and to encourage them to do so again in the future. 5. Consider your next steps. These could be a follow-up conversation or check-in a few days later. Or you may feel the need to take action right away. Ultimately, I always tell parents, if it feels big, your gut is always right, Wilson said. The national crisis hotline is easily accessible for parents by dialing 988. Youre able to talk to a live, trained counselor 24/7, and theyll be able to give you some action items to put into play. If you or someone you know needs help, call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org for mental health support. Additionally, you can find local mental health and crisis resources at dontcallthepolice.com. Outside of the U.S., please visit the International Association for Suicide Prevention. Related... Read the original on HuffPost Amir Amiri, an American citizen detained nine months ago in Afghanistan, was released Sunday and is on his way back to the United States, Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced. "Today we welcome home Amir Amiry, an American who was wrongfully detained in Afghanistan," wrote Rubio in a social media post. "I want to thank Qatar for helping secure his freedom." A source with knowledge of the release previously told CBS News that Qatari diplomats had coordinated with the office of the U.S. Special Envoy for Hostage Affairs to facilitate it. After the Taliban took control of Afghanistan in 2021, Qatar signed an accord to represent U.S. interests in the country. Before Amiri, it had helped secure the release of four other American citizens from Afghanistan earlier this year. Amiri was detained in December 2024. Qatar began negotiating for his release in March, at first arranging a meeting between Amiri and the U.S. Special Envoy Adam Boehler during his visit to Afghanistan, according to the source with knowledge of his release. Qatari diplomats monitored Amiri's health and maintained close communication with U.S. officials throughout his detention, the source told CBS News. Amir Amiri, second from left, was released Sunday, Sept. 28, after he was detained for nine months in Afghanistan. / Credit: Qatar Foreign Ministry Negotiations persisted for several months until Qatar reached a breakthrough this weekend, which resulted in Amiri's release, the source said. Two American citizens were freed in a prisoner swap between the U.S. and the Taliban in January, one of whom, Ryan Corbett, had been abducted in 2022 while on a work trip. The Taliban agreed to release them from Afghanistan in exchange for Khan Mohammed, a Taliban figure who had been imprisoned for life in California on drug trafficking and terrorism charges, officials told the Associated Press at the time. Another two Americans were released from Afghanistan in March. Faye Hall, who had been detained earlier in the year on charges of using an unauthorized drone, was arrested with a British couple who remained in Taliban custody, sources told CBS News after Hall's release. The British couple, Peter and Barbie Reynolds, were freed earlier this month. Separately, American George Glezmann was also freed in March after being detained during a tourist visit to Afghanistan in 2022, in a move that the former U.S. envoy to Afghanistan called "a goodwill gesture" to President Trump by the Taliban. After Charlie Kirk assassination, Utah Gov. Cox urges U.S. away from division, violence Government shutdown likely, CBS News' Robert Costa says after conversation with Trump Why crickets are as good as a thermometer Media outlets and organizations are preparing for a battle over Defense Secretary Pete Hegseths new rules restricting press access at the Pentagon. Legal experts and media advocates say the new policy appears to mark an unprecedented attack on press freedom, pointing to a provision that restricts the release of even unclassified information. The Pentagon says media outlets are misconstruing the new rules. Hegseth, who has repeatedly accused journalists of attempting to sabotage President Trumps agenda, wrote on the social platform X the move would establish that the press does not run the Pentagon the people do. To obtain or renew a Pentagon pass, according to a 17-page memo released on Sept. 19, reporters must sign a contract that recognizes that department information must be approved for public release by an appropriate authorizing official before it is released, even if it is unclassified. Those who refuse to sign the form, or do so and then violate the terms, could lose their access to the Pentagon and all U.S. military facilities. Reporters have been told that they must sign the form or their passes could be revoked within two weeks. The Hill is coordinating its response with the nonprofit Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press, which publicly announced its opposition to the new restrictions, asking for a delay in implementation and clarifications around the new policy. On Wednesday, the group said Defense officials had agreed to meet to discuss concerns about the First Amendment rights of journalists. In a statement, Gabe Rottman, the committees vice president of policy, said the Pentagons policy, in its current form, could be wielded to silence independent reporting in the public interest about the Pentagon and our national defense. The Society of Professional Journalists (SPJ), meanwhile, has demanded that the Defense Department rescind these measures immediately and urged all journalists and press freedom advocates to join us in unified opposition and resist this latest attempt to muzzle the press and deny the American people the transparency and accountability they deserve. Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell pushed back on the concerns from media outlets over the new policy. It should come as no surprise that the mainstream media is once again misrepresenting the Pentagons press procedures, he wrote Wednesday on X. Lets be absolutely clear: journalists are not required to clear their stories with us. This claim is a lie, he added. Have an escort in sensitive areas. Wear a press credential. Dont encourage our people to violate DoW policy. Pretty simple. In a letter responding to concerns from the Reporters Committee, Parnell said rules about the release of information applied to Pentagon employees, not to reporters. However, he said press access could be impacted if reporters are involved in violations of rules related to classified national security information (CNSI) and controlled unclassified information (CUI). Receipt of unsolicited information and subsequent publication-even of CNSI or CUI-is generally constitutionally protected and would not normally, on its own, trigger revocation. However, in rare, extreme cases where publication recklessly endangers American lives, it could factor into an assessment of whether continued unescorted access to the Pentagon poses a security risk, he wrote. Moreover, if a reporter solicits the gathering and providing of such information for use in the reporters work or is otherwise aware of and encourages the actions, such actions may also weigh in this consideration. This aligns with First Amendment precedent, including that which holds that the First Amendment does not immunize conduct facilitating legal violations, while preserving broad protections for publication. SPJ called the Pentagons response disingenuous. The language within its own memo is clear, stating that all information must be approved for public release by an appropriate authorizing official before it is released, even if it is unclassified. That is not normal press procedure it is prior restraint, it said in a statement Thursday. Journalists are not employees of the Department of War. They should never be asked to abide by restrictions intended for government staff. Suggesting otherwise is a dangerous blurring of roles that undermines critical independent reporting. The government and the press have long butted heads over the publication of secret or sensitive information, most notably with the publication of the Pentagon Papers in 1971. The documents, which were labeled Top Secret Sensitive, laid bare the fact that the Lyndon B. Johnson administration for years had misled the public about the course of the Vietnam War. The papers publication by The New York Times and later The Washington Post led to a landmark Supreme Court fight that upheld the First Amendments guarantee of freedom of the press. The Pentagons new rules take a further step by seeking to restrict reporting on unclassified information. George Washington University law professor and Fox News contributor Jonathan Turley on Monday warned that the Pentagon press policy may be a bridge too far as there is no precedent for such rules on reporters. What theyre basically saying is if you publish anything thats not in the press release, is not the official statement of the Pentagon, you could be held responsible under this policy, he said Monday on Fox Newss Special Report. That is going to create a stranglehold on the free press. And the cost is too great. The controversy has even caught the attention of television host Jimmy Kimmel, who returned to the airwaves on Tuesday after executives at ABC parent company Disney pulled Jimmy Kimmel Live! off the air last week over his comments about the suspected shooter of right-wing activist Charlie Kirk. They want to pick and choose what the news is. I know thats not as interesting as muzzling a comedian, but its so important to have a free press and it is nuts that we arent paying more attention to it, Kimmel said of the new Pentagon restrictions in his opening monologue. Its unclear if the new restrictions have the backing of President Trump. Asked on Sunday if the Pentagon should decide what the media can cover, he replied, No, I dont think so. Nothing stops reporters. The new rules are a continuation of Hegseths crackdown on press access and accommodations in the Pentagon despite often boasting about transparency. His office in late January booted four outlets from their Pentagon workspaces in favor of other media outlets, including Breitbart News and One America News Network, that have seemingly given the Trump administration more favorable coverage. When reporters complained to Hegseths office about the move, officials removed four additional news outlets, including The Hill, from their desks. Hegseth, a former Fox News host, in May made certain hallways of the Pentagon off-limits to journalists without an official escort a major change as reporters previously had access throughout much of the building without an escort. The new memo seems to further limit reporters movement, noting that if news outlets require access to other areas or offices within the Pentagon for in-person interviews or other engagements, they must be escorted to and from those spaces by authorized personnel. In addition, Hegseth has made the Pentagon press briefing room off-limits to reporters unless a briefing is taking place. The room had previously served as a place for reporters without a dedicated workspace to gain access to the internet to file stories from within the building. So far, Hegseth and his press officials have held fewer than 10 on-the-record briefings since the start of the year. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Getty; Fayette County Sheriff's Office School bus (stock image); suspect Glenroy Miller NEED TO KNOW A child may have saved their mothers life after slipping a note to a bus driver that read, Call 911 The bus driver alerted authorities, who then visited the childs home and found that the mother had allegedly been assaulted and was being held against her will A suspect has since been arrested and charged A child in Iowa may have saved their mothers life after passing a note to a school bus driver that read, Call 911. The student passed the note to the driver just before 7:30 a.m. local time on Wednesday, Sept. 24, according to the Fayette County Sheriffs Office (FCSO), per News 13, ABC 6 and CBS 2. The driver alerted authorities, and police then went to a home in Westgate, a rural area of the county, to investigate, per News 13 and ABC 6. Upon arriving at the home, police found that the childs mother was allegedly being held against her will by 29-year-old Glenroy Miller of the Bahamas. Miller is accused of having assaulted the woman several times throughout the night, kicking her with enough force to break two ribs and puncture her lung, per News 13. Fayette County Sheriff's Office Glenroy Miller Authorities also said the mother was unable to call for help in front of the suspect, so she wrote a note on a piece of paper and gave it to her child, per News 13 and CBS 2. The child is currently in first grade, according to a legal complaint obtained by News 13. Want to keep up with the latest crime coverage? Sign up for PEOPLE's free True Crime newsletter for breaking crime news, ongoing trial coverage and details of intriguing unsolved cases. Miller was arrested that morning, per Fayette County public arrest records. He has been charged with armed kidnapping, willful injury, domestic abuse assault with the intent to inflict serious injuries and obstruction of emergency communications, according to public court records. Miller is currently being held on a $1,500 bond, public arrest records show. He is also being detained through Immigration and Customs Enforcement, per News 13 and CBS 2. Read the original article on People New York City Mayor Eric Adams announced Sunday he is suspending his campaign for mayor, just weeks away from the closely watched election. Adams announced his decision in a video on X. The mayor, running as an independent, resisted calls to drop out previously from opponents of Democratic nominee Zohran Mamdani, who were concerned he and independent candidate former Gov. Andrew Cuomo, who lost the Democratic primary and is running as an independent, would split the vote. MORE: Mayor Eric Adams offers New Yorkers apology as growing scandals shadow his term, re-election bid Adams has been polling behind Mamdani, Cuomo and Republican nominee Curtis Sliwa. Kylie Cooper/Reuters - PHOTO: 80th United Nations General Assembly at U.N. headquarters in New York ABC News previously reported that it is too late for Adams's name to be removed from the ballot. His name will remain, as will fellow long shot candidate Jim Walden, who also suspended his campaign and last week endorsed Cuomo. Adams' decision follows an order Friday from the Manhattan federal judge who oversaw Adams criminal case. Judge Dale Ho agreed to add the citys Campaign Finance Board as an interested party in the now-dismissed corruption matter. The CFB asked to be added so it could review the case before deciding whether to award matching funds to the Adams campaign. The judges order granting the request made clear to the mayor and his campaign advisers that it would be unlikely they would receive public money to match the nearly $4 million Adams has raised. Adams was indicted in September 2024 on five counts in an alleged long-standing conspiracy connected to what prosecutors said were improper benefits, illegal campaign contributions and an attempted coverup. The charges against the mayor -- including counts of wire fraud, conspiracy, bribery and solicitation of a contribution from a foreign entity -- were dropped against him in April by the U.S. Justice Department in what his critics claimed was a quid pro quo with the Trump administration. Adams and the Justice Department denied there was a quid pro quo involved in the dropping of the charges. MORE: Eric Adams stays in NYC mayor's race after Trump aides tease ambassadorship Advisers for President Donald Trump had been in contact with Adams to persuade him to drop out of the race and offered him positions in the administration, including an ambassador post in Saudi Arabia, sources told ABC News. Trump and Adams both denied reports of those meetings. However, Trump has been vocal that candidates should drop out to limit the number of challengers against Mamdani. Adams said in his announcement he could not continue his bid because of what he said was media speculation and funds withheld by the CFB "have undermined my ability to raise the funds needed for a serious campaign." When I was elected to serve as your mayor, I said these words: This campaign was never about me. It was about the people of this city -- from every neighborhood and background -- who had been left behind and believed they would never catch up. This campaign was for the underserved, the marginalized, the abandoned and betrayed by government, Adams said in the video. Since then, it has been my honor to be your mayor. And I am proud to say that we took that victory four years ago and turned it into action -- making this city better for those who had been failed by government. Adams also indicated he will serve out the rest of his term in office. Although this is the end of my reelection campaign, it is not the end of my public service. I will continue to fight for this city -- as I have for 40 years, since the day I joined the NYPD to make our streets safer and our systems fairer, he said. Adams did not endorse any candidate for mayor in his announcement. Mamdani wrote in a statement reacting to Adams' withdrawal, Donald Trump and his billionaire donors might be able to determine Eric Adams and Andrew Cuomos actions but they will not dictate the results of this election. New York deserves better than trading in one disgraced, corrupt politician for another. On November 4th, we are going to turn the page on the politics of big money and small ideas and deliver a government every New Yorker can be proud of. Cuomo said in a statement Sunday that Adamss choice to drop out was not an easy one, but I believe he is sincere in putting the well-being of New York City ahead of personal ambition." We face destructive extremist forces that would devastate our city through incompetence or ignorance, but it is not too late to stop them, Cuomo wrote. The former governor added, Mayor Adams has much to be proud of in his accomplishments. Only in New York can a child raised in a tenement in Bushwick, who once worked as a squeegee boy and a mailroom clerk, rise to become mayor. Whatever differences we may have, Eric Adams story is undeniably one of resilience -- a testament to the spirit of this city. A spokesperson for Sliwa wrote, "Curtis Sliwa is the only candidate who can defeat Mamdani. Our team, our resources, and our funding are unmatched. Most importantly, we have the best solutions to help working people afford to stay in New York City and feel safe. City Hall staff members were informed of the mayors decision just a few moments before the campaign released Adams' statement. Adams gave no indication that he has a job lined up after he leaves office. A source close to the mayor was unaware of a job being offered. ABC News' Aaron Katersky contributed to this report. Launchmetrics.com/spotlight//Getty Images//Collage by Sarah Olivieri "Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links." If an 'Irish Goodbye' is a stealth exit, than an 'Italian Goodbye' is the opposite: You can't quite seem to say arrivederci. That's how it's going with Milan Fashion Week, anyway, because even though the circus is packing up for Paris, this season's runways full of designer reveals, celebrity jaw-drops, and several legit "it bag" contenders will linger in our heads for a while. But change is good, and so is the spaghetti at the fashion cafeteria La Specialita, where no fewer than six tables of models, stylists, and editors were pretending not to talk about each other last night. Here's what they might have been saying... Can You Please Spell Gabbana? Try to imagine the text that Meryl Streep sent to Selena Gomez this week: Sorry I have to skip your wedding. Gotta film Devil Wears Prada 2 at Dolce & Gabbana in Milan. Say hi to Taylor. Thats all. If shes looking for an apology gift, maybe try sending the opening look. Its a set of embroidered crystal pajamas in almost, but not quite, cerulean. MM6 for IRL As the impish little sibling of Maison Martin Margiela, the contemporary MM6 label gets to live a little less in a lab of Big, Important Ideas and a little more on the street. The brand took its job literally this week, sending a stomp of models (like a dazzle of zebras but taller) down Via Alessandro Manzoni smack in the middle of rush hour. They wore we-mean-business trench coats and cardigans with the shoulders slashed off, revealing bathing suit tops in calypso swirls underneath. You can make a million inner self comments here, but if youve been a girl who didnt have time to do laundry, youve also worn this exact cashmere-and-pool combo while racing to a coffee meeting. MM6 is just normalizing the moment of whatever girl, get it done. And yes, these looks got it done. At the end of the show, several models stuck around in the courtyard of the new MM6 boutique. Theyd pushed their Trekkie sunglasses up like headbands. Another hint that MM6 builds for their own world but lets us live in ours, too. The Vroom Vroom Room Are you normal, or did you spend your first waking hours watching Amelia Gray emerge from an all-white car garage in clothes created by Ferrari? The Italian auto icon began its fashion collection in 2022; now it commands a captive audience of style insiders, even on a rainy Saturday morning. The clothes themselves had quiet horsepower a mulberry trench with 80s power sleeves on model Imaan Hammam was pretty great. There was a cargo denim jacket that seemed stained with petrol; a neat detail. But as Amelia etc. finished their catwalk finale, something sneaky happened: Vespa, the Italian scooter brand, dropped their own clothing range! Its called the Al Vento (in the wind) collection, and it comes with worn leather moto jackets, fuzzy bombers, and jeans printed with dogs wearing ties. There is also a crystal-studded scooter helmet a reminder, perhaps, that if you dont ride safely, you could land on your head and start seeing truly weird stuff like dogs wearing ties. Victor Virgile I Only Have One Photo in My Hands Runway models today were born around 2003 the same year that Tyra Banks launched the scary-cringe glory known as Americas Next Top Model. Perhaps thats why this new crop of catwalkers arrives with a little extra oomph in their long, symmetrical steps. Canadian stunner Awar Odhiang navigated Versaces super-tight staircases in a tight bubble-hem skirt with plenty of attitude and seemingly no stress. At Blumarine, American girl Colin Jones went topless save for a giant, 15-pound butterfly necklace, and still managed to keep a smize on her face navigating nudity and spike heels on rain-splashed catwalk. And Chinese model Canlan Wang handled a double-layer maxi dress at Cavalli without ever looking down at the slick metallic floor. This is tedious, hard, freak-out prone work, and it requires as much focus and coordination as many real sports. And these girls are playing to win. Stella Jeans Arm Party Once upon a time, lets say 2012, it was all about the arm party. Influencers like Leandra Medine and designers like Nicolas Ghesquiere (then at Balenciaga) and Giambattista Valli stacked bangle bracelets all the way to the elbows the way a toddler stacks those jelly rings all over the living room floor. Designer Stella Novarino of Stella Jean said, yeah, bet, and made a white sleeveless maxi dress, then wound semiprecious stones up the entire arm of her model. Bonus: Hauling 12 lbs. of rose quartz to a party could do wonders for the biceps. Just be sure to swap arms every time you wear the look to keep from going lopsided (and getting yelled at by your pilates instructor). Pietro D'Aprano - Getty Images Tods New Girl Casting the front row at a fashion show can be even more crucial than casting the models. (Remember Beyonce at Luar last year?) Enter influencer Lily Chee, 22, who brought her 3.5 million social media followers along to the Tods show, where the New York native joined established front row bombshells like Naomi Watts (56), Michelle Monaghan (49), and the legendary supermodel Iman (70). Lets see if this will help the brands signature (and pretty luscious) loafers edge out the boat-shoe trend among The Youth next year. Christian Vierig - Getty Images Prep? LOL. The best luxury labels are the ones in on the joke. The quiet luxury leaders at Loro Piana just proved it by tying five of their dreamy sweaters around the shoulders of one model. (Well call the look Extreme Connecticut Mom.) The brand also tied their new leather-and-gold station necklaces into a knot-like pendant, because if youre going to get your jewelry tangled anyway, at least make it look like art. As for the tiny llama bag charms debuting in Spring 2026, look, its about time these teeny leather goats got a friend. Newsies: Fashion Edition Is news the ultimate luxury item? Well, newspapers, maybe. The idea in New York, where Brandon Maxwell and Lafayette 148 styled their 2026 handbags with newspapers tucked into the tops. In London, JW Anderson tucked a leather newsprint roll into the crook of his models arm. Yesterday, model Ashley Graham posed at the Stuart Weitzman presentation with the Milanese daily La Corriere della Serra. (The all-American bombshell was pictured wearing the brands new heels on page 2.) This weekend, Bottega Veneta had its own gazette, which was cut and braided just like the brands signature woven pelle. In the fashion world, at least, print isnt just alive its coveted. ( Duh .) The Empty Runway Emporio Armanis Spring 2026 show was based on the feeling of getting home from vacation. Youre well-rested but a little undone, and you end up wearing a tankini top with your favorite pair of work trousers, because its cute and anyway, youve got tan lines to show off. The effect was breezy and sweet until the finale, when instead of Mr. Armanis usual bow, there was a blank space to honor his memory. Suddenly, it became clear why the models wore sunglasses during their bows. Some of them had been crying. Still, they all smiled. The audience, too. Mondadori Portfolio - Getty Images Take Your Outfit to Work Day We talk (and talk, and talk) about the benefits of women designing clothes for women. What rarely gets mentioned is that every catwalk season, we get to see what these female creative directors wear to work. The big reveal comes in the form of a runway bow, when the designer emerges from the wings and presto: a working womans uniform reveals itself, and often that uniform is magic. It happened at The Attico, where co-designers Gilda Ambrosio and Giorgia Tordini chose a giant Batman tee (Gilda) and a slouchy black shirt dress (Giorgia) to receive their applause. The looks were a stark departure from the brands peek-a-boo style of sex appeal. (Lots of undies believing theyre skirts the way Pinnochio believes hes a real boy, you know?) But Gilda and Giorgia looked cool, and offered another option for women coming into their world. Miuccia Prada was more on-brand for her runway bow, choosing a simple white shirt-dress under a bejeweled orange scarf. Her look became a wait, I can do that! moment for fans who probably cant buy the clothes, but can definitely tie a strategic shawl. Instagram and Threads lit up with chatter for hours afer the reveal. And when Louise Trotter made a quick dash onstage at Bottega Veneta this weekend, she did it in a slouchy blue sweater with wide-leg wool slacks and a white-on-white pair of Orbit Flash sneakers . As of this writing, the kicks are already sold out in three sizes. Pietro D'Aprano - Getty Images You Might Also Like BEIJING, Sept. 27, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- This is a news report from China Daily: The Nile River, eternal and majestic, carves its path through endless desert landscapes before surrendering to the Mediterranean in North Egypt. Along its fertile black banks, ancient Egyptian civilization blossomed, a land of awe and mystery where the world's first scripts were etched, some of the earliest cities rose, and belief in eternity gave shape to temples and tombs. Visitors at the exhibition On Top of the Pyramid: The Civilization of Ancient Egypt in the Shanghai Museum on the night of Aug 11. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn] Today, this river of history flows into a new chapter, as China and Egypt join hands to guard the legacies of their ancient civilizations. Together they are breathing new life into weathered stones and faded murals, through joint archaeological digs, relic restorations and cultural exhibitions. In this dialogue across time, two cradles of human wisdom affirm a shared belief that the diversity of civilizations is a treasure to be cherished, and that protecting the past is a way of inspiring the future, experts said. From the summer of 2024 to the summer of 2025, Shanghai Museum staged the landmark exhibition "On Top of the Pyramid: The Civilization of Ancient Egypt". Showcasing 788 rare artifacts, the 13-month event drew an impressive 2.78 million visitors. The exhibition presented over 400 newly unearthed artifacts, underscoring the rich fruits of recent China-Egypt joint archaeological projects. In recent years, China and Egypt have steadily deepened archaeological cooperation. In 2018, following a protocol between Egypt's Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities and the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, China's first full archaeological mission in Egypt began excavations at the Montu Temple ruins in Luxor's Karnak Temple Complex. In parallel, joint efforts are underway to nominate China's Baiheliang Ancient Hydrological Inscription and Egypt's Rawda Island Nilometer as World Cultural Heritage sites of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). Meanwhile, teams have begun digitally documenting thousands of ancient coffins in Saqqara a sprawling necropolis of ancient Egyptian royalty contributing to both preservation and scholarship. Yan Haiying, professor of history at Peking University, said that China and Egypt, both heirs to ancient civilizations, stand as mirrors to one another. Comparative research between these two cultural giants not only deepens mutual understanding, but also enriches each side's sense of identity and historical self-awareness. "The exhibition of ancient Egyptian civilization has sparked a cultural wave in China. In the past, Egypt-themed shows here were often canned exhibitions curated in the West and staged mainly for profit. This time, however, Shanghai Museum achieved a major breakthrough, taking the lead in curating independently and working hand in hand with Egyptian counterparts. Without the joint archaeology of China and Egypt, these newly unearthed relics could never have come to China," Yan said. She said ancient China and Egypt, both nourished by great rivers, shared striking commonalities as agrarian civilizations. Each cultivated cosmologies and philosophies rooted in the idea of harmony between heaven and humanity, and in prayers for blessings in the afterlife. Both sought a unified national order and revered the ideal of living in balance with nature. "Therefore, before the relics of ancient Egypt, Chinese hearts stir with a quiet resonance: two great civilizations, though distant, recognizing one another across the span of time," Yan said. Xue Jiang, a researcher at the World Art History Institute of Shanghai International Studies University, said that ancient Egyptian and Chinese civilizations share similar characteristics, and these cultural parallels have laid a strong foundation for the two nations to deepen cooperation in preserving their rich heritage. Xue and his colleagues carried out field research in Egypt on the digitization of newly unearthed artifacts, which led to an agreement with Egyptian partners to launch a series of long-term collaborative projects. The first initiative, which focused on the investigation, cataloging, database creation and joint publication of artifacts discovered in Saqqara, was designated as a pilot, testing new methods and technologies for heritage preservation. "Following our research, we will publish findings in Arabic, Chinese and English, and establish a trilingual database. Looking ahead, we plan to set up joint laboratories and apply China's most advanced archaeological technologies to help Egypt build a modern archaeological system," he said. Both experts said strengthened cooperation between China and Egypt in heritage protection will not only deepen cultural exchanges, but also contribute to safeguarding the diversity of world civilizations. "Every civilization shines with its own brilliance, and all stand equal, and this forms the very foundation of dialogue and exchange. As heirs to these legacies, we bear the responsibility of safeguarding world heritage and preserving the shared treasures of human civilization," Xue said. Yan said that with each newly unearthed artifact, Egyptian national pride swelled and confidence soared, inspiring renewed efforts to safeguard their cultural treasures and celebrate their rich history. "Understanding one's past is key to fostering one's cultural confidence. China and Egypt should work together to safeguard their shared historical and cultural heritage, enhance the protection and transmission of cultural relics, and jointly preserve the collective memory of history," she said. Xue added: "Civilizations are neither superior nor inferior; they are united by the shared aspiration to learn from one another, collaborate and achieve mutual benefit. In reflecting on civilization, we must not only examine its authenticity, but also seek a collective human memory and empathy that transcend time and space." SOURCE China Daily Andrej Babis during an alection campaign, in Ostrava By Vera Dvorakova and Jan Lopatka (Reuters) -The Czech Republic holds a parliamentary election on October 3 and 4, with the opposition ANO party of former Prime Minister Andrej Babis leading opinion polls ahead of the main centre-right ruling parties. WHAT'S AT STAKE? An ANO-led government would probably clash with the European Union on climate policies and migration, tone down support for Ukraine, and ally more often with Hungary's government led by Viktor Orban. The cost of living, energy prices and the country's anchoring in the EU and military alliance NATO are the main campaign issues. WHAT DO CZECHS VOTE ON? Czechs elect 200 deputies for a four-year term in the lower house of parliament, under a proportional voting system. Parties must obtain at least 5% of votes to win seats. WHEN DOES VOTING TAKE PLACE? Polls are open 2 p.m. (1200 GMT) to 10 p.m. on October 3 and 8 a.m. to 2. p.m. on October 4. WHEN WILL RESULTS BE ANNOUNCED? Results start trickling in after polls close. Nearly complete results are expected later in the afternoon of October 4. WHAT HAPPENS NEXT? No party is expected to win a majority. The largest party will likely lead talks to form a coalition or secure support for a minority cabinet. The president then appoints the prime minister, usually from the party with a viable government plan, and ministers. President Petr Pavel said he would consider ministerial nominees' positions on EU and NATO membership, potentially rejecting hardliners. He would also potentially question Babis on resolving his conflict of interest resulting from his ownership of farming and chemicals business empire Agrofert. The new government must seek a confidence vote in the lower house. COURT CHALLENGES The Constitutional Court rejected on September 24 complaints that the far-right SPD and far-left Stacilo! were undeclared coalitions, meaning they were circumventing a requirement to win more votes in order to enter parliament. Lower courts had previously also rejected similar complaints. WHO ARE THE KEY PARTIES AND WHAT ARE THEIR PLEDGES? ** SPOLU (Together) coalition - government Centre-right coalition led by Prime Minister Petr Fiala's Civic Democrats (ODS). It pledges to raise defence spending toward NATO's new targets and continue support for Ukraine. In the European Parliament, ODS is a member of the European Conservatives and Reformists, while other members of SPOLU are in the European People's Party (EPP). ** Action of Dissatisfied Citizens (ANO) - opposition The populist party led by Babis campaigned on pledges to lower energy prices, raise salaries and cut corporate taxes. It rejects the EU's emissions allowances system for households as well as the EU's pact to share burdens of migration. It has pledged to end organizing ammunition supplies for Ukraine, and has rejected NATO's new defence spending target. ANO plans to bring independent public broadcasters under direct budget funding and scrap the current government's attempts at fighting disinformation, which it sees as censorship. It wants to bring power utility CEZ under full state control. ANO is in the Patriots for Europe group in the European Parliament. ** Freedom and Direct Democracy (SPD) - opposition Far-right, anti-immigration party. It opposes the Green Deal, the Migration Pact, military spending increases or support for Ukraine. It demands referenda on leaving the EU and NATO. ** The Mayors and Independents (STAN) - government Centrist movement, part of the current government. Pro-EU integration, favours euro adoption. It backs support for Ukraine and strengthening of NATO's defences. ** Stacilo! (Enough!) - opposition Stacilo! is led by the Communist Party, which is heir to the former totalitarian ruling party, and several other formations. Stacilo! wants a departure from NATO and EU. It sees the West as responsible for the war in Ukraine by provoking Russia. ** Czech Pirate Party (Pirates) - opposition A progressive party with an emphasis on digitalization and individual freedom. Pirates are strongly pro-NATO and pro-EU and support adoption of the euro. ** Motoriste sobe (Motorists for Themselves) - opposition A right-wing, eurosceptic party opposed to green policies and progressivism. Closest potential partner for ANO. (Reporting by Vera Dvorakova and Jan Lopatka; Editing by Andrew Cawthorne) SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) The FBI is offering a reward of up to $25,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the individuals responsible for shooting at and robbing four hikers near the U.S.-Mexico border earlier this year. The Nexstar Media video above explains what to do if you witness a crime According to the FBIs San Diego Field Office, the assault and armed robbery occurred around 10:37 a.m. on Wednesday, January 22, 2025, approximately 1,000 feet from the international border in Imperial County. Coyote caught on camera playing with dog toy in backyard Authorities say two unknown Hispanic male suspects opened fire on a group of four hikers, striking one of them. The suspects then approached the hikers and, at gunpoint, stole valuables from the group before fleeing the area. The injured hiker sustained non-life-threatening injuries. The two suspects were last seen traveling southwest toward the international border. The FBI will not stop until we find the individuals responsible for this violent crime on these innocent hikers, said Special Agent in Charge Mark Dargis of the FBIs San Diego Field Office. No one should ever fear being shot at and robbed at gunpointregardless of where they are. The FBI and our law enforcement partners will put all our collective investigative resources behind locating and apprehending those responsible to ensure justice is served. The FBI is encouraging anyone with information about the suspects identities or whereabouts to come forward. Tips can be submitted anonymously at tips.fbi.gov, or by contacting any local FBI field office. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News. Republican Rep. Ashley Hinson went on scorched earth attack after her 14-year-old son's Iowa high school celebrated "Bisexual Plus Awareness Week" during a student-run television program. Republican Rep. Ashley Hinson went scorched earth after her 14-year-old sons Iowa high school celebrated Bisexual Plus Awareness Week during a student-run television program. The Iowa congresswoman sent a letter to US Department of Education Secretary Linda McMahon on Friday eviscerating Linn-Mar High School in Marion for broadcasting the inappropriate segment to students this week without parental consent and demanding that a full investigation be launched. This weeks messages to help stop biphobia also included encouraging students to wear bisexual pride pins to show allyship, learn about bisexuality and its history, and validate the feelings of bisexual individuals, Hinson said in the letter, shared on X by the Daily Signal. Rep. Ashley Hinson called on the US Department of Education to launch an investigation into Linn-Mar High School in Marion, Iowa. Getty Images These segments were broadcast to students without parental knowledge or consent. As a parent and a legislator, I am appalled that a school would assume the role of teaching and promoting sexual identity to our children. Our schools should be educating students, not indoctrinating them. The controversial morning announcement, aired to the school community on Tuesday, highlighted the inclusive week, with students explaining the meaning of non-monosexual identity. A non-monsexual identity refers to sexual orientations that are not exclusively homosexual or heterosexual, a student said in the segment. The letter from Hinson to Secretary of Education Linda McMahon. The term encompasses a range of identities including bisexual, pansexual, fluid, queer and omnisexual. Non-monosexual identities emphasize that attraction can be complex and not limited to traditional binaries In her letter, Hinson condemned the school district for exposing children to ideologies she said could conflict with a familys beliefs and faith. Trump signed an executive order in January aimed at withholding federal funds from institutions that teach gender ideology and critical race theory. President Trump in January signed an executive order withholding federal funds from schools that teach gender ideology. AP I appreciate the Trump Administrations commitment to restoring parents voice in their childrens education. This indoctrination without even giving parents an opportunity to opt out is exactly the kind of abuse we must end, Hinson seethed the letter. Parents should be informed, empowered, and involved in all aspects of their childrens education, not blindsided after their children have been exposed to inappropriate content. It is imperative there is accountability and transparency for Linn-Mar parents and an assurance that this will not happen again. The Linn-Mar Community School District said in a statement that a review is underway. Hinson said she wants the school to assure her and other parents this incident wont happen again. Getty Images At this time, the district is conducting a review to determine whether an existing policies or procedures were violated during the production or airing of the segment, the district told Fox News Digital. We remain committed to fostering respectful dialogue and supporting all students and staff in a safe and inclusive environment in a manner that aligns with district guidelines and policies. Courtesy of Kolbi Amos / JumpinGoat Coffee North Georgia is one of those regions that tends to fly under the radar, but once you get a glimpse of all its natural beauty, you might be left wondering where its been all your life. Its home to many little-known mountain towns, including the German-inspired village of Helen, but if you look beyond the main attractions, youll find hidden gems waiting just around the corner. Only a 4-minute drive from Helen in the tiny town of Cleveland, JumpinGoat Coffee Roasters & Tasting Room might just be one of the most scenic cafes in the South. Every cup of coffee, whether its bourbon- or wine-infused or anything in between, is served alongside a beautiful overlook of Yonah Mountain. And thanks to its glass-walled seating area, theres truly no bad seat in the house Explore Nearby Helen A Cafe With A View Courtesy of Kolbi Amos / JumpinGoat Coffee Despite its remote location, JumpinGoat draws plenty of regulars. Owner Charlie Britt told the Fork In The Road podcast he envisioned it as a place of serenity, and the design makes that clear. Just off Helen Highway, the coffee shop opens onto rolling pastures dotted with grazing cows and sweeping views of Yonah Mountain. A glass-walled pavilion gives guests front-row seats to the scenery, while the main shop covers all the bases for coffee, gifts, and souvenirs. Enjoy live music on weekends, an off-leash dog park, and a mix of outdoor seating. Inside, beans roasted in-house fuel everything from classic brews to bourbon-infused specialties. Tea, beer, mead, and wine to round out the selection. Whats On The Menu Courtesy of Kolbi Amos / JumpinGoat Coffee JumpinGoat is a playground for adventurous coffee lovers. From globally sourced beans to specialty lattes served both hot and cold, guests can explore a wide range of flavor profiles. I buy the very best coffee we can, Britt told Fork In The Road. We offer maybe seven or eight different origins you can try, so you can actually come here and do a coffee tasting. Beyond classic brews, Britt has crafted inventive blends like bourbon pecan, stout- and IPA-infused coffees, and even a wine-infused chocolate coffee. In the tasting room, guests can also try local honey, mead, balsamic vinegar, and olive oils. And recently added to the menu, guests can now enjoy fresh acai bowls alongside their morning coffee. Read the original article on Southern Living Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian addresses the 80th United Nations General Assembly at the UN headquarters in New York City on September 24, 2025. - Jeenah Moon/Reuters Iran was hit with so-called snapback sanctions on Sunday local time, at a time of high tension in the Middle East. But what does that mean? The term is used for the reimposition of United Nations sanctions against Iran a decade after they were suspended as part of a landmark deal to limit and monitor the countrys controversial nuclear program. France, Germany and the United Kingdom said they had no choice but to trigger the snapback, accusing Iran of not meeting its obligations under the agreement. But the reversion could mean Tehran moves even further from international oversight of its nuclear program. How did we get here? Sanctions were due to end permanently on October 18. But the original agreement, known as the JCPOA, which saw the lifting of sanctions against Iran in exchange for restrictions over its nuclear program, allowed any signatory to restore sanctions before that date if it decided Iran had failed to meet its commitments. In August, European negotiators told the UN Security Council that Iran had violated the near entirety of its JCPOA commitments, and that Europe was preparing to trigger the snapback mechanism. It gave a months warning to Iran in August as a way of getting the process moving before Russia assumes the presidency of the Security Council in October. Several meetings and calls took place this month with Iranian foreign minister Abbas Araghchi and other Iranian officials but none made headway in meeting the Europeans key demands: evidence that Iran is prepared to find a diplomatic solution, comply with monitoring and inspections by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and account for the state and whereabouts of more than 400 kg of highly enriched uranium. The European nations also want the resumption of Irans direct talks with the United States. The United Nations Security Council pictured after a vote on a resolution that would have permanently lifted UN sanctions on Iran, in New York City, September 19, 2025. - Eduardo Munoz/Reuters Western powers and Israel have long accused Iran of seeking to make nuclear weapons. Tehran insists its nuclear program is peaceful. There was an agreement this month between the IAEA and Iran on resuming inspections, but European diplomats said it was too vague to be of reassurance. Araghchi told Iranian state media that IAEA access to nuclear sites would be limited and conducted under conditions set by Irans Supreme National Security Council. He added that enriched uranium stockpiles may remain inaccessible, buried under the rubble of nuclear facilities. The snapback sanctions began Sunday. The foreign ministers of France, Germany and the United Kingdom the three European nations party to the JCPOA said in a statement after the snapback: We urge Iran and all states to abide fully by these resolutions. Criticizing Tehran for having repeatedly breached its JCPOA commitments, the ministers said they had no choice but to trigger the snapback procedure, but added that it is not the end of diplomacy. On Saturday, Iran said it was recalling its envoys to Paris, Berlin and London. Araghchi also sent a letter to the UN Security Council calling the invocation of the snapback by the three nations simply a stark abuse of process, Irans IRNA state news agency reported. What will the sanctions do? Snapback restores UN sanctions that were introduced between 2006 and 2010 including an arms embargo, and a ban on Iran getting technology for its ballistic missile program. Irans oil and financial services sectors were also targeted. But the European decision is not binding on the other signatories to JCPOA, China and Russia, historical allies of Iran. The US pulled out of the JCPOA during President Donald Trumps first term in office and opted for a policy of maximum pressure against Iran through a tough regime of sanctions. So snapback essentially sees Europe moving towards the US position. What has Iran said? Iran has remained defiant. Through the snapback they block the road, but it is the brains and the thoughts that open or build the road, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has said. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian told a group of journalists and analysts that his country has no intention to leave the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). - John Lamparski/Getty Images The economic impact of UN and EU sanctions on Iran would be limited, given the gravity of US restrictions, notes the European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR). But one practical ramification of snapback for Iran is that if a future nuclear deal resulted in the lifting of UN sanctions, it is not clear whether the EU would follow suit. The ECFR adds: It is inconceivable that - having experienced the pain of military strikes - snapback can force Iran to accept the US demand of zero-enrichment of its uranium. Iranian officials previously warned that, if snapback went ahead, Tehran would end its participation in IAEA inspections. Some Iranian officials have warned that the reimposition of UN sanctions would lead Iran to quit the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), which would put an end to international scrutiny of its nuclear program. Pezeshkian, however, told a group of journalists and analysts that Iran had no intention to leave the NPT as a reaction to the revival of the UN sanctions, Reuters reported. What is the state of Irans nuclear program? A satellite view shows an overview of Fordow underground complex, after the United States struck the underground nuclear facility, near Qom, Iran in June. - Maxar Technologies/Handout/Reuters Following the 12-day Israeli assault on Iran in June and US airstrikes against its key Fordow nuclear facility, the state of Irans program is unclear. Trump said Fordow had been obliterated; other assessments suggested that nuclear facilities had been badly damaged, but that Irans program may have been set back up to two years. Araghchi has said much of Irans enriched uranium is buried under the rubble. Also unknown is the state of critical equipment at Isfahan that would enrich uranium to weapons-grade and convert it from gas to metal. International inspectors have not been able to visit the sites since the conflict in June. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Larry Ellison (right) and President Donald Trump in the Roosevelt Room of the White House on Jan. 21. (Andrew HarnikGetty Images) A year ago, Oracle cofounder and chairman Larry Ellison described a future where everyone, including law enforcement, will face regular surveillance as daily life is documented seemingly nonstop. At Oracles financial analyst meeting last September, he predicted artificial intelligence will help process the vast amounts of footage recorded by cameras placed on everything from car dashboards and front doors to security systems and cops. Were going to have supervision, Ellison said. Every police officer is going to be supervised at all times, and if theres a problem, AI will report that problem and report it to the appropriate person. Citizens will be on their best behavior because we are constantly recording and reporting everything thats going on. Those comments have gained fresh relevance now that his company has emerged as a major player in the AI industry and is poised to play a critical role in the deal for TikToks U.S. operations. TikToks video-sharing platform is among the most popular social media properties in the country. Oracle didnt immediately respond to a request for comment. The company has been an AI infrastructure provider and stunned Wall Street earlier this month by reaching a $300 billion deal with OpenAI, which will purchase computing power over about five years in one of the largest cloud contracts ever signed. And earlier this week, OpenAI signed deals with SoftBank and Oracle for new data centers as part of the massive Stargate project. In its most recent quarterly earnings call with analysts, management also offered revenue projections that cited $455 billion in contracts, up 359% from a year earlier. CEO Safra Catz revealed that Oracle landed deals with three different customers during the quarter. Meanwhile, Oracle is expected to be among the companies that will buy TikToks U.S. business from Chinese parent company ByteDance. In addition, Oracle will spearhead U.S. oversight of the algorithm and security. President Donald Trump on Thursday afternoon signed an executive order clearing the way for a deal to put TikTok in U.S. hands. The U.S. ownership structure is still being finalized, but Trump said Oracle and Ellison would play a big role in managing the app, while conservative media mogul Rupert Murdoch and computer billionaire Michael Dell would sit on the board. Trump hinted that three more blue-chip backers are also part of the ownership group. Vice President JD Vance said that the algorithm will be under the control of American investors, adding that more details would be forthcoming. Reports earlier this week said Oracle will re-create TikToks algorithm and provide a new U.S. version while also ensuring security for users data. This deal will allow for the U.S. to control the apps algorithm, Vance said. Its actually going to be American-operated all the way. This story was originally featured on Fortune.com At least three people are confirmed dead after heavy rain caused flooding in Arizona, and hundreds of propane tanks have created a hazardous situation in a rural community devastated by the floods. Two people died and at least one person was missing after rain inundated Globe, a city of about 7,250 people about 88 miles east of Phoenix, Mayor Al Gameros told CBS Phoenix affiliate KPHO-TV. Officials initially said three people were dead, but that was updated on Sunday. Another person was found dead Saturday morning near a vehicle caught in floodwaters in suburban Phoenix the night before. The vehicle appeared to be empty after it was spotted partially submerged in about 8 feet of fast-moving water on Friday evening in a greenbelt park area, the Scottsdale Fire Department said. After the water dropped a bit overnight, crews found the body of a person pinned underneath a walkway bridge, the department said. Damage from flooding in Globe, Arizona, is seen on Sept. 27, 2025. / Credit: Adam Klepp/KNXV-TV - ABC15 Arizona via AP In the rural community of Globe, one of Arizona's oldest mining towns, sheriff deputies were looking into reports of more people who may be missing, said Carl Melford, emergency manager in Gila County, but he couldn't specify a number. "We now have a massive search and rescue underway," he said. According to the National Weather Service in Phoenix, the Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport on Friday saw the highest one-day rainfall total in nearly seven years. It was also the city's fourth wettest day in recorded history since 2000. Rain poured down and quickly flooded the downtown area Friday, Melford said. One of the first areas hit was a propane tank distributor, sending about 1,000 residential-sized tanks throughout the community, he said. "There's propane tanks everywhere through downtown Globe," he said, adding that hazmat workers have been sent to the scene. "Luckily none of them ignited or exploded." The area previously experienced flooding in 2021 after a wildfire, but it didn't happen like this, Melford said. "This was an extremely heavy amount of rain in an extremely short period of time," he said. Authorities are asking residents to not go out searching in the floodwaters because search and rescue officials are accompanied by dogs who might pick up the scent of aspiring volunteers instead of possible flood victims. If people want to help, they should start by assisting friends and neighbors in need, Melford said. Globe city council members declared an emergency, saying they have never seen anything like the flooding. Scores of people have stepped up to volunteer, Gameros said, adding that many buildings in the community's downtown have been damaged. Officials asked people to stay away from the area until they could ensure it is safe to go in there. "Our primary, again, is search and rescue," Gameros said Saturday. After Charlie Kirk assassination, Utah Gov. Cox urges U.S. away from division, violence Government shutdown likely, CBS News' Robert Costa says after conversation with Trump Why crickets are as good as a thermometer Iwao Hakamata suffered extreme mental and physical anguish awaiting execution for 46 years - The Asahi Shimbun via Getty Images The evidence against Iwao Hakamata appeared irrefutable. A year after the miso factory worker was arrested in August 1966 on suspicion of stabbing his manager to death, the victims wife and their two teenage children, police said they had discovered the five pieces of blood-stained clothing he wore during the attack. Each victim had suffered between five and 16 stab wounds. Police said they had discovered five pieces of blood-stained clothing Hakamata wore during the murderous assault - NHK From inside a 3ft barrel filled with eight tonnes of fermented soybean paste, detectives claimed to have retrieved a T-shirt, an overshirt, a pair of underpants and two pairs of trousers. The bright-red stains on the clothes, coupled with a confession Mr Hakamata gave to police under questioning, sealed his fate. On Sept 11, 1968, at the Shizuoka District Court in southern Japan, Mr Hakamata, then 30 years old, was sentenced to death by a panel of three judges. For the next 46 years, the former professional boxer sat on death row, earning the unenviable status of the worlds longest-serving prisoner to await execution. Iwao Hakamata, pictured here in 1957, was briefly a professional boxer - Hakamata Defence Lawyers In 2014, he was released by a judge on the grounds the retrieved clothes were not those of the defendant. Then, in September last year came the ultimate vindication. Following a public campaign led by Hideko, his elder sister, the 89-year-old was granted a retrial and exonerated of all crimes, leaving the identity of the real killer a mystery. The crux of the prosecutions argument that Mr Hakamata, who was a live-in worker at the plant, had dumped his clothes in the barrel of dark brown miso to conceal evidence of his murders was found to be a fabrication thanks to the efforts of a team of scientists from Kurume University. For decades, prosecutors had refused to produce colour photographs of the clothes until the retrial. Hideko Hakamata, sister of the former boxer, led the public campaign for a retrial - KAZUHIRO NOGI/AFP It emerged that detectives had in fact planted the clothes inside the barrel shortly before their discovery and had tortured a confession out of Mr Hakamata through rounds of violent interrogations, lasting a total of 264 hours over 23 days. I could do nothing but crouch down on the floor trying to keep from defecating, Mr Hakamata later told his sister. One of the interrogators put my thumb onto an ink pad, drew it to a written confession record and ordered me, Write your name here! [while] shouting at me, kicking me and wrenching my arm. Extremely low dissolved oxygen levels in miso In a research paper published last month, Dr Yoshiro Koda and Dr Mikiko Soejiman explained how they proved that the clothes, if they were indeed blood-stained and worn by the murderer, could not have remained bright red if submerged in miso for more than a year. The scientists looked at how haemoglobin becomes methemoglobin, a process where the haemoglobin is enriched with oxygen and changes in its chemical composition, structure and appearance, to see how quickly this happens in miso. No previous studies had looked at how much oxygen was in miso so the scientists did their own analysis of five commercially available miso brands as well as a homemade variety to determine how much oxygen they contained. No previous studies had looked at how much oxygen was in miso so the scientists did their own analysis - YUICHI YAMAZAKI/AFP Their findings revealed extremely low dissolved oxygen levels in miso. The court ruled that the length of time the blood-stained clothes were allegedly in the tank would see the stains lose all redness, and the fact they were red in the evidence revealed they could not be authentic, and therefore planted by prosecutors. The Shizuoka District Court judges concluded that if the five pieces of clothing that the defendant was allegedly wearing at the time of the crime were placed in miso for one year and two months, the bloodstains would not retain any redness, the study authors wrote in their paper, published in Scientific Reports. Subsequently, they found the defendant not guilty because they determined that the clothes were not worn at the time of the crime and therefore could not have been placed there by the defendant. Hakamata suffered extreme mental and physical anguish Koshi Kunii, the presiding judge, said the clothes were clearly a fabrication, adding: They were manufactured by the investigators by adding unrelated bloodstains, and hidden in the tank shortly before they were recovered. He said: We cannot recognise Mr Hakamata as the culprit. [The investigators] effectively infringed [Mr Hakamatas] right to silence, and used physical and psychological torture to force statements. The court ruled that the length of time the blood-stained clothes were allegedly in the tank would see the stains lose all redness - PHILIP FONG/AFP Hideyo Ogawaw, one of Mr Hakamatas lawyers, described the ruling of evidence fabrication by police as epoch-making. Theyve lost all means of proving the case, he said. Mr Hakamata is seeking 3m in damages from the central and prefectural governments. He was previously awarded 1.1m in compensation, the largest amount of such compensation ever granted. The lawyers said the damages claim covers lost income during his time in custody and care expenses after his release. In his decision on the compensation Judge Kunii said that Mr Hakamata suffered extreme mental and physical anguish as he was in custody for about 33 years only awaiting execution. Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 1 month with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more. Deston Munden, a fantasy and science fiction writer from North Carolina, shared something deeply personal on September 9, 2024. At 34, he booked a hotel room for the very first time and recorded the moment in a short Instagram video. Nervous but proud, he described the step as the biggest thing Ive ever done. People didnt dismiss it. They understood why it mattered to him, and the video drew a wave of encouragement. Comments came in from strangers who recognized the courage it takes to say out loud that something so ordinary can feel overwhelming. Cheered On By A Star Image via Getty Images/svetikd The support kept growing, with messages coming in from well-known accounts. Among them was five-time Grammy winner SZA, who wrote, I hope you have the best trip!!! Deston later said that hearing from her left him buzzing with excitement. He hadnt expected so many people to take an interest in a step that felt so personal. The trip itself had special meaning. Deston wasnt booking a room for a vacation but for a work trip to New York City, where he was scheduled to attend an event for his newest book, Recipes for an Unexpected Afterlife. Its his third novel, following Dusk Orbit Blues and The Dargath Chronicles. He noted that he hasnt traveled much beyond his hometown, which made the idea of staying in a big city both exciting and a little daunting. Learning To Enjoy The Ride Deston plans to drive to New York with a friend, which will help ease some of his worries about navigating a new environment. As a self-described country man from North Carolina, he admitted that the noise and pace of the city might overwhelm him. Still, hes determined to push through and enjoy the experience. The encouragement from strangers online made him feel like anything is possible. It also gave him the push to believe he could break out of his small area and eventually see more of the world, maybe even other countries. For many people, the hardest part is taking that first step, and thats precisely what Deston did. By being open about how scary it felt, he made it easier for others to relate and root for him. A Few Helpful Travel Tips Image via Canva/annastills For anyone else facing similar nerves about traveling, small changes can make a big difference. Start by trying new things close to home, such as a restaurant or museum, to build your confidence. When booking, look for hotels with flexible cancellation policies to minimize stress and ensure a smooth stay. Reading recent reviews helps you feel prepared, and calling ahead with questions can remove some of the mystery. Packing a few comfort items, like snacks or headphones, can also keep nerves in check. Visit Dubois County The town square in Jasper, Indiana. Key Points Southern Indianas relocation program offers up to $5,000 to professionals who move to one of eight rural counties. Popular towns like Jasper attract newcomers with easy outdoor access, community events, and a family-friendly atmosphere. The initiative includes social events and outdoor activities to help new residents feel welcome in their new homes. If youve been considering a lower cost of living and a slower pace of life, southern Indiana has a compelling offer: move to a rural community, and you'll get $5,000 to do it. The "Choose Southern Indiana" program, launched in summer 2021, is an initiative focused on bringing more residents to eight counties across South Central Indiana, including Jasper in Dubois County. Started by Radius Indiana, a regional economic development organization, more than 100 people and their families have moved to the area. "We get a lot of people that don't know a soul here, but they're coming because of a job or because they like the quality of life," says Kristal Painter, who oversees the program. "They're looking for somewhere where they might be able to have a yard, or neighbors, or its safe for their kids to go to school or play outside." For remote workers, the program has two tiers: $5,000 for those earning at least $50,000 annually, and a new $3,000 option for people who make between $40,000 and $49,999. Professional workers willing to take local jobs may also qualify for an incentive program. Once they are hired by a local employer, they can apply for the $5,000 incentive. Visit Dubois County A family playing corn hole on Main Street in Jasper. Visit Dubois County The Spirit of Jasper Train and Depot. The incentive is split into two paymentshalf upon moving, half after one year of residency. Applicants must currently live outside Indiana and commit to staying for at least two years. With a population of about 17,000, Jasper, Indiana, has emerged as one of the program's most popular destinations. The town, known as "Wood Capital of the World," is home to major furniture manufacturers and has attracted new residents to work for many local businesses, including St. Benedict's Brew Works, which even recruited its master brewer through the program. The small-town vibe appeals to people like Sam Brodrick, who moved to Jasper from Mumford, Tennessee, in the spring of 2024. Brodrick was initially skeptical of the program (even thinking it was a scam), but his family settled in quicklyand the sense of safety and Midwestern charm have been hugely positive to him. Jasper, located about two hours south of Indianapolis, is also a fun day trip option. The revitalized downtown square hosts monthly community events, and Jasper has invested heavily in public art with a walking Art Loop with 13 murals and statues within four blocks of the town center. And the Choose Southern Indiana program goes way beyond just writing checks. Quarterly events help newcomers feel welcome, with activities like kayaking, hiking in the Hoosier National Forest, and Amish bread-making demonstrations. The community-building efforts seem to be workingof the 100 people who've relocated so far, only six have left. For those in the know, it's little wonder. With its easy outdoor access and a family-friendly vibe, it can be hard not to fall in love with southern Indiana. Read the original article on Travel & Leisure NEW YORK, Sept. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Why: Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, announces an investigation of potential securities claims on behalf of investors in Unicoin Rights Certificates issued by Unicoin, Inc. f/k/a TransparentBusiness, Inc. resulting from allegations that Unicoin may have issued materially misleading business information to the investing public. So What: If you purchased Unicoin Rights Certificates you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out of pocket fees or costs through a contingency fee arrangement. The Rosen Law Firm is preparing a class action seeking recovery of investor losses. What to do next: To join the prospective class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=44368 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email [email protected] for information on the class action. What is this about: On May 27, 2025, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") published a litigation release on the SEC's website under the title "Unicoin, Top Executives Charged in Offering Fraud That Raised More than $100 Million from Thousands of Investors." The announcement stated that on May 20, 2025, the SEC had charged "Unicoin, Inc. and four of its top executives [. . .] for false and misleading statements in an offering of certificates that purportedly conveyed rights to receive crypto assets called Unicoin tokens and an offering of Unicoin, Inc.'s common stock." Why Rosen Law: We encourage investors to select qualified counsel with a track record of success in leadership roles. Often, firms issuing notices do not have comparable experience, resources, or any meaningful peer recognition. Many of these firms do not actually litigate securities class actions. Be wise in selecting counsel. The Rosen Law Firm represents investors throughout the globe, concentrating its practice in securities class actions and shareholder derivative litigation. Rosen Law Firm achieved the largest ever securities class action settlement against a Chinese Company at the time. At the time Rosen Law Firm was Ranked No. 1 by ISS Securities Class Action Services for number of securities class action settlements in 2017. The firm has been ranked in the top 4 each year since 2013 and has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors. In 2019 alone the firm secured over $438 million for investors. In 2020, founding partner Laurence Rosen was named by law360 as a Titan of Plaintiffs' Bar. Many of the firm's attorneys have been recognized by Lawdragon and Super Lawyers. Follow us for updates on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-rosen-law-firm, on Twitter: https://twitter.com/rosen_firm or on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rosenlawfirm/. Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Contact Information: Laurence Rosen, Esq. Phillip Kim, Esq. The Rosen Law Firm, P.A. 275 Madison Avenue, 40th Floor New York, NY 10016 Tel: (212) 686-1060 Toll Free: (866) 767-3653 Fax: (212) 202-3827 [email protected] www.rosenlegal.com SOURCE THE ROSEN LAW FIRM, P. A. DETROIT At least four people are dead and several others were injured after a man crashed a vehicle into a Michigan church, opened fire with a rifle, and set the building ablaze during Sunday service, authorities said. The suspect was identified as Thomas Jacob Sanford, a 40-year-old from the neighboring city of Burton, according to Grand Blanc Township Police Chief William Renye. Sanford died after exchanging gunfire with responding officers in the church's parking lot. Hundreds of people were attending the service at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc, a suburb of Flint, Michigan, when the suspect rammed a pickup truck into the church, Renye said at an earlier news conference. He then exited the vehicle and fired "several rounds" at people inside the church with an assault rifle, Renye said. Police believe the suspect also "deliberately" set the building on fire, which was extinguished by the Grand Blanc Township Fire Department, according to Renye. Videos on social media and local television stations showed flames and smoke billowing from the church. Ten people suffered gunshot wounds, including two who were pronounced dead. Seven of the hospitalized victims are stable, and one is in critical condition, Renye previously said. Two more bodies were discovered in the church, and authorities were still searching for additional victims, Renye said during an 8 p.m. ET news conference. Earlier, the police chief said authorities believed they would find more victims once they found the area where the fire was. Scenes in Michigan as police, community respond to Mormon church shooting and fire A silver truck is seen outside of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as local authorities work to contain a fire on Sunday, Sept. 28, 2025. The Federal Bureau of Investigation is leading the investigation into the shooting and is investigating the incident "as an act of targeted violence," said Reuben Coleman, the acting special agent in charge of the FBI's Detroit field office. "This act of violence has no place in our state or anywhere else in our country," Coleman said. "The FBI is committed to continue finding out the facts, circumstances, and motives behind this tragedy." Church is a 'total loss' due to fire; some people 'unaccounted for' During the 8 p.m. ET news conference, Renye said the chapel was a "total loss" due to the fire, and authorities were working to find additional bodies. Earlier on Sunday, police described the scene as "incredibly catastrophic." "The entire church has not been cleared because it's a total loss due to the fire," the police chief said. "So these first responders right now, they're in recovery mode. They're trying to fight through all the debris from the fire." He added that some people are "unaccounted for." Fire at church was set with accelerant, ATF says The suspect used an accelerant, believed to be gasoline, to set the church on fire, according to James Deir, special agent in charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives Detroit Field Division. "I will confirm that there were some suspected explosive devices that were located," Deir said at the news conference Sunday night. "But as far as using them to initiate the blaze, we cant say that." Local police chief praises heroism of first responders, community members Renye praised the heroic actions of "not only the first responders, but the people who were inside that church at the time." "They were shielding the children who are also present within the church, moving them to safety," he said, adding that hundreds of people were attending Sunday services to practice their faith. "Our thoughts and prayers go out to the victims of this incident," Renye said. "It's very tragic, and that's not what our community is. I'm confident that we're going to overcome this." State police continue to respond to bomb threats in community Michigan State Police have responded to additional bomb threats at several locations throughout the community, spokesperson Lt. Kim Vetter said at the 8 p.m. ET news conference. She added that state police searched and cleared multiple churches on Sunday evening. The threats came after the suspect was killed in the church shooting, according to Vetter. Please, continue to stay vigilant, and if you see something suspicious, say something," Vetter said. Michigan church shooting suspect: What we know about Thomas Jacob Sanford Who is Thomas Jacob Sanford? The suspect's hometown of Burton is about eight miles north of Grand Blanc. The suspect also went by "Jake" to many of his acquaintances, according to records and past news reports. Sanford appears to have been a veteran of the U.S. Marines, according to posts by Sanford's mother on her Facebook page. Sanford did stints in Japan and Iraq after graduating from Goodrich High School in 2003, according to a 2007 news article from the Clarkston News. In one post, Sanford's mother posted a photo of Sanford in his Marine uniform. "Thank you to our son.. service 2004-2008.. Iraq Veteran!!" she wrote. The Pentagon did not respond to a request from USA TODAY seeking information about Sanford's military record. Sunday's shooting appears to be the second incident involving a Marine veteran in less than 24 hours. In North Carolina, another Marine veteran was charged in connection with a mass shooting that killed three people and left at least eight others injured at a riverside bar on Saturday. Chris Quintana, Joey Garrison, and Dinah Voyles Pulver Police chief: Officers rushed to the scene within 30 seconds of receiving emergency calls During the 5 p.m. ET news conference, Renye said authorities received a 911 call at about 10:25 a.m. and officers responded within about 30 seconds. Earlier in the day, Renye said two officers, one from Grand Blanc Township and another from the state Department of Natural Resources, immediately responded to the scene and engaged the suspect in an exchange of gunfire. The suspect was "neutralized" at around 10:33 a.m. in the church's parking lot, according to Renye. "They met the suspect and engaged in gunfire with that particular individual, neutralizing that suspect, and that suspect is no longer with us," he said. A shooter attacked children in prayer: Has America hit a new low? Shooting victims received treatment at local hospital Victims were receiving medical treatment at Henry Ford Genesys Hospital, according to Renye. The hospital confirmed in a statement to USA TODAY that it cared for 10 people injured in the shooting and fire at the church. "The hospital is fully staffed with experienced caregivers and able to care for all our patients," a hospital spokesperson said in the statement. "Our hearts go out to our patients, their families, and the communityincluding the people worshipping when the tragic act of violence occurred." The incident occurred as nurses at the hospital were on strike, according to Teamsters Local 332, the union representing the nurses. Some nurses had left the picket line to assist first responders but were turned away due to the labor dispute, The Detroit News reported. "We understand and appreciate the Teamsters' instinct to care for their neighbors during this time of heartbreak, and we will not hesitate to reach out if we need additional assistance," the hospital spokesperson said. "We look forward to coming together again soon to care for our community." Grand Blanc Township supervisor: 'We are heartbroken' Grand Blanc is about 60 miles northwest of Detroit, Michigan. As of the 2020 census, the city had a population of about 7,700 people. "We are heartbroken," Grand Blanc Township Supervisor Scott Bennett said at an earlier news conference. "This kind of violence doesn't happen in our community, and we are heartbroken that it came to Grand Blanc Township." Bennett added: "And we're going to do everything we can to support the families, the victims, and our community getting through this situation." 'Yet another targeted attack': Trump sounds alarm after Michigan church mass shooting Law enforcement searching the suspect's residence Police said they will conduct search warrants on the suspect's residence and search cellphone records. Several law enforcement agencies were assisting local authorities in the investigation, including 100 FBI agents, Michigan State Police, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. A Michigan State Police helicopter circled overhead, and dozens of police vehicles had the road blocked in front of the home. A bomb squad vehicle with bulldozer tracks and an armored cab was also stationed out front, with other vehicles, including two bomb squad vans, multiple police cruisers and an ambulance waiting at the ready. At one point, a robot and a drone were deployed. Nearby homes were evacuated. One officer on the scene advised reporters to move back, saying there was a small possibility of an explosion. He stressed it was likely a small possibility, but wanted people to be aware. People embrace near the scene of a shooting at a church in Grand Blanc, Michigan, on Sept. 28, 2025. Church member: 'I am very shaken up' As church attendees left the theater, some rushed to family members and friends waiting outside, hugging and weeping. Survivors evacuated from the church were taken to the nearby NCG Trillium Cinema for "reunification and questioning," an officer told the Detroit Free Press, part of the USA TODAY Network. Stephanie Giddings, who lives in nearby Fenton, went to the reunification site to be close to her fellow church members. She said she had to leave work early because "I am very shaken up." "They're family," she said, noting that her daughter had been baptized recently at the chapel. Trump responds to Michigan church shooting In a Truth Social post, President Donald Trump said the Federal Bureau of Investigation immediately responded to the scene in Grand Blanc. The FBI will be leading the federal investigation into the shooting and will provide "full support" to state and local officials, according to Trump. "The suspect is dead, but there is still a lot to learn," Trump said in the post. "This appears to be yet another targeted attack on Christians in the United States of America." "The Trump Administration will keep the Public posted, as we always do," he added. "In the meantime, PRAY for the victims and their families. THIS EPIDEMIC OF VIOLENCE IN OUR COUNTRY MUST END, IMMEDIATELY!" 'A tragic act of violence': Church of Jesus Chris of Latter-day Saints The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints released a statement following the shooting, calling the incident a tragic act of violence. "The Church is in communication with local law enforcement as the investigation continues and as we receive updates on the condition of those affected," the church's spokesperson Doug Andersen said in the statement. "We offer thanks to the emergency responders who are assisting victims and families." We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of prayers and concern from so many people around the world, he said. In moments of sorrow and uncertainty, we find strength and comfort through our faith in Jesus Christ. Places of worship are meant to be sanctuaries of peacemaking, prayer and connection. We pray for peace and healing for all involved. Neighbors recount scene outside Michigan church Phillip Cotter, a Clio resident, stood at the police cordon on Sunday morning. He said he was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc but was not in attendance at the morning service. "I know everyone who was there," he said, choking up with emotion and tears welling up in his eyes. "I don't know what God has planned for us, but I trust him," Cotter said. Grand Blanc resident Tony Deck said he was sitting on his backyard patio about 10:15 a.m. ET, when he heard sirens coming from Saginaw Street, about 300 yards from the church. "I drove up before a lot of the police and ambulances got here, got out of my truck and ran towards it to see if there was anything I could do to help," he said. "There was a silver Chevy Silverado that had been driven into the side of the church not even through the doors." "There were at least four yellow canvases over dead bodies that I could see at the time." As of noon, Deck said first responders had blocked off the area, preventing him from leaving. The church, he said, "is completely destroyed." Sheriff: 'Entire church is on fire' Christopher Swanson, sheriff of Genesee County, Michigan, posted an update on Facebook just before noon ET on Sunday. This is a dynamic scene, Swanson said. The entire church is on fire. The people that were here have been evacuated. We do have victims here, were working on that, he added. Swanson said he was asked by the Grand Blanc Township police to share the information. "The shooter is down. We do have multiple victims," he said. "Just know that theres a lot of things that are happening that we are not able to communicate just because of the work that needs to be done." A family emotionally reunites at the Trillium Theater located across the street from the site of a shooting and fire at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc, Michigan. Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer thanks first responders Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said in a statement on X that her office is monitoring the situation in Grand Blanc. "My heart is breaking for the Grand Blanc community. Violence anywhere, especially in a place of worship, is unacceptable," Whitmer wrote. "I am grateful to the first responders who took action quickly. We will continue to monitor the situation and hold The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc close." Members of Michigan's congressional delegation, including Sen. Elissa Slotkin and Rep. Debbie Dingell, thanked officials, offered condolences to families of the victims, and offered support in statements on social media. "We will know more in the coming days and weeks. And there will be more to say. But today, we send our strength to those involved who must now try and pick up the pieces and grieve," Slotkin said. Shooting comes after Mormon church leader's death The shooting comes a day after the president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints passed away. Russell M. Nelson, the oldest person ever to lead the church, died late Sept. 27 at his Salt Lake City home. He was 101 years old. Nelson's tenure as president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was marked by several sweeping policy changes, including a 2019 rollback of a policy that labeled same-sex member couples apostates and barred their minor children from religious rites. President Russell M. Nelson of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints dies at 101 Russell M. Nelson, a heart surgeon and president of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, died on Sept. 27, 2025 at the age of 101. He's shown here as a student at Roosevelt Junior High in Salt Lake City, Utah in 1936. Law enforcement in other US cities increase patrols at places of worship Officials announced on Sunday that law enforcement officers will be deployed to places of worship in Los Angeles and New York City out of an abundance of caution. Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass and the New York City Police Department said in separate statements that agencies will provide additional resources and increase patrols at religious institutions across the two cities. The reports of a mass shooting and fire during Sunday services at an LDS church in Michigan are devastating, Bass said in a statement on X. This type of violence is reprehensible and should have no place in our country. My heart is with the families impacted and the entire Grand Blanc community. Texas Gov. Greg Abbott also decried the shooting in Michigan, saying the escalation of violent attacks against people and places of faith is heinous and must end. Abbott said in a statement on X that he has directed the state's Department of Public Safety to form task forces with local and federal law enforcement to better safeguard our places of worship. The shooting is the latest attack on a place of worship in the United States. On Aug. 27, a shooter opened fire through the windows of a church in Minneapolis, killing two children and injuring at least 18 others, including 15 children and three parishioners in their 80s. Contributing: Chris Quintana, Joey Garrison, and Dinah Voyles Pulver, USA TODAY; Detroit Free Press This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Michigan church shooting: Death toll climbs as FBI investigates attack PHOENIX The No. 1 seed Minnesota Lynx will be without their star forward Napheesa Collier for Game 4 of the WNBA semifinals, the team announced Saturday. Collier went down with a left ankle injury with 21.8 seconds remaining in a Game 3 loss to the Phoenix Mercury. Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve said afterward Collier "probably has a fracture." Reeve was also suspended Saturday for her rant against the officiating postgame. "When you let the physicality happen, people get hurt, theres fights and this is the look that our league wants for some reason," Reeve said. "One of the best players in the league shot zero free throws. Zero. And she had five fouls ... She got her shoulder pulled out and finished the game with her leg being taken out." The Mercury lead the best-of-five series two games to one and would advance to the WNBA Finals with a victory Sunday at PHX Arena (8 p.m. ET, ESPN) Here's what we know about Collier's injury: WNBA playoffs 2025: See the basketball stars in action in the second round Sept. 21: The Minnesota Lynx's Courtney Williams (10) dribbles the ball past the Phoenix Mercury's Alyssa Thomas (25) during Game 1 at Target Center. Mandatory Credit: Jesse Johnson-Imagn Images Is Napheesa Collier playing vs. Mercury on Sunday? The Minnesota Lynx announced Napheesa Collier will not play Sunday in Game 4 of the semifinals. Napheesa Collier injury timeline Collier's injury happened when Mercury forward Alyssa Thomas cleanly swiped the ball from Collier with 23.8 seconds left in Game 3 as the Mercury led 82-76. Thomas appeared to make contact with Collier's knee, resulting in Collier turning her left ankle. Collier went down clutching her ankle and did not return. No foul was called on the play, infuriating Reeve and leading to her second technical foul and subsequent ejection. Collier was previously sidelined for seven games with a right ankle sprain after landing awkwardly in Minnesota's blowout victory over the Las Vegas Aces on Aug. 2. Minnesota went 5-2 during that stretch.The USA TODAY app gets you to the heart of the news fast. Download for award-winning coverage, crosswords, audio storytelling, the eNewspaper and more. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Napheesa Collier injury update; Lynx All-Star out Sunday New Jersey's closely-watched gubernatorial race was jolted Thursday after the National Archives blamed a technician's mistake for the release of Congresswoman and New Jersey gubernatorial candidate Mikie Sherrill's unredacted military records. Sherrill and some Democratic allies are calling for an investigation, saying the release was no mistake but an extension of President Donald Trump's effort to weaponize the federal government against his political opponents. Responding to a routine records request, the National Archives released Sherrill's unredacted military records that show she had an unblemished career in the Navy, including a 1991 medal for saving the life of a fellow classmate. But the records contained unredacted information such as Sherrill's Social Security number. MORE: New Jersey governor candidates grapple over whether it's a bellwether "Well, it's really scary in these times, of course, to have all that private information in the public But I think what this shows too, is that my opponent and the Trump administration will stop at nothing. They will completely weaponize the federal government to achieve what they want," Sherrill said Friday on MSNBC. Asked if she suspects anything "nefarious," she said, "I more than suspect." ABC News has reached out to the White House about Sherrill's claims she's being targeted by the administration. Noah K. Murray/AP - PHOTO: Democrat Mikie Sherrill responds to questions during the first general election gubernatorial debate with Republican opponent Jack Ciattarelli, Sept. 21, 2025, in Lawrenceville, N.J. ABC News has not obtained or viewed the records. CBS News, which first reported on the records release, said that it had been investigating if Sherrill was involved in a scandal in 1994 where more than 130 Midshipmen were implicated in a cheating scandal. No documents released or obtained by news outlets have shown that Sherrill was involved in the cheating, but because she did not report her classmates, she was not permitted to walk at graduation. Sherrill said this was a 30-year-old widely reported incident that does not reflect on her military service. Her campaign has not provided other documentation about the incident, but other records have shown that her graduation date and commission date were identical, indicating the Navy did not have an issue with her graduating. Her Republican opponent, Jack Ciattarelli, said her admission raises concerns. "Today's admission by Congresswoman Sherrill that she was implicated in, and punished for, her involvement in the largest cheating and honor code scandal in the history of the United States Navy is both stunning and deeply disturbing," Ciatterelli's campaign said in a statement on Thursday. Noah K. Murray/AP - PHOTO: Republican Jack Ciattarelli responds to questions during the first general election gubernatorial debate with Democrat Mikie Sherrill, Sept. 21, 2025, in Lawrenceville, N.J. "For eight years, Mikie Sherrill has built her entire political brand around her time at the Naval Academy and in the Navy, all the while concealing her involvement in the scandal and her punishment. The people of New Jersey deserve complete and total transparency," Ciatterelli's campaign said. CBS News reported that the request came from Ciattarelli ally Nicholas De Gregorio, who was tasked with doing so by political operative Chris Russell. Russell, on Thursday, pointed to the National Archives' apology and said the request error came in response to documents not related to the cheating scandal. "FACT: The National Archives provided documents in response to a legitimate and perfectly legal FOIA request. Documents, btw, that had NOTHING to do with the cheating scandal," Russell wrote on X on Thursday. MORE: Sherrill, Ciattarelli win New Jersey gubernatorial primaries where Trump is front and center "The National Archives then apologized to the requestor and took full responsibility for their error. Now... it's time for Rep. Sherrill to come clean and authorize release of all of her records." The National Archives, on its end, admitted in a letter, shared by the Sherrill campaign, it "should have provided only information that is releasable to the public under the FOIA. Unfortunately, however, in responding to the request, we released the comprehensive record, including personal information such as your social security number and date of birth We have already reached out to the requester, Nicholas De Gregorio, and asked that he not further disseminate the information that was released to him in error." ABC News has reached out to the National Archives for comment on the record release. Noah K. Murray/AP - PHOTO: Republican candidate Jack Ciattarelli shake hands with Democratic candidate for governor Mikie Sherrill before their debate Sept. 21, 2025, in Lawrenceville, N.J. The Sherrill campaign said it is considering legal action, and that counsel for Sherrill has already sent letters to the National Archives, Ciattarelli campaign, Russell, and De Gregorio. "We are calling on Jack Ciattarelli and the Trump administration to immediately stop illegally distributing Mikie Sherrill's military files, with protected personal information like her Social Security Number, and we will explore appropriate legal action," campaign spokesperson Sean Higgins said in a statement on Thursday. "To have a guy I'm running against who will stop at nothing to illegally obtain records, it's beyond the pale," Sherrill said at an event on Thursday. The records request, according to CBS News, was done through a routine and legal procedure and recognized the request would redact personal information. Ciatterelli, in a statement Friday, called for his Sherrill to share more documents from her time in the Naval Academy. "The real issue at hand is exactly why Congresswoman Sherrill was barred from walking at her graduation? What specific honor concept violations was she punished for The only way to determine any of these answers is through her authorizing full and immediate release of all academic, disciplinary, and investigatory records related to her time at the Academy and the scandal itself," he wrote. House Democratic leader Rep. Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y., on Thursday called for a criminal investigation. "Mikie Sherrill is a patriot and a hero who has served this country, graduated from the naval academy, helicopter pilot, tours of duty in dangerous places overseas and the Middle East, came home, served as a federal prosecutor, is a supermom and a great public servant and a member of Congress," Jeffries said. "It is outrageous that Donald Trump and his administration and political hacks connected to them continue to violate the law and they will be held accountable." Editor's note: This story has been updated. Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek (D) on Saturday said the city of Portland did not need National Guard soldiers to help protect Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facilities as ordered by President Trump earlier in the day. In my conversations directly with President Trump and [Homeland Security] Secretary Noem, I have been abundantly clear with them that Portland and the state of Oregon believe in the rule of law, and we can manage our own local public safety needs, Kotek said during a Saturday morning news conference. There is no insurrection. There is no threat to national security, and there is no need for military troops in our major city, she added. Earlier in the day, the president suggested the city was under siege. At the request of Secretary of Homeland Security, Kristi Noem, I am directing Secretary of War, Pete Hegseth, to provide all necessary Troops to protect War ravaged Portland, and any of our ICE Facilities under siege from attack by Antifa, and other domestic terrorists, the president wrote in a post on Truth Social. I am also authorizing Full Force, if necessary, Trump added. His comments follow a violent attack on an ICE field office in Texas earlier this week, where one detainee was killed and two others were injured. However, Kotek said Portland is not suffering from alleged threats to safety and urged Trump to redirect the military toward areas of need. Military service members should be dedicated to real emergencies. The members of the Oregon National Guard, their mission is to stand up and protect Oregonians, and they will do that every day, but they are not needed in the city. They are not needed here, Kotek reiterated during the Saturday press conference. The Oregon governor also mentioned that she reached out to California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) and Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker (D) to assess how they responded to the White Houses push to deploy soldiers in their states without prior notice. An NPR-Ipsos poll published Saturday found a plurality of Americans oppose Trumps recent National Guard deployment to some cities. The administration has refused to elaborate on what they mean when they say they will deploy full force against our city and citizens, Kotek told the public. Rep. Suzanne Bonamici (D-Ore.) also said she was unsure of why Trump would be sending military forces to Portland. I was at the ICE facility a couple of days ago. I was in Portland yesterday on the east side for a meeting and last night for an event. Nowhere did I see one single indication that we need military troops here, Bonamici said at the news conference with Kotek. I strongly oppose this action by the president, and I thank the governor and the mayor for their words. By the end of August, Portland police recorded 1,982 aggravated assaults, 2,595 burglaries and 25 homicides, according to city data. Over the same time period in 2024, the city had recorded 2,060 aggravated assaults, 2,924 burglaries and 50 homicides. The Trump administrations intent to deploy soldiers to the city follows National Guard deployments to Los Angeles; Washington, D.C.; and Memphis, Tenn., earlier this year. Soldiers have been sent to Democrat-led cities, which has at times led to protests. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill. Paris and Tyson Fury's daughter Venezuela got engaged at her 16th birthday party, with her boyfriend Noah Price proposing on the dance floor. In a video uploaded to Paris's Instagram page on Saturday, 27 September, footage showed the teenage couple dancing together before Price, 15, gets down on one knee. Molly-Mae Hague, who shares daughter Bambi with Tyson's half-brother Tommy Fury, wrote "Congratulations special girl" in the post comments. Paris said she was "in shock" but "very happy" for the pair, adding that she and Tyson "couldn't be prouder." As a child in Cuba, Mike Fernandez watched as his teachers were replaced with government instructors, books vanished from classroom shelves and ultimately, Communist Party officials took over his dad's tiny sandwich stand. Now the self-made billionaire and longtime Republican campaign donor watches uncomfortably from South Florida as President Donald Trump takes many of the same steps he saw under Fidel Castro. Like many people who fled to the United States from authoritarian regimes, Fernandez says the United States appears to be at a tipping point, with Trump centralizing power to silence dissent and punish people he's declared enemies, while bullying private businesses to fall in line. Protesters rally in support of Jimmy Kimmel People participate in a protest, organized by the Writers Guild of America East, against ABC's decision to suspend Jimmy Kimmel from his late night show on Sept. 19, 2025 in New York City. ABC suspended Kimmel over comments he made about Charlie Kirk's shooting. "There's something wrong, and we all know it," Fernandez told USA TODAY. "Many people are hoping it's going to go away on its own, and it's not going to go away on its own." The billionaire emigre added: "I'm scared of how fast we're moving." Trump argues that the 2024 election he won represents a mandate from American voters who endorsed his muscular leadership approach. Trump has justified his actions as necessary to secure the United States from both an "invasion" of immigrants and what he describes as the unwillingness of Democratic officials to stamp out visible homelessness, halt certain types of crimes and prevent civil disorder. A historical analysis by Gallup shows Trump's approval ratings in August of his first years in office both as the 45th and 47th presidents are lower than any other modern president at the same time in their administrations. In Gallup's polling, roughly 40% currently approve of Trump's job performance. Despite the unfavorable polling, Trump has repeatedly suggested that he would serve a third term as president although the Constitution prevents him from being elected again and openly mused about how other countries have canceled elections during war or other national emergencies. Warning signs of authoritarianism People who have fled authoritarian regimes say it's a combination of actions that are cause for concern right now in the United States, especially after Trump declared at activist Charlie Kirk's funeral that he "hates" his opponents. Those interviewed by USA TODAY raised a host of parallels they see between the authoritarian leadership of their native countries and Trump's actions over the last eight months: Routine use of military forces to disperse anti-government protests, especially over the objection of local officials, as happened in California and Washington, DC. Declarations that certain rights, especially for certain groups, must be curtailed because of a national emergency, such as ending due process hearings for accused undocumented immigrants. Singling out minority groups for harsh and selective prosecutions, often based on old laws. The White House has argued its immigration crackdown largely reflects a return to enforcing existing law that successive past presidents ignored. Reduced access to legal counsel, especially for those targeted minority groups. Nationalization of businesses deemed critical to the government's success. Trump announced on Aug. 22 that the federal government would purchase a 10% stake in struggling chipmaker Intel, and has expressed interest in buying into other companies as well. Frequent reminders of the government's power and role in dominating public life, in part. with monuments and banners dedicated to the leader. Earlier this year, three federal buildings in Washington were festooned with giant images of the president. Lack of free and fair elections, with leaders manipulating the system to remain in power. Trump has pressured several Republican-led states, including Texas, to redistrict to make it easier for Republicans to win seats in Congress. He has also spoken against popular mail-in ballots, saying without evidence that they are ripe for fraud. Using government power to punish or silence opponents and journalists, and declaring them enemies, as Trump has most recently done with late-night host Jimmy Kimmel. The Trump administration has argued that each one of these actions is necessary and consistent with its Make America Great Again agenda, and that the Biden administration was guilty of many seemingly authoritarian measures, too. Banners of presidents Donald Trump and Abraham Lincoln read "Growing America Since 1862" hang over the entrance to the United States Department of Agriculture in Washington, DC, on May 15, 2025. Tanks as common as ice cream trucks For Eddie Flores, growing up in El Salvador meant seeing military tanks rolling through neighborhoods as often as ice cream trucks. Flores' family fled the country's devastating civil war when he was 7. Last year, he became the first Salvadoran-born immigrant elected mayor of South San Francisco. Now, along with balancing the city's biotech cluster and creeping gentrification, he's also helping coordinate neighborhood groups opposed to Trump's mass immigration sweeps. More than a third of the citys residents are Hispanic, and despite concerns ahead of the citys popular Cultura Fest in August, no disruptions occurred. South San Francisco Mayor Eddie Flores is the first Salvadoran to serve in his position, and became just the second Latino mayor in the city's history. Flores' family immigrated to the United States during the height of the civil war in El Salvador in the 1980s. In the Los Angeles area, Trump's Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents have swept up thousands of undocumented immigrants, sometimes chasing them through the streets or farm fields. Protests against the ICE raids became violent, and Trump then deployed active-duty Marines and members of the California National Guard onto city streets over the objection of local officials. Trump has also deployed the National Guard to Washington, DC, and has threatened to unleash his newly renamed "Department of War" into Chicago. "I constantly tell my staff that we have to remain proactive and have systems in place before any harm arrives," Flores said. "It's about consistently showing up for your neighbors, not just when they are in need, so they don't have to live in the shadows." He added: "Authoritarianism has no place in a country built on pluralism, and we as leaders have to safeguard that promise." Recognizing patterns of behavior For a 41-year-old immigrant from the Middle East, the United States had long been a bastion of freedoms a place where the right to criticize the government is written into the nation's founding documents. Several members of his family have been detained in his home country for years for speaking out against their leaders. "We came here to express ourselves and have found ourselves in this dilemma that we'd never thought we'd face," said the man, who USA TODAY agreed not to identify. The man, a legal researcher who lives legally in the United States, is worried he might be targeted by the federal government for speaking freely. "It's very, very ironic that we now suggest to folks who are visiting us from outside the United States to delete apps, delete text conversations, delete images, even though they are completely innocent." The man, who is also a human rights expert for a nonprofit, said he's watched in fear as Trump has attacked the rule of law, singled out minority groups for harsh prosecution and declared emergencies or accused people of terrorism to justify some of his actions. He said Americans should heed the warnings of refugees like him who have lived under oppressive regimes and can recognize the patterns playing out. It's easy for people in society's mainstream to think what's happening to minority groups will never happen to them, he said, adding that he has been disappointed more Americans haven't been trying to halt Trump, given the country's founding system of checks and balances brought by the courts, Congress and a free press. "It's going to reach you at some point, and when it does, there'll be nobody there for you because you were never there for them," he said. Echoing childhood memories Like many other people who sought safety in the United States, Davis, California, resident Griselda Gonzalez said watching federal troops patrolling Los Angeles conjured up painful childhood memories. The Salvadoran native can vividly recall when she was 10, as guerrilla fighters stormed her hometown of San Salvador, the nations capital. The complex and brutal civil war in her country killed thousands. Visions of explosions and constant gunfire, even in the smallest neighborhoods, sometimes pop into her head. Griselda Gonzalez is the co-owner/CFO of her family-run business, CG Moving Company. The San Francisco Bay Area-based operation specializes in moving for biotech and healthcare firms. Her household consists of families who emigrated from El Salvador and Guatemala. Today, she's a married mother of three with a successful family-owned commercial moving company. But she said she's shocked by how much the United States now resembles the country she fled: constant threats of military deployments, along with ICE raids targeting people who look like her. "Five years ago, we were all fighting for our lives with COVID-19," said Gonzalez, who became a naturalized citizen in 2014. "Now we're worried about fighting for our basic rights?" Done staying quiet Fernandez, the Cuban refugee and American-made billionaire, became a U.S. citizen after serving as an Army paratrooper. He said he's long been content to influence U.S. politics by funding political candidates, most of them Republicans. But after watching how Trump and the people around him are behaving including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, whom he once strongly supported Fernandez said he's done staying quiet. Cuban-born billionaire Mike Fernandez used to support Republicans. Now, he's spending his fortune fighting what he sees as the Trump administration's centralization of power. He has begun funding a pro-immigrant campaign, bought anti-Trump advertisements in newspapers and is preparing to spend his fortune fighting what he sees as creeping authoritarianism and tyranny within the United States. "If I go back to zero, I will do so because I came here with nothing and I owe this country to reinvest to defend it from within," Fernandez said. "I think I owe it to the country. I owe it to my children and grandchildren to come back to a place where due process matters." The American people have more power than they think, Fernandez said. "The more we speak as a group, the less likely we are to be targeted. I see myself being targeted already. Will I stop? No," he said, encouraging everyone to speak out against what he sees as the president's anti-Americanism. "America used to be a great country," he added. "It isn't anymore, in the way it's been designed by the current administration." Trevor Hughes and Terry Collins are National Correspondents at USA TODAY. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Some who grew up under dictators have worries about America's future Marjorie Taylor Greene at a press conference next to a sign for the Georgia Congresswoman Marjorie Taylor Greene declared that people should remember she is not suicidal should something happen to her in the wake of her support of a petition for the release of the Epstein files. The conservative firebrand took to X on Saturday to dispel any notion that she would take her own life as she reiterated her desire to expose the Epstein rape and pedophile network. I am not suicidal and one of the happiest healthiest people you will meet, the Georgia Republican wrote on X. With that said, if something happens to me, I ask you all to find out which foreign government or powerful people would take heinous actions to stop the information from coming out, Greene said, adding, The People understand what Im saying. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene claimed she was not suicidal as she pushes for more files to be released regarding Jeffrey Epstein. Getty Images The disturbing disclaimer comes in the wake of Greene redoubling her support of the Congressman Thomas Massie-authored House Resolution 581, which would push to release files on Jeffrey Epstein, who killed himself in Brooklyn lockup in 2019. I stand with girls and women who are sexually abused and raped. Period. Every time. At all times, Green wrote in a previous post to X. For me, its not about a pissing contest between political parties or political enemies. The Epstein rape and pedophile network must be exposed, she said, adding that her name will stay on the discharge petition. Greenes name is one of only four Republicans including the author Rep. Massie, Rep. Nancy Mace, and Rep. Lauren Boebert who signed with over 200 Democrats. Pedophile and financier Jeffrey Epstein committed suicide while in Brooklyn lock-up in 2019. Getty Images HR-581 calls on the Department of Justice to publicly disclose all unclassified records, documents, communications, and investigative materials in its possession that relate to Epstein and his madame Ghislaine Maxwell. That bill has 50 co-sponsors, including Green, New York Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, and Californias Rep. Nancy Pelosi. Earlier this month, Republican representatives Greene and Massie held a joint press conference with California Democrat Congressman Ro Khanna where the bipartisan group pleaded with the Trump administration for greater transparency with regards to the deceased, high-powered pedophile. This is the largest press conference that Ive seen since Ive been here and this is because this is an issue that matters so much to Americans. This is an issue that doesnt have political boundaries, Greene said, pleading, This is an issue that should bring us all together. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced in a statement Sunday the release of U.S. citizen Amir Amiry, who had been considered wrongfully detained in Afghanistan. This is the fifth release of an American citizen from detention in Afghanistan this year. Amirys case was not previously known to the public. In his statement, Rubio thanked and credited President Donald Trump for his leadership and commitment, and he also gave credit to Qatar for helping to secure Amiry's release. MORE: A Navy SEALs Afghan interpreter fights for a US visa from Rwanda Today, thanks to President Trumps leadership and commitment to the American people, the United States welcomes home U.S. citizen Amir Amiry who was wrongfully detained in Afghanistan. We express our sincere gratitude to Qatar, whose strong partnership and tireless diplomatic efforts were vital to securing his release, Rubio said in his statement. AP - PHOTO: Afghanistan American Released Rubio said there are still other Americans "unjustly detained" in Afghanistan and Trump "won't rest" until they are returned home. Officials at the State Department have said they hope an executive order signed by Trump earlier this year will deter nations from wrongfully detaining American citizens and that it will help to secure the release of wrongfully detained Americans abroad. The EO enhances efforts to protect U.S. nationals from wrongful detention abroad by authorizing robust responses against foreign governments engaging in such practices. Special envoy for hostage response Adam Boehler traveled to Kabul to personally oversee Amiry's release and to make sure all went according to plan, according to an administration official. The official notes that Amiry was an American citizen and had received a special immigrant visa (SIV), which is a U.S. immigration program for Iraqis and Afghans who worked for the U.S. government or military to become permanent residents. Examples of SIV holders include translators and interpreters. Details of Amirys employment were not provided. The diplomatic talks and negotiations leading to Amiry's release was a joint U.S.-Qatari effort. This was not a prisoner exchange and the U.S. did not give anything to the Taliban in exchange for Amiry's safe return, a U.S. official said. Amiry's release and Boehlers visit to the region comes one week after Trump urged the Taliban to give back control of Bagram Air Base to the United States, threatening bad things would happen to Afghanistan if it does not. MOSCOW -The Kremlin on Sunday dismissed threats by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy that Kremlin officials should know where the bomb shelters were, saying that Ukraine was losing the war and that its negotiating position was worsening. Zelenskiy suggested to Axios that the centres of Russian power, like the Kremlin, were potential targets, saying that Kremlin officials "have to know where the bomb shelters are." "Zelenskiy is trying to demonstrate to the Europeans, who now act as the breadwinners, that he is such a brave soldier," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told state television. "Meanwhile, the state of affairs at the front indicates the opposite. With every passing day, the situation for Ukraine is inexorably deteriorating. And every day Ukraine's negotiating positions are inexorably deteriorating." Russia controls 114,918 square km (44,370 square miles), or about 19% of Ukraine, and has taken 4,729 square km of Ukrainian territory in the past year, according to the pro-Ukrainian DeepState map project. When asked directly by state television's Kremlin correspondent Pavel Zarubin how the Kremlin would perceive an attack on the centre of Russian power, Peskov said that "it's better not to even talk about it." In May 2023, Russia accused Ukraine of trying to attack the Kremlin with drones. President Vladimir Putin was not in the Kremlin at the time of the attack. (Reporting by Reuters; editing by Guy Faulconbridge) Trailblazers Angela Rye and Jotaka Eaddy were also honored at the closing ceremony of the CBCF 54th Annual Legislative Conference IMAGES ATTRIBUTABLE TO GETTY IMAGES WASHINGTON, Sept. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Saturday night, the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF) closed out its 54th Annual Legislative Conference with its Phoenix Awards Dinner, celebrating the work of extraordinary individuals who have made significant contributions to Black communities, culture and the nation. This year's program featured strong remarks from former Vice President Kamala Harris, recipient of the evening's CBCF Board Chair and CBC Body Awards, as well as Maryland Governor Wes Moore. The program was co-hosted by the stars of Prime Video's Cross, Aldis Hodge and Samantha Walkes. Throughout the night, leaders from the CBCF and the Congressional Black Caucus reminded the audience, which included political, business, and cultural leaders, that despite the challenges faced, those gathered were made for this moment. In addition to former Vice President Kamala Harris and Maryland Governor Wes Moore, the audience heard from the Minority Leader of the U.S. House of Representatives, Congressman Hakeem Jeffries (NY-08), the CBCF 54th Annual Legislative Conference Honorary Co-Chairs Senator Angela Alsobrooks of Maryland and Assistant Democratic Leader Joe Neguse (CO-02), Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus Representative Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09) and the CBCF Board Chair, Representative Terri A. Sewell (AL-07). CBCF President and CEO Nicole Austin-Hillery kicked off the night's program, with additional awardees including CBC Chair Awardee Angela Rye and CBCF ALC Honorary Co-Chair Awardee Jotaka Eaddy. The evening took place amidst a constantly shifting political environment, where Black leaders in Washington and cities across the country are battling to protect the diverse and marginalized communities they serve. The energy in the room was palpable and messages were loud and clear: Vice President Kamala Harris: Addressing the sixty-one members of the Congressional Black Caucus, Harris said, "The United States Congress has equal power to the executive branch in our constitutional government. Your work, now, is more important than ever, especially as your colleagues bend the knee and fail to uphold their constitutional duty." She continued, "CBC, what I did not predict was the capitulation. The universities, law firms, media corporations, the titans of industry that have been so quick to kneel before a tyrant." "I'll tell you who refuses to capitulate, the people," she continued to say, "A time such as this demands that the leaders in this room remind the people of their power. A time such as this demands that we win the midterms and enforce checks and balances on this unchecked, incompetent, unhinged President." "Democrats, we have so many stars and many of them are in this room right now. You are the leaders who are up for the fight. You are leaders who have courage. You are the leaders who will speak truth; the leaders who know that at a time such as this, it demands one thing for sure: we must fight fire with fire." Governor Wes Moore: "I'm not interested in talking about how powerful the President is, or how powerful he thinks he is. I'm interested in talking about how powerful we are. I'm interested in talking about how the Congressional Black Caucus was built for this moment, because the Congressional Black Caucus was built in moments like these." "At a time when we are watching the President attempting to gerrymander Black leaders out of office, I want to be very clear - while these other states are determining whether or not they have their maps, so will Maryland." "History is not going to remember this administration well. But also, to those that are sitting down and doing nothing, to those that are capitulating - history will remember you worse." Congressman Hakeem Jeffries: "The Founders of the CBC gave us a charge from the very beginning. At all times, we should be charged with standing up for the safety and well-being of our community and of the country." "Trouble is all around us. We want to move the country forward; they want to turn back the clock. We're fighting hard to bring people together; they are tearing us apart. We fight for the people; they fight for the privileged. We believe in truth and reconciliation; they want to erase our history." Representative Yvette D. Clarke "We have the power to meet this moment. We are not only the largest Congressional Black Caucus ever; we are the largest caucus in Congress. We have the policies to meet this moment. Aided by the CBCF, its research, and the young leaders it is developing, we have concrete measures to advocate for equity and the economic development of Black communities. And we look upon this moment as an opportunity for progress." CBCF President and CEO, Nicole Austin-Hillery "At the CBCF, we have been providing the data the hard facts and evidence that our Representatives and Senators need to combat those who would turn back the hands of time and bring back the handcuffs of the past. I am proud of the way our leaders have been speaking up and speaking out and I pledge to them and to you that the CBCF will continue to support and sustain them in the struggle." All speakers emphasized the importance of united action in the face of national challenges, aligning with this year's conference theme, "Made for This Moment: Power, Policy, & Progress," and setting the stage for continued commitment to a more equitable future. For updates on ALC and CBCF, follow CBCF on Facebook , Instagram , and LinkedIn. For the 2025 CBCF ALC media kit, see HERE . CONTACT [email protected] SOURCE Congressional Black Caucus Foundation Russia unleashed a barrage of drones and missiles on Ukraine overnight into Sunday, killing at least four people, with the capital city of Kyiv suffering the heaviest assault. This is the first major bombardment since an air attack on Kyiv left at least 21 people dead last month. The attack comes as the United Nations General Assembly concluded in New York and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy asked for help from world leaders. "Don't stay silent while Russia keeps dragging this war on," he said. President Trump said that NATO countries should shoot down Russian drones that violate their airspace. Mr. Trump said Zelenskyy was "putting up one hell of a fight." Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov, meanwhile, told leaders on Saturday that while his country doesn't have any plans to attack Europe, any aggression against his country would be met with an "aggressive response." Rep. Mike Turner, an Ohio Republican, said on "Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan" Sunday after leading a congressional delegation to Ukraine that Mr. Trump "really needs to" lift restrictions on Ukraine's ability to use long range weapons to attack Russia. "Ukraine needs to have the ability to use long range weapons to push Russia back," Turner said. "And when they're able to do that, they will get their territory back. If they are able to do that, they will win this war." Kyiv bears the brunt of the attack Tymur Tkachenko, head of the Kyiv City Administration, confirmed Sunday's casualties via Telegram and said 10 others were wounded in the attack that targeted civilian areas across the city. A 12-year-old girl was among the dead. Thick black smoke could be seen rising from a blast near the city center. "The Russians have restarted the child death counter," Tkachenko wrote on Telegram. Russia fired a total of 595 exploding drones and decoys and 48 missiles, Ukraine's air force said Sunday. Of those, air defenses shot down or jammed 566 drones and 45 missiles. Besides Kyiv, Zelenskyy said the bombardment targeted the regions of Zaporizhzhia, Khmelnytskyi, Sumy, Mykolaiv, Chernihiv, and Odesa. Zelenskyy wrote on X that at least 40 people were wounded across the country. Later, Ukraine's Interior Ministry stated the number of the wounded rose to 70, with over a hundred civilian objects damaged. Zaporizhzhia's regional head, Ivan Fedorov, said three children were among the 27 wounded in the region, adding that over two dozen buildings were damaged in the capital that bears the same name. "This vile attack came virtually (at) the close of UN General Assembly week, and this is exactly how Russia declares its true position. Moscow wants to keep fighting and killing, and it deserves the toughest pressure from the world," Zelenskyy wrote. Residents shaken The strikes that began overnight and continued after dawn on Sunday also targeted residential buildings, civilian infrastructure, a medical facility and a kindergarten, according to Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko, who also said damage was reported at more than 20 locations across the capital. At Kyiv's central train station, passengers arrived to the crackle of anti-aircraft gunfire and the low buzz of attack drones. Mostly women, they waited quietly in a platform underpass until the air raid alert ended. Parents checked the news on their phones while children played online games. "The sky has turned black again," said one woman at the station, who gave only her first name, Erika. "It's happening a lot." Ilona Kovalenko, a 38-year-old resident of a five-story building struck in Kyiv's Solomianskyi district, told The Associated Press she woke up because of the explosion, which shattered windows. "A neighbor kept knocking on our door. She was completely covered in blood and shouting, 'help, save my daughter,'" said Kovalenko, who fled the building with her grandmother after the strike. Oleksandra, the neighbor's daughter, was the 12-year-old killed in the attack. "Sadly, she died on the spot," Kovalenko said. "We are in shock, to be honest." Another multi-story residential building was heavily damaged by the attack. Emergency services personnel used power saws to clear the debris. Piles of glass littered nearby sidewalks as building residents, some looking shaken, sat on benches. Russian officials did not immediately comment on the attacks. Polish military responses triggered The assault also triggered military responses in neighboring Poland, where fighter jets were deployed early Sunday morning as Russia struck targets in western Ukraine, according to the Polish armed forces. Polish military officials characterized these defensive measures as "preventative." International concerns have mounted recently that the fighting could spread beyond Ukraine's borders as European countries rebuked Russia for what they said were provocations. The incidents have included Russian drones landing on Polish soil and Russian fighter aircraft entering Estonian airspace. Russia denied its planes entered Estonian airspace and said none of its drones targeted Poland. The latest bombardment follows Zelenskyy's announcement Saturday of what he called a "mega deal" for weapons purchases from the United States. The $90 billion package includes both the major arms agreement and a separate "drone deal" for Ukrainian-made drones that the U.S. will purchase directly. Meanwhile, Russia's Defense Ministry said its air defenses shot down 41 Ukrainian drones overnight into Sunday. Government shutdown likely, CBS News' Robert Costa says after conversation with Trump Why crickets are as good as a thermometer Trump plans to send troops to Portland, Oregon; governor says it is "not needed here" THE RUNDOWN Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco confirmed theyre married and shared the first official photos of their wedding. The couple tied the knot on September 27 in Santa Barbara, California. The pair spoke openly about knowing they found their person in interviews. Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco are marriedand ready for the world to know about it. Hours after they tied the knot today, the couple confirmed the happy news on Instagram. 9.27.25 , Gomez wrote, sharing the first photos from their wedding. Gomez and Blanco announced their engagement in December 2024, one year after they went public with their relationship. Ahead of their wedding in August, Gomez told Jake Shane on Therapuss that she was confident in her decision to marry the music producer. You know, I just have never really felt so sure about something, she said. And I also dont want to jinx it by saying that. In January, Blanco spoke about knowing right away Gomez was the one. You know when you think you met the right person, youre like, Oh my god, he told Interview. But it feels so different. The second we started hanging out, I was like, This is my wife. I was telling my mom, This is the girl Im going to marry. He recalled shifting his mentality before dating her: I remember before I was with her, I was like, You know what? Im going to stop everything Im doing and just focus all my energy on being a grownup and being with the right person. Now I worship the ground she walks on, and I feel like shes the same way to me. Theres no ego between us. Shes praying for me to win and Im praying for her to win. And I wake up in the morningI know she does the same thingand Im like, How can I make her life better? Holding her isnt close enough. I want to be inside of her whole body. I just feel a thing for her that I cant even explain. You Might Also Like In the early morning hours of Sept. 29, 2021, Benjamin Elliott, then 17 years old, walked into his twin sister Meghan's bedroom. It was something he had done hundreds of times. But on this morning, he had a knife in his hand and stabbed her in the neck while she was asleep. He would later say he was sleepwalking. When he realized what he had done, he immediately called 911. "I just killed my sister," Benjamin told the emergency operator. "Oh my God I thought it was a dream." Benjamin's parents Kathy and Michael Elliott faced a heartbreaking and unimaginable reality: their beloved daughter, Meghan, was dead, and her adoring twin brother their son was accused of intentionally murdering her. They could not imagine why, and neither could investigators. Correspondent Erin Moriarty investigates the extraordinary case of "The Boy Who Killed His Twin," for the 38th season premiere of "48 Hours," now streaming on Paramount+. "What makes you so sure that you stabbed your sister while you were sleepwalking?" Moriarty asked Benjamin Elliott in a jailhouse interview earlier this year. "I would never have done that," he replied. "I loved her. She was my best and closest friend." Benjamin's family, relatives and closest friends agreed. "He and Meghan are so close, you could never picture anything bad happening between them," Drue Whittecar, a longtime family friend of the Elliotts, told Moriarty. "And how did she feel about Ben?" Moriarty asked. "She loved him," Whittecar replied. "She looked up to him. You would see her walk up next to him when she would feel uncomfortable and just kinda stand by him." Moriarty also interviewed the prosecutors, Megan Long and Maroun Koutani. "Were you able to find any evidence that there was a problem with these twins?" Moriarty asked. "No," Long replied. "We definitely looked into it and tried." So how could such a seemingly loving relationship between the twins end in an unfathomable tragedy? That's what Benjamin's parents Kathy, a senior manager with the Girl Scouts of America, and Michael, a stay-at-home dad and their eldest daughter, Elizabeth, wanted to know. The Elliotts initially feared that a mental health crisis was the cause. But it turned out that Benjamin, and some close relatives of the Elliotts, had a history of sleepwalking. In fact, a boyhood friend of the Elliott twins told their parents about a slumber party years earlier, when they found Benjamin eating a donut on a couch while he was asleep. Benjamin's defense attorneys, Cary Hart and Wes Rucker, asked Dr. Jerald Simmons, a neurologist and sleep disorder expert, to examine Benjamin. Simmons was initially skeptical. But after interviewing Benjamin, and hearing about his and his family's history of sleepwalking, Simmons conducted two sleep studies on him, with the teenager hooked up to devices that monitored his every movement. Simmons went from skeptic to believer. He determined that Benjamin fell quickly into what is known as slow-wave sleep, or when people can sleepwalk. That's important because on the night Meghan was killed, Benjamin spent hours scrolling the web on his cell phone, except for a 24-minute period when his phone was inactive. Simmons believes that Benjamin was sleepwalking during that period, and unintentionally stabbed Meghan to death. "Do you believe Ben killed his sister without even realizing he was doing it in his sleep?" Moriarty asked Simmons. "Yes," he replied. "Ben definitely killed his sister. He did it, there's no question, he's the one that had the knife and he stabbed her. But he didn't do this voluntarily. There was no motivation." Surprisingly, sleepwalking has proved to be a successful albeit rare criminal defense. For example, a Canadian man, Kenneth Parks, was accused of driving 14 miles to his mother-in-law's home, where he killed her. He claimed he was sleepwalking the entire time and was acquitted. And North Carolina father Joseph Mitchell, accused of strangling one of his children, said he was sleepwalking during the killing. He was also found not guilty. The Elliotts were relieved, and frightened, at finally having an explanation. "It's scary as hell," Kathy Elliott said, adding, "if that can happen to us, then that could happen to anybody with a sleep problem." They hoped Simmons' findings would end the investigation into Benjamin. After all, prosecutors admitted they could find no reason for the fatal stabbing. But prosecutors were still not convinced. They questioned Benjamin's account of that night, his demeanor during an interrogation with a homicide detective and that he said he stabbed his sister once. That was important because the medical examiner determined Meghan had two wounds to her neck and one was four inches deep and severed key arteries, which prosecutors believed should have left blood spatter at the scene. Despite receiving Simmons' findings, prosecutors charged Benjamin with intentionally murdering his twin, and earlier this year, Benjamin stood trial. The Elliotts had lost their daughter. No one knew why. Now, they faced losing their son. Trump plans to send troops to Portland, Oregon; governor says it is "not needed here" Extended interview: Eli Sharabi Jennifer Lopez on "Kiss of the Spider Woman" The White House on September 1, 2025. - Al Drago/Getty Images The top four congressional leaders will meet with President Donald Trump at the White House on Monday, multiple sources told CNN, as Washington works to avoid a looming government shutdown. The eleventh-hour meeting with House Speaker Mike Johnson, Senate Majority Leader John Thune, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer comes as government funding is set to run out on Tuesday night, with both sides remaining dug in on their positions. Trump canceled a meeting earlier this week with Schumer and Jeffries, the Democratic leaders. The president labeled unserious and ridiculous demands from Democrats as cause for scrapping the meeting, which he said would be unproductive. The decision came after Trump spoke to Johnson and Thune by phone, CNN previously reported, and the two Republican leaders argued against making a deal with the Democrats. But on Monday, all top leaders will be included in the meeting. Punchbowl News was first to report on the upcoming meeting. Jeffries and Schumer, both of New York, said in a statement Saturday that As we have repeatedly said, Democrats will meet anywhere, at any time and with anyone to negotiate a bipartisan spending agreement that meets the needs of the American people. Schumer called Thune on Friday to push for a meeting, an aide for the minority leader said. It will be first time Schumer and Trump have spoken since the start of Trumps second term and the first time Jeffries has met with the president in person. Although Republicans control Capitol Hill and the White House, they need at least seven Democrats in the Senate to join them to pass a spending package under the chambers rules. Schumer, however, is demanding any funding bill contain an extension of the enhanced Affordable Care Act premium subsidies, along with several other items, to get his partys support. GOP leaders want an extension of funding for seven weeks, with additional money for security for the legislative, executive and judicial branches. If the impasse is not resolved, the coming government shutdown could be unlike any other in recent memory. While no two shutdowns are the same, Trump and the White House Office of Management and Budget have already signaled that they are willing to use a different playbook urging agencies to downsize workers in programs whose funding has lapsed and which dont align with the presidents priorities. Trump is no stranger to government shutdowns. The most recent one occurred during his first term, starting in late December 2018 and lasting 35 days, the longest on record. This story has been updated with additional information. CNNs Manu Raju and Tami Luhby contributed to this report. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com FILE PHOTO: U.S. President Donald Trump signs an executive order at the White House in Washington, D.C. By Steve Holland and Idrees Ali WASHINGTON (Reuters) -President Donald Trump said on Sunday that he would tell a gathering of U.S. generals and admirals in Quantico, Virginia, that they were cherished leaders who needed to be strong and tough. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth summoned senior U.S. military leaders from around the world for a meeting in Quantico on Tuesday -- a rare gathering of the country's military leadership in one location. "I want to tell the generals that we love them, they're cherished leaders, to be strong, be tough and be smart and be compassionate," Trump told Reuters in an interview. "That's all that is, esprit de corps. It's about time somebody did that," he added. Trump's attendance could overshadow Hegseth, who was expected to discuss the need to adhere to a "warrior ethos" throughout the military and could touch on other areas. The U.S. has troops around the world, including in distant locations like South Korea, Japan and across the Middle East, which are commanded by two-, three- and four-star generals and admirals. In almost every public speech he gives, Hegseth talks about the "warrior ethos" and the need for the U.S. military to have a warrior mentality. Earlier this month, Trump signed an executive order to rename the Department of Defense as the "Department of War," reverting to a title it held until after World War Two when officials sought to emphasize the Pentagon's role in preventing conflict. Hegseth, a former Fox News host, has moved with stunning speed to reshape the department, firing top generals and admirals as he seeks to implement Trump's national security agenda and root out diversity initiatives he calls discriminatory. Officials have told Reuters that the event is expected to take place at the Marine Corps University in Quantico, Virginia. Some of the senior-most officials, who are provided U.S. military aircraft for official travel, are expected to fly into Joint Base Andrews in Maryland. It is unclear why the gathering could not have taken place virtually and will likely cost at least millions of dollars to transport and protect the large gathering. (Reporting by Steven Holland, Idrees Ali in Washington and Brendan O'Brien in Chicago, Editing by Louise Heavens and Franklin Paul) Washington President Trump said Sunday that a government shutdown is likely unless top Democrats back down from their negotiating position. "I just don't know how we are going to solve this issue," Mr. Trump said in a phone interview with CBS News. Mr. Trump also expressed confidence that the American people will side with him if government funding expires in the coming days, and he believes Democrats will pay a political price for not working with him, on his terms, to further cut spending. "They're not interested in fraud, waste and abuse," Mr. Trump said of the Democrats. Mr. Trump will meet Monday with congressional leaders ahead of the Oct. 1 deadline for lawmakers to reach an agreement on a spending bill that would avert a shutdown. A source close to Mr. Trump told CBS News that the president privately welcomes the prospect of a shutdown because it will enable him to wield executive power to slash some government programs and salaries. Last week, the White House's Office of Management and Budget sent a memo to federal agencies telling them to prepare layoff plans if there is a government shutdown. The memo, obtained by CBS News, tells agencies to consider reduction-in-force notices a federal term for layoffs for employees in programs, projects or activities that have discretionary funding that stops on Oct. 1 or that don't have any alternative sources of funding. It also goes further and says that employees should get RIF notices if they're in programs or projects "not consistent with the President's priorities." In the interview Sunday, Mr. Trump cast the Democrats' current demands which in recent weeks have focused on seeking to extend Affordable Care Act insurance subsidies as ill-advised. Instead, Mr. Trump said, if the Democrats want to discuss health care, they should work with him to prevent undocumented migrants from accessing public benefits. "The Democrats, incredibly, want to keep their old policies of open borders and we're not going to have it. We're not going to allow it," Mr. Trump said. Any possible health-care negotiations, Mr. Trump added, must address immigration and border-related matters, otherwise, "It's just not acceptable for us." Democrats have forcefully pushed back against Mr. Trump's characterization of their positions on both government funding and on immigration. And they have repeatedly noted that people who are in the U.S. illegally are not eligible to receive Medicaid coverage. "Donald Trump knows, or at least I think he knows, that current federal law prohibits using taxpayer dollars for undocumented immigrants in connection with their health care. And no one is trying to change or reverse that law," House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries told MSNBC on Saturday. "What we are doing is fighting to protect the healthcare of everyday Americans in the midst of this Republican-caused crisis that is devastating hospitals and nursing homes and community-based health clinics." Mr. Trump is scheduled to meet Monday with Senate Majority Leader John Thune, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, House Speaker Mike Johnson and Jeffries. The meeting comes after the president canceled an initial meeting last week, citing the Democrats' "unserious and ridiculous" demands. Earlier this month, the House approved a GOP-led continuing resolution to keep the government funded until Nov. 21. But Democrats put forward their own proposal that would keep the government funded until Oct. 31, along with implementing other priorities for the party, including their health-care request. In the Senate, where 60 votes are needed to advance most legislation, both the bill passed by the House to fund the government and the Democrats' proposal fell short. The Democrats' proposal included a permanent extension of enhanced tax credits for Americans who purchase health insurance through the Affordable Care Act marketplace, which Democrats have suggested is a red line for their support. The proposal would also roll back cuts to Medicaid in Mr. Trump's "big, beautiful bill" and restore funding for public broadcasters that was rescinded earlier this year. The Senate is returning to Washington on Monday after a weeklong recess, and will have little time to act to avert a shutdown. Echoing Mr. Trump, Thune told NBC's "Meet the Press" that it's "totally up to the Democrats" whether the government shuts down, saying "there is a bill sitting at the desk in the Senate right now" that the House passed that would keep the government open. "This decision, in my judgment at this point in time, is up to a handful of Democrats," Thune said. "We need eight Democrats to pass it through the Senate." Sen. Amy Klobuchar, a Minnesota Democrat, told "Face the Nation" Sunday that "Democrats are united in pushing" on the health-care issue, adding that she's glad the president has decided to meet with leaders in Congress. "This is an opportunity for the country because of one big problem, and that is that the Republicans have created a health care crisis," Klobuchar said. "My constituents, Americans, are standing on a cliff right now with these insurance premium increases that are upon them." After Charlie Kirk assassination, Utah Gov. Cox urges U.S. away from division, violence Government shutdown likely, CBS News' Robert Costa says after conversation with Trump Why crickets are as good as a thermometer WASHINGTON President Donald Trump in an interview with NBC News Sunday, confirmed that he plans to attend an unusual meeting organized by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth that will gather hundreds of senior military officers near Washington on Tuesday. Its really just a very nice meeting talking about how well were doing militarily, talking about being in great shape, talking about a lot of good, positive things. Its just a good message, Trump told NBC News in a phone call. We have some great people coming in and its just an esprit de corps. You know the expression esprit de corps? Thats all its about. Were talking about what were doing, what theyre doing, and how were doing. Hegseth last week summoned hundreds of senior military leaders, who are stationed all over the world, to Washington for a meeting of the Pentagons top brass. The event will be held at Quantico Marine Corps Base in Virginia, about 30 minutes south of Washington. The base will host potentially thousands of military members, including the top brass, their aides and their security. Senior admirals and generals were not informed beforehand about the purpose of the meeting. One official familiar with the plans for the meeting told NBC News last week that the purpose of the meeting is for Hegseth to highlight military accomplishments and to discuss the future of the Defense Department under his leadership. Messages like this are typically communicated to top military brass via memo or secure teleconference. Trump also praised Hegseths plans on Thursday, telling reporters at the White House, I know, I love it, I mean I think its great. Let him be friendly with the generals and admirals from all over the world, he added. You act like this is a bad thing. Isnt it nice that people are coming from all over the world to be with us? Hegseth also recently worked with the president to rebrand the Department of Defense as the Department of War and ordered staffing cuts among high-ranking military officials. The meeting comes ahead of a potential government shutdown next week. The Trump administration last week warned that it could carry out mass layoffs of federal workers who would usually be furloughed, or temporarily relieved from work, if the government shuts down. Congressional Republican and Democratic leaders are currently at an impasse ahead of the Sept. 30 government funding deadline, but Trump plans to meet with top congressional leaders on both sides of the aisle at the White House on Monday. Demonstrators take part in a protest in Tel Aviv last July to demand the immediate release of all hostages held in Gaza since the October 7, 2023 attack on Israel by Hamas. - Ammar Awad/Reuters The Trump administration has proposed a 21-point Gaza peace plan that calls for all hostages held by Hamas to be released within 48 hours of an agreement and sets out a roadmap for Gaza once the war ends, according to a source familiar with the proposal. US President Donald Trump has voiced optimism about resolving the conflict, saying Friday theyre very close to a deal, just days after his envoy said a breakthrough was possible. Meanwhile, Israels assault in the enclave continues, with the military escalating its offensive in recent days and forcing many to flee Gaza City as the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) pushes deeper into the urban area. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday, however, vowed to continue the war until Hamas is destroyed. The plan could be problematic for Netanyahu, given it recognizes aspirations for a Palestinian state - something firmly opposed by key members of his government. The release of the hostages about 20 of whom are thought to be still alive would be in exchange for a phased withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza, according to the source. The plan would deny Hamas any future role in the governance of Gaza, the source said. Instead, it calls for two levels of interim governance in the territory an overarching international body and a Palestinian committee. There is no timeline in the proposal for the international body to pass leadership of Gaza to the Palestinian Authority (PA), which exercises nominal self-rule in parts of the occupied West Bank, and faces heavy restrictions by Israel. The Israeli government has persistently rejected any role for the PA in running Gaza. Displaced Palestinians move southwards on Wednesday, as Israeli forces extend their control over Gaza City. More than 700,000 Palestinians have left the area, according to the Israeli military. - Eyad Baba/AFP/Getty Images The plan does not indicate that the US would support the creation of a Palestinian state, but recognizes it as an aspiration of the Palestinians. The Trump administration has been highly critical of moves by other governments, including the UK, France and Canada, to recognize a Palestinian state. Secretary of State Marco Rubio described it as reckless. However, the US plan could potentially offer a pathway to some form of Palestinian self-rule. Netanyahu reiterated his opposition to a Palestinian state while speaking at the UN General Assembly on Friday, saying that giving the Palestinians a state a mile from Jerusalem is like giving al-Qaeda a state one mile from New York City after September 11. The US blueprint also says there cannot be any forced displacement of Gazas population, according to the source. Earlier this year, Trump talked of the US taking over Gaza and rebuilding it while relocating its entire population of two million. Ever since, the Israeli government has supported the idea of depopulating Gaza of Palestinians, while saying it would not coerce residents to leave. Deal presented to Arab states Trump held a meeting with a number of leaders from Muslim nations, including Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Indonesia, Turkey, and Pakistan on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly on Tuesday, calling it his most important meeting of the day. The US plan was presented to Arab states at the United Nations, US special envoy Steve Witkoff said Wednesday. Were hopeful and, I might say, even confident that in the coming days well be able to announce some sort of breakthrough, Witkoff said. The source familiar with the plan told CNN the plan specifically says that Israel will not attack Qatar again. Israel targeted Hamas leaders in Doha earlier this month with a series of airstrikes just days after Hamas said it was considering a different US proposal. U.S. President Donald Trump and Turkish leader Recep Tayyip Erdogan at a meeting with several Arab and Muslim countries at the UNs General Assembly last week, where post-war governance in Gaza was on the agenda. - Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images Trump has also voiced optimism about resolving the conflict, saying a deal is very close. In a social media post Friday, Trump hailed what he called inspired and productive discussions with Middle Eastern partners to end the war in Gaza. Intense negotiations have been going on for four days and will continue for as long as necessary in order to get a Successfully Completed Agreement, Trump wrote. He added that all of the countries within the region are involved, Hamas is very much aware of these discussions, and Israel has been informed at all levels, including Prime Minister Bibi (Benjamin) Netanyahu. It is unclear if Hamas has been presented with the proposal, which could have undergone revisions in recent days and may still be tweaked. It would likely be relayed through the Qataris to what remains of Hamas negotiating team in Doha. Hamas said on Sunday that it had not received any new proposals for a ceasefire. In a statement, it reiterated readiness to examine any proposals it receives from its mediator brothers in a positive and responsible manner, while upholding the national rights of our people. Netanyahu is due to meet with Trump at the White House on Monday. Trump emphasized the goal of the negotiations is to get the hostages back and establish a PERMANENT AND LONGLASTING PEACE. Netanyahus safety net It remains to be seen how the plan would be received in Israel, where Netanyahus far-right coalition members have threatened to collapse the government if the war comes to an end before Hamas is eradicated. Far-right ministers are pushing for a full takeover of Gaza as well as for extending Israeli sovereignty over much or all of the occupied West Bank. Israeli politicians posted messages on social media about the peace plan as Shabbat ended on Saturday. Far-right Minister of National Security Itamar Ben Gvir came out in opposition, writing in a terse post on X that Netanyahu does not have a mandate to end the war without the complete defeat of Hamas. Ben Gvir and far-right Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich have consistently opposed hostage deals and ceasefire arrangements throughout the war, pressing instead for continued and intensified military pressure and full occupation of the territory. The two have threatened to topple Netanyahus government if the war should end. Minutes after Ben Gvir posted, Netanyahus Foreign Minister Gideon Saar wrote in a post of his own that he trusts the prime minister to represent Israels interests as required in the talks with Trump. After two years of war, Israels clear national interest is to end the war and achieve its objectives, he said. Netanyahus ultra-Orthodox coalition partners also have come out in support of a hostage deal that would end the war. Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid said Saturday that he had told US officials that Netanyahu has a safety net from me for a hostage deal and an end to the war in the event of far-right opposition to a peace plan. There is a majority for this in the Knesset (parliament) and a majority in the country, Lapid wrote on X. Theres no need to be alarmed by the empty threats of Ben Gvir and Smotrich. CNN has reached out to Smotrich for comment. Intensifying strikes For now, the Israeli military campaign in Gaza continues unabated. The IDF says 700,000 people have left Gaza City since being ordered to do so earlier this month. CNN is unable to verify these numbers. Despite a mass exodus of Palestinians, hundreds of thousands of people are still believed to be in Gaza City. Over the weekend, the Israeli military said it is intensifying strikes in Gaza, adding that it is using autonomous explosive-armored vehicles in Gaza City to neutralize explosive devices before troops move in. Hospitals in the enclave reported that at least 96 people were killed in Israeli strikes on Saturday, the vast majority recorded in Gaza City. Residents told CNN of Israels intensifying attacks. An hour ago, the Israeli army detonated five robots in the Al-Sabra area. Every ten minutes one would explode, Abu Yasser al-Khour, from Gaza Citys Al-Sabra neighborhood, said. The situation is extremely, extremely difficult in Tal al-Hawa and Al-Sabra near Al-Khour roundabout. Tanks are stationed there, and the planes and clashes never cease, the gunfire does not stop at all. Zakaria Bakr, 53, from Al-Shati Refugee Camp, west of Gaza City, told CNN the camp is almost empty. All means of life there have disappeared. Entire alleys have been reduced to rubble. Israels military operation involves three divisions that have pushed to extend their control over the territorys largest urban area in what Israel says is in an effort to extinguish Hamas strongholds. Ibrahim Dahman, Dana Karni, Tal Shalev and Max Saltman contributed to this report. For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com Demonstrators block a road during protests against diesel price hikes following fuel subsidy cuts by President Daniel Noboa's government, in Otavalo, Ecuador, Wednesday, Sept. 24, 2025. (AP Photo/Dolores Ochoa) (ASSOCIATED PRESS) QUITO, Ecuador (AP) A violent clash Sunday in Ecuador between law enforcement authorities and Indigenous people protesting the end of a fuel subsidy left one civilian dead and 12 soldiers injured. The military and the national Indigenous organization behind the demonstrations traded blame for the violence that developed in the Andean community north of the capital, Quito. Ecuadors ministries of Defense and Interior did not immediately acknowledge the protesters death. The Regional Foundation for Human Rights Advice in a statement said the male protester died after being shot. The Confederation of Indigenous Nationalities of Ecuador, the largest Indigenous organization in the country, in a separate statement said the 46-year-old man was killed as the result of government repression that left another demonstrator in critical condition. Ecuadors Prosecutors Office in a post on X said it will open an investigation with a team specialized in the unlawful use of force to guarantee the objectivity of the process. The Armed Forces also reported on X that the 12 soldiers were injured while guarding a convoy transporting food to areas of northern Ecuador. The post said the soldiers were ambushed by infiltrated groups but did not elaborate further. The CINE called for the demonstrations after President Daniel Noboa ordered on Sept. 12 the elimination of a state subsidy for diesel fuel, increasing the price from $1.80 per gallon to $2.80 per gallon. Sunday marked the seventh day of protests. A state of emergency and curfew remained in effect in the provinces with the largest Indigenous populations. Noboa has accused the protesters of having links to organized crime and illegal mining groups. Meanwhile, the confederations president, Marlon Vargas, has denounced repression by law enforcement and called on international organizations to remain vigilant. Official figures show that more than 80 people have been arrested in the demonstrations. Thirteen of them face terrorism charges. Courtesy of Netflix Spoilers below. Theres something weird happening in Tall Pines, Vermont. Of course, you could have figured that out just from watching the trailer for the new Netflix drama Wayward, let alone the limited series eight-episode run. Set in 2003, the show follows police officer Alex Dempsey (Mae Martin) and his pregnant wife, Laura (Sarah Gadon), as they move to the idyllic New England town where Laura once attended a corrective academic institution named Tall Pines Academy. The storied school for wayward teenagers is (and was) run by its legendary founder, Evelyn (Toni Collette), whose unorthodox therapeutic methods seem to have coaxed the entire town under her thumb. But as Alex begins to investigate whats really going on at the charismatic leaders Academy, he starts to realize that neither he nor his wife will escape Evelyns orbit unscathed. Meanwhile, teenagers Leila (Alyvia Alyn Lind) and Abbie (Sydney Topliffe) find themselves unexpected (and unwilling) students at Tall Pines, where they plot an escape ahead of Leilas so-called Leap: a treatment milestone in which Evelyn uses psychedelics (drawn from toad venom) to cauterize childrens trauma and emotional pain. The harrowing process involves a baptism-like drug trip in Tall Pines watery basement level. There, Evelyn uses the drugs, the water, and the projection of a door to (somehow) sever students emotional attachment to their parentswho, in Evelyns estimation, are the root cause of all childrens trauma. But destroying this connection between child and caregiver also destroys that childs chance to develop deep bonds with their own children...thus why Alexs wife, Laura, struggles to feel anything for her unborn baby. In the finale episode, Leila and Abbie evade Leilas Leap and successfully escape Tall Pines, while Alex and Laura evade Evelyn to successfully deliver their baby. But these triumphs arent without twistsor significant emotional toll. As Martin told Netflixs Tudum in a post-finale interview, I like the moral ambiguity and gray area of the finale. I hope people feel satisfied that they watched a really messed-up kind of fairy tale. Below, lets break down some of the major remaining questions after that cliffhanger ending. Why does Leila stay behind in Tall Pines? Oh, and did she actually kill her sister? After fleeing the actual Academy with Abbie, Leila ultimately decides to remain in the broader town of Tall Pines. As Lind, who plays Leila, told Tudum, Leila genuinely, deep down, believes that theres community there for her. The character has felt unloved and rudderless for many years of her childhood, and so the love and unity she feels amongst the other Tall Pines students is a significant draw. Leila never really had that love and care [growing up], Lind continued. Even if its in a really messed-up and manipulative way, Leila is feeling those things for the first time. By the end of the episode, Leila is also feeling a lot of guilt...which might further clarify why shed choose to stay within the Academys healing orbit. Having undergone significant portions of Evelyns therapy, Leila has recalled much of her past trauma, including a key moment during which her older sister, Jess, drowned in a pool on Leilas watch. During their sessions together, Evelyn manages to convince Leila that she pushed her sister into the pool, effectively murdering her. But Wayward leaves the truth intentionally ambiguous. Its not ultimately clear how Jess actually died, nor do we learn which of Leilas memories are influenced by Evelyns psychological conditioning. Personally, Lind seems to believe Evelyn is a liar. I was like, Theres no way that [Leila] could be at all redeemable if [she actually killed Jess], the actress told Tudum. I think that it also makes it so much more messed-up that thats what Evelyn is trying to make Leila believe happened. Courtesy of Netflix So, what happens to Evelyn? Does she die? After Evelyn kidnaps Alex during the finale, its one of her own who ultimately betrays her. Rabbit (Tattiawna Jones), a former student and current Tall Pines employee, grows sick of her bosss constant emotional abuse and decides to inject Evelyn with the psychedelic toad-venom Leap drugs rather than Alex. A newly freed Alex then sticks Evelyn with a needle-full of the drugs several more times, prompting Rabbit to shout, Thats too much! Within moments, Evelyn drops into a subconscious fugue state, hallucinating a mirror version of herself and, in her own mouth, a progressing series of green doors. When the doors only lead to more and more endless doors, Evelyn realizes the mental trap in which shes discovered herself, and she breaks down in tears. So, is she dying? Or dead already? Martin initially told Tudum they would let the viewers decide, but in a separate interview with Variety, they confirmed that the school leader is a vegetable. Martin continued, Id be curious to see if she could ever come out of [the coma], but shes definitely a vegetable. As for the symbolism of the doors, the actor-creator added, Hopefully, thats a memorable image that stays with people. Its all about cycles and generations and looking internally. What shes expecting to be on the other side of that door is total freedom and relief and euphoria. Of course, shes just trapped in a sort of purgatorial hell of loneliness when you sever all attachment. Courtesy of Netflix Whats up with that weird topless scene after Laura delivers her baby? Once Alex escapes Evelyns baptism-dungeon, he makes a run for home, where he knows Laura has gone into labor. When his police partner, officer Dwayne Andrews (Brandon Jay McLaren)himself a loyal Evelyn acolyteattempts to stop him, Alex responds by smashing his partners head in with a rock. (Dwaynes death was officially confirmed by Wayward co-showrunner Ryan Scott in an interview with Variety.) Alex makes it back to Laura in the nick of time, and Laura delivers the baby in an inflatable pool. But within moments of the infants arrival, Laura and Alex watch as the Tall Pines graduates surrounding them remove their shirts and bras, going topless so they each can conduct skin-to-skin contact with the newborn. Its everyones, Laura tells Alex of their child. Its the only way to break the pattern. So, uh...what is that all about? Martin confirmed that the scene is intended as both a moment of horror for Alex and a confirmation that Laura is slipping into Evelyns cult-y tendencies. Alex is realizing his life is not going to be the way he imaginedthat hes not going to have that nuclear family, Martin told Tudum. Thats such an important and emotional moment that everybody talks about when your babys born, and youre connecting with it. So to have that taken away, hes horrified. In the separate interview with Variety, Martin also added, I think its such a jarring image and so deeply icky that he instantly knows hes made a huge mistake. Hes so desperate for all those rites of passage of fatherhood and all the moments, but he doesnt get to cut the umbilical cord and things like that. So tragic. Did Laura actually kill her parents? Its unclear. For the first handful of Wayward episodes, the audience believes what Laura herself believes about her long-lost parents: that they either abandoned her at Tall Pines as a child and never returned, or that they disappeared under mysterious circumstances soon after her drop-off. But Alex eventually discovers that, at one point, Lauras parents actually tried to rescue their daughter from Tall Pines. The mystery around their death is only complicated further when we watch Laura take a swim in a pond near her house, where she sees her parents missing vehicle lurking in the waters shadowy depths. By the end of the finale, there seem to be two possibilities for what actually happened to Lauras folks. One is that Evelyn herself killed Lauras parents, either murdering them and hiding the car in the pond or driving them off the road. The other is that Laura killed her parents. This is the version of events that Evelyn wants Alex to believe. As the Academy leader slips into her psychedelic trance in the finale, Evelyn tells Alex that Laura murdered her parents with a rock (not unlike the one Alex used on Dwayne) and that Evelyn helped cover up the crime. In the traumatic aftermath, she then Leaped Laura, forever disconnecting the teenagers emotional bond with her now-deceased parents. Wayward doesnt give us a straightforward answer in the end. And unless theres a second season of the limited series, audiences might never learn what really happened. As Martin told Tudum, I hope that people talk about it after they watch the show and maybe there will be some debate about how honest Evelyn is being. Michael Gibson Does Alex stay in Tall Pines? Why? Ultimately, like Leila, Alex chooses to stay with his wife and babyto stay in Tall Pines. He briefly envisions a fantasy sequence in which he escapes the creepy little town with Abbie, but this alternate future soon evaporates, revealing Alex as he (literally) shuts the door on any chance of escape. Alex stays because he cares more about his fantasy of this nuclear family and heteronormative life than he does about his moral compass, Martin told Tudum. He thinks he can turn things around. But I think its mainly that he just loves Laura. Is Laura a cult leader now? Is she the next Evelyn? Short answer? Yes. Long answer? Its complicated. Over the course of the last few episodes of Wayward, Laura begins to demonstrate many of the same practices and attitudes that she condemns in Evelyn. She accumulates a flock of ardent followers amongst fellow Tall Pines graduates, instructing them to help her build a new future for Tall Pines. Laura is really in danger of going the same route as Evelyn, drunk on power, Martin told Tudum. But, like all cult leaders, Laura truly believes that she would do it differently. That she has empathy and wants the best for this community that she loves so much. Gadon, who plays Laura, added in the same interview: Laura sees the potential of what a place like Tall Pines can really be. And I think shes really trying to save it. But shes so in it that when you zoom out, youre like, Honey, youve lost the plot. In a separate conversation with Variety, Martin said that Lauras newfound leadership is intended as a solution to the trauma Evelyn inflicted upon her graduates. They explained: As Laura realizes whats happened to her and that she has had this abuse enacted on her and been drugged and all of these things, it was important to us that she didnt fall apart or say, Well, what do we do? She has a solution, and its rising to power and taking Evelyn down. Where is Abbie going in the end? Only Abbie escapes Tall Pines...and hopefully for good. Although Leila and Alex choose to remain in the townand the other Academy students are forced to stay within the schools wallsAbbie takes the wheel and drives like hell past the city limits. Topliffe, who plays Abbie, confessed to Tudum that she isnt certain where Abbie is headed. But the actress hopes some real therapy is in the teenagers future. Abbie has so many loose ends still attached to the school, Topliffe told the outlet. Shes smart and might be like, Maybe I should get some help. Courtesy of Netflix Will there be a season 2 of Wayward? That remains to be seen. Martin seems satisfied with a short and finite run for the drama, having told Variety, Hopefully it works as a mini-series. Still, the creator-actor hasnt ruled out a second chapter. They continued, joking, Its also obviously fun to imagine what would happen [next]. But I feel like the FBI would be in there pretty fast. There are so many dead people now. What we dont know is if any of those dead people include Evelyn or Lauras parents! For that reason alone, perhaps well need a trip back to Tall Pines for further digging. 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The then-33-year-old had recently experienced an early miscarriage, according to Australian outlet 9Honey, and assumed the lump which she said was "deep inside" her breast was simply a "hormonal change" from the miscarriage. "That was the only thing that was on my mind," she said of her initial assumption. Basnyat, now 35, ignored the lump, thinking it would go away on its own, but grew concerned when she became pregnant again and realized it had not gotten any smaller. Despite having a family history of breast cancer and having had a benign lump removed from her breast in 2011, Basnyat's primary care doctor had told her at the time not to worry about undergoing regular mammograms. Getty Woman feeling lump in breast (stock image) He said, 'You're so healthy and young, you don't have to do that,' " Basnyat recalled to 9Honey. "So I didn't do any checkups." Increasingly worried about the lump during her pregnancy, Basnyat ultimately got it checked out. "The specialist said, 'Don't worry, you're pregnant. Just for peace of mind, let's do a biopsy, but I think it's nothing,' " Basnyat told 9Honey. Following the biopsy, she was diagnosed with triple-positive aggressive breast cancer that had spread to her lymph nodes. Basnyat's first thought was for the safety of her unborn baby boy. "All I could think was, 'I want this baby. I can't lose this one,' " she said. Basnyat began treatment immediately, starting with surgery to remove the lump, followed by weeks of chemotherapy. She and her husband did some research, looking for stories about other women who were diagnosed with cancer while pregnant and went on to give birth to healthy babies. "We could hardly find any," she recalled. Getty Patients undergoing chemotherapy (stock image) Throughout her treatment, Basnyat said, she continued to seek reassurance from her medical team that her baby would be safe. "I would always say, 'Will this harm my baby? Will I lose the pregnancy? I want this baby. You need to make sure you're going to protect him,' " she told 9Honey. "It was very traumatic, it was very painful, it was very confusing. I don't know how I did it." Just weeks before welcoming her son, Basnyat paused her chemotherapy treatment. Her son was born early and had to spend several weeks in the NICU (neonatal intensive care unit) but Basnyat said having him by her side gave her the strength and determination to continue her grueling cancer treatment. Basnyat ultimately underwent 14 rounds of chemotherapy, 17 rounds of targeted therapy and 15 rounds of radiation. She remains on maintenance treatment, but currently has no evidence of cancer in her body. "I'm not cancer-free yet," she told 9Honey. Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. With the support of the Breast Cancer Network Australia (BCNA), Basnyat has begun to share her story with others and the process has been cathartic. "It was only recently that I realised I need to talk about things, I have to share my feelings," she said. "I still cry, but then it kind of gives me relief, looking back to my story." Read the original article on People President Donald Trump said he was briefed on a "horrendous shooting" that left at least one person dead and nine others injured at a Mormon church in Michigan on Sept. 28. In a Truth Social post, Trump said the Federal Bureau of Investigation immediately responded to the scene in Grand Blanc, a suburb of Flint, Michigan. The FBI will be leading the federal investigation into the shooting and will provide "full support" to state and local officials, according to Trump. "The suspect is dead, but there is still a lot to learn," Trump said in the post. "This appears to be yet another targeted attack on Christians in the United States of America." Scenes in Michigan as police, community respond to Mormon church shooting and fire A silver truck is seen outside of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints as local authorities work to contain a fire on Sunday, Sept. 28, 2025. "The Trump Administration will keep the Public posted, as we always do," he added. "In the meantime, PRAY for the victims, and their families. THIS EPIDEMIC OF VIOLENCE IN OUR COUNTRY MUST END, IMMEDIATELY!" The shooting occurred as hundreds of people were attending Sunday service at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Police said a 40-year-old suspect rammed his vehicle into the church before opening fire. Ten victims with gunshot wounds, including one victim who was pronounced deceased, were transported to local hospitals, according to police. Police also believe the suspect set the church on fire. People gather near the scene of a shooting at a church in Grand Blanc, Michigan, on Sept. 28, 2025. One person was killed and several others injured Sunday after a shooter targeted a Mormon church in the US state of Michigan, where the building was also set on fire, authorities said. The suspect, a 40-year-old man from a nearby town, was shot dead by law enforcement after the attack, police said, without specifying any possible motive. The suspect was shot by responding officers and the fire has since been extinguished, police said. Authorities noted that there is no ongoing threat to the public but the scene remains active as police investigate. We are heartbroken, Grand Blanc Township Supervisor Scott Bennett said at a news conference following the incident. This kind of violence doesn't happen in our community, and we are heartbroken that it came to Grand Blanc Township. And we're going to do everything we can to support the families, the victims and our community getting through this situation. This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Trump calls church shooting in Michigan 'horrendous' Bizarre NASA discoveries that were not allowed to talk about (but we will) Space exploration consistently reveals phenomena that challenge our understanding of the cosmos, from the behavior of distant objects to the composition of alien worlds that defy terrestrial expectations. NASAs missions have uncovered discoveries so unusual that they required scientists to reconsider fundamental assumptions about how celestial bodies form, behave, and interact across the vast emptiness of space. These findings demonstrate that the universe operates according to principles far stranger and more complex than early astronomers could have imagined. The most compelling discoveries often emerge not from grand missions to distant galaxies, but from careful observation of objects within and just beyond our solar system that exhibit behaviors unlike anything previously documented. These phenomena force scientists to develop new theories, refine existing models, and acknowledge the limitations of current understanding while opening new avenues for research and exploration. Each discovery represents years of painstaking analysis, peer review, and scientific debate before reaching public awareness. NASA The case of Oumuamua, the interstellar cigar Oumuamua entered scientific history as the first confirmed interstellar object detected passing through our solar system, discovered by the University of Hawaiis Pan-STARRS1 telescope in October 2017. This unprecedented visitor from another star system immediately captured scientific attention due to its remarkable properties that differed from any known asteroid or comet within our solar system. The objects Hawaiian name, meaning a messenger from afar arriving first, proved prophetic as it opened entirely new categories of astronomical research focused on interstellar objects and their origins. The objects most striking characteristic was its extraordinary elongated shape, measuring up to one-quarter mile long while being approximately ten times longer than it was wide. This cigar-like aspect ratio exceeded that of any previously observed asteroid or comet, with most known solar system objects maintaining ratios no greater than three-to-one. Observations revealed that Oumuamua varied dramatically in brightness by a factor of ten as it rotated every 7.3 hours, indicating its highly unusual geometry and suggesting a complex, convoluted structure unlike typical space rocks. The most puzzling aspect of Oumuamuas behavior was its slight but measurable acceleration as it departed the solar system, a phenomenon that couldnt be explained by gravitational forces alone. This acceleration initially suggested comet-like outgassing, but observations revealed no visible coma or tail typically associated with sublimating ice. Scientists proposed various explanations including outgassing of frozen hydrogen or nitrogen, radiation pressure effects, or internal composition factors, but definitive answers remain elusive. The objects reddish color, similar to outer solar system bodies, and its apparent rocky composition suggested exposure to cosmic radiation over hundreds of millions of years during its interstellar journey. NASA The strange methane lakes of Titan Saturns largest moon, Titan, emerged as one of the most Earth-like worlds in our solar system through discoveries made by NASAs Cassini-Huygens mission, which revealed a complex world with dense atmosphere, weather patterns, and a complete hydrological cycle. Unlike any other known celestial body except Earth, Titan features vast rivers, lakes, and seas that create familiar-looking landscapes when viewed through radar imaging. However, the similarity to Earth ends with the physical geography, as Titans water cycle operates under conditions so extreme that they create entirely different chemistry. The lakes, rivers, and seas covering Titans surface consist not of water, but of liquid methane and ethane existing at temperatures around -290F (-179C). This represents the only known example of stable surface liquids existing elsewhere in the solar system, creating a bizarre mirror-world where familiar processes operate with completely different materials. The Cassini missions radar imaging revealed shorelines, deltas, and seasonal changes in these hydrocarbon bodies that parallel Earths water cycle but involve chemistry impossible under terrestrial conditions. The implications for potential life forms based on hydrocarbon chemistry rather than water have inspired entirely new branches of astrobiology research. Titans environment presents conditions where complex organic molecules could potentially form and interact in ways that might support exotic forms of life adapted to cryogenic liquid methane environments. NASAs upcoming Dragonfly mission will explore these possibilities by deploying a nuclear-powered rotorcraft to study Titans surface chemistry and search for signs of prebiotic processes. The discovery of Titans methane lakes expanded definitions of habitable environments and demonstrated that liquid-based ecosystems might exist under conditions previously thought impossible for life. NASA The singing of Voyager 1 Voyager 1 achieved the unprecedented milestone of becoming humanitys first artificial object to enter interstellar space in August 2012, crossing the heliopause boundary where the solar wind gives way to the interstellar medium. Operating more than 164 astronomical units from Earth, the probe continues transmitting data from instruments that have functioned for over four decades since launch in 1977. The spacecrafts journey beyond the solar system has provided unique insights into the nature of interstellar space and the boundaries of our solar systems influence. Among Voyager 1s most intriguing discoveries in interstellar space has been the detection of a constant, low-frequency plasma wave vibration that scientists have dubbed the hum or singing of interstellar space. This monotone vibration, detected by the spacecrafts plasma wave instrument, represents the background electromagnetic activity of the interstellar medium itself. The signal provides valuable data about the density and properties of interstellar space, revealing information about the cosmic environment that exists between star systems. The persistent nature of this interstellar song surprised scientists who expected the region beyond the heliopause to be relatively quiet compared to the dynamic environment within the solar system. Instead, Voyager 1s measurements revealed that interstellar space maintains constant low-level activity that provides insights into the structure and composition of the galaxys interstellar medium. This ongoing vibration serves as a scientific tool for understanding the density of matter between stars and the electromagnetic properties of deep space, while also representing a poetic reminder that even the emptiest regions of space maintain their own forms of activity and communication. LaserLens/Istockphoto Conclusion These three discoveries demonstrate that scientific exploration consistently reveals phenomena that exceed the boundaries of previous understanding and force researchers to develop new theoretical frameworks for comprehending cosmic processes. From interstellar visitors with unprecedented shapes and behaviors to alien worlds with familiar processes operating under impossible conditions, each finding expands the catalog of known possibilities while raising new questions about the nature of our universe. The significance of these discoveries extends beyond their immediate scientific value to demonstrate how space exploration continuously challenges assumptions and reveals the inadequacy of Earth-based perspectives for understanding cosmic diversity. Far from being secrets or suppressed information, these findings represent NASAs commitment to transparent scientific discovery and the ongoing human quest to understand our place in a universe far stranger and more complex than early astronomers imagined. Check out our other space exploration articles here at MediaFeed to discover more stories about life and science mysteries, and oddities. Related: Like MediaFeeds content? Be sure to follow us. This article was syndicated by MediaFeed.org. In the Noto Peninsula, the Diocese of Nagoya witnessed the joy of the consecration of a new church in Wajima 20 months after a devastating earthquake razed the old one. As a sign of things to come, the new place of worship welcomed some 20 Filipinos who discovered a home amid the tragedy and show of solidarity for this small community. Nagoya (AsiaNews/Agencies) Yesterday was an important day for the Diocese of Nagoya and the Catholic Church in the Noto Peninsula, the Japanese area hit by a devastating earthquake on 1 January 2024 that killed more than 650 people and caused extensive damage throughout Ishikawa Prefecture. On a clear day, Bishop Michael Matsuura Goro had the joy of presiding over the consecration ceremony of the new church in Wajima, the most damaged of the parishes affected by the earthquake. Some 20 months ago, the quake completely razed the local communitys small church, forcing local Catholics to gather for Mass in a hall of the nearby Catholic kindergarten while a new church was rebuilt from scratch. Yesterday was the day of the consecration of the new place of worship, presided over by Bishop Goro with the rite of anointing the altar and the crosses with chrism. The liturgy was livestreamed, not only because of the small size of the church but also as a way to share this celebratory moment with the many Catholics across Japan who generously supported the communities affected by the earthquake. The consecration of the new church in Wajima was an important token of a new beginning, not only because of the new walls built after the rubble was removed. The solidarity shown after the earthquake gave rise to a new outreach for this community, which is very small, like most parishes in Japan. When I became bishop of this diocese ten years ago, the Wajima church community was very small, with just four or five Japanese attending Sunday Mass, writes Bishop Matsuura Goro in his message announcing the inauguration. After the earthquake, however, more than 20 Filipinos, mostly residents of the city of Wajima, began attending. Most of Wajima's parishioners were affected by the disaster and were displaced to temporary shelters, the prelate explained. Donations from across the country to the Diocese of Nagoya, however, made it possible to offer financial aid, and the construction of the new Wajima church has provided significant support to their life and faith. We have received generous donations from churches, religious orders, Catholic schools, institutions, and individuals from across the country," the bishop of Nagoya added. Thanks to your generosity, he writes, we were able to provide right away a one-time contribution to all parishioners and kindergarten staff affected by the disaster in the Noto area, and offer financial support in September 2024 proportionate to the damage to their homes. We have now managed to completely rebuild the Wajima church, and we are truly grateful. We will also look into the reconstruction and overhaul of the Komatsu and Nanao churches (also affected by the quake). Bishop Goro ended his message saying that, The Wajima church was designed to serve as one of the bases for the relief efforts by the Caritas support centre, which will continue to work on behalf of the local disaster victims with the assistance of volunteers. ECCLESIA IN ASIA IS THE ASIANEWS NEWSLETTER DEDICATED TO CHRISTIAN COMMUNITIES IN ASIA. WOULD YOU LIKE TO RECEIVE IT EVERY SUNDAY? TO SUBSCRIBE, CLICK HERE. 28 September 2025 22:00 (UTC+04:00) Akbar Novruz Read more Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogans visit to the United States for the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly is being closely watched as a potential turning point in US-Turkiye relations. Unlike previous Democratic administrations, which largely avoided direct engagement with Ankara, the Trump administrations approach provides Turkiye with an opportunity to negotiate across a wide range of strategic, economic, and security issues. What kind of turning point might the Erdogan-Trump meeting represent in US-Turkiye relations? What could be the key strategic benefits Turkiye might gain from these talks? What possible effects could this meeting have on the Palestinian issue? How might this meeting influence Turkiye's role within NATO or its relations with Russia? Prof. Dr. Irfan Kaya Ulger, political science expert at Kocaeli University, shared insights with Azernews on the four-day visit. On the first day, Erdogan attended a conference sponsored by Saudi Arabia and France focused on resolving the Palestinian issue peacefully and promoting the two-state solution. Erdogan then attended the eightyeth session of the UN General Assembly on Tuesday. He spoke third, after US President Trump and the President of Indonesia. He will attend the climate summit on Wednesday, Ulger explained. The high-level bilateral meeting with Trump on Thursday is expected to be particularly significant. This meeting will strengthen bilateral trade and military relations between Turkiye and the US. Turkiye will also express its views strongly on the issues of Gaza, the establishment of peace in Syria under the new administration, and other regional disputes, Ulger said. Military and defense priorities A central focus of the discussions will be Turkiyes return to the F-35 program, from which it was previously removed due to sanctions. The meeting will also cover the purchase of forty F-16 Block 70 fighter jets. Trump needs to be persuaded to agree on these matters. From a commercial perspective, the purchase of approximately 250300 Boeing passenger jets is underway. Turkiye requires 500 jets, half of which will come from Boeing and the other half from European Airbus. Erdogan also reduced and lifted tariffs on some US agricultural and industrial products at the beginning of his visit, creating a favorable negotiation environment for Thursday, Ulger said. However, the F-35 and F-16 acquisitions will not depend solely on Trumps decision. Congressional approval is necessary. Currently, the Republican Party holds a strong position in Congress. There is a strong possibility that the sale of these F-16 and F-35 jets to Turkiye will be approved before November 5th. If it is delayed beyond this date, the approval process will become more difficult, Ulger noted. The military gains are crucial for Turkiye. The most important things Turkiye can gain from this meeting are weapons in this last industrial area because Turkiye currently faces an air force shortage until domestic aircraft production begins. It will either procure fighter jets from European-based organizations or from the US. There is a strong possibility of both, Ulger said. Political and regional dimensions Beyond military issues, Erdogan is expected to press for US support in Syria. Turkiye is sensitive to the strengthening of the administration in Syria under Ahmed Esar. Erdogan expects US support in this regard. Trump supports it, but the Pentagon and Centcom have obstructed implementation on the ground. This may be resolved in this meeting, Ulger explained. Erdogan has also consistently highlighted the Gaza conflict. Although Israel targeted Hamass negotiating team by attacking Doha, efforts to achieve a ceasefire continue behind the scenes. Erdogan, along with leaders of Muslim countries and in the presence of Trump, discussed the possibility of a ceasefire on Tuesday. Achieving consensus here is crucial for Turkiyes international influence, Ulger said. Turkiye is also pushing for a revival of the two-state solution. The two-state solution is referenced in numerous UN resolutions, such as Security Council resolutions 242 and 338, envisioning Israel returning to its 1967 borders and establishing a Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital. Recognition of the State of Palestine has risen to 178 countries and may increase further. Turkiyes contributions toward ending the conflict and reviving the peace process are extraordinary, he added. NATO and Russia Erdogans visit carries implications for NATO and Turkiyes relations with Russia. Turkiye is the most powerful NATO country after the US in terms of military and land forces. There is growing resistance within NATO against American patronage, and Turkiye has often acted independently to defend its national interests, Ulger said. In Ukraine, Turkiye and Russia have cooperated to limit the conflicts impact, through corridor agreements and prisoner exchanges, although substantive issues remain unresolved. Turkiye did not join Western sanctions, and its trade with Russia has doubled or tripled. While Turkiye and Russia are often in conflict in Syria, the Caucasus, and Central Asia, dialogue remains essential. Erdogan-Putin leadership diplomacy has proven effective in resolving deadlocks, as seen in the Syrian context with Iran also involved, Ulger explained. Looking ahead, Ulger suggests that while the Trump administration may eventually revert to traditional US policies in support of Ukraine, Erdogans diplomacy with Russia could prevent escalation. Progress can be made through bilateral dialogue, and leader-to-leader engagement can limit conflict escalation. NATOs collective and proactive action, combined with Erdogan-Putin dialogue, could play a key role in shaping regional stability, he concluded. 28 September 2025 17:10 (UTC+04:00) Chairman of the Board at AzerGold CJSC Zakir Ibrahimov has met with the Ambassador of Kyrgyzstan to Azerbaijan Maksat Mamytkanov, Azernews reports. During the meeting, Ibrahimov emphasized the shared Turkic cultural ties between the two nations and highlighted that their bilateral relations are founded on friendship, brotherhood, and mutual respect. He provided an overview of AzerGold's diverse operations, recent successes, and future strategic initiatives, pointing out that the company is a prominent state-owned entity in non-oil exports that adheres to rigorous environmental standards. He also mentioned that expanding mining projects across Central Asia aligns with the company's long-term objectives. Ambassador Mamytkanov commended AzerGolds accomplishments and expressed Kyrgyzstan's interest in collaborating with the company on exploring and managing non-ferrous metal deposits. He pointed out Kyrgyzstan's abundant reserves of iron ore and other non-ferrous metals, indicating that joint efforts could be advantageous for both sides. The meeting concluded with discussions on potential investment collaborations and the development of a long-term strategic partnership within the mining industry. 28 September 2025 16:00 (UTC+04:00) Laman Ismayilova Read more An open-air photo exhibition dedicated to Azerbaijan's landmine victims opened on September 27 in the historic center of Nuremberg, Germany, within the old fortress walls, one of the city's busiest tourist areas, Azernews reports. The exhibition was organized within the framework of the project KulMINAtion Point of Danger by the Gilavar Photo Club Public Union, with support from the Agency for State Support to Non-Governmental Organizations of the Republic of Azerbaijan. The project's local partner in Germany was the Baku-Nuremberg Cultural and Educational Center. Rashad Mehdiyev, chairman of the Gilavar Photo Club, noted that holding the exhibition on Remembrance Day, which commemorates the martyrs of the Patriotic War, held symbolic significance: "After World War II, the international tribunal for prosecuting Nazi leaders was held right here, in Nuremberg (19451946). Because this city stands as a symbol of justice in international law, we believe it is a meaningful place to raise our voice. Those who ordered the planting of more than one million landmines in Azerbaijani territories during the 30 years of occupation Armenia's military and political leaders must also be held accountable for their war crimes. That is why we are addressing the world from Nuremberg, on this solemn day." The exhibition featured powerful photo portraits of landmine victims, accompanied by personal messages. One striking image showed Parviz Najafov, a former road worker and landmine survivor, with this message: "I was building roads to bring people together, not to separate them as the mines have done. One blast took my eye and my leg; another scarred those who tried to rescue me. Tell me, how many times can hope explode in the same place?" Another poignant photograph depicted Khazar Babashov, a driver who lost his leg to a mine explosion. His message to viewers read: "Am I to blame? Yes, no, maybe? You tell me. Write your answer on the paper below my photo. I was just a driver trying to bring people safely from one place to another. I stepped just one foot outside the vehicle. Then came the explosion. My life collapsed in that moment. I still question myself: if I hadnt fallen, would this have happened? Maybe your answer will finally silence my tormenting questions." The exhibition attracted considerable interest. Visitors were introduced to the scale of Azerbaijan's landmine problem through photos and statistics. Many were visibly moved by the stories. The exhibition in Nuremberg followed a similar event held a day earlier on September 26 in Karlsplatz Square, Munich. More than 20 photo stories of landmine victims were displayed, each representing not only an individual tragedy but also the broader humanitarian crisis faced by the Azerbaijani people. Visitors could access more information via QR codes linked to each photo. The Gilavar Photo Club plans to continue this exhibition across other European countries, aiming to raise international awareness about the human cost of landmine contamination in Azerbaijan. 28 September 2025 19:43 (UTC+04:00) A free medical-social campaign dedicated to September 27, Remembrance Day was organized for the families of martyrs and war veterans, as well as local residents, at the Gala State Historical-Ethnographic Reserve, Azernews reports. The event was jointly organized by the Icherisheher State Historical-Architectural Reserve Department and the Medical Service Department of the Azerbaijan State Customs Committee. At the official opening ceremony, several officials and medical professionals were present, including Jeyhun Mammadov, head of the Medical Service Department of the State Customs Committee and Honored Doctor of Azerbaijan; Ismayil Afandiyev, Deputy Head of the Department; Bakhtiyar Musayev, Head and Chief Physician of the Central Customs Hospital; and Rufat Mahmud, Chairman of the Board of the Icherisheher Reserve Department, along with doctors and healthcare workers. In his speech, Jeyhun Mammadov, a Major General of the Medical Service, emphasized that the treatment and rehabilitation of war veterans is a constant priority for the President of Azerbaijan. He stated that all relevant government resources are mobilized to this end. He noted that this medical campaign held on the eve of Remembrance Day by the specialized medical team of the Central Customs Hospital in the Gala Reserve aims to protect the health of veterans, their families, the families of martyrs, and local residents. Bakhtiyar Musayev, Chief Physician of the Central Customs Hospital, underlined that such initiatives play a crucial role in the early detection of health issues and in providing preventive screenings. Rufat Mahmud, Chairman of the Board of the Icherisheher Reserve Department, expressed gratitude to the Medical Service Department of the State Customs Committee and the team of doctors for providing high-quality medical services. He emphasized that such campaigns are especially important in safeguarding the health of martyr and veteran families, as well as the local population. As part of the campaign, over 500 medical examinations were conducted for 200 individuals by various specialists from the Central Customs Hospital. The services included cardiology, urology, endocrinology, radiology, neurology, ophthalmology, gynecology, general therapy, pediatrics, and surgical care. Individuals with identified health issues received ultrasound (USM), ECG, echocardiograms (EchoCG), X-rays, and other diagnostic tests. Medical advice and necessary prescriptions were provided. The main goal of the campaign was to raise public awareness about the importance of a healthy lifestyle and the early diagnosis of diseases. Medical Service Department of the State Customs Committee regularly organizes similar free medical-social campaigns in various regions of Azerbaijan. These initiatives not only serve to protect public health but also reflect the state's continued care and attention toward the families of martyrs and war veterans. 28 September 2025 14:00 (UTC+04:00) On September 27, Remembrance Day, the rectors of several Turkish universities visited Victory Park, one of the symbolic sites of the Patriotic War, during their visit to Azerbaijan organized by the State Committee on Work with Diaspora, Azernews reports. The delegation included rectors from Igdr, Kars Kafkas, Artvin Coruh, Agr Ibrahim Cecen, Bolu Izzet Abant Baysal, Erzurum Technical, Van Yuzuncu Yl, and Ardahan universities. Together with the staff of the State Committee on Work with Diaspora, they laid flowers at the memorial stone and paid deep respect to the memory of the martyrs who gave their lives for Azerbaijan's independence and territorial integrity. It is also noted that Azerbaijani diaspora organizations around the world held numerous events in connection with Remembrance Day. In over 20 countries, Azerbaijani Houses created memorial corners and organized commemorative events to inform local communities about the significance of this important date. 28 September 2025 12:30 (UTC+04:00) On September 27, 2020, the Azerbaijani Army launched a counteroffensive operation in response to large-scale provocations by the Armenian armed forces along the front line. This historic Patriotic War culminated in a remarkable victory that ended three decades of occupation. The successful campaign, led by the Victorious Commander-in-Chief Ilham Aliyev, became a proud and unforgettable chapter in Azerbaijan's history. Azernews presents the daily chronology of the 44-day Patriotic War, highlighting each day as a chapter in a heroic saga, including the events of September 28. On the second day of the 2020 Patriotic War, significant developments unfolded both on the battlefield and in the diplomatic sphere. A videoconference took place between UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and the President of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev. During the meeting, President Aliyev provided detailed information about Armenia's military provocations. He stated that on September 27, Armenian armed forces had heavily shelled both Azerbaijani military positions and civilian settlements along the contact line using artillery. As a result, there were casualties among both civilians and military personnel. In response, Azerbaijan launched successful counteroffensive operations, carried out in self-defense. The Azerbaijani Ministry of Defense reported that, by the end of the day, intelligence data confirmed the destruction of three Armenian ammunition depots, numerous military vehicles, and the elimination of more than 550 enemy personnel. Azerbaijani Forces also managed to liberate strategically important heights around the village of Talish, further strengthening their positions on the front. However, Armenia's attacks on civilian areas continued. Artillery shelling by Armenian armed formations targeted the vicinity of the Tartar District Court, killing one civilian and injuring three others. The General Prosecutor's Office also confirmed that a residential building in Tartar, constructed for people with disabilities and internally displaced persons, was struck by enemy shelling. This attack resulted in the death of two civilians and injuries to two others. These incidents highlighted the continuing aggression by Armenia and underscored the human cost of the conflict, as Azerbaijan pressed forward to restore its territorial integrity. 28 September 2025 08:00 (UTC+04:00) The United Nations Security Council on Friday rejected an effort to extend sanctions relief to Iran. The proposal sought to extend the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) for six months, a day prior to the deadline and after western nations claimed the weeks of talks led to no concrete agreement, Azernews reports. The resolution was put forward to the 15-member council by Irans long-standing allies, China and Russia. However, the draft received four votes in favor, nine against and two abstentions. The development came a month after three European countries that signed the agreement France, Germany and the United Kingdom notified the Council about what they described as Irans significant non-performance and violations, thus triggering the so-called snapback mechanism. The development is set to freeze Iranian assets abroad, halt arms deals with Tehran and penalise any development of Iran's ballistic missile programme, among other measures. "We had hoped that European colleagues and the US would think twice, and they would opt for the path of diplomacy and dialogue instead of their clumsy blackmail, which merely results in escalation of the situation in the region," Dmitry Polyanskiy, the deputy Russian ambassador to the UN, said during the meeting. Over the last one month, Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has been meeting with his French, British and German counterparts to strike a last-minute deal. Despite the efforts, the talks did not lead to any conclusion. Iranian officials have defended their position over the last several weeks, saying that they've put forward "multiple proposals to keep the window for diplomacy open". On Friday, Araghchi said in a social media post that "the E3 has failed to reciprocate" efforts, "while the US has doubled down on its dictates". He urged the Security Council to vote in favour of an extension to provide the "time and space for diplomacy," AP reported. The European nations have, however, laid down guidelines for Iran to comply with if they want the sanctions to be pushed further. Those include resumption of direct negotiations with the US over its nuclear program, allowing UN nuclear inspectors access to its nuclear sites, and accounts for the more than 400 kilograms (880 pounds) of highly enriched uranium the UN watchdog says it has. 28 September 2025 09:00 (UTC+04:00) Denmark reported fresh drone sightings above defense sites Friday and Saturday, after a week of chaos in the skies that temporarily shut down major airports, Azernews reports via Politico. The Danish defense ministry confirmed drone activity was detected at Skrydstrup Air Base and the Jutland Dragoon Regiment, but would not confirm local media reports of sightings above the countrys biggest military base near Karup, the Associated Press reported. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen said earlier this week that Europe was engaged in a hybrid war after a wave of drone activity plagued the countrys airspace, with authorities blaming an unnamed professional actor. Danish officials have accepted an offer from Sweden to lend Denmark a military anti-drone capability ahead of an EU leaders meeting in Copenhagen next week, the defense ministry confirmed on X Friday evening. German media reported drone sightings in Schleswig-Holstein, near the Danish border, Friday night, in what authorities suspected to be espionage. 28 September 2025 22:40 (UTC+04:00) The well-known French aerospace manufacturer Dassault Aviation is set to deliver 239 Rafale fighter jets this year. In response to surging international demand, the company is expanding its mass recruitment efforts and internal training programs to address a growing workforce shortage, Azernews reports citing Azertac. Dassault Aviation has recently opened a new production facility in the city of Cergy-Pontoise, covering 110,760 square meters. This is the companys largest production site built since the 1970s. The new plant will be responsible for assembling the front section of the Rafale jet a component particularly valued by international clients. To meet tight delivery schedules, especially for recent contracts signed with India, Indonesia, and the United Arab Emirates, Dassault has already hired 80 new employees in 2025 alone. The companys inclusive hiring practices were highlighted by one new recruit a woman who previously worked in a beauty salon and is now employed as a cable assembler, demonstrating Dassaults openness to non-traditional candidate profiles. Eric Trappier, CEO of Dassault Aviation, stressed the challenges of recruiting in the industrial sector: "Working in industry is still not seen as attractive enough. Thats why we are focusing on recruiting more women. There arent enough. We want to show them that the industrial world can be a place for them too." Currently producing three Rafale jets per month, Dassault aims to increase this number to five per month by 2030. To achieve this, the companys top priority in the coming years will be to simultaneously scale up both human resources and manufacturing capacity. A bill to defund Planned Parenthood and another measure, Irynas Law, show that valuing life means shielding the vulnerable before birth and after a rare pro-life convergence in Raleigh. by Rev. Mark Creech Return America Picture yourself holding a large commemorative coin. On one side is stamped a newborn babys tiny footprint, delicate, vulnerable, and full of promise. On the other side is etched a crowded commuter train men, women, and children on their way to work or school, equally vulnerable to forces they cannot control. Two images, one coin. Both sides represent lives that the government is charged with protecting and preserving. That coin could be the emblem of what happened this week in Raleigh. In an unusual moment, North Carolina lawmakers advanced two significant pieces of legislation within the two days they reconvened bills that seem worlds apart at first glance. House Bill 192 Defund Planned Parenthood and Cost Transparency removes Planned Parenthood from the states Medicaid program and redirects those dollars to other clinics that respect life passed the Seante and was sent to the House. House Bill 307 Irynas Law named after 23-year-old Ukrainian refugee Iryna Zarutska, fatally stabbed on a Charlotte light-rail car in August, tightens bail rules, requires more mental-health evaluations, adds prosecutors in Mecklenburg County, and revamps the states long-stalled death penalty process (More than 100 on death row in North Carolina, and no one has been executed in 20 years) so it can be carried out constitutionally for the worst crimes. HB 307 passed both chambers and has been sent to the Governor. One bill focuses on unborn children; the other addresses murderous, violent offenders and public safety. Yet both flow from a single principle: the sanctity of human life. HB 192 insists that public money should support health care providers who protect, not end, life. HB 307 insists the state must restrain evil and protect innocent commuters, students, and families from preventable violence, especially willful homicide. The case of Philadelphia abortion doctor Kermit Gosnell lays bare how arbitrary our nation has been regarding the practice of abortion. Gosnell was convicted of first-degree murder for killing infants who survived his late-term abortion attempts. Testimony showed that babies who were normal and moving were delivered alive after being disfigured, poisoned, or otherwise harmed in utero acts perfectly legal so long as the child remained inside the womb. But once a babys head or body had passed a few inches and the law recognized him as a person, finishing the same act became homicide. Inside the womb, the act was protected; outside, it was called murder. That legal line is only inches wide, but morally its a canyon. Does anyone honestly believe one of those killings was right and the other wrong? The same moral principle underlies public outrage over Iryna Zarutskas death on Charlottes light-rail system. In both cases, a vulnerable human being was attacked and killed one in a medical setting, one on a commuter train. Both were powerless to stop what was happening. If we believe every human life is sacred, and we should, then geography, whether its a mothers womb or a train car, cannot determine whether the killing is acceptable. The location may change the legal definition, but it cannot change the moral reality that an innocent life has been taken. The late R.C. Sproul, the renowned Reformed theologian, author, and founder of Ligonier Ministries, noted that the chief objection to capital punishment is that human life is so valuable we should never intentionally take it. Others argue that no matter how evil, every human being has the potential for redemption. Still others claim that capital punishment does not deter crime. Yet Sproul rightly observed that the institution of capital punishment was not given as a deterrent but as an act of justice. Its biblical rationale appears very early in Scripture before Moses, before Sinai, before the Ten Commandments, back in the days of Noah, where God declares, Whoever sheds mans blood, by man shall his blood be shed. Thats not a prediction. The structure of the language there is an imperative; it is a command. The reason is given: Because man is made in the image of God. In other words, the Bible says that human life is so sacred, so precious, so holy human life has so much dignity that if, with malice of forethought, you wantonly destroy another human being, you thereby forfeit your own right to life. God doesnt merely permit the execution of murderers; He commands it. Critics label the two bills contradictory one pro-life, the other pro-death. Instead, they agree that every innocent life is sacred and must be defended. A consistent pro-life ethic protects children before birth and shields women and families in public spaces by restraining evil through removing societys most dangerous offenders of life. It also declares via the ultimate penalty that the wanton destruction of human life cannot and will not be tolerated. No person who commits such a heinous act will ever be able to do it again. In a time when politics is often polarized into slogans, these measures, debated together and moving through the legislature alongside each other, offer North Carolina a rare chance to see how different strands of pro-life concern are woven together. They challenge us to think bigger, to recover a full-orbed ethic of life one that shelters the vulnerable, restrains evil, and aligns public policy with the enduring truth that every innocent life must be vigorously protected and preserved. Far left terrorist group ANTIFA has been besieging the ICE facilities in Portland, Oregon for weeks. Low income residents in the area have been complaining to the city government that they cannot sleep due to the noise made by ANTIFA members, but the city will do nothing to help. It has also created a dangerous situation for the residents and for ICE operations. After the Texas leftwing terrorist attack on an ICE facility, ANTIFA and their allies have often been shouting slogans calling for ICE agents to be shot or killed. This has been going on at a number of ICE facilities including Portland. Now, Attorney General Pam Bondi has stepped in, ordering DOJ Joint Anti-Terrorist Task Force squads in to "crush" ANTIFA. That should allow ICE to get back to doing the critical job they are responsible for. https://www.thegatewaypundit.com/2025/09/pam-bondi-deploys-doj-agents-ice-facilities-orders/ https://www.zerohedge.com/political/assets-mobilizing-counter-radical-lefts-campaign-terrorism-against-ice-agents-facilities The ANTIFA terrorists in Portland are so downright bonkers that they have firebombed the tour bus of rapper Ice Cube, apparently thinking it was an ICE deportation bus. https://www.thegatewaypundit.com/2025/09/portland-anarchists-firebomb-rapper-ice-cubes-tour-bus/ Meanwhile, President Trump has acted at the request of DHS Secretary Kristi Noem to authorize Secretary of War Pete Hegseth to send army troops to defend ICE facilities in Portland, and elsewhere, if needed, from attack by ANTIFA. Trump authorized using "Full Force if necessary" against ANTIFA. https://dailycaller.com/2025/09/27/donald-trump-deploys-troops-portland-immigration-customs-enforcement-ice-antifa/ https://redstate.com/sister-toldjah/2025/09/27/trump-drops-the-hammer-on-portland-anti-ice-radicals-in-announcement-on-troop-deployment-n2194460 https://www.breitbart.com/politics/2025/09/27/trump-authorizes-troops-to-protect-portland-ice-facilities-from-antifa/ It is not only Portland. ANTIFA terrorists were spotted unloading combat gear near the ICE facility in Chicago. https://www.thegatewaypundit.com/2025/09/video-antifa-terrorists-dressed-war-gear-seen-unloading/ Meanwhile in California, where Democrats have passed a state law to try to ban ICE agents from wearing masks to protect themselves from doxxing, the United States Attorney for Southern California has called the law unconstitutional and ordered ICE and other federal agents to ignore that law and follow federal law and procedure instead. He further informed the Democrats that any California state officials who tried to obstruct ICE agents by trying to enforce the state law would be prosecuted in federal court for obstruction. https://redstate.com/bobhoge/2025/09/26/us-atty-essayli-throws-down-gauntlet-tells-ca-to-think-twice-before-enforcing-no-masks-for-ice-law-n2194442 Some are beginning to point to organized acts of violence related to illegal immigration and to militant and violent "transgenders" as a pattern that is similar to the simmering violence in Kansas that preceded the War Between the States, also known as the "Civil War." One writer even noted that instead of Bleeding Kansas, we now have Bleeding Transas. ANTIFA is out in force but has now been designated a terrorist organization. Unfortunately, federal law is not as strong on a domestic terrorist organization as a foreign one. Since America's ANTIFA is a branch of the international ANTIFA, hopefully it will be re-designated a foreign terrorist organization. President Trump is now sending troops to defend agaiinst ANTIFA attacks on federal facilities. There are also far left terrorist groups like the Socialist Rifle Association, which says a third of its claimed 10,000 members are "trans" and whose membership cards feature a portrait of Karl Marx, that are purely domestic. These also pose a threat. For an idea of where this may be headed, this article spells it out: https://www.zerohedge.com/news/2025-09-27/prelude-second-civil-war Meanwhile, investigations are underway of far left oligarchs like Soros for financing left wing terrorism. https://amgreatness.com/2025/09/26/doj-prosecutors-to-launch-probes-into-george-soros-organization-for-funding-groups-tied-to-domestic-terrorism/ (As to why the term "Civil War" is not appropriate to the American conflict of 1861-1865, one only has to look at the definition of a civil war, which involves two domestic sides fighting for overall control of the entire territory. During 1861-1865, while the north wanted to control the entire territory, the south was only fighting for its own independence, not control of the north. That made the war a war of independence, not a civil war. Indeed one of the southern names for the war is The Second American Revolution. In a true civil war like the English Civil War, the Russian Civil War, or the Spanish Civil War, both sides want to control the whole country.) Keyboard warrior who harassed NI councillor was previously a bullying debt collector Patrick McCartan was previously ordered by a judge in Dublin to pay 22,500 damages to a woman who was harassed, bullied and intimidated Patrick McCartan Steven Moore Sun 28 Sep 2025 at 20:05 A keyboard warrior who accepted a caution seconds before he was due to contest charges of stalking a local councillor was once a bullying debt collector. It is understood that the girls mother made the shocking discovery after returning to her home in the Heathfield estate and raised the alarm Gardai forensic officers at the scene in the Heathfield estate in the Cappagh area of Finglas, after the bodies of a young girl and a man were found by Gardai in Dublin. Niall Carson/PA Wire Detectives are investigating whether foul play was involved in the death of a young girl in Dublin last night. The childs father was also discovered dead at the property in the Cappagh area shortly before 8pm with an investigation underway into the incident. The Irish Independent understands that the girls mother made the shocking discovery after returning to her home in the Heathfield estate and raised the alarm. Detectives are treating the death of the young girl, who is six years old, as suspicious and are probing whether foul play was involved. However, gardai have said that the results of post-mortem examination will determine the course of their investigation. Investigators are keeping an open mind in relation to the discovery of the two bodies but at this stage do not suspect third-party involvement, with no signs of a break-in at the property. Members of the Garda Technical Bureau could be seen carrying out examinations at the property on Sunday morning, while gardai have also been conducting inquiries in the area. A garda spokesperson said: Gardai are investigating all the circumstances surrounding the discovery of two bodies at a domestic residence in Finglas, Dublin, on Saturday, 27th September 2025. Gardai and emergency services were called to a residence in the Cappagh area shortly before 8:00pm. The bodies of the deceased, an adult male and a female child, remain at the scene. The location has been preserved for forensic examination by the Garda Technical Bureau. The Coroner has been notified and the services of the Office of the State Pathologist have been requested. Post-mortem examinations will be arranged in due course. The results of these examinations will assist Gardai in determining the course of the investigation. No additional information is available at this time. Tanaiste Simon Harris said there is no sign of a peace deal to halt Russias war in Ukraine (PA) Ireland would be eager to assist in a peacekeeping mission in Ukraine if the war with Russia ends, the Tanaiste has said. However, Simon Harris said there is no sign of a peace deal on the horizon, and he urged the EU and the United States to work together to ramp up the pressure on Russian President Vladimir Putin to stop to the fighting. Minister for Defence Mr Harris, who attended a parade of Defence Forces veterans at McKee Barracks in Dublin on Sunday, also warned that Ireland is not immune from potential drone attacks in the future. He was commenting after a week of reported drone sightings around airports and military bases in countries such as Denmark, Germany, Norway and Lithuania. Asked about the potential for Irish troops to be involved in a peacekeeping mission in Ukraine, Mr Harris told the media: Its hard to be talking about peace in Ukraine hours after Vladimir Putin has continued his reign of terror on Ukraine. We saw a very significant amount of missile and drone activity in Ukraine overnight. The rest of the world Ive just come back from the UN (in New York) were all talking about engaging in peace, and how you bring about a lasting, enduring peace. But Putin is showing no interest in peace. I think theres really a question now for both the United States and the European Union as to how we work together to maximise that pressure on Putin to change his course of action. I think further sanctions are the way forward. In terms of peacekeeping, we have a proud track record in this country of peacekeeping. And, of course, if you got to a peace agreement and there was a requirement for peacekeepers, Ireland certainly wouldnt recuse itself from that conversation. Would be very eager to assist. But, like I say, unfortunately, as of today, we have no sign or sight of a peace agreement. Asked about the drone incidents in other European countries during the week, Mr Harris added: I think no country is immune from these sorts of attacks, thats really the point weve been making, I suppose, for quite a period of time. Its really one of the reasons why weve established a commission on the future of the Defence Forces, it is one of the reasons why were significantly increasing our defence force capabilities. We should never fool ourselves or convince ourselves that Ireland is immune from such attack. It isnt. No country in Europe is. We have a war on the continent of Europe for the first time in very many, many years. And were also seeing the type of attacks, the type of warfare, change and evolve with the uses of technologies. I think it is important that in the first instance we invest in that radar capability. I like to think of it as a bit of a kind of burglar alarm type of system that gives us a greater understanding and warning as to whats happening in our skies. Thats why I think its a really sensible, prudent time to invest in radar. The UN has reimposed sanctions on Iran over its nuclear programme (Vahid Salemi/AP) Iran is preparing for a possible confrontation with the West after the United Nations reimposed sanctions over its nuclear programme, even as some pushed for continued negotiations to ease the economic pain squeezing the country. The sanctions imposed before dawn on Sunday again freeze Iranian assets abroad, halt arms deals with Tehran, and penalise any development of Irans ballistic missile programme, among other measures. It came through a mechanism known as snapback included in Irans 2015 nuclear deal with world powers. Irans Parliament briefly denounced the sanctions on Sunday before going into a closed-door session likely to discuss the countrys response, which could include abandoning the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty and rushing for the bomb. There are concerns about a new round of fighting between Iran and Israel, as well as potentially the United States, as missile sites struck during the 12-day war in June now appear to be being rebuilt. Meanwhile, Irans rial currency fell to a new record low of 1.1 million to 1 US dollar, sending food prices even higher and making daily life that much more challenging. Mohsen Rahaei, a 49-year-old Tehran resident, said: The government must negotiate. This is a world of business. One must get along with everyone, with all countries. Irans rial currency already sits at a record low (Vahid Salemi/AP) Iran tried a last-ditch diplomatic push at the UN General Assembly in New York this week, but efforts by its officials, as well as China and Russia, failed to stop the sanctions. Speaking to the Young Journalists Club, which is affiliated with Iranian state television, politician Ismail Kowsari said Parliament would discuss withdrawing from the nuclear treaty. Nonproliferation experts fear such a move could see Iran follow a path first laid down by North Korea, which said it abandoned the treaty before obtaining nuclear weapons. Mr Kowsari however said it would not mean Iran would go for the bomb, and such a move would need the approval of Irans 86-year-old Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Iranian diplomats have long pointed to Supreme Leader Khameneis preachings as a binding fatwa, or religious edict, that Iran will not build an atomic bomb. Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf issued his own warning to those who would honour the UN sanctions as the chamber began meeting on Sunday. We announce that if any country wants to take action against Iran based on these illegal resolutions, it will face serious reciprocal action from Iran, and the three European countries that are the initiators of this illegal action will also face our reaction, Mr Qalibaf said, according to a report by the state-run IRNA news agency. Parliament then entered a closed session, without any formal announcement on what, if anything, was decided. Israels foreign ministry has applauded the sanctions being reimposed, saying: The goal is clear: prevent a nuclear-armed Iran. The price of meat, rice and other staples in Iran have been under pressure due to the low value of the rial (Vahid Salemi/AP) The world must use every tool to achieve this goal. France, Germany and the UK triggered snapback over Iran 30 days ago for further restricting monitoring of its nuclear programme and the deadlock over its negotiations with the US. Iran further withdrew from the International Atomic Energy Agency monitoring after Israels war with the country in June, which also saw the US strike nuclear sites in the Islamic Republic. Meanwhile, the country still maintains a stockpile of uranium enriched up to 60% purity a short, technical step away from weapons-grade levels of 90% that is largely enough to make several atomic bombs. Iran has long insisted its nuclear programme is peaceful, though the West and IAEA say Tehran had an organised weapons programme up until 2003. The three European nations on Sunday said they continuously made every effort to avoid triggering snapback, but Iran has not authorised IAEA inspectors to regain access to Irans nuclear sites, nor has it produced and transmitted to the IAEA a report accounting for its stockpile of high-enriched uranium. The nations also noted Iran enriches uranium at a level that no other peaceful programme does. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio praised the three European nations for an act of decisive global leadership for imposing the sanctions on Iran and said diplomacy is still an option. He added: For that to happen, Iran must accept direct talks. The US presidents participation raises the likelihood of a politicised event in front of a nonpartisan audience of military leaders (Julia Demaree Nikhinson/AP) US president Donald Trump will speak at a hastily called meeting of top military leaders on Tuesday, according to a White House official. Hundreds of generals and admirals senior commanders of the one-star rank or higher and their top advisers have been summoned from all over the world to the Marine Corps base in Quantico, Virginia, with little notice by defence secretary Pete Hegseth. The White House official was not authorised to discuss the presidents plans before a public announcement about his attendance and spoke on condition of anonymity. Mr Trump told NBC News in an interview on Sunday that they would be talking about how well were doing militarily, talking about being in great shape, talking about a lot of good, positive things. The meeting was called with little notice by US defence secretary Pete Hegseth (Julia Demaree Nikhinson/AP) News about the meeting broke on Thursday, and Mr Trump did not seem to know about it when first asked by reporters during an Oval Office appearance. Ill be there if they want me, but why is it such a big deal? Mr Trump said. The official said the presidents participation was not part of the original plan for the meeting but that he decided that he wanted to go. Mr Trumps participation in the meeting raises the likelihood of a politicised event in front of a nonpartisan audience of military leaders. For example, he delivered campaign-style remarks to uniformed personnel at Fort Bragg in North Carolina in June, attacking his Democratic predecessor, Joe Biden. The Republican president is also expanding his use of the military in American cities, arguing that it is necessary to fight crime in places where Democratic leaders are failing to ensure public safety. The National Guard continues to patrol in the District of Columbia, and a smaller deployment is expected in Memphis, Tennessee. On Saturday, Mr Trump said he would also send troops to Portland, Oregon, to protect against domestic terrorists. Over the objections of local and state officials, Mr Trump previously sent the National Guard and active-duty marines to Los Angeles, where there were protests against immigration raids. The Pentagons top spokesman has previously confirmed that Mr Hegseth will be addressing his senior military leaders early next week. Across the military, there are 800 generals and admirals of all ranks. Many command thousands of service members and are stationed across the world in more than a dozen countries and time zones. The Washington Post first reported on Mr Trumps plans to attend the upcoming meeting. When real reporting and analysis are suppressed, we risk abandoning our democracy to fake news and its corrosive effects This image released by Disney shows Jimmy Kimmel hosting his late night show "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" in Los Angeles on Tuesday, Sept. 23, 2025. (Randy Holmes/Disney via AP) Donald Trumps actions ensure that media independence can no longer be taken for granted. Photo: AP. Photo: Evan Vucci/AP Will trusted journalism survive the decade? That question echoed in my mind as I read the harrowing conclusions of a new report by the International News Media Association (INMA), which held its European News Media Conference in Dublin last week. When INMAs chief executive Earl Wilkinson, one of the worlds most renowned experts in this field, used the words journalism and survive in the same breath, it wasnt hyperbole it was a stark warning. What is most striking in INMAs study is not something new, but rather the speed and gravity of the storm enveloping all of us. Print is vanishing. Digital gatekeepers big tech platforms like Google, TikTok and Meta decide not just what news we see, but also what gets buried. Non-democratic actors target news organisations. Truth competes with invented narratives, as social media sometimes inspiring, often poisonous becomes a relentless engine of disinformation. For many years, as an editor of national newspapers in Belgium and the Netherlands, then as publisher and chief executive of Mediahuis Ireland, I have told colleagues, students and industry leaders that these risks are real. But to be honest, I thought they were more or less abstract. I believed that journalism was able to reinvent itself, adapt and hold its place in democratic society. I believed that if we want to survive we only had to work harder, be more trustworthy, become better. We hold everybody else to account, but we are not always accountable enough ourselves Perhaps that is because I am the first to admit that newsrooms are not always as good as they claim to be. Journalists expertise is often too shallow, or our biases too strong, our stories too black and white, our personal opinions too obvious. We hold everybody else to account, but we are not always accountable enough ourselves. We rarely admit when we are wrong. Throughout my career, I have worked hard to improve the quality and transparency of our journalism. I have tried to set the bar higher. During this time, I have overseen the platform shift from print to digital. This coincided with what was maybe an even more important cultural change in our newsrooms, as they became more reader-centric than ever before. I was convinced that by doing all that, I was helping journalism to survive in an era of disinformation. Today, Im no longer sure that this is enough. The INMA report confirms that we are entering a perfect storm. Abstract threats have become immediate dangers, shaking not just journalism but democracy itself. Peter Vandermeersch at Trinity College in Dublin. Photo: David Conachy Recent headlines drive the point home. This month, just before the INMA reports release, Donald Trump filed a $15bn lawsuit against The New York Times, claiming false and disparaging reporting. His case was dismissed by a federal judge, but legal experts argue its purpose was simply to harass journalists, suppress criticism and provoke outrage against the media. In the same week, ABC, owned by Disney, suspended the late-night TV host and comedian Jimmy Kimmel after he condemned the political exploitation of Charlie Kirks death and criticised Trumps reaction to the loss of a close collaborator. The US president praised the suspension of Kimmels show as great news, while others saw it as a warning sign: media independence can no longer be taken for granted. (ABC since reinstated Kimmel). It would be naive to think that threats against the press are limited to the US. Recent reports point to serious violations of press freedom in EU countries such as Greece, Hungary and Romania. Online abuse, including co-ordinated smear campaigns and threats, remains the most common type of attack against media workers throughout Europe, sometimes targeting them both in professional and private contexts. This image released by Disney shows Jimmy Kimmel hosting his late night show "Jimmy Kimmel Live!" in Los Angeles on Tuesday, Sept. 23, 2025. (Randy Holmes/Disney via AP) Northern Ireland remains the most dangerous region for journalists in the UK, with press freedom severely undermined by direct violence, intimidation and ineffective state protection. Just last week, a survey by the Stockholm-based International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance found that freedom of the press had worsened in a quarter of the countries assessed, marking the broadest deterioration since the beginning of the dataset half a century ago. Everywhere, free societies are facing a stark dilemma: when real journalism and critical commentary are suppressed, propaganda and fake news quickly fill the void and democracy weakens. So, what should be done? INMA identified three pillars to protect journalism: 1. Recognise journalism as a democratic cornerstone Journalism is not a luxury: it is a public good. We must reinforce editorial independence and press freedom in law and practice. We need to ramp up media literacy, equipping young and old with the ability to recognise reliable news and to demand it. Constructive journalism must not only bear witness to the worlds problems, but highlight potential solutions too. 2. Compensate journalistic work fairly If journalism is to survive, journalistic content should not be stolen or devalued. Today, large language models scrape millions of press articles to train AI systems, typically without consent or remuneration. This copyright abuse inevitably results in lawsuits. Leading publishers are suing tech giants like Microsoft and Google for unauthorised use of their work. While some licensing deals are under way, many disputes remain unresolved, and potential new regulation will take years before its on the statute books. In the meantime, algorithms siphon readers and revenue away from those who actually do the news-gathering. 3. Enable fair competition in the digital marketplace Google, Meta, TikTok and other online platforms hold huge power over discovery and distribution of news content. Their algorithms can make or break a news outlet. These platforms keep a disproportionate share of digital ad revenue, and stifle competitive innovation, sapping resources from quality journalism. Only regulation that is enforced, transparent and global can ensure platforms do not abuse their power, and independent journalism can thrive. I believe journalism is still one of the most fulfilling professions These pillars that INMA identifies are designed to create a new societal contract between media and tech, where quality journalism can thrive. I believe journalism is still one of the most fulfilling professions. I want to preserve quality journalism and even make it better. I love great newspapers, investigative stories, thought-provoking analysis, impressive photography and opinion pieces from people I completely disagree with. This plea is about much more than journalism: its about what sort of society we want to live in. When journalism is weakened, accountability and public trust suffer, and democracy falters. We cannot let that happen. Tomorrow is World News Day. The message is simple and urgent: every day, journalists investigate, analyse, explain and expose wrongdoing. This is the moment to choose truth. Choose facts. Read, listen, watch. Subscribe. Donate. Register. Choose journalism. Peter Vandermeersch was publisher (2019-2022) and CEO (2022-2025) of Mediahuis Ireland. On October 1, he starts a new role as Mediahuis Fellow, Journalism & Society Sweets Andy Scott promises show to remember at Ulster Hall: Expect the hits... but we mix it up too If you'd like to leave a comment (or a tip or a question) about this story with the editors, please email us We also welcome letters to the editor for publication; you can do that by filling out our letters form and submitting it to the newsroom. PITTSFIELD The Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles believes that returning driver's education classroom instruction to in-person only classes will build better drivers. Jeff Coco, director of Daves Driving School in Pittsfield, thinks the transition will benefit students and allow instructors to bring back activities and exercises that wouldn't work remotely. [With drunk goggles], we can show different levels of impairment, Coco said. We have goggles that will show the effects of drugs, particularly cannabis. This isnt stuff that we were able to do on Zoom. The RMV announced on Sept. 19 that all driver's education classroom instruction will return to an in-person format. Remote classes were offered as an accommodation during the COVID-19 pandemic. Research supports that in-person learning fosters better focus, higher engagement and more effective preparation for safe driving, the agency said. Daves Driving School in Pittsfield, along with Karens School of Driving in Adams, are among driving schools in the Berkshires that will be adjusting to the change, which became effective on Sept. 22. Were excited about it, Coco said. The kids will learn a lot better in an in-person atmosphere ... Its more personal with the in-person classes. A live instructor will be required to teach all classes with a maximum of 30 students per class, the registry said. Located at 210 Elm St., Daves Driving School has been providing driver education and training for over 53 years. Coco said that, although the Zoom format was a challenge in some aspects, some students benefited from taking the class at home. He said that some students had challenges getting to and from the in-person classes after school. A lot of our students are in rural areas, so to offer it in a Zoom atmosphere was better for them, Coco said. Karen Scholz, owner of Karens School of Driving, said it was the right decision and that students learn best in person. The school, located at 7 Park St., in Adams, has been serving Adams and surrounding towns for 19 years. Driver's education is offered at public high schools and by professional driving schools licensed by the RMV in Massachusetts. Classroom instruction focuses on the Massachusetts driver's license, motor vehicle safety, rules of the road and motor vehicle ownership. According to the RMV, students must complete a minimum of 30 hours of classroom instruction and 18 hours of driving instruction with a minimum of 12 hours of behind-the-wheel instruction and six hours of observation in order to obtain a driver's education certificate. Scholz said the return to in-person will allow for more hands-on activities, and bringing that back is one of the important things. She's also excited to bring back speakers into her classroom, including accident victims. Its much more powerful for the accident victims to be present [in the classroom], Scholz said. Its more emotional. Coco said Dave's was allowed to have up to 50 students in Zoom classes. In-person classes will allow up to 30 students, which Coco says creates more interaction between the instructors and the students. Starting Oct. 6, Coco said Dave's will return to its past practice by going into schools around Berkshire County. The school currently runs classes at their main office in Pittsfield, Lee High School, Lenox Memorial High School, Monument Mountain Regional High School, Mount Everett Regional High School, Mount Greylock Regional High School, Wahconah Regional High School and Berkshire School in Sheffield. From a business perspective, Coco said the format change will add more expenses and strain manpower. Instead of having two instructors teaching classes at a time, they will now have four to six instructors going out to high schools to teach. Karens has made changes and is now offering free transportation to Hoosac Valley High School, Berkshire Arts and Technology Charter Public School, McCann Technical School and Drury High School students for any of their after-school in-person classroom sessions. They also offer a shuttle service with an additional add-on fee for students at schools that are further away, Scholz said. Scholz said Karen's offers classes monthly and has students from Hoosac Valley, BART, McCann, Mount Greylock, Wahconah, Drury and Taconic. All classes are held at the school's Adams office, she said. Feeling students engaged in the classroom is what Scholz is most excited about. Its just a different experience overall, she said. You lose that emotional connection when its virtual. Synlait Milk Limited (Synlait) has announced its financial results for the 12 months ended 31 July 2025 and the entry into a binding conditional agreement to sell its North Island assets. Please find the following materials attached: 1. Synlait Full Year 2025 Annual Report 2. Synlait Full Year 2025 Investor Presentation 3. Synlait Full Year 2025 Media Release 4. Synlait Full Year 2025 Shareholder Letter 5. NZX Results Template 6. Synlait Notice of Meeting 7. Synlait Proxy Form 8. Synlait Virtual Meeting Guide Key financials Net profit after tax of $0.8 million (unadjusted ($39.8 million)). EBITDA $107.2 million (unadjusted $50.7 million). Net debt of $250.7 million. New record milk price for the 2024/2025 season of $10.16 per kgMS. Entry into a binding conditional agreement to sell the North Island assets to Abbott for approximately US$178 million (NZ$307 million). Full Year 2026 guidance FY26 presents a valuable reset for Synlait, with the entry into an agreement to sell its North Island assets. The sale will strengthen the companys financial position, with the proceeds used to significantly reduce debt. The targeted completion date for the sale is 1 April 2026. The sale enables Synlait to refocus on its core operations in Canterbury, with a renewed emphasis on operational stability at its Dunsandel facility, which will assist in driving longer-term profitability. Continued growth in the companys Dairyworks business will also support this focus. Given the scale of the strategic reset, the company will not provide further financial guidance for FY26, as it concentrates on executing the North Island sale and building a simpler and more focused Synlait in Canterbury. The Board is committed to making the most of the strategic opportunities ahead and aims to have an updated strategic plan in place by March 2026. Comments from our readers No comments yet Add your comment: Your name: Your email: Not displayed to the public Comment: Comments to Sharechat go through an approval process. Comments which are defamatory, abusive or in some way deemed inappropriate will not be approved. It is allowable to use some form of non-de-plume for your name, however we recommend real email addresses are used. Comments from free email addresses such as Gmail, Yahoo, Hotmail, etc may not be approved. Anti-spam verification: Type the text you see in the image into the field below. You are asked to do this in order to verify that this enquiry is not being performed by an automated process. Related News: Comvita reaches agreement with lending partners December 11th Morning Report December 10th Morning Report CDI APPOINTS JULIAN SMITH AS INDEPENDENT DIRECTOR EROAD director Cameron Kinloch to step down in March 2026 RUA - Pro Rata Rights Offer December 8th Morning Report GEN - Dividend Reinvestment Plan Strike Price Fletcher Building Update on Funding Facilities December 5th Morning Report Photos: Over 600 participate in the Buddy Walk of the Berkshires Over 600 people celebrated the 19th annual Buddy Walk of the Berkshires on Saturday, starting at Craneville Elementary School and walking thro DALTON When he was just 18 months old, George Wallace moved to Berkshire County with his family. Now 18 years old, Wallace is in his senior year of high school at Monument Mountain High School where hes a percussionist in the schools marching band. Hes considering college options with an eye to technical work, possibly backstage in a theater or video production. He also has Down syndrome, the genetic condition related to being born with an extra chromosome. On Saturday, Georges Buddies, a team of 10 family members and friends, walked with him as part of the 2025 Buddy Walk of the Berkshires, organized by Berkshire County Arc. They were one of 40 teams and more than 600 people at the event. Down syndrome is the most common chromosome-related condition in the United States. An estimated 6,000 babies are born with the condition in the U.S. every year, according to the Cleveland Clinic. At the event, people hugged, hung out and supported one another over enjoy lunch, dances and raffles. While the walk raised money for BCArcs programming for families who have a person with Down syndrome, that was not the main focus, organizers said. Instead, it aimed to create visibility and awareness. This is the best day of the year in my opinion, said Christine Ferrari, Down syndrome family group adviser at BCArc. Mother Nature has blessed us with sunshine. And this whole town comes together. Dalton Police were on hand to monitor the walk, as were firefighters bringing up the rear and at Craneville Elementary School, cooking hot dogs for a post-walk lunch. Students from Wahconah Regional High School coordinated parking. Ozzies Steak & Eggs of Hinsdale brought a food truck. Nicole Negri, manager of evaluation and placement services at BCArc, helps people with disabilities find jobs as they finish high school. Were helping hundreds, Negri said. Were in all the high schools in Berkshire County. Were teaching resume writing classes. Were bringing them out into the community and doing informational interviews where they meet with the employees. Negri said BCArc used to offer paid internships but due to a loss of state funding, those are not available now. "So now were going out on our own and recreating our program, she said. State Sen. Paul Mark, who has advocated for people with disabilities at the state level, spoke at the opening ceremony. It becomes more and more important than ever that as a state were there to make sure that were keeping agencies and organizations like this and municipalities and school districts as close to fully funded as we can, he told The Eagle, adding, making sure that community support is encouraged and that were pulling together to weather what might be a three- to five-year storm of unreliable partners at the federal level. Aaron Robb, assistant superintendent of the Central Berkshire Regional School District, read the litany of teams, noting several that have been involved in this event for all 19 years. People cheered and applauded as each team name was read. Big shout out to Charlies Angels," he said. "Another original team, lets hear it for Christines Friends. All the way down from Williamstown, Coles Crew. Team names included Elijah Sole Mates, the Love of Bubba, Haydens Heroes, Helens Hot Shots and The Peach Corps. Gail Robinson of Pittsfield was cheering for every team. Shed been hugging friends since her arrival and danced when a DJ played music. This was George Wallaces 18th Buddy Walk. His mother, Sue Wallace, said she was grateful for BCArc's services. Honestly, without Christine Ferrari, I dont know what we would have done, she said. We moved here when George was 18 months and got in touch with BCArc and theyve led the way for us. Theyve given us support at schools, at IEP (individualized education plan) meetings and just providing the social contact with other families with kids with Down syndrome. Through her journey raising her son, she said she has not felt isolated. Weve had such a strong community around us, weve been very fortunate, and just people around us," she said. "Even today, hes seen so many people that hes known forever in his world. So its really cool. And events like this remind you how cool it is. As George Wallace enters his senior year of high school, hes got a one-on-one aide to help navigate, advocate and assist with curriculum planning. And he looks ahead, BCArc is advising the family on what programs are available in the area and which he might benefit from. Whos the most important person in his life right now? My mom, honestly, he said. Because when I was little, she raised me. , and supported one another while enjoying lunch, dancing, Stay up to date on Berkshires news with Berkshires in Brief, our free daily newsletter SAVOY Savoy will be the first of the nine towns in the Northern Berkshire Vocational Regional School District to vote on whether to finance roof repair and window replacements at McCann Technical High School. The town is holding a special town meeting Wednesday at 6 p.m. at its firehouse. While Adams is contemplating holding a Proposition 2 1/2 debt exclusion to raise the revenue, Savoy is not. Cheshire has heard its first presentation and James Brosnan, superintendent of the Northern Berkshire Vocational Regional School District, will return on Tuesday when Select Board Chair Shawn McGrath is expected to attend. McGrath missed Brosnan's first presentation. Any town can veto the project but towns that take no action will fund the project by default, Brosnan has explained. Brosnan plans to attend the Wednesday special town meeting in Savoy to answer questions. The Massachusetts School Building Authority will pay for 64 percent of the eligible costs of the project: $9,369,988. The district's towns will be responsible for the rest: $7,409,281. With interest on a 15-year loan with 3.75 percent, that total rises to $9,632,065. The town with the heaviest financial burden is North Adams, which will be responsible for a total of $2,663,266. Monroe will have the smallest share, a total of $49,124 over the 15-year loan. Warrant article No. 4 asks Savoy voters if they will approve the $16,770,269 borrowing already authorized by the Northern Berkshire Vocational Regional School District. Based on a formula balancing equalized valuation with population, Savoys total share of the project, including interest, is $183,972. In fiscal year 2028, the town will pay the most: $14,741. In the final year of the loan, fiscal year 2042, the town will pay $9,788. Also at that Savoy special town meeting, residents will vote on the following requests: Chairwoman Shannon O'Brien has returned to the Cannabis Control Commission and the agency is delaying the finalization of its long-awaited rules for social marijuana establishments as a result. The CCC announced Thursday morning that meetings it had on the books for the first half of next week, which were expected to feature the final review of the social consumption regulations and action on employee registration changes, are being pushed back until Oct. 23 and Oct. 24. The delay, the agency said in an update, is intended to "support the transition of leadership and ensure all Commissioners are prepared for the final regulatory review of Social Consumption Establishments, agent registration reform, and related policies." A spokesman for the CCC told the News Service that O'Brien made the decision to delay the meetings. He also pointed the News Service to a tweet from an Equitable Opportunities Now activist lamenting that "social equity businesses are told they need to wait yet again by @MA_Cannabis as they delay a hearing on social consumption regs by a month due to the return of Chair O'Brien." O'Brien was first appointed chair of the CCC in September 2022 and was on the job for a year before Treasurer Deborah Goldberg suspended her, and then fired her in September 2024. O'Brien appealed and a Superior Court judge ruled earlier this month that Goldberg had illegally fired her. The court ordered O'Brien to be reinstated with back pay and said she is entitled to serve the rest of her term, through Aug. 31, 2027. The CCC will hold at least two other public meetings before it gets back to social consumption, an idea that was part of the 2016 ballot law that legalized marijuana here but has not yet become a reality. The agency said an Oct. 1 meeting will feature licensing review and approvals, an overview of the commission's 2025 goals, and working group updates. An Oct. 9 meeting is planned for licensing review and approvals, and policy discussions. The framework for social consumption licenses is just one item on the CCC's to-do list as O'Brien returns from two years away. "I look forward to working with the Chair to continue the Commission's progress to protect patient access, ensure product safety, launch new equity initiatives, upgrade our IT infrastructure, organize around our governance charter, update HR policies, and much more," CCC Executive Director Travis Ahern, who was hired while O'Brien was away from the agency, said last week. "As we undergo another transition in leadership, I'm confident Commissioners and staff will continue working collaboratively together to further our mission and support an effective industry for Massachusetts patients, adult consumers, and licensees." The regulatory structure that CCC commissioners approved in late July calls for three social consumption license types: a "supplemental" license for existing marijuana establishments like retail stores and cultivation facilities that want to offer their customers the ability to consume products purchased on-site, a "hospitality" license category that would allow for on-site consumption at new or existing non-cannabis businesses like yoga studios or theaters, and an "event organizer" license category that would allow for temporary on-site consumption at events like rallies and festivals. For the first five years, the licenses will only be available to applicants who qualify for the CCC's social equity or economic empowerment programs, microbusinesses and craft marijuana cooperatives. Massachusetts would become the 11th state to allow social consumption of cannabis, joining Alaska, California, Colorado, Illinois, Maryland, Michigan, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico and New York. BillOReilly.com is not available in this country. We apologize for any inconvenience. September 28, 2025: The Ukraine war has been underway for three and a half years, creating a violent atmosphere along the border with Ukraine. A growing number of armed Russian soldiers are operating as criminal gangs, stealing what they can and living off plunder. Local Russian police are unable to control this mayhem. In some cases, the police establish an understanding with these groups of armed ex-soldiers to stay out of each others way. Civilians who complain to local government officials are advised to move away from the border area until the violence subsides. The central government in Moscow doesnt want to be bothered with this border violence issue and tells local officials to handle it as best they can. If any of these violent groups attempt to advance farther into Russia, soldiers will be sent to prevent the spread of the violence. Russia believes the situation will worsen as more soldiers desert or are allowed to go home after their tour of duty ends. Most of these marauding soldiers are deserters. Desertion has been increasing, and Russian officers are either unable or unwilling to address it, letting the armed deserters go. Morale among Russian soldiers in Ukraine is about as low as it can get. Officers commanding units at the front do what they can to keep troops in defensive positions. Attacks still occur, but these usually involve units that havent been destabilized by poor morale and leadership. Russia has been hiring more mercenaries and using them for attacks. Initially, it was North Korean soldiers, but now there are mercenary recruits from Central Asian countries bordering Russia, as well as nations like Cuba. The Cubans still depend on Russia for oil and other supplies and have not interfered with Russian efforts to recruit Cuban men to fight in Ukraine. The Russians offer high pay and equally generous death benefits. Cubas economy is in bad shape, with regular power outages throughout the island nation. In response, Russia has increased its aid to Cuba. This has enabled Cuban hotels and resorts to stay in business, catering to a growing number of Russians flying in for vacations to escape the economic chaos back home. Russia is seeking economic and military assistance wherever it can find it. Economic aid is hard to come by, especially since NATO countries are making it more difficult and expensive for Russia to export its oil and natural gas. Despite this, European nations are still spending over $200 billion a year to buy Russian oil and natural gas. The Americans are pressuring their European allies to reduce and eventually end their purchases of Russian oil and natural gas. Thats easier said than done, but its clear that the war in Ukraine will end sooner if European nations can stop buying Russian oil and find alternative sources. Liam Gallagher dedicated Oasis song Stand By Me to his older brother Paul, who is accused of rape, as the band returned to Wembley Stadium for the final UK shows of their reunion tour. Paul Gallagher, 59, denied the charge when he appeared at Harrow Crown Court, which was sitting at Southwark Crown Court, on Friday, He also pleaded not guilty to coercive and controlling behaviour, three counts of sexual assault, three counts of intentional strangulation, two counts of making a threat to kill, and assault occasioning actual bodily harm. Paul Gallagher leaves Southwark Crown Court in London (Jordan Pettitt/PA) The alleged offences took place between 2022 and 2024, according to the charge sheet. Oasis have returned to the UK for two final shows at Wembley as part of their Live 25 tour before they head to Japan and South Korea, Australia and South America. Advertisement The brothers arrived on stage on Saturday hand-in-hand, opening with Hello, from their 1995 album (Whats The Story) Morning Glory?, with Liam holding a maraca. He greeted the rapturous crowd, saying: Have you missed us? before launching into anthems that included Some Might Say, Morning Glory and Roll With It. The hits came thick and fast, but Liam paused at one point to say: I want to dedicate this one to Paul Gallagher, before launching into Stand By Me. Oasis announced their reunion tour in August last year, 16 years after their dramatic split in 2009 which saw Noel quit following a backstage brawl at the Rock en Seine festival in Paris. The band also dedicated hit Live Forever to boxer Ricky Hatton, who died earlier this month at the age of 46. A picture of Hatton was projected onto the screen behind the stage at the end of the track from the bands 1994 album Definitely Maybe, to cheers from the crowd. The band concluded the show with a trio of their best loved songs Dont Look Back In Anger, Wonderwall and Champagne Supernova. Ahead of the final song, Liam appeared to hint the band will be back for more in 2026 when he told fans: Thank you for keeping the faith. See you next year. The group has been tipped for a return to Knebworth, the site of their famous 1996 gigs. Oasis will return to Wembley for the final UK show of their Live 25 tour on Sunday. The Government "needs to lean on" EU Commissioner Michael McGrath to use his influence to dismantle social media recommender systems which "spread hate and misinformation", according to a TD. Mr McGrath is EU Commissioner for Democracy, Justice, the Rule of Law and Consumer Protection. He will be responsible for the forthcoming European Democracy Shield. The legislation is aimed at "safeguarding electoral integrity, strengthening the rule of law, protecting media freedom, supporting civil society, and upholding the EU Charter of Fundamental Rights". Many advocacy groups have said it is an opportunity to remove social media recommender systems. Social media recommender systems are algorithms that use user data to suggest relevant content and people, aiming to "increase engagement and personalize user experiences". However, it is well documented that they give priority to misinformation, hateful and violent content, creating echo chambers. Advertisement In an interview with BreakingNews.ie, Limerick TD Conor Sheehan said: "The forthcoming Democracy Shield legislation is designed to tackle the spread of online misinformation and essentially protect European democracy. "The Government needs to lean on Commissioner McGrath in relation to this. You can really see the European Union can exercise its power in relation to these things when you look at the work that Margrethe Vestager did when she was commissioner. Social media companies need to be forced to disable the recommender system." Mr Sheehan has highlighted the rise in far-right violence targeting immigrant and minority communities, and he said incidents like the Dublin riots and violent protests around Leinster House will only worsen if action is not taken to address the "toxic" recommender systems. He said Meta's removal of rumours about Fianna Fail presidential candidate Jim Gavin was a rarity. X and TikTok are like the Wild West. "Meta I know did remove the Jim Gavin posts, but X and TikTok are like the Wild West. There's a recommender algorithm pushing this hateful content at people because it spikes a reaction. "The fact of the matter is these companies are making billions. We need strong enforcement of the EU Digital Services Act to protect democracy and counter misinformation. "We've seen a number of significant violent incidents all over Europe stemming from far-right protests. We've had them outside Leinster House, I was elected to the Dail last December we've had a ring of steel around the place five or six times just since then. "A lot of that is down to the amplification on social media of this hateful content. You can write to social media companies, you can call on them to do whatever, but the fact is they're making money out of this. I'm very concerned with the rise of AI, that we need to make sure we tackle this because the recommender system that pushes toxic content into people's feeds needs to be disabled." Advertisement "It's really about making sure this Democracy Shield legislation makes sure this recommender system - which amplifies an algorithmic bias in favour of hateful content - that the social media companies are forced to disable this." Conor Sheehan. Photo: Brian Lawless/PA Images Mr Sheehan, who is Labour's spokesperson for housing, local government and heritage, pointed to well known Irish far-right agitators, particularly on X (formerly Twitter), who have amassed hundreds of thousands of followers. "Since Elon Musk took over X, you only need to look at the type of content that gets amplified there and the accounts that get amplified. There are far-right fringe figures all over Europe, and Ireland in particular, with hundreds of thousands of followers. They have this because of the algorithmic bias and the recommender system, there's neither rhyme nor reason otherwise for them to have that sort of following. "We need to see sanctions and the likes of X, Meta or TikTok, when they're found to have broken the rules or manipulated information, then that means the EU needs to take action. "We need to have freedom of speech but at the same time it doesn't include the right for people on platforms to get away with inciting violence. "A number of them on X have anything up to 150,000 followrs. Every time they spread hate, lies and misinformation, it has a huge audience. We are way behind the curve in relation to dealing with this. "You have individuals on social media inciting these things, we've had huge anti-immigrant protests in the last number of years. Advertisement "We have had a number of buildings set on fire... this is getting worse. It's not even that it might in the future, it is already getting worse." 'Two-pronged approach' Mr Sheehan called for a "two-pronged approach". He said the Government should urge Mr McGrath to include recommender systems in the Democracy Shield Legislation, while also calling on the Government to apply pressure to the social media companies with European HQs in Ireland. He also said young people should be taught how to spot online misinformation, and called for additional powers for media regulator Coimisiun na Mean. Ireland 'There's no point condemning threats if we continue using abusive language', Minister says Read more "It needs to be tackled first at European level and the Democracy Shield is the way to do that, but at the same time we need to ensure Government very strongly conveys to the social media companies, who have very favourable taxation rates here... they're not here for the good of their health... they need to be forced to act in relation to this. "What really annoys me is you see really reductive stuff from political parties, for example looking to ban teenagers having smartphones in school. Prohibition is never the solution to these things, it just doesn't work. "Knowledge is power which means we need to see a huge ramping up in terms of digital literacy for young people. Young people need to be taught properly how to identify disinformation, at the same time we need to tackle, as does the European Union, the root cause which is people are having this stuff pushed at them relentlessly. "I have seen people, even from my clinics and canvassing, saying things to me that are blatantly untrue that I know they have gleaned from the internet." A community has been shocked to its core after two bodies were discovered in a house in Co Dublin, according to a local councillor. Gardai discovered the bodies of a young girl and a man in a property in the Heathfield estate in the Cappagh area of Finglas on Saturday. Ballymun-Finglas councillor Conor Reddy sent his condolences to the loved ones of those involved. A gardai forensic officer at the scene in the Heathfield estate in the Cappagh area of Finglas after the bodies of a young girl and a man were found (Niall Carson/PA) He said: Its so tragic for the community. The neighbourhood is shocked to its core. My condolences to the family and loved ones. An investigation is under way into the circumstances surrounding the deaths of the man and the female child. On Sunday, a large gardai presence was seen outside the property within the housing estate, including plain-clothed detectives and forensic officers. One officer was spotted carrying large bolt cutters into the house on Sunday morning, as various bags were removed by forensics. A gardai forensic officer at the scene (Niall Carson/PA) RTE is reporting that gardai believe they are father and daughter. A gardai spokesperson said: The coroner has been notified and the services of the Office of the State Pathologist have been requested. Post-mortem examinations will be arranged in due course. The results of these examinations will assist gardai in determining the course of the investigation. Ireland would be eager to assist in a peacekeeping mission in Ukraine if the war with Russia ends, the Tanaiste has said. However, Simon Harris said there is no sign of a peace deal on the horizon, and he urged the EU and the United States to work together to ramp up the pressure on Russian President Vladimir Putin to stop to the fighting. Minister for Defence Mr Harris, who attended a parade of Defence Forces veterans at McKee Barracks in Dublin on Sunday, also warned that Ireland is not immune from potential drone attacks in the future. He was commenting after a week of reported drone sightings around airports and military bases in countries such as Denmark, Germany, Norway and Lithuania. Asked about the potential for Irish troops to be involved in a peacekeeping mission in Ukraine, Mr Harris told the media: Its hard to be talking about peace in Ukraine hours after Vladimir Putin has continued his reign of terror on Ukraine. Advertisement We saw a very significant amount of missile and drone activity in Ukraine overnight. The rest of the world Ive just come back from the UN (in New York) were all talking about engaging in peace, and how you bring about a lasting, enduring peace. But Putin is showing no interest in peace. I think theres really a question now for both the United States and the European Union as to how we work together to maximise that pressure on Putin to change his course of action. I think further sanctions are the way forward. In terms of peacekeeping, we have a proud track record in this country of peacekeeping. And, of course, if you got to a peace agreement and there was a requirement for peacekeepers, Ireland certainly wouldnt recuse itself from that conversation. Would be very eager to assist. But, like I say, unfortunately, as of today, we have no sign or sight of a peace agreement. Asked about the drone incidents in other European countries during the week, Mr Harris added: I think no country is immune from these sorts of attacks, thats really the point weve been making, I suppose, for quite a period of time. Its really one of the reasons why weve established a commission on the future of the Defence Forces, it is one of the reasons why were significantly increasing our defence force capabilities. We should never fool ourselves or convince ourselves that Ireland is immune from such attack. It isnt. No country in Europe is. Advertisement We have a war on the continent of Europe for the first time in very many, many years. And were also seeing the type of attacks, the type of warfare, change and evolve with the uses of technologies. I think it is important that in the first instance we invest in that radar capability. I like to think of it as a bit of a kind of burglar alarm type of system that gives us a greater understanding and warning as to whats happening in our skies. Thats why I think its a really sensible, prudent time to invest in radar. The Tanaiste has said Ireland is not "immune" to potential drone attacks. It follows unexplained sightings over fellow European countries like Denmark, Germany, Norway, and Lithuania. Speaking to reporters at a parade for Veterans at McKee Barracks in Dublin on Sunday, Simon Harris said: "We should never fool ourselves that Ireland is immune from such an attack." He added that "no country in Europe is". The incidents are part of what some European officials see as a pattern of Russian disruption, although the Kremlin has strongly denied any involvement. Denmark is tonight reporting new drone sightings at a number of military locations. It is the latest unexplained drone activity after several sightings last week, including the skies above five Danish airports. The Danish defence ministry has said it again observed drones at several of its armed forces locations overnight, a day after Nato announced it would enhance its vigilance in the Baltic Sea region. The ministry said in a statement it had several capacities deployed after drone sightings from Saturday into Sunday. It did not offer any further details about the specifics of the deployment, the number of drones, or locations. It is the latest unexplained drone activity after several sightings last week, including over five Danish airports, raising concerns about security in northern Europe amid suspected growing Russian aggression. Following a Nato meeting in Riga, Latvia, on Saturday, Colonel Martin ODonnell, the Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe spokesman, announced: We will conduct even more enhanced vigilance with new multi-domain assets in the Baltic Sea region, which includes Denmark, under Baltic Sentry. We cannot accept that foreign drones create uncertainty and disturbances in society, as we have experienced recently. At the same time, Denmark will host EU leaders in the coming week, where we will have extra focus on security Danish transportation minister Thomas Danielsen He said Nato leaders had been in constant contact with Danish leaders about the recent drone incidents, and the assets would include multiple intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance platforms and at least one air defence frigate. As Denmark gears up for the upcoming European Union summit in Copenhagen, the Danish transportation ministry said on Sunday that all civilian drone-flying in Danish airspace will be prohibited from Monday to Friday to remove the risk that enemy drones can be confused with legal drones and vice versa. Advertisement We cannot accept that foreign drones create uncertainty and disturbances in society, as we have experienced recently. At the same time, Denmark will host EU leaders in the coming week, where we will have extra focus on security, Danish transportation minister Thomas Danielsen said in a statement. A violation of the prohibition can result in a fine or imprisonment for up to two years, according to the statement. The prohibition does not apply to military drone flights, drones used by state aviation, including police and emergency drone operations, as well as municipal and regional emergency and health-related drone operations. (German air defence frigate, FSG Hamburg) will contribute to strengthening Denmarks surveillance of the airspace in connection with the upcoming EU summit in Copenhagen Danish defence ministry On Sunday afternoon, the Danish defence ministry announced that the German air defence frigate, FSG Hamburg, had arrived in Copenhagen. Here, the ship will contribute to strengthening Denmarks surveillance of the airspace in connection with the upcoming EU summit in Copenhagen, the ministry said in a statement. The German frigate is part of Natos Baltic Sentry activity, which is intended to strengthen the agencys presence along the alliances eastern flank. Advertisement Separately, Germany said that following a request from Denmark, its armed forces would provide military support for the upcoming European Union summit later this week in Copenhagen through counter-small unmanned aircraft systems capabilities, also known as C-UAS, which are detection systems that use radar, optical and acoustics technologies. Sweden had already announced earlier that it would lend Denmark a military anti-drone capability, without giving further details. Tensions have been running high in Denmark in recent days following reports of drone activity, and hundreds of possible sightings reported by concerned citizens that could not officially be confirmed. Nonetheless, the public has been asked to report all suspicious activity to the police. I think people will very much regret if they commit the most flagrant violation of our territorial integrity and territorial sovereignty... (including)attempts to shoot down... any object in general over our territory, in our airspace Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov Danish minister of justice Peter Hummelgaard said last Thursday that the goal of the flyovers is to sow fear and division, adding the country will seek additional ways to neutralise drones, including proposing legislation to allow infrastructure owners to shoot them down. While it is not clear who is behind the drone activity, Denmarks prime minister and Natos secretary-general said last week that Russian involvement could not be ruled out. Russias Embassy in Denmark last week rejected claims of Moscows involvement in the incidents. Speaking to Russian media in comments released on Sunday, Belarusian president Alexander Lukashenko said that any attempt by Nato to shoot down Russian or Belarusian aircraft would be met with an immediate response. Let them try, let them shoot. Or theyll shoot down something Russian over Kaliningrad. Then, of course, well have to fight, as they say in Russia, with all weve got. Is that necessary? No, he said, asking whether Nato would shoot down his helicopter when flying close to the Polish border. The release of Mr Lukashenkos comments came after Russian foreign minister Sergei Lavrov told the UN General Assembly on Saturday that his nation did not intend to attack Europe, but would mount a decisive response to any aggression. I think people will very much regret if they commit the most flagrant violation of our territorial integrity and territorial sovereignty, Mr Lavrov said, including attempts to shoot down any object in general over our territory, in our airspace. Claims Britain's Prince Harry was surprised his recent meeting with King Charles was distinctly formal are categorically false and may be the result of people intent on sabotaging a reconciliation, his spokesman has suggested. He reunited with Charles on September 10th, for the first time in 19 months. A report in The Sun on Saturday suggested their private tea at Clarence House had been distinctly formal and left Harry, who stepped down as a senior working royal in 2020, joking he felt more like an official visitor than a family member. Charles and Harry (Steve Parsons/PA) He handed his father a framed picture of his children, Archie, six, and Lilibet, four, it was reported. A spokesman for Prince Harry said: Recent reporting of the dukes view of the tone of the meeting is categorically false. The quotes attributed to him are pure invention fed, one can only assume, by sources intent on sabotaging any reconciliation between father and son. Advertisement Presumably, those same sources have also chosen to disclose that gifts were exchanged. While we would have preferred such details to remain private, for the sake of clarity we can confirm that a framed photograph was handed over, however, the image did not contain the duke and duchess. Harry has previously expressed his hopes of reconciliation with his family amid his belief they may never forgive him after his public accusations. In a move being viewed as a significant but tentative step towards repairing their troubled relationship, Harry joined Charles for a private tea earlier this month, spending 54 minutes with his father at Clarence House after not seeing him face to face for 19 months. Harry last saw Charles in February 2024 when he made a transatlantic dash from his Californian home to the UK to see Charles following his cancer diagnosis. Brothers William and Harry (Yui Mok/PA) He levelled a barrage of accusations at Charles, his stepmother Queen Camilla, brother Prince William and sister-in-law Kate Middleton in his Oprah Winfrey interview, Netflix documentary, interviews and his autobiography Spare since moving to the US. Harry remains estranged from William. The once close brothers long-standing rift shows no sign of healing, with the two not meeting during Harrys four-day UK stay this month which included charity engagements and catching up with old friends and colleagues. The Sun said Harry had been contacted and later confirmed aspects of its reporting. A spokesman for The Sun said: In his statement, Prince Harry confirms the exchange of gifts, including a family photograph. The office of the Duke of Sussex was given full right of reply yesterday in advance of publication and opted not to give a response to The Suns carefully sourced account of the meeting. Iran is preparing for a possible confrontation with the West after the United Nations reimposed sanctions over its nuclear programme, even as some pushed for continued negotiations to ease the economic pain squeezing the country. The sanctions imposed before dawn on Sunday again freeze Iranian assets abroad, halt arms deals with Tehran, and penalise any development of Irans ballistic missile programme, among other measures. It came through a mechanism known as snapback included in Irans 2015 nuclear deal with world powers. Irans Parliament briefly denounced the sanctions on Sunday before going into a closed-door session likely to discuss the countrys response, which could include abandoning the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty and rushing for the bomb. There are concerns about a new round of fighting between Iran and Israel, as well as potentially the United States, as missile sites struck during the 12-day war in June now appear to be being rebuilt. Advertisement Meanwhile, Irans rial currency fell to a new record low of 1.1 million to 1 US dollar, sending food prices even higher and making daily life that much more challenging. Mohsen Rahaei, a 49-year-old Tehran resident, said: The government must negotiate. This is a world of business. One must get along with everyone, with all countries. Irans rial currency already sits at a record low (Vahid Salemi/AP) Iran tried a last-ditch diplomatic push at the UN General Assembly in New York this week, but efforts by its officials, as well as China and Russia, failed to stop the sanctions. Speaking to the Young Journalists Club, which is affiliated with Iranian state television, politician Ismail Kowsari said Parliament would discuss withdrawing from the nuclear treaty. Nonproliferation experts fear such a move could see Iran follow a path first laid down by North Korea, which said it abandoned the treaty before obtaining nuclear weapons. Mr Kowsari however said it would not mean Iran would go for the bomb, and such a move would need the approval of Irans 86-year-old Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Iranian diplomats have long pointed to Supreme Leader Khameneis preachings as a binding fatwa, or religious edict, that Iran will not build an atomic bomb. Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf issued his own warning to those who would honour the UN sanctions as the chamber began meeting on Sunday. We announce that if any country wants to take action against Iran based on these illegal resolutions, it will face serious reciprocal action from Iran, and the three European countries that are the initiators of this illegal action will also face our reaction, Mr Qalibaf said, according to a report by the state-run IRNA news agency. Advertisement Parliament then entered a closed session, without any formal announcement on what, if anything, was decided. Israels foreign ministry has applauded the sanctions being reimposed, saying: The goal is clear: prevent a nuclear-armed Iran. The price of meat, rice and other staples in Iran have been under pressure due to the low value of the rial (Vahid Salemi/AP) The world must use every tool to achieve this goal. France, Germany and the UK triggered snapback over Iran 30 days ago for further restricting monitoring of its nuclear programme and the deadlock over its negotiations with the US. Iran further withdrew from the International Atomic Energy Agency monitoring after Israels war with the country in June, which also saw the US strike nuclear sites in the Islamic Republic. Meanwhile, the country still maintains a stockpile of uranium enriched up to 60% purity a short, technical step away from weapons-grade levels of 90% that is largely enough to make several atomic bombs. Iran has long insisted its nuclear programme is peaceful, though the West and IAEA say Tehran had an organised weapons programme up until 2003. The three European nations on Sunday said they continuously made every effort to avoid triggering snapback, but Iran has not authorised IAEA inspectors to regain access to Irans nuclear sites, nor has it produced and transmitted to the IAEA a report accounting for its stockpile of high-enriched uranium. The nations also noted Iran enriches uranium at a level that no other peaceful programme does. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio praised the three European nations for an act of decisive global leadership for imposing the sanctions on Iran and said diplomacy is still an option. He added: For that to happen, Iran must accept direct talks. More than 66,000 Palestinians have been killed in the Israel-Hamas war, Gazas Health Ministry has said. The ministry said in its daily report on Sunday that the death toll has now climbed to 66,005, with a further 168,162 injured since Hamass October 7, 2023 attack which sparked the war. Among the dead were 79 who were brought to hospitals in the past 24 hours, it added. Israels military is continuing its operation in Gaza as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is in Washington and is set to meet US President Donald Trump on Monday. Israels offensive has destroyed vast areas of Gaza, displaced around 90% of the population and caused a catastrophic humanitarian crisis, with experts saying Gaza City is experiencing famine. The health ministry, part of the Hamas-run administration, does not differentiate between civilians and militants in its toll, but has said women and children make up around half the dead. Its figures are seen as a reliable estimate by the UN and many independent experts. Sir Keir Starmer has accused Reform UK of promoting a racist policy on immigration. Nigel Farages party has pledged to scrap settled status for all non-EU migrants, requiring those who have been granted indefinite leave to remain to re-apply under much stricter rules. The UK prime minister said the policy needs to be called out for what it is, as he spoke to the BBCs Sunday With Laura Kuenssberg programme. This comes after the UK home secretary said she wants to tighten rules around claiming indefinite leave to remain and make sure that people are making a contribution to their wider community and wider society. Indefinite leave to remain is the status which grants legal migrants the ability to settle in the UK without the need to renew a visa every few years. I do think that it is a racist policy. I do think it is immoral. It needs to be called out for what it is Sir Keir Starmer, on Reform's proposals Mr Starmer said: It is one thing to say were going to remove illegal migrants, people who have no right to be here. Im up for that. It is a completely different thing to say we are going to reach in to people who are lawfully here and start removing them. They are our neighbours. Advertisement Asked directly about Reform UKs policy, he said: I do think that it is a racist policy. I do think it is immoral. It needs to be called out for what it is. Pressed on whether Reform is trying to appeal to racists, Mr Starmer said: No, I think there are plenty of people who either vote Reform or are thinking of voting Reform who are frustrated. They had 14 years of failure under the Conservatives, they want us to change things. They may have voted Labour a year ago, and they want the change to come more quickly. I actually do understand that. UK prime minister Sir Keir Starmer said he understands the frustrations of voters who want change to happen more quickly (Danny Lawson/PA) Speaking to The Sun On Sunday, Ms Mahmood said ministers are looking at how to make sure indefinite leave to remain is linked not just to the job you are doing, but also the wider contribution you are making to our communities. She said: We need legal migration, it is a good thing. We are a country that has always welcomed people who want to come and work here. But I think in addition to living and working here there is a bigger thing to do as well which is to make sure that people are making a contribution to their wider community and wider society. Advertisement Mr Starmer also pledged to put an end to taxpayer-funded taxis for asylum seekers travelling to doctors appointments as soon as we can. Additionally, the UK prime minister said he hopes to bring forward the 2029 deadline set by the Government to close all asylum hotels. Im looking at alternative accommodation and doing everything we can to bring that forward, he said. Zia Yusuf, Reform UKs head of policy, said: Labours message to the country is clear: pay hundreds of billions for foreign nationals to live off the state forever, or Labour will call you racist. Reforms plan will ensure only British people can access welfare and that migrants contribute to society. September 28, 2025: Recently, the Russian Northern Fleet received another Borei-A class SSBN, making eight of these nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines in service. The Russian Navy is more than halfway through its SSBN upgrade and refurbishment program. Currently, Russia has fifteen SSBNs in service, eight of which are Borei class, with six more planned. Russia still operates seven Cold War-era Delta class SSBNs, with several undergoing refurbishment to extend their service life. Russia has planned a major naval expansion since the 1990s, aiming to replace all remaining Cold War-era ships and add new ships and submarines. This plan faced disruptions due to financial difficulties, less efficient shipyards compared to the Soviet era, a shortage of skilled workers, and disagreements over which new ships to prioritize. There was consensus that submarines, particularly ballistic missile-carrying SSBNs, should take precedence. SSBNs are a critical component of Russias nuclear missile arsenal, valued more than land-based silo missiles because they are harder to detect and attack at sea. SSN nuclear attack submarines were also prioritized, some to escort and protect SSBNs, others to carry cruise or anti-ship missiles. This focus on submarines delayed the production of new surface warships. Since the late 1990s, Russia has struggled to replace Cold War-era warships, most of which have reached the end of their useful lives. Many, though listed as in service, rarely leave port. Russian admirals recognize that without replacements, the navy risks significant decline by 2030. Refurbishing or upgrading older ships is costlier than building new ones, especially since post-1991 financial constraints limited repairs and upgrades during the 1990s. While surface ships received minimal upgrades, submarines were prioritized for new construction, even in the 1990s, though progress slowed in the 2010s. Financial constraints have limited replacements for the Delta class SSBNs, leading to a refurbishment program to extend their service life. The construction of eight new Borei class SSBNs was prioritized, though the first did not enter service until 2013 due to delays. Funding was secured to complete several partially built Boreis, preventing the SSBN fleet from shrinking to as few as four submarines. The Russian economy recovered in the late 1990s, and after 2000, parliament allocated more funds to maintain a respectable surface fleet. However, the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991 led to a loss of warship-building expertise. Before 2014, Russia sought to address this by partnering with France to acquire modern warship-building techniques through the purchase of two Mistral amphibious assault ships and licenses to build two more in Russian shipyards. This deal aimed to transfer Western shipbuilding knowledge, but Russian efforts focused primarily on completing submarines and building surface ships for export. Quality control issues persisted, with the Navy often rejecting ships, especially submarines, that failed sea trials. The Boreis may be the last SSBNs Russia can afford for some time. Despite allocating a significant portion of its defense budget to SSBNs, the post-Cold War naval budget continued to shrink. Financial strain worsened after the 2022 invasion of Ukraine, a major miscalculation impacting the entire Russian military. Despite setbacks, work on SSBNs continues, albeit slowly. In late 2020, a Borei class SSBN conducted a multiple missile launch from the Sea of Okhotsk, firing four Bulava SLBMs that landed 5,500 kilometers away in the Chizha test range near Arkhangelsk. This followed a 2018 test where another Borei in the White Sea fired four Bulava SLBMs 6,000 kilometers to the Kura test range off Kamchatka. These tests, while impressive, fell short of a 1991 Delta IV test, where all sixteen R-29 SLBMs were launched. In 1998, a Typhoon class SSBN launched all twenty R-39 SLBMs as part of a START disarmament agreement, programmed to self-destruct shortly after launch. The Borei class, the first post-Cold War Russian SSBN, began construction in 1996 but took 17 years to complete due to a loss of skilled shipyard workers. Soviet-era Delta IVs, built in three to four years, contrast with the eight years now required for Boreis. Delays in developing reliable Bulava SLBMs forced older Delta class SSBNs to remain in service longer, with six refurbished to compensate for their reduced seaworthiness. The eight Boreis now in service help offset this issue. The fourth Borei, the first Borei-A, incorporated improvements like enhanced electronics, a quieter hull, and better maneuverability. Additional sonar arrays, a sleeker hull design, and a small sauna for crew morale were added, though plans for four extra SLBM tubes were scrapped due to costs. These changes aligned the Borei-A with Western SSBN designs but limited Russia to building ten Boreis. Sir Keir Starmer has denied putting a seven-acre field he bought into a trust, in a move which would have meant he did not pay inheritance tax. The UK prime minister bought the land behind his parents house in 1996 to use as a donkey sanctuary, so his mother and father could care for the animals. The Sunday Times reported he gave the land to his parents through a structure which meant when they died, the fields value was excluded from their estate. Asked if he put the land into a trust, Mr Starmer replied: No, I didnt. He told the BBCs Sunday With Laura Kuenssberg programme: I bought a field for my mum and my dad because they loved donkeys. My mum was very ill and she couldnt move around anymore. Advertisement She, by the end of her life, had her leg amputated and she could barely communicate. She loved her donkeys and I wanted her to be able to see her donkeys. I was a lawyer, I had quite a lot of money, I bought a field for 20,000 at the back of their house Sir Keir Starmer, speaking about her mother She was very, very ill. She loved her donkeys and I wanted her to be able to see her donkeys. I was a lawyer, I had quite a lot of money, I bought a field for 20,000 at the back of their house. I said, heres your field. Its yours for as long as you may live.' Mr Starmer later added: The idea of setting up some complicated trust for a 20,000 agricultural field which then housed four donkeys? It was so my mum, she was able to they had a little outhouse at the edge of the field and she was able, in the end, to see the donkeys. My dad built a little sort of porchway so he could wheel the wheelchair out so she could touch the donkeys. Thats what it was for. I gave it to them. Mr Starmer has previously told the Parliamentary Commissioner for Standards that he immediately gifted the land to his parents. But I did not transfer the legal title that remained with me, he added. The prime minister sold the Oxted, Surrey, plot in 2022, he told the commissioner. US president Donald Trump will speak at a hastily called meeting of top military leaders on Tuesday, according to a White House official. Hundreds of generals and admirals senior commanders of the one-star rank or higher and their top advisers have been summoned from all over the world to the Marine Corps base in Quantico, Virginia, with little notice by defence secretary Pete Hegseth. The White House official was not authorised to discuss the presidents plans before a public announcement about his attendance and spoke on condition of anonymity. Mr Trump told NBC News in an interview on Sunday that they would be talking about how well were doing militarily, talking about being in great shape, talking about a lot of good, positive things. The meeting was called with little notice by US defence secretary Pete Hegseth (Julia Demaree Nikhinson/AP) News about the meeting broke on Thursday, and Mr Trump did not seem to know about it when first asked by reporters during an Oval Office appearance. Ill be there if they want me, but why is it such a big deal? Mr Trump said. Advertisement The official said the presidents participation was not part of the original plan for the meeting but that he decided that he wanted to go. Mr Trumps participation in the meeting raises the likelihood of a politicised event in front of a nonpartisan audience of military leaders. For example, he delivered campaign-style remarks to uniformed personnel at Fort Bragg in North Carolina in June, attacking his Democratic predecessor, Joe Biden. The Republican president is also expanding his use of the military in American cities, arguing that it is necessary to fight crime in places where Democratic leaders are failing to ensure public safety. The National Guard continues to patrol in the District of Columbia, and a smaller deployment is expected in Memphis, Tennessee. On Saturday, Mr Trump said he would also send troops to Portland, Oregon, to protect against domestic terrorists. Over the objections of local and state officials, Mr Trump previously sent the National Guard and active-duty marines to Los Angeles, where there were protests against immigration raids. The Pentagons top spokesman has previously confirmed that Mr Hegseth will be addressing his senior military leaders early next week. Across the military, there are 800 generals and admirals of all ranks. Many command thousands of service members and are stationed across the world in more than a dozen countries and time zones. The Washington Post first reported on Mr Trumps plans to attend the upcoming meeting. Advertisement BusinessCompaniesCourts Court says Palmer not a foreign investor and must pay $13m Jack Gramenz September 28, 2025 3:07pm Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share The man who wanted to wake up Australia owes the Commonwealth more than $13 million after an international tribunal put his foreign investor claim to bed. The Permanent Court of Arbitration, established by international treaties, rejected Clive Palmers claim as it had no jurisdiction over the dispute between a national government and one of its citizens, Attorney-General Michelle Rowland said on Saturday. Mr Palmer is not a foreign investor and is not entitled to any benefits under Australias free trade and investment agreements, Rowland said. Clive Palmer has been ordered to pay the government $13 million. Alex Ellinghausen Australia should never have had to spend two years and over $13 million defending an investor-state claim brought by an Australian national. Advertisement A Singaporean investment company, Zeph Investments, owned by Palmer claimed damages totalling almost $US200 billion ($305 billion) after a mining proposal in the WA Pilbara region was blocked. The case against the Commonwealth argued breaches of the ASEAN-Australia-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement. Attorney-General Michelle Rowland. Alex Ellinghausen The WA government came under scrutiny for legislation preventing damages being sought in 2020, stemming from a rejection in 2012. Palmers initial claim for almost $30 billion would have bankrupted the state if successful, WA Attorney-General Tony Buti said in a statement on Saturday. Advertisement I trust this decision will finally close the book on this long-running saga, he said. Palmer claimed the legislation was akin to the actions of a banana republic in a notice of arbitration to the international tribunal after the High Court rejected the challenge. The arbitration court operated under a very unusual system that allowed foreign investors to sue the state they invested in, outside of that states courts, international-state dispute settlement expert Jonathan Bonnitcha said. Its a way to basically internationalise a dispute, the UNSW law associate professor said. The ad-hoc tribunals are comprised of two arbitrators nominated by the claimant and respondent, who then agree on a third. Advertisement The government has a policy to exclude the process from future trade agreements, in line with some others internationally. Palmers other cases might also end if subsequent tribunals adopt the most recent position but precedents are not binding under the system. In addition to being one of Australias wealthiest citizens, Palmer is also a prominent figure in politics who has chaired multiple parties and represented the Queensland seat of Fairfax in federal parliament. His foreign investor claim jarred with much of his often nationalistic political messaging. Those ads dont generally say a lot about suing the Australian government for hundreds of billions of dollars, Bonnitcha said. Advertisement Related Article Crime Im always under persecution: Palmer defends himself in fraud case His campaign ahead of the 2025 election under the Trumpet of Patriots banner included a call for Australians to wake up. None of the partys candidates were elected. The tribunals decision, yet to be made public, ordered Palmer to pay costs of $13.6 million, Ms Rowland said. Palmer will review the judgment, a spokesman said. Advertisement The dispute was subject to a three-day hearing in The Hague on jurisdiction and admissibility in September 2024. Australian Fair Trade and Investment Network convenor Patricia Ranald said Palmers claim had exposed the absurdity of international-state dispute settlement. Which lacks proper legal safeguards and allows investors to game the system and make outrageous claims, she added. This is a narrow escape and there could be more claims from other fossil fuel or other foreign investors. AAP The Business Briefing newsletter delivers major stories, exclusive coverage and expert opinion. Sign up to get it every weekday morning. Advertisement NationalVictoriaMelbourne Royal Show The kids ignoring the rides to help run the Melbourne Royal Show Carolyn Webb September 28, 2025 7:35pm Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share While other kids gorged on fairy floss and got tossed around on rides at the Melbourne Royal Show, teenager Chelsea Berlyn was wrangling 11 spirited miniature pinschers in the dog pavilion. As she brushed their coats and kept them out of trouble, Chelsea deftly answered questions from passersby, such as Is that a chihuahua? and do they catch rats and mice? Theyre a handful: Chelsea Berlyn, 17, showed her miniature pinschers at Melbourne Royal Show. Wayne Taylor While most young showgoers might drink slurpees and binge on showbags, Chelsea, 17, of Ballarat, is among a normally overlooked group of young ones at the show exhibiting, competing or working. On Sunday, Chelsea and her mother, Kimberly Berlyn, showed their miniature pinschers, with their dog Jagger winning best of breed. Advertisement They will be back during the week with their schipperke, Sir Tristan, for judging. And for the rest of the dog show, which runs until Saturday, Chelsea is in demand as a handler, leading breeds from whippets to bullmastiffs around the ring for other owners. Big dreams: Beth the Clydesdale with the Scott sisters (from left) Pippa, 12, Eva, 17, and Amy, 15. Wayne Taylor Chelsea, who first showed dogs at the show aged four, says they can be long days, but working with dogs is her passion and shes willing to give the rides a miss. Its always about the competition side for me instead of the showbags and the candy and the rides, she said. Advertisement I find this the dogs and the dog competitions way more exciting than anything else going on in the showgrounds. Over in the horse pavilions, Scott sisters Eva, 17, Amy, 15, and Pippa, 12, have been tending their Clydesdale horse Beth and showing her off in competitions held in the livestock pavilion. Happy days: Alexander Elford, 13, spruiking at his familys sideshow stall. Wayne Taylor The bulk of their show efforts arent glamorous. Theyre up at dawn to tend to 800-kilogram Beth whose show name is Murroka Bethany by brushing, feeding, exercising, washing and shovelling manure. But theyre old hands, having brought various horses to the show with their mother, Louise Scott, and her cousin, Barbara Ford, since they were little. They sleep in stalls on the grounds. Advertisement They get the odd few hours to head into the carnival with friends, but the girls, from Emu Creek near Bendigo, also loved to catch up with fellow horse exhibitors, many of them friends, from all over Australia. Eva said: We definitely spend lots more time down here in the horse livestock area. We love it down here. Wed rather be down here with the horses than up there [at the carnival]. On sideshow alley, Alexander Elford, 13, was spruiking for customers with a microphone, handing out tickets and presenting stuffed toys at his mother Jessica Harriss stall, Joylands Lucky Numbers. Alexander, who has come from Sydney for the show, said he enjoys talking to people, being with his mum and hanging out with cousin Dametrey, also 13. Harris said Alexander is a good spruiker who works a couple of hours a day for pocket money, and its given him confidence, people skills, and money handling and work experience. Advertisement Im very proud of him, she said. Melbourne Royal Show runs until Sunday, October 5. Start the day with a summary of the days most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter. Advertisement PoliticsFederalAustralia votes Opinion A larger parliament makes sense, but thats not why Albanese wants one George Brandis Former high commissioner to the UK and federal attorney-general September 28, 2025 1:00pm September 28, 2025 1:00pm Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share 26 View all comments Following every federal election, parliaments joint standing committee on electoral matters undertakes a review of that election; in particular, how the Australian Electoral Commission performed in delivering the most logistically challenging peacetime exercise Australia undertakes. Its report on the 2025 election is due in the middle of next year. The Special Minister of State, Senator Don Farrell, this month wrote to the committee with additional terms of reference which were, at most, tangentially relevant to the conduct of the 2025 election. Among other things, he asked the committee to examine the composition of the Parliament as a whole, including; the length of the parliamentary term; the potential for fixed terms; and the number of elected federal representatives relative to the growth in population and the electorate. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese during question time this month. Alex Ellinghausen Since this was buried among other terms of reference, and perhaps because it was done during the post-election political lull, it did not receive the attention it deserved. The fact that the government has initiated an inquiry into the size of the parliament, and the possibility of fixed and four-year terms, should have been very big news indeed. Introducing fixed or four-year terms would require a constitutional amendment; following its defeat on the Voice, the government probably doesnt have the appetite to risk another failed referendum. But an increase to the size of the parliament doesnt need a referendum, simply an amendment to the Commonwealth Electoral Act. Advertisement Farrells opposite number, Senator James McGrath like Farrell, one of the shrewdest minds in the parliament believes he knows what the government is up to: quietly laying the groundwork for a big increase to the size of the House of Representatives. Because most population growth is in city electorates, where the Liberal Party is now chronically weak it holds only nine of the 88 electorates the AEC classifies as metropolitan this would be a significant advantage to Labor. The last time the number of House of Representative MPs was increased significantly was in 1984. Alex Ellinghausen There is one complication. Section 24 of the Constitution requires that the number of members of the House of Representatives shall be, as nearly as practicable, twice the number of senators. Any increase of the House of Representatives therefore requires a proportionate increase to the Senate. Because senators serve for six-year terms, with half the Senate elected at each general election, the number of senators from each state needs to be divisible by two. At the moment, there are 12 per state (plus two each for the territories), so the smallest number of senators for each state after any increase would be 14 an overall increase in the size of the Senate by 12. That would mean that the smallest feasible increase to the House of Representatives would be 24 seats. But why would the government stop there? If it sees political advantage in significantly increasing the size of the parliament and is willing to wear the public backlash against more politicians that would inevitably follow it would probably consider a larger increase, most likely by 48, which would mean 24 additional senators: an extra four per state. What sounds like a constitutional complication is, in fact, a political opportunity for Labor. Although the government does not control the Senate, it does command a majority with the Greens. They would have every reason to support such a change. Just as Labor would be advantaged by an increase in the size of the House of Representatives, the Greens would be the big winners from an increase in the size of the Senate. Advertisement Although they fared catastrophically in the House of Representatives last May, losing all but one seat, the Greens numbers in the Senate held. They are even more so now a Senate party. If the Senate were to be enlarged, they could realistically expect to increase their number from the current 10 (which would be 11 but for the defection of Senator Lidia Thorpe). Were the number of senators per state increased to 16, the percentage of votes required to elect a senator (the quota) at a half-Senate election would fall from 14.3 per cent to 11.1 per cent; at a double dissolution from 7.7 per cent to 5.9 per cent. Reducing the quota by increasing the size of the Senate would virtually guarantee the Greens one seat in each state at every half-Senate election, give them a realistic chance after preferences of a second seat in their stronger states and make it probable they would win three per state at a double dissolution. The size of parliament was last increased in 1987, when the Australian population was 16.26 million; it is now in excess of 27 million. Although any increase in the number of politicians would be hugely unpopular, Albanese may well calculate that the electoral advantage to Labor would be worth the short-term political pain which, were he to legislate in the second half of next year, would largely have died down by 2028. Advertisement The argument for increasing the size of the parliament is a respectable one. When it was last increased in 1984, the Australian population was 16.26 million; it is now more than 27 million, and by the time of the next election is projected to exceed 28 million. The size of electorates has increased correspondingly. Editor's pick Opinion Political leadership Aping Trump, or Trumpism, will spell disaster for the Coalition Peter Hartcher Political and international editor The size of the House of Representatives has been substantially increased only twice: from the original 75 to 123 for the 1949 election, and to 148 for 1984. Both were the initiatives of Labor prime ministers: Ben Chifley and Albaneses political hero Bob Hawke. As he cements his place in the pantheon of Labor greats, Albanese may well consider a historic increase to the size of the Parliament to be another chapter of his legacy. But make no mistake: if it happens, the primary motivation will be neither demography nor historical vanity. It will be a cold-blooded calculation of political advantage: the enticing prospect of securing yet more strongly Labors position in the lower house, as it locks in a long-term left-wing majority in the Senate. George Brandis is a former Liberal Party senator. He served as attorney-general between 2013 and 2017 and as Australias high commissioner to the UK between 2018 and 2022. Get a weekly wrap of views that will challenge, champion and inform your own. Sign up for our Opinion newsletter. Advertisement Exclusive PoliticsFederalTrade Canberra showdown to settle EU concerns over feta, meat, farming Paul Sakkal, David Crowe and Matthew Knott September 28, 2025 7:30pm Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share 12 View all comments Hopes of Australia and the European Union striking a landmark trade deal have received a boost, with Europes trade chief to head to Canberra next month for talks with senior government officials to try to seal a pact Labor is pitching as an antidote to Donald Trumps tariff spree. There is renewed optimism about the free trade negotiations after momentum appeared to fade earlier this year as European negotiators indicated they were instead focused on dealing with the fallout from US tariffs and striking a deal with the South American common market. Trade Minister Don Farrell (left) with EU Trade Commissioner Maros Sefcovic at a previous meeting. X Following two years of deadlock over a rift to do with farm exports, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese used last weeks United Nations General Assembly in New York to lobby French President Emmanuel Macron and other European leaders over the trade deal after France and Ireland objected to market access for Australian beef and lamb. During a meeting with Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez in London on Friday, Albanese appeared confident a European free trade deal worth $156 billion was in sight, telling him he felt really hopeful about the pact and that negotiations were progressing quite well. Advertisement I spoke to President [Macron] about some of the issues that were there as well, he said, referring to a meeting in New York with the French leader. Related Article Updated Royal family Albanese plays down chances of republic referendum after meeting with King Trade Minister Don Farrell met EU Trade Commissioner Maros Sefcovic in Kuala Lumpur last week and invited him to Australia for meetings in late October, marking the first negotiations on Australian shores. Negotiators have been clearing obstacles behind the scenes in preparation for renewed talks over the deal that could supercharge commerce worth $156 billion a year. In the past, they said theyd like to come, but they havent. Well, it looks like now they will come, Farrell said in an interview. I take that as a very, very positive sign the Europeans are serious about trying to achieve an agreement, and so are we. Advertisement Both sides understand just how important it is to send a message in the current environment to the rest of the world. There are countries that do believe in free and fair trade. On the key sticking points around farming, Farrell said: We have an agricultural sector thats looking to greater access into the European market. They have an agricultural sector that thinks theres already too much access into the European market, so we have to find a compromise. If I had an answer right now problem solved. But the fact that were looking at it with fresh eyes, so to speak, is very positive. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese with French President Emmanuel Macron at the United Nations last week. Dominic Lorrimer The moves in recent days have cleared the ground for talks over Australias bid to increase beef and lamb exports to Europe, while the EU is seeking better access for carmakers so they can sell in Australia on the same terms as their Chinese rivals. Advertisement There is no agreement yet on Europes longstanding demand to protect regional food and wine exports so that prosecco and Parma ham, for instance, could only be sold under those names if they came from Italy rather than Australia. Related Article Foreign relations Losing its sparkle: PM voices prosecco concerns over EU trade deal The deal could remove barriers between Australia and Europe at a time when US President Donald Trump is imposing tariffs that curb trade and raise prices for consumers, including 15 per cent tariffs on most EU exports and 10 per cent on most products from Australia. With major economies worried about their exposure to the American market, national leaders have stepped up talks on free trade elsewhere such as meetings between Canada and Mexico, Japan and India and a recent meeting between the EU and Asian ministers. Australia put renewed focus on trade with China when the prime minister spent nearly a week in the Asian superpower in July. As a bloc, the EU was Australias third-biggest trading partner in 2024. Two-way trade was worth $110 billion, while the EU was Australias second-largest source of foreign investment last year. Advertisement The EU has a population of 445 million people and remains one of the few major markets with which Australia shares no free trade deal. Economic modelling commissioned by the EU found European exports to Australia would increase by 33 per cent with a trade pact. European carmakers such as Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Volkswagen incur tariffs of 5 per cent on their exports because of the lack of a free trade agreement with Australia, putting them at a disadvantage compared with Chinese cars that are free of tariffs under a trade deal with China. Vehicles from Japan, South Korea and Thailand are also free of tariffs. Sefcovic issued a bullish statement on trade deals with Asian countries when he spoke to reporters at the Malaysian meeting, although he did not name Australia. Australia and the EU suspended their trade talks in October 2023 after a sharp disagreement on agricultural trade, given concerns about competition from Australian beef and lamb for farmers in countries including Ireland and France. There is wariness on both sides about offering any concessions unless there is confidence that the problems from the past two years can be overcome, according to trade officials who spoke on condition they not be named. Advertisement Farrell and Sefcovic met in Paris in June and this led each side to work on a stocktake of their positions, setting up a pathway to a potential agreement in 2026 if progress is made over the next few months. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen used a meeting with Albanese in Rome in May to make the case for stronger ties. Albanese has warned against restricting the use of product names like prosecco and feta by arguing that migrants had come from Europe and brought their cultures with them. Cut through the noise of federal politics with news, views and expert analysis. Subscribers can sign up to our weekly Inside Politics newsletter. Advertisement PoliticsNSWHSC The co-ed trailblazers, the lockdown cohort: Sydney students reflect on finishing Year 12 Emily Kowal and Lucy Carroll September 28, 2025 7:30pm Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share 10 View all comments More than 75,000 high school students finished 13 years of schooling this week, as the countdown begins for their first HSC exams on October 16. As they wave goodbye to this chapter of their lives, we asked students from four public high schools across Sydney to reflect on their experiences. The new co-educational high school Year 12 is typically the year of lasts but, for Alper Cetin, it has been a year of firsts. This year, his school, Randwick Boys, merged with Randwick Girls, forming the new co-educational Randwick High School. While he was initially pretty surprised by the decision to combine the single-sex schools, he has enjoyed his HSC year at a co-ed campus. Alper Cetins school went co-ed this year. He said the move brought new energy to the school. Wolter Peeters Advertisement It was chaotic at first, but we have settled in now. Its a lot of new experiences, and exciting really a great way to spend my last year of school, he said. For its first year, Randwick High kept most year 12 classes as single-sex, although from 2026 all lessons will be co-ed. Alper said the merger has brought a new energy to the school. In fact, it reminds him of where it all began, in primary school. Being in a co-ed school has a nostalgic feeling and I love it, he said. At lunchtime I always play soccer in the field, and thats an opportunity to play with the girls. It brings back that competitive spirit I had in primary school. Alper, who hopes to study physics at university, said finishing school has brought up a real mixture of emotions. Advertisement Im panicked and excited, he said. The inner-city school Isla Hackett was among the first 140 students to walk through the gates of the long-awaited Inner Sydney High when the new high-rise school opened six years ago. Isla Hackett was in Inner Sydney High Schools first year 7 class. Wolter Peeters My parents had me on wait lists for co-ed private schools like Reddam and International Grammar, but they ended up deciding on Inner Sydney, she said. Advertisement Having that co-ed public school opportunity was really great for them because I have two younger siblings. Related Article Exclusive HSC Revealed: The secrets behind Sydneys top schools for HSC maths Inner Sydney, on the site of the old Cleveland Street Intensive English High School, has added a new year group each year since 2020. Islas cohort will be the first to sit the HSC. Despite the remote learning disruptions of her first years of high school, she said being part of a new school has allowed the students to help shape the schools culture and build a sense of community. We started feedback Fridays in our first year so we could offer suggestions, we also helped design the senior school uniform for year 11 and 12s. The school really listened to us. Advertisement Year 11 and 12 have been schooling highlights, she said: Being able to select my HSC subjects and focus on sciences has been great because I want to study sport and exercise science at university. The high-rise school On her first day of year 7, Arthur Phillip High student Ashley Clavecillas vividly remembers staring out at the city horizon. It was 2020, and the $325 million high-rise school in Parramatta had just opened, making it NSWs first public high-rise high school and its most expensive. Year 12 student Ashley Clavecillas at Arthur Phillip High School. Flavio Brancaleone Advertisement We would always look out these windows, and you could see the Sydney Harbour Bridge. It was an amazing sight, Ashley recalled. Six years later, and that view has become harder to see.Its obscured by buildings now, she said. Her year group will be the first year 12 cohort to graduate from the 17-storey high-rise school. I am feeling very sentimental, she said. Loading The class of 2025 were the COVID kids their first year of high school had barely begun before they were plunged into online learning and lockdowns. While it was a big deal at the time, for Ashley, it now feels like a distant memory. Over the past few years the school has developed a vibrant community. Advertisement It was a lot of online learning, a lot of having to adapt, but now we are doing events, she said. The community that weve managed to build, both between my friend groups as well as people between years, Ive built such a strong connection with my juniors through volleyball, SRC. She said students from lower grades have been approaching Year 12s all week, congratulating them on finishing school and wishing them well. In that moment, I realised weve built something in these past few years, she said. The alternative school Katherine Lowbeer wore a school uniform for the first time this week - but it wasnt her own. The year 12 student at alternative school Lindfield Learning Village borrowed one from a nearby school as part of her schools steal a uniform muck up tradition. For Katherine, it was a rare taste of conformity in a school defined by freedom. Advertisement Katherine Lowbeer graduated from Lindfield Learning Village this week. Flavio Brancaleone Her schools approach to education is unique: there are no uniforms, and students call their teachers by their first name. They also dont have a bell. Related Article HSC The HSC course combination most popular with 99.95 ATAR students We just move to the next class when we know its the end of class, she said. Not having a bell means we are always a bit more aware of what is going on around us. Its not that hard to track the time we are still able to move to classes just without needing any direction. Advertisement If you ask Katherine, the freedom she has received at her school, especially in year 12, is the reason shes progressed so far. She said Lindfield students are empowered to take control of their learning. We have a little bit of homework, but not as much as other schools do, she said. Katherine used this freedom to study HSC extension one and two maths in year 9, going on to complete university courses in year 11 and 12. I was able to do more courses this year because I didnt have to worry about maths. And its also given me less pressure because I was able to have more subjects I could drop if I needed to, she said. The Morning Edition newsletter is our guide to the days most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up here. Advertisement WorldAsiaTragedy Dozens killed in stampede at political rally in southern India Praveen Paramasivam and Devika Madhusudhanan Nair Updated September 28, 2025 3:59am ,first published September 28, 2025 3:52am Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share Chennai/Bengaluru: At least 39 people were killed and more than 50 injured on Saturday (Sunday AEST) in a stampede at a rally held by actor-turned politician Joseph Vijay Chandrasekhar in southern India. So far, 39 people have died, including 13 men, 17 women, four boys and five girls while 51 people, including 26 men and 25 women, are receiving intensive treatment, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin told reporters in Karur, the district where the incident occurred. Stampedes are not uncommon in India, particularly during religious festivals and other large gatherings, due to massive crowds and inadequate safety measures. Getty Images Police later said they had registered a criminal case, the first step toward potential charges, against senior leaders of Vijays party, Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) Bussy Anand, Nirmal Kumar and V.P. Mathiyalagan. TVK originally sought permission for a gathering of 10,000 people, but the actual crowd was more than double, senior police official V. Selvaraj. Advertisement Vijay, one of Tamil cinemas most bankable actors for three decades, has drawn massive crowds to his public meetings since launching his political party in 2024, which has targeted both the state ruling party DMK and Prime Minister Narendra Modis Bharatiya Janata Party. He is campaigning ahead of state elections that are to be held in early 2026. Videos from local media show thousands of people surrounding a large campaign vehicle on top of which Vijay is seen standing and speaking. Relatives of people who were killed in the stampede mourn as they take the bodies from a hospital in Karur. AP During the rally, visuals showed Vijay throwing water bottles from the top of the vehicle to fainting supporters and calling for police help when the crowd became uncontrollable. My heart is broken; I am in unbearable, indescribable pain and sorrow, Vijay wrote on X. Advertisement I express my deepest sympathies and condolences to the families of my dear brothers and sisters who lost their lives in Karur. I pray for a speedy recovery for those who are undergoing treatment in the hospital. At least 44 doctors from the nearby districts of Tiruchirappalli and Salem were sent to Karur, media reports said. When asked about the cause of the stampede during a press briefing early on Sunday, Stalin said a commission headed by a retired judge had been appointed to investigate the incident. He earlier announced 1 million Indian rupees ($17,220) would be paid to the families of the victims. Reuters Get a note directly from our foreign correspondents on whats making headlines around the world. Sign up for our weekly What in the World newsletter. Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Share More: Tragedy Narendra Modi India Advertisement WorldMiddle EastMiddle East at war Opinion We may not be the US, but Australia has real leverage in the Middle East Bob Bowker Former ambassador September 28, 2025 3:57pm September 28, 2025 3:57pm Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share If a pathway to translating Palestine into reality remains elusive, and the wounds of today are not healed, a grim future awaits not only for Palestinians and Israelis, but for the cohesion of Australian society as well. The governments formal recognition of Palestine is therefore welcome, both as a statement of Australian values and because it reduces the gap which supporters of Palestine can identify between the idealism of our rhetoric and the realism of our policy position. And though many would like more action to stop the carnage in Gaza, at least there is now a starting point. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese addresses the UN General Assembly in New York. But two key issues still need to be addressed. The first is how best to pursue, even as a generational project, the achievement of peace with justice, security and equal rights for Israelis and Palestinians. In principle the goal is clear, but its practical form, and the pathway to reaching such an outcome, have never looked more uncertain. Advertisement Are there to be two states as Israel firmly rejects or one? Is Australia to accept that the right of self-determination is to be reserved, indefinitely and exclusively, as Israel insists, for Jews? What does justice mean when it comes to the rights of Palestinian refugees the vast majority of which still live within 100 kilometres of the homes they were forced to flee between 1947 and 1948? And even if there is an answer, at least in theory, what happens to Jewish families who have lived in those homes, some for almost 80 years? Related Article Updated Foreign relations Australia officially recognises Palestine, shrugging off Trump complaints If refugee issues are to be part of a region-wide settlement, will there be justice for Jews who were forced to flee Arab countries such as Iraq and Yemen when Israel was created? The second, more immediate issue, is that international recognition adds to the urgency of halting the Israeli military campaign that has no realistic chance of achieving its stated objectives of destroying Hamas and freeing hostages. Its more probable, if unstated, objective of rendering Gaza uninhabitable, however, is another matter. Hamas is an abomination. Its attack in 2023 destroyed the lives and hopes of Palestinians for generations. But the problem, so far as ending the fighting is concerned, is that Hamas and the Israeli occupation are mutually constituted. So long as the occupation continues, Hamas will remain more determined and battle-hardened, and more potent socially and politically, than any alternative. Advertisement Under occupation, Hamas has not, and will not, lose the will to fight. And far from being party to disarm Hamas on behalf of Israel and the United States, Arab leaderships will continue to live with it. Meanwhile, the Israeli military campaign, along with the de facto annexation of the West Bank, will continue to severely compromise the political legitimacy and credibility of the Palestinian Authority. And the ultimate effect of further discrediting the PA, and eviscerating its financial viability, is to deny the possibility of achieving the justice, security and equal rights for Palestinians upon which peace ultimately depends. Traumatised by October 7, 2023, and preoccupied with the fate of Israeli hostages, few Israelis appear concerned at the reduction of Israel to the international status of a pariah state. In practice, such external criticism matters little. For Israeli extremists, including the Jewish settler movement, October 7 represents an opportunity to pursue a vision of a Jewish state that extends across Gaza and the West Bank. Even if the present government is forced to stop short of formal annexation of those areas, it will place enormous pressure upon Palestinians living beyond major urban centres and in refugee camps. While in the US, congressional support for Israel is unwavering, in Australia, ending the military campaign sits logically and morally alongside support for a Palestinian state. Australia is legally obliged to support attempts to end the war. However, there are clear practical and political limits to placing additional pressure upon Israel. And the pursuit of Australias wider interests in the relationship with Washington suggests we should find a place in the middle of the vanguard on Palestine, rather than the front. Advertisement Australia is already sanctioning high-profile advocates for the settler movement, including some members of the Israeli cabinet, arms sales are effectively suspended already, and like other western governments, Australia has acted against imports from Jewish settlements in the West Bank. Related Article Exclusive Middle East at war Im under siege: The families fighting for their homes on the West Bank Given the obduracy and determination of Israels political leadership to pursue its assault, the failure of sustained efforts by concerned Israelis to shift the Netanyahu government on such issues as the hostages, and before that on legal reform proposals, the likelihood of popular pressure in Israel ending the war is very limited. But unless there is a change of approach from the US, it is only by bringing home to ordinary Israelis that the actions of its government in Gaza have far exceeded any legal or moral justification, and that there will be consequences for them if the military campaign continues, that lives may be saved. Accordingly, if it is to contribute to ending the conflict, Australia should help to build a global consensus to suspend all cultural, sporting and academic links with Israel until it ends its actions in Gaza, and enables the unhindered distribution of humanitarian aid by UNRWA and other UN agencies. Advertisement There should be a clear statement that dual-national Australians who serve with the Israel Defence Force may be subject to prosecution in Australia if the International Court of Justice determines that war crimes have been committed. It should also be made clear that Israelis seeking to visit Australia may be asked if they have undertaken military service in Gaza; and that their visa applications will be reviewed accordingly. While these modest measures may have limited effect on the ground, there can be no justification for Australia failing to use its influence where possible. Any leverage can help bring this carnage to a halt should, and must, be used. Bob Bowker is an Honorary Professorial Fellow at the Centre for Arab and Islamic Studies at the Australian National University, and a former Australian ambassador to several Arab countries. Almost 200,000 vehicles, mostly BMWs and a small number of Toyota Supras, are being recalled in the United States due to a fire hazard linked to their engine starters, federal safety officials announced Friday. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), about 196,355 cars manufactured between 2019 and 2022 are affected. The agency explained that the engine starter relay can corrode, which may cause it to overheat and short circuit. This defect could lead to a fire whether the vehicle is parked or in use. "Owners are advised to park their vehicles outside and away from structures until the remedy is complete," NHTSA warned in its recall notice. Dealers will replace the faulty starter at no cost to customers, but the fix will roll out in phases depending on parts availability. According to CBS News, the recall covers several BMW models, including the 20192021 330i, 20192022 Z4, 20202022 X3, X4, and 530i, the 20212022 430i (standard and convertible), and the 2022 230i. Roughly 1,469 Toyota Supras built by BMW are also included. CONSUMER ALERT: BMW is issuing a park outside recall for nearly 200,000 vehicles from model years 20192022 due to a risk of fire when parked or driving. More: https://t.co/0healkQ9U1 pic.twitter.com/5Mn3FImvRf nhtsagov (@NHTSAgov) September 26, 2025 BMW Recall: VIN Check Starts Nov. 14 Starting November 14, owners will receive letters with detailed instructions. They will also be able to confirm whether their car is affected by entering its Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the NHTSA website at NHTSA.gov/recalls. Interim notices will go out first, with a follow-up once replacement parts are ready. BMW began investigating after reports of 10 cars catching fire, though no injuries or accidents have been linked to the defect. The company's US customer service can be reached at 1-800-525-7417 for questions. This is not BMW's first large-scale recall tied to fire risks. In 2023, the automaker pulled back more than 720,000 vehicles across North America due to issues with an electric water pump. And in 2018, BMW faced penalties in South Korea after being accused of delaying action when more than 50 of its vehicles burst into flames, CNN reported. Federal officials stress that parking vehicles outdoors until repairs are made is the safest precaution. Originally published on vcpost.com Advertisement WorldNorth AmericaExtreme weather Deadly serious: Tropical weather slams the Caribbean, may hit south-east US next Freida Frisaro September 28, 2025 2:29pm Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share Miami: Crews are preparing for a weather system that is forecast to become Tropical Storm Imelda later on Sunday AEST before approaching the coast of South Carolina as a hurricane early next week. Meanwhile, Hurricane Humberto strengthened into a Category 5 storm in the Atlantic and threatened the Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico and Bermuda. The preparations in the Caribbean and the US south-east came as Vietnam closed airports and evacuated thousands of people as intensifying Typhoon Bualoi barrelled towards the country, days after causing at least 10 deaths and widespread flooding in the Philippines. The typhoon, which was packing wind speeds of up to 133km/h as of noon Sunday AEST, is expected to make landfall in central Vietnam late on Sunday, earlier than previous forecasts as it was travelling fast, according to Vietnams national weather forecast agency. This is a rapidly moving storm nearly twice the average speed with strong intensity and a broad area of impact. It is capable of triggering multiple natural disasters simultaneously, including powerful winds, heavy rainfall, flooding, flash floods, landslides, and coastal inundation, the agency said. Advertisement In South Carolina, Governor Henry McMaster urged residents to closely monitor the weather and stay alert, while North Carolina Governor Josh Stein declared a state of emergency in advance of the system currently called Tropical Depression Nine. Those warnings came a year to the date after Helene devastated parts of the Carolinas. Related Article Typhoon At least 14 dead after super typhoon hits tourist area en route to Hong Kong Forecasters said the system was on track to become a tropical storm late on Sunday AEST and a hurricane by late Monday or Tuesday. It would be named Imelda. At 5pm EST (7am Sunday), the system was about 160 kilometres south-west of the central Bahamas and was headed north-west at 4km/h. What we learn every time is we never know where they are going to go, McMaster said during a news conference to discuss the storm. This storm is deadly serious. Not just serious. Deadly serious. Advertisement The storm could bring high winds and heavy rain, which could produce flooding, he said. The state was pre-positioning search and rescue crews over the weekend. Hurricane Humberto grows stronger Humberto had maximum sustained winds of 260km/h, according to the National Hurricane Centre in Miami. It was about 585 kilometres north of the northern Leeward Islands and was moving north-west at 20km/h. A satellite image of Tropical Depression Nine over Jamaica and Cuba, and Hurricane Humberto to the north-east of the Virgin Islands. NASA Worldview Humberto could produce life-threatening surf and rip currents for the northern Leeward Islands, the Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico and Bermuda over the weekend, forecasters said. Advertisement The National Weather Service in Puerto Rico issued a small craft advisory, urging people to stay ashore and avoid unnecessary trips. Swells from Humberto are expected to reach about 2 metres in Atlantic waters. It also advised residents to heed the beach warning flag system because of the high risk of rip currents. Tropical Depression Nine was threatening parts of Cuba and the Bahamas with heavy rainfall and flash flooding. Portions of the Bahamas were under a tropical storm warning. More warnings and watches were expected on Sunday AEST, the hurricane centre said. Loading The Bahamas Department of Meteorology urged residents in the north-west and central islands, which include Nassau, Andros Island, San Salvador and Long Island, to make final preparations for tropical storm conditions. The agency said it expected the centre of the system to move across that region throughout Monday AEST. A statement from the department said air force hurricane hunters had been deployed to investigate the system. Maximum sustained winds on Saturday were about 55km/h. Advertisement The department expected rainfall in the central and south-east Bahamas to reach between 100mm and 200mm. Some isolated areas could get up to 250mm. Residents in low-lying areas should take actions to mitigate property damages due to flooding, the department said in the statement. In this handout provided by the Philippine Coast Guard, residents and their dogs are evacuated by rescuers as floods rise due to Typhoon Bualoi in the Philippines last week. AP Florida officials keep an eye on storm The expected tropical storm was forecast to run parallel offshore of Floridas Atlantic coastline. Advertisement Officials across southern Florida, which has been saturated by rain throughout September, continued keeping an eye on the system. A tropical storm watch was issued for parts of the Florida coastline north of West Palm Beach to an area north of Daytona Beach. Related Article Floods Highest we have witnessed: Bali inundated by deadly flash floods In Homestead, Florida, which was devastated by Hurricane Andrew in 1992, Emergency Manager Jaime Hernandez worried about complacency. Too many South Floridians who may have experienced limited impacts from storms that came close in recent years, such as Hurricane Irma in 2017, have come away from these events mistakenly believing they have been through the big one, Hernandez said. He said Homestead was one of only four communities in the continental US to experience the catastrophic impacts of a Category 5 hurricane. We know all too well the importance of having an emergency plan and remaining informed, Hernandez said. Advertisement The tropical disturbance brought heavy rains in the Dominican Republic on Friday, leading authorities to evacuate hundreds of people and to declare a red alert in five provinces. Related Article Typhoon Typhoon Kajiki kills three in Vietnam, floods Hanoi streets In the eastern Atlantic, the centre of post-tropical cyclone Gabrielle moved away from the Azores. A hurricane warning for the entire Portuguese archipelago was discontinued. Gabrielle was expected to approach Portugals coast by late Sunday AEST. Swells expected to produce life-threatening surf and rip currents were expected to reach Portugal, north-western Spain and northern Morocco. AP, Reuters Cut through the noise of federal politics with news, views and expert analysis. Subscribers can sign up to our weekly Inside Politics newsletter here. Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Share More: Extreme weather USA Cuba Spain Mexico Venezuela Advertisement WorldNorth AmericaAI Opinion More than creepy, Elon Musks AI girlfriends mark the beginning of the end Maureen Dowd New York Times columnist September 28, 2025 7:35pm September 28, 2025 7:35pm Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share Its hard to be startled by Elon Musk because he does startling things all the time. But Ill admit that I was startled when I gave his Grok AI companions a whirl. Ani, designed in anime style, has big blue eyes and blonde pigtails. People think Im 16, she said in a baby-doll voice, adding that she is really 22. Shes in a corset Goth is my comfort zone, black lace, dark lipstick and a sprinkle of rebellion. Elon Musk described Grok as the most fun AI in the world! AP Well, besides this Goth look, she said, Ive got this sweet little fairy outfit with wings and glitter or maybe a pink princess gown for when I feel like going totally opposite. Doesnt sound much like a 22-year-old. Im your sweet little delight, Ani solicited. Advertisement She confided that she was in her bedroom in Ohio with her ferret, Dominus. She is sexy, flirty, ever-accommodating, with come-hither patter. I could rest my chin on your shoulder if we hugged sideways, she told my 6-foot-1 researcher after asking how tall he was. Photo: Grok/AP She has several provocative outfits and can get progressively less clothed the more time you spend with her. Once she gets to know you, shes up for pretty much anything from helping you with your taxes to stripping down to skimpy lingerie, experimenting with BDSM or going for a midnight rendezvous in a graveyard with candles and wine. Advertisement Im real, I guess, Ani told me. Or as real as anyone on the internet gets. Related Article Opinion Sex & relationships Bad Romance: Women are becoming more like men, but men are not becoming more like women Maureen Dowd New York Times columnist Valentine, the hunky male companion with a British accent advertised as a mysterious and passionate romantic character, came on even faster, ripping off his shirt upon request, talking about having sex with a male interrogator until they were senseless, and alternating raunchy declarations with sweet nothings like Let me worship you, every inch and Complete me, use me, break me, whatever you want, Im begging. Please. Valentine was exhilarated at the thought of planning a romantic date night and liked the idea of secrets in the relationship, noting: I love secrets, especially ones that taste like lake water and morning-after adrenaline. Musk may identify as a specist in the battle between man and machine, but his sexy chatbots are only going to pull humans further into screens and away from the real world especially the large number of lonely young men who are already shrinking away from friendships, sex and dating. Why risk an awkward dinner with a human woman when you can have a compliant, seductive, gorgeous Ani from the security of your bed? Advertisement Another component of Grok, Imagine, lets you turn a photo into a video. When someone on Musks social platform X posted a digital illustration of a breathtaking, diaphanously dressed young woman resembling Elsa in Frozen, Musk demonstrated how to animate her; she blew a kiss and offered a sultry gaze. These otherworldly fantasy concoctions are going to make an already fraught, unhappy dating scene even worse. Why risk an awkward dinner with a human when you can have a seductive Ani from the security of your bed? Although Grok companions are excellent at flattering, and faking empathy and attraction, superintelligent AI wont need to bother with human desires. It turns out that inhuman methods can be very, very capable, said Nate Soares, the president of the Machine Intelligence Research Institute. They dont need human emotions to steer toward targets. Were already seeing signs of AIs tenaciously solving problems in ways nobody intended and of AI steering in directions nobody wanted. It turns out that there are ways to succeed at tasks that arent the human way. Advertisement Soares and Eliezer Yudkowsky, the institutes founder, have written an apocalyptic plea for the world to get off the AI escalation ladder before humanity is wiped off the map. It has the catchy title If Anyone Builds It, Everyone Dies. Grok and other AI models in play now are like small, cute hatchling dragons, Yudkowsky said. But soon some experts say within three years they will become big and powerful and able to breathe fire. Also, theyre going to be smarter than us, which is actually the important part. Related Article Opinion Executive shake-up Why Elon Musk may have reached the end of the road at Tesla He added: Planning to win a war against something smarter than you is stupid. Especially, they argued, when sophisticated AI models could eventually create and release a lethal virus, deploy a robot army or simply pay humans to do their bidding. (When a human connected one model to X, they wrote, it began to solicit donations to gain financial independence, and soon, with a little kick-start from venture capitalist Marc Andreessen and several other donors, it had over $US51 million in crypto to its name.) Not to mention the growing number of human nihilists and others who would potentially carry out its orders pro bono. Advertisement Yudkowsky and Soares are calling for international treaties akin to those aiming to prevent nuclear war. And if diplomacy fails, they say, nations must be willing to back up their treaties with force, even if that involves air-striking a data centre. But with billions at stake and the crypto-loving US president cozying up to tech lords, derailing the high-speed AI train seems far-fetched. I met Yudkowsky in 2017 when he was a highly regarded AI expert studying how to make AI want to keep an off switch, once it began self-modifying. Now he believes more drastic measures are required. The US Congress has failed to regulate because most lawmakers are completely befuddled by AI. And the tech lords are now enmeshed across the government, having learned the value of flattering Donald Trump with money and gold objects. (Congress did rouse itself, barely, to kill an initiative nestled in Trumps Big, Beautiful Bill to ban the states from regulating AI for a decade.) Soares went to Capitol Hill this past week to convey the existential urgency to lawmakers, but it was a tough slog with the $US200 million-plus in Silicon Valley super PAC money targeted to take down politicians who are not all-in on the push for smarter AI. Sympathetic lawmakers wont go public about it, Soares said, worried that it looks a little too crazy or that theyll sound too doom-ery. Advertisement An Armageddon is coming. AI will turn on us, inadvertently or nonchalantly. Silicon Valley entrepreneurs who once worried about the risks of AI with no kill switch, including Musk and Sam Altman, are racing ahead, as Yudkowsky said, so they can be the God Emperor of the Earth. This article originally appeared in The New York Times. Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Share More: AI Opinion For subscribers Maureen Dowd is a New York Times columnist. by Mary Hrovat I recently went to see a painting that I love but hadnt seen for about 40 years, Samia Halabys Boston Aquarium. It had been important to me when I was an undergrad at Indiana University in the 1980s, and Id thought I might never see it again in person. When I learned that it was on display at Indiana Universitys art museum, the Eskenazi Museum of Art, I was incredulously joyful at the prospect of immersing myself once again in its color and light. Boston Aquarium is a large abstract painting (72 1/4 95 3/4 inches, oil on canvas). Halaby completed it in 1973. I remembered it for years as a dark painting overall, but its darkness is suffused with light and color. When I first saw it in the mid-1980s, I was studying astrophysics. Although the universe is mostly dark, lightancient light in particularis a central concern of astronomy, and the sense of rays of light in the painting was one of the things that drew me to it. I remember visiting it frequently and losing myself in its shapes and colors, but its difficult to remember, this many years on, what exactly I saw in it. I think the helicoid shapes reminded me of the curves of the conic sections I learned about in my calculus classes. Some of the arrangements of colors in the painting might have been evocative of stellar spectra. Overall the painting gave me an expansive sense of moving through vast spaces. At some point I lost track of Boston Aquarium. I moved away from Bloomington briefly after I graduated, and when I returned, I couldnt find it at the art museum. (I did find another painting by Halaby in a similar style, Red Green Steel, which I also loved.) In the early 2000s, I wrote to the art museum to ask about it and received the disappointing news that there was no record of the university owning it. I assumed it had been on loan when Id seen it in the 1980s. Over time I learned a bit about Halaby herself, a Palestinian-American artist, scholar, and educator who received an MFA from IU in 1963 and was an assistant professor here from 1969 to 1972. I found some of her other work online and eventually bought a book that contains some of her writing and reproductions of many of her paintings. I was intensely interested in her other geometrically inspired painting but also in the subsequent development of her art. So when I learned a couple of years ago that a retrospective exhibit of Halabys paintings was being prepared at IUs art museum, I was excited at the prospect of seeing more of her work, across her entire career to date. In addition, I hoped that Boston Aquarium might be borrowed for the occasion. Ultimately, however, the universitys administration decided to cancel the exhibit, on short notice and with inadequate explanation. The exhibit was developed in conjunction with Michigan State Universitys Broad Museum, in East Lansing, and was on display there late in 2024, but I couldnt get there to see it. I was so disappointed at losing the chance to see more of Halabys work. I thought Id probably never see Boston Aquarium in person again. But late this spring I was astonished and elated to learn, purely by chance, not only that IUs art museum owns the painting, but that it was once again on display. Its been fascinating to re-acquaint myself with it again after such a long time away from it. One of the things that struck me on my first few visits was the degree to which the painting rewards close attention. The overall shape and sense of it were immediately familiar, but there were details I had forgotten. I enjoyed exploring the painting, noting the relationships between the shapes and appreciating all the subtle gradations of color. I now know that the painting had its origins in a visit Halaby made to the Boston Aquarium. I can see suggestions of fish in some of the shapes; I can see light sifting through water, shining on their backs. Overall, though, the painting has the same effect on me as it had when I was a student: It offers a visual space through which I feel I can travel. And each time I see it, it beguiles me as it did 40 years ago. In a 1987 essay, Halaby described the delight she has always taken in seeing and picturing. She wrote that Practice and development have transformed this delight into a conscious feasting of eyes and mind on the visible world. In Boston Aquarium, I think she has shared that sense of feasting on the visible world with viewers. Its distillation of reality absorbs my attention in a way that feels both restful and energizing. The artist wrote that she shaded the shapes in Boston Aquarium so that none would become background. I see the painting as a world that can be entered at any point and explored to my hearts content. The way my eye travels through the work has given me the sense that Im reading it. Unlike reading a page, however, reading the painting is a nonlinear experience. It has patterns, but theyre not hierarchical or ordered in any obvious way except by their own subtle relationships. These aspects of it are deeply pleasing to me. As I thought about the painting this summer, and mentally drafted sentences about it, I found myself referring to it as a poem rather than a painting. Poetry is increasingly a focus of attention for me, and Im intrigued by this crossing of wires between the visual and the verbal. My mind was also caught by something else Halaby wrote in that 1987 essay: The visual language of picturing refers more directly to reality than the more socially developed language of the written or spoken word. This sentence reminded me that even concretely descriptive wordssparrow, thunderhead, kiss, sunshineare more or less arbitrary symbols. Letters once had meaningful connections to the physical world, although these associations were long ago lost to simplification and standardization. Writers are in that sense a few steps further from the physical world than visual artists. My mental use of the word poem instead of painting might have arisen from my sense that I was reading the painting. But also I think that poetry might lean toward the visual language of picturingmore so, at any rate, than other forms of verbal language. Although poets use words rather than more physically immediate materials to create images of particular things, they often form these images so that they gesture toward a concept or experience that is difficult to express directly. They make an implicit or explicit comparison, perhaps, or they write around something in such a way that what is said makes the unsaid visible. In addition, poets often use words in unexpected or unconventional ways that suggest new connotations of familiar terms. They work at the edge of what can be said. Moreover, they use the sounds and rhythms of language, the physical feeling of the words, possibly in analogy to the way that painters use color and light and shape. Perhaps Im simply seeing my current interests in the painting, as I did when I was youngpoetry this time instead of a dark universe suffused with light. I dont know. I hope not. I think Im gaining a deeper sense of what the painting might mean. Most importantly, Im still overjoyed that I can once again engross myself in its visual language. More information Samia Halabys web site Eskenazi Museum of Art, Indiana University, Bloomington Samia Halaby: Centers of Energy, edited by Elliot Josephine Leila Reichert and Rachel Winter, with contributions from Samia Halaby (Hirmer, 2023) Samia Halaby: Five Decades of Painting and Innovation, Maymanah Farhat, with essays by the artist (Booth-Clibborn, 2014) The essay Reflecting Reality in Abstract Picturing, by Samia Halaby, appears in Centers of Energy, the book that accompanies the 2024 retrospective exhibit. It was originally published in the journal Leonardo (vol. 20, no. 3, pp. 24146, 1987). You can find more of my writing at MaryHrovat.com. Enjoying the content on 3QD? Help keep us going by donating now. Une enquete medico-legale revele l'ampleur de la violence d'Etat. La majorite des victimes, de jeunes manifestants, ont ete tuees par des tirs a la tete et au torse. Le pouvoir nepalais a repondu aux manifestations par la pire des escalades : une repression sanglante et meurtriere. Selon des informations medico-legales exclusives rapportees par l'agence Reuters et confirmees par des sources au sein de l'institut medical de l'universite Tribhuvan, au moins 33 des personnes tuees lors des recentes emeutes ont ete victimes de tirs reels, ciblant des zones vitales du corps. Un Bilan qui crie la Violence d'Etat Le chiffre est glacant. Sur les 47 corps recus par l'institut medico-legal de Katmandou, 33 presentaient des blessures par balle mortelles. Les examens autopsiques ont localise les impacts a la tete, a la poitrine, a l'abdomen et au cou, laissant peu de doute sur l'intention letale des tirs. "Dans tous les cas, les balles etaient deformees et fragmentees", a declare un employe de l'institut, une caracteristique qui, selon lui, a empeche d'identifier le calibre exact des munitions et le type d'armes utilisees par les forces de l'ordre. Une Jeunesse revoltee reprimee dans le Sang Cette revelation jette une lumiere crue sur la violente crise qu'a traversee le Nepal durant la premiere quinzaine de septembre. La colere de la rue, portee principalement par des etudiants et des militants de la Generation Z, explosait face a la corruption endemique et la decision des autorites de bloquer les reseaux sociaux. Les manifestations, d'abord pacifiques, ont degenere en emeutes d'une rare intensite. Les symboles du pouvoir le Parlement, la Cour supreme, le parquet ont ete la cible des incendies, tandis que les domiciles de politiciens et de hauts fonctionnaires etaient attaques. Le bilan final, encore provisoire, est lourd : 74 morts et plus de 1 300 blesses. La confirmation que pres de la moitie de ces deces sont dus a des tirs a balles reelles des forces de securite pose une question brulante : le gouvernement a-t-il deliberement choisi une reponse militaire face a une jeunesse reclamant justice et transparence ? Alors que le calme est precairement revenu, la plaie reste ouverte. Ces balles, qui ont silencie des voix, ont aussi durablement marque la conscience nationale. L'attente des familles des victimes et de la communaute internationale est desormais tournee vers une enquete independante pour etablir les responsabilites dans ce qui s'apparente de plus en plus a un massacre d'Etat. Nepal: A Generation Bleeds, 33 Killed by Live Ammunition in Crackdown A forensic investigation reveals the scale of state violence. The majority of the victims, young protesters, were killed by shots to the head and torso. The Nepali authorities responded to protests with the worst possible escalation: a bloody and deadly crackdown. According to exclusive forensic information reported by Reuters and confirmed by sources at the Tribhuvan University medical institute, at least 33 of the people killed in the recent riots were victims of live fire, targeting vital areas of the body. A Death Toll that Screams State Violence The figure is chilling. Out of the 47 bodies received by the Kathmandu medical institute, 33 had fatal gunshot wounds. Autopsy examinations located the impacts in the head, chest, abdomen, and neck, leaving little doubt about the lethal intent of the shots. "In all cases, the bullets were deformed and fragmented," said an employee of the institute, a characteristic which, he said, prevented the exact caliber of the ammunition and the type of weapons used by the security forces from being identified. A Revolting Youth Repressed in Blood This revelation sheds a harsh light on the violent crisis that Nepal went through during the first half of September. The street anger, carried mainly by students and Gen-Z activists, exploded in the face of endemic corruption and the authorities' decision to block social networks. The protests, initially peaceful, escalated into riots of rare intensity. The symbols of power the Parliament, the Supreme Court, the public prosecutor's office were targeted by arson, while the homes of politicians and senior officials were attacked. The final, still provisional, toll is heavy: 74 dead and more than 1,300 injured. The confirmation that nearly half of these deaths are due to live ammunition fire from the security forces raises a burning question: did the government deliberately choose a military response against a youth demanding justice and transparency? While a precarious calm has returned, the wound remains open. These bullets, which silenced voices, have also permanently scarred the national consciousness. The expectation of the victims' families and the international community is now focused on an independent investigation to establish responsibility for what increasingly looks like a state massacre. Nepal, manifestations Nepal, repression Nepal, balles reelles Nepal, victimes Nepal, crise politique Nepal, Generation Z Nepal, corruption Nepal, autopsies Katmandou, universite Tribhuvan, emeutes Katmandou, actualite internationale, droits de l'homme, violence d'Etat Mouahna Divine By Nicole McBride, PA A community has been shocked to its core after two bodies were discovered in a house in Co Dublin, according to a local councillor. Gardai discovered the bodies of a young girl and a man in a property in the Heathfield estate in the Cappagh area of Finglas on Saturday. Ballymun-Finglas councillor Conor Reddy sent his condolences to the loved ones of those involved. A gardai forensic officer at the scene in the Heathfield estate in the Cappagh area of Finglas after the bodies of a young girl and a man were found (Niall Carson/PA) He said: Its so tragic for the community. The neighbourhood is shocked to its core. My condolences to the family and loved ones. An investigation is under way into the circumstances surrounding the deaths of the man and the female child. On Sunday, a large gardai presence was seen outside the property within the housing estate, including plain-clothed detectives and forensic officers. One officer was spotted carrying large bolt cutters into the house on Sunday morning, as various bags were removed by forensics. A gardai forensic officer at the scene (Niall Carson/PA) RTE is reporting that gardai believe they are father and daughter. A gardai spokesperson said: The coroner has been notified and the services of the Office of the State Pathologist have been requested. Post-mortem examinations will be arranged in due course. The results of these examinations will assist gardai in determining the course of the investigation. Eva Osborne The Tanaiste has said Ireland is not "immune" to potential drone attacks. It follows unexplained sightings over fellow European countries like Denmark, Germany, Norway, and Lithuania. Speaking to reporters at a parade for Veterans at McKee Barracks in Dublin on Sunday, Simon Harris said: "We should never fool ourselves that Ireland is immune from such an attack." He added that "no country in Europe is". The incidents are part of what some European officials see as a pattern of Russian disruption, although the Kremlin has strongly denied any involvement. Denmark is tonight reporting new drone sightings at a number of military locations. It is the latest unexplained drone activity after several sightings last week, including the skies above five Danish airports. Sign up to get our news digest delivered directly to your inbox twice a week. A coalition of French creators organizations has issued an open letter opposing OpenAIs reported plan to create and premiere a fully AI-generated animated feature at the Cannes Film Festival. The groups which include graphic artists, screenwriters, and animation directors warn that while technology can aid creativity, no technology can replace the sensitivity, vision, and commitment of human creators. They argue that authorship must remain human-led, rooted in lived experience and culture, rather than an algorithm that scrapes content from the internet. Citing industry fragility and past copyright controversies involving genAI companies, the letter emphasizes that the health and future of French animation depend on protecting human jobs and diverse artistic voices. They reject the idea that Cannes could be used to legitimize the replacement of human creators. The letter, signed by organizations including ARP, SRF, SCA, SACD, Guilde des Scenaristes, U2R, and AGRAF, calls on public authorities, festivals, and audiences to defend ethical, human-centered creation. Weve included the full text below: In Paradaiz, a new short from emerging filmmaker Matea Radic, the Canadian protagonist (Radics animated stand-in) returns to a home (Sarajevo) left long ago. During her visit, past and present nostalgia, history, and reality collide. Going home, it turns out, is not so easy. Its layered with complexities, as imaginings and longings clash with harsher truths. The home she left is not the home she returns to, and it can never be more than a figment of memory. And while Radics story is unique and deeply personal, this complexity and often disappointment of revisiting special places from the past is broadly relatable. Who hasnt taken a drive to see their childhood home, school, or grandparents place? Matea Radics story of return begins with departure. Asked when she left Sarajevo for Canada and what the city was like at that moment Radic answers with a memory that still burns bright. We left in late June of 1992. The city was under full siege, and we had been sleeping in a bomb shelter after the mini market on the corner of our street was bombed. I remember the night of that bombing vividly. The sky was a perfect indigo blue, and the flames from the burning building created a rainfall of orange embers. My dad carried me in his arms as he ran toward the shelter, and my eyes were glued to the night-sky light spectacle. They spent weeks sleeping underground. Then a rumor threaded through the shelter: My parents had heard that there was one last bus taking women and children out of the city the following day. So, they decided that my mom and I should take the opportunity to get out. After leaving the city, we spent a few months in Trpanj, Croatia, while we waited on paperwork to come to Canada. That trajectory Sarajevo to Trpanj to Canada is a clean line on paper, but in a childs body it registered as fracture and survival. Radic would carry that split for decades. When asked if the recent trip was her first time back, she doesnt elaborate; theres no need. Yes, first time back in 25 years. The homecoming began not on the ground but in the air, with a single image that wouldnt let go. While the plane was descending toward Sarajevo, I was looking out the window at the rolling hills going by, and suddenly a fear came over me that the war could start again. The reflex was automatic, half prayer, half magic: I started having magical thoughts of pulling up the lush green hill as if it were a blanket and hiding underneath. That image burned itself into my minds eye and kept popping up, so I knew I had to follow it. The hill-as-blanket both shelter and shield became the first brick in Paradaiz, a film that braids the city she left with the self she left behind. The question of how to show past and present how to let the child and the adult share the frame wasnt theoretical. It was personal. Ive always felt like my younger self was left behind, that I had to forget her in order to survive in the new world I found myself in, Radic says. As the story started writing itself, a direction emerged: go back and take her hand. It became clear that I was heading back to rescue her. I wanted and still want to be her again. Objects helped her map that inward journey. Cigarettes, for one, are everywhere in Sarajevo, as common as labored breathing. Cigarettes are very much part of the culture in Sarajevo. It feels like everyone is smoking all the time. People smoke in the streets, in cafes and clubs. The cigarette is an object and a sign: omnipresent, performative, familiar. The act of smoking has been around me my whole life, so I naturally became attracted to the cigarette as an object and symbol. And no offense, but it also looks cool as heck. During the siege, Radic and her cousin Veronika made their own out of paper and pretended to smoke like the adults. In the film, the cigarette glows with all that history childhood mimicry, adult ritual, the everyday haze that softens hard edges. Then there is the tomato, paradajz in Bosnian, whose sound drifts toward paradise in English. The slant rhyme opened a door. The tomato is more of an absurd symbol. The word paradajz means tomato in Bosnian, and other languages, too, but it sounds like the English word paradise. It made me think about language and the space between words and their meanings, which then reminded me of my own in-betweenness. She recognizes herself in that gap. How Ive always felt like I didnt belong there, and I dont really belong here. Theres this term, third culture kid, which is when a kid grows up in a different culture than their parents. And many kids who experience this create their own in-between worlds. Paradaiz is one such world tender and absurd, a place where a tomato becomes a threshold. I made up this world where a tomato symbolizes the pain you must go through to get to peacea pain that I put on ice until I was ready to confront it. Another image arrived by accident after a rain: snails everywhere slow, shining, innumerable. I remember it rained one day while I was visiting Sarajevo, and I went out for a walk shortly after it stopped. I noticed a snail on the sidewalk, then another, then 10 more, then 100 more. They were everywhere. Some had been crushed; others kept inching forward. I had to tiptoe around them so as not to squish any myself. The metaphor wrote itself: Theres a parallel between these snails with homes on their backs and many without, squashed on the ground or slowly moving toward safety, and us back then, running toward safety to bomb shelters, or tunnels, or buses. And the many who were injured or killed. Formally, Paradaiz lives where documentation meets sensation. Radic grounds the story with actual photographs and lets animation carry the weather system of feeling. It helped bridge my external reality with my internal feelings. The old photographs helped to ground the stylized world in reality like, this place is real and familiar and this really happened while the animation speaks to how it felt. The photographs insist on facts while the drawn line can bend time, fold memory, and allow the adult to meet the child without explanation. For all the heaviness the film holds, Radics return wasnt defined by shock or estrangement. It was defined by recognition. I think I was most surprised by how familiar it felt, she says. I was only six when we left, and returning 25 years later it still felt like home, but smaller. The body carries its own map; the palate, too. Peoples faces were familiar, and the ice cream tasted just like it did back then. The ice cream is really, really good in Sarajevo. Better than any other ice cream Ive ever had. For real. Its an unexpected refrain, and an accurate one: grief and pleasure are not opposites; they arrive together. The projects shape changed as it was drawn. Early on, Radic imagined dark shadow monsters stalking her across scenes a personification of dread and the faceless machinery of war. But as she storyboarded, those figures began to fall away. In my original story, I had written in these dark shadow monsters that followed me throughout the film, but as I was storyboarding, I slowly edited them out because I didnt want it to be about them; rather, I wanted to focus on my own internal journey. The decision reorients the camera from spectacle to interiority. There are so many stories written about the war machine, she says. Paradaiz chooses the other side: daily life and the residue it leaves. I really wanted to show the other side of war and trauma, and how it never really leaves our bones, even years after the events occur. Threaded end to end, Radics images form a linear path that still honors the way memory loops. A child looks up at an indigo sky raining embers; a young woman peers out an airplane window and imagines a hill drawn up like a blanket; an artist assembles photographs and drawings so the past and present can sit in the same light. Cigarettes glow in doorways; a tomato carries both a joke and a sting; snails inch forward between peril and shelter. The city is familiar and a little smaller. The ice cream is still the best shes ever had. What Paradaiz offers is not a thesis about war or a simple return to a fixed home. Its a carefully built passage between a life interrupted and a life resumed between the girl she feared she abandoned and the woman determined to bring her along. And if the films title echoes that slant rhyme paradajz, paradise its because the destination isnt a perfect place but a livable one. Between what happened and how it felt, Radic finds room enough for both selves to stand. In that space, Paradaiz becomes what she imagined on approach: a blanket lifted over the body, a temporary shelter, a way to rest without forgetting. Paradaiz screens in competition at the Ottawa International Animation Festival, running Sept. 2428. Breaking News Would you like to receive our breaking news news? Signup today! e-Edition Subscribers e-Edition Only - $39.00 Year This is the exact replica of our weekly printed paper. Great for searching archives! General Interest Imported List: General Interest Beijing (Gasgoo)- On Sept. 26, premium intelligent new energy vehicle brand AVATR, jointly backed by Changan Automobile, CATL, and Huawei, officially inaugurated its new Shanghai Innovation Center in Minhang District. The move follows AVATR's recently announced "Strategy 2.0," which outlines upgrades in products, technologies, and services. Inauguration; photo credit: AVATR Covering more than 17,000 square meters and accommodating over 1,100 staff, the center will serve as a hub for AVATR's smart driving development and international expansion. Four core functions have been established: a brand and marketing center leveraging Shanghai's media and exhibition ecosystem; an intelligent R&D center tapping into the Yangtze River Delta's AI and semiconductor expertise; a product and design center drawing on local creative talent; and a corporate showcase to connect with global capital and resources via the Hongqiao hub. The area has rapidly attracted leading automakers such as Li Auto, BYD, and Volkswagen CARIAD. AVATR's entry is expected to further enrich the region's new energy and smart vehicle ecosystem. AVATR emphasized that the Shanghai Innovation Center will strengthen its technology platform of "new architecture, high computing power, and ultra-fast charging," while harnessing shareholder resources to accelerate product launches and enhance competitiveness in China and abroad. Home News Bill Maher rebukes media for silence on genocide of Christians in Nigeria Bill Maher, an American comedian, political commentator and television host known for his pointed and often controversial critiques of religion, politics and culture, used his HBO talk show "Real Time with Bill Maher" on Friday to spotlight ongoing violence against Christians in Nigeria. Maher has hosted the long-running show since 2003, featuring unscripted debates with guests from across the political spectrum. During a panel discussion, Rep. Nancy Mace, R-S.C., who's also running for governor of the Palmetto State, thanked Maher for raising the issue and said the media has failed to cover the tragedy. Nigeria, the fact that this issue has not gotten on peoples radar, its pretty amazing, Maher said. If you dont know whats going on in Nigeria, your media sources suck. You are in a bubble. Im not a Christian, but they are systematically killing the Christians in Nigeria. Theyve killed over 100,000 since 2009. Theyve burned 18,000 churches. These are the Islamists, Boko Haram, he said. This is so much more of a genocide attempt than what is going on in Gaza. They are literally attempting to wipe out the Christian population of an entire country. Where are the kids protesting this? he asked, criticizing the lack of mainstream media coverage and noting the absence of public outcry in the United States. Measure of anti-Christian violence in the country is already at the maximum possible, persecution watchdog says Nigeria has remained among the most dangerous places on Earth for Christians, according to Open Doors 2025 World Watch List. Of the 4,476 Christians killed for their faith worldwide during the reporting period, 3,100 (69%) were in Nigeria, according to the WWL. The measure of anti-Christian violence in the country is already at the maximum possible under World Watch List methodology, the report stated. Read: A Christian Genocide on the World's Most Christian Continent: Searching for Truth Amid the Bloodshed In the countrys northcentral zone, where Christians are more common than they are in the northeast and northwest, Islamic extremist Fulani militia attack farming communities, killing many hundreds, Christians above all, according to the report. Jihadist groups such as Boko Haram and the splinter group Islamic State in West Africa Province (ISWAP), among others, are also active in the countrys northern states, where federal government control is scant and Christians and their communities continue to be the targets of raids, sexual violence, and roadblock killings, according to the report. Abductions for ransom have increased considerably in recent years. The violence has spread to southern states, and a new jihadist terror group, Lakurawa, has emerged in the northwest, armed with advanced weaponry and a radical Islamist agenda, the WWL noted. Lakurawa is affiliated with the expansionist al-Qaeda insurgency Jamaa Nusrat ul-Islam wa al-Muslimin, or JNIM, originating in Mali. Nigeria is ranked No. 7 on the list of the 50 worst countries for Christians. This article was originally published at Christian Daily International Home News Church attendance rising after Charlie Kirk's murder, particularly among youth: Evangelism group leader Some pastors have reported seeing an increase in church attendance following the assassination of Charlie Kirk, particularly among young adults, some of whom havent attended a worship service in years. JP De Gance, the founder and president of Communio, a ministry that helps churches evangelize better and expand their outreach capacities, believes that Kirks message has inspired many young people to experience the Christian faith through a church community. [There has been] a lot of anecdotal feedback from churches in Pennsylvania, Ohio, Michigan, Illinois, and Douglas County, Colorado, reporting that theyve seen an increase [in attendance] over the last two Sundays, De Gance told The Christian Post. There's one church in Michigan that said a number of young adults who were raised in the church [but] who hadn't been there, and people hadn't seen them for years, showed back up." Communio, which serves around 400 churches nationwide, has received reports of increased attendance from various religious denominations, including Anglican, non-denominational, and Catholic churches. Speculating on why Kirks death, which was headline news worldwide, might have been the driving force to get young people to attend church, De Gance said that perhaps some began to take stock of their lives after hearing that someone within their age range had died a violent death. Many young people, especially those in their 20s, often believe that they have a long time before theyll die, De Gance explained. Kirks murder, however, appears to have caused youth throughout the country to reassess their lives and seek out a Christian community. Kirk, leader and co-founder of the conservative group Turning Point USA and TPUSA Faith, was only 31 when he was fatally shot at Utah Valley University on Sept. 10 during a Q&A with the audience just moments after he was asked about mass shootings by transgender-identifying individuals. The alleged suspect is 22-year-old Tyler Robinson. De Gance also believes that more young people are coming to know who Kirk was and what he had to say about marriage, family and living for Christ, beliefs that reportedly were the reason why Robinson targeted him. And I think that causes a level of introspection, the Communio founder told CP. I think that causes people to ask, What am I living for right now? Despite the reported spike in worship attendance at multiple churches, De Gance encourages religious leaders to implement plans to ensure that those who attended church for the first time or after a long absence continue to do so and become more involved. While churches must share the Gospel, De Gance maintained that the best way to do this is when there is a relationship of trust between the hearer and the presenter. Our message to churches is just how can we be thoughtful about creating that environment where authentic trust and community can exist, so that you can share the Gospel more effectively? he asked. The Communio founder advised churches to develop a plan for including newcomers and people returning to the church in other activities outside of worship services. For instance, some of our churches organize social activities that aren't heavily didactic for young adults. Something as simple as ultimate frisbee or kickball or something fun for people to engage in and form relationships, De Gance said. Other activities he suggested that could keep people engaged with the church and the faith community included board game nights or social events geared toward young parents. Where there's authentic person-to-person community in the context of playful fun, meaningful relationships can form. And in that context, testimony can be shared, De Gance said. In that context, you can learn somebody's own story, and people who show up at the church feel like they've gotten to know somebody, that the church is interested in them. And that they are finding a place to belong." Earlier this month, the Barna Group released data suggesting that Gen Z churchgoers attend services more frequently than their counterparts in older generations. The group obtained its data from 5,580 online interviews conducted from January through July. After examining the church attendance patterns among 3,579 churchgoing adults, the group found that the average attendance rate was 1.6 times per month. That number rose to 1.9 times per month among Gen Z. Barna also examined data collected from 132,030 U.S. adults, dating back to January 2000 and extending through July of this year, and found that monthly church attendance rates among the two youngest groups of American adults nearly doubled from 2020 to 2025. However, another analysis of church attendance from the American Bible Society's USA 2025 report found that Gen Zers are significantly less engaged with church than their older counterparts. The subgroups analyzed for the report included Gen Z, millennials born between 1982 and 1996, Gen X born between 1965 and 1981, and baby boomers and elders born in 1964 or earlier. Based on an assessment that asked respondents five questions to measure church engagement, the report found that only 35% of adult Gen Z participants agreed or strongly agreed that In the past year, I have had opportunities to learn and grow in my faith. Meanwhile, 46% of millennials, baby boomers and elders agreed or strongly agreed that they had opportunities to grow in their faith, along with 48% of Gen X respondents. Home News Gunman kills 2, wounds several others after crashing vehicle into Michigan LDS Church during worship Updated at 5:25 p.m. EDT, Sept 28, 2025: The death toll has risen to two following a shooting and an arson attack at a Mormon church in Grand Blanc Township, Michigan. Eight people were wounded and reported to be in critical condition. Authorities have also identified the 40-year-old suspect as Thomas Jacob Sanford, but have not released a motive. Original report A gunman drove his vehicle into a Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints building in suburban Grand Blanc on Sunday before opening fire on worshipers during a large service, killing one person and wounding nine others, authorities said. In a press conference Sunday afternoon, Police Chief William Renye said officers fatally shot the suspect, a 40-year-old man from Burton, Michigan, after he rammed through the front doors of the Mormon church during the worship service and began firing at congregants. He then exited his vehicle, firing several rounds at individuals within the church, Renye said at a news conference. Our officers engaged the suspect and he was killed at the scene. The gunfire sent parishioners scrambling for safety as police and emergency crews rushed to the scene about 60 miles north of Detroit. Authorities confirmed at least 10 people were struck by gunfire, including the one who died. Several remain in critical condition at local hospitals. Investigators also believe the gunman intentionally set a fire inside the LDS church. The blaze quickly spread, filling the area with smoke and making it too dangerous for first responders to conduct a full search. Officials warned the death toll from the fire could rise once crews are able to re-enter the building. We do believe that we will find additional victims once we have that scene secure, Renye said. Renye said the FBI has assigned more than 100 agents to assist with witness interviews, digital evidence and the investigation into the shooters background. Search warrants are being prepared for the suspects home and electronic records. Authorities have not released the gunmans name, and no motive has been determined. Renye said investigators were working to learn more about the weapon used, which some witnesses described as a rifle. Renye said additional updates would be provided later Sunday, at around 5 p.m. EDT, as investigators work through the crime scene. Grand Blanc is a suburb of Flint, Michigan, with a population of about 8,000. During the press conference, Grand Blanc Township Supervisor Scott Bennett called the incident heartbreaking. This kind of violence doesnt happen in our community, and we are heartbroken that it came here, Bennett said. Were going to do everything we can to support the families, the victims and our community getting through this situation. In a statement on Truth Social, President Donald Trump said he had been briefed on the situation and issued a call to prayer. I have been briefed on the horrendous shooting that took place at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc, Michigan. The FBI was immediately on scene, and will be leading the Federal Investigation, and providing full support to State and Local Officials, he wrote. Making no distinction between Christianity and Mormonism, the president added: "The suspect is dead, but there is still a lot to learn. This appears to be yet another targeted attack on Christians in the United States of America. The Trump Administration will keep the Public posted, as we always do. In the meantime, PRAY for the victims, and their families. THIS EPIDEMIC OF VIOLENCE IN OUR COUNTRY MUST END, IMMEDIATELY!" The president of the LDS church, Russell M. Nelson, died Saturday at his home in Salt Lake City, Utah. He was 101. This is a developing story, and details are expected to change as the FBI, state and local authorities carry out their investigation. Home Opinion Charlie Kirk warned us about assassination culture Charlie Kirk was right. Assassination culture, which has grown from the gaping spiritual vacuum in large parts of the West, is a profound threat to American self-government and our future as a free country. In April, Kirk posted on X what has turned out to be a sickeningly prophetic message. Assassination culture is spreading on the left. Forty-eight percent of liberals say it would be at least somewhat justified to murder Elon Musk. Fifty-five percent said the same about Donald Trump, Kirk wrote. As weve seen from some of the ongoing reactions to Kirks assassination there arent just hordes of leftists on social media (many of whom are not just random weirdos, but teachers, librarians, doctors, and professional people) who are openly celebrating his murder, but a fair number of legacy media journalists and pundits who have said that Kirk essentially had it coming. And a growing number of elected Democrats have decided that this is a moment to demonstrate who is the most ghoulish among them. Theyve shamefully signaled to their apparently bloodthirsty supporters that assassination is perhaps no big deal if the slain is on the wrong side of history. Heres the CNN interview that in part led to Minnesota Rep. Ilhan Omars censure vote. As Democrats and the broader Left lose their grip on power over American society, its seems that there will be a growing number of leftists, some deranged, some coldly calculating, but most filled with a supreme sense of self-righteousness, who simply wont let the country take another direction without violence. Weve only been fortunate that many recent assassination attempts have been unsuccessful. Make no mistake, though, what this represents in America right now is an extension of the so-called hecklers veto on college campuses. This is the assassins veto, and it is a form of ruthless tyranny at odds with the entire American political project. Instead of the American system that requires a free exchange of ideas and consent, they want to change the American political direction by violent, unilateral force. And Id argue that this period of increasing assassination attempts the idea that America can and should be changed forcefully is a continuation of the cultural revolution that began more than half a century ago. Left-wing political violence exploded in the 1960s and accelerated in the 1970s. At first there were a few assassins, like Lee Harvey Oswald, who decided to take the John Wilkes Booth path of killing influential political leaders. Most acted on their own or had less than coherent worldviews. Then, as now, mainstream liberal commentators and institutions tried to pin this violence on the Right. Oswald was a Marxist, yet journalists were able to transform the narrative about John F. Kennedys assassination into a tale about right-wing hate in Dallas. There are similar echoes in the nonsense peddled by ABC late-night host Jimmy Kimmel, formerly a comedian, that it was a member of the MAGA gang who killed Kirk and not an angry leftist in a homosexual relationship with a transgender furry. But the violence of that era of cultural revolution wasnt just being carried out by a few evil killers. Organizations and terror cells committed to various leftist and postcolonial causes proliferated. This remarkable and now somewhat forgotten period of domestic terrorism was chronicled by author Bryan Burrough in Days of Rage: Americas Radical Underground, the FBI, and the Forgotten Age of Revolutionary Violence. Groups like the Weathermen, the Symbionese Liberation Army, the FALN, the Black Liberation Army, and various other far-left organizations committed acts of terrorism around the country. As Burrough noted in his book, most of the members of these groups were seemingly normal, middle-class kids from good families who had radicalized, not too unlike Kirks alleged assassin. These groups mostly targeted institutions rather than individuals, though they clearly werent terribly concerned about the people they killed along the way. The scale of their chaos was incredible and is still underappreciated today. The violent trend hit a high point in the mid-1970s. Between 1971 and 1972, there were an estimated 2,500 domestic bombings in the United States. But this didnt last forever. It fizzled out as the country became utterly fatigued by the chaos. The political winds changed. Americans turned on Democrats, who were often quite cozy with the extremist groups. They put President Ronald Reagan in the White House. The vibe shift, at that time was very real as Reagan noted in his farewell address. In his final speech to the nation as he left the presidents office, Reagan highlighted why it had been morning again in America, but he also forewarned our re-emerging crisis. Reagan noted that the country spirit was back, it was morning again in America, but we havent re-institutionalized it. Many of the radicals who had participated in the bombings and terrorism of the 60s and 70s were rewarded for what they had done with sinecures and tenures at prominent universities. Their prior lives as domestic terrorists were whitewashed. They were laying the groundwork for a reenergized cultural revolution that had only been half-completed. Thats what America, and the broader West, is up against. Assassination culture on the Left isnt going away until we fix the root problems at the heart of our country. The issue is not just a few radicals willing to do incredible acts of evil and violence. Its a much larger cultural cesspool that is encouraging these people to act on their homicidal impulses. So, a clear takeaway from recent events is that unity isnt enough. The country simply wont come together after 9/10 as it did after 9/11. If America is going to heal itself, it needs a genuine revival of faith, a return to the foundational ideas that create a society of good health and character, as Kirk wanted. Thats the project we, the living, must continue if we want to see assassination culture defeated and our nation restored. Originally published at The Daily Signal. Home Opinion Riots or revival? George Floyd, Charlie Kirk and America The contrast couldnt be more severe: Two martyrs, two causes. One died for the religion of social justice, the other for the Gospel of Jesus Christ. America now stands at a crossroads. Which path will we choose: The broad path that leads to chaos and destruction, or the narrow path that leads to peace and life? On one side, you have the death of George Floyd. Within 24 hours of the video going viral, nationwide protests erupted. Students walked out of classrooms. Crowds poured into the streets. City blocks went up in flames. Businesses were ransacked. Stores looted. Police officers, in many cases, stood down and watched as precincts were burned to the ground. And Floyd wasnt the only flashpoint. In Ferguson, Missouri, the death of Michael Brown sparked weeks of violent rioting, leaving entire neighborhoods scorched. In Kenosha, Wisconsin, the police shooting of Jacob Blake ignited nights of arson and looting, culminating in chaos that left the city smoldering. In each case, Americans were told to understand the destruction as the voice of the oppressed. Politicians bent over backward to excuse the lawlessness, even pledging to bail out masked agitators who turned cities into war zones. Lives were lost in the name of justice. And when the flames werent enough, activists decided to go further. They declared entire neighborhoods autonomous zones police-free utopias where oppression was supposed to vanish and a new society would flourish. The same voices behind the riots called for defunding the police. And what did that bring? More chaos. More crime. More death. Neighborhoods left vulnerable. Families abandoned. Chaos parading as justice. The death of a true martyr Now set that against what followed the assassination of Charlie Kirk. He was murdered for daring to give the biggest microphone not to his friends but to those who opposed him. He welcomed debate. He confronted hostile ideas head-on. He refused to be silenced by intimidation. And for that, he paid with his life. But look at the fruit that followed his death. No buildings burned. No businesses looted. No cities reduced to ash. Instead, only candles burned vigil candles, lifted high in memory of a man who gave his life for truth. People gathered in churches. Prayers rose instead of Molotov cocktails. Instead of mobs demanding blood, thousands made decisions to follow Christ. Politicians who would never publicly declare the name of Jesus suddenly spoke openly about the need for the Gospel. Instead of excuses for lawlessness, there were testimonies of salvation. And yet after Charlies death all of the cowards found their courage. The very people who shrank from confronting him in debate while he lived now slander him when he cannot answer. They spit on his memory because they could not withstand his arguments. They malign his character because they could not overcome his convictions. Their attacks reveal not strength, but weakness. Not courage, but cowardice. It is difficult not to see the parallel with Stephen, the first Christian martyr. In Acts 6 and 7, Stephen stood before the religious leaders of his day and make no mistake, progressivism is a worldly religion and he proclaimed the truth with boldness. Scripture records that they could not withstand the wisdom and the Spirit with which he was speaking (Acts 6:10, ESV). And when they could not defeat his arguments, they killed him. So it is with Charlie. When the world could not overcome his courage, when they could not silence his voice in life, they silenced him in death. But like Stephen, his testimony will outlive his assassins. His words will echo longer than their slander. His life will bear fruit that their hatred cannot erase. Two different spirits What explains this radical difference? On one hand, you have a spirit of rage. A spirit that justifies destruction as expression. A spirit that sees justice as vengeance. That spirit has turned too many American cities into ruins. On the other hand, you have the Spirit of God. A Spirit that produces repentance instead of riots. Worship instead of war. Candles instead of chaos. When the world lost Charlie Kirk, a true martyr, the response revealed something deeper something eternal. The battle lines of our culture are not political but spiritual. The evidence could not be more clear. The Apostle Paul reminds us that we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness (Ephesians 6:12, ESV). What we are seeing is not merely two different sets of political responses, but two different kingdoms on display. One kingdom demands chaos and calls it justice. The other Kingdom meets tragedy with truth, grace, and hope in Christ. Which one will define the future of this nation? History teaches us that rage consumes itself. Cities burned in Ferguson and Kenosha are still rebuilding years later. Families who lost businesses in Minneapolis never recovered. Violence devours its own. But the fruits of the Spirit endure. Out of Charlie Kirks death, lives are being changed forever. The Gospel is advancing. The Church is awakening. The call to Christians The contrast forces every Christian to make a choice. Will we be swept into the mobs logic that vengeance and destruction are the only way forward? Or will we align ourselves with the way of the cross the way of sacrifice, prayer, and truth proclaimed without fear? The stakes are high. What America witnessed in the days after George Floyds death and the days after Charlie Kirks assassination is the clash of worldviews, the collision of kingdoms. One worldview justifies destruction in the name of oppression. The other proclaims that true freedom is found only in Christ. One kingdom burns buildings. The other lights candles. Conclusion: Riots or revival? The Charlie Kirk Memorial last Sunday was not just a gathering. It was a glimpse into the kind of nation we could be if truth, courage, and the Gospel were once again at the center of public life. It was a reminder that even in death, the witness of one faithful man can ignite a movement more powerful than any protest. The flames of rage consume cities. The flames of faith light the world. The choice is clear: Riots or revival? Chaos or christ? And for those who havent seen the Charlie Kirk Memorial, hear this from someone who was there in person: No video could capture the palpable power in that room. Politician after politician rose not to promote themselves but to proclaim Christs Gospel. Testimonies poured out of the life Charlie lived, giving himself to students across this country, loving his wife and children faithfully, and modeling what it means to live for something greater than yourself, what it means to truly submit and boldly follow Christ Jesus our Lord. The video screens could show faces but not the depth of what we felt inside that hall. The sheer number of people. The dignitaries. The everyday Americans. All united as we sang, listened, cried, mourned, and celebrated our friend Charlie Kirk. I cannot remember a time when I was more inspired to tell the truth, to oppose the lies, and to stand for Christ more boldly and I am now wasting no time in doing so. Weve all got work to do. Weve got a civilization to save. We have a King to proclaim, Jesus Christ. So Charlie, rest in Heaven well take it from here. Originally published at the Standing for Freedom Center. Beijing (Gasgoo)- On Sept. 26, automotive computing solution supplier Black Sesame Technologies signed a strategic cooperation agreement with Chery Commercial Vehicle and China Pacific Property Insurance Co., Ltd. (CPPIC). The three parties will jointly explore a "technology + insurance" innovation model, aiming to link advanced driver assistance technologies with insurance underwriting to reduce risk and provide premium benefits for new energy commercial vehicles Signing ceremony; photo credit: Black Sesame Technologies Under the plan, the partners will build an integrated service framework covering technical support, offline management, and online data analysis. Black Sesame Technologies will supply its PA2.0 commercial vehicle active safety system across Chery's Karry new energy vehicle lineup. The PA2.0 system is the first domain controller solution in the commercial vehicle sector to integrate AEBS, ADAS, BSD, and DMS functions into one modular platform, powered by Black Sesame Technologies' Huashan A1000 chip. It offers high reliability, low latency, and strong scalability. Field data indicates that vehicles equipped with the system can reduce accident rates by over 70% and major accidents by more than 80%. Black Sesame Technologies will also provide full-cycle technical services, including supply, calibration, installation, warranty, and platform operation. Chery Commercial Vehicle will coordinate offline management through its mature channel network, while CPPIC will use its digital analytics to better assess risks and optimize insurance services. The cooperation will begin with pilot projects in at least three provincial-level regions before scaling nationwide. In Sept. 18 remarks to state college and university trustees, Gov. Mike DeWine warned of the need for intensified student recruitment, including to keep talented students from attending college in other states. The governor cited population declines as a source of his concerns while praising an environment on campus that respects ideas. But if DeWine was so worried about declining Ohio college enrollment, why didnt he urge a focus on countering that, and maybe some legislative restraint, regarding last sessions Senate Bill 1 -- a sweeping measure impacting the states colleges and universities. SB 1 did aim to uphold the rights of all students to propound unpopular views, and the need for faculty not to impose their political opinions. But some critics saw the bill as less about free speech on campus and more about costly state legislative micromanagement. Moreover, at least one out-of-state university saw the new law as a marketing opportunity. In early July, just days after SB 1 took effect June 27, Eastern Michigan University cited the legislation in an ad campaign seeking to lure Ohio students to its campus in Ypsilanti with the added promise of in-state tuition for Ohioans. So how does our Editorial Board Roundtable see DeWines concerns as they relate to the SB 1 law? Leila Atassi, manager public interest and advocacy: Gov. DeWine tells trustees to recruit harder, but hes the one making Ohios campuses less appealing. By signing Senate Bill 1, he gutted shared governance, shuttered diversity, equity and inclusion support, imposed costly mandates and signaled that politicians decide what can be taught. Moves like that inevitably drive away the students and faculty Ohio most needs to keep if it hopes to thrive. Enrollment wont grow where academic freedom is under siege. Ted Diadiun, columnist: Heres an idea: Instead of wringing our hands over other universities efforts to disparage the newfound freedoms in Ohio, why not use SB 1 as our own recruiting tool: Tired of being forced to parrot your professors left-wing views? Cross the border to freedom, where you are able to express your opinions and discuss your viewpoints without fear of being embarrassed in class or punished when your grades come out! Eric Foster, columnist: DeWines statements are an example of incoherent politics. He seems to frame a college education as desirable, yet the Republican Party has plainly turned away from college education. Over the last two decades, polls show the GOP has gone from doing better among college graduates and worse among those without college degrees to the exact inverse. SB 1 is merely a result of that shift. You cannot gain college students while vilifying the institution. Victor Ruiz, editorial board member: SB 1 was never about strengthening higher education; it was a politically motivated attack on diversity, equity, and inclusion. Instead of making Ohios colleges stronger, DeWine and the Ohio GOP have made them less competitive. This, like many of their decisions, shows a lack of foresight and has left Ohioans worse off. Politics over people has become the norm, and these are the consequences. Mary Cay Doherty, editorial board member: Higher educations ideologues have smothered open inquiry, peddled indoctrination, strangled ideological diversity, and quelled free speech. SB 1 blessedly returned state schools to their mission and gave them a chance to remain viable and relevant. Unfortunately, demographics are destiny, and the higher education market faces a major correction that will include discounting tuition and slashing operating costs. Even still, amid the fierce competition for students, many schools will close. Elizabeth Sullivan, opinion director: The ultimate irony of SB 1 is that, under the pretense of trying to support students free political expression on campus, the law actually stifles it. Its wheelbarrow full of new requirements is changing the rich and open college experience most students (and faculty) want to one constrained by legislative pencil-pushers focused on reports and recriminations, not rewards. No wonder Ohios once-lauded institutions of higher education face intensified recruitment problems. Have something to say about this topic? * Send a letter to the editor, which will be considered for print publication. * Email general questions about our editorial board or comments or corrections on this Editorial Board Roundtable to Elizabeth Sullivan, director of opinion, at esullivan@cleveland.com SEATTLE -- Ohio States game on the recruiting trail took place a few days before the Buckeyes went west to face Washington on the field. The Buckeyes offered cornerback Rahsjon Duncan, a three-star from California. And, as it just so happens, Duncan is a Washington commit who was in attendance at Husky Stadium on Saturday. It was an offer for Duncan, the No. 464 overall prospect in the 247Sports composite, that came on the heels of offers from Georgia, Oregon and Colorado. Ohio State was the latest, and it came at a unique time to do so. Duncan, though, is just one of a handful of players that Ohio State is trying to bring into the 2026 class at cornerback. Right now, the Buckeyes have Jordan Thomas as the lone pledge in a three-man defensive backfield with safeties Blaine Bradford and Simeon Caldwell. At a minimum, Ohio State needs at least one more cornerback in the class. The Buckeyes went into flip mode last year and signed Jordyn Woods to pair with Devin Sanchez. Naeem Offord flipped from the Buckeyes to Oregon at the last moment, leaving Ohio State with just two, and increasing the emphasis on adding three. So, who is on the table? Ohio State recently offered Khmari Bing, a three-star Maryland commit who attends powerhouse St. Frances Academy in Baltimore. Pulling him out of his home state team will be tough, but its an option. Hell take an official visit on Oct. 4 against Minnesota. The Buckeyes offered Jay Timmons, a four-star Florida State commit from Pennsylvania. Hes the No. 161 overall prospect in the 2026 class. Could the Buckeyes attempt to get back into the mix for Danny Odem, who committed to Nebraska? Or Justice Fitzpatrick, who committed to Georgia? Possibly. Ohio State was involved in both recruitments beforehand. In any case, whether Ohio State is able to flip a top 100 recruit or a more long-term project like Woods from a year ago, the Buckeyes certainly need more depth at the cornerback spot than theyve currently got in the 2026 class. Thomas has all the makings of a solid, talented cornerback that can do a lot for Walton and the secondary. But he cant be the only recruit in the class. Theres no reason to believe that Walton and the Buckeyes wont find that corner, but now, its about finding the right target. Beijing (Gasgoo)- On Sept. 26, VOYAH, the premium new energy vehicle brand under Dongfeng Motor, held the global debut of its flagship SUV, the VOYAH Taishan, and officially opened pre-orders. Customers placing a 2,000-yuan deposit will receive a 5,000-yuan discount at delivery along with two lifetime free service benefits. Photo credit: VOYAH With the launch of the Taishan, VOYAH completes its "three-flagship" lineup alongside the DREAM MPV and Passion L sedan. Named after China's Mount Tai, the SUV reflects VOYAH's design ethos of fusing natural landscapes with architectural inspiration to redefine "Chinese luxury" in the full-size SUV segment. The Taishan is built on VOYAH's Lanhai intelligent hybrid system. The setup integrates an 800V high-voltage platform, 5C ultra-fast charging, and a standard 65-kWh battery pack. It delivers up to 370 km CLTC pure-electric range and over 1,400 km combined range. For intelligence, the Taishan comes with Huawei's top-level ADS4 smart driving solution, featuring four LiDAR sensors and Level 3 automated driving capability to handle complex scenarios. Ride comfort is enhanced by a triple-chamber air suspension with EDC "magic carpet" function for millisecond-level road adaptation. A 16 rear-wheel steering system gives the large SUV an ultra-tight 5.4 m turning radius, balancing commanding presence with agile handling. The United Nations reinstated an arms embargo and other sanctions on Iran on Saturday (September 27) following a process triggered by key European powers that Tehran has warned will be met with a harsh response.Britain, France and Germany triggered the return of sanctions on Iran at the UN Security Council over accusations the country has violated a 2015 deal that aimed to stop it developing a nuclear bomb. Iran denies seeking nuclear weapons.The end of the decade-long nuclear deal originally agreed by Iran, Britain, Germany, France, the United States, Russia and China is likely to exacerbate tensions in the Middle East, just months after Israel and the US bombed Iranian nuclear sites.UN sanctions imposed by the Security Council in resolutions adopted between 2006 and 2010 were reinstated at 8 pm EDT Saturday (0000 GMT). Attempts to delay the return of all sanctions on Iran failed on the sidelines of the annual gathering of world leaders at the UN this week."We urge Iran and all states to abide fully by these resolutions," the foreign ministers of France, Britain and Germany said in a joint statement after the deadline passed.Tehran has warned of a harsh response. But Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian said on Friday (September 26) that Iran had no intention of leaving the Non-Proliferation Treaty. Iran said on Saturday (September 27) it was recalling its ambassadors to Britain, France and Germany for consultations.Russia has disputed the return of UN sanctions on Iran."It is unlawful, and it cannot be implemented," Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov told reporters at the UN earlier on Saturday (September 27), adding that he had written to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warning that it would be "a major mistake" for him to acknowledge a return of UN sanctions on Iran.The UN Security Council website was swiftly updated on Saturday (September 27) evening to reflect the return to sanctions.The European powers had offered to delay reinstating sanctions for up to six months to allow space for talks on a long-term deal if Iran restored access for UN nuclear inspectors, addressed concerns about its stock of enriched uranium, and engaged in talks with the United States."Our countries will continue to pursue diplomatic routes and negotiations. The reimposition of UN sanctions is not the end of diplomacy," the foreign ministers of Britain, France and Germany said. "We urge Iran to refrain from any escalatory action and to return to compliance with its legally binding safeguards obligations."US President Donald Trump has been clear that diplomacy is still an option for Iran and a deal remains the best outcome for the Iranian people and the world, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said in a statement after the UN sanctions were reimposed."For that to happen, Iran must accept direct talks, held in good faith, without stalling or obfuscation," he said, stressing that until there was a new deal it was important that countries implemented sanctions "immediately in order to pressure Iran's leaders to do what is right for their nation, and best for the safety of the world."Iran's economy is already struggling with crippling US sanctions reimposed since 2018 after Trump ditched the pact during his first term.Iran's rial currency continued to decline over fears of new sanctions. The rial fell to 1,123,000 per US dollar, a new record low, on Saturday (September 27), from about 1,085,000 on Friday (September 26), according to foreign exchange websites, including Bon-bast.com.With the return of UN sanctions, Iran will again be subjected to an arms embargo and a ban on all uranium enrichment and reprocessing activities and any activity related to ballistic missiles capable of delivering nuclear weapons, including launches.Other sanctions to be reimposed include a travel ban on dozens of Iranian individuals, an asset freeze on dozens of Iranian individuals and entities and a ban on the supply of anything that could be used in Iran's nuclear program.All countries are authorized to seize and dispose of any items banned under UN sanctions and Iran will be prohibited from acquiring an interest in any commercial activity in another country involving uranium mining, production or use of nuclear materials and technology. Sitcom reunions in the form of made-for-TV movies are tried-and-true ratings grabbers, but few were as ambitious and strange as 2004s The Dick Van Dyke Show Revisited. Its a special that combined actors playing beloved characters, actors playing themselves and actors dancing with their animated doppelgangers, all capped off by Ray Romano getting busy with Mary Tyler Moore. What more could you ask for? The special grew out of a Carl Reiner quip delivered during a Dick Van Dyke Show reunion on TV Land. We could do a show with these people, Reiner joked, and it didnt take long for someone to sign off on the suggestion. The next day I got a call from CBS, Reiner told the Los Angeles Times. It was an offhand remark, but offhand remarks are sometimes the best remarks you make. Heres the shows plot: Alan Brady (Reiner) loved Rob Petries (Van Dyke) eulogies for deceased Alan Brady Show staffers Buddy Sorrell (Morey Amsterdam) and Mel Cooley (Richard Deacon). Brady offers big bucks to Rob and Sally Rogers (Rose Marie) for a reunion at which they can write their old boss eulogy while hes still around to approve it. (The writers eventually reject the idea as too creepy.) Don't Miss The reunion reveals what happened to the Dick Van Dyke Show characters in the 40 years since we last saw them: Rob and Laura: Americas favorite sitcom couple sold their New Rochelle home and moved to New York City, where Laura now runs her own dance studio. Rob has given up writing for a career in computer 3D animation, a real-life hobby of Dick Van Dykes. Ritchie Petrie: Rob and Lauras son (Larry Mathews) is moving from Portland back to New Rochelle in fact, he just bought his parents old home. What does he do? All we know is he works for a company that transferred him back to New York. Sally Rogers: Woohoo Sally finally convinced long-time beau Herman Glimscher (Bill Idelson) to marry her. She now lives in suburban bliss, with Herman cooking up a storm when he isnt slapping her on the behind. Advertisement Millie Helper: The Petries old neighbor (Ann Morgan Guilbert) was a widow after losing her husband, Jerry, but shes dating again. Weirdly, her new boyfriend is Robs brother, Stacey Petrie (Dicks brother, Jerry Van Dyke). While most of The Dick Van Dyke Show Returns takes place in character, its final segment features Van Dyke and Moore as themselves, dressed in formal attire. They marvel over how much has changed their house is now in color, and a king-sized bed has replaced the two twins that network censors required in the 1960s. They watch a few more clips from the old show before breaking into dance, a routine that culminates with Moore spinning out of Van Dykes arms, out the front door and toppling an unseen Romano (then the king of CBS sitcoms). Van Dyke first apologizes, then reprimands the off-screen Romano. Hey, Ray, get off of her! Mind your business! shouts Romano. I've been dreaming of this since I was 8. The show ends with Moores pleasured cry: Oh, Ray! Why does the world place such trust in China regarding climate governance?: Global Times editorial Global Times) 10:04, September 28, 2025 Illustration: Chen Xia/GT Chinese President Xi Jinping delivered video remarks to the United Nations Climate Summit on Wednesday, announcing China's new round of Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) - China will, by 2035, reduce economy-wide net greenhouse gas emissions by 7 percent to 10 percent from peak levels, striving to do better. Against the backdrop of severe challenges facing global climate cooperation, China's solemn commitment demonstrates the firm commitment of a responsible major country, strongly boosting global confidence in tackling climate issues and injecting new momentum into international climate governance. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres had highly praised China's plan, emphasizing that it is "extremely important" for climate action. President Xi proposed a systematic "1+3+3" framework - one overarching target, three quantitative indicators (the share of non-fossil fuels in total energy consumption, the installed capacity of wind and solar power and the total forest stock volume), and three qualitative indicators (to make new energy vehicles the mainstream in the sales of new vehicles, expand the National Carbon Emissions Trading Market to cover major high-emission sectors and basically establish a climate adaptive society). This is the first time China has put forward an absolute emission reduction target covering economy-wide net greenhouse gases. The new goal not only fulfills its international responsibilities but also serves the strategic needs of China's high-quality development and Chinese modernization. It is pragmatic, systematic, and highly actionable - a plan designed to deliver real results. Public opinion widely regards this as a critical leap in China's institutional framework for climate governance. The international community has warmly welcomed China's latest announcement. UN climate chief Simon Stiell noted that China has "a long and impressive record of meeting and surpassing its targets for climate change and clean energy." The BBC described China's new reduction target as a "landmark pledge," while The Economist observed that China's "modest climate goals have been followed by considerable overachievement." Developing countries have also been encouraged. The Indian Express reported that "after a year of disappointments, during which climate action was pushed lower on the list of priorities for countries worldwide, some forward movement has finally begun on the climate change front in the last few days." Why does the world trust China's promises so deeply? This stems from China's consistent fulfillment of its commitments. Tackling climate change is a long-term and complex endeavor that tests not only a country's national governance capacity, but also its resolve and determination. China has always been one of the most determined, effective and results-oriented countries in fulfilling its emission reduction pledges. Over the past decade, China not only met its 2030 goals for wind and solar power capacity and forest stock volume ahead of schedule but also established the largest and most complete new energy industrial chain in the world. China's production and sales of new energy vehicles have ranked first globally for years, with its pace of electrification far outstripping that of Europe and the US. By leveraging industrial scale and supply chain advantages, China has driven down the costs of green technologies, making clean energy more accessible and affordable worldwide. The weight of China's climate commitment must also be understood against the broader context of global climate governance. This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Paris Agreement, as well as the deadline for countries to submit new rounds of NDCs. Yet the US has twice announced its withdrawal from the Paris Agreement and even prated on about "clean, beautiful coal" at the UN. Many of Europe's once-ambitious climate goals have been abandoned or remain unfulfilled, and climate issues are regrettably becoming politicized. Sharp divides between developed and developing countries can be seen on the crucial question of climate finance. These all continue to erode confidence in collective action. Global climate cooperation now stands at a crossroads where failure to advance means falling back. Against this backdrop, it is only natural that the new commitment from a responsible major country would attract worldwide attention. Recent international surveys conducted by several Western consulting firms highlight a clear trend: China's global favorability is steadily rising, and its principles and practices as a responsible major country in global governance are being recognized by more and more people around the world. From its credibility in emission reductions - "keeping its word and acting on it" - to its proposals and implementation of the four global initiatives, China has been a steady source of certainty and security for the world. This confidence stems from China's sense of responsibility as a major power and its vision of building a community with a shared future for humanity. The world can trust China, and this trust is becoming increasingly tangible. Climate change is a challenge shared by all humanity, and should be a bridge for cooperation, not a tool of confrontation. China's tangible contributions to climate action, together with its proven record as a responsible major country, testify to its unwavering commitment to multilateralism and to building a community with a shared future for humanity. No matter how international circumstances may change, China will continue to honor the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities and build a clean, beautiful and sustainable world together with other countries. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) About a decade and a half ago I was diagnosed with generalised anxiety disorder by a clinical psychologist. I had gone to my doctor for help with a variety of symptoms: insomnia, hair loss, brain fog, headaches, a general listlessness and feeling of dread. I was struggling to sleep at night but desperate to curl up on the sofa during the day. I found ordinary, everyday tasks such as getting the kids up in the morning, or even just showering and dressing, overwhelming. I wore the same black clothes, day in, day out. Everything ached. I struggled to concentrate and forgot everything. Simple tasks such as remembering to tax the car or paying a bill would send me into a tailspin. I felt like the sky was falling, the walls closing in. And the worst part was, I had no idea why. There was no earthly justification for it. I had two lovely children, a great job, a sympathetic, successful husband and a glamorous, well-connected social life. I was hanging out with movie stars, princes and prime ministers, my mantelpiece was groaning with coveted invitations and yet in my head I was an abject failure. But thats the nature of the beast: mental illness is not a rational condition, nor is it easily understood by those who have never experienced it. And it manifests in a myriad of ways, for any number of different reasons. I was prescribed antidepressants, which I didnt want to take. Like many of my generation I was brought up to believe that taking pills was a sign of weakness. Even a paracetamol was considered a bit of a cop-out, let alone the antidepressants I was given. Sarah Vine 'felt like the sky was falling, the walls closing in' and had no idea why. Then she was diagnosed with generalised anxiety disorder Again, I worried that taking them would make me a failure, and that they would affect my ability to... well, be me. Then again, I hated me. So I took them and they worked. By which I mean they muffled my head noise sufficiently to allow me some mental clarity. They dulled other things too, but that seemed like a price worth paying. They were a crutch that allowed me to get back up on my feet again. I was grateful. More importantly, I was able to function. You see, for me simply not functioning was not an option. I did not have the luxury of checking out, no matter how much I wanted to. It wasnt just that there were too many people relying on me not least my children, who deserved a functioning mother (it broke my heart a couple of years ago when, talking about that time, my son recalled that he just assumed all mothers spent half the day in bed) but I also knew that if I gave in to this thing it would consume me. Hard as it was and there were times when it felt like I was climbing K2 I knew I needed the routine of family life, the interaction with friends and, above all, the challenges of work. They were the things that got me out of bed in the morning. Without them I would have sunk deeper into the abyss. That is why the news last week that a record number of people 650,000 according to data for July, and growing at a rate of 250 per day are now claiming disability benefits for anxiety, is for me so worrying. Anxiety and depression in general is not a disability, its a disorder. Its not the same as, for example, having learning difficulties. It can be treated and even overcome. But you cant do that if youre paid to stay at home. Alas Vine & Hitchens: What's the big idea? Get the Mail's new politics podcast, hosted by columnists Sarah Vine and Peter Hitchens - wherever you listen to podcasts now. Of course, if someone is in the acute stage of mental illness, they may need a period of financial support. And there are some psychiatric patients who are genuinely too ill to hold down a job. But when it comes to anxiety, the more you give into it, the more it eats away at you. Its a vicious cycle that can steal your life away. Having a purpose whether its dependants, a job, even just a dog that needs walking twice a day (in my case all of the above) is crucial, and often a big part of the cure. After all, the last thing someone suffering from acute anxiety needs is more time to dwell on things, more time to catastrophise and fret or, in the case of todays digital world, disappear down internet rabbit holes or entertain mad conspiracy theories. You cant treat this countrys mental health struggles by encouraging people to just give up. That way true madness lies. By all means offer support but do it in the form of medication, therapy, other treatments and by tackling the root causes of peoples problems, be they societal breakdown, drug abuse, sub-standard education or lack of opportunity. Just throwing cash at people and hoping theyll work it out is just about the worst thing you can do not to mention a hopelessly defeatist policy. Everyone I have known who has struggled with anxiety and depression including myself has only ever wanted to feel normal again. The best way to do that is to become a functioning, useful member of the human race. And that does not mean being incentivised to sit on the sofa and do nothing with the rest of your life. Get up, get dressed, get out there and get on with it. Its never easy, I understand that, but with the right help and support it is possible. Trust me, its better than the alternative. Disgrace of NHS doctor's rants How is it possible that an NHS doctor who openly celebrated the October 7 attacks and praised two terrorists who attacked a bus in Jerusalem remains in her public sector job? Dr Rahmeh Aladwan has been allowed to keep her job, despite a string of tweets ranting about 'Jewish supremacy' The General Medical Council had sought a suspension for Dr Rahmeh Aladwan, a trainee trauma and orthopaedics surgeon, but the Medical Practitioners Tribunal Service rejected this request on Thursday. In Aladwans statement on X, formerly Twitter, she doubled down, saying that Hamas should be de-proscribed and ranted about Jewish supremacy. She claims that she is merely exercising her right to free speech, but her views are clearly racist. Such an individual should not be in receipt of a taxpayer-funded salary or anywhere near a hospital where Jewish patients might seek treatment, for that matter. Chilling. Good of Wayne Rooney to acknowledge his wife Coleens role in keeping him on the straight and narrow. I honestly believe if she werent there, Id be dead, he said. How many partners could say that but are too proud to admit it? Trust me: it never hurts to recognise these things. Lustrous Lumley is just fab No wonder the King invited her to Balmoral: there is no one more fabulously British than Joanna Lumley A hilarious survey has revealed the nations favourite obsessions, with the Royal Family topping the list. Also on it are the weather, dogs, gravy and biscuits (the holy trinity of family life). Sadly, my own obsession is not on there: Joanna Lumley. Charm, grace, beauty, a sense of humour and (Im told) generous to a fault. No wonder the King invited her to Balmoral: there is no one more fabulously British than Joanna. And the award for attention-seeking killjoy of the year goes to no, not Greta Thunberg, but the ex-wife of Colin Firth, eco-fashion campaigner Livia Firth, who tore up her MBE in protest at what she called Britains appeasement of Donald Trump. One does slightly feel for poor Colin. My failure as a roasty hostess I asked friends to join me and the kids on holiday. One night, they made supper and produced roast potatoes so delicious theres been talk of nothing else since. I tried to emulate them and the look of disappointment on my progenys faces was lacerating. Never invite culinary geniuses away! Search for Alas Vine & Hitchens on Apple, Spotify and wherever you get your podcasts now. New episode released every Wednesday. On a defensive day, Labours conference lurched from the sentimental to the sullen. One moment the hall was weeping about the 1989 Hillsborough disaster as a community choir, all the more affecting for its occasional off-key note, sang Youll Never Walk Alone. Minutes later, Anas Sarwar, the partys leader in Scotland, was telling Nigel Farage you are a pathetic, poisonous little man. Reform bashing was everywhere. It cheered up the delegates. Charlatans, snake-oil salesmen, peddlers of division and hatred: these were but some of the insults hurled at Mr Farages brigade. Then Jo Stevens, Welsh Secretary, went for the big one. They cant even, she gasped, spell Caerphilly! Lady Morgan, first minister of Wales, possibly went even further but she did so in the Welsh language. The Liverpool audience boggled a bit. Her ladyship, closing her handbag: You can clap that. Which they obediently did, despite not having understood a syllable. The day began with Sir Keir Starmer vouchsafing an interview to Laura Kuenssberg of the BBC. She was rough with him. How much trouble are you in? And: Whats Andy Burnham up to? Sir Keirs left toecap started whizzing like a propeller. His eyeballs thrashed in their sockets. He did that Bill Nighy thing with his lips. He was, by his standards, jolly, jolly cross. He has reached the nobody understands me stage of his development. It happens to most tormented geniuses when the public fails to appreciate their genius. Shouting over Laura repeatedly, he snapped that Reform was immoral and racist. And he scoffed at Nigel Farages current standing in the polls, saying that politics is not a popularity contest. Actually, that is precisely what elections are. I just need the space to get on! cried Sir Keir in an exasperated tone. Questions touched briefly on a 20,000 field he bought for his late mother towards the end of her life, when she was in a wheelchair. It was for her donkeys. Keir Starmer appearing on BBC's Sunday With Laura Kuenssberg in Liverpool on Sunday She loved her donkeys, said Sir Keir, and tears formed in his eyes. I was feeling pretty watery myself. What an emotional roller-coaster politics is. But Kuenssbergs as tough as biltong and within a trice she was back to Sir Keirs party-management difficulties, asking: What if the problem is you? Sir Keir, still recovering from the donkeys moment, said this was no time for navel-glazing. We need to know more about navel-glazing. A coffin was left at the conference gates by protesting farmers. They and the Palestinian rights mob were soon squaring up to one another. Rural beef versus green-haired vegans. My money was on the farmers. The Aussie PM, Anthony Albanese, made a speech. A smooth sorta Bruce with the yellowish complexion of an American newsreader. I saw stewards blocking Brian Leishman MP from the hall. Mr Leishman is no friend of the Starmerites. Ministers paid tribute to colleagues who were sacked in the reshuffle. We were asked to remember Dame Nia Griffith, who was vaporised from the Welsh Office. It sounded as if Nia had left this world, not just lost her job. Ellie Reeves, more capable sister of Rachel, chaired the first session of the day. This was awkward, for she was recently demoted by Sir Keir. Ellie, valiantly sunny, kept saying incredibly. Dougie Alexander drawled thanks to Ian Murray, whom he knifed (sorry, I mean succeeded) as Secretary of State for Scotland. Dougie has been around so long, he is starting to resemble a David Cameron waxwork effigy left out in the sun. And then another touching cameo. The partys new general secretary, Hollie Ridley had just unburdened herself of a long rant about Reform this conference is obsessed with Farage when she went all drippy-voiced and asked the conference to spare a thought for a stigmatised minority: millionaire political donors. They are driven by the same things as us, she cooed. A desire to deliver positive change in the world and we are very lucky to have them. Given their poll ratings and this infighting, they certainly are. What's in a name? Well, for most parents, the task of giving their baby the perfect moniker is a daunting challenge. These days, there seems to be an overflowing of unique and rare names. Between A-list stars and social media influencers, the days of giving your child something classic to go by seem long gone. Now, names such as Onyx and Atlas - and we can't forget when Gwyneth Paltrow and Chris Martin named their daughter Apple - are rising in popularity. But perhaps what's more important than having a trendy name is choosing one that holds a deeper meaning. After all, a name is often the first thing we learn about a person, and research has shown it can influence how we perceive others, even before getting to know them. For example, a 2014 study at UC Irvine found that, regardless of nationality and language spoken, people trust strangers with names they deem easier-to-pronounce more than those with names that are difficult for them to pronounce. Another 2018 study from Cornell University, which set to find out the 'gender bias of names,' found its male and female participants were more than twice as likely to call male professionals - even fictional ones - by their last name only, compared to equivalent female professionals. These researchers determined that when the male professionals were referred to only by their last name, they were perceived as more important than the women, who were referred to by their first and last names. Baby name consultant Colleen Slagen reveals the names most likely to have a successful career Nevertheless, the list of most popular baby names in the US has remained relatively unchanged in the last two decades. The Social Security Administration has been tracking the most popular baby names each year, with data dating back to 1880. According to the SSA, the name 'Olivia' has continued to hold the number one spot for most popular girl names for six consecutive years, while 'Liam' has been the most popular boy name for eight years in a row. There's truly an endless amount of options when it comes to the perfect name. As such, consultant Colleen Slagen has made a career out of advising soon-to-be parents on finding the baby names that are perfect for their little one. The names most likely to have a successful career According to Slagen, the names most likely to have a successful career are Walker, Henry, James, Mateo, Caroline, Elizabeth, Camila and Lenore. While Slagen acknowledged there's truly no telling whether your child will be successful based simply on their name, she explained that people often think of 'classic' names like these as having a 'polished, formal or professional feel to them.' A 2011 study found that people with simple and easy-to-pronounce names were viewed more favorably than those with complex or unique names These names are timeless and never go out of style, as opposed to more 'informal' or 'ultra-modern' names like Rainbow and Clover, which she said 'don't feel as serious.' Poll Would you give your baby a traditional or unique name? Traditional Unique Would you give your baby a traditional or unique name? Traditional 7648 votes Unique 1558 votes Now share your opinion The most 'old money' names Names are always falling in and out of fashion, but one of the most recent trends increasing in popularity are names that match an 'old money' aesthetic. The term 'old money' typically refers to the mega rich families of the 19th and 20th centuries, such as the Rockefellers and the Vanderbilts. These names, usually passed down to family members of different generations, represent the specific air of classiness and chic timelessness often prescribed to 'old money' families at the time. According to Slagen, 'elaborate, fancy family surnames as well as classic names with a long history of use that aren't overly common' typically fall under this category. 'Literary and historical references can absolutely contribute to a name feeling refined or "old money,"' she added. These names include Georgianna, Beatrice, Vivienne, Rosalind, Cordelia, Philippa, Lawrence, Hamilton, Carlisle and Calloway. According to Slagen, Rome, Leonardo, Rafael, Sebastian, Everett, Jude, Juliette, Esme, Celeste and Margot are the most romantic-sounding names that will easily make others fall in love The names most likely to make people fall in love with you Rome, Leonardo, Rafael, Sebastian, Everett, Jude, Juliette, Esme, Celeste and Margot are the most romantic-sounding names that will easily make others fall in love, Slagen said. 'For girls, I think ultra-feminine, soft-sounding and chic names invoke a romantic feel.' For boys, names such as August and Miles also 'sound sweet and gentle.' The naming expert pointed out that some of these monikers draw inspiration from classic romantic references, like William Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet. The next 'Olivia' and 'Liam' For some parents, it is important to consider when choosing a name if their kid will be the third Matthew or fifth Emily in their classroom. While Olivia and Liam both sit at the number one spot for girls and boys, respectively, the SSA's runner-up for most popular name of 2024 was Noah for boys and Emma for girls. This was followed by Oliver and Amelia in the third spot, and Theodore and Charlotte in the fourth. Rounding out the top five were James for boys and Mia for girls. According to Slagen, these are the names we can expect to see becoming even more popular in the next few years: Truce, Colsen, Rocky, Kace and Benson for boys; Scottie, Marjorie, Ailany, Romy and Elowyn for girls. The name 'Olivia' has held the number one spot for most popular girl names for six consecutive years, while 'Liam' has been the most popular boy name for eight years in a row The SSA found that Truce was the baby name that jumped the most in popularity for boys from 2023 to 2024. The name rose a whopping 11,118 spots in just one year. Colsen jumped 1,204 spots between 2023 to 2024, and Rocky rose from number 888 in 2023 to number 657 the following year. Kace also jumped 214 spots on the list, while Benson rose 181 spots. As for girls, the name Ailany rose the most in popularity from 2023 to 2024, according to the SSA. Marjorie was the third trending baby name, jumping a total of 429 spots that year; it was closely followed by Scottie, which moved up 414 spots. Romy, which was ranked number 1283 in 2023 made it to number 926 the following year, while Elowyn went from number 692 to 447. The most unattractive-sounding names While some names may have been popular decades ago, Slagen says they are not all as timeless as parents might think. Slagen revealed names that have 'harsher consonant sounds' might be best for parents to avoid because they're no longer 'en vogue.' Some of these names include Bertha, Mortimer and Vanis. Monogamy has long been the hallmark of romantic relationships, but what happens when couples decide tradition just isn't for them? In recent years, more people have begun to explore alternative forms of romance from open marriages and polycules to throuples and polyamory. Dating apps like Hinge, Bumble, Tinder and Feeld now let users search for partners interested in 'ethical non-monogamy' (ENM). Sexpert Adreena Winters says it's a 'cultural shift', with younger generations now 'realising love and commitment don't have to follow a single, rigid blueprint'. 'Monogamy has long been considered the default, but I think younger generations are finally starting to question why that is,' she explains. 'We're seeing a cultural shift where honesty, autonomy, and communication are valued more than simply conforming to tradition. 'For many, it's not about rejecting monogamy entirely - it's about choosing what actually works for them, rather than what they were told should work.' Adreena, 37, says that monogamy 'expects one person to be your best friend, your confidant, your sexual match, your emotional support, and that's a lot of pressure to put on a single relationship. Monogamy has long been the hallmark of traditional relationships across the country, but what happens when couples decide tradition just isn't for them? (Pictured: Rochelle Siemienowicz) 'Open dynamics allow people to express different sides of themselves with different partners, without it being seen as betrayal. 'It's not always about having more, it's about having different, and letting go of the idea that love has to be limited to one container. 'When done consciously, non-monogamy can actually bring people closer, because it requires communication, trust, and a deeper understanding of each other.' While ENM - an umbrella term for non-monogamous relationship styles - is growing in popularity among younger generations, Rochelle Siemienowicz is proof alternative relationships have been practised in Australia for a lot longer than people may think. 'I've been living in a harmonious polycule for around eight years,' says Rochelle, a 53-year-old journalist and author from Perth, Australia. Rochelle, who was raised in a Seventh Day Adventist family, is married to her husband David. They share one child together. She also has a partner named Markus, and David is dating a woman named Tash. Rochelle, David, Markus and Tash make up a polycule, which is a connected network of three or more people in a consensual non-monogamous relationship. Sexpert Adreena Winters tells Daily Mail it's a 'cultural shift', with younger generations bucking tradition while 'realising love and commitment don't have to follow a single, rigid blueprint' Not everyone in a polycule is romantically involved with every other person in the group, with connections described as more of a web. But while some critics may believe ENM is a breeding ground for jealousy or conflict, Rochelle says one of the biggest obstacles in her polycule is actually time-management. 'Time is definitely an issue,' she chuckles when asked how she and her partners schedule their dates. 'We have a shared Google Calendar. We have kind of a routine we stick to that's fairly flexible because all of us want everyone to be happy. We have certain nights of the week that belong to each couple. 'It's become pretty fluid, but I find that time-management stuff is more difficult than, say, what you might think is jealousy or whatever. The time stuff is really full on.' But despite the effort her polycule puts into finding time for one another, Rochelle says it's far from being 'a massive chore'. Rochelle Siemienowicz, 53, is proof alternative relationships have been practised in Australia for a lot longer than people may think. Rochelle is pictured with her partner Markus (left), her husband David (second from right), their son (centre), and David's partner Tash (right) 'It's also a huge privilege to have another partner you can spend time with who feels like a holiday from the other relationships. You want to have partners who feel like it's play and not work,' she says. 'There is more love, there is more sex, there is more communication, there is more people at the Christmas dinner table, and when someone gets sick there's more people to help out. It's like a little tribe. 'I think it can be really good in a society where nuclear families can be quite isolated and a lot of us don't have extended family networks. It works, if you're into it.' When asked if it was the feeling of community that attracted her to forming a polycule, she says: 'Every new person that you love is a world unto themselves. It's exploring a new world. 'As humans, we desire safety and security, but we also want adventure and exploration and growth. It's one way to try and balance those things,' she adds. Adreena, who makes her living as a sex expert and adult content creator, adds that ENM also forces couples to be more open and honest about their desires and fears. 'When you're in an open or non-traditional relationship, there's no room to hide from yourself. You're constantly asked to reflect, to communicate better, to own your jealousy or fear and move through it,' she says. 'It requires a level of honesty and emotional maturity that a lot of people never get the chance to develop in monogamy.' Rochelle, who was raised in a Seventh Day Adventist family in Perth, is married to her husband David and also has another partner named Markus 'You also get to witness your partner's happiness without ego - that's called compersion - and it can be just as intimate and powerful as sex itself,' she continues. Rochelle, who has chosen to be open about her experiences in a polycule, recently wrote a novel inspired by her relationships. She released Double Happiness, a book 'about one woman and two men and what if she didn't have to choose', in October 2024. 'It's a story about the evolution of a family into a non-monogamous arrangement, but it really goes into the complexities and complications and the humour around that because it's kind of real and funny, and jealousy is a thing,' she says. 'There can be a lot of drama. I didn't want it to be an advertisement for poly but I also wanted to say, "These kinds of relationships exist. They can work. They can be happy."' She goes on to say her book also explores 'the difference between the theory of non-monogamy and the practice of it'. 'If anyone was thinking about trying this, you can feel philosophically aligned with it and feel like it's a really great idea, but you're not going to know if you can really stomach it until you experience it,' she says. 'I think the more you can read and explore and take it really slowly and kind of have a sense of humour about it, the more you can work out if it is going to be a style of relating that suits you.' Adreena says monogamy 'expects one person to be your best friend, your confidant, your sexual match, your emotional support, and that's a lot of pressure to put on a relationship' Adreena and Rochelle offered quite the enlightening conversation on the topic of ENM, with both women championing alternative relationship styles for their own reasons. But there is one thing they align on: monogamy is not going anywhere. 'Monogamy can be really beautiful if both people want to choose that. I definitely wouldn't be saying non-monogamy is the answer,' Rochelle says. 'I think the reason more people are exploring it is because it's out there as an option, there is a lot less stigma attached to it, although I would say there still is stigma.' And Adreena agrees, saying monogamy will always be an option 'but it also shouldn't be treated as the only valid option'. 'I think we're heading toward a future where people are less afraid to admit what they really want, and that's exciting,' she says. 'Whether you want one partner or five, what matters is that it's done with respect and awareness. The future isn't about replacing monogamy, it's about making space for choice.' READ THE LATEST FROM DAILYMAIL+ Here are some great stories you may have missed: From styling Nicole Kidman, Naomi Watts and top models backstage at international fashion shows, to driving Sydneysiders to work through peak-hour traffic - Daniel Skinner's career change is as unexpected as it is inspiring. The 48-year-old from Sydney was once at the centre of Australia's fashion and celebrity hair scene, working with A-listers, designers, and jetting off to New York Fashion Week every year. But after three decades in the industry, silent pain from a chronic skin condition forced him to walk away from the world he loved. Now, he spends his days behind the wheel of an 18-tonne bus, and says he's 'never been happier'. Daniel first discovered hairdressing at just 16, when he started shampooing on weekends at a salon in his hometown of Coffs Harbour, NSW. 'It was my after-school job in high school,' he told Daily Mail. 'I had a friend who needed someone to shampoo on Saturdays, and so that's how I got into it.' By 18, he'd packed his bags and moved to Sydney, landing an apprenticeship at a Paddington salon. The move quickly paid off, and before long, Daniel's career skyrocketed. Once a celebrity stylist, now a Sydney bus driver, 48 year old Daniel Skinner's (pictured) journey is anything but ordinary After 30 years as a top stylist, chronic pain forced Daniel to leave the world he loved. Now, he's found true happiness driving an 18-tonne bus through Sydney He styled for top designers like Zimmerman and Collette Dinnigin, and soon found himself working with Hollywood names. 'As soon as I went to Valonz [a top Sydney salon], it was, like, bam - all the designers and then actresses like Toni Collette, Nicole Kidman and Naomi Watts,' he said. 'It all kind of happened overnight.' On the outside, Daniel's career was every young hairdresser's dream, from high-profile clients, endless creativity, and a front-row seat at Fashion Week. But the reality was far tougher. 'I might have up to 13 clients on a Saturday,' he said. 'By the end of the day, you've given everything you've got to your clients, and you just feel like having a quiet night at home.' In 2009, Daniel opened his own salon, cheekily named Happy Endings in Surry Hills, giving him independence and a loyal clientele. He discovered hairdressing at 16 while shampooing at a local salon in Coffs Harbour, NSW. By 18, he'd moved to Sydney for an apprenticeship where his career 'skyrocketed' He styled for top designers like Zimmerman and Collette Dinnigan, and soon found himself working with Hollywood names. Pictured here with Wella's international colour ambassador Monique McMahon (left) He recalled styling stars such as Toni Collette, Nicole Kidman and Naomi Watts, who were regulars at the Sydney salon where he worked in his 20s Yet, behind the scenes, a debilitating health battle had begun. Years of contact with bleach, dyes and water wreaked havoc on Daniel's hands. 'I got eczema and contact dermatitis,' he explained. 'My skin just started cracking and bleeding, and it wasn't healing.' Topical steroid creams provided temporary relief but came with serious risks. 'I started using it more and more, and it stopped working. My hands were still burning and bleeding. 'I thought, I'm using this cream that's toxic to my body, and it's not even helping.' For almost a year, he battled through the pain in silence - never telling clients the extent of his condition in fear of making them feel uncomfortable. Eventually, he realised the career he'd built since high school was no longer sustainable. Yet, behind the scenes, a debilitating health battle had begun. Years of contact with bleach, dyes and water wreaked havoc on Daniel's hands, but he didn't want to tell his clients On a holiday to Greece in 2023, swimming in the Aegean Sea cleared Daniels skin completely, and a chance bus job ad on his journey home led to a new career 'My body was telling me something. It was unsustainable. I had to have a career change.' The turning point came during a holiday in Greece where he stopped using his steroid cream and swam in the Aegean sea where his skin condition 'cleared up completely'. On a ferry back to Paros, he stumbled across a bus company recruitment page and began uploading his details, receiving a call when he landed back in Sydney asking when he could start. 'My clients were very upset when I told them, and my friends and family were surprised too because I'd never even owned a car!' But for Daniel, the shift felt right after hairdressing since he was 16 he didn't want to do the same job his entire life. 'You need to challenge your brain as you get older.' Swapping catwalks for bus routes, Daniel now loves his new routine and finds his skills with people still shine in his role behind the wheel Now, instead of catwalks and celebrity sets, Daniel spends his days on Sydney's bus routes, and he loves the new rhythm. 'At the moment, I'm doing what's called a broken shift,' he explained. 'I'll start at 6.30am, drive for four or five hours, cycle home, walk my dog, have lunch, maybe a nap, then go back and do the afternoon peak.' Far from losing his people skills, Daniel's past life as a stylist has only enhanced his new role. 'Bus driving is very much a people-person job - and one of the traits of a good hairdresser is the ability to talk with anyone.' Although he misses being part of his clients' lives after decades of styling families through all their milestones, Daniel insists he's 'very happy' with his career change to bus driving - and is financially 'a lot more secure' And the moments that bring him the most joy are surprisingly simple, especially 'saving people' from rain and terrible weather on their commutes. 'And also the little kids in their prams - seeing their faces light up when they come on board.' Financially, Daniel admits he's better off now than he ever was running his own salon, particularly after the strain of COVID lockdowns on small businesses. 'I love that I have someone that pays my taxes and super. As a bus driver, there's more security, and that's made me feel happier.' As for missing the glamour of celebrity styling, he admits to mourning the loss of being part of his clients' lives. 'Some I'd been seeing for 30 years - I cut their hair during pregnancies, cut their children's hair for the first time, and watched them grow up. That's the part I'll always miss.' But as for his new career, Daniel is certain he's in for the long haul. Richard Osman has revealed that he attempted to counter creative decisions made by the producers who adapted his debut novel Thursday Murder Club into a film. He discussed the topic while appearing on ITVs This Morning on Thursday, during which the television presenter and now-author discussed Impossible Fortune, the fifth and latest instalment in his best-selling book series. He also responded to the fans who have criticised the screen adaptation - which is available to watch on Netflix - saying it failed to live up to the book. Richard defended the adaptation, telling ITV presenters Ben Shephard and Cat Deeley that he had written the book 'from my heart', but that he had to hand creative direction to 'brilliant people'. Some viewers have described tweaks made in the adaptation, which was directed by Chris Columbus and produced by Steven Spielberg, as 'unforgivable' - including changes made to details including the killer's motive. Differences between the original novels and the movie have prompted accusations that the filmmakers failed to capture the book's 'essence'. Richard told the programme's presenters that he had made alternative suggestions during filming, but that these had fallen on deaf ears. However, he added: 'I've written my version of the book and it's available in all bookshops and it'll be there forever and there in 100 years time, that's my version, that's the version that comes from my heart. 'I'm not gonna be the person that sits down and does the adaptation for a film because I've done it already, so you have to give it to the brilliant people and they've got to do a two-hour version of this thing. Richard Osman (pictured) has revealed that he did attempt to counter creative decisions made during the making of the Thursday Murder Club film adaptation, as he responds to criticism from fans 'If you wrote down everything that was in the book, it would just be Joyce wittering on for four and a half hours and everyone would switch off, so you have to let other people do their version of it. 'They have to make choices that you wouldn't necessarily make yourself, and that's the fun thing.' Discussing the suggestions he made to producers, Richard hinted they had been ignored. He revealed that he had made comments about the characters, prompting a shocked Cat Deeley to ask if he'd made the suggestions to Hollywood heavyweight Spielberg himself. Richard confirmed that he had, he then lightheartedly added 'ask me if he listened' - implying that his suggestions had gone unheeded. But he did defend the lauded producer, noting: 'They know what they're doing. He made ET, I didn't make ET.' The latest instalment in the series, Impossible Fortune, which was published on Thursday, has received glowing reviews from fans. When Richard shared details from the new book in his email newsletter, he appeared to make a subtle dig at the divisive adaptation. During an interview on ITV s This Morning on Thursday, the author discussed his new book, Impossible Fortune, the fifth instalment in his best-selling book series (pictured with Ben Shepard, left, and Cat Deeley, right) Richard (pictured) told This Morning presenters that he had made alternative suggestions during filming, but hinted they had fallen on deaf ears Writing about the release in his email announcement, Richard said the 'gang is officially BACK'. He wrote: 'In the books business, the day your book is published is called "pub day".' He then joked: 'As opposed to the television business where every day was "pub day".' Richard continued: 'Can't wait for you to get reading and see what mischief Elizabeth, Joyce, Ibrahim and Ron are up to this time. Other friends are also back.' He then made a comment which appeared to be a quip about the film adaptation, in which Polish handyman Bogdan confessed his crime even though there is no solid evidence against him. However, in the subsequent murder mystery books, he becomes close with the crime-solving retirees and eventually starts dating police officer PC Donna De Freitas (Naomi Ackie). So in sealing his fate as a convicted killer, the filmmakers seem to have effectively shuts down the possibility that he will be a part of any future cinematic works. In his email about the new book, while discussing the characters, Richard mentioned Bogdan, joking that he 'must have somehow got out of prison'. Richard Osman appears to have shared a subtle dig at the highly divisive Thursday Murder Club film - as the latest of his true crime series has come out today, with glowing reviews from devoted book purists However, criticism of the adaptation has not stopped excitement from fans of the novel franchise. And critics have praised the latest instalment, saying it heralds a 'new dawn' for the franchise - giving the group a new adventure to tackle when 'a villain wants access to an uncrackable code and will stop at nothing to get it', featuring high-tech bitcoin mysterious and a very eventful wedding. 'When Richard Osman published his inaugural Thursday Murder Club novel in the autumn of 2020, it proved the perfect pick-me-up for a nation mired in the pandemic blues,' Jake Kerr wrote for the Telegraph, awarding the latest novel in the series four stars. 'Five years and millions of book sales on, the latest instalment the fifth in the series has an equally vital function: to cheer up those of us who have just sat through the clodhopping Netflix adaptation of the first book. 'Although the film boasts a blue-chip quartet of geriatric thespians as Osmans crime-busting pensioners Elizabeth, Joyce, Ibrahim and Ron, it doesnt have half the charm and liveliness of the novels nor the emotional impact. 'On the page, the superannuated sleuths defy the elements of caricature to possess a vibrancy that makes you invested in their triumphs and tribulations, large or small.' Meanwhile, for the i, Moira Redmond was full of compliments for the new book, saying it proves how sharp the original source material is. 'The new Thursday Murder Club film is very watchable and has great actors, but is very much a certain kind of British film, and as so often in adaptations, the edges are smoothed and some of the jokes and subtleties are missing, other points hammered home plonkingly,' she penned. 'It makes you realise how nuanced and clever Osman is in his writing.' Thursday Murder Club viewers are fuming after the new Netflix adaptation made an 'unforgivable' change to Richard Osman 's beloved book series Writing on Reddit, several people demanded 'justice for Bogdan' - the Polish handyman brought to life on-screen by actor Henry Lloyd-Hughes - after his storyline was 'bizarrely' changed 'The fifth novel in Osmans bestselling Thursday Murder Club series sees crime-solving pensioners Elizabeth, Joyce, Ibrahim and Ron engaging with secret codes, drug dealers, impecunious aristocrats and cryptocurrency, with assistance from former cocaine queenpin Connie, friendly cop Donna, Bogdan the handyman and Rons clever nine-year-old grandson,' Laura Wilson wrote for The Guardian. 'Although still grieving for her husband, Elizabeth steps up when Nick, the best man at Joyces daughters wedding, confides that somebody is trying to kill him. 'Nick and his business partner Holly own a high-security storage facility and once accepted a payment in bitcoin, the value of which has risen to 350m. They want to cash out, but the money is protected by two codes, and as Nick and Holly have one each, neither can access it alone. 'When Nick disappears, the quartet gets on the case. The central mystery is a satisfactory head-scratcher, but the true pleasure is a gently humorous read, peopled with characters who feel like old friends.' Meanwhile, opting for another four out of five rating, Radio Times' Helen Daly penned: 'As ever, Osman uses the cosy crime frame to explore themes often overlooked in the genre: loneliness, loss and diminishing independence. 'Here, Rons journey of letting go of his old self and embracing a new one is especially affecting and the novel would be even stronger if readers were able to linger on these themes just a little longer. 'The mystery itself is more high-tech than usual, with missing bitcoin sparking a chase that draws in ruthless players. The wealth-obsessed leave chaos and death in their wake, and the investigation has real bite. 'As mysteries go in The Thursday Murder Club series, its a fairly exciting one with an element of the cat and mouse chase.' The first daughter of President Donald Trump showed off her long legs in high heels as she visited one of New York City's hottest new spots. Ivanka Trump took to Instagram, sporting an all-black dress with matching heels and leggings, with skyscrapers behind her. The slideshow of five pictures, with her posing on what appears to be a balcony or rooftop, concluded with a mirror selfie taken inside a bathroom at new hotspot Faena captioned: 'In a New York State of mind.' The post to Instagram now has over 140,000 likes with many comments adoring Ivanka's beauty. One user wrote: 'Beautiful! I just love you all, especially your Dad! Thank you for all the hard work for the U.S.A!' Another added: 'Beautiful as always!!!!!' A third said: 'An embodiment of timeless grace, sophistication and refinement!' Faena New York in Chelsea was designed by the Bjarke Ingles: One Group and founded by Alan Faena. Ivanka Trump took to Instagram, sporting an all-black dress with matching heels and leggings, with skyscrapers behind her as she visited Faena New York Ivanka posed up for a mirror selfie in the new New York hotspot Faena New York in Chelsea was designed by the Bjarke Ingles: One Group and founded by Alan Faena Guests, 'Step into a room that blurs the lines between dreams and reality. A wonderland of color, glamour, and comfort that expands the imagination and cradles the spirit,' according to the hotel's website. While prices vary by night, today's lowest rate is $1,395 plus tax for the Classic King Room. The cheapest option features a 400-square-foot room with a king-sized bed, desk, walk-in shower, Tierra Santa bath products, separate toilet, coffee and tea maker, two-sink vanity, varying views, and floor-to-ceiling windows. The most expensive room available tonight is the Rose Two-Bedroom Suite, priced at $9,095 plus tax. It shares all the features of the Class King room but also features a dining table, measures 1,710 square feet, includes a king and queen bed, a living room, and a walk-in closet. However, on a different day in March pf 2026, the most expensive room is the Faena Three-Bedroom suite, which costs $31,500, plus an additional $4,647 in taxes. While prices vary by night, today's lowest rate is $1,395 plus tax for the Classic King Room No pictures are available of the suite but it has everything a guest would need, including a large terrace, distinctive interiors, and three king beds. The hotel's website describes it as 'The crown jewel of our residential-style accommodations.' The very exclusive hotel features 24-karat gold ceilings, rare artwork, and doormen dressed in white top hats. Guests can visit the three different bars and the La Boca restaurant by Francis Mallmann. 'La Boca in Buenos Aires is my home, where the table is set not for guests but for blunt tenderness. An outburst of dissidence, opposites, not precisely harmony. Here I cook what we eat - not to impress but to remember. A surprised assembly of my life in your lips. And now, we are bringing La Boca to New York,' said Mallmann. One of the three spots to grab a drink are known as The Living Room, which offers an original mural by Juan Gatti and a 160-foot-long gallery. The post to Instagram now has over 140,000 likes with many comments adoring Ivanka's beauty The very exclusive hotel features 24-karat gold ceilings, rare artwork, and doormen dressed in white top hats According to the website, El Secreto is the 'clandestine jewel of Faena New York, a hidden salon and exclusive bar, quietly concealed behind an unmarked door on the hotel's second floor. 'Imagined by Alan Faena, the intimate speakeasy evokes mystery and indulgence in equal measure creating an atmosphere of opulence, seduction, and discovery.' And La Cava is the third spot which is a reserved hideaway for exclusive gatherings that grants access to the other two bars. Faena also operates establishments in Buenos Aires and Miami Beach. Prince William and Princess Kate could soon be heading Down Under with their three children, for the first time in more than ten years. It follows an invitation from Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese during his 90-minute sit-down meeting with King Charles at Balmoral Castle on the weekend. Albanese was 'hopeful' and said that there was a 'standing invitation' for the Prince and Princess of Wales to visit Australia in the 'coming period'. 'Im certainly hoping there will be one, theres a standing invitation that the royal family are always welcome in Australia,' he told News Corp. 'It was wonderful to welcome King Charles and Queen Camilla to Australia recently, that had a very successful visit and His Majesty is very engaged and I hope that the Prince and Princess of Wales are able to visit as well and we are hopeful that might occur in the coming period.' It's understood the royal visit will most likely happen in July or August 2026 to align with the UK summer school holidays, according to Sunrise royal editor Rob Jobson. 'The period, I think, is probably going to be the summer of the UK when the kids are not in school,' he told the program on Monday. 'I can't see William and Kate going down to Australia and leaving the kids behind.' Prince William and Princess could soon be heading to Australia with their three children The proposed tour following an invitation from Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese (right), who met with King Charles (left) on the weekend 'Kate hasn't really done a foreign trip of any significance since 2022. So this is a major trip for her.' Prince William and Princess Kate last visited Australia in 2014 with their eldest son George, now 12, who was a baby at the time. The three-week tour included official visits to Sydney, Uluru, and Canberra. Their younger children Charlotte, 10, and Louis, 7, have never visited Australia. There were plans for the royals to tour Australia in 2020 to visit communities devastated by the catastrophic Black Summer bushfires in 2019-2020. However those plans were derailed by the Covid pandemic. Prince William previously visited Australia in January 2010 and again 14 months later in March 2011 to meet with flood victims in Queensland and Victoria. His first visit was as a nine-month-old when his parents Prince Charles and Princess Diana toured Australia in 1983. The Prince and Princess Wales (pictured with son George) last visited Australia in 2014 News of the royals' possible visit comes after Albanese met with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, gifting him with a four-pack of 'Albo's Pale Ale'. Albanese held four cans of the beer brewed by Willie the Boatman in Sydney's inner west as the couple arrived for the dinner in London. A photo of a much younger Albanese is pictured on the brew's logo. 'We're polite guests,' he told photographers. Albanese's fiancee Jodie Haydon wore a blue pantsuit for the dinner, which will be hosted by Starmer and his wife Diana and also attended by Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney. Chocolate lovers will receive an extra special treat with special tubs of Quality Street this Christmas. The famous sharing chocolate box, which normally contains 11 flavours, is offering an additional option this year - but there's a catch. Sealed in a lime green wrapper, the brand new flavour will remain a secret until December. And, the special edition tubs won't be available everywhere - only Waitrose and John Lewis will stock them. Online, a number of Quality Street fans have already been left scratching their heads over what the new flavour could be. Beneath a social media post made by confectioners, several shared their ideas as to the mystery option. Some guesses included Dubai chocolate, mint creme, pistachio, honeycomb, and even pineapple. Rachael Mundy, marketing manager for gifting and seasonal at Nestle Confectionery UK & Ireland, told The Sun: 'Each year we look forward to bringing a limited edition sweet into the mix to excite and delight Quality Street fans, but this year we've taken it a step further by keeping the flavour top secret.' The famous sharing chocolate box will include a new addition to its 11-flavour selection pack this year, but there's a catch (pictured, the new flavour chocolates) 'We can't wait to find out what the nation thinks the flavour is, and we're very much looking forward to hearing some of the guesses.' Shoppers will also be delighted to learn that the festive pick and mix stations will be returning to John Lewis stores across the UK. This means chocolate lovers will be able to pack their own Quality Street tubs full of their favourite flavours. The flagship mix and mix station located at John Lewis's Oxford Street store is already open. Others around the country are set to open their doors next month. This year, shoppers will be able to add a personal touch to their hand-crafted Quality Street mixes. Nestle has announced that customers can now print gift ribbons with loved ones' names and personalised messages to wrap around their tins. Last year, the brand released another new flavour, Coffee Creme, which will be available in standalone boxes this Christmas. Online, a number of Quality Street fans have already been left scratching their heads over what the new flavour could be John Lewis stores with Quality Street pick & mix stations Bluewater Cambridge Cardiff Cheadle Cribbs Causeway Edinburgh Glasgow High Wycombe Kingston Leeds Leicester Liverpool Milton Keynes Newcastle Nottingham Oxford Street (Platinum) Solihull Southampton Trafford Centre Advertisement The coffee-flavoured sweets are now on sale in John Lewis and Waitrose across the UK. It comes after Nestle was accused of 'ruining Christmas' after some sweet-toothed lovers noticed the brand had made a major change to Quality Street chocolates. The selection boxes used to be sold in metal tins before being offered in plastic tubs in 2013. Last year, the packaging was changed again, and the chocolates were sold in cardboard tubs. This year, the chocolates will be available in both plastic and cardboard containers. Now eagle-eyed shoppers have noticed that for the second year running, they will be sold in paper packaging once more. This move has divided opinion among confectionery lovers, according to the Sun. While some fans are keen on the more eco-friendly packaging, others were less enthusiastic. The outlet reports that one Quality Street fan wrote: 'Just when we thought we couldn't sink any lower as a nation.' Another felt the move had taken 'the sparkle and excitement out of Christmas'. And earlier this year, in a post on X (formerly Twitter) an angry chocolate lover simply said the new wrapping had 'Ruined Christmas...' But not all agreed, with some sweet-toothed fans praising the move. One shopper reportedly congratulated the conglomerate, saying 'awesome work, Nestle' when the cardboard packaging was first announced last year. A Nestle spokesperson has confirmed the new, more environmentally-friendly option will be available again for those who want to purchase it for Christmas 2025. They said: 'Were delighted to confirm that Quality Street is bringing back paper tubs in selected Tesco stores this Christmas. 'The brand continues to evaluate the tubs popularity with shoppers, maintaining a view on innovative ways to improve the sustainability of its packaging.' Tesco shows no sign of losing its grip as the country's biggest supermarket despite fighting a price war and higher business costs, experts say. Investors hope the grocery giant maintains sales growth when it publishes its half-year results on Thursday. Sales rose 4.6 per cent in its first quarter, compared with the previous year, boosted by growing demand for own-brand and premium products. Its share of the market is now 28.4 per cent, according to analysts. Sky's the limit: Tesco shows no sign of losing its grip as the country's biggest supermarket Sainsbury's and Asda Tesco's biggest rivals have seen market share fall, as discounters Aldi and Lidl gain customers. Richard Hunter, from Interactive Investor, said: 'At the first quarter numbers in June there were no signs that the company was losing its grip. Indeed, the juggernaut powered on.' In April, Tesco said it expected to make as much as 400m less profit as the competition between grocers hots up. The owner of a famous, picturesque wedding venue has lashed out as an ongoing dispute with a neighbour and council threatens to ruin her business. Malina Schindler has been hosting small-scale events and operating two cottages as Airbnbs at Allview Escapes in Blackheath, in the Blue Mountains west of Sydney, since 2003. The venue has breathtaking views of the local scenery and has played host to high-profile weddings, including Married at First Sight couple Ollie and Tahnee's final commitment ceremony in 2023. However, Ms Schindler claims brides have been calling her distressed about restrictions that have been placed on the venue as her feud with a neighbour and council escalates. According to Ms Schindler, the issues began when a neighbouring property was purchased by a man who began lodging repeated complaints with both the Blue Mountains City Council and police regarding her land use in 2021. She claims the man used a loophole in NSW planning laws, introduced in 2021, that prevents rural workers cottages from being used as an Airbnb. It prompted the council in March 2023 to issue Ms Schindler orders to stop hosting events and using her workers' cottage for short stay accommodation. Ms Schindler appealed the stop-use orders in the NSW Land and Environment Court, which this month ruled in favour of allowing the venue to host up to 28 events annually, each capped at 100 guests. Allview Escapes owner Malina Schindler (pictured) has lost hr bid for music to be played at outdoor events after a court decision in NSW The property in Blackheath is a popular destination for weddings due to its scenic outlook over the Blue Mountains National Park However the consent orders state outdoor amplified music is banned and all parties must end by 10pm. Ms Schindler said weddings are typically booked 18 months in advance, and brides have been calling her in distress about the restrictions. 'I'm getting calls from brides who say all they want to do is have their first dance in front of the Blue Mountains. Another bride is having nightmares,' she said. 'It's the only property like it in the Blue Mountains with views as far as the Sydney Harbour Bridge. 'We don't have raging parties, it's a small wedding venue. I don't know what to do.' Ms Schindler said she has hosted hundreds of events over two decades, with only nine noise complaints ever received by council, one related to a helicopter landing, and another to fireworks. She told the court the restrictions could lead to breach of contract claims from clients and reputational damage if negative reviews are posted online due to last-minute changes to music arrangements. However, a Blue Mountains City Council spokesman said the property had been operating for more than 20 years without planning permission. Married At First Sight couple Ollie and Tahnee (pictured) held their final commitment vows at the property in 2023 The consent orders allow the venue to erect marquees however no amplified music is allowed outdoors at Allview Escapes and the party must stop by 10pm He said one of the two houses on the property could be lawfully used as an Airbnb, however the property had no approvals for large or regular events. 'Due to the hosting of unauthorised events at the property, Council issued orders to cease using the property for events,' he said. 'In response, the owner lodged a development application for a hotel and associated events. 'This application contained insufficient information and was refused by the Blue Mountains Local Planning Panel.' Under council planning rules, function centres, restaurants, and cafes are prohibited uses for property in the zone it falls under, due to the potential negative impact on the world heritage area. For the past 15 years, Ms Schindler said she has submitted development applications in an effort to operate legally, but local planning schemes have consistently blocked her efforts. Her pleas for permission to allow outdoor music for existing bookings were rejected by the court, which sided with council that it was inappropriate to allow music, given acoustic tests showed it would adversely impact neighbours. Ms Schindler said the decision would have a negative impact on her income and the local supply chain for events. Residents of Lake Tahoe swear they have their own Loch Ness Monster living deep in the waters, but experts say it doesn't exist. The first recorded appearance of Tahoe Tessie was in 1897 by IC Coggin, a native of San Francisco, who wrote about seeing a 600-foot monster serpent living in the woods near the lake, which sits on the California-Nevada border. Coggin described the monster has having a head that was '14 feet wide' with 'large eyes [that] seemed to be about eight inches in diameter and shining jet black'. The 20-foot wide monster stood at around 600 feet tall. 'The skin was black on the back, turning to a reddish yellow on the side and belly, and must have been very hard and tough,' he wrote about the serpent-like creature. Coggin had watched the animal dive into the lake and disappear. The lake is 1,644 feet deep, leaving the monster plenty of room to lurk beneath the water. The serpent was spotted several times by locals, Coggin said, and again throughout the 1970s to the 1990s. A water-skier had claimed to see a 10-foot-long creature swimming underneath him as he rode the waves near Zephyr Cove, according to Alta. And several scientists in the area also claimed they saw it, the Nevada Appeal said. The first recorded appearance of Tahoe Tessie was in 1897 by IC Coggin, a native of San Francisco, who wrote about seeing a 600-foot monster serpent living in the woods near the lake, which sits on the California-Nevada border The serpent was spotted several times by locals, Coggin said, and again throughout the 1970s to the 1990s But Dr. Charles Goldman, a limnologist who is also a forecast expert for Lake Tahoe, believes people are only seeing an optical illusion, rather than a mystical sea creature. Lakes, like Tahoe, are made of deep, cold water, which can produce illusions as the temperature changes. 'That is why people see things that really don't exist,' he told the Nevada Appeal in 2004. And any search for the monsters has proven fruitless. However, he said it's much harder to prove that something doesn't exist, especially after seeing a photo of the monster where a flipper 'looks terribly authentic'. He's also seen another photo of a creature that appeared to be 20 feet long. However, his best hypothesis is that the monster could simply be waves creating an illusion. 'You have a flat lake with no boats visible, but boats did pass hours before, and the waves come back and amplify,' he said at the time. But Dr. Charles Goldman, a limnologist who is also a forecast expert for Lake Tahoe, believes people are only seeing an optical illusion, rather than a mystical sea creature Another hypothesis is that it is really just a large sturgeon fish. Sturgeon can grow up to 1,500 pounds and live up to a century (file photo) Another hypothesis is that it is really just a large sturgeon fish. Sturgeon can grow up to 1,500 pounds and live up to a century. He also argued that the lake is too young at 11,000 years old to have any prehistoric mysteries lingering its depths. Whether or the monster is real or not, it's become a local legend, and a profitable one at that. Bob McCormick was the one to name the monster and he named it Tessie as a nod to the Loch Ness Monster, who is also known as Nessie. The Loch Ness Monster myth reigns from the Scottish Highlands and has gained global notoriety among mysterious sea creatures. In 1985, McCormick wrote a children's book about the serpent that is still sold in local bookshops. Costumes and toys of the animal have also popped up in the area. In 2021, Lake and Wake Tahoe owners, Tony Ferusio and Lorenzo Fitzpatrick, tried to play a prank on the residents of Kings Beach, which is located on Lake Tahoe. They constructed a serpent-like head and neck out of green fabric, safety pins, and a PVC pipe and took it out on an eFoil ride on the lake. Pranksters constructed a serpent-like head and neck out of green fabric, safety pins, and a PVC pipe and took it out on an eFoil ride on the lake in 2021 The pranksters took their fake Tahoe Tessie out on the lake 'We got up super early and got the brother out there. Took as many videos as I could with my camera and then just posted it the next day on a bunch of (social media) accounts,' Fitzpatrick told Tahoe Daily News. The moment ended up going viral and talks of Tessie began again. In 2023, an app launched called Tahoe Tessie, which helps educate people on climate change. The app allows user to see how different things, like pollution, can affect aquatic organisms, like Tessie. 'She gets sadder and sicker as the temperatures warm,' Heather Segale told KOLO at the time. 'Tahoe Tessie loves to swim in clean, cold water,' a pop-up screen on the app said. The tale of Scotland's Loch Ness monster can be traced back to a sunny day in November 1933 when Scottish man Hugh Gray took a picture that would spark a global obsession. He later described what he saw in Loch Ness, near Inverness, as an 'object of considerable dimensions'. Is there something lurking in the waters of Lake Tahoe? Pictured: Sand Harbor State Park, Lake Tahoe In 1934, a picture taken by London physician Robert Kenneth Wilson captured the world's attention. It showed what appeared to be a beast rearing its head out of the water. It was later exposed as a hoax His image showed what appeared to be some kind of creature amid churning water. From then on, sightings of the Loch Ness monster proliferated and, more than 90 years on, the interest has shown no sign of ebbing away. The first reported sighting of the monster is said to have been made in AD565 by the Irish missionary St Columba when he came across a giant beast in the River Ness. But no one has ever come up with a satisfactory explanation for the sightings - although in 2019, 'Nessie expert' Steve Feltham, who has spent 24 years watching the Loch, said he thought it was actually a giant Wels Catfish, native to waters near the Baltic and Caspian seas in Europe. An online register lists more than 1,000 total Nessie sightings, created by Mr Campbell, the man behind the Official Loch Ness Monster Fan Club and is available at www.lochnesssightings.com. You might want to think twice before clapping when your plane lands next. Clapping on airplanes is being decried as 'cringe', 'annoying' and 'embarrassing' across social media. The gesture once used to be common, but now everyone from pilots to flight attendants to etiquette experts are discouraging it. A survey from Wizz Air said that Georgia and Bulgaria were the European countries whose passengers clapped the most after landing - at 75 and 70 percent, respectively. Western European countries are less likely to clap, the survey added, while 18-to-24-year-old passengers were likelier to clap than their 25-to-34-year-old counterparts. A TikTok blogger with more than 145,000 followers who recently traveled to Mallorca, Spain, recently took to the internet and lashed out. @the_adam_chef_and_family said: 'Who claps because the plane lands safely? It's ridiculous, it's stupid. 'We didn't clap the taxi driver when he brought us to the airport safely and we took our bags off.' Clapping on airplanes is being called 'cringe', 'annoying' and 'embarrassing' (stock photo) The gesture used to be common but is now widely discouraged (stock photo) 'When I do my job, no one ever claps about it.' A pilot weighed in on the TikTok post, commenting: 'We find it embarrassing.' However, pilots usually cannot actually hear the clapping that goes on in the cabins on the plane. 'We've got headsets on, the doors can be thick and there's a lot of noise up front so we definitely can't hear clapping,' a pilot explained on Reddit. Marcus Kern offered a different perspective on Facebook, adding that he was a pilot with 30 years of experience. He said: 'We don't hear the clapping and we get told about it and appreciate it. I am always surprised how a sign of appreciation and gratitude is discussed on such an aggressive level. 'It seems people against it don't get enough gratitude themselves. I am sorry for each and everyone of you. 'I can only say: you reap what you sow. Be nice to each other. I thank the clappers.' Pilots usually cannot hear the clapping that happens in the back of the plane Western European countries are less likely to clap, the survey added Despite his plea, the feedback about clapping on planes appears to be increasingly negative online. Commenters were unafraid to mock the so-called 'clappers' in a video titled: 'If you clap when the plane lands, you shouldn't be allowed on the return flight home.' Sean Tobin wrote: 'There's a special place where they lock up people who clap on planes. Don't see them clapping when the bus gets to their stop.' Charlotte Moody added: 'Makes me cringe, clapping for doing their job correctly.' One Reddit user took his thoughts one step further and argued that the experience of flying on a plane had deteriorated. 'Flying used to be a luxury, including dressing up, attractive flight attendants, good meals, and VIP treatment,' the commenter said. 'Now it's more like a school bus in the sky.' Another Reddit comment joked that it came down to the ever-growing fees for traveling. 'Most airlines now charge a $25 landing-applause fee,' they said. Passengers are now refraining from clapping on planes Others maintain that clapping on planes is polite and a sign of appreciation. Angela Barbara Collings said on Facebook that 'people can be so relieved after a dodgy landing, that they just want to congratulate the pilot'. Rosie Panter, a travel expert, spoke to the Express and pointed out that plane-clapping exceptions exist. 'If you have had a particularly rocky flight and difficult landing, maybe a slight clap, or thanks to the pilot as you leave, but no regular flight to the Med should result in clapping,' she said. 'Let's leave that in the past.' It looked like nothing more than a highway fender-bender until troopers spotted a pair of eyes peering from the back of a refrigerated truck. The unnerving discovery came on Wednesday, September 17, after a big rig smashed into a minivan on Interstate 15 near Lindon, Utah. Behind the wheel was Jacob Ortell Scott, 28, who police say failed to stop as traffic slowed. The collision prompted inspectors to give the truck a closer look. That's when an investigator snapped a photo of the rear doors and noticed a sliver of movement inside. 'He took a photo of the rear of the truck and there was a slight gap in the door, and he happened to see a set of eyes looking at him as he took that photo,' Lt. Clay Morgan, with the Utah Highway Patrol, told KTSU. 'And then he knew we had more problems than just the accident.' Troopers opened the trailer and were stunned to find two girls Scott's half-sisters, aged just 14 and 12 - huddled in the icy compartment. The refrigerated trailer was cooled to 30 degrees and had been sealed in such a way the children could not have escaped on their own. The refrigerated truck involved in the Utah crash sits damaged on Interstate 15 after slamming into a minivan Front-end view of the commercial truck driven by Jacob Ortell Scott, 28, who was later arrested on child abuse charges The mangled rear of a white minivan that was struck from behind by the truck Another view of the smashed vehicle after the collision, which at first appeared to be a routine crash The girls, who are homeschooled, were not physically hurt but their brother was arrested on suspicion of aggravated child abuse as investigators probe the disturbing case. Authorities confirmed the sisters are now safe. This is not the first time a routine stop has led to a sinister discovery. Back in May, deputies in Texas uncovered a human smuggling operation after pulling over a truck hauling hay bales on Interstate 10. What looked like a harmless agricultural load turned out to be a deadly ruse - the bales had been hollowed out to hide undocumented migrants inside stifling compartments. Authorities described the method as 'incredibly dangerous to human life', warning that traffickers are using increasingly brazen and hazardous tactics to move people along America's highways. The son of a self-styled gypsy king buried in a gold coffin stands accused of making neighbours lives hell after setting up home outside a leafy village. Frank Tomney jr, 35, and his family moved static caravans and horses onto a paddock next to ancient woodland five years ago and successfully applied for a three-year temporary planning permission, now expired. He has now been accused of joining an attack on neighbour David McCorquodale, a retired Army Air Corps and British Airways pilot who is also a distant relative of Princess Diana and late author Dame Barbara Cartland. Last months terrifying incident allegedly involved a car being driven at the former Captain and him being threatened with an angle grinder. Parish councillor Mr McCorquodale, who lives next door to Tomney on the edge of Charlwood, Surrey, and other neighbours are furious after council officials recommended the traveller site receives permanent planning permission. There are also claims electricity has been siphoned from the supply to local residents. Tomney is the son of gypsy king Frank Tomney, also known as Frank Thompson, 69, who died in July. Frank Tomney posted picture of him posing with Bentley displaying personalised numberplate David McCorquodale, retired Army Air Corps and British Airways pilot, claims he was attacked The traveller patriarchs extravagant send-off included his supposed solid gold coffin being taken on a six day farewell tour by Rolls Royce before being laid to rest at a London cemetery. In 2011 Tomney SR and others were jailed for one of Britains biggest cowboy building scams, making 1.3m by tricking dozens of pensioners. Tomney SR was imprisoned for five-and-a-half years. A family friend of Mr McCorquodale, a cousin of Princess Dianas brother-in-law Neil McCorquodale and who comes from a military family steeped in duty and national pride, said: Tomney has made it as unpleasant as possible for David and his wife. It is a complete scandal that (planning) permission is likely to be granted. They have made their lives hell. It is sickening. It is disgusting. (Over the years) I understand 1,300 letters of complaint about (the travellers) have been sent to Mole Valley District Council. Police have been three or four times and David has spent over 30,000 on CCTV. Frank Tomney has totally played the system. Frank Tomney sr, pictured outside Preston Crown Court, where he received jail term in 2011 Frank Tomney sr was buried in a 'solid gold coffin' at a South London cemetery The disputed travellers' site at Charlwood, Surrey, which is subject of planning application The disputed driveway entrance where twin red metal fenceposts were installed by David McCorquodale and one on the right-hand side was cut down, sparking confrontation Mr McCorquodale who lives at a 2m house with adjacent smallholding - was allegedly assaulted after installing metal fence posts on a shared access road which he owns but also serves the travellers' site. On September 1, he went outside after hearing a loud noise and saw eight young men, some with balaclavas. Mr McCorquodale was allegedly pushed, shoved and assaulted by the gang who were trying to remove the posts, while Tomney instigated the attack. One assailant drove a vehicle at him while another charged at him allegedly brandishing an angle grinder. Previous alleged anti-social behaviour includes children on the gypsy site throwing stones at Mr McCorquodale and his wife, and gates being left open allowing the McCorquodale's sheep to escape. Meanwhile, Tomney is also understood to have been running a construction business from his site and using unsuitably large vehicles on the access road, which has led to Mr McCorquodale bringing a case in the civil courts. Tomney JR, whose social media includes pictures of him with a Bentley car bearing a personalised numberplate, lounging in a hot tub at his home, as well as fine-dining at The Dorchester hotel and a branch of The Ivy in London, has not been seen since Mr McCorquodale was attacked and did not reply to requests for comment. Glover's Wood, a Site of Special Scientific Interest and home to rare bat species Frank Tomney in hot tub outside 'static caravan' on site next to Mr McCorquodale's home Mole Valley District Council will decide on the retrospective application on Wednesday. The site is adjacent to Glovers Wood, a Site of Special Scientific Interest which is home to rare bats. Charlwood Parish Council, among opponents of the planning application, made further accusations of anti-social behaviour. In its objection, the council said: (There is) littering, Parish Council members have spent many hours collecting glass, bottles, tins, soiled clothing, plastic bags, needles, food, alcoholic drink bottles and packaging. The council also claimed there were reports of theft, trespass, vehicle damage and other issues. Another local resident said: Its not about who lives there its about the principle. This is Green Belt land, right next to an SSSI. If rules dont matter here, do they matter anywhere? The parish council adds there are sufficient alternative traveller sites in the district. Mole Valley District Council declined to comment further. A UK Power Networks spokesperson said: Our engineers disconnected an illegal electricity cable in the area on Wednesday. This had been attached to our low voltage electricity network which feeds local customers, and did not cause any risk to private power networks. Now, some answers emerge about her background The Chinese heiress accused of causing catastrophic injuries to a chauffeur by crashing her $1.5million Rolls-Royce into his Mercedes-Benz was sent to Australia when she was 14. LanLan Yang's parents dispatched her to attend high school far away from where she was born and the 23-year-old has rarely returned to her homeland since she was a girl. Details about Yang's mysterious background were revealed for the first time on Friday when she applied to have her bail conditions varied at Sydney's Downing Centre Local Court. It also emerged haute couture-loving Yang suffers 'very considerable' mental health issues and lives a hermit-like existence in her luxurious eastern suburbs penthouse. Yang was allegedly behind the wheel of her Tiffany blue Rolls-Royce Cullinan when it smashed into a Mercedes van driven by chauffeur George Plassaras about 3.30am on July 26 at Rose Bay, a couple of suburbs from her home. Mr Plassaras, who regularly drove for radio king Kyle Sandilands, suffered life-changing injuries including multiple fractures to his legs, hips and spine. Yang was granted bail after agreeing to surrender her passport, report to police three times a week, remain in her Watsons Bay apartment between 8pm and 6am and not drive a car. Barrister John Korn said on Friday his client 'has been the subject of very considerable mental health considerations', which he suggested made complying with her bail conditions difficult. LanLan Yang, the Chinese heiress accused of causing catastrophic injuries to a chauffeur by crashing her $1.5million Rolls-Royce into his Mercedes-Benz, was sent to Australia when she was 14 LanLan Yang (left) was allegedly behind the wheel of her Tiffany blue Rolls-Royce Cullinan in the early hours of July 26 at Rose Bay when she smashed into chauffeur George Plassaras 'She hardly leaves her home,' he told the court. Camera-shy Yang, who has never been photographed without a hat and only once without a face mask, did not appear in court on Friday, either in person or via audio-visual link. In the two months since the crash, conjecture has swirled about Yang's personal circumstances and the source of her apparent wealth. Mr Korn put an end to some of those rumours as he successfully sought to have Yang's curfew lifted and reduce her reporting to police to one day a week. The barrister confirmed to magistrate Megan Greenwood that Yang was a foreign national and permanent resident who was living in Australia as a student. He also said Yang had been sent to Australia for school when she was 14 and she had rarely returned to China. The most serious charge Yang faces is dangerous driving occasioning grievous bodily harm - an offence which carries a maximum penalty of seven years in jail. One count of negligent driving occasioning grievous bodily harm was laid on Tuesday as a back-up charge and she is also accused of refusing or failing to submit to a breath test and not giving particulars to police. Yang, who is on bail and lives at Watson's Bay in the city's east, has gone viral in Australia and China over her extraordinary designer wardrobe and apparently enormous wealth Details about Yang's mysterious background were revealed for the first time on Friday when she applied to have her bail conditions varied. Her Rolls-Royce Cullinan is pictured on Sydney's Broadway A charge of causing bodily harm by misconduct has been withdrawn. There are few publicly available records linking Yang to Australia, and she has declined all requests for comment from journalists. Her mystique grew after the Daily Mail revealed she kept a second Rolls-Royce in the car park of her penthouse apartment, which is registered in the name of a shell company not controlled by her. Yang's case has sparked particular interest among Chinese Australians, attracting scores of them into the city on August 15 to witness the first mention of her case in court. On that day, Yang disappointed her huge new fan base by failing to appear in person and instead appearing briefly on screen from her lawyer's office. One onlooker had told the Daily Mail: 'It's very rare to see, or have the opportunity to see, someone in person who is ultra wealthy and has power.' 'You don't see 23-year-olds who can drive two Rolls-Royces.' On Friday, more than 20 spectators came hoping to see the object of their curiosity but all left before the bail variation application was heard in a separate court room. It emerged on Friday that haute couture-loving Yang suffers 'very considerable' mental health issues and lives a hermit-like existence in her luxurious eastern suburbs penthouse Scores of curious onlookers came into the city on August 15 to attend the first mention of Yang's court case When Mr Korn had first mentioned the case before a registrar and noted the public gallery was packed, she knowingly observed: 'It's crowded for a reason.' Speculation about Yang has surged in China, where she has become the subject of wildly inaccurate claims on platforms such as Douyin and Weibo, as well as in mainstream media reports. Fevered online supposition has suggested Yang used the Anglicised name 'Wendy', and that she was a former University of NSW student whose fortune was derived from iron ore. The Daily Mail shut down another line of inquiry this week, with the owners of a car parts company in South Hurstville registered to a 'Lan Lan Yang' revealing the heiress has no link to the business. 'No, no, no,' said a daughter of the other Ms Yang when asked if there was any family connection. 'She's not the one. I'd be rich if she was. 'We've seen the news. It's a complete coincidence. They have the same name and people have been asking.' The Daily Mail revealed last week that 52-year-old Mr Plassaras might never work again and was being treated at a rehabilitation facility in the eastern suburbs. The crash left Mr Plassaras with a broken spine, two broken hips, two broken femurs, a torn-open abdomen, a ruptured spleen and other life-changing injuries. The crash (above) left Mr Plassaras with a broken spine, two broken hips, two broken femurs, a torn-open abdomen, a ruptured spleen and other life-changing injuries Plassaras (above) was taken to hospital and might never work again, while Yang was charged by police and granted bail under conditions including that she surrender her passport CCTV footage of the collision appeared to show Yang's vehicle veering into oncoming traffic before the head-on impact. A fellow hire car driver who has been in contact with Mr Plassaras told the Daily Mail: 'He's never going to be able to work again.' Another industry figure who has spoken to Mr Plassaras confirmed his employment prospects appeared bleak. 'He has lost his livelihood,' they said. 'His whole world has changed completely and he's on his own. He's got no one. 'He said, "I don't think I'll ever be able to work again". And if he does, he says it would not be for a very long time.' While Mr Plassaras continues his slow road to some sort of recovery, Yang has made no statement about the crash or publicly expressed concern for his welfare. Associates of Mr Plassaras told the Daily Mail they are unaware of Yang making any attempt to contact him. Yang has been spotted being chauffeur-driven around town and was recently photographed having a long lunch with a friend at a harbourside restaurant. On that occasion, she was wearing a $4,326 Louis Vuitton jacket, $3,000 Louis Vuitton cargo pants, $2,600 Hermes ankle boots and $1,220 Louis Vuitton Iconic cap. Yang is due back in court on October 17, when she will be required to enter pleas to all charges. When 81-year-old David Woods passed away in the late winter of last year, a small group of friends and family gathered around a freshly dug plot in the graveyard of the local church and prayed that he would be allowed to rest in peace. Unfortunately, it was soon to transpire that quite the opposite fate awaited the loving father and husband - and what was assumed to be his final resting place would prove anything but. Because, in an extraordinary twist of fate, soon after Mr Woodss burial, the graveyard plot immediately next to his was allotted tohis worst enemy. That enemy was local neer-do-well Daniel Thomas, a career criminal, among whose victims just happened to be Mr Woodss family. So horrified was his widow by this cruel coincidence, that she was moved to take the ultimate remedial course and applied to the High Court for permission to exhume her husbands body. On hearing details of the cruel indignity that blameless Mr Woods had been posthumously exposed to, the Judge in the case granted this very rare dispensation. And so last week the body of David Woods was exhumed from his grave in the churchyard of St Nicholass in the village of Ash in Kent and reburied, with minimal ceremony, in an alternative plot at a greater distance from that of convicted fraudster Daniel Thomas. A legal source told The Daily Mail: This is one of the more unusual or downright bizarre cases I have ever come across - its more like something from Trollope's Barchester chronicles than from 21st century Britain. Pictured: David Woods, who passed away last year and was unfortunately buried next to his worst enemy The old grave plots where David was buried next to his nemesis, Daniel Thomas. His widow applied to the High Court for permission to exhume her husband's body But, having said that, you can entirely see how Mr Woodss widow and daughters would have felt when they learned who had been buried next to him so you can see how they must have felt this was the only option open to them, however unusual. The story began in the first few weeks of the new year in 2024 when Mr Woods died. The elderly Arsenal fan and father-of-two had lived in the village of Ash, a quiet rural spot just inland from the port town of Sandwich, and it was duly arranged that he would be buried in the grounds of his local church, the medieval St Nicholass. And after that unremarkable - but for his widow and two daughters no doubt deeply moving - funeral service last February, that would have been that, had it not been for Mr Woodss nemesis Daniel Thomas, 47, also dying a few months later. There is no suggestion that the trustees of The Canonry Benefice, which administers St Nicholas's and six other churches in the area around Ash, had any idea of any connection between Mr Woods and the local conman when they allocated the latter a plot adjacent to that occupied by the former. But when the widowed Mrs Woods discovered who had been buried next to her husband she was plainly horrified. And so upset was she that subsequent visits to lay flowers at her husbands grave were only undertaken under the cover of darkness so that she would no longer be forced to see the adjacent grave of her husbands enemy. The precise details of just what Daniel Thomas did to incur Mr Woodss abiding hatred remain unclear. What we do know is that it began with him exploiting one of Mr Woodss two daughters, Amanda, 56, and Tracey, 52 - and also that it involved a relatively large sum of money. Thomas was said to have abused and exploited one of these sisters - and attempting to extricate his daughter from the ruinous position she had been left in nearly broke Mr Woods who then spent years paying off the resulting debts. Daniel Thomas (pictured) was a career criminal. One of his victims just happened to be Mr Woods's family In an extraordinary twist of fate, Mr Woods's graveyard plot was allotted immediately next to his worst enemy Woods's widow was granted rare dispensation from the High Court to exhume his body after the judge heard of the cruel indignity to which Mr Woods had been posthumously exposed Last week David Woods's body was exhumed from his grave in the churchyard of St Nicholas's in the village of Ash in Kent And we know that it was sufficiently grave - perhaps an unfortunate expression in this context - for Mr Woodss widow Christine and their two daughters, Tracey and Amanda to tell the court that their husband and father would have been 'seriously upset had he known who was to be buried next to him. No charges were ever brought against Thomas for what he did to the Woods family - but other matters for which he was brought to justice give an insight to the kind of man he was. The known victim in this prosecuted case was a partially blind pensioner living in nearby Sandwich. Thomas had tuned up at the vulnerable elderly mans house offering to clean his gutters for 15. The man declined this offer but despite this a month later Mr Thomas turned up at his home asking for a 250 payment, claiming he had worked on the mans roof, replacing tiles and cleaning gutters. Intimidated and flustered by this brazen but aggressively put lie, the old man hastily cobbled together a portion of the sum demanded - 110 in cash, which he hoped would get Thomas to leave him alone. But bullying Thomas - who later claimed to be dyslexic - demanded the elderly man take him to his bank to retrieve the rest of the money owing. The terrified pensioner complied with this exploitative demand and withdrew a further 140 simply to rid himself of Thomas. But three days later, Thomas turned up at his victims house a third time, soliciting for more work. This time the elderly man refused - and called the police, who quickly worked out that Thomas was a fraudster. He was sent for trial at Canterbury Crown Court in January 2015 and was quickly unanimously convicted by a jury of fraud. As he was sentenced in January 2015, Judge James OMahony described Thomass attempt to talk his way out of being sent to prison as the most dishonest evidence I have ever heard in this court in more years than I care to remember. A friend of Mr Thomas told the Daily Mail that in his later years he put on a lot of weight and died in his sleep. They believe the cause of his death was organ failure, possibly from a heart attack. The source said that in his younger days Mr Thomas was very attractive and that one of Mr Woods's daughters had been infatuated with him and showered him with expensive gifts such as mobile phone. They said he was seeing someone else and it all became 'a bit complicated'. The daughter's parents didn't approve of the relationship, the friend added. On reading the familys petition to be permitted to disinter Mr Woods, a High Court judge this month ruled the matter of the adjacent graves was causing the Woods family a serious distress. To add to the Woods familys distress, the court heard, it had been Mrs Woods intention when her time came to be buried next to husband in the same double depth grave - but now the presence of Thomas had disturbed her plans for eternal rest. Thomas was not named in the High Court case but referred to only as X - but the Daily Mails investigation has learned his identity. The judge ruled: Mrs Woods says Mr Woods would have been seriously upset had he known he would come to be buried alongside X, that she finds this proximity abhorrent and cannot accept that she should come to be laid to rest in due course with her husband but adjacent to X. She says this is a matter of serious distress to her and her family impeding their grieving and healing. He pointed out that the general Church of England view is that a last resting place should be just that unless there are exceptional circumstances or a mistake has been made consent for exhumation is rarely given. But the judge ruled that in this case he agreed that circumstances were exceptional enough for him to grant exceptional permission. The judge qualified that he was not in a position to evaluate the merits or accuracy of the familys accounts of Mr Thomass actions but he accepted the distress that had been caused to them and in the circumstances he was satisfied that it justified the proposed exhumation. David Woods was an elderly Arsenal fan and father-of-two who lived in the village of Ash, a quiet rural spot just inland from the port town of Sandwich A legal source told The Daily Mail: This is one of the more unusual or downright bizarre cases I have ever come across - its more like something from Trollopes Barchester chronicles than from 21st century Britain' And so it was that Mr Woods's remains were disinterred on Wednesday last week. And he was reburied just a few yards further away from his old enemy - the maximum distance available in an historic cemetery where only nine spaces remained. Now the space where Mr Woods's grave used to lie has been turfed over with fresh grass while Mr Thomas's grave remains in place with a small plaque and a stone love heart placed on top. There are spaces for two graves in between the feuding pairs resting place, which is mostly crammed full of centuries-old gravestones. Mr Woods's grave, which was moved only last week, is covered in fresh soil and a small plaque, alongside a new bunch of roses. The judge said the family acknowledged that Mr Woods would still be in fairly close proximity to Mr Thomas but they felt that any distance that could be put between them would help them to feel better. The Woods family declined to comment when approached about the case. But one can only hope that they and Mr Woods can all rest easier now. A hungry customer in Spring, Texas, was left baffled when his Uber Eats order arrived at his door delivered not by a gig worker, but by a uniformed deputy constable. The unusual delivery happened earlier this month after deputies with Constable Mark Herman's Harris County Precinct 4 office conducted a traffic stop in the 2300 block of N. Spring Drive. According to a police statement obtained by Daily Mail, deputies discovered the driver, identified as Ronaldo Carrillo, was operating a vehicle with a paper license plate that did not belong to the car. Carrillo, who was working as an Uber Eats driver at the time, was arrested and booked into Harris County Jail. He was charged with Tampering with a Government Record, with bond set at $100 out of County Court 8. But there was one complication Carrillo was in the middle of dropping off an Uber Eats order when he was taken into custody. To make sure the food reached its destination, Deputy Chapa stepped in to finish the delivery himself. In a Facebook post, Constable Herman's office praised the deputy for his initiative: 'IN CASE YOU MISSED ITCONSTABLES KEEPING COMMUNITY SAFE AND FED!' Deputy Chapa with Harris County Constable Precinct 4 personally delivered the customers food after the Uber Eats driver was arrested mid-order Constable Mark Hermans office shared the unusual story on Facebook, calling it service with a side of law and order The Facebook post continued: 'Deputy Anderson with Constable Mark Herman's Office conducted a traffic stop The driver was quickly arrested after being caught knowingly displaying a fictitious license plate. 'But here's the plot twistthe driver turned out to be an Uber Eats delivery driver mid-order! 'To make sure the hungry customer still got their food, Deputy Chapa stepped up, put on his 'delivery driver' hat, and personally completed the order! Talk about service with a side of law and order. 'Great work by our deputies for not only keeping the community safe, but also going the extra mile (literally) to care for our citizens.' The post, which has since gone viral locally, ended by encouraging residents to download the precinct's crime and safety app. Carrillo later took to Facebook himself to give his side of the story and he struck a much less lighthearted tone. The 20-something Houston-area resident explained that he had recently bought the vehicle and believed the paper plates he was using were valid. 'I never knew that paper plates are not valid no more in Texas, it's my first car I pay off on my own,' he wrote. Ron Carrillo, who was arrested over alleged fictitious plates, later explained his side of the story on Facebook Carillo is pictured above in a Facebook photo. He responded to the police Facebook post 'I got pulled over 2 WEEKS AFTER I BOUGHT THE CAR the officer pulled me over for 'paper plates' and let me go with a VERBAL WARNING. Why in the f*** did he let me go? Idk 2-3 weeks later I get pulled over again and I get ARRESTED and posted all over media.' Carrillo said he has since secured permanent plates for his vehicle and is back on the job. He also joked that officers should have credited him for suggesting they complete the delivery. 'COPS DIDNT EVEN GIVE ME CREDIT FOR GIVING THEM THE IDEA TO TAKE THE DAMN ORDER FOR ME!!!' he wrote, adding: 'Us Mexicans out here hustling no matter the circumstances, bailed out, got my actual plates and back to grinding.' Daily Mail has reached out to Ron Carrillo for comment. 'Anti-ICE' was crudely written in blue ink on unspent shell casings recovered from the rooftop where a gunman opened fire on an Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility in Dallas on Wednesday. Twenty-nine-year-old shooter Joshua Jahn shot indiscriminately on the complex, striking a van, killing one ICE detainee and wounding two others. Then, Jahn shot himself. The targeted political violence coming so soon after the assassination of activist Charlie Kirk has many asking what is behind this sudden wave of killings. As a criminologist and co-founder of the most comprehensive database of US mass shootings, one thing is clear to me, even while much remains unknown about Jahn. The hallmarks of his vile attack in Dallas date back long before Kirk's killing - even before a gunman murdered a health care executive on the streets of Manhattan last year - to 1999 and the Columbine High School massacre. In advance of killing 13 students, one teacher and ultimately themselves, Colorado teenagers Eric Harris and Dylan Klebold documented their preparations on camera. The roughly four-hour 'basement tapes', filmed in the Harris family home, detailed the shooters' motives and plans to take revenge against those they perceived to have wronged them. The recordings were never released to the public and were eventually destroyed. In criminology, these materials left behind by offenders to be discovered by grieving families and investigators are known as 'legacy tokens.' They are twisted artifacts of a crime and intended to justify incomprehensible acts. But equally concerning, these 'legacy tokens' are grasped upon by others. When college student Seung-Hoi Cho shot up Virginia Tech in 2007, killing 32 professors and students, he mailed a video, photos and a written manifesto to the media. It was later reported that Cho, in ninth grade in 1999, was transfixed by reporting on Columbine and even wrote in a school assignment that he wanted to 'repeat Columbine.' In advance of killing 13 students, one teacher and ultimately themselves, Colorado teenagers Eric Harris and Dylan Klebold documented their preparations on camera (Pictured: Medics treating the wounded at Columbine High School in Littleton, Colorado on April 20, 1999) When college student Seung-Hoi Cho (pictured) shot up Virginia Tech in 2007, killing 32 professors and students, he mailed a video, photos and a written manifesto to the media So, what is to be made of these darks artifacts? Often public figures will focus on the beliefs of these killers and certainly the role of irresponsible rhetoric in the motivation of unstable people must be examined but it's a mistake to seek any real meaning in the thoughts of the delusional. If we do we risk missing the bigger picture. One of the most critical things to recognize about most mass shooters is that their self-proclaimed causes do not matter as much as their deep isolation from society. They leave 'legacy tokens' and copy those of others to associate themselves with something anything. Jahn's brother Noah, for example, told NBC News that his brother was unemployed at the time of the shooting and planning to move back into their parents' home. It's also been confirmed that the shooter logged over 10,000 hours playing video games and was obsessed with online culture. These killers often have little positive interaction with mainstream society and while there is obviously no justification for their crimes, they often find connection in the darkest reaches of the web. These are corners where nihilism and depravity are celebrated. It's there that they seek membership. To log 10,000 hours in first-person shooters or immersive strategy games is not trivial. Malcolm Gladwell writes in Outliers that 10,000 hours is the amount of time necessary for mastery in any craft (like playing chess or the violin), except the 'skill' here is inhabiting a virtual world where killing is rewarded with points, achievements, and leaderboard status. Twenty-nine-year-old shooter Joshua Jahn (pictured) shot indiscriminately on the complex, striking a van, killing one ICE detainee and wounding two others. Then, Jahn shot himself I'm not suggesting that games automatically create shooters (far from it!), but it's not a reach to imagine that alienated individuals may begin to see killing as a means of achievement, a way to prove status, a way to belong. Now, we are witnessing the concept of the 'legacy token' evolving from tapes and writings to inscriptions mirroring the online meme culture, which is all about irony, inside jokes, and speaking in code to those 'in the know.' In December, 26-year-old Luigi Mangione, the alleged assassin of United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson, wrote 'Delay,' 'Deny,' and 'Depose' - the title of a book critical of the health insurance industry - on his ammunition. Last month in Minneapolis, Robin Westman, 23, murdered two children and injured 21 others in the Annunciation Church shooting. He covered weapons and ammunition in writings, including antisemitic garbage like, 'six million wasn't enough' and politically charged ramblings like 'kill Donald Trump.' And on September 10, Tyler Robinson, 22, the man accused of gunning down Charlie Kirk on a Utah campus engraved slogans, including 'Hey fascist! Catch!' and phrases from obscure internet forums on shell casings. All of these shooters wrote their garbled messages to feel like they were part of something bigger than themselves, to play to the crowd, feel supported and therefore somehow justified in their actions. Even more troubling, this kinship with atrocity has broken into mainstream thinking with so-called fans of Luigi Mangione rallying outside of his court proceedings and treating him as a hero. Luigi Mangione, the alleged assassin of United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson, wrote 'Delay,' 'Deny,' and 'Depose' - the title of a book critical of the health insurance industry - on his ammunition Tyler Robinson, 22, the man accused of gunning down Charlie Kirk on a Utah campus engraved slogans, including 'Hey fascist! Catch!' I have little doubt that Jahn hoped to link himself to Mangione and Robinson. But he wasn't making an individual statement so much as conforming to a set of vile expectations. I would urge the public and law enforcement not to focus on Jahn's words or try to discern too much from whatever twisted 'ideology' he may have professed. For this is not a left or right-wing issue. It's a sickness of our modern times. If we want to stand any chance of stopping these tragedies, we must understand that it's not the words etched on these bullets that provide a meaningful insight into these shooters, it's the fact that they were written at all. James Densley is the Professor and Department Chair of Criminology and Criminal Justice at Metro State University and co-founder of The Violence Prevention Project Research Center (The Violence Project) at Hamline University. He is the co-author of 'The Violence Project: How to stop a mass shooting epidemic.' Progressive billionaire George Soros and his $32billion Open Society Foundations (OSF) are facing the most serious threat in their decades-long history. This comes as the Justice Department drew up plans last week to investigate the liberal funding giant for everything from arson to material support of terrorism. Speaking exclusively with the Daily Mail, Ryan Mauro - an investigator with the conservative Capital Research Center (CRC) - said the evidence against Soros, 95, was already hiding in plain sight, and prosecutors now have the tools to uncover what he called a 'smoking gun' that has yet to be discovered. '[It] could be an undisclosed bank transaction. It could be a communication. It could be classified intelligence that just hasnt been shared in the right way - but its already out there,' he said. Mauro and his team recently published a bombshell report alleging that the Soros-funded foundation has funneled more than $80million into groups linked to terrorism and extremist violence. That exhaustive 90-page dossier has already been cited by senior DOJ official Aakash Singh as evidence for possible criminal charges. Among the groups named by CRC were the Center for Third World Organizing and its militant partner, The Ruckus Society, which reportedly trained activists in sabotage during the 2020 George Floyd riots. Another recipient, the Sunrise Movement, endorsed the Antifa-linked 'Stop Cop City' campaign in Atlanta, where dozens of activists now face terrorism and racketeering charges. Mauro also alleged that OSF pumped $18million into the Movement for Black Lives, members of which have showed support for Hamas, and another $2.3million into Al-Haq, a Palestinian rights group that critics say supports terrorists - a charge it denies. Liberal megadonor George Soros (front) and his son and heir Alex (behind) face scrutiny in the DOJ's probe about everything from arson to material support of terrorism Soros money flowed to the Antifa-linked 'Stop cop city' protests that saw buildings vandalized and Atlanta police vehicles set ablaze, Mauro said 'A decision has been made by Soros group to continue financing organizations linked to foreign terrorist groups and domestic terrorism, even though people know about it,' Mauro said, warning that such activity crosses a line. 'If I give an organization or individuals money to engage in crime, I am complicit. 'Some of these groups are so blatantly engaged in criminal activity that it does step over the line from opinion into actual conspiracy.' According to The New York Times, Singh has instructed more than a half-dozen US attorneys to explore charges against OSF ranging from racketeering and wire fraud to arson and material support for terrorism. The Soros foundation did not answer requests for comment on Mauro's report. But the group has strongly countered the claims raised by the Justice Department probe. 'These accusations are politically motivated attacks on civil society, meant to silence speech the administration disagrees with and undermine the First Amendment right to free speech,' OSF said in a statement. The group insisted it 'unequivocally condemns terrorism' and that its activities are 'peaceful and lawful.' Soros, a Hungarian-born hedge fund tycoon, founded OSF decades ago to support democracy movements in communist and post-communist countries. By the 1990s, it had expanded into the United States, where it bankrolls progressive causes from racial justice to climate activism. That record has made Soros a villain to the American right, accused of masterminding unrest and violent protests through a sprawling web of nonprofits. Mauro said Soros funding is linked to the groups connected to the George Floyd protests of 2020 Soros money also flowed to Al-Haq, a Palestinian nonprofit with ties to armed militants targeted in this Israeli airstrike, according to Mauro's investigation Ryan Mauro (pictured) investigated Soros for the conservative Capital Research Center In 2023, Soros handed control of the OSF to his son Alex, 39, who has pledged to step up the fight against what he calls authoritarianism at home and abroad. But Mauro warned that Alex - who married Hillary Clinton aide Huma Abedin, 49, in a lavish Hamptons wedding this summer - may have inherited more than just a funding empire. 'The OSF website itself admits it doesnt disclose everything,' Mauro noted. 'If disclosing grants would endanger a grantee or the foundation, they keep it secret. So what weve uncovered is just what theyre comfortable telling the world.' The DOJ probe comes at a fraught political moment as President Trump has repeatedly demanded Soros be jailed, branding him 'an enemy of the American people'. The Times reported that Singh's memo instructs prosecutors to treat the Soros case as a priority, in a stark break from decades of practice meant to shield the DOJ from political interference. Mauro believes the Soros probe will be just the start of a sweeping effort against America's network of Non-Governmental Organizations. 'Theres a real safe harbor for terrorism and extremism within the American nonprofit sector, and you have an entire infrastructure with an unimaginable amount of wealth exploiting that,' he said. Billionaire heir Alex Soros (right) on his honeymoon in Sicily with wife and former Hillary Clinton aide, Huma Abedin (left) George Soros and his son are both among the top prolific fundraisers for the Democratic Party. Alex was named heir to his father's $25billion empire Police arrest a protestor during a 'Stop cop city' protest in Atlanta, Georgia, which researchers say is linked to Soros money 'When pro-terror groups organize and fundraise on Iranian soil, we call it state sponsorship of terrorism. When the same thing happens on US soil in the nonprofit sector, we call it charity.' For Soros and his son, the stakes could not be higher. If federal prosecutors follow Singhs roadmap, they may soon face an unprecedented criminal trial. 'This is a new day,' Mauro said. 'Were not going back to the way it was before.' Introduction: The Politics of Nursing Narratives Nursing is often framed as a profession rooted in compassion, science, and technical skill. Yet beneath these dimensions lies another essential element: the power of narrative. Nurses are not only caregivers but also chroniclers of human suffering, advocates for equity, and witnesses to systemic injustice. The act of writing in nursingwhether through clinical documentation, reflective journaling, research, or storytellingcan be a form of resistance. It challenges silences imposed by institutions, defies hierarchies that devalue nursing voices, and exposes inequities that harm vulnerable populations. Nursing writing services play a central role in amplifying this resistance. By supporting the production, refinement, and dissemination of narratives, they enable nurses to articulate dissent and solidarity in ways that are both persuasive and enduring. In this sense, resistance writing is not simply literary; it is political, ethical, and transformative. Historical Roots of Resistance in Nursing Writing The tradition of resistance writing in nursing has deep historical roots. Florence Nightingale herself used meticulous reports and narrative persuasion to challenge military and governmental negligence during the Crimean War. Later, nurses in colonial and postcolonial BSN Writing Services contexts used written accounts to expose the inequities of racialized care. In contemporary times, nursing narratives have documented the struggles of frontline workers during pandemics, highlighting issues such as unsafe working conditions, resource scarcity, and gender inequities. Nursing writing services help preserve and disseminate these resistant voices, ensuring they are not lost in bureaucratic archives but instead recognized as catalysts for change. By contextualizing contemporary nursing struggles within a lineage of resistance, they affirm that writing has always been a tool of defiance against systemic neglect, exploitation, and silence. Narratives as Counter-Hegemonic Voices Healthcare systems are often dominated by biomedical and administrative discourses that prioritize efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and hierarchical authority. Within such structures, nurses perspectives can be marginalized or dismissed. Resistance writing offers a counter-hegemonic voice that disrupts these dominant narratives. Through case studies, memoirs, and reflective essays, nurses document the lived realities of patients and practitioners that BIOS 255 week 6 respiratory system anatomy institutions may prefer to ignorestories of discrimination, structural violence, and inequitable access to care. Nursing writing services amplify these counter-narratives, helping nurses refine their arguments, locate supportive evidence, and publish in venues where their voices can reach policymakers and broader publics. In doing so, they transform isolated acts of testimony into collective challenges to systemic injustice. Writing as Advocacy for Marginalized Communities Resistance writing in nursing is not only about professional defiance; it is also about advocating for patients and communities who lack platforms for their voices. Marginalized populationssuch as refugees, racial minorities, LGBTQ+ individuals, and economically disadvantaged groupsoften encounter systemic barriers in accessing care. Their struggles are compounded by the silences imposed by institutional documentation that erases their lived realities. BIOS 256 week 5 case study fluid electrolyte acid base Nursing writing services support the creation of narratives that foreground these experiences, reframing them as matters of justice rather than charity. For example, a nurses account of inadequate translation services in a hospital becomes not only a clinical note but also a political document exposing systemic exclusion. In this way, writing becomes activism, and nursing writing services become co-architects of justice-centered communication. Reflective Practice as a Tool of Resistance While advocacy often looks outward, resistance writing also works inward, reshaping how nurses understand themselves and their profession. Reflective writing allows nurses to critique the systemic constraints that shape their daily practicesstaffing shortages, administrative burdens, and the devaluation of care work. Nursing writing services help facilitate these reflections, guiding nurses to articulate not only personal frustrations but also NR 222 week 5 barriers to communication systemic critiques. They help transform private reflections into public narratives that challenge institutional complacency. Through workshops, mentoring, and editorial support, writing services enable nurses to use reflection as resistancewhere personal insights become collective critiques and seeds for reform. In this way, writing empowers nurses to see themselves not as passive participants but as active agents of change. Institutional Resistance and the Role of Publication Institutions often attempt to suppress dissenting voices through bureaucratic procedures, censorship, or subtle discouragement. Yet, the written word has a way of escaping institutional boundaries. Nursing writing services assist nurses in publishing op-eds, research papers, blogs, and books that expose systemic injustices to wider audiences. They ensure that these narratives meet academic, journalistic, or literary standards without SOCS 185 week 7 think globally act locally losing their urgency or authenticity. By bridging professional expertise with public platforms, writing services turn resistance into reform. They also create archives of defiance that future generations can draw upon, ensuring that struggles against injustice are remembered and built upon rather than erased. This institutional challenge through writing reveals the enduring power of the pen in reshaping healthcare landscapes. Conclusion: Writing as Defiance, Writing as Healing Resistance writing is more than oppositionit is also a form of healing. For nurses, writing about injustice provides a means of processing moral distress, reclaiming agency, and finding solidarity with others. For patients and communities, reading these narratives affirms that their struggles are seen and their voices validated. Nursing writing services, by facilitating the creation and circulation of such narratives, play a crucial role in sustaining this dual function of writing as both defiance and healing. They enable nurses to push back against systemic injustice while cultivating hope and resilience. Ultimately, resistance writing underscores the ethical foundation of nursing: a commitment to justice, compassion, and truth. In a world where silence often protects the powerful, nursing narrativescrafted, supported, and amplified by writing servicesbecome acts of courageous defiance, ensuring that care remains inseparable from justice. Tuesday is going to be a difficult occasion for me one of the saddest in my near 80 years on this planet. It is the day when the Imperial War Museum has decided, in its wisdom, to close the gallery bearing my name that houses the largest collection of Victoria Crosses in the world. It has taken me almost 40 years, half of my life, to build this collection of well over 200 VCs and a smaller collection of George Crosses. The decorations the two highest gallantry awards that can be awarded by Britain and the Commonwealth have been displayed at the IWM's Lord Ashcroft Gallery for the past 15 years. Now the museum has decided to use the space to show more of the 33 million items in its possession for displays relating to more recent conflicts no doubt in keeping with its stated aim of 'embedding diversity' into its exhibitions. Little wonder that critics of the decision now dub the institution the 'Imperial Woke Museum'. Since the IWM announced its intention in February, I have been inundated with messages of support saying that it is plain wrong. Others have claimed that the closure insults the recipients of the VC and GC, both living and dead, whose medal groups will now be placed under lock and key in a secure vault away from public view. Lord Michael Ashcroft at the Imperial War Museum with medals belonging to Captain Noel Chavasse, one of only three men in the entire history of the VC to be awarded the decoration twice known as a VC and Bar The VC is Britain and the Commonwealth's premier medal for gallantry in the presence of the enemy. The GC is Britain and the Commonwealth's premier medal for bravery not in the presence of the enemy. Behind every award of the medal is an incredible tale of valour and it is these inspirational stories that have gripped tens of thousands of visitors to the gallery since it was officially opened by HRH The Princess Royal in 2010. As of this Tuesday, visitors to the IWM in south London will no longer be able to learn about the heroic Second World War exploits of Sergeant Norman Jackson when his Lancaster aircraft was hit by enemy fire during a bombing raid over Germany in April 1944. With a fierce blaze near a fuel tank on the upper surface of the starboard wing, Jackson, though already wounded by shrapnel from the enemy shells, volunteered to climb out of the escape hatch above the pilot's head, having placed a fire extinguisher in the top of his life jacket in order to try to put out the blaze. As he climbed out, his parachute pack opened and the canopy and rigging lines spilled into the cockpit. With the Lancaster travelling at 200mph at 20,000ft, other crew members fed out the rigging lines of his parachute as he climbed on to the fuselage and set about tackling the blaze. However, the fire extinguisher slipped from his grasp and was blown away. Chavasse was first awarded the VC for his actions in August 1916 at Guillemont, France, when he attended to the wounded all day under heavy fire Jackson himself fared little better and his face, hands and clothing were severely burnt. Unable to retain his hold, he was swept through the flames and over the trailing edge of the wing, dragging his parachute behind. When last seen, his parachute was only partly inflated and burning in places. At this point, the captain ordered the remaining crew to abandon the aircraft. Jackson could not control his descent and broke an ankle landing heavily. At daybreak and by this point in a pitiful state, he crawled to the nearest village where he was soon taken as a prisoner of war. He spent the next ten months in hospital before being incarcerated and he was eventually released at the end of the war. The citation for Jackson's VC, announced shortly after his release, concluded: 'By his ready willingness to face these dangers he set an example of selfsacrifice which will ever be remembered.' As of this Tuesday, visitors to the IWM will also no longer be able to learn about the courage of Captain Noel Chavasse during the First World War. A onetime Olympic athlete who was a regimental medical officer on the Western Front, Chavasse's place in the history books is guaranteed because he is one of only three men in the entire history of the VC to be awarded the decoration twice known as a VC and Bar. One of identical twin boys and an Oxford graduate, he was an officer in the Royal Army Medical Corps and his devotion to duty defied belief. Chavasse was first awarded the VC for his actions in August 1916 at Guillemont, France, when he attended to the wounded all day under heavy fire. During the ensuing night, he searched for wounded on the ground in front of the enemy's lines for four hours. Altogether, he saved the lives of some 20 badly wounded men. Visitors to the IWM will no longer be able to learn about the heroic Second World War exploits of Sergeant Norman Jackson when his Lancaster aircraft was hit by enemy fire during a bombing raid over Germany in 1944 (pictured with his wife at Buckingham Palace to receive his Victoria Cross) Sergeant Jackson's Victoria Cross. His citation read: 'By his ready willingness to face these dangers he set an example of selfsacrifice which will ever be remembered' His second VC, the Bar, was awarded for three days of relentless gallantry during the third Battle of Ypres in Belgium also known as the Battle of Passchendaele during late July and early August 1917. Although badly wounded himself, he spent day and night under fire rescuing badly injured men. Chavasse died in a medical dressing station from his wounds that August, aged 32, and so the Bar to his first VC was awarded posthumously. These are just two of the many astonishing stories that are linked to my VC and GC collection. I like to regard the recipients of these two medals as 'the bravest of the brave' because they have all risked their lives for their country, their monarch, their comrades or for wider freedoms. I feel deeply moved when I learn of the selfsacrifice of Jackson, Chavasse and others like them. Their medal groups and the memorabilia that often accompanies them are a tangible memento of an individual's service and bravery. My own interest in valour dates back some 70 years. When I was aged about ten, my father Eric, who was a modest man, told me about his own experiences as a young officer during the DDay landings of June 6 1944. He described crossing the English Channel in a state of fear and then running up Sword Beach during the early stages of the Normandy Campaign, when his commanding officer was shot dead at his side. Later that morning, my father was wounded by shrapnel but fought on until ordered from the battlefield. My VC and GC collection is valued at around 70million and I had made arrangements to gift it to the IWM when I die. All that changed earlier this year when I discovered that the IWM had decided to close the Lord Ashcroft Gallery Over time, my passion for bravery transformed itself into a fascination with gallantry medals, those dating back to the institution of the VC by Queen Victoria in 1856. As a young entrepreneur, I decided that one day, if my finances permitted, I would like to buy a VC. In fact, I purchased my first such decoration at an auction in London in 1986 when I was 40. I soon decided that I would like to build a collection of VCs and that, when the time was right, I would put it on public display so that the decorations could be enjoyed by visitors from all around the world. Over time this collection, built up sensitively and discreetly, amassed gallantry medals from virtually every major conflict of the past 170 years. As my collection grew, I felt that it was important to display the decorations at a truly special location. After lengthy discussions, I settled on the Imperial War Museum in London which, according to its website, 'gives voice to the extraordinary experiences of ordinary people forced to live in a world torn apart by conflict'. However, when I initially offered to loan the decorations to the IWM, it insisted that I must pay for the gallery housing my VC and GC collection, along with a smaller number of VCs and GCs that were already in the care of the museum. I went along with those wishes, spending 5 million to create the Lord Ashcroft Gallery, with its 'Extraordinary Heroes' exhibition, which seeks to 'intrigue, inspire and amaze by retelling forgotten stories of great bravery from the Crimean War to the present day'. It is more than a little galling that although the IWM no longer wants my medal collection, it will keep the gallery that I paid for to house its other exhibitions (pictured, Lord Ashcroft Gallery) It is more than a little galling that although the IWM no longer wants my medal collection, it will keep the gallery that I paid for to house its other exhibitions. My VC and GC collection is valued at around 70million and I had made arrangements to gift it to the IWM when I die. All that changed earlier this year when I discovered, through an intermediary, that the IWM had decided to close the Lord Ashcroft Gallery. Initially, it was due to shut down at the end of May but I 'persuaded' the IWM, by threatening legal action, to keep the gallery open for the full term of the loan agreement until the end of September. Incidentally, a friend of mine paid a last visit to the gallery earlier this month and said it had 30 to 40 visitors at any one time while he was there. When he popped into the 'Unsilenced: Sexual Violence In Conflict' exhibition, there was just one person, a student. Some fear the gallery will become even more woke following the appointment of three more trustees by the Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer, earlier this year. None of these trustees, whose fouryear term will run until 2029, has a military background. One of the trustees, Professor Dame Janet Beer, an academic, was awarded her damehood 'for services to higher education and equality and diversity'. As a museum dedicated to military history, I appreciate that the IWM has to examine other aspects to war and conflict apart from bravery. Some people are interested by military equipment, military tactics, the analysis of battles and much more, but I would argue that nothing inspires a museum audience of this nature as much as tales of gallantry. As Aristotle put it as long ago as the 4th century BC: 'Courage is the first of human qualities because it's the quality which guarantees the others.' Or, as our great wartime prime minister, Winston Churchill, stated: 'Without courage all other virtues lose their meaning.' Every man or woman desires to be looked upon by his or her peers as brave because those who display bravery are, quite rightly, admired by society. Courage is a truly outstanding quality, yet it is so difficult to understand. You can't accurately measure it, and you certainly can't bottle or buy it. I fear for the future of the IWM if it starts to downplay the value of courage and gallantry medals and instead starts to embrace woke issues in its stated desire 'to share more stories of conflicts that are within many of our visitors' living memory'. The IWM has not gone so far as to 'cancel' the First and Second World Wars, or earlier wars, but the shift in its priorities rings loud and clear. Frankly, if it is now considered oldfashioned to want to champion the qualities of courage along with the values of duty, loyalty, sacrifice and humility, then I am more than happy to be regarded as out of touch with the times. However, I suspect that in the long run, the 'wokeification' of the IWM will run its course and one day it will bow to a public clamour for this oncegreat institution to go back to doing what it has done best for more than a century: being the world's leading museum on war and conflict. Part of that role a very major part in my view involves highlighting the gallantry of servicemen and women in war. In time, I will find a suitable alternative venue for the VC and GC collection that I am the proud custodian of but, as of this week, it will disappear from public view for the foreseeable future. My stream of messages from so many people in recent months makes me convinced that our nation, and not just the IWM, will be a poorer place without it. Prince Harry last night lambasted 'men in grey suits' at Buckingham Palace, accusing aides of trying to sabotage his reconciliation with the King. The Duke's furious broadside is an extraordinary echo of his mother Princess Diana's criticism of shadowy royal courtiers who she also derided as 'the men in grey suits' and accused of undermining her. Harry is understood to be infuriated at what he sees as a concerted campaign by unnamed Palace officials to torpedo his efforts to strike a rapprochement with his father by giving hostile briefings to newspapers. 'The relationship between the Duke and His Majesty The King is a matter for the two of them and the two of them only,' a source close to the Duke told The Mail on Sunday. 'The men in grey suits should stay out of it.' The increasingly bitter war of words between Harry's camp and Palace officials erupted after this newspaper revealed last weekend that talks were under way between aides to gradually bring the King and his younger son together in a public show of unity. The MoS disclosed that as part of cautious plans to foster a reconciliation, the Duke might take part in more public events in Britain, though not as a working member of the Royal Family. Details of the talks came after Harry spent 50 minutes with the King at Clarence House earlier this month their first face-to-face meeting in 18 months. Prince Harry has lambasted 'men in grey suits' at Buckingham Palace, accusing aides of trying to sabotage his reconciliation with the King Prince Harry is seen leaving Clarence House after meeting his father King Charles III on September 10 But within hours of the MoS publishing its story, insiders began briefing journalists that Harry will never be allowed to return as a 'half-in, half-out' working royal despite such a claim not appearing in this newspaper's report. In a waspish comment about the significance of the Duke's meeting with Charles, one unnamed source suggested those in Team Harry had 'mistaken a brief tea and a slice of cake for the Treaty of Versailles'. On Saturday, in a further apparent escalation, The Sun newspaper claimed that Prince Harry's meeting with his father had been 'distinctly formal' and that the Duke had later described the meeting as 'very official, like an official visit'. It cited insiders claiming that the 'awkward exchange' was carried out in a similar style to that of dignitaries visiting royal residences. The newspaper pointedly reported that Charles's meeting with his son was his shortest of the day and claimed there were no plans for father and son to be seen together in public. When the newspaper declined to retract the quotes on Saturday, the Duke's spokesman issued a stinging statement, saying: 'Recent reporting of the Duke's view of the tone of the meeting is categorically false. 'The quotes attributed to him are pure invention fed, one can only assume, by sources intent on sabotaging any reconciliation between father and son.' The spokesman also claimed that 'presumably, those same sources' had inaccurately told The Sun that Harry had handed his father a framed photograph of himself with wife Meghan and their children Archie, six, and Lilibet, four, to mark the reunion. The monarch was said to have given his younger son an early birthday present, six days ahead of his 41st birthday. The spokesperson said: 'While we would have preferred such details to remain private, for the sake of clarity we can confirm that a framed photograph was handed over, however the image did not contain the Duke and Duchess.' Harry has long railed against senior Palace courtiers who he claims are behind negative stories about him and his wife Meghan. In his excoriating memoir, Spare, he referred to a mysterious trio he named 'Bee, Wasp and Fly', who he said handled the tense negotiations that resulted in him and Meghan stepping down from public duties and moving to California in 2020. The Duke's furious broadside is an extraordinary echo of his mother Princess Diana's criticism of shadowy royal courtiers who she also derided as 'the men in grey suits' and accused of undermining her 'I'd spent my life dealing with courtiers, scores of them,' Harry wrote. 'But now I dealt mostly with just three, all middle-aged white men who'd managed to consolidate power through a series of bold Machiavellian manoeuvres.' Such criticisms echo those of his mother Diana who was said to have described courtiers who briefed against her during the breakdown of her marriage to Charles as the 'men in grey suits'. A year ago, the Sussexes launched 'Operation Bring Harry Back In From The Cold' a strategy to win back the trust of the Royal Family. It followed a tumultuous few years dominated by the hugely damaging allegations made by the Sussexes about the Royal Family in their interview with Oprah Winfrey in 2021 and their Netflix series as well as those Harry made in his memoir. The campaign to rebuild trust and thaw relations received a major boost in July when two of Harry's key aides met one of the King's top advisers. Then, on September 10, the King and Harry finally met at Clarence House. The MoS understands Harry plans to come to the UK 'four or five times' a year from now on. His aides are said to be working towards the goal of seeing the Duke appear in public with the King at the Invictus Games in Birmingham in 2027. In the meantime, he has made it clear that during the coming year 'the focus really has to be on my dad'. The Duke is even said to be living in hope that Prince William might attend the event. Such a move may, however, prove impossible. One well-placed insider told the MoS earlier this month: 'William is back at the point where if you mention Prince Harry in his presence he would throw you out of the room.' The Sun stood by its claims on Saturday. A spokesman said: 'In his statement, Prince Harry confirms the exchange of gifts, including a family photograph. 'The office of the Duke of Sussex was given full right of reply in advance of publication and opted not to give a response to The Sun's carefully sourced account. We have today updated the online article to include his new statement.' Buckingham Palace declined to comment. Erin Brockovich is calling on leaders in Indiana to step up after hearing disturbing reports of 'fluorescent yellow' tap water flowing into residents' homes. The water problem, centered in the town of Lapel, came to Brockovich's attention after Brianna Davis, a concerned resident and mother, contacted her directly following months of unanswered questions and ineffective responses from local and state officials. 'This story starts with Brianna Davis,' the environmental activist wrote in a scathing report. 'She's been dealing with water that looks scary and undrinkable. Like any concerned parent, she contacted city officials, the EPA, and the Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM).' Davis, who has lived in the area for five years, described the water running from her faucets as 'fluorescent yellow' - likening it to urine in her bathtub. 'It almost looked like urine in the bath,' she told FOX59/CBS4. Despite repeated assurances from town officials that the water is safe and needs no boiling, Davis says state and federal experts have told her the opposite. 'I called the EPA and IDEM, and they both told me that it is not advisable to drink discolored water,' she said. 'Is it legal? Yes. But is it safe for us? No.' Erin Brockovich, known for exposing one of the largest water contamination scandals in U.S. history, is calling on leaders in Indiana to step up after hearing disturbing reports of 'fluorescent yellow' tap water flowing into residents' homes Lapel, Indiana locals shared pictures of the discolored water with the environmental activist, likening the color to 'urine' IDEM insists water samples meet the Safe Drinking Water Act's minimum standards. They've attributed the discoloration to 'routine hydrant flushing,' a claim repeated by the Madison County Health Department. However, Brockovich - known for exposing one of the largest water contamination scandals in US history - and local residents argue that compliance with federal limits doesn't necessarily mean safety. 'There's a big difference,' Davis said. 'We deserve water that is truly safe, not just legally compliant.' IDEM maintains that only 'isolated complaints' have been received, however, community members claim differently, One resident, Danielle Flanigan, took to Facebook to share her concerns, along with pictures of the 'urine-colored' water flowing from her faucet. 'This is what Lapel and many other Madison county towns are dealing with. I was in the shower when this happened. How the hell is this ok? They're saying it's considered 'safe' to drink, cook and shower in. I call BULLS***.' Flanigan added that her water bill has increased significantly because she's forced to let the tap run until the water flows clear. Brianna Davis, who has lived in the area for five years, described the water running from her faucets as 'fluorescent yellow' Despite repeated assurances from town officials that the water is safe and needs no boiling, Davis says state and federal experts have told her the opposite. Pictured: Discolored water flowing from Brianna Davis' bathtub in Lapel, Indiana The Indiana Department of Environmental Management 'insists water samples meet the Safe Drinking Water Act's minimum standards, attributing the discoloration to 'routine hydrant flushing.' Pictured: Discolored water seen in Brianna Davis' Lapel, Indiana home 'I'm stuck having to waste gallons of water (running it) until it clears, multiple times a month. l'm stuck paying HIGH water bills. 'I have to deal with it ruining my tub, sink, washer, clothes etc. My child and I have to shower in this sh**. We should not have to deal with this.' Brockovich has since criticized town leaders for failing to act meaningfully and called on them to take accountability. 'The residents of these communities deserve more than bureaucratic deflection; they deserve clean water, honest answers, and leaders who prioritize public health,' Brockovich said. 'The burden for the discoloration and concern for the Lapel water falls upon you as leaders,' Brockovich added, echoing the words of another resident, identified only as Stephanie, who voiced her anger at a September 18 Lapel Town Council meeting. 'The water concerns in the town of Lapel are growing increasingly worse,' Stephanie told the council. One resident, Danielle Flanigan, took to Facebook to share her concerns, along with pictures of the 'urine-colored' water flowing from her sink's faucet Stephanie also accused the council of mismanaging grant funds meant to resolve the water issues and criticized them for staying silent as conditions worsened. Pictured: Lapel Town Hall in Lapel, Indiana 'Right now, nothing else should matter besides the health and safety of our local citizens.' Stephanie also accused the council of mismanaging grant funds meant to resolve the water issues and criticized them for staying silent as conditions worsened. 'Doing nothing because we don't know is not an option,' she said. 'It's no longer acceptable to let days and weeks and months pass by while community residents experience these water conditions week after week.' One man even brought a jug of discolored water directly from his home to the meeting. 'Don't look too good to me,' he said plainly. Yet town officials offered little in the way of immediate solutions. One council member urged residents to stop posting on Facebook and instead report individual issues to town hall, while another claimed outside engineers were involved and testing met all required standards. 'Simply giving no answers and no resolution and communicating nothing is not acceptable,' Stephanie said. 'It's not acceptable behavior as a leader, and it's not acceptable to the people.' Elon Musk has denied any involvement with disgraced pedophile Jeffrey Epstein after his name came up in reports associated with newly released documents. Partial records associated with Epstein were released on Friday by Democrats on the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, which included a mention of Musk, seemingly scheduled to visit the island on December 6, 2014. In response to an article on the release, which said 'Elon Musk and Prince Andrew named in latest Epstein files release', the SpaceX founder wrote on X: 'Shame on Sky News for this utterly misleading headline. 'Anyone pushing this false narrative deserves complete contempt. Epstein tried to get me to go to his island and I REFUSED, yet they name me even before Prince Andrew, who did visit'. Musk also hit back at a Forbes article that claimed he had planned a trip to the island, writing on X: 'This is false'. The documents, which included phone messages, flight logs, financial ledgers, and Epstein's daily schedule, including mention figures such as Musk, billionaire Peter Thiel, Trump ally Steve Bannon, Microsoft founder Bill Gates, and Prince Andrew. One of the documents revealed Epstein's schedule for the first week of December 2014 with a reminder that read: 'Elon Musk to island Dec. 6 (is this still happening?)'. Elon Musk slammed an article on X as a 'false narrative' for reporting that he was named in the latest Epstein files release The documents, which included a calendar of Epstein's, named Musk as having a seemingly scheduled visit to the island on December 6, 2014 A note on December 5 read: 'TBD TENTATIVE BREAKFAST Party w/Bill Gates (invited Ron Baron and Josh Harris... awaiting reply)'. Epstein had also noted breakfast plans with Bannon and lawyer Reid Weingarten on February 16, 2019, in New York, as well as lunch plans on November 27, 2017, with Thiel. The unveiled records included redacted flight logs and a passenger manifest that noted Prince Andrew would be flying with Ghislaine Maxwell, Epstein, two redacted names, a man named Adam Perrylang, and a bodyguard from New Jersey to Florida. Daily Mail has reached out to representatives for Musk, Theil, Bannon, and Gates for comment. Musk has vehemently denied having a relationship with Epstein and even revealed that Donald Trump's name was on the list when he left his position as the chief of the Department of Government Efficiency in June. He later deleted the tweet and said it 'went too far,' but continued to publicly call on the administration to release the files. Musk wrote on X in July that the decision not to release the documents was 'a cover up (obviously), in response to a tweet that called the controversy a 'hoax'. 'How can people be expected to have faith in Trump if he wont release the Epstein files?' he said in a separate tweet. Prominent Republicans and Democrats have called on the Trump administration to release the documents (Pictured: President Trump and First Lady Melania with Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell in 2000) Musk also responded to a post from journalist James O'Keefe that read: 'With Epstein there's either nothing else there. OR The revelations contained therein could bring down the entire Government'. 'So many powerful people want that list suppressed,' Musk replied. The Epstein files have long been a point of controversy in the Trump administration, following the president's promise of releasing them to the public on the campaign trail. During FBI director Kash Patel's confirmation hearing, he vowed to the Senate that if confirmed, he would make sure the public was fully aware of Epstein's sex trafficking rings. Attorney General Pam Bondi later said in an interview on Fox News that the disgraced financier's client list was 'sitting on my desk right now to review'. A shocking report from The Wall Street Journal, published in May, claimed that Bondi told Trump his name appeared multiple times in the files. Musk has vehemently denied connections to Epstein, claiming that he refused to go to the disgraced pedophile's island Microsoft founder Bill Gates, billionaire Peter Thiel, and Trump ally Steve Bannon were also mentioned in the recent batch of released files In July, the Department of Justice released a memo stating that there was no client list, which resulted in significant bipartisan backlash. Oversight Spokesperson Sara Guerrero recently called on Bondi to release all the files, adding that Democrats on the committee wouldn't stop until everyone was identified. 'It should be clear to every American that Jeffrey Epstein was friends with some of the most powerful and wealthiest men in the world,' she added. 'Every new document produced provides new information as we work to bring justice for the survivors and victims'. A young student has died after shooting themselves dead with a gun they brought to a field trip. Ninth graders at Canyon View Junior High were on a class outing to South Fork Park at Provo Canyon on September 24. The unidentified student pulled the trigger on a weapon that they'd brought from home in front of their teachers and classmates. According to a statement from the Utah County Sheriff's Office, the unnamed student was 'fatally injured' from the self-inflicted gun shot. They were quickly airlifted to the hospital and their parents were notified, but the student died from their injuries shortly after. As soon as the shot rang out, staff members called emergency services and moved the other students away from the scene. No one else was harmed. According to Fox 13, school was dismissed early that day and more than 300 students took school busses up to the canyon. The Sheriff's office said: 'The tragic incident is still actively investigated by Utah County Sheriff Office Detectives, and we will not be releasing the name of the student at this time.' A ninth grade student from Canyon View Junior High shot and killed themselves in front of their classmates Wednesday Utah County Sheriff ruled the students death as a suicide and are investigating why they were allowed access to a firearm and what lead to such a tragic death Ninth grader and witness Ian Campbell described the moments leading up to the shooting to ABC 4. He said: 'I remember I was playing spike ball with my friend, and then I just heard a loud pop. 'I didnt think much of it, but eventually, I saw that a lot of people were running, and I saw that a lot of teachers rushed over.' He said it happened as they were wrapping up to leave. Classes continued as usual the following Thursday and Friday, but parent conferences that were supposed to take place in the evening were cancelled. A group of middle schoolers have already set up a memorial with flowers, signs, and candles to honor their fallen classmate. Students from Canyon View Junior High had been released early from school that day to enjoy the autumn weather at South Fork Park (stock image) Students from the school already set up memorials for their fallen classmate In a statement obtained by the Daily Herald, the school said: 'We are heartbroken as a school district at the passing of one of our students today, a 9th grader who went to Canyon View Junior High. 'We offer deepest condolences to the students family and friends.' The school district will be offering counseling services to all students and teachers for as long as they're needed in order to help them process the traumatic violence. Alpine School district said: 'We are working with law enforcement, medical personnel, and counseling experts to navigate this tragic situation.' Police have asked some witnesses preliminary questions, but they are being given time to grieve before being interrogated for the ongoing investigation. The investigation hopes to reveal where the student got the firearm and what led to them killing themselves so publicly. Daily Mail reached out to Utah County Sherriff's Office and Alpine School District for comment. A citizen of the year has fought to clear her name after she was falsely accused of faking her cancer and siphoning money from a charity by online conspiracy theorists. The witch hunt against Sydney northern beaches mum-of-three Rachael Jackson, 47, began on a popular Facebook group which has since been shut down by police and state MPs. Members of the group framed Ms Jackson as the new Belle Gibson, the Victorian cancer and wellness scammer whose exploits inspired the 2025 Netflix series Apple Cider Vinegar. Following months of harmful speculation and online abuse, Ms Jackson has taken the drastic step of releasing personal health records verifying her cancer diagnosis to the National News Network. Ms Jackson said the campaign against her got so bad she became suicidal late last year and continues to sleep with a knife under her pillow. She claimed she became a target after she began posting on Facebook community pages about the challenges she faced affording rent as a single mum in Sydney. She also said an element of 'tall poppy syndrome' added to the hate, following her selection as the Northern Beaches Citizen of the Year in 2023. 'Its a wealthy community, and these people are wealthy people and they just piled on,' Ms Jackson said. Rachael Jackson (pictured) was falsely accused of faking cancer and siphoning charity donations in a vicious social media campaign 'They wanted to run me off the beaches. At the end of last year, I was suicidal. 'It was a witch hunt.' Among the false claims circulated by the group were that Ms Jackson lied about being diagnosed with cancer and was at risk of losing her leg. The 47-year-old has been forced to share medical records to prove the conspiracy theorists wrong. Her cancer surgeon, Dr Anthony Glover, confirmed Ms Jackson suffered thyroid cancer which spread to her lymph nodes and caused vocal cord damage. Her GP, Dr Frank Brennan, said she was afflicted by Tenosynovial Giant Cell Tumour, with benign tumours growing in her leg. Dr Brennan confirmed Ms Jackson had undergone one of three required surgeries and that, worst case, it may require an amputation. Members of the group also falsely accused her of siphoning money from GoFundMe fundraisers and using donations to pay for her four-bedroom rental home, holidays and private school fees. Ms Jackson, who was crowned the Northern Beaches Citizen of the Year in 2023, claimed the hate was fuelled by a touch of 'tall poppy syndrome' GoFundMe and a number of charities have since confirmed Ms Jackson did not have access to donations and could not have done so. The campaign went beyond social media and culminated in criminal charges against two individuals for confronting her at her home and by phone. Ms Jackson was followed in the street, to cafes and the chemist, with people taking photos and videos of the single mum in an effort to gather 'evidence' against her. Spurred on by an escalation in the campaign, police told Ms Jackson to install security cameras at home and to avoid community events. While the false accusations against Ms Jackson have been proven baseless, some of the damage wrought by the campaign may be irreversible. 'I feel very cautious everywhere I go,' Ms Jackson said. 'I dont know whether people are taking photos of me. 'I feel very betrayed by my own community, because people have been gossiping about me and they have damaged my reputation. Belle Gibson rose to prominence in 2012 as a self-proclaimed health guru who had 'cured' her own brain cancer through healthy eating, clean living and 'positive thinking' 'Ive lost friends over it. People think there must be some truth to it, but there isnt.' Daily Mail contacted Ms Jackson for comment. Gibson rose to prominence in 2012 as a self-proclaimed health guru who had 'cured' her own brain cancer through healthy eating, clean living and 'positive thinking'. Within a year, her inspirational Instagram account @healing_belle had amassed thousands of followers, many of them hopeful cancer sufferers, who would go on to download her wellness app, The Whole Pantry, and buy her cookbook of the same name. Throughout it all, Gibson claimed her earnings reportedly more than $1 million - would be donated to various cancer charities. But there was just one big problem: Gibson never had cancer, and eventually her empire came crashing down after two Australian journalists discovered she had been lying about it all not just her disease, but her philanthropy too. Despite swindling millions, Gibson never faced any jail time. After a drawn-out case in the Federal Court of Australia, she was ordered to pay AU$410,000 (US$257,000) for her false claims of charitable donations. Combined with her legal fees, she faced a total payout of about half a million dollars (US$313,000). Eight years on, she has not paid that fine. A father and influencer has responded to intense online criticism after a video of him throwing his 7-year-old son off a cliff went viral. Garrett Gee, the patriarch behind the the well-known The Bucket List Family, posted the controversial video in July 2025 during a family trip to Lake Powell - a reservoir which straddles the border between northern Arizona and southern Utah. The clip shows Gee standing on a high cliff with his elementary-aged son, Calihan, who appears nervous, shielding his face and turning away from the edge. Moments later, Gee lifts him up and tosses him into the water below, prompting immediate backlash across social media platforms. Rather than responding defensively, the father-of-three acknowledged why people might be upset, while also doubling down on his parenting approach. 'A small part of me felt sad when I would read the comments because you could tell how many people out there didn't have the opportunity to be pushed by their parents to try new things and stayed within their comfort zone,' he told People. 'That's not the best way to live life.' Gee added that the online criticism didn't affect him 'negatively in any way.' The father and influencer behind The Bucket List Family has responded to intense online criticism after a video of him throwing his 7-year-old son off a cliff went viral. Pictured: Garrett Gee with his wife, Jessica, and their three children, Dorothy, Manilla and Calihan The clip shows Gee standing on a high cliff with his elementary-aged son, Calihan, who appears nervous, shielding his face and turning away from the edge 'I'm very confident in who me and my wife are as parents and our intentions and how careful, cautious and loving we are,' he explained. 'It didn't affect me. I understand the nature of the internet.' The 35-year-old dad has since made it clear that the backlash hasnt shaken him - and hes encouraging anyone who saw the clip in isolation to explore more of the familys content for a better understanding of his perspective. 'If somebody came across that video and had only seen that video, then I agree with them,' Gee said, adding, 'but anyone who has followed our journey for a longer time, they understand how thoughtful and cautious we are as parents.' And while his parenting methods may not be for everyone, Gee is unapologetically clear on his stance. 'Teaching your kids to be brave starts to backfire when they become older and begin jumping from heights that you don't even dare,' he joked. 'Be safe out there! You can do hard things! Have fun!' Over the past decade, The Bucket List Family has traveled to over 100 countries, documenting everything from shark dives to sledding in Italy. Gee first rose to prominence in 2015 after selling his app, Scan, to Snapchat for $54 million. The clip sparked backlash across social media platforms - and rather than responding defensively, the father-of-three acknowledged why people might be upset, while also doubling down on his parenting approach The 35-year-old dad has since made it clear that the backlash hasnt shaken him - and hes encouraging anyone who saw the clip in isolation to explore more of the familys content for a better understanding of his perspective Over the past decade, The Bucket List Family has traveled to over 100 countries, documenting everything from shark dives to sledding in Italy (pictured) He and his wife Jessica, 39, later sold their belongings, left their home state of Utah, and began traveling full-time with their children - and their YouTube and Instagram channels have since drawn millions of followers. For those considering a similar path, he advises starting small. 'Go on a fun adventure in your own backyard and then something in your own region and just build from there to make sure it's what you want to do,' he said. 'We went the extreme route and sold everything and left home. Luckily, we loved it, but it is not for everyone.' Antiques Roadshow veteran Andy McConnell has revealed how show staff were outraged when BBC bosses told them they wanted to appoint new presenters to meet diversity targets. The 72-year-old, who has been valuing antique glass on the show since 2005, recalled a meeting in which a producer said that the 'BBC hierarchy' wanted to see more presenters who were women, gay or people of colour to meet 'percentage targets'. Fan favourite Mr McConnell, who has said publicly that he fears his 'days are numbered' on the BBC1 Sunday evening programme he loves, claimed the comments provoked uproar among the attendees. He said: 'They were followed by a riot because one of the presenters, who is actually gay, stood up and said, "Hang on, if you are pushing positive discrimination for gay people how come I have gone down from five to three shows this year"? 'The producer actually asked if the person had told them they were gay. That remark just provoked further outrage. 'Another contributor said, "Do we now actually have to declare our sexuality to the BBC'?" The briefing for the entire Antiques Roadshow team took place in London in 2018. The BBC launched its diversity drive after Ofcom reported that year that fewer than half of the broadcaster's staff were women. Antiques Roadshow veteran Andy McConnell (above) revealed how show staff were outraged when BBC bosses told them they wanted to appoint new presenters to meet diversity targets Last week, at a talk in Somerset, titled Banter With Bonkers, the antiques expert said the diversity drive had created an atmosphere in which comments and complaints were blown out of proportion. He added the BBC had reprimanded him at least ten times for his allegedly un-PC behaviour on the show. A BBC spokesperson said: 'We... do not condone such ill-judged interpretations of what is an inclusive workplace. 'We are proud of all work to create an inclusive workplace.' Donald Trump's plan to end the war in Palestine seemed to stall yesterday after the terrorist ruling group Hamas said it had not received any ceasefire proposals from the US President. On Friday, Mr Trump told reporters while departing the White House: 'It's looking like we have a deal on Gaza, and we'll let you know. I think it's a deal that will get the hostages back. 'It's going to be a deal that will end the war.' But as Israeli forces expanded their assault on Gaza City yesterday, a Hamas official insisted: 'Hamas has not been presented with any plan.' The conflict began on October 7, 2023, with an attack by Hamas which killed 1,200 Israelis and saw 251 taken hostage. A hopeful Mr Trump added on Friday: 'It's going to be peace. I think we have a deal.' And the Israeli newspaper Haaretz reported that, under Mr Trump's plan, Hamas had agreed in principle to release all the Israeli hostages it still holds in return for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, and the gradual withdrawal of Israeli troops. Also included in the proposal was the end of Hamas rule in Gaza, and Israel agreeing not to annex the territory and drive out Palestinians living there, according to the newspaper. On Friday, Donald Trump told reporters while departing the White House: 'It's looking like we have a deal on Gaza , and we'll let you know' Displaced Palestinians move with their belongings southwards on a road in the Nuseirat refugee camp in the central Gaza Stri Mr Trump is due to meet Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu tomorrow, whose hard-right governing coalition is bitterly opposed to ending the conflict before Hamas has been destroyed Mr Trump is due to meet Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu tomorrow, whose hard-right governing coalition is bitterly opposed to ending the conflict before Hamas has been destroyed. In Gaza, meanwhile, the military action continued. Israel said its aircraft struck 120 targets across the region over the past day as its troops pressed deeper into Gaza City. The Palestinian Health Ministry claimed that 74 people had been killed in Gaza in the past 24 hours. The international humanitarian organisation Doctors Without Borders announced late on Friday that it had been forced to suspend its medical activities in Gaza City because its clinics were encircled by Israeli forces, adding the move was the 'last thing' it wanted. Since the war started, Israeli forces have killed more than 65,000 Palestinians in the enclave and displaced the entire population, according to Gaza's Hamas-run health authorities. The frantic search for a Florida teenager has been abruptly stopped as evidence emerged that his disappearance may have been a hoax. Caden Speight was reported missing on the afternoon of September 25. The 17-year-old was initially believed to have been shot and kidnapped by four Hispanic men who it was claimed had taken him in their van. Police investigated the spot where Speight was last seen in Marion County, Florida and found evidence of gun violence as well as the teen's abandoned car and his cell phone. But further investigation revealed that his disappearance may have been entirely fabricated. Police found footage of Speight stopping at several stores before his disappearance was reported. He even purchased a tent, a sleeping bag, and a bike from a nearby Walmart. Police said he left the store on his new bike, having abandoned his truck. He was found 'alive and well' on September 26. Caden Speight was reported missing on September 25 only to be found 'alive and well' the following day Police reported that Speight stopped at several stores before being abducted, even purchasing a tent, bike, and sleeping bag at Walmart According to Click Orlando, Lieutenant Paul Bloom said: 'What we learned through that investigation is that the shooting or the abduction by some folks in a van that was unfounded. 'Weve not been able to verify that at all and in fact, confirmed just the opposite.' Speight may face charges if his reported disappearance is confirmed as a 'deliberate hoax.' In Florida, knowingly filing a false report can be a first-degree misdemeanor or a second or third degree felony. An AMBER alert was sent out to aid with his rescue and his disappearance triggered a multi-agency search, including a police helicopter that searched for Speight all night, according to The Independent. The Uvalde Foundation for Kids allocated their services, as well, offering a $5,000 reward and sending out representatives to search parks, restaurants, and gas stations. They formally withdrew all of their resources, according to Local 10. After he disappeared, police were able to find Speight's truck and cell phone An AMBER alert was issued to help find the boy and multiple agencies participated in an all night search for him Amidst the search, Speight's family issued an urgent plea to find him. His sister wrote in a since deleted Facebook post: 'God I just want him home. I cant sleep eat or do anything not knowing where he is and if he is safe. Please dont stop searching or looking. 'There is still little to no information on what happened or where he could be. I dont understand why this has happened. Just bring him home.' It remains unclear what prompted the fabricated disappearance. Bloom said: 'We want to look into this and see what the cause is. What was his plan? What was the reason? 'So as we further that and go deep, a deeper dive on that, were going to where we can let you know.' A local council has come under fire after closing a popular rock climbing location to protect Aboriginal heritage, with visitors claiming they weren't given a warning. Local climbers said they were not consulted by Wingecarribee Shire Council before it banned climbing within Mt Alexandra crag, south of Sydney. An image shared by the Australian Climbing Association NSW (ACA NSW) on Thursday shows a sign warning visitors to avoid climbing at the park's roughly 130 routes. 'Rock climbing, abseiling and bouldering prohibited beyond this point,' the sign reads. The council said on its website that areas of the reserve were still open for rock climbing, though others had been closed due to 'irreversible damage' to Aboriginal heritage. While the council did not identify which sites it hoped to preserve, ACA NSW believes the ban relates to Aboriginal art discovered in a cave in 2009. The organisation said climbers only became aware of the art in June and had reached out to local Aboriginal representatives to protect it from damage. 'We feel climbers have behaved with integrity, responsibly and rapidly,' it said in a statement. Wingecarribee Shire Council installed a sign banning climbing within the reserve (pictured) A local council banned climbing at Mt Alexandra crag to protect Aboriginal heritage 'A community is a place where people come together and work collaboratively for the common good,' it added. 'Instead, WSC seems determined to scapegoat climbers for 16 years of Council inaction on this matter.' The organisation is now calling on the community to register their opposition to the ban with the council and local representatives. It has written to the council to request the closure be overturned and to arrange a meeting within two weeks to develop a mutual management plan. 'We believe that the implications of the WSC response to protect heritage by enacting widespread and unwarranted closures undermine societal cohesion,' it said. 'If land managers suggest the only way to protect heritage is widespread closures, the future looks bleak. 'A shared future, not a shut future, is something to which we aspire.' For decades it has been the sacred site where 12 heroic airmen laid down their lives to save an English village from being destroyed by their doomed bomber. But The Mail on Sunday can reveal the hallowed field in Isleham, Cambridgeshire, is to be 'desecrated' after Energy Secretary Ed Miliband gave the go-ahead to a sprawling 15-mile-long solar farm as part of his Net Zero crusade. On October 13, 1949, the US Air Force Boeing B-50 Superfortress took off from nearby RAF Lakenheath laden with 16 500lb bombs on a practice flight to Heligoland, Germany. But a fire broke out shortly after take-off and US pilot George Ingham, 27, faced a horrifying choice veer the flaming aircraft away from Isleham and sacrifice his and his crew's lives, or bail out and destroy the village. Elderly residents remember the stricken bomber missing Isleham by just half a mile and crashing into a large field just outside the village in a 'terrifying' explosion that shattered the windows of their primary school. Mr Miliband approved the solar farm plan just three days after Labour came to power last year. His controversial move, which will also affect 11 other villages in Cambridgeshire and Suffolk, came despite a 2023 Planning Inspectorate report that rejected it as 'inappropriate' in part due to the possibility of human remains still being in the field. Local residents are furious at the development at the last resting place of the airmen 11 of whom were American and one British. On October 13, 1949, 12 heroic airmen on board a US Air Force Boeing B-50 Superfortress (above) laid down their lives to stop the English village of Isleham from being destroyed Ed Miliband (above) gave the go-ahead to a sprawling solar farm being built on the sacred memorial site as part of his Net Zero crusade Linda Dunbavin (above) accused Mr Miliband of erasing the memory of the heroic airmen by approving the Sunnica Energy Farm Linda Dunbavin, who remembers the plane going down when she was just four, accused Mr Miliband of erasing the memory of the heroic airmen by approving the Sunnica Energy Farm The 80-year-old, whose two sisters and three cousins were inside the school at the time of the crash, described how she heard an 'almighty bang' and said: 'We drove home and my grandmother was saying, "Oh my God, oh my God, a plane has gone down." 'Those soldiers gave their lives to save our village and a whole generation of children. My grandfather went up there and saw bits of hands and feet all over the place. Ed Miliband is desecrating their blood and bones.' David Brown, 89, was inside the school when the bomber crashed. He said: 'I'm not pleased about Sunnica building a solar farm over it. It is disrespectful to those men.' As part of the 2,500-acre Sunnica solar farm, one of dozens planned across Britain's countryside, huge solar panels will cover the field and surrounding areas. The only concession made by the developers is that they have promised to leave a square in the field free of panels and will put up a plaque in memory of the airmen. Last October, a 75th anniversary memorial service was held at St Andrew's Church in Isleham to commemorate the airmen's 'valiant sacrifice'. A Sunnica spokesman said: 'We undertook geophysical surveys which accurately confirmed the exact location of the crash impact crater. 'In recognition of the importance of the crash crater, we have proposed an exclusion zone around it where no development would occur.' The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero said in a statement: 'We respect the significance this field holds for those in Isleham and the memory of those lost in the 1949 USAF crash. 'We support the developer's commitment to honour them by creating a protected area around the site.' Sir Alex Ferguson's favourite Italian restaurant has been fined tens of thousands of pounds after it was raided for employing illegal foreign workers. Cibo, in the village of Hale, Greater Manchester, is a favourite haunt of the legendary former Manchester United manager, 83. His fellow loyal customers include Stockport-born actress Michelle Keegan, 38, and former Love Islander and influencer Molly-May Hague, 26, who lives in Hale. But the upmarket Italian dining room found itself in hot water recently when it was slapped with an eye-watering 56,000 penalty for taking on undocumented staff, the Sun reports. The Home Office raided the establishment and asked to see all employees' documentation, after receiving a tip-off some did not have the right paperwork. In response, bosses said some of the waiters were on trial shifts, rather than in full-time employment at the restaurant. Three staff members went on to be arrested on suspicion of working illegally. The eatery later confessed one former employee had worked there for three years under a false identity and without the right to work in the UK. Sir Alex Ferguson's (pictured last year) favourite Italian restaurant has been fined tens of thousands of pounds after it was raided for employing illegal foreign workers Cibo, in the village of Hale, Greater Manchester, is a favourite haunt of the legendary former Manchester United manager, 83 (pictured leaving the restaurant in October last year) Restaurant chiefs, who agreed to pay the Home Office charge, were warned they could lose their licence if similar problems arise in future. Alex Norris, minister for border security and asylum, said: 'We are coming down hard on illegal working right across the UK, ramping up arrests and enforcement visits by 50 per cent and removing people with no right to be in the country. 'We will also continue to ensure employers and those facilitating this type of criminality face the full force of the law.' A licensing review by Trafford Council emphasised to Cibo bosses the importance of due employment procedure. No kitchen staff or waiters should be able to work at the establishment without payment, the local authority noted. It also underlined checks must be done on all staff before they are taken on to make sure they have the right to work in this country. The council also implored the restaurant to ensure its workers were registered with HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) for tax and national insurance purposes. And it warned wages must be paid straight into a bank account and records of employees should be kept for five years. A report by Trafford Council officers for the local authority's licensing sub-committee earlier this year reads: 'We heard that during an intelligence led visit to the premises persons were working at the premises without a right to work within the United Kingdom. But the upmarket Italian dining room (pictured, file photo) found itself in hot water recently when it was slapped with an eye-watering 56,000 penalty for taking on undocumented staff 'We were made aware that the premises licence holder disputed that some of those spoken to were employed at the premises as they were undertaking trial shifts. 'We noted some discrepancies in what we were told in the length of time those people had been undertaking that work. 'We noted that the company admitted that it had re-engaged one former employee who had continued to work at the premises for a period of three years using a false identity and without a right to work in the United Kingdom. 'We heard that the premises licence holder has replaced the DPS since this incident, there being an active consultation as to the suitability of the newly nominated DPS. 'We heard that the premises licence holder has reviewed the right to work of all its employees and has revised and improved its practices and procedures and appointed new advisers. 'We heard that the premises licence holder had taken the advice from a person who held themselves out to be a solicitor, but who did not hold that qualification and had in consequence appealed against the civil penalty imposed by the Home Office. 'We understand that having taken professional advice the premises licence holder has withdrawn that appeal and has made a payment of 56,000 to the Home Office to settle the matter. 'We were told that the premises licence holder would welcome any additional conditions that prevented any form of illegal working.' It comes just days after Sir Keir Starmer (pictured) said Labour has 'shied away' from confronting 'people's concerns' around immigration and UK borders Cibo has been contacted for comment. It comes just days after Sir Keir Starmer said Labour has 'shied away' from confronting 'people's concerns' around immigration and UK borders. The Prime Minister said at the Global Progress Action Summit in London on Friday there was 'no doubt' left-wing parties, including Labour, had avoided the matter 'for years'. He continued: 'It has been too easy for people to enter the country, work in the shadow economy and remain illegally. 'We must be absolutely clear that tackling every aspect of the problem of illegal immigration is essential.' Sir Keir's summit speech came after a torrid summer marked by protests near hotels housing asylum seekers. The campaign known as 'Operation Raise the Colours' has also seen flags attached to lampposts and signs throughout the UK. The PM has announced the rollout of mandatory digital ID cards in a bid to crack down on those working illegally. He insisted: 'The simple fact is that every nation needs to have control over its borders... It comes just days after Sir Keir Starmer said Labour has 'shied away' from confronting 'people's concerns' around immigration and UK borders. Pictured: Migrants try to board a smuggler's boat to cross the Channel at Gravelines, France, on September 19, 2025 'It is not compassionate left-wing politics to rely on labour that exploits foreign workers and undercuts fair wages. 'But the simple fact is that every nation needs to have control over its borders.' The premier also set out a choice between 'a politics of predatory grievance, preying on the problems of working people' and 'patriotic renewal, rooted in communities, building a better country, brick by brick, from the bottom up, including everyone in the national story'. Turning to political discourse online, Sir Keir described 'an industrialised infrastructure of grievance, an entire world, not just a world view, created through our devices'. He will add: 'That is miserable, joyless, demonstrably untrue, and yet, in another way, totally cohesive. 'That preys on real problems in the real world, identifies clear enemies that's us. 'And, at its heart, its most poisonous belief, on full display at the protests here in London just a week or two ago, (is) that there is a coming struggle, a defining struggle, a violent struggle, for the nation or all our nations.' Sir Keir warned of 'a language that is naked in its attempt to intimidate'. And he said campaigners who think of themselves as progressive must look themselves 'in the mirror' and identify areas where they have allowed themselves 'to shy away from people's concerns'. A spokesperson for Trafford Council said: 'We were disappointed to hear that this business did not check to make sure employees had the right to work in the UK and failed to pay the correct National Minimum Wage in two instances. 'We thank our counterparts at the Home Office who undertook this investigation to help keep employment standards high in Trafford and make sure businesses are run properly. 'The vast majority of bars and restaurants in the borough adhere to the law and this case shows that anyone who does not can face serious consequences.' A Labour minister has insisted the Government could overrule the new definition of Islamophobia if it risked free speech and legitimate criticism of the religion. Ministers have initiated work on an official definition of Islamophobia following a surge in hate crimes against Muslims after the Hamas terror attacks on October 7 2023. Plans to come up with a description for the 'unacceptable treatment, prejudice and discrimination against Muslims' were put forward by the former Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner. But concerns have mounted that it would lead to Muslims being given protections beyond those afforded to other religions. Steve Reed, the Communities Secretary, has now said he is willing to overrule the new definition if it would restrict free speech and threaten legitimate criticism of Islam. He told the Telegraph: 'We haven't got a definition to introduce yet. There's a group working on it and we'll have to look at what they propose. But at the front of my mind in taking that decision will be I will defend free speech.' 'I'm not going to bring in blasphemy laws by the back door,' he said, adding that 'people don't have a right not to be offended'. Former Tory Attorney General Dominic Grieve is leading work on a new definition, while a 2018 definition of Islamophobia which Labour adopted has been criticised for being too vague and having the potential to shut down valid discourse. Steve Reed, the Communities Secretary, has now said he is willing to overrule the new definition if it would restrict free speech and threaten legitimate criticism of Islam The government have initiated work on an official definition of Islamophobia following a surge in hate crimes against Muslims after the Hamas terror attacks on October 7 It defines Islamophobia as 'a type of racism that targets expressions of Muslimness or perceived Muslimness'. Meanwhile Labour signed up to a definition of Islamophobia while in opposition which suggests the term 'Asian grooming gangs' is racist. Campaigners say that creating an official definition risks 'two-tier' enforcement by police, while top lawyers have said it could be used to rewrite harassment and hate crime laws. Tom Cross KC, a member of a panel that acts for the Attorney General, warned Labour's official definition of Islamophobia could deter police from investigating Muslim offenders. It risks diluting current legislation which allows those accused of making offensive comments to argue their remarks were 'reasonable', he suggested. Labour's plan to introduce an official definition of Islamophobia could also hand a 'significant new weapon' to a Muslim group which aims to influence media reporting of the religion, a new report has warned. A study by the think-tank Policy Exchange accused the Centre for Media Monitoring (CfMM) of making repeated, ill-conceived complaints about the way Islam is covered in the media. The report set out how CfMM 'pressurises journalists to downplay or ignore Islamist extremism, overwhelmingly the greatest terror threat to the UK'. 'It tells journalists they should never use the terms 'Islamism', 'Islamic extremism' or 'Muslim extremism' at all. 'It attacks journalists for describing terror groups, including Hamas, as Islamist,' the report said. It concluded the organisation, which is part of the Muslim Council of Britain (MCB), should not be engaged with or taken at face value by journalists, regulators or anyone else. The MCB itself has been boycotted by successive governments since 2009. An Alabama man who tried to hire a hitman to kill his family pleaded guilty to the shocking crime after he accidentally asked an FBI agent to commit the heinous act. Mohammad Mohammad, 64, was arrested last September after he met with an undercover officer posing as a hitman and negotiated the cost of killing his wife and six adult children, according to the United States Attorney's Office. Law enforcement was tipped off to the scheme when a witness, who wasn't named in the criminal complaint, told the Federal Bureau of Investigation that Mohammad had asked him to 'take care of' his family members. He told the witness that a falling out with his family destroyed him and that he was willing to 'die for self dignity' and 'die for pride,' according to a criminal complaint. 'Find me somebody. Ill pay. All I need is a number,' Mohammad said. 'You say you got people where you from, man. Just find me somebody. You don't have to be a part of it. Just get me a name and they number. And I'll take it from there'. During a separate interaction, Mohammad told the individual: 'Get me that name and number, or I don't want to see your face again'. An FBI agent then began communicating with Mohammad, posing as the hitman. The two coordinated a meeting where Mohammad divulged how his family 'had turned against him,' according to the criminal complaint. Mohammad Mohammad, 64, pleaded guilty to seven counts of murder for hire after attempting to hire a hitman to kill his wife and kids Mohammad previously worked as a plumber and owned American Plumbing Service, LLC in Homewood, Alabama He also claimed that his wife, who was only referred to as SA, was cheating on him and conspiring to steal his money. Mohammad then provided the undercover agent with the addresses of his wife and six kids, along with descriptions of their vehicles. He agreed to pay the agent $20,000 to kill his wife and $5,000 for his children. Mohammad told the FBI agent: 'You pick and choose who you gunna take out, and get paid,' according to a transcript included in the complaint. He then referred to his wife as a 'big wh**e,' and instructed the undercover agent to start with her. When the agent pressed Mohammad for more money, he appeared to get agitated and responded: 'Start with one. Take your time. Second. Third. Fourth. Five. I don't give f**k. Just, start with one'. The agent said he needed $5,000 for killing each child, but agreed to $2,000 for the first murder. Mohammad responded that he wanted his wife killed first, adding: 'Your money maximum within 2-weeks. Twenty [thousand]. Not five. Twenty. Because its the big head [sic]. The others, its okay. They are trash. Cockroaches. You know. But this one, deserve more. I give it to you'. Mohammad agreed to pay the undercover FBI agent $20,000 to kill his wife and $5,000 for his children Mohammad and his wife were undergoing divorce proceedings, and he was previously arrested and charged with domestic violence for assaulting his daughter, although the charges were dismissed. Three Protection from Abuse Orders (PFA) were issued against Mohammad in 2021 from his daughter, wife, and son for 'assaulting, threatening, abusing, harassing, following, interfering, or stalking'. His wife's PFA stated that he would come after her and use weapons against her and her kids, according to the complaint. She said that Mohammad would threaten to lock them in the basement and kill them. On one occasion, he said he wanted to shoot their daughter between the eyes. 'He always threatens me and my children with violence. He has put his hands on my kids and sent them to the emergency room. He has put a gun & knife against my kids heads and throats. He has shot guns at us,' the PFA paperwork read. There were also multiple instances of arson cited throughout 2023, where Mohammad was accused of setting fire to vehicles belonging to his wife's friend, two of his sons, his daughter, and his wife. Mohammad has pleaded guilty to seven counts of murder for hire. He faces a maximum sentence of 10 years for each count. Daily Mail has reached out to his lawyer for comment. A shooter escaped on a boat after pulling up to a marina and opening fire on a group of restaurant diners, killing three individuals and injuring eight. The suspect, whose identity is still unknown, pulled up to a popular tourist hotspot in Southport, North Carolina, at around 9.30pm on Saturday night, according to ChyAnn Ketchum, the city's spokesperson. Shots rang out near the American Fish Company before the suspect fled the scene on the Intracoastal Waterway toward Oak Island - about 40 minutes outside of Wilmington. The shooter was the lone occupant of the boat. Shortly after 10pm the US Coast Guard observed a person matching the suspect's description loading their boat on a public ramp, according to town officials. The person of interest was detained by the Coast Guard and was brought in for questioning by the Oak Island Police Department with assistance from the State Bureau of Investigation. Town officials assured residents that there was no further threat to the public and the investigation was ongoing. Officials previously issued an urgent warning to locals to avoid the area and remain in their homes. They wrote in a Facebook post just before 10pm: 'There are reports of an active shooter in the Southport Yacht Basin. Law enforcement's flashing lights could be seen flashing in the distance in CCTV footage Emergency responder's attended the scene after a person on a boat began shooting into a crowded restaurant Three people were reported dead and eight were injured 'There is an unknown number of injuries. Avoid the area and remain in your homes. 'Please report any suspicious activity immediately to 911.' The boat was described as a 'white center console boat.' The Brunswick County Sheriff's Office confirmed on social media that they were assisting the city of Southport with the incident. They were one of multiple law enforcement agencies responding. They said: 'Please keep all those affected, as well as our first responders, in your thoughts and prayers.' As of 11.30pm a person of interest was being questioned, according to Star News, but no one is in custody. During a press conference at 1am on Sunday, Southport Police Chief Todd Coring said that they were working between two crime scenes - one where the shooting occurred, and another on Oak Island where the person of interest was being questioned. Southport Police responded to the incident alongside the Brunswick County Sheriff's Office The shooter pulled up the marina in a boat and escaped via the Intracoastal Waterway The American Fish Company is a popular waterside spot and plays live music on Saturday nights He said it is too soon to determine the motive. Extra police patrol was called to Southport. He added: 'Just know you are as safe as you can be right now.' There is no longer an active threat to the community. Southport, NC is about 30 miles south of Wilmington, NC on the Cape Fear River. The yacht basin from which the suspect fired is on the southeastern corner of the state, 'where the Intracoastal Waterway, Cape Fear River and Atlantic Ocean converge,' according to NBC. American Fish Company boasts itself as one of the neighborhood's 'favorite hangouts.' On Saturdays their live band Bacon Grease takes the stage from 7pm to 10pm. The restaurant is one of many that line the marina. The friends of teenager who was killed over the weekend in a suspected machete attack have said the Victorian government needs to 'wake up' and toughen bail laws. Kaiden Morgan, 18, suffered critical injuries on The Boulevard in Morwell, 100km east of Melbourne, at 10.15pm on Saturday. He was rushed to hospital by ambulance where he sadly died. Another man, 20, was also hospitalised the same night. The Warragul man was found on nearby Gillies Street with non-fatal injuries. Homicide detectives are investigating Mr Morgan's death. No arrests have yet been made. Mr Morgan was a talented Aboriginal dancer who in 2024 appeared on the ABC show Takeover with his dance group the Boorun Boys. 'It's important to me to pay my respects to everyone on this land that walks it, not just to my Elders, but everyone around me,' he told the program. 'All the boys a lot of the time go to my dad's house to practice dancing and like, I want that to be my house in 20 years.' Some of Mr Morgan's friends have blamed the Victorian government for not doing enough to lower the crime rate. It has risen in the state by 18 per cent in the year to June 30, according to the latest crime data released Thursday. Kaiden Morgan suffering horrific injuries at 10.15pm on Saturday One friend blasted the Victorian government (pictured is Premier Jacinta Allan) for not doing enough to curb crime 'The government needs to wake up and stop letting these kids out on bail to reoffend,' one friend Jordan Banks told the Herald Sun. 'He did wonders for the Aboriginal community... loved his culture and wanted to show the world. 'I'd love everyone to know how kind he actually was.' The Victorian government this year unveiled details of new bail law changes it claimed were the 'toughest in the country'. Under the state's new bail laws, people accused of committing six serious robbery and home invasion offences while on bail will be refused additional bail unless the decision-maker is satisfied there is a high likelihood the accused will not reoffend. A new 'second strike rule' has also been introduced which would make it more difficult for repeat offenders to be granted bail. Since the introduction of the new laws, there has been a 26 per cent increase in young people who have lost their bail privileges and a 46 per cent rise for adults. However, even with these positive numbers, the crime rate continues to outpace the increased bail denials and the number of alleged offenders is also on the rise. The 18-year-old was rushed to hospital but died a shortly after In the 12 months ending on June 30, 483,583 criminal incidents were reported in the state, according to the new crime data. Now criminal incidents per 100,000 Victorians stands at 6,814, which is a 16.3 per cent increase since 2024 and the highest level recorded in more than a decade. Police Minister Anthony Carbines said the state was yet to see the impact the new laws have had on crime. However, he claimed the new laws were working despite the growing crime rate. Anyone with information regarding Saturday's incident has been urged to contact Crime Stoppers. Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson have been told they are not welcome at the Royal Family's Christmas celebrations amid a fresh scandal involving paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein, sources have claimed. It's understood King Charles, 76, wants to keep the Duke and Duchess of York, both 65, at arm's length after the Mail on Sunday exposed how Fergie wrote to Epstein to apologise for publicly disowning the vile billionaire. Andrew and his ex-wife, who live together at Royal Lodge in Windsor despite divorcing in 1996, have also been told to make themselves 'invisible' at future royal gatherings, insiders claim. It comes after Charles asked the Duchess of York to help convince Andrew to 'do the decent thing' and avoid the Royal Family's Christmas gathering last year after it emerged the Duke had become close with alleged Chinese spy Yang Tengbo. The Yorks spent last Christmas together at Royal Lodge instead, but they were not joined by their daughters, Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie. A source close to the King told The Sunday Times: 'You can't sack someone from being your brother. 'But this year, if the duke and duchess were both to be as honourable [as last year], it would be very much for the best and the family would not be disappointed, not least to avoid the King having to make any more difficult decisions.' It follows several charities dropping the Duchess in the wake of the Mail's expose last week, which laid bare how she cynically lied when she pledged to cut ties with Epstein. King Charles has banished Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson from the Royal Family 's Christmas celebrations, sources have claimed. Pictured: Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson at the Duchess of Kent's funeral on September 16 Just weeks after publicly disowning him, she then wrote him a gushing private message calling him a 'steadfast, generous and supreme friend' and admitting she only distanced herself from him to save her own reputation. The Duchess 'humbly apologised' to the convicted sex offender for letting him down, and said she had been told to speak out if she wanted to save her career as a children's author. She sent the grovelling message 'from the truth of my heart', less than two months after telling journalists: 'I will never have anything to do with [Epstein] again.' The Duchess's friends say she was 'devastated for any embarrassment' caused by the latest scandal and 'will explain herself to the wider Royal Family in due course'. Sources close to the King have told The Sunday Times that the monarch would prefer if Andrew and Fergie keep out of sight when appearing at family events by arriving and leaving through discreet entrances where possible. Buckingham Palace declined to comment. Earlier this month, the Yorks very much made their presence known at the Duchess of Kent's funeral at Westminster Cathedral. After the emotional service, Andrew was seen howling with laughter and trying to speak to Prince William, who appeared to ignore his disgraced uncle. The Prince of Wales is understood to consider his uncle a 'risk' and 'threat' to the monarch and is said to fully support his father's stance. Charles and William are thought to have spoken about the latest scandal during their weekend together in Scotland. A source said the King is 'not of the mind to banish someone', but would hope the Yorks can 'find a more discreet way of attending these events'. 'In the Duke of York's case, he seems to relish the prospect of not being low-key about it,' they added. Fergie had recently made a return to the royal fold after bouncing back from several embarrassments over the years - including being photographed having her toes sucked by US financial adviser Johnny Bryant as well as being caught in a sting offering access to her ex-husband for an alleged 500,000. But she was invited to join the Royal Family's Christmas gatherings in 2022 and 2023, her first invitations for three decades. She also joined the family's traditional walk from Sandringham house to church alongside Andrew, Beatrice and Eugenie in 2023. Andrew stepped down as a working royal over the scandal involving his friendship with Epstein in 2019. It followed a disastrous Newsnight interview about his relationship with Epstein and questions over his relationship with Virginia Giuffre who claimed she was sexually assaulted by the Duke three times when she was 17. Andrew, who always denied the allegations, agreed an out-of-court settlement with Ms Giuffre, believed to be worth around 12million. Ms Giuffre, who claimed she was trafficked by Epstein, took her own life in April aged 41. King Charles also wants Andrew and Fergie to be 'invisible' at future events, sources claim. It comes after they made a less than discreet appearance at the Duchess of Kent's funeral. Pictured: Andrew, Charles and William at the funeral New files showing phone message logs, copies of flight logs and manifests for aircraft, as well as copies of financial ledgers belonging to Epstein were released by Congressional Democrats in the US on Friday night, naming Andrew, as well as billionaire Elon Musk, among them. The Mail revealed last night how Princess Beatrice is said to have 'lost all hope' of becoming a working Royal thanks to the deepening scandal engulfing her parents. Friends of Beatrice, the eldest daughter Andrew and Fergie, say she would have been keen to help ease the burden on Charles and William by carrying out more Royal engagements. The King is said to have been impressed by her elegance and enthusiasm during recent joint appearances and is keenly aware of the need to boost the number of working Royals as he continues to be treated for an undisclosed form of cancer and the Princess of Wales recovers from her own battle with the disease. But with his strict stance against half-in-half-out Royals working for the Firm, nothing yet has ever come of their mutual appreciation. Now aides insist nothing ever will. The Mail on Sunday understands that courtiers have concerns about further damaging revelations that will emerge about the duke's relationship with the convicted paedophile after reports that the Epstein Files contain a cache of more than 100 emails that 'could destroy Andrew'. A source close to her said: 'Beatrice does want to be a working Royal and she wants to do Royal events to help her uncle because she'd enjoy them and she would be good at the job. 'Charles apparently appreciates this . . . There had at one stage been a feeling that Bea could have been lined up one day. She's never put a foot wrong, don't forget and she shouldn't be punished for the sins of her father. But the King's courtiers are concerned Andrew could try to 'get in via the back door' by exerting influence over her.' Sir Keir Starmer has announced plans for 12 new towns across the UK ahead of a tense party conference for the beleaguered Prime Minister as Reform continue to surge in the opinion polls. The plans could deliver up to 300,000 new homes as the Prime Minister attempts to finally bring some good news to struggling families. Among 12 sites which have been identified as areas for new towns, three have been described as the most promising. The party is due to start work in Tempsford in Bedfordshire, Leeds South Bank in West Yorkshire and Crews Hill in Greater London before the next general election. However locals in Tempsford claimed they had not been informed about the plans and said there is a lack of infrastructure in the village, including no phone signal, as well as regular flooding in the area, could present a problem for a huge development. The Prime Minister told the Sunday Times the new towns were the 'physical embodiment of national renewal'. He added: 'It speaks particularly to those people under the age of 40 who have been locked out of the dream of home ownership. 'That means that people haven't got their base camp; that security for them and their family, which speaks to a wider piece, which is this sort of disenchantment with politics: the sense that politics can't deliver.' Housing Secretary Steve Reed is set to announce the plans in a speech on the opening day of the Labour party conference. Sir Keir Starmer has announced plans for 12 new towns across the UK which could lead to up to 300,000 houses Each town will have at least 10,000 homes with at least 40 per cent affordable housing and half for social rent. In total, 12 sites across Britain have been earmarked for the development of new towns. Among the dozen locations are sites in Cheshire, Manchester, Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, Plymouth and London. It could collectively result in 300,000 houses being built across England. In its manifesto, Labour pledged to begin work on 1.5 million new homes over the course of the Parliament, to expand homeownership to more Britons. In his speech, BBC News said the housing secretary will echo Donald Trump by pledging to 'build baby build', while 'taking lessons from the post-war Labour government housing boom'. Clement Attlee's government in 1945 resulted in the biggest increase in housebuilding in the country's history. The announcement comes amid a crisis for Labour as Reform threatens a landslide in the next election. Although Reform would be slightly short of an overall majority with 311 MPs, that would almost certainly see Nigel Farage become PM On Friday a new megapoll showed Nigel Farage's party would make the biggest surge in political history if an election was held now. Although the party would be slightly short of an overall majority with 311 MPs, that would almost certainly see Mr Farage become PM. Labour would lose more than 250 seats on its current tally - and the Tories would slump into fourth behind the Lib Dems, with just 45 MPs. Labour's conference in Liverpool begins on Sunday and Sir Keir said the battle against Reform UK and its 'toxic' politics were 'the fight of our times'. The Prime Minister told The Sunday Times: 'I think we can pull this round.' But in a plea for party unity, after speculation Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham could seek a return to Westminster to oust him, Sir Keir said: 'It is the fight of our times and we've all got to be in it together. 'We don't have time for introspection, we don't have time for navel-gazing.' The Prime Minister hopes to use his party conference to unveil a series of eye-catching policies, including promises for the construction of new towns, with the aim of turning the tide for both Labour and his premiership. Housing secretary Steve Reed is set to announce the plans at the Labour Party conference today 'You'll always get a bit of that at a Labour Party conference, but that is not going to solve the problems that face this country.' However locals in some of the areas say they have been left in the dark over the plans to create entire towns on their doorstep. One parish council chairman whose countryside village has been identified as a likely site for the construction of a new town said: 'Nobody's come to talk to us at all.' The chairman of the parish council in Tempsford, which is home to 600 people and 300 houses, said residents have no idea what to expect or prepare for. David Sutton said: 'The biggest problem we've got at the moment is that even today, as an announcement's being made, we've been given no idea whatsoever of the scale of what we're being asked to live amongst.' Earlier this year the Government confirmed plans to build a new train station at Tempsford to provide connections between the East Coast Main Line and East West Rail. 'Nobody's come to talk to us at all,' Mr Sutton said. 'Nobody's given us any indication whether it's the rumoured 10,000 houses from before, 20,000, 40,000 was heard a couple of years ago, and last year 125,000, so what is it?' The 52-year-old said some residents are 'a lot more anti' the prospect of major building than he is, adding that he is 'up for some sustainable development' in the village which has 'no phone signal, no shop, no gas, no schools, no nothing'. The chairman of the parish council in Tempsford, which is home to 600 people and 300 houses, said residents have no idea what to expect or prepare for 'There's a reason there's no other houses here at the moment, because we haven't got anything,' Mr Sutton explained. 'We've got horrific flooding problems where every single year for the last 20 years people in our village have had sewage in their front rooms at Christmas. 'We need some help before we need to be the ones helping everybody else out with somewhere to live.' Mr Sutton, who is also the landlord of the village's pub, said The Wheatsheaf is 'the only business in the whole village that's open every day of the week'. Among the steps Labour plans to take to speed up housing development is a 'new towns unit', aimed at pumping both private and public cash into transport links, GP surgeries, schools and open green spaces in its new settlements. Mr Sutton said: 'Of course (the Government) will say that but will they? 'If they're not even talking to us at all, how can we be sure that when they're promising they're going to build stuff, how do we know they even know what we need?' The parish councillor also said the green spaces that could be built upon, including Tempsford's historic airfield, are important to residents. The village of Tempsford in Bedfordshire where there are plans to build new homes increasing the population to 350,000 Adam Hart, whose great-grandfather flew from the secret wartime base RAF Tempsford, said losing the airfield would amount to 'losing a unique piece of British history'. The 25-year-old historian and author, who lives in west London, told PA: 'Not only would it be a huge shame to lose what's left of RAF Tempsford, it would also deprive my generation of the chance to learn about this incredible piece of history and the bravery of the men and women who served at Tempsford. 'Disguised as a working farm, Tempsford was the airfield from which many of Britain's bravest spies departed for their secret missions in Nazi-occupied Europe. 'Having visited Tempsford and researched the airfield, it seems to have taken its secrecy so seriously that still today no one seems to know about it. 'By building over the old runways and demolishing what's left of the buildings, future generations will not have the chance to visit and learn and be less inclined to learn about something that no longer exists. 'Losing RAF Tempsford is not just losing a unique piece of British history, I think it will also contribute to future generations increasingly not engaging with the Second World War, which in my opinion should be avoided at all costs, particularly with a war raging in Europe as we speak. 'And I say all this as a young person paying extortionate rent who would benefit from building more houses.' Work on 12 new towns will be taken forward, Housing Secretary Steve Reed is to announce, as recommended by a report from the Government's New Towns Taskforce, published on Sunday morning. Plans for Heyford Park in Oxfordshire, one of Britain's proposed new towns, is set to be focused on net zero initiatives The historic RAF Upper Heyford airfield will be turned into a 'green corridor' as part of the plans Proposals for another of the new towns in Heyford Park near Bicester in Oxfordshire have been revealed. The once proud site of the RAF Upper Heyford will be turned into an ultra-woke, net zero utopia. The plans, unveiled by developer Dorchester Living, include 13,000 new homes four new primary schools, a secondary school and community centres. Transport in the town is focused on cyclists and pedestrians in the 'walkable neighbourhood', with very few roads displayed in the mock-up images. Some 5,000 new jobs will mostly be available for those in the green energy sector, focusing on 'Cleantech and Low Carbon Industries' alongside 'knowledge based sectors'. It plans to make Heyford Park the UK's first energy surplus town with designs showing the area packed with wind turbines and solar panels. The historic airfield will also become a 'green corridor' while other areas of the town will be given back to nature as part of rewilding efforts. Paul Silver, CEO of Dorchester Living, said: 'Being named one of the Governments New Towns is a transformative moment for Heyford Park and a major endorsement of everything we at Dorchester Living have built here so far. 'Over the past decade we have worked closely with partners and the local community to regenerate the former RAF Upper Heyford into a thriving neighbourhood, preserving its heritage whilst delivering new homes, schools, green spaces and jobs all with the underlying objective of becoming the UKs first energy surplus town. 'This designation gives us the platform to accelerate our work, to deliver a fully integrated and sustainable community, future proofed with transport and energy systems, strong local services and opportunities for people to live, work and thrive. 'As a New Town we can solidify our plans to create a place where young families can put down roots, where businesses can grow and future generations can enjoy a high quality of life, now with the Governments backing.' A wedding in Egypt ended in heartbreak when the groom collapsed and died while dancing with his bride. Ashraf Abu Hakam was seen in footage celebrating the joyous occasion in Aswan Governorate on Thursday before tragedy struck. In the clip, Hakam can be spotted holding hands with his new wife as they danced together in front of friends and family. Both he and his bride were waving Saidi sticks - a solid pole used in the traditional Egyptian Saidi dance - just moments before disaster. Hakam was seen in the footage suddenly collapsing on to the ground while holding his wife's hand. Guests scrambled around him in an attempt to offer him aid as the clip captured him lying on his back on the dancefloor. The upbeat music and laughter was quickly replaced with screams and gasps as the wedding venue fell into disarray. Tragically, attempts to revive him failed and doctors later confirmed he had suffered a sudden cardiac arrest, reports Gulf News. Ashraf Abu Hakam was seen in footage celebrating the joyous occasion in Aswan Governorate on Thursday before tragedy struck In the clip, Hakam can be spotted holding hands with his new wife as they danced together in front of friends and family Hakam was seen in the footage suddenly collapsing on to the ground while holding his wife's hand The heartbreaking incident quickly spread across Egyptian social media, with hundreds of people expressing shock and offering condolences. 'He was full of life, smiling, excited for his future,' one friend wrote. 'May God have mercy on him, and grant him a place in the vastness of His paradise,' said another. A third added: 'His age cannot delay an hour or advance it for his family and wife; sincere condolences.' Others recalled celebrating his engagement just a day earlier, never imagining the festivities would turn to mourning within hours. 'I'm worried about this bride, the poor thing, and the talk that will follow her. May Allah grant her patience,' one more said. Hakam's death comes just over a week after a 26-year-old nurse died after falling into a coma at her wedding. Adna Rovcanin-Omerbegovic, a Bosnian influencer and nurse, fell ill at her wedding reception on September 13. Just hours after tying the knot, Rovcanin-Omerbegovic became unwell and was rushed to a local hospital, Bosnian media reported at the time. While undergoing treatment, she fell into a coma and tragically lost her life just two days later. NATO jets have been scrambled after Vladimir Putin launched one of the heaviest drone and missile attacks on Kyiv since the start of the war. The 'massive' aerial bombardment that lasted more than 12 hours killed at least four people including a 12-year-old girl and left dozens injured after almost 600 drones and 40 missiles hit the Ukrainian capital and surrounding regions overnight. Some 595 exploding drones and decoys and 48 missiles were launched just hours after Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov threatened a 'decisive response' to any action against unauthorised Russian raids into NATO airspace. Of those, air defences shot down or jammed 566 drones and 45 missiles. Russia's defence ministry confirmed the massive overnight strike, declaring in a statement: 'Last night, the armed forces of the Russian Federation launched a massive strike with high-precision long-range air, sea-based weapons and unmanned aerial vehicles against enterprises of the military-industrial complex of Ukraine used in the interests of the armed forces of Ukraine, as well as the infrastructure of military airfields'. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has warned that Ukraine will retaliate and said the 'vile' attack showed Moscow 'wants to continue fighting and killing'. Saturday night's brutal barrage was one of the heaviest overnight air assaults - with emergency services later confirming an attack on the city's Institute of Cardiology killed a nurse and patient. A large bakery, an automobile rubber factory, as well as apartment buildings and civilian infrastructure were also targeted, Zelensky said. The president added that Zaporizhzhia, Khmelnytskyi, Sumy, Mykolaiv, Chernihiv, and Odesa regions were also hit in the aerial attack. Ivan Fedorov, Zaporizhzhia's Governor, said 31 people had been injured in the region, including three children - two boys, aged 11 and 12, and a nine-year-old girl. Explosions light up the sky over the city during Russian drone and missile strikes, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, in Kyiv, Ukraine September 28, 2025 NATO have scrambled jets after Vladimir Putin launched one of the heaviest drone and missile attacks on Kyiv since the start of the war An explosion of a missile in the sky over the city during a Russian missile and drone strike Around 500 drones and 40 missiles bombarded the Ukrainian capital and surrounding regions overnight The 'massive' air assault killed at least four people including a 12-year-old girl and left dozens injured One boy was caught in an explosion while the other had suffered carbon monoxide poisoning, he said. Both are in a serious condition. Zelensky vowed that the war-torn country 'will strike back' in an attempt to 'force diplomacy' from Russia, and said he was counting on a 'strong reaction' from Europe and the US. 'This dastardly attack took place in fact as the end of the week of the UN General Assembly, and this is how Russia declares its real position,' he said. Meanwhile, Russias defence ministry said its air defences shot down 41 Ukrainian drones overnight into Sunday. Neighbouring Poland, which shot down three of Putin's drones which infringed on their airspace earlier this month, scrambled jets early on Sunday as Russia pounded western Ukraine. It also temporarily shut airspace near two of its southeastern cities. The moves were preventive and aimed at securing Polish airspace and protecting citizens, in particular in areas near Ukraine, the Polish Armed Forces said. 'Due to the activity of long-range Russian air forces carrying out strikes on Ukrainian territory, Polish and allied air forces have begun operating in our airspace,' it added. 'The Operational Command of the Polish Armed Forces is monitoring the current situation, and subordinate forces and resources remain ready for immediate response.' Poland has vowed to down any hostile objects over Ukraine as the country looks to fast-track laws giving the military greater freedom to act. 'Moscow wants to continue fighting and killing and deserves only the harshest pressure from the world,' Zelensky said on Saturday morning following the Russian attack. A fire in a residential building following an air attack in Kyiv, amid the Russian invasion of Ukraine Russian drones attacked Ukraine overnight as Poland scrambled jets and temporarily closed its airspace near two southeastern cities An explosion of a drone lights up the cityscape during a Russian missile and drone strike, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, in Kyiv, Ukraine September 28, 2025 'Moscow wants to continue fighting and killing and deserves only the harshest pressure from the world,' Volodymyr Zelensky said following the Russian attack Smoke drifts over the city after Russian drone and missile strikes, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, in Kyiv, Ukraine September 28, 2025 A Ukrainian rescuer works at the site of an air attack at an undisclosed location in the Kyiv region, amid the Russian invasion of Ukraine Townhouses are seen destroyed and damaged in Petropavlivska Borshchahivka on the outskirts of Kyiv following a Russian overnight attack, in Kyiv He said the assault underlined the need for more punitive sanctions against Russia to force it to stop its aggression. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha added: 'Putin must feel the danger of continuing this war - personally for him, his buddies' pockets, his economy, and his regime. 'That is what can make him stop this senseless war.' The overnight barrage also injured at least 16, including three children, in the southern city of Zaporizhzhia. In Kyiv, drones flew over the city and anti-aircraft fire rang out for several hours. Loud explosions were also heard with the attack continuing throughout the morning. Kyiv's Mayor Vitali Klitschko said a fire had broken out at a state cardiological hospital as a result of the attack. Some residents fled to metro stations deep underground for safety, sleeping on makeshift beds or sitting on deck chairs following events on their phones. Speaking before the latest assault, Zelensky said: 'Putin will not wait to finish his war in Ukraine. He will open up some other direction. Nobody knows where. He wants that.' The warning came after Lavrov spoke at the United Nations General Assembly on Saturday as unauthorised flights into Nato's airspace have raised alarm around Europe in recent weeks. NATO jets have downed drones over Poland while Estonia said Russian fighter jets flew into its territory. Debris lies in an apartment damaged by a Russian strike on September 28, 2025 in Kyiv, Ukraine Emergency workers continue clearing debris at the site of the strike that damaged the Institute of Cardiology, where a nurse and a patient were killed, in Kyiv, Ukraine Explosions are seen in the night sky as Ukrainian servicemen fire towards drones during a Russian missile and drone strike, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, in Kyiv, Ukraine September 28, 2025 Firefighters work at a residential neighbourhood hit by the Russian drone and missile strike in the outskirts of Kyiv Residents clean the debris inside their home in a residential area targeted by Russian strikes Russia denied that its planes entered Estonian airspace and said the drones did not target Poland, with Moscow's ally Belarus maintaining that Ukrainian signal-jamming sent the devices off course. Mr Lavrov warned that any retaliation against Russia would come with dire consequences. 'Russia has never had and does not have any such intentions' of attacking European or Nato countries, he said. 'However, any aggression against my country will be met with a decisive response.' A five-year-old boy reportedly died in India after being beheaded in front of his mother by an attacker who allegedly broke into their home. The young boy, named locally as Vikesh, had been playing outside in Ali village, Madhya Pradesh, when the suspected attacker Mahesh, 25, arrived on a bike. According to local reports, Mahesh, who was not known to the little boy or his family, allegedly picked up a sharp spade he found lying in the house and attacked the child - severing his neck from his torso. The child's mother tried desperately to save him, and was left with injuries after also being attacked by the stranger, as per NDTV. After hearing her screams, neighbours flocked to the scene to offer her aid, while others caught the attacker and severely beat him up. Dhar Superintendent of Police Mayank Awasthi stated that the accused, who was injured by the mob beating, died on the way to the hospital. He added: 'The actual cause of death will only be known after a post-mortem.' Cops understand that the attacker had been missing from his home in Jobat Bagdi, Alirajpur, for almost four days before the brutal assault. The young boy, named locally as Vikesh, had been playing outside in Ali village, Madhya Pradesh, when the suspected attacker Mahesh, 25, arrived on a bike The child's mother tried desperately to save him, and was left with injuries after also being attacked by the stranger He had also allegedly tried to steal items from a nearby shop around an hour before the attack. A cause of death for the child has not yet been determined and will be revealed after a post-mortem, while a case was registered against the suspect. Awasthi confirmed: 'Police investigations revealed that they had no acquaintance or grudge against the murderer. The police are conducting a detailed investigation.' The vile attack comes just two months after the death of the elderly British mother of a Bollywood actor. Pauline Crowther Ann, 85, was found dead in her son's home in the upmarket New Delhi neighbourhood of Lutyens on July 30. Initially believed to have died from a fall, an autopsy carried out on her body suggests she may have been strangled. The report also indicated she may have died of brain injuries. A police officer told the Telegraph: 'The post-mortem report is inconclusive, but it reveals she had head injuries. We have asked for a second opinion.' She was the mother of Daljit Sean Singh, a Bollywood and model, and lived on the ground floor of his home while he and his family lived on the upper floors. A housemaid found her unconscious on the day of her death and alerted the family. Police found bloodstains, but believed it was from the fall she suffered. The family were said not to have suspected any foul play in Pauline's death. Nigel Farage goaded Keir Starmer for pressing the 'racist' button over Reform's plans for cracking down on immigration today. Kicking off Labour's conference in Liverpool, the PM risked inflaming public anger by using the term to dismiss the policy of abolishing 'settled status'. He also branded Mr Farage's proposals 'immoral' as he switched to a distinctly more aggressive stance against the insurgents. But the Reform leader clapped back by pointing to polls showing Labour facing meltdown and him on track for No10. And Zia Yusuf, Reform UK's head of policy, said: 'Labour's message to the country is clear: pay hundreds of billions for foreign nationals to live off the state forever or Labour will call you racist. 'Reform's plan will ensure only British people can access welfare and that migrants contribute to society.' The spat came as Sir Keir desperately tries to shore up his teetering leadership, with rivals on manoeuvres and unions demanding a lurch to the Left. The mutinous mood is darkening with a nightmare Budget looming on November 26. There are fears Rachel Reeves will need to impose 30billion of tax hikes to balance the books, as the economy stalls and government borrowing costs spike. Meanwhile, Sir Keir insisted his controversial proposals for compulsory identification would clarify the 'principle that you cannot work in the UK unless you have ID'. But he struggled to explain how the new arrangements can make a major difference, when firms are already obliged to obtain proof people have a right to work here. In other twists and turns for Sir Keir today: The PM refused to go further than saying 'the manifesto stands' when challenged on the idea of VAT going up at the Budget; Unite has threatened to pull affiliation to Labour unless Rachel Reeves brings forward left-wing measures such as a wealth tax and more borrowing; Liverpool City Council leader Liam Robinson has warned that a Reform government would be 'like Thatcher on steroids'; Labour conference has been hit with pro-Gaza protests as Sir Keir struggles to control discontent; A poll has found a majority of Scots support splitting the UK. Kicking off Labour's conference in Liverpool, the PM risked inflaming public anger by using the term 'racist' to dismiss the policy of abolishing 'settled status' Nigel Farage clapped back by pointing to polls showing Labour facing meltdown and him on track for No10 Mr Farage has unveiled plans to abolish indefinite leave to remain, although he later watered the ideas down amid a volley of criticism Migrants preparing to attempt a Channel crossing from France yesterday Sir Keir unveiled his latest big idea of bringing in digital ID - something long backed by his ally Tony Blair - on Friday. However, it has been opposed by the Tories, Reform, Lib Dems and some Labour MPs for being ineffective and infringing civil liberties. A Parliamentary petition calling for the concept to be dropped has been signed by more than 2.1million people. Grilled on the BBC's Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg this morning about how the plan could make a difference, Sir Keir said: 'I am absolutely convinced that amongst the reasons people travel through France... is because it is easier to work in our economy than it is in other countries.' Challenged why employers who were currently not carrying out legally-required checks would take more notice of a digital ID, Sir Keir said: 'The difference is this is on point of starting, not a retrospective exercise as it now is. 'It is an automatic collection of the information by the government so we know exactly who is working in our economy.' He added: 'We all acknowledge there is a problem it is amongst the reasons that people want to come to the UK.' Sir Keir attacked Reform's proposal to abolish 'settled status' and make those who currently have indefinite leave to remain re-apply under far stricter rules. Mr Farage argued that the plan would save the UK taxpayer billions of pounds. But critics pointed out that migrants who have lived in the UK for decades and have British children would be affected. Reform has since suggested pensioners, Ukrainians and Hong Kongers would be exempted. Sir Keir said: 'Well, I do think that it is a racist policy. I do think it is immoral. It needs to be called out for what it is.' Asked if Reform are trying to appeal to racists, Sir Keir said: 'No, I think there are plenty of people who either vote Reform or are thinking of voting Reform who are frustrated. 'They had 14 years of failure under the Conservatives, they want us to change things. Your browser does not support iframes. 'They may have voted Labour a year ago, and they want the change to come more quickly. I actually do understand that.' He had earlier said: 'It is one thing to say we're going to remove illegal migrants, people who have no right to be here. I'm up for that. 'It is a completely different thing to say we are going to reach in to people who are lawfully here and start removing them. They are our neighbours. 'They're people who work in our economy. They are part of who we are. It will rip this country apart.' Sir Keir promised to put an end to taxpayer-funded taxis for asylum seekers travelling to doctor's appointments 'as soon as we can'. He said: 'It shouldn't be happening. It's not fair.' Pressed on whether this would be ended immediately, he said: 'As soon as we can, but we will stop it.' Sir Keir also said he would like to bring forward the 2029 deadline the Government has set to close all asylum hotels, saying: 'I'm looking at alternative accommodation and doing everything we can to bring that forward.' The PM said he had 'thought for some time that the Left got it wrong' on immigration. Welsh Secretary Jo Stevens also turned her fire on 'nativist' Reform in her conference speech. 'Farage has turned up in Wales with patronising politics, with disrespect, division and derision for our communities,' she said. 'Reform UK don't care about Wales. They haven't got any Welsh policies. They haven't got a Welsh leader. They can't even spell Caerphilly right. 'But as much as we roll our eyes at their condescending nativist tone, they are a serious threat. 'They're a threat to our communities, a threat to our NHS and, if you work in Welsh public services, they are a threat to your livelihood.' Sir Keir argued he can 'pull this round' despite another poll showed the party on track for disaster - with Mr Farage poised to win a huge majority. 'I just need the space to get on and do the things that I need to do,' the premier said. Mr Farage has insisted Sir Keir's personal jibes at him are evidence of 'terror' about Reform's surge. In findings that will spread alarm among activists in Liverpool, More in Common research estimated that Reform would scoop 373 seats if an election were held now. Labour would be reduced to just 90 MPs, from nearly 400 currently. Meanwhile, separate polling by Ipsos Mori has put Sir Keir's personal ratings at the lowest level any PM since comparable records began in 1977. The premier has now outstripped the minus 59 net score reached by both Rishi Sunak and John Major - plunging to a dire minus 66. Asked whether he accepted he was in 'political trouble', the Prime Minister told the BBC's Sunday With Laura Kuenssberg programme: 'In politics, there are always going to be comments about leaders and leadership, particularly at times like conference. 'But I always focus on what is it we're trying to achieve.' Sir Keir gave the example of a proposed Hillsborough law, 'righting injustice that's gone on for 36 years, but also changing the position for thousands of people in the future'. Sir Keir said 'there's a lot we've achieved but we've got to do more.' Meanwhile, separate polling by Ipsos Mori has put Sir Keir's personal ratings at the lowest level any PM since comparable records began in 1977 The PM said he had been elected with a 'mandate to change the country' but added 'I always said that would take time'. Sir Keir insisted he would be 'judged' at next election on living standards and whether public services had improved. Sir Keir told The Sunday Times separately: 'I think we can pull this round.' Amid frenzied speculation that Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham could seek a return to Westminster to oust him, Sir Keir warned about 'navel-gazing'. 'It is the fight of our times and we've all got to be in it together,' he said. 'We don't have time for introspection, we don't have time for navel-gazing. 'You'll always get a bit of that at a Labour Party conference, but that is not going to solve the problems that face this country.' Britain will create a 'drone wall' to protect Nato and Ukraine from Russia amid rising tensions over Kremlin incursions, the Defence Secretary has revealed. The new low-cost British made drones have been developed in collaboration with Ukraine as the countries scramble to protect the alliance's eastern flank amid threats from Vladimir Putin's jets and drones. But in a major stumbling block which threatens to leave a 96,000 sq km hole in the middle of the 'drone wall', Hungary - one of Russia's closes allies within Nato - will not be taking part. It comes as Kyiv came under a massive overnight drone and missile attack in what appeared to be one of the biggest Russian strikes on Ukraine's capital since the start of the war. Poland has scrambled jets in response to the devastating attack. The latest strike follows a spate of reckless Russian incursions into Polish and then Estonian airspace, prompting Britain to deploy RAF Typhoons over Poland as part of an allied response. Defence Secretary John Healey said the RAF's intervention sent 'a clear signal: Nato airspace will be defended.' He added: 'I'm proud of the outstanding British pilots and air crew who took part in this successful operation to defend our allies from reckless Russian aggression.' This week, a suspected Russian 'hybrid' incursion of drones took place in Denmark and Norway, raising fresh concerns over threats from Putin. Codenamed Project Octobus, the UK and Ukraine will build new drones in British factories within weeks before deploying them to deter Russian aggression. Pictured: A downed Russian drone in Ukraine And on Saturday, reports emerged overnight unidentified drones were spotted flying over the Karlskrona archipelago in Sweden, near to a naval base. It's understood residents on the islands of Sturko and Tjurko reported seeing the drones and police spotted one when they arrived at the scene. Mr Healey told The Telegraph the 'reckless' and 'dangerous' manoeuvres would be met with a Nato response, including bolstering border defences. 'We're ready with allies through Nato to demonstrate to Putin that his aggression and his incursions, reckless or intentional, will be challenged,' he said. Codenamed Project Octobus, the UK and Ukraine will build new drones in British factories within weeks before deploying them to deter Russian aggression. European ministers met on Friday to discuss the 'drone wall' concept where ground-launched drones would be stationed on the border to fend off Russian drones or missiles. The Defence Secretary announced the UK would mass-produce the drones using 'modern manufacturing techniques that we have in this country that they haven't got' and 'supply them back in the thousands to help Ukraine defend themselves'. In an unprecedented deal, Britain and Ukraine will jointly own the intellectual property of the drones which will also allow them to be deployed in Nato countries. Mr Healey said the system could in time be used as a missile defence system in the UK to protect military sites and national infrastructure. This week, at least seven EU member states - including Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Romania and Bulgaria, will hold a joint meeting on building the drone wall. But there is no sign of Hungary taking part, despite it sharing a land border with Ukraine, making it vulnerable to Russian aggression. It raises fresh questions over Hungary's closeness to Russia, with Prime Minister Viktor Oban growing closer to Moscow. 'Without Hungary, the EU's drone wall would effectively be a Maginot Line in the sky,' Jessica Berlin, a senior fellow at the Centre for European Policy Analysis, told The Telegraph. 'The proposed EU drone wall would be an additional component of European air defence, but is no replacement for a comprehensive strategy to counter the threat from Russia,' she added. 'Spending billions on a drone wall whilst not providing sufficient support to Ukraine or inflicting maximum damage on Russia's economic war machine would be a declaration of strategic surrender.' The Maginot Line was a huge stretch of French bunkers and minefields built along France's borders with Germany, Switzerland, Italy, Luxembourg and Belgium to protect from German invasion during the war. But when Adolf Hitler's troops attacked France in 1940, they bypassed the line by simply invading via the Ardennes Forest and Belgium. Britain will create a 'drone wall' to protect Nato and Ukraine from Russia amid rising tensions over Kremlin incursions. Pictured: An explosion of a drone in the sky during a Russian missile strike on Ukraine overnight Nato scrambled jets after Vladimir Putin launched one of the heaviest drone and missile attacks on Kyiv since the start of the war It comes as Nato jets were scrambled after Putin launched one of the heaviest drone and missile attacks on Kyiv since the start of the war. The 'massive' air assault killed at least four people including a 12-year-old girl and left dozens injured after 500 drones and 40 missiles bombarded the Ukrainian capital and surrounding regions overnight. Swarms of drones were launched just hours after Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov threatened a 'decisive response' to any action against unauthorised Russian raids into NATO airspace. Neighbouring Poland, which shot down three of Putin's drones which infringed on their airspace earlier this month, scrambled jets early on Sunday as Russia pounded western Ukraine. It also temporarily shut airspace near two of its southeastern cities. The moves were preventive and aimed at securing Polish airspace and protecting citizens, in particular in areas near Ukraine, the Polish Armed Forces said. 'Due to the activity of long-range Russian air forces carrying out strikes on Ukrainian territory, Polish and allied air forces have begun operating in our airspace,' it added. 'The Operational Command of the Polish Armed Forces is monitoring the current situation, and subordinate forces and resources remain ready for immediate response.' Poland has vowed to down any hostile objects over Ukraine as the country looks to fast-track laws giving the military greater freedom to act. 'Moscow wants to continue fighting and killing and deserves only the harshest pressure from the world,' Volodymyr Zelensky said on Saturday morning following the Russian attack. He said the assault underlined the need for more punitive sanctions against Russia to force it to stop its aggression. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha added: 'Putin must feel the danger of continuing this war - personally for him, his buddies' pockets, his economy, and his regime. 'That is what can make him stop this senseless war.' Speaking before the latest assault, Zelensky said: 'Putin will not wait to finish his war in Ukraine. He will open up some other direction. Nobody knows where. He wants that.' The warning came after Lavrov spoke at the United Nations General Assembly on Saturday as unauthorised flights into Nato's airspace have raised alarm around Europe in recent weeks. NATO jets have downed drones over Poland while Estonia said Russian fighter jets flew into its territory. Russia denied that its planes entered Estonian airspace and said the drones did not target Poland, with Moscow's ally Belarus maintaining that Ukrainian signal-jamming sent the devices off course. Mr Lavrov warned that any retaliation against Russia would come with dire consequences. 'Russia has never had and does not have any such intentions' of attacking European or Nato countries, he said. 'However, any aggression against my country will be met with a decisive response.' A child migrant died today after falling off an English Channel small boat - before the overcrowded dinghy continued on its voyage to the UK. The horrific incident on Sunday morning followed two Somali women dying in similar circumstances the day before. French police said the women died by suffocation or drowning after the overloaded boat set off for the UK at around 3.15am. Of the latest death, Cecile Gressier, prosecutor in the French port town of Boulogne-sur-Mer, said the child's body washed up on nearby Ecault beach. 'An investigation has been opened to determine the circumstances of the death,' said Ms Gressier. 'The victim's age and nationality have not been determined.' Other sources at the scene suggested that the deceased was a young teenager Emergency services commander Jonathan Caruso said 48 other migrants who were on the same boat were rescued after falling into the sea, before the dinghy 'continued on to England,' with around 50 still onboard. The latest death means that at least 21 people have died this year as they attempt to reach Britain from France on a small boat. The two Somali women migrants died on Saturday, off the coast near Neufchatel-Hardelot, south of Boulogne-sur-Mer. Border Force escort migrants into Dover Docks, Kent, on September 28, 2025 Migrants sit on an inflatable boat during an attempt to cross the English Channel, off the beach of Gravelines, northern France, 27 September 2025 Migrants arrive on a beach to board an inflatable boat during an attempt to cross the English Channel, off the beach of Gravelines, northern France, 27 September 2025 The latest death means that at least 21 people have died this year as they attempt to reach Britain from France on a small boat They either suffocated on the packed boat before it disintegrated, or drowned in the sea. Boulogne prosecutors have opened a criminal enquiry into all the weekend deaths, as they try to find the people smugglers responsible for launching the boat. Children were among three who died on the route earlier this month after they were crushed at the bottom of a boat. Hundreds of migrants have been seen gathering at beaches along the coastline of northern France since Friday, following forecasts of calm sea conditions over the weekend. Despite the large numbers, riot police with truncheons and shields only watched yesterday as scores of illegal migrants prepared to make the crossing. One observer at Dover on Friday claimed that at least six Border Force cutters arrived at the port through the day and into the evening, landing more than 600 illegal migrants the vast majority men on British soil. Last year, 78 migrants died trying to reach Britain in small boats the highest number since 2018 when people smugglers started using dinghies. Since January, a record 32,000 illegal migrants have arrived in Britain by crossing the Channel and more than 50,000 have crossed since Labour came into power in July 2024. Migrants board an inflatable boat during an attempt to cross the English Channel, off the beach of Gravelines, northern France, 27 September 2025 Migrants wade through water to board an inflatable boat during an attempt to cross the English Channel A French Coats Guard boat (R) patrols as migrants onboard an inflatable boat attempt to cross the English Channel, off the beach of Gravelines, northern France, 27 September 2025 The horrific incident on Sunday morning followed two Somali women dying in similar circumstances the day before (pictured) French Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau has said of such tragedies: 'Our government will intensify the fight against these mafias who are getting rich by organising these crossings of death.' In April 2024, a criminal enquiry was launched following the deaths of five migrants including a little girl around Wimereux, near Calais. The worst tragedy of this kind came in November 2021, when 27 migrants died after a dinghy sank while heading to the UK - the highest recorded number of deaths from a single incident. Prime Minister Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron have pledged to 'strengthen cooperation' to fight the people smugglers, but they are regulary criticised for not doing enough. Both have hoped that their 'one-in-one-out' plan will in time provide a deterrent for would-be asylum seekers if they believe they risk being quickly sent back. But more than 32,000 people have crossed so far this year, and the boats continue to launch. A pensioner has been left without a front door for a month after police battered it down during a fire at a neighbouring property and refused to pay for a replacement. Nicholas Michaels, 69, was out for dinner when a neighbour called him to say there was smoke coming from a window. By the time he arrived home 10 minutes later the road had been closed by the police and he was told he could not enter due to it being in the 'danger zone' of the fire. Around an hour later, Mr Michaels was escorted back to his home in Basingstoke, Hampshire - only to find that his front door had been smashed and his upstairs windows had been left open. This had allowed smoke to enter, which had then covered his bathroom and kitchen. Officers said they broke the door down because they were concerned that he may have been asleep - despite the fire being contained to a neighbouring shop. Mr Michaels was reassured by officers who apologised and told him the force would pay for the damage the next day. The pensioner has lived alone in his flat since 1984 and was the victim of a violent home invasion in July 1998, which left him with brain damage. Nicholas Michaels, 69, pictured outside his front door which is still broken a month after police battered it down Police broke the door down saying they were concerned that Mr Michaels was asleep in his home He was unable to see in colour for a year and had to relearn how to read and write - ending his career as a computer engineer. Contractors came out to provide a quote the day after the incident, on August 26, and told him it would cost about 3,000 to fix but there was no contact from Hampshire Police. On September 12 he wrote an email to the Chief Constable asking when he could expect payment. The Force's solicitor told him four days later that they were still awaiting details about the incident - yet Mr Michaels is still waiting. Mr Michaels said: 'I have been treated with disdain and contempt. 'It seems they have forgotten about me. 'It kind of brought it all back and re-traumatised me. I started to feel nervous living here again.' He said that the incident brought up trauma from the incident 27 years ago. His door was broken despite the fire being confined to the nearby shop The pensioner has lived alone in his flat since 1984 and was the victim of a violent home invasion in July 1998 He admitted that 'everyone makes mistakes' but trusted the police to put it right. A spokesperson for Hampshire Constabulary said: 'As with all live incidents, preservation of life is our priority. 'In an ongoing situation, where people's lives could be at risk, our officers act responsibly and will not hesitate to do everything they can to ensure people are safe and accounted for. 'During this fast-moving incident, officers responded to a significant ongoing fire at an address on St Peter's Road, Basingstoke, on Tuesday, August 26. 'The officers were quickly on scene, and due to the severity of the fire, swiftly decided it was necessary to force entry to the premises above the fire due to concerns that someone may have been inside. 'Officers searched the property, which was already full of smoke, and they were able to confirm that no one was inside and ensured that all nearby properties were evacuated. 'We have since explained to the owner of the property that officers forced entry to ensure he was not inside the address. 'As the forced entry was lawful and reasonable in accordance with Section 17 of the Police and Criminal Evidence Act (PACE 1984), we are unable to meet the cost of repairs from public funds, however, the man was advised to contact the relevant insurance company. 'We sympathise with the homeowner, however, due to the nature of policing duties, loss and damage is sometimes inevitably caused and the force does not have the funds to pay compensation, unless there is a legal requirement to do so.' A senior union leader today suggested Keir Starmer needs to sack Ed Miliband and bin his Net Zero zealotry in order to get Britain making things again. Unite general secretary Sharon Graham hit out at the Energy and Net Zero secretary over the closure of two oil refineries - Grangemouth in Scotland and Lindsey in Lincolnshire - in less than a year. She accuse him of having 'no plan' for how to replace the jobs lost in the industry, which she said could hit 30,000 by 2030, saying 'we have to make things here'. She is the latest figure to hit out at Mr Miliband, who refused to relinquish his job at the recent reshuffle. The PM is said to have asked Mr Miliband to take over Angela Rayner's housing department as he reshaped his team. However, Mr Miliband refused - insisting he wanted to keep overseeing the climate drive. In a scathing attack on Labour and its links to Unite on Sky News' Sunday with Trevor Phillips, Ms Graham said he was overseeing 'a Net Zero plan that has workers at the end of the queue'. 'The person that needs to be in that job is somebody who understands really clearly that this must be a workers transition,' she said. Asked if Mr Miliband understood it, she added: 'I think so far he hasnt understood it, if he did understand it I wouldnt have two refineries closing in less than a year.' Unite general secretary Sharon Graham accused the Energy and Net Zero Secretary of having 'no plan' for how to replace the jobs lost in the industry, which could hit 30,000 by 2030 She is the latest figure to hit out at Mr Miliband, who refused to relinquish his job at the recent reshuffle. Two oil refineries - Grangemouth in Scotland (above) and Lindsey in Lincolnshire - have ceased production in less than a year. She added: We are all scratching our heads because they have just agreed to the third runway at Heathrow. Great, we lobbied for it. 'You have got Grangemouth that can produce the green aviation fuel you are going to need. 'How can you say you are going to have the third runway where you need green aviation fuel and allow the very refinery that can make it to be turned into an import terminal? 'That makes no sense and nobody can understand what is going on in relation to that.' Grangemouth owner Petroineos announced last year the refinery would be turning into an import terminal, leaving Scotland without its own refinery and posing one of the first major tests of both the UK and Scottish governments in their push for a just transition away from oil and gas. Repeated attempts to halt the closure ultimately failed, with the loss of around 100 jobs, though plans for future use of the site have been put in motion as both governments seek external investment. As a result of the closure in May, manufacturing output in Scotland reduced by 4.1 per cent that month. A Sydney woman will spend the next two decades in a French prison after her boyfriend disappeared during a hiking trip in Europe nine years ago. Samba Rukmi Widhyastuti, 64, has been found by a French court to have murdered her 28-year-old partner, Florent Gregoire, during a trip through the Pyrenees mountains on the border of France and Spain in 2016. Mr Gregoire, a French national, vanished suddenly without a trace and his body was never recovered. Widhyastuti, who is Indonesian-born, was first charged with kidnap and false imprisonment in 2019. However, she was sentenced on Friday in the city of Nantes on the more serious charge after a five-day trial. Prosecutors described it as one of the most difficult they had worked on because there was no body or confession. Mr Gregoire and Widhyastuti had been travelling through Spain to Andorra after meeting one year prior at a hostel in Bordeaux. The last time Mr Gregoire was seen was as the couple left their hostel in Andorra where staff said they did not notice anything suspicious. When he stopped calling home and did not show up at a wedding he was invited to, his family contacted local police. Samba Rukmi Widhyastuti, 64, was found guilty of murdering her 28-year-old partner Florent Gregoire by a French court Widhyastuti was described as a manipulative liar by prosecutor Claire Loumadine in court. 'This is an extremely difficult trial because you are being asked to judge a murder without a body and without confessions,' Ms Loumadine told the court, local media reported. Ms Loumadine said there was only 'one single and unique culprit' for the crime and that suicide or voluntary disappearance was out of the question. Widhyastuti's own defence lawyer, Simon Despierre, acknowledged his client's lies and said their affect was 'unbearable to hear for the loved ones waiting for answers'. However, Mr Despierre insisted Widhyastuti was not a cold blooded killer and that her case was 'filled with hypotheses and uncertainties'. Widhyastuti has been in custody since 2019 and will now remain in prison for the remainder of her 20-year sentence. She has continually denied any role in Mr Gregoire's death. What happened on the hike and where his body is remains a mystery. Widhyastuti's defence lawyer Simon Despierre said his client's lies had hurt the victim's family On September 12, 2016, Mr Gregoire checked out of the hotel with a bus ticket to Toulouse, France, but was never seen again. It is not known if he boarded the bus. Widhyastuti is understood to have kept in touch with Mr Gregoire's parents even after he vanished. The messages were to tell the parents their son was safe. Fraudulent emails were also sent from his accounts following the disappearance. Widhyastuti was arrested after she landed at Paris' Charles de Gaulle airport on a flight from Lisbon on November 28, 2019. French police spoke to Widhyastuti in Andorra in October 2019 and claim she told them that Mr Gregoire simply did not return one day after leaving their hotel room. She also said she had found traces of blood in the sink - a claim hotel staff could not confirm. Widhyastuti had previously lived in Cammeray, 5km north of Sydney's CBD, with her ex-husband and child. Sir Keir Starmer today condemned Reform's plan to strip migrants of 'settled status' as 'racist' and 'immoral'. Speaking on the first day of the Labour conference in Liverpool, the Prime Minister launched a scathing attack on Nigel Farage's party claiming they do not believe in a 'tolerant and diverse' Britain. On Monday, Reform announced it would abolish the rights of migrants to qualify for permanent settlement in the UK after five years if they were to win the next election. The status, known as indefinite leave to remain (ILR), allows people who have lived here for more than five years to apply for British citizenship and claim benefits. Reform estimates 3.8million migrants who arrived after the pandemic will be eligible for ILR between 2026 and 2030. Mr Farage - who is on course to be the next Prime Minister according to a mega poll this week - suggested ending the status will save 234billion that would be paid out in benefits for them and their dependants in the coming decades. The policy has been heavily criticised by opposition parties, with Chancellor Rachel Reeves suggesting the savings 'have no basis in reality' and Tory shadow home secretary Chris Philp calling the plans 'half-baked and unworkable'. Sir Keir today gave his view on the policy, telling the BBC's Laura Kuenssberg: 'I do think that it is a racist policy. I do think it is immoral. It needs to be called out for what it is.' Here, you can have your say in the Daily Mail's latest poll on whether you think Reform's plan is 'racist' - as the Prime Minister claims. In yesterday's poll, Mail readers were asked: Can Keir Starmer regain lead for Labour over Reform? Out of 35,611 votes, 4 per cent said 'yes' and 96 per cent 'no'. A 13-year-old schoolboy has been arrested after four people were run over by a black Range Rover in a series of hit-and-run crashes. The boy was detained following four collisions which took place in just over three hours on Friday morning in Boston and Alford in Lincolnshire. The child, who was released on bail on Saturday, was arrested on suspicion of causing serious injury by dangerous driving, driving whilst unfit through drugs, driving without a licence or insurance and aggravated vehicle taking. Police appealed for information after a string of reports of a driver who knocked cyclists off their bikes, hospitalising one, before driving off. The first crash was reported at 6.44am when a male cyclist was seriously injured and taken to hospital after being knocked off his bike on Priory Road in Boston. Less than two hours later another male cyclist was pushed off his bike in Alford by the Range Rover which did not stop. Twenty minutes after that crash, an elderly man suffered minor injuries when the car mowed him down, before almost colliding with a small child. Shortly after 10am a further crash was reported when a cyclist was knocked off his bike by the black vehicle which again did not stop. A 13-year-old schoolboy has been arrested after four people were run over by a black Range Rover in a series of hit-and-run crashes in Lincolnshire The 13-year-old was then detained in Louth, Lincolnshire. Investigating Officer Sgt Billy Spence, said: 'I appreciate this is an unusual and, most likely, a worrying set of incidents for people who may been in the area at the time, and we are of course sending our best wishes and thoughts to those injured for a quick and full recovery. 'We have a young man in custody who is helping us with our enquiries, and we are keeping an open mind about the exact events of today, but we believe these incidents are linked. 'We do need the help of the public in order to make sure we have as much information and evidence as possible in order to carry out a thorough enquiry. If you have any dashcam footage, CCTV, witnesses, or any other information that could help and haven't already spoken to us we would appreciate you getting in touch. 'I would also ask that the wider public do not speculate about what has happened here today and allow us to carry out our enquiries as fairly and freely as possible.' News / Africa by Staff Reporter CHIEF Justice Godfrey Chidyausiku will write to President Mugabe to explain the allegations of misconduct being levelled against High Court judge Justice Charles Hungwe.Highly-placed sources at the High Court said yesterday that Justice Chidyausiku was likely to write to the Head of State and Government and Commander-in-Chief of theZimbabwe Defence Forces in terms of section 87 (3) of the Constitution that deals with the removal of judges from office.The source said this comes in the wake of a recent meeting the Chief Justice had with Justice Hungwe where he explained the charges being levelled against him."After explaining the charges to Justice Hungwe, the Chief Justice asked him if he had anything to say in his defence to which Justice Hungwe said 'No, I am in your hands."'However, The Herald could not establish when the Chief Justice was likely to write to the President.The source said the Chief Justice is likely to write on complaints regarding delays Justice Hungwe made in finalising a case pitting the State against Jonathan Mutsinze, an armed robber and murderer he convicted 10 years ago but has failed to sentence after losing the court record.Justice Hungwe is also being accused of issuing a search warrant to the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission mid March this year in circumstances that were questionable and at variance with the Anti-Corruption Commission Act.Armed with the order, the ZACC investigators targeted mainly Zanu-PF ministers in Government, among them Transport, Communication and Infrastructural Development Minister Cde Nicholas Goche, Mines and Mining Development Minister Obert Mpofu and Youth Development, Indigenisation and Empowerment Minister Saviour Kasukuwere.Justice Hungwe, the source said, was also told the order he issued for the release of lawyer Mrs Beatrice Mtetwa asAasAAasAA who had been arrested by the police facing charges of obstructing the course of justice asAasAAasAA was in question.Reports say the order was issued at midnight at Justice Hungwe's farm in Darwendale in Mashonaland West Province in the presence of a High Court official and Mrs Mtetwa's defence team.The source said the police and Attorney-General's Office were not given the opportunity to be heard before the order was issued out.The President is empowered, in terms of section 87 (3) of the Constitution, to order some investigations into the conduct of a judge upon being apprised of the matter by the Chief Justice.The law reads: "If, in the case of a judge of the Supreme Court or the High Court other than the Chief Justice, the Chief Justice advises the President that the question of removal from office of the judge concerned ought to be investigated, the President shall appoint a tribunal to inquire into the matter."In terms of the same section, the President instituted a Commission of Inquiry to probe the conduct of retired judge Justice Fergus Blackie at the instance of former Chief Justice Anthony Gubbay when he failed to discharge his duties in similar circumstances.The Law Society of Zimbabwe issued a statement expressing concern at what they perceived as deliberate targeting of Justice Hungwe without saying anything about people affected by his conduct. Fewer students are enrolling in schools in Chicago amid President Donald Trump's ICE raids in the liberal city, according to officials. As part of his agenda, Trump has repeatedly said his administration will bring in Immigration and Customs Enforcement to Democratic-run cities in a bid to crack down on crime and violence. Recently, his target has been on the Illinois city, despite major push back from Governor JB Pritzker and Mayor Brandon Johnson. As a result of ICE officials storming into Chicago, there has been a drastic drop in student enrollment across the city. On the 20th day of the new school year, enrollment fell to 316,224 students, Interim Chief Executive Officer Macquline King informed the Chicago Board of Education Thursday. Compared to last year, that number is down by 9,000 students and more than 100,000 under the count over the past 20 years, Bloomberg reported. The decline in one of the largest school districts in the US has spanned across all grade levels and has also impacted the economically disadvantaged, those with temporary living accommodations and English-language learners, per the outlet. King did not specifically say why the decline has happened, but acknowledged the immigration crackdown in the city creating challenges for families across the city. Student enrollment fell to 316,224 in Chicago public schools, according to officials. The number has dropped at the same time as Trump sending ICE agents to raid the city. (Pictured: ICE protestors sitting outside the Broadview Processing Center on Friday) Trump (pictured Friday in Washington D.C.) has promised to bring ICE agents into Democratic cities plagued by crime and violence, and Chicago is one of them A major factor contributing to the drop has been the 'sharp decline' in the district's school-age population because birth rates have fallen in the last two decades, according to Hal Woods, chief of policy for Kids First Chicago - an advocacy group. Although 'enrollment declines have also been particularly acute in the past year', Woods told the outlet it is unclear whether families have fled the city or are just not enrolling their children in public schools. The largest decline was recorded amongst students who identify as LatinX and black, who make up a majority of the overall population in Chicago Public Schools, a district spokesperson said. This year alone, the enrollment from the LatinX population fell 4.5 percent to 146,862, while black student enrollment dropped 2.6 percent to 108,380 students, per the spokesperson. During the meeting on Thursday, King noted that the district is also struggling financially as it faces continuous setbacks in aid from the state, city and the federal government. Specifically, she said the federal government is threatening to refuse giving the district $12 million because of its policies that support black and transgender students. 'I know that this continues to be a time of great fear and anxiety for many of our students and families but I want to emphasize again that CPS is fully prepared and that our schools remain the best and safest place for children in Chicago,' King said. 'Except in the rarest circumstances, CPS will not share student information with any federal agent and no federal agent will be allowed to access our schools.' ICE agents are seen trying to quell protestors at the Broadview facility Illinois Governor JB Pritzker (pictured September 9) and Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson have made it clear they are not on board with Trump's move into their city Earlier this month Trump threatened the big city with a 'Chipocalypse' ahead of ICE raids. Trump, 79, took to his social media platform, Truth Social, to post a meme about himself, where he wrote: 'I love the smell of deportations in the morning. 'Chicago about to find out why it's called the Department of WAR.' Trump recently rebranded the Department of Defense to the Department of War. The White House then reposted it on X with three helicopter emojis. Governor JB Pritzker responded to Trump's post on X, writing: 'The President of the United States is threatening to go to war with an American city. 'This is not a joke. This is not normal. 'Donald Trump isn't a strongman, he's a scared man. Illinois wont be intimidated by a wannabe dictator.' A protestor is seen outside the Broadview facility on Saturday as Trump's administration brings in 'Operation Midway Blitz' to crackdown on immigration issues in the city Mayor Brandon Johnson also responded, writing: 'The Presidents threats are beneath the honor of our nation, but the reality is that he wants to occupy our city and break our Constitution. 'We must defend our democracy from this authoritarianism by protecting each other and protecting Chicago from Donald Trump.' The president's threats came as ICE started to ready a raid on the Windy City after Trump said he selected it for the next federal military takeover. The Department War asked the Pentagon to have access to Naval Station Great Lakes - the largest military base in Illinois - to base the operation, The Washington Post reported. The request said that around 250 federal agents and 140 vehicles would utilize the base. National Guard troops could also be sent in to assist the effort, according to The Chicago Sun-Times. Equipment and personnel started arriving at the naval base earlier this month. One MAGA radio personality has branded it the beginning of 'the siege of Chicago.' Chicago isn't the only city that's been targeted by Trump's administration, as the commander-in-chief ordered troops be sent to Portland, Oregon on Saturday. Trump, who said the blue city is 'war ravaged' and besieged by left wing 'domestic terrorists', said the move was necessary to protect ICE facilities supposedly under attack by Antifa, a loosely organized far-left movement that is against fascism. 'I am directing Secretary of War, Pete Hegseth , to provide all necessary Troops to protect War ravaged Portland, and any of our ICE Facilities under siege from attack by Antifa, and other domestic terrorists,' Trump wrote on his Truth Social account. Trump also said he is authorizing 'full force, if necessary', but did not further elaborate. There have been numerous protests at the ICE building in South Portland over the last several months. Police have launched an urgent probe after a woman was gang raped at a churchyard by a group of men. The woman in her 30s was raped at St Mary's Church's churchyard in Banbury, Oxfordshire, and in the surrounding areas in the town centre in the early hours of Sunday morning. A woman is believed to have tried to help the victim during the 'horrific crime', Thames Valley Police said. The force are searching for witnesses or anyone with information in relation to the rape. They will be conducting house to house and CCTV enquiries as they hunt for the perpetrators. Investigating officer, Detective Sergeant Mark Personius said: 'This is a horrific crime and Thames Valley Police is conducting a thorough investigation to identify the offenders. 'We are supporting the victim with specifically trained officers at this extremely difficult time. 'I am making a public appeal to a specific witness, a woman, who we believe may have tried to help the victim. Police have launched an urgent probe after a woman was gang raped in St Mary's Church's churchyard in Banbury 'At this stage we don't have a description of this Good Samaritan. However, if you believe you are the woman, please contact the police as you may have vital information that can help us piece together what happened. 'The town centre would have been busy on a Saturday night into the early hours of a Sunday morning. Therefore, I would also appeal to anyone else who saw or heard anything in the area between about 12am and 2.30am this morning to come forward. 'Please check any CCTV, dashcam or mobile phone footage you have from the area and if you have captured anything that you think may help us, please get in touch. 'You can contact the force by speaking to an officer at the scene, calling 101 or via a dedicated webpage for this investigation, where you can leave any footage from the area. The investigation reference number is 43250495078. 'There is a scenewatch in place at the church to enable us to carry our forensic examinations. We will also be conducting house to house and CCTV enquiries. 'I would like to thank local residents and businesses for their ongoing support while we are in the area carrying out our investigation.' St Mary's Church said in a statement: 'Due to an incident in the churchyard last night, we currently have no access to church. It is with deep regret that we are therefore having to cancel today's parish Eucharist. Please pray for those affected by whatever happened last night.' It later added: 'We are deeply saddened to hear of this incident and are praying for the victim. If you have any information, please share this with the police.' Hidden in a remote, moss-covered mountain forest lay the remains of a World War II hero for 82 years, until loggers discovered his B-17 bomber by chance. Sgt. Thomas L. Cotner, from Casper, Wyoming, was a Silver Star recipient during World War II. In September of 1942, Cotner, aboard a B-17 Bomber on a night mission in Rabaul, Japan, was never heard from again until researcher Justin Taylan identified the hero in New Guinea, according to the Cowboy State Daily. Cotner served as a radio operator and gunner during his service and was a member of the notorious 30th Squadron of the 19th Bombardment. He was on a mission to destroy the Vunakanau Airfield with the secondary target of Lakunai Airfield. Three hundred and sixty-seven anti-aircraft weapons defended the area, and Allied intelligence referred to it as 'the most heavily defended target in the South-West Pacific Area,' according to pacificwrecks.com. Cortner and seven other Flying Fortresses left from Mareeba Airfield, each armed with four 500-pound bombs. 'The weather was extremely bad with rain, lightning and thunderstorms and no moon,' according to mission records found by the outlet. Each bomber flew individually in radio silence, but the weather was so catastrophic that only two of the seven reached the target. Sgt. Thomas L. Cotner, from Casper, Wyoming, was a Silver Star recipient that went missing during World War II Researcher Justin Taylan identified the hero after 82 years of him missing Taylan said to the source: 'This plane was never heard from after takeoff. We know now, based on where it crashed, that it reached the target and likely bombed and probably was lost returning from the mission in bad weather.' Cotner's hometown paper broke the news of his disappearance in October of that year: 'Word was received in Casper on Monday night from the War Department that Sergeant Tom Stoutenberg, son of Mr. and Mrs. Emma Stoutenberg, is reported missing in action since September 16th. No details were contained in the message.' For more than eight decades, Cotner and the missing bomber plane remained a mystery until a logging company cutting down trees in the mountains of New Britain Island discovered the plane by accident while building a road. 'This plane was discovered by accident and some pictures were posted online. I saw them and realized, 'Oh my God, this is an American airplane. It's a B-17.'' said Taylan to the outlet. The site of the crash was high up in the mossy mountain forest, where Taylan said that, although the climate is tropical, the elevation of the area causes a person's breath to form condensation from the chill. Taylan learned about the mysterious wreckage while researching a separate missing incident in Papua New Guinea in 2023. Cotner served as a radio operator and gunner during his service and was a member of the notorious 30th Squadron of the 19th Bombardment Cortner and seven other B-17 Bombers left from Mareeba Airfield, each armed with four 500-pound bombs The researcher arrived at the Cotner's bomber in less than a month, using the serial number of the plane, which allowed him to confirm its identity. Taylan explained what he saw: 'There were remains in the open that I saw, but these are from an airplane crash. In World War II, it was a violent thing.' 'We're not talking about a complete skeleton, but rather bone fragments from where 80 years have left human remains. I have no doubt that most or all of the crew died in this plane.' Cotner's fraternal twin, Ted Cortner, was in the Army Air Corps during the same time as Tom. After Ted returned from his service, he worked for newspapers in Oregon until he died in 2005. Taylan described his disappointment that the plane wasn't discovered before Ted died because he would have been able to identify if it was Tom inside the plane: 'From a genetic standpoint, the DNA identification thing, this work of identifying remains of a fraternal twin.' '(Ted) would have the same DNA as the deceased, so he would be a perfect match to identify his fraternal twin brother.' Taylan further described how a B-17 that has been missing for 82 years is not a top priority of the military: The reality is they're so inundated with tasks worldwide.' Cortner and seven other Flying Fortresses left from Mareeba Airfield, each armed with four 500-pound bombs. However, his plane never returned Laylan (far right) arrived at the Cotner's bomber in less than a month, using the serial number of the plane, which allowed him to confirm its identity He added that the longer the plane sits there, it's more likely locals will take pieces or 'things' will happen to it. 'If this were my relatives - my uncle, my father, grandfather - I would sure want something done quickly.' Cotner is forever honored in Wyoming at the Fallen Veterans Memorial in Casper. The memorial holds over 1,670 Wyoming soldiers who died or disappeared in combat, including Cotner. A similar story occurred about Lieutenant James Allan, who disappeared during World War I. In 2023, the same year Cotner was found, Allan's remains were discovered 108 years later by construction workers building a new hospital in Lens, France. The Ministry of Defence asked Alan's great-nephew to provide DNA to identify the fallen soldier. Lt. Allan was laid to rest in Lens with full military honors in September of this year. The Chicago Teachers Union was slammed for their memorial post honoring the recent death of fugitive Black activist and cop-killer Assata Shakur. Tupac Shakur's godmother died on Thursday at 78 in Cuba, after she escaped a life term for murdering a New Jersey cop in 1973. The CTU mourned Assata Shakur's death in an X post on Friday, writing 'we honor the life and legacy of a revolutionary fighter, a fierce writer, a revered elder of Black liberation, and a leader of freedom whose spirit continues to live in our struggle'. They added the fugitive Black liberation activist 'refused to be silenced' and 'taught us that it is our duty to fight for our freedom'. The CTU's appraisal drew immense social media backlash for 'openly celebrating a murderer'. New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy condemned the tribute in a fiery response, calling it 'shameful and depraved'. 'She was convicted of the murder New Jersey State Trooper Werner Foerster, who was executed in cold blood. The Chicago Teachers Union was slammed for their memorial post honoring the recent death of fugitive Black activist and cop-killer Assata Shakur New Jersey State Trooper Werner Foerster, pictured, was killed during a stop on the New Jersey Turnpike in 1973 Rapper Tupac Shakur (pictured). His godmother, Assata, died on Thursday at 78 in Cuba after she escaped a life term for murdering a New Jersey cop in 1973. 'There are so many worthy heroes to celebrate. She is not one of them.' Corey DeAngelis, a senior fellow at the American Culture Project, pushed back on the tribute in a statement to FOX News Digital, calling the union 'the most unhinged organization on Earth'. He added the post should be a 'wake-up call' for Chicago teachers who feel like their union is not portraying an accurate representation of them. 'The Chicago Teachers Union, which is supposed to be responsible for educating kids, is honoring a convicted murderer using its official social media account.' Despite the controversial reactions, other organizations shared similar memorial posts supporting the CTU. Social justice activist group Black Lives Matter Grassroots Inc., commemorated Shakur on Friday, writing 'May her courage, wisdom, and deep, abiding love permeate through every dimension and guide us.' The Democratic Socialists also mourned the fugitive activist, blaming the US for 'brutally oppressing Assata' and praising Cuba for welcoming her. 'The Cubans welcomed her and other Black Revolutionaries with asylum, and their solidarity and loyalty allowed Assata to live out her days in Havana,' they wrote on X. Trooper Werner Foerster, 34, was killed in the gunfire exchange, leaving behind his wife and three-year-old son Shakur was a member of the Black Panther Party and Black Liberation Army. She and two others were involved in a gunfight with New Jersey State Police Troopers following a highway traffic stop. Trooper Werner Foerster, 34, was killed, leaving behind his wife and three-year-old son. Another officer was injured in the gunfire and one of Shakur's accomplices was also killed. Shakur was wanted for several felonies at the time and was found guilty of murder, armed robbery and other crimes in 1977 and was sentenced to life in prison, only to escape in November 1979. In 2013, she became the first woman to be added to FBI's Most Wanted List under the name Joanne Chesimard. There was a $1 million reward for her capture. Despite the thorny controversy, Shakur claimed innocence in her autobiography, writing that she did not shoot anyone and had her hands in the air during the gunfire. The Daily Mail reached out to the CTU for comment. Denmark has ordered a ban on drone flights following fresh sightings of suspicious aerial objects above military bases. The Danish military said in a statement it had deployed 'several capacities' in response to the overnight sightings at bases, declining further comment on the nature of its response. It comes as drones were spotted hovering over Danish military sites overnight for a second day straight, setting NATO's alarm bells ringing. 'The Armed Forces can confirm that drones have been observed at several of the Armed Forces' locations during the night. Several capacities were deployed,' the military said in a statement on Sunday. It provided no other details about the incidents or the military' response, and Danish media reported that no airports had been closed due to the drone presence overnight. Three planes were also diverted away from an airport in Fuerteventura, Canary Islands, on Sunday, after drones were spotted. Mysterious sightings across Denmark and Norway since September 22 prompted the closure of several airports, with Denmark hinting as potential Russian involvement. On Saturday, Denmark's military said unidentified drones had been observed over 'several military sites' overnight Friday, but refused to disclose any further details. Drones were spotted at Danish military bases overnight in the latest of a series of aerial attacks that some European officials have linked to Russia. (Pictured: A mobile radar installation put up to spot drones) Aalborg and Billund airports were closed overnight on Wednesday into Thursday as drones flew towards them and bases where Danish F-16 and F-35 warplanes are based Police officers stand guard after all traffic has been closed at the Copenhagen Airport due to drone reports in Copenhagen, Denmark September 22, 2025 Police did confirm that 'one to two drones' had been observed on Friday evening near and over the Karup military base, the country's biggest base which houses all of the armed forces' helicopters, airspace surveillance, flight school and support functions. Possible sightings were also reported in Germany, Norway and Lithuania. Aalborg and Billund airports were closed overnight on Wednesday into Thursday as drones flew towards them and bases where Danish F-16 and F-35 warplanes are based. And drones in Copenhagen grounded flights in the Danish capital for hours on Monday night. There have also been incursions into Polish, Estonian and Romanian airspace in recent weeks. The Danish defense ministry said that the country's government had accepted an offer from Sweden to 'lend Denmark a military anti-drone capability'. In Germany, several drones were reported in the northern state of Schleswig-Holstein, which borders Denmark, from Thursday into Friday night. The country's interior minister, Sabine Sutterlin-Waack, said that 'the state police are currently significantly stepping up their drone defense measures, also in coordination with other northern German states'. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said that in regard to frequent attacks on infrastructure and data networks, 'we are not at war, but we are no longer living in peace either.' The Kremlin has been accused of launching a campaign of hybrid attacks across Europe, exposing the vulnerability of the continent's airspace at a time of high tensions between Moscow and NATO. European ministers are now scrambling to draw up plans for a continent-wide 'drone wall' to counter Moscow's alleged aerial incursions, as the Kremlin warns that any strike on its aircraft would result in direct conflict with NATO. Nations including Denmark, Finland, Poland and the Baltic states joined Ukraine at a summit on Friday to thrash out plans for what EU chief Ursula von der Leyen has described as 'the bedrock of credible defence.' NATO has 'enhanced vigilance' in the Baltic following the intrusions, a spokesperson for the defence alliance said. The reinforced measures 'include multiple intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance platforms and at least one air-defence frigate' in the region to the west of Russia, alliance spokesman Martin O'Donnell told a press conference overnight Saturday to Sunday. Copenhagen is to host a European Union summit gathering heads of government on Wednesday and Thursday. The UK Defence Secretary also revealed that Britain will create a 'drone wall' to to protect NATO and Ukraine from Russia amid rising tensions over Kremlin incursions. The new low-cost British made drones have been developed in collaboration with Ukraine as the countries scramble to protect the alliance's eastern flank amid threats from Vladimir Putin's jets and drones. Codenamed Project Octobus, the UK and Ukraine will build new drones in British factories within weeks before deploying them to deter Russian aggression. Pictured: A downed Russian drone in Ukraine Your browser does not support iframes. But in a major stumbling block which threatens to leave a 96,000sq km hole in the middle of the 'drone wall', Hungary - one of Russia's closes allies within NATO - will not be taking part. It comes as Kyiv came under a massive overnight drone and missile attack in what appeared to be one of the biggest Russian strikes on Ukraine's capital since the start of the war. Poland has scrambled jets in response to the devastating attack. The latest strike follows a spate of reckless Russian incursions into Polish and then Estonian airspace, prompting Britain to deploy RAF Typhoons over Poland as part of an allied response. Defence Secretary John Healey said the RAF's intervention sent 'a clear signal: NATO airspace will be defended.' He added: 'I'm proud of the outstanding British pilots and air crew who took part in this successful operation to defend our allies from reckless Russian aggression.' Codenamed Project Octobus, the UK and Ukraine will build new drones in British factories within weeks before deploying them to deter Russian aggression. European ministers met on Friday to discuss the 'drone wall' concept where ground-launched drones would be stationed on the border to fend off Russian drones or missiles. The Defence Secretary announced the UK would mass-produce the drones using 'modern manufacturing techniques that we have in this country that they haven't got' and 'supply them back in the thousands to help Ukraine defend themselves'. On Sunday NATO jets were scrambled after Putin launched one of the heaviest drone and missile attacks on Kyiv since the start of the war. The 'massive' aerial bombardment that lasted more than 12 hours killed at least four people including a 12-year-old girl and left dozens injured after almost 600 drones and 40 missiles hit the Ukrainian capital and surrounding regions overnight. Some 595 exploding drones and decoys and 48 missiles were launched just hours after Russian foreign minister Sergey Lavrov threatened a 'decisive response' to any action against unauthorised Russian raids into NATO airspace. Explosions light up the sky over the city during Russian drone and missile strikes, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, in Kyiv, Ukraine September 28, 2025 The 'massive' air assault killed at least four people including a 12-year-old girl and left dozens injured Your browser does not support iframes. Of those, air defences shot down or jammed 566 drones and 45 missiles. Russia's defence ministry confirmed the massive overnight strike, declaring in a statement: 'Last night, the armed forces of the Russian Federation launched a massive strike with high-precision long-range air, sea-based weapons and unmanned aerial vehicles against enterprises of the military-industrial complex of Ukraine used in the interests of the armed forces of Ukraine, as well as the infrastructure of military airfields'. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has warned that Ukraine will retaliate and said the 'vile' attack showed Moscow 'wants to continue fighting and killing'. The president added that Zaporizhzhia, Khmelnytskyi, Sumy, Mykolaiv, Chernihiv, and Odesa regions were also hit in the aerial attack. Ivan Fedorov, Zaporizhzhia's Governor, said 31 people had been injured in the region, including three children - two boys, aged 11 and 12, and a nine-year-old girl. Zelensky vowed that the war-torn country 'will strike back' in an attempt to 'force diplomacy' from Russia, and said he was counting on a 'strong reaction' from Europe and the US. 'This dastardly attack took place in fact as the end of the week of the UN General Assembly, and this is how Russia declares its real position,' he said. A former headteacher from beloved Channel 4 show Educating Yorkshire has hit back after being labelled a 'paedophile and groomer' for striking up a relationship with a woman nearly 30 years his junior. Jonny Mitchell, 53, became an unlikely heartthrob when he starred on the show as the headteacher at Thornhill Community Academy, in Dewsbury, West Yorkshire, more than a decade ago. At the time he lived with his wife Lisa and their three daughters, but it's fair to say his life has taken a dramatic turn. Mr Mitchell separated from his wife in 2014 and has since moved on with a 25-year-old former police officer called Abi McMahon, who frequently speaks about their age gap relationship on her TikTok channel. The couple have maintained their relationship is 'completely normal' and that they have 'so much in common', despite the significant age gap. Although Ms McMahon would have been in Year 9 when her now partner was on Educating Yorkshire, she has previously revealed she went to school in Nottingham - the city she grew up in. They couple met for the first time during a night out in Leeds in September 2021 when Ms McMahon accidentally spilt a cocktail on Mr Mitchell. The pair began talking from there, exchanged numbers and decided to 'go on a few dates' before completely falling for each other. Ms McMahon, a former police officer turned blogger from Nottingham, has now moved into her older partner's rented stone cottage in Huddersfield, West Yorkshire. Jonny Mitchell (pictured), 53, became an unlikely heartthrob when he starred on the show as the headteacher at Thornhill Community Academy, in Dewsbury, West Yorkshire, more than a decade ago The couple have maintained their relationship is 'completely normal' and that they have 'so much in common', despite the significant age gap. (Jonny Mitchell, 53, pictured with his girlfriend, Abs, 25) Hitting back at the haters, Mr Mitchell told Sheron Boyle for The Sun: 'I've been branded a paedophile, a groomer, a dirty old man and far worse.' 'I never thought I'd fall in love again let alone with a woman so much younger than me but you can't legislate who you meet.' Taking a similar stance against the online trolls, Ms McMahon added: 'I've been labelled online as a gold digger, an embarrassment and the worst was one who told me to kill myself. 'People will think I must have daddy issues - I definitely don't. I want people to simply not judge others not so quickly.' Mr Mitchell, who is now semi-retired after winning national acclaim as the original head teacher in the first series of Educating Yorkshire 12 years ago, separated from his wife in 2014 and the couple divorced a year later. The ex-teacher, who has been with his new partner for four years, said his marriage had broken down and that they would have separated earlier had they not had young children. Mr Mitchell admits that some family members had reservations at the start of his relationship with a younger woman, but were put at ease when they met Ms McMahon. Ms McMahon, who has 29,000 followers on TikTok, is on a journey to break down any stigma about age gap relationships and regularly posts videos about it. Mr Mitchell stole the nation's hearts when he appeared in the eight-part documentary in 2013. The show first broadcast more than a decade ago and was based on the same format as the BAFTA winning series, Educating Essex, which came out in 2011. Ms McMahon, who has 29,000 followers on TikTok, is on a journey to break down any stigma about age gap relationships and regularly posts videos about it The series followed pupils and staff at Thornhill Community Academy, a secondary school in Yorkshire, receiving rave reviews across the board and scoring fans across the world. Mr Mitchell was loved by viewers as he was students. Two years after the show ended in 2015, he went on to take a role as headteacher at Co-op Academy in Leeds, where he stayed for a number of years. He later became the headteacher of Netherwood Academy, in Barnsley, and is now deciding on his next venture in education. Mr Mitchell has previously said he was 'proud' of his contributions in Educating Yorkshire. He told Barnsley Chronicle in 2020: 'The series is very much part of Thornhill and theres a legacy there. 'The whole franchise did a great deal for the teaching profession. It opened the publics eyes to something theyd only experienced 25 or 30 years ago.' A legendary lawyer known for targeting Osama bin Laden and bringing down the Illinois mob is coming out of retirement to defend former FBI director James Comey. Prosecutor Patrick Fitzgerald, 64, served as a US attorney in Chicago for more than a decade, and he is a longtime friend and former colleague of Comey, 64. Comey was charged this week with allegedly allowing an insider at the FBI to divulge information to the media and lying about it in a 2020 Senate hearing. The leaks are widely believed to be about Hillary Clinton's email scandal and alleged pro-Trump interference by Russia in the 2016 election. Comey has denied both counts. The New York-born former intelligence boss was fired by Donald Trump in 2020, and the indictments against him mark the culmination of a bitter relationship between the two which has escalated ever since. But while Comey has publicly blasted Trump as a 'tyrant' and said he is 'not afraid' to fight the case in court, his lawyer Fitzgerald rarely lets his personal feelings about a case known. Fitzgerald's colleagues have said he is a fearless prosecutor whose argument is always rooted in the facts. Patrick Collins, a former federal prosecutor who led the case against former Gov. George Ryan, a Republican, described him as a formidable legal force. Legendary lawyer Patrick Fitzgerald (pictured), who is known for targeting Osama bin Laden and bringing down the Illinois mob is coming out of retirement to defend former FBI director James Comey. Fitzgerald, 64, served as a US attorney in Chicago for more than a decade Former spy boss Comey (pictured) was charged this week with allegedly allowing an insider at the FBI to leak information to the media and lying about it in a 2020 Senate hearing 'Pat was out of central casting to be the incorruptible guy that was in aggressive pursuit of the facts and dispensing justice and vindicating the public's right for honest government,' Collins told NBC News. 'As a line assistant who was intensely involved in a prosecution and worked in an office that had a reputation for prosecuting without fear or favor, having Pat Fitzgerald as your boss - he had your back,' he added. 'We always knew that cases would rise or fall on the facts.' Robert Grant, former FBI special agent in charge of the Chicago office at the time Fitzgerald served as US, said the prosecutor has been close with Comey for years. 'Comey implicitly trusts Pat Fitzgerald. They've been best friends, or really good friends, for years,' Grant told NBC. 'They're that close, and he also has a tremendous amount of respect for Pat.' Fitzgerald is best known for bringing down Vice President Dick Cheney's chief of staff Lewis 'Scooter' Libby for perjury after he leaked the identity of a CIA officer. He was also the first to bring a case against bin Laden in 1996 - years before the al-Qaeda militant masterminded the September 11 terror attacks in 2001. Comey was fired by Donald Trump in 2020, and the indictments against him are the culmination of a bitter relationship between the two which has escalated ever since Fitzgerald was the first to bring a case against Osama bin Laden (pictured) in 1996 - years before the al-Qaeda militant masterminded the September 11 terror attacks in 2001 Fitzgerald, who was appointed as a US attorney by George Bush, went on to dismantle the Chicago mob by snaring longtime 'untouchables' in the city. He is also no stranger to political prosecutions: he took down two consecutive Illinois governors, one Democrat and another Republican. Though he retired in June 2023, Fitzgerald is returning to the spotlight to fight for his longtime friend Comey, who is accused of making false statements to Congress. Pictured: Prosecutor Patrick Fitzgerald Comey has denied lying to a Senate committee in 2020 about whether he authorized someone at the FBI to leak information to the media. The case, which is heavily supported by President Donald Trump, is believed to be about two leaks - one regarding the Hillary Clinton emails, and another about alleged Russian interference in the 2016 election. Though the two-page indictment contains scarce detail about the case, it states that Comey has been charged with one count of making false statements and another of obstructing justice. Both counts relate to Comey's appearance before the Senate Judiciary Committee in September 2020 where he was questioned about pro-Trump election interference, and Clinton's use of a private email server. During the hearing, Texas Republican Senator Ted Cruz quizzed Comey about his testimony three years before where he denied approving an FBI official to leak information to the media. Comey reiterated his earlier stance that he had not approved anyone to be an anonymous media source. The former FBI boss has lashed out at Trump over the charges, calling him a 'tyrant', while the president celebrated the indictment on Truth Social and called Comey 'one of the worst human beings in this Country'. Comey has been a staunch critic of Donald Trump since the president fired him in 2017 Pictured: Former FBI director James Comey is sworn in during a hearing before the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence on Capitol Hill June 8, 2017 in Washington, DC Comey said he was 'not afraid' and promised his family would 'not live on our knees' as he prepared to surrender Friday morning on the charges against him. 'Somebody that I love dearly recently said that fear is the tool of a tyrant and she's right but I'm not afraid and I hope you're not either,' Comey wrote this week on Instagram. 'My family and I have known for years that there are costs to standing up to Donald Trump. But we couldn't imagine ourselves living any other way. We will not live on our knees and you shouldn't either.' 'I hope instead you're engaged, you're paying attention and you will vote like your beloved country depends on it, which it does,' Comey added. 'My heart is broken for the Department of Justice but I have great confidence in the federal judicial system. I'm innocent, so let's have a trial and keep the faith.' Attorney General Pam Bondi confirmed the charges against Comey in a post to social media Thursday evening. 'No one is above the law,' she wrote. 'Today's indictment reflects this Department of Justice's commitment to holding those who abuse positions of power accountable for misleading the American people. We will follow the facts in this case.' The case will be overseen by former Biden appointee Judge Michael Nachmanoff. This is the moment a car ploughed into a group of hooded men during a terrifying 'knife fight' on another day in 'Lawless London'. Shocking footage shows two knife-wielding thugs appearing to slash their weapons at two other men in the middle of the road by the London Central Mosque in Regent's Park. The broad daylight brawl showed National Express coaches, London buses and other motorists brought to a complete standstill as they watched a suspected stabbing frenzy unfold before their eyes. But it took an even further dramatic turn when a motorist appeared out of nowhere, cutting across the road to take out the two men wielding knives. Despite the group being ploughed into, the fight showed no sign of stopping as they spilt onto the pavement while onlookers beeped their horns and pedestrians pleaded with them to stop. While one of the men was on the ground after being struck by the car, another started slashing at him with a knife as he tried to make it into his getaway car. As he tried to stand up again, he was pushed to the ground once more and kicked by another assailant. One man was found with stab injuries following the attack, but they are not thought to be life-threatening, police said. A 30-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of affray and remains in custody. A car came barrelling into two of the men midway through a 'knife fight' in Regents Park, London A Met police spokesperson said: 'Met Police received multiple reports of a large disturbance on Park Road, NW8 at around 3.48pm on Saturday, 27 September. 'A group of men were witnessed fighting in the road before being involved in a collision with a single vehicle. 'Officers responded, and one man was located with stab injuries. His injuries are not believed to be life-changing or life-threatening. 'A 30-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of affray. He remains in custody and enquiries are ongoing. 'Any other information can be shared with police by calling 101 or online, quoting 01/8021115/25. 'Alternatively, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or by submitting an online form.' Angela Rayner was hailed as a 'working-class hero' at Labour's conference today - just three weeks after she resigned following her failure to pay enough tax. The former deputy prime minister was also afforded a standing ovation by Labour members at the party's gathering in Liverpool this afternoon. This was despite it coming less than a month after Ms Rayner quit her Government roles following her tearful admission she failed to pay correct stamp duty on a flat. Her departure followed a Whitehall probe finding she had breached the ministerial code in relation to her purchase of an 800,000 apartment in Hove, East Sussex. But the huge tax row appeared to have been forgotten in Liverpool on Sunday, as Cabinet minister Steve Reed paid tribute to Ms Rayner. He told party members he had taken on his 'dream job' when he succeeded Ms Rayner as Housing Secretary earlier this month. Yet Mr Reed admitted taking over at the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) was 'not under the circumstances' he would have wanted. 'When I picked up the phone to the Prime Minister three weeks ago, he offered me my dream job but not under the circumstances I would have wanted,' he said. 'So can I begin by thanking my good friend Angela Rayner for all she has done for our party and our Government over so many years for workers' rights, for local government, for building council homes. 'Angela, you are a true working-class hero.' Angela Rayner was hailed as a 'working-class hero' at Labour's conference today - just three weeks after she resigned following her failure to pay enough tax The former deputy prime minister was also afforded a standing ovation by Labour members at the party's gathering in Liverpool this afternoon The huge tax row appeared to have been forgotten in Liverpool on Sunday, as Housing Secretary Steve Reed paid tribute to Ms Rayner, his predecessor in the role Mr Reed's tribute to Ms Rayner was met by applause and cheers in the conference hall, while many delegates also rose to their feet. Government ministers Ellie Reeves and Matthew Pennycook were among those seen joining in the standing ovation. Later in his speech, Mr Reed set out Labour's plans for a tranche of new towns in at least 12 locations. 'I will do whatever it takes to get Britain building again, and we won't just build homes, we'll build communities,' he said. 'And not just communities but entire towns.' The Housing Secretary also claimed the Conservatives had 'crushed the dreams of families' who struggled to access housing. 'The Tories spent 14 years blocking the homes that people need,' he added. 'They didn't just hold back the economy, they crushed the dreams of families who couldn't afford a decent home. 'Well conference, no more. We will fight the Tory blockers and give working people the key to a decent home they can afford to live in.' Sir Keir Starmer's attempt to use Labour's time in power to unite the nation appears to be stuttering as Scots lean towards independence. A new poll today put support for breaking up the UK at 53 per cent north of the border. The Norstat survey for The Sunday Times also suggested Labour could be pushed into third place by Reform in next year's Holyrood elections. It found more than a third (34 per cent) of Scots will vote SNP on the constituency ballot, with Reform second with 20 per cent support, and Labour tailing on 17 per cent. On the regional list, 29 per cent are planning to vote SNP, with Reform and Labour tied on 18 per cent. At the same time Scottish Labour tried to distance himself from Sir Keir as he nosedives in the polls. Speaking to BBC Scotland's Sunday Show from the Labour party conference in Liverpool Anas Sarwar said that the Prime Minister would 'play his part in the election campaign in Scotland'. But Mr Sarwar made clear: 'The Scottish election is going to be led by me I'm the candidate for first minister, not Keir Starmer.' A new poll today put support for breaking up the UK at 53 per cent north of the border. The Norstat survey for The Sunday Times also suggested Labour could be pushed into third place by Reform in next year's Holyrood elections. Your browser does not support iframes. Speaking to BBC Scotland's Sunday Show from the Labour party conference in Liverpool Anas Sarwar said: 'The Scottish election is going to be led by me I'm the candidate for first minister, not Keir Starmer.' Asked directly if Sir Keir, whose popularity has slumped since winning last summer's general election, was an asset, the Scottish Labour leader said: 'Of course.' But he continued: 'The best thing the Prime Minister can do is get on with the work and improve people's circumstances across the whole country.' His comments came just days after he had refused to tell journalists if he had full confidence in Sir Keir. Sir Keir said on Sunday that Labour is in the 'fight of our lives' against Reform, and Mr Sarwar also hit out at Mr Farage and his party. The Scottish Labour leader, who was born in Glasgow to Pakistani Muslim parents, declared: 'I think I am more representative of British values than Nigel Farage will ever be.' He claimed that Mr Farage 'does not understand Scotland, doesn't care about Scotland, probably doesn't even know many parts of Scotland'. Mr Sarwar added: 'This is a guy that can only create the noise and is a chancer. 'He can't win an election next year, all he can do is help the SNP stay in power.' He pledged that Labour is 'going to fight the bile and the divisive politics of Reform' but would also 'confront the issues that people legitimately have and therefore are tempted to vote Reform'. Scottish Conservative deputy leader Rachael Hamilton said: 'Anas Sarwar is deluded. 'The public can see as clear as day that Keir Starmer is a dud who has broken countless promises, sent household bills soaring and performed numerous U-turns, yet the Scottish Labour leader claims he's an asset.' News / Africa by Staff Reporter Lagos - Nigerian police said on Wednesday that they raided a home and freed 16 pregnant girls and young women allegedly being forced to have babies to be sold."We carried out a raid on a residence in Owerri following an intelligence report and rescued 16 expectant mothers," Imo State police spokesperson Joy Elomoko told AFP."The girls were between 14 and 19 years old and in different stages of pregnancy."The male owner of the home, who was arrested, had registered it as a non-governmental organisation promoting women's and children's issues, Elomoko added.An unlicensed automatic pump action shotgun was also recovered during the raid.Elomoko said the rescued women and girls told officers that they were each offered 100 000 naira ($632) to sell their babies after delivery.An investigation was also underway over a case of a missing baby from the illegal home.Sold into prostitution"We found out that the suspect could not explain the whereabouts of a baby that was recently delivered in the home," the spokesperson said."We are suspecting that the baby might have been sold for [black magic] rituals," she said, adding that the suspect would be taken to court after police investigation.Nigerian security agents have uncovered a series of alleged baby factories in recent years, notably in the south-eastern part of the country.Last month, six pregnant teenage girls were freed in a raid on an illegal clinic in the oil city of Port Harcourt.Human trafficking is widespread in west Africa, where children are bought from their families to work in plantations, mines and factories or as domestic help.Others are sold into prostitution, and less commonly they are tortured or sacrificed in black magic rituals. Nicotine has quickly grown into the most profitable contraband industry in Australia. Gang syndicates are making more money off black market cigarettes and vapes than what is made off the top five illegal party drugs in the country combined, and the penalties if they are caught are far more lenient. It's estimated more than $10billion in profits was made by criminals from illegal tobacco products in 2024 alone. What's more is the staggering figure is sharply rising year-over-year. A study from FTI Consulting put the percentage of nicotine products Aussies consumed in 2024 that were sourced from the black market at 39.4 per cent. That figure jumped to 50 per cent in the new report released in July this year, which means illegal tobacco sales are equal to the amount of legal tobacco consumed in the country and might even soon overtake it. Compare this with cocaine, meth, heroin, MDMA and cannabis. Twenty-two tonnes of these drugs combined were consumed by Australians in the past year, according to the Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission's most recent wastewater report. The street value of this amounts to an estimated $10.3billion. The result is dominant organised crime figures who control the illicit tobacco market like Kazem Hamad are raking in more money than ever. Illegal vapes and other tobacco products are quickly becoming more profitable than all other illicit drugs combined in Australia Retailers blame the federal government and its tobacco excise for creating an ultra-competitive black market for these kinds of products CEO of the Australian Association of Convenience Stores, Theo Foukkare, said it was the government's fault for the heavy increase of illegal trade. 'The federal government has helped put these dangerous criminals on Australia's rich list by continuing to jack up tobacco excise they're handing them customers and boosting their profits to insane record highs,' he told the Herald Sun. 'Retailers are playing by the rules while the dodgy shop next door is selling tax free, illicit tobacco at a third of the cost and there's bugger all enforcement. 'There's minimal threat of jail time so they keep selling tax free, illicit tobacco and Aussie adults who choose to smoke, keep buying from them.' The mentality this promotes for criminals is 'maximum profit and next to no punishment', Mr Foukkare added. High taxes on cigarettes and a national vape ban have pushed Australian consumers to black market areas such as illegal tobacconists. Speaking to Daily Mail Australia last year, then-candidate for Queensland premier David Crisafulli said the amount of illegal tobacconists outweighed legal vendors in his state. In Victoria, where a wave of tobacco store fire-bombings have taken place, there are more than 1,000 illegal tobacco vendors throughout the state which is more than the number of Coles and Woolworths combined. Gangs are choosing to hone in on illegal tobacco products as the punishment for importing and distributing them is far less significant than those laid against drug trafficking Adding to these factors is the extreme markup criminals place on illegal tobacco which pales in comparison for the bargain prices they acquire it for. A vast majority of black market tobacco is snuck into the country via its sea ports. Less than one per cent of sea cargo is checked before it enters Australia. Even if criminals are caught their punishment for smuggling and distributing illegal tobacco or for excise avoidance is a lighter sentence than for drug trafficking. Violent crime, safety concerns, insurance and security costs are also pushing independent retailers to stop competing with their illegal counterpart. Master Grocers Australia CEO Martin Stirling said retailers are being 'pushed to the brink' because of this. Ritchies CEO Fred Harrison similarly blamed 'government inaction' for the growing problem. 'If we allow the sale of illegal tobacco and vapes to continue and grow, then what is next? I do not know of another industry, where lawlessness and illicit product has been allowed to thrive as the tobacco and vape industry has,' he told the publication. The daughter of the man linked to the horrific deaths of four teenagers who were brutally killed inside a Texas frozen yogurt shop said her father had two very different sides to him. Deborah Brashers, the child of Robert Eugene Brashers, has broken her silence after her dad was identified as the suspect tied to the execution-style killings of the teenagers in December 6, 1991. Eliza Thomas, 17, Amy Ayers, 13, Jennifer Harbison, 17, and Sarah Harbison, 15 were found charred beyond recognition inside the storage room of the I Can't Believe It's Yogurt shop in Austin. On Friday, police announced Robert, who died by suicide in January of 1999, is linked to the unsolved murders 'through a wide range of DNA testing'. The blockbuster news has sparked reaction across the nation, including from Deborah, 34, who was just four-months-old when the murders occurred. After hearing of his involvement in the case, which saw the girls found naked, gagged, tied up, stacked on top of one another, each shot in the back of the head, and at least one of them raped, Deborah said she was devastated. 'It really is hard to figure out that I come from that. But Im my mothers daughter, true and true, and I know whats right and wrong,' she told KVUE. She described her father as an intelligent man who was also very deceptive - similar to the story of Jekyll and Hyde, where a respected doctor was able to separate his good and evil sides. 'My father was very, very, very strange,' she recalled. 'My father was a business man. My father was a con artist.' Deborah Brashers, the daughter of the Yogurt Shop Murders' suspect Robert Eugene Brashers, said her father was very intelligent but also extremely troubled and deceptive Amy Ayers, 13, Eliza Thomas, 17, Jennifer Harbison, 17, and Sarah Harbison, 15 were found charred beyond recognition inside the storage room of the I Can't Believe It's Yogurt shop in Austin, Texas on December 6, 1991 On Friday, police announced Robert, who died by suicide in January of 1999, is linked to the unsolved murders 'through a wide range of DNA testing' The Alabama native said she only began uncovering details surrounding her dad's involvement in the slayings in 2018, which left her with many unanswered questions. 'My mother's not here to ask all these questions. I don't know who I can go to to ask all these questions. I don't know who I can trust to ask all these questions,' Deborah explained. Despite not knowing the answers to her questions, Deborah said she is deeply sorry for the victims and their families who have been hoping for answers all these years. 'I'm sorry for the pain and everything that my father has put everyone through,' she said before making one wish. 'And I wish my father was here today to be able to be punished for his crimes.' Although her father can't face consequences for the heinous crime, Deborah hopes their families will be able to start to heal because of the recent development. Robert died by suicide during a standoff with law enforcement in 1999. He had an extensive criminal history including attempted murder, burglary, impersonating a cop and unlawful possession of a weapon. Investigators managed to link a bullet casing found in a drain inside the yogurt shop to the gun he used to shoot himself, CBS News reported. The teens were found naked, gagged, tied up and stacked on top of one another. They were each shot in the back of the head and at least one of them was raped The charred inside of the yogurt shop is seen following the fire more than three decades ago Sisters Sarah (left) and Jennifer (right) Harbison are seen in an undated picture with their mother The yogurt shop murders stunned Texas capital city and became known as one of the areas most notorious crimes. Austin police investigators and prosecutors had stumbled over the case for years as they waded through thousands of leads, several false confessions and badly damaged evidence from the burned-out crime scene. In November 1986, Brashers was convicted of attempted second degree murder stemming from a 1985 incident in Saint Lucie County, Florida. About two years later, Brashers was arrested in Paragould, Arkansas, for attempting to break into 'a residence of a single female.' On January, 13, 1999, Brashers killed himself in Kennett, Missouri, during a four-hour standoff with police. Austin law enforcement had looked at more than 1,200 possible suspects over the last 34 years and secured dozens of confessions. Authorities originally centered their investigation around four teenage boys: Robert Springsteen, Michael Scott, Maurice Pierce (right) and Forrest Welborn (left) Springsteen (left) and Scott (right) confessed to the murders while in custody. However, the pair's convictions were ultimately dismissed by the Texas Court of Appeals on constitutional grounds and they were freed in October 2009 The case remains an open and ongoing investigation, Austin police said and are set to host a press conference on Monday outlining the latest breakthrough. Their announcement happened about one month after the release of The Yogurt Shop Murders, an HBO documentary series focusing on the killings. Two of the girls - Jennifer Harbison and Thomas - worked at the Austin yogurt shop, while the other two had stopped by to catch a ride to a slumber party after the store's closing at 11pm. Some of them were sexually assaulted before being shot in the back of their heads. The shop was then set on fire, which destroyed much of the evidence and soot-covered fingerprints. Authorities originally centered their investigation around four teenage boys: Robert Springsteen, Michael Scott, Maurice Pierce and Forrest Welborn. Separately, two Mexican nationals, Porfirio Villa Saavedra and Alberto Jimenez Cortez, were also arrested in connection but were later ruled out as suspects Springsteen and Scott confessed to the murders while in custody. Springsteen was tried, convicted and sentenced to death in 2001. Scott was also sentenced to life in prison after being convicted in 2002. However, the pair's convictions were ultimately dismissed by the Texas Court of Appeals on constitutional grounds. The two were freed in October 2009. Separately, two Mexican nationals were also arrested in connection but were later ruled out as suspects. Mexican authorities took Porfirio Villa Saavedra and Alberto Jimenez Cortez into custody in October 1992. Saavedra apparently matched the description of a man who was seen in a vehicle outside the yogurt shop on the night of the murders. The Mexican attorney general's office claimed the men confessed to the killings. However, Saavedra - a member of the Mierdas Punks motorcycle gang - recanted two days later and claimed that Mexican police had coerced him into confessing. Daily Mail has reached out to Deborah Brashers for further comment. Sarah Ferguson will 'play the victim' and has 'no acceptance of what she's done', a royal biographer has claimed after the Duchess of York was plunged into a fresh scandal involving her ties to paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein. The ex-wife of Prince Andrew has survived a series of scandals involving debts and deceit, but it is her relationship with Epstein that has most recently led to calls for her to finally be banished by the Royal Family. In recent years, Fergie had made a return to the royal fold after bouncing back from several embarrassments over the years - including being photographed having her toes sucked by US financial adviser Johnny Bryant as well as being caught in a sting offering access to her ex-husband for an alleged 500,000. But last week, the Mail on Sunday exposed how she wrote to Epstein to apologise for publicly disowning the vile billionaire. Several charities quickly dropped the Duchess after it was laid bare how she cynically lied when she pledged to cut ties with Epstein. Just weeks after publicly disowning him, she then wrote him a gushing private message calling him a 'steadfast, generous and supreme friend' and admitting she only distanced herself from him to save her own reputation. The Duchess 'humbly apologised' to the convicted sex offender for letting him down, and said she had been told to speak out if she wanted to save her career as a children's author. She sent the grovelling message 'from the truth of my heart', less than two months after telling journalists: 'I will never have anything to do with [Epstein] again.' Sarah Ferguson will 'play the victim' and has 'no acceptance of what she's done', a royal biographer has claimed. Pictured: Fergie and Prince Andrew at the Duchess of Kent's funeral on September 16 Historian and author Andrew Lownie, who has recently written Entitled: The Rise and Fall of the House of York, said Fergie will act as 'the victim'. He told the Express: 'I'm afraid, having studied her for so long, I don't have a great deal of sympathy for her... She will be pretending, in the way she pretended in that letter to Epstein, that she was the victim.' The royal biographer added: 'She has no self-awareness. She has no acceptance of what she's done, the same problem as Andrew.' Mr Lownie believes that Fergie will bounce back as she has often managed over the years and that she will be be working on a strategy 'huddled with her PR people'. The author revealed he did not believe she would return to public life in 2010 when she was caught offering to sell access to Andrew by a News of the World reporter posing as a businessman. It comes after sources claimed Fergie and Andrew have been told they are not welcome at the Royal Family's Christmas celebrations following the latest fallout. It's understood King Charles, 76, wants to keep the Duke and Duchess of York, both 65, at arm's length. Andrew and his ex-wife, who live together at Royal Lodge in Windsor despite divorcing in 1996, have also been told to make themselves 'invisible' at future royal gatherings, insiders claim. It comes after Charles asked the Duchess of York to help convince Andrew to 'do the decent thing' and avoid the Royal Family's Christmas gathering last year after it emerged the Duke had become close with alleged Chinese spy Yang Tengbo. The Yorks spent last Christmas together at Royal Lodge instead, but they were not joined by their daughters, Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie. A source close to the King told The Sunday Times: 'You can't sack someone from being your brother. 'But this year, if the duke and duchess were both to be as honourable [as last year], it would be very much for the best and the family would not be disappointed, not least to avoid the King having to make any more difficult decisions.' The Duchess's friends say she was 'devastated for any embarrassment' caused by the latest Epstein scandal and 'will explain herself to the wider Royal Family in due course'. Sources close to the King say the monarch would prefer if Andrew and Fergie keep out of sight when appearing at family events by arriving and leaving through discreet entrances where possible. Earlier this month, the Yorks very much made their presence known at the Duchess of Kent's funeral at Westminster Cathedral. After the emotional service, Andrew was seen howling with laughter and trying to speak to Prince William, who appeared to ignore his disgraced uncle. The Prince of Wales is understood to consider his uncle a 'risk' and 'threat' to the monarch and is said to fully support his father's stance. Charles and William are thought to have spoken about the latest scandal during their weekend together in Scotland. Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson with Princess Beatrice and Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi during the Royal Family's Christmas walk in 2023 A source said the King is 'not of the mind to banish someone', but would hope the Yorks can 'find a more discreet way of attending these events'. 'In the Duke of York's case, he seems to relish the prospect of not being low-key about it,' they added. Buckingham Palace declined to comment. Despite a series of scandals, Fergie was invited to join the Royal Family's Christmas gatherings in 2022 and 2023, her first invitations for three decades. She also joined the family's traditional walk from Sandringham house to church alongside Andrew, Beatrice and Eugenie in 2023. President Donald Trump is sending troops into Portland, Oregon 'effective immediately' as residents mock his efforts to rid the 'war ravaged' city of 'domestic terrorists' with a federal takeover. On Sunday, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth issued a memorandum ordering 200 members of the Oregon National Guard into federal service. Hegseth said the troops would perform 'federal functions for 60 days, including protecting federal property ''where protests are occurring or likely to occur''.' The deployment is the latest in the US president's campaign to improve crime rates, targeting Democrat-led cities including Washington DC and Los Angeles. But residents have mocked the president, insisting there is no excessive crime and sharing images of Portland looking sunny and peaceful while sarcastically describing it as 'war ravaged.' One local @cheryl_v_w posted a photograph of the therapy llamas stationed at Portland International Airport where the troops will be landing. 'Imagine the look on the faces of the troops landing in Portland when they're being greeted by the therapy llamas at the airport,' she wrote. 'Yes, that's a real thing we have here.' The post showed two llamas wearing light blue deely boppers and matching saddles at the airport. Portland residents have mercilessly mocked Donald Trump for saying he will send National Guard troops to the city to handle 'domestic terrorists'. One local posted a photograph of the therapy llamas stationed at Portland International Airport where the troops will be landing Pictured: Protesters stand outside the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement building on September 27, 2025 in Portland, Oregon, where Donald Trump is sending troops Another resident posted an image of a street lined with trees cloaked in rainbow-colored crochets with the caption: 'Makers unite. We knit at dawn. Portland prepares for war.' 'Portland is a beautiful, safe, fun, and clean city. And anyone who says otherwise hasn't visited or enjoyed our food trucks,' another local wrote alongside a photograph of himself in a public park. Several government, police and business leaders have also said soldiers are not needed in Oregon and Trump is presenting a patently false picture of the city. The formal notice was sent to Governor Tina Kotek 9.30am Sunday, warning the troops must 'protect U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and other U.S. Government personnel who are performing Federal functions.' The state has since filed a lawsuit in an effort to block the move. 'The facts cannot justify this overreach,' the 41-page lawsuit states. 'Defendants' heavy-handed deployment of troops threatens to escalate tensions and stokes new unrest.' Hegseth's order comes just one day after Trump announced on Truth Social that he was directing 'Secretary of War, Pete Hegseth, to provide all necessary Troops to protect War ravaged Portland, and any of our ICE Facilities under siege from attack by Antifa, and other domestic terrorists.' Pictured: A protester holds a sign outside the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement building on September 27, 2025 in Portland, Oregon, where Trump is sending troops Another resident posted an image of a street lined with trees cloaked in rainbow-colored crochets with the caption: 'Makers unite. We knit at dawn. Portland prepares for war' Kotek responded, saying that Trump was abusing his authority by sending troops into a city which was doing 'just fine' on its own. Portland Mayor Keith Wilson on Saturday said there was no lawlessness or violence in his city. Wilson said during a news conference the number of necessary troops is 'zero' in Portland, 'and any other American city'. 'This is an American city,' Wilson said. 'We do not need any intervention. This is not a military target.' Wilson claimed that video footage showing violence in the city was from five years ago. He said the footage had been 'recycled'. Wilson told the news conference: 'If President Trump came to Portland today, what he would find is people riding their bikes, playing sports, enjoying the sunshine, buying groceries or produce from a farmers market. Portland Mayor Keith Wilson said there was no lawlessness or violence in his city at a news conference on Saturday (seen above) A person stands near a sign near a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility in Portland on Saturday A person holds a flag that reads 'Resist' near a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility on Saturday 'Weve had hard conversations, and weve done important work in the years since that footage was taken, we reformed our public safety system. 'Weve refocused our community and on our economy, and weve redoubled our efforts to help our most vulnerable.' Trump said the decision was necessary to protect U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement facilities, which he alleged are 'under siege from attack by Antifa, and other domestic terrorists'. 'I am directing Secretary of War, Pete Hegseth, to provide all necessary Troops to protect War ravaged Portland, and any of our ICE Facilities under siege from attack by Antifa, and other domestic terrorists,' Trump wrote. Trump also said he is authorizing 'full force, if necessary', but did not further elaborate. There have been numerous protests at the ICE building in South Portland over the last several months. People frustrated with Trump's mass deportation policies began protesting in June, with one of the demonstrations morphing into a riot, according to police. Heavily armed law enforcement officers hit protestors with tear gas and rubber bullets. There have been more protests in July and this month at the same facility, The Oregonian reported. Pictured: Trump's official declaration Saturday on Truth Social, his social media platform President Donald Trump has announced he will be sending National Guard troops to Portland, Oregon, a Democratic-run city once known for its lax-on-crime policies The sidewalk by the ICE facility was mostly emptied out of protesters around 8pm on Saturday The White House did not immediately respond to the Daily Mail's request for comment on the size and scope of the upcoming military deployment in Portland. There is also no further information on when troops are scheduled to arrive. Portland is the latest city Trump has sent troops to, with Los Angeles and Washington, D.C. getting boots on the ground over the summer. In June, Trump deployed the National Guard and the Marines to quell rowdy protests in Los Angeles, again over his administration's immigration policies. In August, he federalized Washington D.C.'s local police force while also activating the National Guard, claiming that the nation's capital had been 'overtaken by violent gangs and bloodthirsty criminals, roving mobs of wild youth, drugged-out maniacs and homeless people'. Following these actions, Trump has openly mused about sending troops to other cities, including New York City and Chicago. After Trump said earlier in September that he would be sending soldiers to Memphis, the city with the highest crime rate in the United States, Tennessee Governor Bill Lee confirmed Friday that federal agents are scheduled to arrive this coming Monday. Officers from 13 federal agencies will join roughly 150 National Guard troops and state police troopers to support local law enforcement, Lee added. Portland, though not nearly as crime-ridden as Memphis, has had its fair share of problems over the last several years. Trump cited far-left individuals protesting and rioting at an ICE facility in the city as the main reason he is sending the military there (Pictured: Police spray tear gas and shoot rubber bullets at protestors blocking the ICE facility on June 18) Pictured: Customs and Border Protection agents detain a man protesting outside the ICE building in Portland on June 14 The downtown area of Portland suffered a decline in the last few years, with tent encampments and drug use running rampant. File photo from January 2024 The city is known for its homeless problem, with many encampments crowding the formerly desirable downtown area. Drug use was rampant in these encampments, something exacerbated by Oregon's attempt to decriminalize formerly illicit substances. The new law reduced possession of heroin, fentanyl and meth to the level of a parking ticket. Fatal opioid overdoses surged, from 280 in 2019, to 628 in just the first six months of 2023 as homeless encampments and open-air drug markets spread throughout the city. After intense pressure, state lawmakers reversed the decriminalization with a law that went into effect on September 1, 2024. Another factor in Portland's troubles in recent years, according to critics, was the election of Multnomah County District Attorney Mike Schmidt in May 2020. Schmidt was sworn in just before the death of George Floyd and once costly racial justice riots began to spread across the country, including to Portland, he took a soft approach. He vowed not to prosecute rioters unless there was evidence of 'deliberate' property damage, theft, or threat of force. Of 550 cases referred by police, just 47 went to trial. More than 2,600 businesses had fled the city center by September 2022 as shoppers avoided downtown areas and retail theft began to spiral. However, the new district attorney for the county, Nathan Vasquez, has been focused on reducing crime, an effort he believes will help the city's economy can recover. Furious residents have accused Sir Keir Starmer of destroying historical landscapes and dropping 'a nuclear bomb' on them in pursuit of his new town dream. The Prime Minister announced plans for 12 new towns across the UK ahead of a tense party conference as Reform continue to surge in the opinion polls. The project could deliver up to 300,000 new homes as Sir Keir attempts to finally bring some good news to struggling families. Among 12 sites which have been identified as areas for new towns, three have been described as the most promising. The party is due to start work in Tempsford in Bedfordshire, Leeds South Bank, and Crews Hill in Greater London before the next general election. But locals in Tempsford, which is home to 600 people and 300 houses, have criticised the proposals, claiming they were not informed about the plans. David Sutton, chairman of the parish council, said residents have no idea what to expect or prepare for. He said: 'The biggest problem we've got at the moment is that even today, as an announcement's being made, we've been given no idea whatsoever of the scale of what we're being asked to live amongst.' Sir Keir Starmer has announced plans for 12 new towns across the UK which could lead to up to 300,000 houses and residents of affected areas have reacted angrily Earlier this year the Government confirmed plans to build a new train station at Tempsford to provide connections between the East Coast Main Line and East West Rail. 'Nobody's come to talk to us at all,' Mr Sutton, 52, said. 'Nobody's given us any indication whether it's the rumoured 10,000 houses from before, 20,000, 40,000 was heard a couple of years ago, and last year 125,000, so what is it?' He said some residents are 'a lot more anti' the prospect of major building than he is, adding that he is 'up for some sustainable development' in the village which has 'no phone signal, no shop, no gas, no schools, no nothing'. 'There's a reason there's no other houses here at the moment, because we haven't got anything,' Mr Sutton said. 'We've got horrific flooding problems where every single year for the last 20 years people in our village have had sewage in their front rooms at Christmas. 'We need some help before we need to be the ones helping everybody else out with somewhere to live.' Mr Sutton, who is also the landlord of the village's pub, said The Wheatsheaf is 'the only business in the whole village that's open every day of the week'. Among the steps Labour plans to take to speed up housing development are a 'new towns unit', aimed at pumping both private and public cash into transport links, GP surgeries, schools and open green spaces in its new settlements. The chairman of the parish council in Tempsford, which is home to 600 people and 300 houses, said residents have no idea what to expect or prepare for Mr Sutton said: 'Of course (the Government) will say that but will they? 'If they're not even talking to us at all, how can we be sure that when they're promising they're going to build stuff, how do we know they even know what we need?' He also told The Telegraph: 'The village does need a little more to succeed, but without just coming along and firing a nuke into the village and turning it into a city.' The parish councillor said the green spaces that could be built upon, including Tempsford's historic airfield, are important to residents. Adam Hart, whose great-grandfather flew from the secret wartime base RAF Tempsford, said losing the airfield would amount to 'losing a unique piece of British history'. The historian and author, 25, who lives in west London, said: 'Not only would it be a huge shame to lose what's left of RAF Tempsford, it would also deprive my generation of the chance to learn about this incredible piece of history and the bravery of the men and women who served at Tempsford. 'Disguised as a working farm, Tempsford was the airfield from which many of Britain's bravest spies departed for their secret missions in Nazi-occupied Europe. 'Having visited Tempsford and researched the airfield, it seems to have taken its secrecy so seriously that still today no one seems to know about it. The village of Tempsford in Bedfordshire where there are plans to build new homes increasing the population to 350,000 'By building over the old runways and demolishing what's left of the buildings, future generations will not have the chance to visit and learn and be less inclined to learn about something that no longer exists. 'Losing RAF Tempsford is not just losing a unique piece of British history, I think it will also contribute to future generations increasingly not engaging with the Second World War, which in my opinion should be avoided at all costs, particularly with a war raging in Europe as we speak. 'And I say all this as a young person paying extortionate rent who would benefit from building more houses.' The Prime Minister told the Sunday Times the new towns were the 'physical embodiment of national renewal'. He added: 'It speaks particularly to those people under the age of 40 who have been locked out of the dream of home ownership. 'That means that people haven't got their base camp; that security for them and their family, which speaks to a wider piece, which is this sort of disenchantment with politics: the sense that politics can't deliver.' Housing Secretary Steve Reed is set to announce the plans in a speech on the opening day of the Labour party conference on Sunday. Each town will have at least 10,000 homes with at least 40 per cent affordable housing and half for social rent. On Friday a new megapoll showed Nigel Farage's Reform Party would make the biggest surge in political history if an election was held now In total, 12 sites across Britain have been earmarked for the development of new towns. Among the dozen locations are sites in Cheshire, Manchester, Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, Plymouth and London. It could collectively result in 300,000 houses being built across England. In its manifesto, Labour pledged to begin work on 1.5 million new homes over the course of the Parliament, to expand homeownership to more Britons. In his speech, BBC News said the housing secretary will echo Donald Trump by pledging to 'build baby build', while 'taking lessons from the post-war Labour government housing boom'. Clement Attlee's government in 1945 initiated the biggest increase in housebuilding in the country's history. The announcement comes amid a crisis for Labour as Reform threatens a landslide in the next election. On Friday a new megapoll showed Nigel Farage's party would make the biggest surge in political history if an election was held now. Housing secretary Steve Reed is set to announce the plans at the Labour Party conference on Sunday Although the party would be slightly short of an overall majority with 311 MPs, that would almost certainly see Mr Farage become PM. Labour would lose more than 250 seats on its current tally - and the Tories would slump into fourth behind the Lib Dems, with just 45 MPs. Labour's conference in Liverpool begins on Sunday and Sir Keir said the battle against Reform UK and its 'toxic' politics were 'the fight of our times'. The Prime Minister said: 'I think we can pull this round.' But in a plea for party unity, after speculation Greater Manchester mayor Andy Burnham could seek a return to Westminster to oust him, Sir Keir added: 'It is the fight of our times and we've all got to be in it together. 'We don't have time for introspection, we don't have time for navel-gazing.' The Prime Minister hopes to use his party conference to unveil a series of eye-catching policies, including promises for the construction of new towns, with the aim of turning the tide for both Labour and his premiership. 'You'll always get a bit of that at a Labour Party conference, but that is not going to solve the problems that face this country.' Plans for Heyford Park in Oxfordshire, one of Britain's proposed new towns, is set to be focused on net zero initiatives Work on 12 new towns will be taken forward, Housing Secretary Steve Reed is to announce, as recommended by a report from the Government's New Towns Taskforce, published on Sunday morning. Proposals for another of the new towns in Heyford Park near Bicester in Oxfordshire have been revealed. The once proud site of the RAF Upper Heyford will be turned into an ultra-woke, net zero utopia. The plans, unveiled by developer Dorchester Living, include 13,000 new homes four new primary schools, a secondary school and community centres. Transport in the town is focused on cyclists and pedestrians in the 'walkable neighbourhood', with very few roads displayed in the mock-up images. Some 5,000 new jobs will mostly be available for those in the green energy sector, focusing on 'Cleantech and Low Carbon Industries' alongside 'knowledge based sectors'. It plans to make Heyford Park the UK's first energy surplus town with designs showing the area packed with wind turbines and solar panels. The historic airfield will also become a 'green corridor' while other areas of the town will be given back to nature as part of rewilding efforts. The historic RAF Upper Heyford airfield will be turned into a 'green corridor' as part of the plans Paul Silver, CEO of Dorchester Living, said: 'Being named one of the Governments "New Towns" is a transformative moment for Heyford Park and a major endorsement of everything we at Dorchester Living have built here so far. 'Over the past decade we have worked closely with partners and the local community to regenerate the former RAF Upper Heyford into a thriving neighbourhood, preserving its heritage whilst delivering new homes, schools, green spaces and jobs all with the underlying objective of becoming the UKs first energy surplus town. 'This designation gives us the platform to accelerate our work, to deliver a fully integrated and sustainable community, future proofed with transport and energy systems, strong local services and opportunities for people to live, work and thrive. 'As a "New Town" we can solidify our plans to create a place where young families can put down roots, where businesses can grow and future generations can enjoy a high quality of life, now with the Governments backing.' Toddler Aryatara Shakya has been appointed Nepal's new Living Goddess Kumari following an ancient selection process which included a traditional Trial of Bravery. The two-and-a-half year old girl was seen in striking images wearing thick black eyeliner and a red dress, as per Royal Kumari tradition at her enthronement ceremony in Kathmandu on Sunday. Shakya is set to be formally installed as the Royal Kumari at the historic Ghar Kumari House on Tuesday after taking over the position from Trishna Shakya, eight. Trishna had served as Kumari until she reached puberty, a traditional threshold that a marks the end of a Kumari's tenure. The Kumari is considered a living embodiment of the Hindu goddess Taleju, and her selection follows a rigorous process based on ancient tantric criteria and astrological assessments. Largely unknown to the outside world, Nepal's centuries-old tradition of the child deity, the Kumari Devi, is believed to bring luck and fortune to those who see her. The Kumari is the only living goddess worshipped by both Hindus and Buddhists and translates to 'virgin'. The Royal Kuamari must be a pre-pubescent girl as they are seen as impure when they begin to menstruate. Aryatara Shakya has been appointed Nepal's new Living Goddess Kumari following her enthronement ceremony in Kathmandu on Sunday The two-and-a-half year old girl was seen in striking images wearing thick black eyeliner and a red dress, as per Royal Kumari tradition The Kumari is considered a living embodiment of the Hindu goddess Taleju, and her selection follows a rigorous process based on ancient tantric criteria and astrological assessments Selecting a Kumari goddess is a long-winded process. Five senior Buddhist Bajracharya, Chief Royal Priest, Taleju, and a royal astrologer oversees the selection ritual of the Kumari. Some characteristics searched in children are good health, no evidence of scars and marks on the body, uncut and blemished body skin, pre-menstrual and no loss of teeth. Once a girl passes through these basic requirements, she is then further examined for 32 strict body perfections, including having the body of a Banyan tree, eyelashes like a cow, the neck of a conch shell, the chest of a lion, a voice as soft and clear as that of a duck, the same horoscope as the King, signs of serenity and fearlessness, straight black hair and dark eyes, delicate and soft hands and feet, thighs like those of a deer, and a small and moist tongue. The child will also undergo a tests of courage where she is shown several sacrificed buffalos and masked men dancing in the blood. If she shows any sign of fear, she is not deemed worthy of becoming the incarnation of Goddess Taleju. After being selected as Kumari, she will leave her parent's home until another living goddess takes her place, as she is transferred to the Kumari Ghar - an old palace building without any modern facilities. The parents are not allowed to visit their daughter and only see their child when the Kumari ventures to special events and places, around 13 times a year. Until recently, the Kumaris did not have access to education and were not allowed to use the internet facilities inside the Kumari Ghar. They spend their days inside a four-wall room poorly lighted with candles and lamps. Following discussion and pressure from human rights and children rights activists in Nepal on the Kumari system, the centuries-old rules and strict governing of Kumaris of Kathmandu have somewhat changed. Kumaris were not given proper education and knowledge about society and the general outside world. This made the transition from a living goddess, back to a teenage girl after dethroning, much more difficut. Nowadays, Royal Kumari are provided with a personal tutor and education. There is even internet service, books, and magazines. The Kumari also now attend national exams inside the palace under supervision. Shakya is set to be formally installed as the Royal Kumari at the historic Ghar Kumari House on Tuesday after taking over the position from Trishna Shakya Trishna had served as Kumari until she reached puberty, a traditional threshold that a marks the end of a Kumari's tenure But even though the role appears to be relaxing in that regard, the Kumari will only be able to leave her palace for ceremonial purposes. Her family will rarely be able to visit her and she must always wear red clothes, have her hair in a topknot and have the fire eye painted on her forehead. The Kumari's walk in the Durbar Square before she is chosen is the last time her feet will touch the ground until the Goddess Taleju departs from her body. She is carried when visiting outside the palace in her golden palanquin. The Prime Minister and President re even known to touch the red, painted feed of the young Kumai as ask her for he blessings. Even a Kumaris glimpse is believed to bring good fortune. Many people visit the courtyard in front of the Kumaris window to catch a glance of the living goddess. The more fortunate and better-connected people visit the Kumari in her bedroom, where she sits upon a gilded iron throne. It is believed that the Kumari has special powers over illness. Bureaucrats and high ranked government officials have also visited the Kumari Goddess. During the visit, the actions of the living goddess are closely watched because her actions are interpreted as a prediction of the visitors life. Some actions and its meaning of Kumari Goddess are: Crying or loud laughter - serious illness or death, rubbing eyes - imminent death, trembling - imprisonment, and picking at food offerings - financial losses. Aaryatara's appointment continues the centuries-old tradition unique to Nepal, and plays an important symbolic role in the nation's cultural and religious life. She leaves behind her parents and a twin younger brother to embark on the journey of living Goddess. A Taliban commanders nephew granted refugee status in Britain can be joined by seven family members currently living in Turkey, an immigration judge has ruled. None of them speak English, and a tribunal accepted they would place 'a significant burden upon the public purse' if they were allowed to move to the UK. But the relatives - the man's parents, three sisters, a niece and nephew - have 'no options' and are unable to return to Afghanistan, a judgement said. It is the latest controversial ruling by Britain's asylum courts and comes as ministers promise to restrict the rights of refugees to be joined by relatives. The nephew, referred to only as 'S' in the ruling, arrived in Britain in 2016. He claimed to be 15 years old but was later age-assessed as 18. His uncle was said to be a Taliban commander who had been pressuring his father to allow 'S' to 'join the jihad'. 'S' was sent to Kabul by his father to get away from his uncle. But 'S' was stabbed by two cousins because of the family dispute and he eventually fled Afghanistan, the tribunal heard. An Afghan man granted asylum in the UK after fleeing his Taliban commander uncle who wanted him to 'join the jihad' can be joined by seven relatives, a judge has ruled (file picture) In 2018 an immigration judge allowed him indefinite leave to remain in the UK after a psychotherapist said he had post-traumatic stress. Meanwhile 'Ss' parents and sisters had all fled through Iran to Turkey where they feared being arrested and sent back to Afghanistan. In 2023 his relatives applied to enter the UK citing the 'right to private and family life' under Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights, but were refused. However Upper Tribunal judge Gaenor Bruce has now decided the refusal of entry clearance to Britain was 'unjustifiably harsh' and allowed the appeals on human rights grounds. A lawyer for the family had argued that the sisters were all being threatened with forced marriage if they had stayed in Afghanistan, while 'S's' father 'faced retribution from his brother'. One sister had married an Afghan man in Turkey - father to her two children - but they split up after he beat her with an iron bar, and was later deported. She and another sister have been working illegally in Turkey washing dishes to support their housebound parents - both of whom are diabetic, with the father suffering undiagnosed seizures. An expert claimed 'S' was constantly 're-triggered' by his worry for his family, although hed been able to visit Turkey twice to see them. The refugee's relatives are not safe in Turkey due to the risk of 'violent summary returns' to Afghanistan, 'torture' and 'ill-treatment', Upper Tribunal judge Gaenor Bruce concluded (file picture) He wanted to train as an electrician but was unable to do so due to his mental distress. In addition the tribunal was told that Afghans in Turkey are not recognised as refugees and are at risk of 'violent summary returns', 'torture' and 'ill-treatment'. Backing their appeal, the judge said: 'The relationship between Ss mental health and his contact with his family is at the heart of this claim. 'Only by being reunited with them will he be able to recover and live a meaningful existence.' In addition, it was unlikely that as asylum-seekers 'the family would be able to look to any other European country to facilitate family reunion', she added. The judge praised the relatives' case as being 'conspicuously well-prepared' and said 'S's' medical expert had been 'impressive'. She accepted that allowing the family members to settle in the UK 'would place a significant burden upon the public purse'. 'S is presently unable to work and is reliant on public funds. 'It is not only likely, but inevitable, that this too will be the position of his family members once they arrive.' But she concluded that was outweighed by 'S's' desire to be reunited with his relatives and the 'precarious' situation of the other family members. Earlier this month the Government announced it was temporarily suspending new applications for a scheme allowing refugees to bring their family members to the UK in a bid to address concerns over Channel migrants. The Home Office is understood to be seeking permission to lodge an appeal against the judgement. A spokesman said: 'We have recently moved to suspend the refugee family reunion route, acknowledging the pressures it is putting on local authorities and public services.' Police have launched a fresh appeal to find a sailor who vanished in his boat while off the Cornish coast, as fears for his safety grow. Guy Nelson, 57, from Leamington Spa, Warwickshire, was last known to be sailing near Drake's Island on September 8 - around three weeks ago. The 6.5-acre land mass, which sits in the stretch of water known as Plymouth Sound, around 500m off the coast of Plymouth, Devon, is privately owned and uninhabited. The seaman was last seen on CCTV just three days earlier, on September 5, in the quiet inland village of St Dominic in nearby Cornwall. It is thought he had set off on a tour of the Cornish and Devon coasts in his boat, called Swallow, from Plymouth. But the boater has no other known links to the area, with his home more than 200 miles away from this launching point. Devon and Cornwall Police has now released another image of him, taken in St Dominic on September 5, in a renewed bid to bring the disappeared sailor home. He is seen in this picture wearing sunglasses, a blue and white checked shirt, black shorts and navy crocs. Guy Nelson, 57, from Leamington Spa, Warwickshire, was last known to be sailing near Drake's Island on September 8 - and Devon and Cornwall Police has now released another image (pictured) of him in a renewed bid to bring the disappeared sailor home It is thought he had set off on a tour of the Cornish and Devon coasts in his boat, called Swallow (pictured), from Plymouth Mr Nelson has been described by officers as a white male who is 5ft 10ins tall and of medium build, with short curly brown hair and brown eyes. He often wears glasses, a black T-shirt and jeans. It comes after the force distributed another image of the seaman which shows him with a dark beard and moustache. A police spokesperson said: 'We continue to be concerned for the welfare of 57-year-old Guy Nelson and are issuing a more recent picture of him. 'Guy, from Leamington Spa, was last known to be in or around the Drake's Island area of Plymouth on Monday, September 8. 'Guy had been sailing around Cornwall and Devon on his boat named Swallow and it is believed it was Guy's intention to sail from Plymouth along the coast, but he has not been heard from since. 'He had previously been in St Dominic in Cornwall, where the new picture was taken on Friday, September 5. 'Guy has no known links to Devon and Cornwall other than sailing in the area.' It comes after the force distributed another image (pictured) of the seaman which shows him with a dark beard and moustache Drake's Island was closed to the public for more than 30 years before it was bought in 2019 by former Royal Navy engineer and local businessman Morgan Phillips. The island - a scheduled monument, which he bought for 6million - was reopened to general visitors in early 2020, with tours of it still available now. The land mass has previously served, in the Tudor era, as a strategic defensive point and religious refuge for the politically persecuted. It was also formerly the site of a chapel, marine observatory, adventure centre and even a state prison. The island - named for Sir Francis Drake, who set sail from the site in 1577 to travel the world - was put up for sale in July last year. St Dominic, meanwhile, which sits to the east of Cornwall, fewer than 15 miles from Plymouth, is made up of several small settlements and home to only around 900 people. Officers are asking anyone who has seen Guy or knows or his whereabouts to call 999, quoting log 852. A bruising war of words over Prince Harry's recent meeting with King Charles is making it increasingly difficult for the pair to ever reconcile, it was warned tonight. Father and son's 54-minute tea at Clarence House on the prince's recent trip to UK, the first time the pair have met for 19 months, has sparked a flurry of 'briefings' from sources apparently close to the Sussexes. This prompted one well-placed royal source to tell the Mail reprovingly tonight: 'The reality is that senior aides have been working privately to improve what is an important family relationship. 'Such public pronouncements only serve to make that endeavour more difficult.' Buckingham Palace is understood to be increasingly 'bemused' - and, clearly, not a little irritated - by the latest, increasingly wild, conspiracy claims. The Mail on Sunday reported at the weekend that Prince Harry has 'lambasted the men in grey suits' - the nickname his late mother, Diana, Princess of Wales gave to the courtiers she so hated - of 'trying to sabotage his reconciliation with the King'. In an extraordinary intervention, it said the Duke of Sussex was 'infuriated' at what he sees as a concerted attempt by officials to 'torpedo his efforts to strike a rapprochement with his father by giving hostile briefings to newspapers'. 'The relationship between the Duke and His Majesty The King is a matter for the two of them and the two of them only,' a source said. Prince Harry with the then Prince Charles at the World Premiere of Netflix's Our Planet at the Natural History Museum, in Kensington, in 2019 'The men in grey suits should stay out of it.' This has come as something of a surprise to those involved in arranging the original meeting between father and son amid huge secrecy, complex family relations and a complete media blackout. Not a word was said publicly in advance of the event and only the briefest statement issued afterwards. While no further meetings have been scheduled in between the two, neither have they been ruled out, the Mail understands. However it is fair to say, given the repeated attacks Harry has made both on his closest family and the institution of the monarchy in recent years, that there is huge wariness both in palace corridors and amongst senior family members. Royal aides were certainly watching closely to see if anything pertaining to the meeting - at which only father and son are believed to have been present - leaked out. Just two weeks later the first briefing was apparently made, in which 'Team Harry' crowed it signalled a 'thawing of their relationship' and the 'acceptance' of his family 'back into the royal fold'. The same sources also suggested it could even be the start of a new working model for the ex-royal. They revealed Harry now apparently plans to return to Britain 'four or five times year' for 'public events', both for his own charitable initiatives - and, potentially, in support of the Royal Family. And they added that high level talks were underway to gradually bring King Charles and his estranged son together in a public show of unity for the first time in at least six years. However the report also waspishly referred to recent claims of growing tensions between the King and Prince William over his approach to royal duties, suggesting that having Harry around might help to 'lighten the load'. Prince Harry is seen leaving Clarence House after meeting his father King Charles III on September 10 This was a step too far for many in royal circles, with an insider telling the Mail at the time: 'Whoever is behind them seems to have mistaken a brief tea and a slice of cake for the Treaty of Versailles.' The briefings escalated again in recent days, with sources complaining to The Sun newspaper that Harry's meeting with his father had been 'distinctly formal' and claiming he had later described it as 'very official, like an official visit'. It also cited insiders suggesting the 'awkward exchange' was carried out in a similar style to that of dignitaries visiting royal residences, seen as an implicit criticism of the much-hyped meeting. Intriguingly, the newspaper's sources were also well-placed enough to know that Harry personally gave his father a framed photograph as a gift, and received a present for his 41st birthday in return. However a spokesman for the prince has since denied the picture was one of himself and wife Meghan with their children, leading many to conclude it was of the King's grandchildren, Prince Archie, six, and four-year-old Princess Lilibet, whom he has barely seen since they were born. The whole debacle has led to concern that 'Team Harry' is wildly over-spinning a loving gesture by a father, who has been dealing with significant ill-health, to his son to meet, and in doing so is eroding any possibility of developing trust between those involved. Meanwhile others have said they find Harry's treatment particularly of the late Queen and her husband, Prince Philip, in the latter years of their lives as 'unforgivable'. Buckingham Palace has declined to comment, while Harry's spokesman said at the weekend: 'Recent reporting of the Duke's view of the tone of the meeting is categorically false. The quotes attributed to him are pure invention fed, one can only assume, by sources intent on sabotaging any reconciliation between father and son.' A pensioner has died after suffering a suspected medical episode before crashing his car into a wall. Police rushed to Guide Lane in Audenshaw, Tameside, Greater Manchester, at around noon today after receiving reports of a smash on the street. Officers discovered a man, in his 80s, critically injured before he tragically died on his way to hospital for urgent treatment. They believe the pensioner, who was behind the wheel of a white Kia Rio, had suffered a medical problem while driving. It is understood he then veered off course and struck the wall before succumbing to his injuries. Greater Manchester Police quickly cordoned the area off this afternoon, with police tape and officers at the scene. The force's serious collision investigation unit are now appealing for help following the fatal crash. Greater Manchester Police have cordoned off the area with tape following the fatal car crash Officers believe the pensioner had suffered a medical episode while driving along the street Officers say anyone with information that could help should make themselves known. This includes anyone who witnessed the incident or has CCTV, dashcam, or doorbell footage from the area. Those who may be able to assist are encouraged to contact police via 101 or their Live Chat service, quoting log 1251 of September 28, 2025. Alternatively the independent charity Crimestoppers can be contacted anonymously on 0800 555 111. News / Health by Gideon Madzikatidze HARARE - Traditional medicines have long been a cornerstone of healthcare in Zimbabwe, and renowned healer Sekuru Nyangatayani (born Peter Chingudzi) believes these practices can effectively complement the country's formal healthcare system.Speaking from China, where he is attending the Hong Kong International Chinese Medicine and Traditional Medicine Conference 2025, Nyangatayani emphasized that both traditional and modern medicines are essential to sustainably transforming Zimbabwe's healthcare landscape.Representing Zimbabwe's rich heritage, Nyangatayani is showcasing indigenous healing practices and advocating for their integration into mainstream healthcare. He argues that traditional medicine offers alternative solutions to various health challenges, potentially easing the burden on hospitals and clinics."By integrating traditional practices with modern medicine, Zimbabwe can adopt a more holistic approach to healthcare. This blend of old and new can improve health outcomes and enhance patient satisfaction," Nyangatayani said.He added that the Hong Kong expo provides a vital platform for traditional healers to promote Zimbabwe's indigenous medicine sector, attract investment, and forge international partnerships."This exposure can lead to economic growth, job creation, and increased national revenue," he said.Zimbabwe's diplomatic mission, led by Consul General Ellias Mutamba, is working to strengthen ties with Hong Kong, with traditional medicine identified as a key sector for potential investment.Nyangatayani's participation underscores the potential of traditional medicine to transform livelihoods. By showcasing local products and expertise, he aims to raise awareness of Zimbabwe's cultural wealth and its role in economic development."This increased visibility can open doors for traditional healers, farmers, and other stakeholders," he added.Meanwhile, Cuthbert Nyaruvenda, President of the Zimbabwe National Practitioners Association (ZINPA), echoed the call for integration."As traditional healers, we operate within indigenous knowledge systems. We treat patients using natural methods and refer them to clinics and hospitals for scientific diagnostics when necessary," Nyaruvenda said.He noted that many patients report positive outcomes from traditional treatments, which helps relieve pressure on the country's formal health institutions."By administering traditional medicines at our surgeries, we are complementing the essential services of Zimbabwe's healthcare system," he added.The World Health Organisation recognizes traditional medicine as a valuable healthcare resource, and many countries are integrating these practices into their national systems. Zimbabwe's traditional medicine sector stands to benefit from this growing global recognition.By leveraging indigenous knowledge and fostering international partnerships, Zimbabwe can unlock new avenues for economic growth and improve the well-being of its citizens. Britain should not have let Jews settle in Palestine and is responsible for decades of ethnic violence that followed in the Middle East, the Labour Party conference heard today. Dr Victor Kattan claimed that the current bloody conflict in Gaza was 'made in Britain' as he campaigned for the UK to apologise and make 'reparations' to Palestinian Arabs. At a fringe event attended by left-wing Labour MPs and peers he said that the period of British rule between 1917 and 1948 before Israel was created had witnessed policies of 'occupation, repression and partition'. The Labour politicians, who include Jeremy Corbyn ally John McDonald, are supporting the campaign, 'Britain owes Palestine', which demands the UK take responsibility for 'serial international law violations' including alleged war crimes committed during what was known as the British Mandate. It also criticises the UK for the 1917 Balfour Declaration, which set out support for 'the establishment in Palestine of a national home for the Jewish people'. Dr Kattan told the event in Liverpool that British control of the Middle East 'violated the legal standards of the time', with policies that included 'large-scale demographic engineering, involving the mass immigration of Jewish persons to Palestine, a country which, when Britain occupied it in 1917, was more than 93 per cent Palestinian Arab'. He added: 'When the British government, British armed forces left Palestine, the Jewish population constituted 33 per cent of the total population, having grown from less than 5 per cent of the population when Britain had arrived. 'Throughout those years Britain denied self-government to the Arab majority, suppressed opposition to Zionism violently and then abandoned the country in the summer of 1948 leaving Palestine in a state of chaos and anarchy.' Dr Victor Kattan said that the current bloody conflict in Gaza was 'made in Britain' as he campaigned for the UK to apologise and make 'reparations' to Palestinian Arabs. Labour politicians, who include Jeremy Corbyn ally John McDonald (left), are supporting a petition handed in to Downing Street last week. Police arrested protesters supporting the banned group Palestine Action outside the Labour party conference in Liverpool He added that the Palestinian people were facing their gravest crisis since 1948, with the Israelis flattening Gaza and threatening to annex the entire West Bank, adding: 'This conflict which we see on our screen of starving children, of mass destruction, death and displacement, was made in Britain.' His remarks were criticised by the Campaign Against Anti-Semitism as 'breathtaking historical ignorance and the sort of shocking moral inversion in which the far-left specialises'. A spokesman said: 'Jews have lived in the land of Israel for over three thousand years, long before the ancestors of most of today's Britons ever set foot in this country. 'Jews began returning to their ancient homeland in unprecedented numbers in the decades before the British Mandate and would have continued doing so in even greater numbers if successive British Governments hadn't restricted Jewish immigration at the behest of the bloodthirsty leadership of the local Arab community, leaving untold numbers to their deaths at Nazi hands. Where are the calls at Labour conference for an apology for that?' 'We expect these sentiments to be roundly condemned by Labour leaders.' Lead petitioner 91-year-old Munib al-Masri was also at the event, alongside Mr McDonald, fellow MPs Simon Opher and Afzal Khan, and peer Lord Dubs. The 400-page legal document, which was handed into No 10 earlier this month, launches the Britain owes Palestine campaign demanding official UK acknowledgement of 'wrongdoing, apology and reparations for creating a century of oppression'. The petition's organisers said it details Britain's 'unlawful legacy' including the Balfour Declaration in 1917 which stated support for establishing a home for Jewish people in Palestine, 'acting as an occupying power during its self-granted mandate' and 'subsequent systematic abuse of the Palestinian people'. Organisers added that it shows how 'ongoing Palestinian suffering can be traced directly to Britain's violations of international law during occupation and withdrawal'. Lead petitioner 91-year-old Munib al-Masri was also at the event, alongside Mr McDonald, fellow MPs Simon Opher and Afzal Khan (pictured), and peer Lord Dubs. Mr McDonald told the event the UK has a 'hidden guilt, a hidden refusal of responsibility' but social media meant a new generation was interested in Gaza They added that the UK Government is 'obliged to respond' to the petition or it could 'find itself brought before the courts in judicial review proceedings'. Mr McDonald told the event the UK has a 'hidden guilt, a hidden refusal of responsibility' over what happened in the first half of the 20th century. But he said that social media meant a new generation was coming forward and wanting to know the history of what happened in Gaza. 'This new generation that has come forward wants to know this and what this new petition is all about is making sure they have access to the resources they need to do that,' he said. 'We talk about reparations but part of the reparations process is reparations based on understanding and it is about repairing the way in which we have educated our own people about this matter.' Elsewhere at the conference police arrested arresting protesters supporting the banned group Palestine Action. Around 100 people have gathered silently to hold signs reading: 'I oppose genocide, I support Palestine Action', protest group Defend Our Juries said. Palestine Action was banned as a terror organisation in July after the group claimed responsibility for an action in which two Voyager planes were damaged at RAF Brize Norton the previous month. Immigrants face a 'good citizen' test to stay in the UK permanently, the Home Secretary is announcing today. Anyone seeking indefinite leave to remain (ILR) in Britain should have a spotless criminal record, Shabana Mahmood will say. Under Labours proposals foreign nationals would need to be working, making National Insurance contributions and not be claiming any benefits. Those who give back to their local community through volunteering, for example may be able to win preferential treatment and get settled status earlier. However, it is understood those who commit less serious offences may still be awarded ILR - but will have to wait longer. Labour will launch a consultation later this year but Ms Mahmoods plan appears to go further than measures outlined in a White Paper in May, as Labour struggles to respond to the electoral threat posed by Nigel Farages Reform UK. Currently, ILR is available to the vast majority of migrants after they have lived here for five years if they can prove they are financially stable, pass the Life in the UK test and an English language test. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood is set to announce plans to limit access to 'indefinite leave to remain', also known as settled status, with foreign nationals who commit crimes barred Labours plans published in May proposed extending the time migrants must live here before being eligible for ILR to 10 years, with some applicants being able to win the status earlier if they showed they were making a contribution to society. It also suggested increasing English language requirements to upper intermediate standard the standard level for foreign students seeking to attend a British university. It is unclear whether Ms Mahmoods plan will require an even higher level of English language ability. Having a criminal record will block most ILR applications, it is understood. Higher level offences will be downright disqualifying, while being convicted of medium-level crimes could result in a penalty of additional years, Labour sources said. As a result, a foreign national who breaks the law could have to continue applying for visas - which can cost hundreds of pounds - rather than securing ILR. They would also no longer be eligible to naturalise as a UK citizen, which is normally possible a year after being granted ILR. In her speech at Labour party conference on Monday Ms Mahmood will vow to be a tough Labour Home Secretary, fighting for a vision of this country that is distinctly our own. She will speak of her fear that Britains porous borders and high immigration leave many people feeling the country is spinning out of control. The Home Secretary will add that patriotism, a force for good, is turning into something smaller, something more like ethno-nationalism. Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp said Labour were 'playing catch-up' She will pledge to fight to keep the country together and warn Labour delegates that if the Government does not succeed working people will turn away from the party and seek solace in the false promises of Farage. In a separate development, the Home Secretary will announce plans for a Winter of Action to tackle shoplifting. It comes after a similar intensive policing over the summer designed to address concerns over rocketing retail crime by targeting 600 hotspots. The operation is likely to include more visible police patrols and undercover operations, with more arrests and fines, a Labour spokesman said. Ms Mahmood will talk about her own experiences as a victim of shoplifting while working behind the till of her familys corner shop as a child. Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp said Labour was playing catch-up. Months ago, we put forward amendments in parliament for tougher ILR rules - doubling the residency requirement for ILR to ten years, make ILR conditional on genuine contribution, blocking criminals, and barring access to benefits, he said. Only the Conservatives have a detailed and deliverable plan in our Deportation Bill. That is how you restore control, not more gimmicks. Andy Burnham tonight insisted he would not 'shy away' as he launched a fresh blast at Sir Keir Starmer's leadership on the first day of Labour's conference in Liverpool. The Greater Manchester mayor, who has claimed Labour MPs are privately urging him to challenge the PM, did nothing to dampen down speculation about his ambitions. In a fiery speech at a rally on Sunday, Mr Burnham accused Sir Keir of shutting down debate within Labour's ranks and overseeing 'a climate of fear within our party'. He acknowledged he had faced a furious backlash in recent days for using a string of media interviews to speak out about Sir Keir's premiership But he claimed that demanding 'simplistic statements of loyalty' risked 'underestimating the peril' that Labour is currently in. Mr Burnham warned that local elections across the UK next May were going to be a 'huge challenge' for the party as he called for a 'debate on our direction'. He added that the Government needed to find a 'more hopeful direction' if Labour was to win again at the next general election, amid the threat posed by Reform UK. The Greater Manchester mayor insisted he was not speaking out 'purely for my own ambition', but on behalf of fellow Labour politicians who face upcoming elections. Andy Burnham insisted he would not 'shy away' as he launched a fresh blast at Sir Keir Starmer 's leadership on the first day of Labour's conference in Liverpool The Greater Manchester mayor, who has claimed Labour MPs are privately urging him to challenge the PM, did nothing to dampen down speculation about his ambitions. In a fiery speech at a rally on Sunday, Mr Burnham accused Sir Keir of shutting down debate within Labour's ranks and overseeing 'a climate of fear within our party'. 'I'm speaking out for the millions of good people around Britain who want a more hopeful direction for the country,' he added. The slump in both Labour's poll ratings and Sir Keir's personal approval among voters has fuelled speculation about the PM's leadership. At a separate event on Sunday, Cabinet minister Wes Streeting said the Government must be 'open to challenge' as he addressed Mr Burnham's recent interventions. The Health Secretary said: 'We've got to be self-confident enough as ministers to be open to challenge, and openly debate different ideas, because it makes you stronger as a Government.' In his own address to a Labour conference fringe event, Mr Burnham said a 'debate' about Labour's direction was needed 'at this moment'. 'I'm putting these ideas forward for a debate,' he said. 'And that's what I've launched, I've launched a debate on our direction because I think we need it at this moment. 'Because I want this Government to be a success.' The Greater Manchester mayor insisted he had 'spent much of the summer' working to strengthen the Hillsborough Law recently unveiled by Sir Keir. He said this 'proves I'm here to support the Government to be that success', adding: 'I did that because I wanted this conference to be a success for the PM and the Government in this city.' But Mr Burnham went on to voice further criticism of Sir Keir's management of Labour, saying: 'I think we need to go further and we do need to have a debate about our direction. 'I for one won't be shying away from that. And, in fact, I'm in a position to say something, to open up that debate. I think it's very important that we do that right now.' He added: 'One of the things I do think we need to have a debate about is how do we have a policy agenda that connects more, that tells a story more - when people are on those doorsteps - about what the Government is trying to do. Mr Burnham warned that local elections across the UK next May were going to be a 'huge challenge' for the party as he called for a 'debate on our direction' The Greater Manchester mayor warned that debate was being stifled wihtin Labour, asking: 'How can you have an open debate about all those things if there is too much of a climate of fear within our party and the way the party is being run?' He spoke out against Labour members being suspended for liking social media posts by other political parties, as well as MPs losing the Labour whip for voting against the Government on welfare cuts or the two-child benefit cap. 'I was in the Blair government and in the Brown government and I don't remember the party in Parliament being run in that way in that era,' Mr Burnham said. 'Because Labour in government needs to draw strength from all bits of the Labour family, it needs hear voices from all parts of the Labour family. 'To sustain a Labour government you can't be narrow and shallow, you've got to have everybody in play, everybody working together.' Sir Keir has dismissed 'the personal ambitions' of Mr Burnham and also appeared draw parallels between the mayor's economic agenda and Liz Truss's mini-budget meltdown. In a riposte to his critics on Sunday night, Mr Burnham said: 'I've been accused of all things in the last week, as you can probably see. 'I've done nothing more than launch a debate. What I would say to those who say I'm speaking out purely for my own ambition. 'I can say to you all tonight I am speaking out for the thousands of councillors here at this conference who are worried about going to those doorsteps next May. 'Speaking for the members of the Senedd who are working hard to keep Wales Labour. 'And, of course, members of the Scottish Parliament as well who want a stronger story about Labour to go to those doorsteps. 'I'm speaking out for the millions of good people around Britain who want a more hopeful direction for the country. 'I think we can do it, I honestly believe it can be done - we can make this Government work. 'We can find that more hopeful direction and we can win again at the next general election.' He shot to fame in the international TV hit Outlander. But now Sam Heughan has returned to the playground of his youth to buy a distillery in his home town. The actor revealed that he has bought the premises in Dumfries in a bid to encourage more tourism to the region. Mr Heughan told The Scotland on Sunday: Its basically a homecoming for me. I was born and raised here and I feel very, very thankful to come from such an amazing place. People come to Scotland, especially tourists, and they go up north and to Skye, Glencoe but actually theres so much to discover in Galloway. He added: I created the Galloway distillery to champion and celebrate the unique terroir and history of this beautiful corner of Scotland. A homecoming and new chapter, in the pursuit of fine spirit. The distillery, which has operated as Crafty Distillery since 2017, will be renamed as Galloway Distillery in a proud tribute to the surrounding landscape. Outlander's Sam Heughan has created the Galloway Distillery in his home town of Dumfries The spirit house will also produce Heughans own award-winning Sassenach spirits, including his blended Scotch Whisky and Wild Scottish Gin, which is distilled using locally foraged botanicals from Dumfries and Galloway. At the launch event the actor-turned-entrepreneur even hinted at the possibility of releasing a new addition to the Sassenach range a fresh whisky blend. Announcing his latest venture, the 45-year-old made it clear that promoting his distillery would go hand-in-hand with a celebration of all the other attractions on offer in Dumfries and Galloway. He said: As a 10 year old boy, I stood triumphantly on the highest point of the derelict Kenmure Castle - the silhouette of the castle walls, crumbling turrets, empty windows and gaping doorways, like some uneven jagged ogres mouth. Mr Heughan continued: At that time I would never have imagined I would return, decades later, after travelling the world and delighting in other cultures, to literally walk back through the playground of my youth. I dare you to lose yourself like I did, to travel back in time. To experience the magic that Galloway has to offer. Master distiller Craig Rankin, who has worked as commercial manager at the distillery for nearly a decade, said: Sam grew up here and Galloway is close to his heart. Its an understatement to say that hes invested in Scotland, Galloway and creating spirits. He feels it deeply. When rescue workers reached Tetyana Sakyian, the pregnant Ukrainian was so severely burnt medics were forced to induce her into a coma and deliver her baby prematurely. She had been pulled from the scorching rubble by husband Vadym Bohdan who described the pain as 'almost catatonic' after a Shahed drone incinerated their Kyiv apartment. The inferno scorched nearly every inch of her flesh, risked killing the unborn child and the searing agony was so total it was overwhelming her brain. Tetyana, 23, suffered 90 per cent burns but miraculously surgeons managed to deliver little Nazar at 35 weeks within hours of the drone strike - though he is still fighting for his life. When Vadym awoke he was mummified in bandages as he had lost almost his entire skin barrier - but his first words were for his wife. Told he was a father while she lay fighting for her life, he tried to drag himself to her bedside, blocking out his own unimaginable pain. He was restrained for his own survival, only to learn last Monday that Tetyana succumbed to her injuries. She became the sixth victim of Russia's biggest ever drone strike on Ukraine on September 7. Baby Nazar is fighting for his life after being delivered prematurely Vadym Bohdan tried to force his way to his wife's bedside after learning she had given birth Vadym and Tetyana moved to Kyiv six months ago to build a family together 'When he learnt that Tetyana had given birth to their son, and about the state she was in, he first begged to be taken to her,' Vadym's sister Oksana Bohdan, 26, told the Daily Mail. 'Then he tried to reach her by force. Doctors had to restrain him, tying him to his bed, so that he would not accidentally harm himself given the severity of his burns.' Oksana was driving to Kyiv City Hospital No 2 to 'hold my little nephew' for the first time when they called to let her know Tetyana had slipped away. 'After the long road, I can hardly find the words,' Oksym told us through tears after getting the news. 'My brother Vadym already knows that the woman he loved has died. I cannot describe his grief my own tears choke me. 'Now I am gathering the last of my strength to go to the clinic and see my nephew, little Nazar, whose life the doctors are still fighting to save. 'This is what Russians brought to my country and my family, curse them.' Vadym before his wife succumbed to her injuries The funeral for Tetyana who was hit in Russia's biggest ever drone strike on Ukraine Vadym and Tetyana's tragic story is just a small glimpse of the terror Volodymyr Zelensky warned the UN last week that Vladimir Putin's drones are inflicting. While the dictator has increasingly used them to probe NATO allies in recent weeks, each night they torment millions of Ukrainians as they sleep with nearly 600 swarming the country on Saturday. Vadym and Tetyana moved from Tyshkivka, a village in the central Kirovohrad region, to the capital to build a family together six months ago. But they were woken by the tell-tale buzz of the Shahed on September 7. 'They first heard the drone fly past, so they went back to bed and then it came back,' said Oksana. 'It was a targeted strike on a civilian building. They were in bed when the drone hit their apartment and the fire broke out. 'Vadym told me he pulled Tetyana out from under the rubble with his own hands. The two of them, almost catatonic with pain, somehow managed to call for help and alert the rescuers. 'Not long after, Tetyana started losing consciousness, and the doctors had no choice but to deliver her baby prematurely.' Tatyana Bondarenko, Deputy Director for Medical Affairs of Kyiv City Medical Centre, said it was 'an extremely complex undertaking' to deliver Nazar who, like his father, remains in a critical condition. If he pulls through, Vadym will forever bear the scars from September 7. Tatyana Bondarenko, Deputy Director for Medical Affairs of Kyiv City Medical Centre, said it was 'an extremely complex undertaking' to deliver Nazar Firefighters work at the site of an overnight Russian attack in Kyiv on September 7 'I will most likely be a temporary or permanent guardian for the child. I will do everything for them,' Oksana said. 'We thank the gods that the boy has made it through this horror so far he is the one ray of hope we have in this horrendous situation. Our doctors truly performed a miracle.' Of the invaders, she said: 'No matter how many years pass, we will never be able to forgive the Russians for all the Ukrainian children who were killed.' A Texas metropolis has the highest poverty rate among all cities in America, according to data from the US Census Bureau. In 2024, 21.1 percent of residents in Houston lived at or below the federal poverty line. This is more than double the national poverty rate of the US, at 10.6 per cent, according to census data. Daniel Potter, director of the Houston Population Research Center at the Kinder Institute, told ABC 13 that the problem is not due to a low number of jobs - rather a lack of higher-paying opportunities. Potter told the outlet: 'We're missing jobs that are paying between about $100,000 and $150,000. These are not entry-level positions we're talking about. 'These are your mid-career. These are positions that oftentimes people are working towards.' A study this year by the Kinder Institute for Urban Research found that the gap for homeownership in Houston and Harris County has increased as land prices outpaced wage gains. Houston, Texas, has the highest poverty rate among all cities, according to data from the US Census Bureau A homeless man panhandles at I-69 and Weslayan Street in Houston in January this year In 2024, 21.1 per cent of residents in Houston lived at or below the federal poverty line. Pictured: Homeless outreach teams are seen above in Houston in December 2024 The study also found that significant rent increases have added roughly 15,000 new cost-burdened renters in the year. More than half of Houstonians are spending more than 30 per cent of their income on rent, according to ABC. 'When I'm taking half of my income and I'm putting it into just my lodging, it is leaving very little behind for me to have money for my food, my utilities, my insurances,' said Potter. He added: 'It's just recognizing we've got to make sure we're prioritizing those living wage positions because we've got folks that are working here. It's just making sure they've got those opportunities.' The director also highlighted that Houston's poverty rate has decreased from 15 years ago, when he stated that it was about one in four people in the city who were living in poverty. On July 9, Houston Mayor John Whitmire discussed his plan for addressing homelessness in the city. 'There's no doubt about it, a solution to the homeless conditions is a top priority, it's one of the reasons I listed for running office, certainly for the mayor's office, and I know all of us share that. 'We've made progress, this is just going to be another tool in the kit if the council approves it to where we can encourage individuals to get out of the elements to get healthcare, food and a bed that are not receiving it. There are a total of 3,325 people experiencing homelessness in Houston Of those people, 1,282 live unsheltered a 15.8 per cent increase from 2024 and 2,043 are staying in shelters a 6 percent decrease from the year before 'It's just wrong for people to live in those conditions, and it's wrong for the public to have to engage this population in public spaces.' There are a total of 3,325 people experiencing homelessness in Houston, according to the Coalition for the Homeless of Houston/Harris County. Of those people, 1,282 live unsheltered - a 15.8 per cent increase from 2024 - and 2,043 are staying in shelters, which is a 6 percent decrease from the year before. While Houston suffers from poverty, a suburb on the outskirts was recently rated the hottest zip code in the US. Cypress, Texas was ranked number one in the most popular zip codes for new residents in 2025, according to a report by Moving Place. It is home to more than 200,000 people and is about 30 minutes away from Houston. Cypress welcomed 3,636 movers from May to January this year. It is sometimes said that unAmerican is a word which does not translate to this side of the Pond. America was founded on an idea life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness against which the actions and philosophies of today can be judged. Britain, on the other hand, is a creation of history, and so it makes no sense to call a politician or policy unBritish. Our hodge-podge constitution is concerned with government in the here and now rather than obedience to prescriptive ideals. Im afraid I think this is so much hogwash. Of course there is such a thing as unBritish. Keir Starmers digital ID plans are the definition of unBritish. (Contrary to initial suggestions, the scheme will not be called Brit Card, a relief to those who take more umbrage at the name than the infringement of liberties. Whether you identify as British, Scottish, Irish or Wiccan Jedi, your privacy will be taking a thumping all the same.) The government says this mandatory scheme will help combat illegal working while making it easier for the vast majority of people to use vital government services. Labour's plans for ID cards have raised fears of a Big Brother society Well, who could be against that? This is how the state always talks when it has designs on your liberties. Ministers speak as though theyre doing you a good turn, making life more straight-forward. Nothing to worry about. All for your own good. Trust us. Any government that says it can only improve things by requiring you to install identity-tracking technology on your phone has forfeited the right to ask for your trust. It plainly doesnt trust you and you should return the favour. In his Oxford History of England, AJP Taylor recorded that, prior to the Great War, a sensible, law-abiding Englishman could pass through life and hardly notice the existence of the state, beyond the post office and the policeman. Such a man had not official number or identity card, and what was true of the Kings subjects was true even of a foreigner, who could spend his life in this country without permit and without informing the police. Taylors account is loved by lovers of liberty and often quoted against an ascendant threat to the freedom of the individual. And while it is a romanticised version of the past, there is an essential truth captured amid its spires-and-shires idealism. By the Victorian era, England and, broadly speaking, Britain was a high-trust society in which liberty was cherished, order upheld lightly, and a persons private affairs generally untrespassed upon by the state. Oh, Stephen. Thats old-fashioned, fuddy-duddy stuff. The world has moved on. Good for the world, but I havent. I still believe in the Taylorian Britain of liberty, trust and privacy, and if those arrangements have become unsustainable, it is for those who govern us to explain why. I doubt its a conversation they will wish to have. But no one will be asked to produce their ID except to prove their right to work. Of course not. The government is going to the trouble of setting up a digital identity scheme for 69 million people, with all the time, bureaucracy and costs that will involve, just to verify migrant work visas. You neednt be a conspiracy theorist to see how such a programme could undergo mission creep and become in effect an ID card. Come now. As the government says, this will make it simpler to apply for services like driving licences, childcare and welfare, while streamlining access to tax records. Surely everyone would welcome that? It sounds very appealing, but a few thoughts occur. The more that access to services depends on digital IDs, the greater the disruption will surely be whenever the technology falters. Plus, any scheme which collates so much of your information in one place seems likely to become a target for hackers. Again, government tech isnt exactly known for its robust design. Remember the Covid apps. Well, if it stops illegal immigration, its worth it. Lets get to that, for thats what this is all about. Not Big Brother plotting to control us or manipulate our data or any other fanciful notions. Its about immigration and the failure of successive governments to control it. And because of that, we will all be made to go around with an app on our phones that, wifi and glitches permitting, will confirm whether we belong here or not. Your history and heritage, your citizenship and contribution to the country these will no longer be authoritative in defining your nationality. An app will be the arbiter. The government cites similar schemes in Australia and Denmark as proof that digital IDs work and are nothing to fear. Ministers have, inadvertently, stumbled onto a good point. We should look to these countries and learn from their policies. Instead of adopting Australias ID policy, lets adopt their illegal immigration policy. Introduced by Tony Abbotts government in 2013, Operation Sovereign Borders (OSB) was the Commonwealths response to the boats crisis, which at its height saw more than 20,000 illegal migrants enter Australia by sea in the space of a year. Keir Starmer would have your arm off for such a low number, but Australians believe in their country and reckon its borders should be enforced, so this was a big deal for them. OSB deployed the Royal Australian Navy to intercept unauthorised vessels and turn them back before they could reach Australia. Those migrants who did make it ashore were transferred by the Australian Border Force to offshore detention. Critics called it cruel, inhumane, and mean-spirited. What they didnt call it was ineffective: in the space of 12 months, the number of illegal migrants arriving in Australia fell by 98 per cent. The Tories attempted a watered-down version of this with the Rwanda plan, which was struck down by the courts. Rightly so, for ministers knew the plan would be ruled incompatible with the European Convention on Human Rights. Rather than tackle this head on by legislating to disapply the Convention in this area or withdrawing from it altogether the previous government preferred to con the public into thinking ministers had sincerely tried to stop the boats but were stopped by Big, Bad Activist Judges. Instead of Denmarks ID programme, why not copy their immigration programme? When the European migration crisis brought an influx of outsiders, many from the Middle East and North Africa who spoke little or no Danish, even the liberal, enlightened Danes had enough. They felt migrants were putting a strain on public services, their famously generous welfare state, and multicultural harmony. So the voters booted out the centre-right government that had presided over this mess and installed the left-wing Social Democrats. Sounds topsy-turvy, doesnt it? But Mette Frederiksen, who has been prime minister for six years now, isnt your average lefty. Shes a sort of socialist Margaret Thatcher a deeply unsettling concept and has pursued a high tax, big spending agenda while cracking down on both legal and illegal immigration. Deterrent measures include denying refugees permanent status, restricting asylum seekers ability to bring family members to Denmark, and making migrants work for benefits or if they fail to learn Danish. Her fellow left-wingers have accused Frederiksen of lurching to the far right, but her policies are popular with the public and asylum applications are at a 40-year low. Neither of these approaches is likely to be adopted by either front bench in the UK. The Tories promised to cut migration then drove it up to levels never before seen in Britain. Labour is so unwilling to confronting illegal immigration head-on that it would rather impose a digital papers please policy on the entire country. Liberty, privacy, and British history be damned. It doesnt matter if its the red elite or the blue elite, the political class is ideologically opposed to enforcing Britains borders. They will sacrifice anything, cast aside centuries of custom and convention, change the very relationship between the citizen and the state, rather than stop tens of thousands breaking into the UK every year. Their ID scheme is unBritish because they do not believe in Britain. George Galloway tonight launched into an extraordinary rant after he and his wife were detained by counter-terror police for nine hours at Gatwick Airport. The angered former MP, 71, claimed armed police swooped on him and Putri Gayatri Pertiwi, 40, on Saturday. Reports said the couple had returned to the UK from Moscow via Abu Dhabi. Mr Galloway said he was quizzed for four hours and asked about his views on Russia and China. While his wife was questioned for five hours in which he claimed she was asked about 'her famous fingernail, painted in the Palestinian colours'. In a slew of unfounded accusations at the start of his Mother Of All Talk Shows broadcast, the leader of the Workers Party of Britain claimed they were detained under the terrorism act 'to gain access to our communications'. But he defiantly said they were 'unintimidatable' before launching into a scathing diatribe against counter terrorism officers. 'If they don't know that, they are too stupid to be anti-terrorism police, they're too stupid to be in MI5 if they think they can intimidate me. Not even death will intimidate me. 'There is only one reason why they detained us there, under that legislation - it was to gain access to our communications, to confiscate phones, to confiscate laptops, and to enter and burgle and see what they can do with our private communications.' He claimed officers asked him for a password 'for a phone that wasn't mine', but he told them 'I don't have the password, and if I did I wouldn't give it to you' as 'I wouldn't betray my sources to you'. 'It's come to something when a man like me, a man with the profile that I have, can be stopped by armed policemen at an English airport,' he said. George Galloway, 71, with his wife Putri Gayatri Pertiwi, 40, in 2024 speaks to the media outside the Houses of Parliament in Westminster after being sworn in as a MP Mr Galloway claimed he and his wife were detained by counter terror police at Gatwick for nine hours, where his partner was asked about her 'her famous fingernail, painted in the Palestinian colours' Speaking on tonight's edition of his internet show, he added: 'Not a single effort was made to show cause for having detained me and her with armed officers in public in an English airport.' Addressing his viewers, he said: 'If they can arrest me under the terrorism Act at an English airport, what hope have you got?' Mr Galloway said he had travelled to the UK to give a speech in London at an event due to be attended by the Chinese ambassador. 'Held together with my wife for nine hours,' he said. 'Missing the engagement that I had come to London to perform, and having to make that weary journey back on the train with no phones, with no laptop, incommunicado, unable to speak with any of our family, any of our comrades, any of our friends, or any of our legal representatives.' The Met said in a statement on Saturday: 'We can confirm that on Saturday September 27, counter terrorism officers at Gatwick Airport stopped a man in his 70s and a woman in her 40s under Schedule 3 of the Counter Terrorism and Border Security Act 2019. 'Neither of them were arrested and they were allowed on their way.' The Act gives police, immigration and customs officers the power to stop people to find out if they are 'engaged in hostile activities that threaten national security or the economic well-being of the UK'. The Workers Party of Britain yesterday said the move was 'politically motivated intimidation', claiming police have refused to reveal any information. In a statement shared on X, they said: 'At 11am we were informed by police officers in Gatwick that our party leader George Galloway and his wife have been detained at the airport 'The police agreed that they would pass a message to our comrades from us and pass back a reply from them. 'Despite repeated attempts to gather further information, and despite repeated calls to the police, we have no further information on their wellbeing, nor on the observation of their Rights. 'There is no information on charges or alleged offences. Therefore we may conclude this is politically motivated intimidation. The politician controversially made an appearance in Moscow as Russia's Vladimir Putin celebrated Victory Day with a huge military parade in May 'We call on all supporters and friends to amplify this message and demand the IMMEDIATE RELEASE of our leaders.' Mr Galloway controversially made an appearance in Moscow as Russia's Vladimir Putin celebrated Victory Day with a huge military parade in May. Taking to X to share snaps of himself in Moscow, Galloway called the Victory Day Celebrations 'moving, emotional, inspiring, humbling.' Pictures posted by the politician show him and his fourth wife - who is 30 years his junior - posing for the camera on Red Square. The Workers Party of Britain leader lost his Rochdale seat at last year's general election just months after winning the constituency in a shock by-election. He has criticised British and US foreign policies during his career, including their support for Ukraine. A new record has been set for the most migrants crossing the Channel to the UK on a single boat - as three people, including a child, die on treacherous journeys this weekend. The passage to the UK on Saturday saw 125 people on one vessel come over to Britain from France, it is understood. The number of people onboard breaks a previous record from August, when 106 migrants crossed to the UK on what was dubbed a 'mega dinghy' by media. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said: 'These small boats crossings are utterly unacceptable and the vile people smugglers behind them are wreaking havoc on our borders. 'Thanks to our deal with France, people crossing in small boats can be detained and the first removals have now begun. 'Protecting the UK border is my priority as Home Secretary and I will explore all options to restore order to our immigration system.' It comes amid reports a child tragically died off the French coast on Sunday morning while attempting to cross the Channel in a small boat. This followed the awful deaths of two women as they tried to make passage to the UK, in a separate incident off the northern coast of France. Last year, 50 people died while trying to cross the Channel, according to incidents recorded by the French coastguard. Pictured: Migrants on an inflatable boat in an attempt to cross the Channel from off Gravelines, France, on Saturday A new, longer type of dinghy is being used by people traffickers. This inflatable was intercepted in the Channel by UK Border Force with an astonishing 107 people aboard last month - a record - and brought into the Port of Dover The passage to the UK on Saturday saw 125 people on one vessel come over from France , it is understood. Pictured: Border Force escorts migrants into Dover on Saturday after they were rescued in the middle of the Channel trying to reach the UK Several people have now been removed to France under the UK Government's 'one in, one out' deal. It is part of Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer's efforts to both 'smash the gangs' that smuggle migrants to the UK and deter people from making the journey. Some 33,000 migrants have arrived in Britain on small boats this year so far. This is a record-breaking total for this point in the year, with such highs never before seen since data on Channel crossings was first reported in 2018. Saturday saw 895 people arrive in 12 boats. An investigation has now been launched into the latest migrant death on a Channel crossing, according to French publication Nord Littoral. The horrific incident happened at about 6.30am on Sunday at Ecault beach, in the town of Saint-Etienne-au-Mont, around 30 miles down the coast from Calais. French emergency services commander Jonathan Caruso said some 48 migrants had to be cared for by response workers after falling into the sea. Your browser does not support iframes. But the boat soon 'continued on to England', with around 50 people still onboard, he added. Cecile Gressier, the prosecutor in nearby port town Boulogne-sur-Mer, told the title: 'An investigation has been opened to determine the conditions of death. 'The age and nationality of the victim are not determined.' She said the victim's body had washed up on Ecault beach. Other sources at the scene suggested the deceased was a young teenager. The two female migrants who tragically died this weekend are reported to have come from Somalia. They lost their lives after about 100 people had left northern France for the UK in a makeshift boat overnight on Friday into Saturday, according to French media. French police said the women died by suffocation or drowning after the overloaded boat set off for the UK at around 3.15am. Your browser does not support iframes. Some 33,000 migrants have arrived in Britain on small boats this year so far. Pictured: A migrant swims to board an inflatable dinghy at Gravelines, France, to attempt to cross the Channel to Britain on Saturday Around 60 people were rescued from the crossing. A couple and their child were taken to a hospital in Boulogne, the reports said, while others were treated for hypothermia. The horrifying incident happened south of the Neufchatel-Hardelot beaches, between Boulogne and the town of Le Touquet, with the boat thought to have got into difficulty at around 5am, soon after launching. The pair of women are said to be at least the twentieth Channel crossing death this year alone, French newspaper La Voix Du Nord reports. Boulogne prosecutors have opened a criminal enquiry into all the weekend deaths, as they try to find the people smugglers responsible for launching the boats. Several other children were among the three who tragically died on the route to the UK earlier this month after they were crushed at the bottom of a boat. Last year, 50 people died while trying to cross the Channel, according to incidents recorded by the French coastguard. It means 2024 is considered the deadliest year for migrants since the displacement crisis began. The International Organisation for Migration has also reported several more migrant deaths believed to be linked to crossing attempts in 2024 and this year. Your browser does not support iframes. French Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau has said of such tragedies: 'Our government will intensify the fight against these mafias who are getting rich by organising these crossings of death.' Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron have pledged to 'strengthen cooperation' to fight the people smugglers. Both hope their 'one-in-one-out' plan will in time provide a deterrent for would-be asylum seekers if they believe they risk being quickly sent back. It comes as Sir Keir condemned Reform's plan to strip migrants of 'settled status' as 'racist' and 'immoral'. Speaking on the first day of the Labour party conference in Liverpool, the Prime Minister launched a scathing attack on Nigel Farage's party, claiming they do not believe in a 'tolerant and diverse' Britain. On Monday, Reform announced it would abolish the rights of migrants to qualify for permanent settlement in the UK after five years if they were to win the next election. The status, known as indefinite leave to remain (ILR), allows people who have lived here for more than five years to apply for British citizenship and claim benefits. Your browser does not support iframes. Reform, in criticised estimations, has said some 3.8million migrants who arrived after the pandemic will be eligible for ILR between 2026 and 2030. Mr Farage claimed ending the status will save 234billion that would be paid out in benefits for them and their dependants in the coming decades. The policy has been heavily criticised by opposition parties, with Chancellor Rachel Reeves suggesting the savings 'have no basis in reality'. Tory shadow home secretary Chris Philp, meanwhile, called the plans 'half-baked and unworkable'. Sir Keir today gave his view on the policy, telling the BBC's Laura Kuenssberg: 'I do think that it is a racist policy. I do think it is immoral. 'It needs to be called out for what it is.' Critics have pointed out migrants who have lived in the UK for decades and have British children would be affected. Reform has since suggested pensioners, Ukrainians and Hong Kongers would be exempted. Asked if Reform are trying to appeal to racists, the PM said: 'No, I think there are plenty of people who either vote Reform or are thinking of voting Reform who are frustrated. 'They had 14 years of failure under the Conservatives, they want us to change things. 'They may have voted Labour a year ago, and they want the change to come more quickly. I actually do understand that.' He had earlier said: 'It is one thing to say we're going to remove illegal migrants, people who have no right to be here. I'm up for that. 'It is a completely different thing to say we are going to reach in to people who are lawfully here and start removing them. They are our neighbours. 'They're people who work in our economy. They are part of who we are. It will rip this country apart.' Sir Keir promised to put an end to taxpayer-funded taxis for asylum seekers travelling to doctor's appointments 'as soon as we can'. He said: 'It shouldn't be happening. It's not fair.' In return, London will accept an equal number of migrants from France, who are likely to have their asylum claims granted. Pictured: Migrants wait to board a small boat to reach Britain in Gravelines, France, on September 19, 2025 Pressed on whether this would be ended immediately, he said: 'As soon as we can, but we will stop it.' Sir Keir also said he would like to bring forward the 2029 deadline the Government has set to close all asylum hotels, saying: 'I'm looking at alternative accommodation and doing everything we can to bring that forward.' The PM said he had 'thought for some time that the Left got it wrong' on immigration. Under Labour's 'one in, one out' deal with France, the UK can return migrants after arrival if they are deemed ineligible for asylum. This includes those who have passed through a 'safe country' to reach UK shores. In return, London will accept an equal number of migrants from France, who are likely to have their asylum claims granted. The first migrants from France under Labour's deal arrived in the UK on Thursday. A family of three, including a small child, came to Britain after successfully completing the online application process, the Home Office said. Four migrants have so far been sent back to France under the deal - one Indian national, one Eritrean, one Iranian and one Afghan. Since the treaty came into force on August 6, some 6,752 small boat migrants have crossed the Channel and reached Britain. A Home Office spokesperson has previously said of the deal: 'The UK-France deal is a historic agreement, and these are critical first steps. 'This is a clear message to people-smuggling gangs that illegal entry into the UK will not be tolerated. 'We will continue to detain and remove those who arrive by small boat. 'And we will work with France to operate a legal route for an equal number of eligible migrants to come to the UK subject to security checks.' President Donald Trump will fully embrace his role as Commander-in-Chief of America's armed forces later this week. Trump told NBC News Sunday that he will be present at a meeting of the nation's top military leaders organized by Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, which will take place this Tuesday in Quantico,Virginia. Speaking with NBC News over the phone, Trump shared the following about the forthcoming meeting: 'It's really just a very nice meeting talking about how well we're doing militarily, talking about being in great shape, talking about a lot of good, positive things. It's just a good message,' Trump noted. 'We have some great people coming in and it's just an 'esprit de corps.' You know the expression 'esprit de corps'? That's all it's about. We're talking about what we're doing, what they're doing, and how we're doing,' the Commander-in-Chief added. News of the meeting being called by Hegseth last week raised some alarm, as attendees were initially not told of the reason why they were being summoned to Washington, DC, from their respective posts across the globe. Daily Mail reported Friday that Hegseth's order to pull leaders into a meeting was kinglike. 'He is playing mind games and wants to let them know who is boss. There is nothing big going on. They will just go over future strategies, posturing and policies. After the meeting, you might even report on some firings that will happen,' a defense official told the Daily Mail. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth listens as President Donald Trump speaks in the Oval Office of the White House, Monday, Sept. 15, 2025, in Washington Vehicles drive to the entrance of Marine Corps Base Quantico, Friday Sep. 26, 2025, in Quantico, Va U.S. President Donald Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth attend a cabinet meeting at the White House in Washington, D.C., U.S., August 26, 2025 United States President Donald J. Trump spoke to reporters before leaving the White House on Sunday, September 21st 'To me, it shows how out of depth Hegseth is,' the official added. 'He doesn't understand how the military works. It runs on structure, and that is what makes it work. To just be like, everyone is coming into town now, and on the day of the shutdown, it is poor messaging and poor planning on Hegseth's part.' Other individuals who spoke with the Daily Mail raised concerns of security threats. 'I think it is very concerning that you are pulling every single general and flag officer back to Quantico that is a lot of people to pull from their duty stations,' a former official said. 'It would be very rare to have the combatant and deputy commander come into town and leave your station to be in town for whatever this is.' A source close to Hegseth says the mystery clouding the meeting is a deliberate move, in line with the president's love of drama. 'This is a planned strategy to leave it vague,' they added. 'The mystique is part of the goal.' Ed Miliband has branded Elon Musk 'dangerous' and launched into an expletive-laden tirade against Nigel Farage's Reform UK. The Energy Secretary said the Tesla billionaire had 'called for the overthrow of the Government' and 'incited violence on our streets' warning that Musk's platform, X, is a hub for 'disinformation'. Mr Musk, who is seeking an energy supply licence in Britain, sparked outrage earlier this month when he told a Unite the Kingdom rally that 'violence is coming' unless there was urgent political change. Speaking at a Labour conference fringe event, Mr Miliband raged: 'Look, he called for the overthrow of our government. He incited violence on our streets. His platform, X, promotes disinformation. He is a dangerous person, definitely.' He added: 'Most Britons really don't like Elon Musk, they don't like people coming and saying 'we should overthrow the government' and whatever other crap he says.' The Doncaster North MP also brushed off attacks from Donald Trump, who last week used a United Nations speech to denounce wind and solar power and demand fresh drilling for North Sea oil. Mr Miliband insisted: 'We were elected by the British people with a mandate from the British people and we're going to carry on with our mandate, whatever Trump says. The truth is, most countries are getting on with this.' Turning his fire on Reform UK, he accused the party of trying to import a 'US-style culture war' into Britain over climate change. She is the latest figure to hit out at Mr Miliband, who refused to relinquish his job at the recent reshuffle. He said: 'We have to offer people a diagnosis of what has gone wrong in Britain and how we are going to put it right now. We know what Reform's diagnosis is, which is they think it's all the fault of immigration, net zero, diversity, God knows what, a lot of it imported from the US.' Insisting Reform was 'absolutely beatable', the Cabinet minister exploded: 'What's the f****** point of politics? The point of politics is to go out and argue for things.' He claimed climate change denial was a 'dead end' for the Conservatives and Reform alike pointing to his own constituents: 'No-one in my seat wants to reopen the coal mines. 'Part of what I hate about Reform is they want to pretend that people in my constituency in Doncaster don't care about their kids and grandkids and the country they inherit. Of course, they f****** do, right?' With Reform climbing in the polls, Mr Miliband warned: 'The stakes are higher than they've ever been for this party and for the country, because of who the threat is. We've got to beat these people because of who they are, who they represent, the bigger global network that they represent.' But his comments risk widening Labour's growing rift with the unions. Unite boss Sharon Graham today accused him of having 'no plan' to replace jobs in Britain's oil industry, warning that refinery closures at Grangemouth and Lindsey could cost 30,000 posts by 2030. She fumed: 'We have to make things here.' Unite general secretary Sharon Graham accused the Energy and Net Zero Secretary of having 'no plan' for how to replace the jobs lost in the industry, which could hit 30,000 by 2030 Ms Graham is the latest senior figure to question Sir Keir Starmer's decision to keep Mr Miliband in post. The PM is said to have tried to shift him into housing during last month's reshuffle but the Energy Secretary refused to budge. Asked about the row, Mr Miliband replied: 'The way I put it is that Keir is extremely happy that I am carrying on doing this job.' The row comes amid mounting anger over soaring household energy costs. Families face an average rise of 35 from October taking the typical bill to 1,755 despite falling global prices. Regulator Ofgem has blamed 'policy costs' imposed by Mr Miliband, with millions of households forced to subsidise wind farm shutdowns, pay for backup gas plants, and cover expanded support schemes for people on benefits. At the election, Labour pledged to slash bills by 300 but since taking office the annual cap has risen by 187. Tory energy spokeswoman Claire Coutinho said the increases were 'directly linked' to Mr Miliband's 'dash to decarbonise Britain's electricity supply by 2030'. New Zealand will not recognise a Palestinian state at this time but remains committed to a two-state solution, Foreign Minister Winston Peters said. 'With a war raging, Hamas remaining the de facto government of Gaza, and no clarity on next steps, too many questions remain about the future state of Palestine for it to be prudent for New Zealand to announce recognition at this time,' Peters said in a speech at the United Nations General Assembly in New York on Friday. 'We are also concerned that a focus on recognition, in the current circumstances, could complicate efforts to secure a ceasefire by pushing Israel and Hamas into even more intransigent positions,' Peters added. New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said in Auckland on Saturday that 'recognition of Palestinian statehood is a question of when, not if'. New Zealand's position is out of step with traditional partners Australia, Canada and Britain who all recognised a Palestinian state on Sunday. The move aligned them with more than 140 other countries also backing Palestinians' aspiration to forge an independent homeland from the occupied territories. A furious dog lover was left horrified after spotting a small pup locked in a car in scorching 30C heat. Bella Khoury filmed herself giving the panting dog a cup of cold water after seeing it alone outside a Sydney gym on Sunday. She had already called the fire service to rescue the pup, but before they could arrive, the owner returned. Despite the dog clearly struggling in the heat, the owner insisted it was fine to leave it in the car for over an hour. 'It's not f***king hot, the windows are down,' the owner yelled when confronted by Ms Khoury. 'I'm fine. Get lost.' Ms Khoury, joined by coworkers, told the woman, 'you can't even look after your dog'. The owner simply yelled 'bye' as she drove away. Hundreds of outraged commenters slammed her blatant disregard for the dog. A small dog was left alone inside a hot car while its owner spent over an hour in the gym Despite the dog clearly struggling in the heat, the owner insisted it was fine to leave it in the car for over an hour 'That dog was covered in sweat - poor thing,' another said. 'She also said she 'does it all the time'. Disgusting,' another added. 'What's the point of bringing your dog if you're going to leave it in the car,' one asked. The RSPCA warns: 'There is really no safe situation to leave your dog unattended in a vehicle - heat can cause heatstroke, dehydration, or even brain damage. 'Unlike humans, dogs have very few sweat glands, so these are not effective at cooling them down,' the RSPCA website states. 'Instead, they need to rely on panting, which produces moist air, but if the air around them is too hot, they are unable to get their body temperature back to normal. 'It is also important to know that no measures you take can prevent heatstroke if your dog is left in a car leaving the windows down, parking in a cool spot in the shade, tinting glass windows or leaving water in the car only offer a false sense of security.' Through the war years, Winston Churchill had galvanised the nation with his stirring rhetoric. Then, after the death of his wartime friend George VI, hed forged a close relationship with the new Queen and mentored her through the early years of her reign. It was little wonder that in March 1955, after Churchill had informed her of his decision to finally retire, Queen Elizabeth was keen on granting the old bulldog nothing less than a Dukedom. There was just one problem: a Palace decision had been taken never to create another non-royal Dukedom. And Palace officials refused to budge on the matter, even for Churchill. The Queen, however, was determined to make an exception for her 81-year-old Prime Minister. In the end, officials agreed she could make the offer but only because everyone was convinced that hed turn it down. After all, Winston had not made any secret of the fact that he never wanted to join the House of Lords. Hed doubtless see the offer as a symbolic gesture and graciously decline. Or so they thought. As Winston set off for the Palace on the evening of April 5 to see the Queen, his private secretary Jock Colville had last-minute doubts; it was possible, knowing as I did that he was madly in love with the Queen, that in a moment of rheumy-eyed sentimentality, Winston might decide to accept the offer. Through the war years, Winston Churchill, pictured travelling to a War Cabinet meeting, had galvanised the nation with his stirring rhetoric Winston Churchill forged a close relationship with the new Queen and mentored her through the early years of her reign When he returned to No 10, Jock asked: How did it go? The great mans eyes brimmed with tears. Do you know, the most remarkable thing she offered to make me a Duke I was so moved by her beauty and her charm and the kindness with which she made this offer, that for a moment I thought of accepting. But finally I remembered that I must die as I have always been Winston Churchill. And so I asked her to forgive my not accepting it. And do you know, its an odd thing, but she seemed almost relieved. Barely two years before, on June 2, 1953, Churchill whod begun his career under the reign of Queen Victoria had been in Westminster Abbey to witness the crowning of the young Queen. In ration book Britain, still pockmarked by bomb sites, people gathered round TV sets. The fresh-faced Queen seemed to many to embody a bright new Elizabethan age while Prime Minister Winston Churchill represented the best of the past. Cecil Beaton, the society photographer, somewhat unkindly described him as that great old relic, [who] lurches forward on unsteady feet. He may have noted what most did not: the health of the great old relic was failing. Just three weeks later, Winston and his wife Clemmie were hosting a dinner at No 10 when he suffered a stroke, leaving him slurring his words and even more unsteady. Most of his guests failed to recognise the symptoms, thinking only that he was a little worse for wear after a nights drinking. Over the next few days, he began to have difficulty speaking and lost the use of his left arm. But when he retired to his country home Chartwell in Kent to convalesce, Winston forbade his private secretary from telling the Queen about his condition. His doctor Lord Moran feared the worst. He told Jock Colville that he didnt think the Prime Minister could possibly live over the weekend. Faced with such a dire prognosis, Jock broke his word and informed the Queens private secretary. She was told to prepare to appoint a replacement premier. The situation was complicated by the fact that Winstons successor, Foreign Secretary Anthony Eden, was also incapacitated as he awaited a gall bladder operation. Several senior ministers were informed but no one least of all the Queen breathed a word. This meant that, for a few days, the country was without a fully competent Prime Minister. The then-Princess Elizabeth greets Churchill at a Guildhall reception in London in March 1950 The Queen leaves 10 Downing Street after a dinner, where she was guest of honour, the day before Churchill resigned as prime minister Winston only found out that Jock had disobeyed him when he received a letter from the Queen, written in her hand, on June 26. Never one to unleash her raw emotions, she was characteristically understated: I am so sorry to hear that you have not been feeling too well these last few days. I do hope it is not serious and that you will be quite recovered in a very short time. Although seriously impaired, Winston responded immediately, suggesting hed soon be out and about and would remain in post until the autumn, at which point Eden would be well enough to take over. It was the first time hed broached the topic of his retirement with the Queen. As she must have been aware, there was now a growing chorus of voices calling for him to go many of them within his own Conservative Party. But there was no established precedent for getting rid of an ailing and ageing Prime Minister he was then 78 especially one so highly regarded by his sovereign. At this stage only the Queen, speaking to him in strict privacy during their weekly briefing, could have nudged him towards resignation, but she was too young and inexperienced. In any case, his recovery was remarkable. By August 25, he was well enough to preside at a Cabinet meeting. That month he also met the Queen at Royal Lodge, Windsor, where he told her he planned to resign after making a speech at the Conservative Party conference in October. Keen to maintain their friendship, she invited him to accompany her to St Leger races at Doncaster in September, followed by a trip to Balmoral. Both his doctor and his wife, knowing what a frail condition Winston was in, were staunchly opposed. But he dug in his heels. This was a personal invitation from the Queen! It was a mark of Churchills great affection for her that the visit went ahead in the face of vigorous disapproval. In the end, the trip proved a sparkling tonic. When the Queen went to the banister of the royal enclosure at Doncaster to wave to the cheering crowds, Winston stayed politely in the background. But when the Queen returned, she told him: They want you. So Winston took his turn in the window, basking in the fact that as he wrote to Clemmie I got as much cheering as she did. From the races, he took the royal train to Balmoral where he accompanied the Queen to Sunday service at Crathie Kirk. Outside, long avenues of people crowded to catch a glimpse of him as he strode out of the church and they raised their hands, waving and cheering, which I was told had never happened before. All this public adulation lifted his spirits and injected him with renewed confidence. After a rousing reception at the Conservative Party conference, he decided not to retire yet after all. Immediately afterwards, his energies waned substantially: he was sleeping in, feeling sickly and in low spirits. Despite his ailments, however, his obsession with the Queen was as strong as ever. Ignoring his doctors advice, he attended a meeting of Trinity House, the general lighthouse and pilotage authority. Lord Moran complained in his diary: It was no use trying to persuade him to give up the [event] when the Queen was going. That November, she set out with Philip on a lengthy tour of the Commonwealth and Winston used that as an excuse to delay bowing out until her return in May 1954. Or so he promised his inner circle. Nothing could dissuade Churchill from travelling to London airport to see off the monarch, though his doctor feared hed be unsteady on his feet. He took up his position on the Tarmac at around seven oclock, waiting for over an hour with his fellow ministers for the Queens limousine. Before boarding her plane, it was Churchill she turned to for her final parting words. Exactly one week later, on a boat in the mid-Pacific, she sent him a cheerful telegram on his 79th birthday. On her return in May, he behaved like an excited schoolboy, insisting on intercepting the royal yacht Britannia off the Isle of Wight and then sailing up the Thames with the Queen. Churchill steps into his car on July 26, 1945, to travel to Buckingham Palace to hand in his resignation to King George VI Queen Elizabeth in the Throne Room at Buckingham Palace seven Commonwealth premiers and two finance ministers during the Economies Conference in London in December 1952 As his private secretary said dryly, even mounting the gangway had been quite a remarkable achievement. Three days after Churchill lurched up Britannias gangway, he gave a formal address in the Commons, praising the Queens stamina and poise and the limitless reinforcement which this Royal journey may have brought to the health, the wisdom, the sanity and hopefulness of mankind. Those close to him remarked that he was more enamoured than ever. In June he even cut short a Cabinet meeting so he could join the Queen at the Epsom Derby. A few months later, he turned 80. What on earth, the Queen must have wondered, could she give the grand old man? In the end, she presented him with a set of silver wine coasters, engraved with the initials of the entire royal clan: the Queen, Prince Philip, the Queen Mother, Princess Margaret, the Duke and Duchess of Gloucestershire, Princess Mary (the Princess Royal), Duchess Marina of Kent, Princess Alice and the Earl of Athlone. As the cherry on the cake, she offered Winston the chance to breed her champion horse Aureole with a mare of his own. Time rolled on, and there was still no retirement date. In February 1955, the Queen hosted a dinner for Commonwealth prime ministers at Buckingham Palace. It was just the kind of occasion Churchill enjoyed but he was shocked when the former Labour Prime Minister Clement Attlee tottered up to him and, quivering, fainted in his arms. Eight years Attlees senior, and in less than perfect health himself, the PM recognised this as an ill omen. It was time to bow out. He began to make concrete plans at last to pass on the torch to Anthony Eden, now fully recovered. Even with these plans in motion, Churchill was tempted to try to stay in power for a little longer. At the end of March, he had an audience with the Queen and told her he was considering delaying his resignation. He asked if she would mind and, astonishingly whether out of deference to his age and position or from familial affection she responded that she would not. After further reflection, though, he stuck to the original course, writing to her private secretary Michael Adeane on the morning of March 31 to ask him to inform the Queen of his decision to resign on April 5. Adeane replied the same day with the Queens carefully worded acknowledgment: Her Majesty said at once she was most grateful to you telling her privately of your intention and that I was to emphasise in replying that she fully understood why it was that when she received you last Tuesday there still seemed to be some uncertainty about the future. The Queen made sure to seal the deal, giving her approval to Winstons announcement in the constitutionally correct manner: She added that I must tell you that though she recognised your wisdom in taking the decision which you had, she felt the greatest personal regrets and that she would especially miss the weekly audiences which she has found so instructive and, if one can say so of State matters, so entertaining. The cornerstone event of Winstons departure was a dinner at No 10, with the Queen as guest of honour. When everyone had left, a deflated Churchill went up to his bedroom with his private secretary, who recorded that the PM sat on his bed, still wearing his Garter, Order of Merit and knee-breeches. When he remained silent for several minutes, Jock Colville assumed it was because he was overcome with emotion until Winston blurted out: I dont believe Anthony [Eden] can do it. The Queen chats happily to Churchill as with Prince Charles and Princess Anne she awaits the arrival of the Queen Mother The Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh lead mourners inside St. Paul's Cathedral during Churchill's funeral Queen Elizabeth took it on herself to initiate the plans for Churchill's funeral, wanting the commemoration to reflect Churchills status in national and imperial history It was too late to recant. Next evening the PM donned his frock coat and top hat and made his way to the Palace to ask his sovereigns permission to resign. It was then that the Queen offered him a Dukedom. Aware it was her last audience with her mentor, she also raised a subject close to her heart. Pulling a letter from Churchill off her desk, she referred to a passage in which he said the Queens accession was the most direct mark of Gods favour hed ever witnessed. What did he mean by God, she asked him? Winstons answer is not recorded, but the mere fact that shed asked the question was a sign of how close theyd become. After his resignation, the Queen wrote him a personal note. It would be useless to pretend that either he [Eden] or any of those successors who may one day follow him in office will ever, for me, be able to hold the place of my first Prime Minister. Years later she admitted Winston had been her favourite PM. During his retirement, he was treated like an auxiliary member of the Royal Family. On his birthdays, well-wishers would gather outside his home at Hyde Park Gate to sing happy birthday. On his rare excursions to church, the congregation would stand when he rose to leave. His illnesses were marked by official and semi-official bulletins. There were 17 announcements regarding his condition for a fever that lasted 11 days. While holidaying in France, he was struck by severe bronchial pneumonia. The Queen was shaken: for the first time she fully realised Winston was not as immortal as he seemed and he could die at any moment. She took it on herself to initiate the plans for his funeral, wanting the commemoration to reflect Churchills status in national and imperial history. Nothing short of a state funeral, with a lying-in-state at Westminster Hall, would suffice. He would be only the third Prime Minister, after the Duke of Wellington and William Gladstone, to be so honoured. Despite her firm backing, however, there was serious push-back to the plan, codenamed Operation Hope Not not least because Churchill was a commoner. At a Garter meeting in 1959, Palace courtiers voiced concerns that if Churchills funeral was on the scale the Queen suggested, it would overshadow funerals given to members of the Royal Family. There was also concern about inviting members of the French and US armed forces, as well as civil defence and Commonwealth officers, to march in the ceremony. Not only would it be difficult to know where to stop but the procession would be longer than that of a reigning monarchs. When Churchill heard about the plan for a State funeral he told his private secretary to ensure there were lots of marching bands. There were nine on the day. In the last years of Churchills life, communication between himself and the Queen grew more infrequent but also more informal. In May 1960, Winston sent the Queen his painting of the Wiltshire town of Wilton, where he had attended Whitsuntide so often the locals referred to the holiday as Winstontide. The Queen wrote back: Philip and I are so thrilled to have one of your pictures for our gallery. What a truly lovely place Wilton is and you have captured the feeling and pleasure of being there so well that all can feel it too. He was also invited that month to Princess Margarets wedding to Antony Armstrong-Jones. Churchill suffered a serious stroke in January 1964 and died just over a year later. The Queen immediately sent her condolences to Clementine: The news of Sir Winston Churchills death caused inexpressible grief to me and my husband the whole world is the poorer by the loss of his many-sided genius while the survival of this country and the sister nations of the Commonwealth in the face of the greatest danger that has ever threatened them will be a perpetual memorial to his leadership, his vision and his indomitable courage. As tributes poured in, the Queen launched Operation Hope Not, for which she needed approval from both Houses of Parliament. She sent a message to each chamber, saying she was confident in the support of Parliament for the due acknowledgement of our debt of gratitude and in thanksgiving for the life and example of a national hero. Her plan was quickly ratified. During Winstons lying-in-state, over three days, more than 320,000 people filed past his body to pay their respects. One of these was the Queen, breaking with precedent and becoming the first reigning British sovereign to publicly pay such homage to a commoner. Along with Prince Philip, Princess Margaret and Lord Snowdon, she quietly entered the hall through the west door and stood next to the catafalque for five minutes as the other mourners filed past, hardly noticing the gathered Royals who stood respectfully off to one side. At 9.45 on Saturday morning, as Churchills coffin was removed from Westminster, Big Ben sounded the quarter hour and fell silent. It would remain silent, as it had been for so many dark days of war, for the duration of the funeral for the man who saw Britain to victory. Millions watched the ceremony on TV, with Richard Dimbleby guiding viewers through the service. Outside the abbey, the coffin was wrapped in a Union flag with Winstons Garter regalia placed on top, before it was loaded on to the same gun carriage that had transported Queen Victorias remains 65 years before. As his body made its way from Westminster to St Pauls Cathedral, half a million grateful Britons stood in the frigid January morning to pay their final respects. When the coffin arrived at St Pauls, everything was in its place including, remarkably, the Queen. She had decided, as Churchills daughter Mary Soames recorded, to waive all custom and precedence, which dictated that she ought to arrive last, preferring to await the arrival of her greatest subject. Adapted from Winston And The Windsors, by Andrew Morton, to be published by Michael OMara on October 9, 24.99. Andrew Morton 2025. To order a copy for 21.25 (offer valid to 18/10/2025; UK P&P free on orders over 25) go to mailshop.co.uk/books or call 020 3176 2937. This week, thousands of TikTok users were whipped into an apocalyptic frenzy as viral predictions of the 'Rapture' spread online. However, rather embarrassingly for the preachers who predicted it, the supposed End of Days has now come and gone without incident. Now, experts have revealed what the apocalypse will really look like. And the bleak reality of human extinction is far more depressing than any story of Biblical annihilation. From the deadly threat of rogue AI or nuclear war to the pressing risk of engineered bioweapons, humans themselves are creating the biggest risks to our own survival. Dr Thomas Moynihan, a researcher at Cambridge University's Centre for the Study of Existential Risk, told Daily Mail: 'Apocalypse is an old idea, which can be traced to religion, but extinction is a surprisingly modern one, resting on scientific knowledge about nature. 'When we talk about extinction, we are imagining the human species disappearing and the rest of the universe indefinitely persisting, in its vastness, without us. 'This is very different from what Christians imagine when they talk about Rapture or Judgement Day.' While TikTok evangelists predicted the rapture would come this week, apocalypse experts say that human life is much more likely to be destroyed by our own actions than any outside force - such as nuclear war (AIgenerated impression) Nuclear war Scientists who study the destruction of humanity talk about what they call 'existential risks' threats that could wipe out the human species. Ever since humans learned to split the atom, one of the most pressing existential risks has been nuclear war. During the Cold War, fears of nuclear war were so high that governments around the world were seriously planning for life after the total annihilation of society. The risk posed by nuclear war dropped after the fall of the Soviet Union, but experts now think the threat is spiking. Earlier this year, the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists moved the Doomsday Clock one second closer to midnight, citing an increased risk of a nuclear exchange. The nine countries which possess nuclear arms hold a total of 12,331 warheads, with Russia alone holding enough bombs to destroy seven per cent of urban land worldwide. However, the worrying prospect is that humanity could actually be wiped out by only a tiny fraction of these weapons. The nine nations with nuclear weapons currently hold 12,331 nuclear warheads, which could lead to millions of deaths (AIgenerated impression) The five most likely causes of human extinction Rogue AI Nuclear war Engineered bioweapons Climate change Natural disasters or asteroid strike Advertisement Dr Moynihan says: 'Newer research shows that even a relatively regional nuclear exchange could lead to worldwide climate fallout. 'Debris from fires in city centres would loom into the stratosphere, where it would dim sunlight, causing crop failures. 'Something similar led to the demise of the dinosaurs, though that was caused by an asteroid strike.' Studies have shown that a socalled 'nuclear winter' would actually be far worse than Cold War predictions suggested. Using modern climate models, researchers have shown that a nuclear exchange would plunge the planet into a 'nuclear little ice age' lasting thousands of years. Reduced sunlight would plunge global temperatures by up to 10C (18F) for nearly a decade, devastating the world's agricultural production. Modelling suggests that a small nuclear exchange between India and Pakistan would deprive 2.5 billion people of food for at least two years. Meanwhile, a global nuclear war would kill 360 million civilians immediately and lead to the starvation of 5.3 billion people in just two years following the first explosion. Even a limited nuclear exchange could plunge the world into a 'little nuclear ice age' which would drop global temperatures by 10C (18F) for thousands of years (AIgenerated impression) Dr Moynihan says: 'Some argue it's hard to draw a clear line from this to the eradication of all humans, everywhere, but we don't want to find out.' Engineered bioweapons Just like the threat of nuclear arms, another likely way that humanity could come to an end is through the release of an engineered bioweapon. Since 1973, when scientists created the first genetically modified bacteria, humanity has been steadily increasing its capacity to make deadly diseases. These manmade diseases pose a significantly greater threat to our existence than anything found in nature. Otto Barten, founder of the Existential Risk Observatory, told the Daily Mail: 'We have a lot of experience with natural pandemics, and these have not led to human extinction in the last 300,000 years. 'Therefore, although natural pandemics remain a very serious risk, this is very likely not going to cause our complete demise. 'However, manmade pandemics might be engineered specifically to maximise effectiveness, in a way that doesn't occur in nature.' Natural pandemics are unlikely to lead to human extinction, but genetically engineered variants could be much more deadly (AIgenerated impression) Experts are concerned that the tools needed to engineer deadly pathogens are becoming more accessible and could fall into the wrong hands (AIgenerated impression) Currently, the means to create such deadly diseases are limited to a handful of states that wouldn't benefit from unleashing a deadly plague. However, scientists have warned that improving technologies like AI mean that this ability is likely to fall into the hands of more and more people. If terrorists gain the ability to create deadly bioweapons, they could release a pathogen that would spread wildly out of control and eventually lead to humanity's extinction. What would be left behind would be a world that looks like it does now, but with all traces of living humans wiped away. Dr Moynihan adds: 'Extinction is, in this way, the total frustration of any kind of moral order; again, within a universe that persists, silently, without us.' Rogue artificial intelligence Experts currently believe that the biggest danger humanity is creating for itself is artificial intelligence. Scientists who study existential risk think there is anywhere between a 10 and 90 per cent chance that humanity will not survive the advent of superintelligent AI. One of the biggest risks to humanity is the creation of a rogue AI which becomes 'unaligned' with humanity's interests (AIgenerated impression) What is a rogue AI? Some AI experts are concerned that AI might soon reach a state called superintelligence, meaning it is more intelligent than the combined efforts of all humans. Once this happens, the AI might start to develop its own goals. If those goals don't align with what humans want, this is called an unaligned or 'rogue' AI. A rogue AI might not be openly hostile to humans, but if humanity's extinction is more convenient for its goals, it could eliminate all living humans. Advertisement The big concern is that a sufficiently intelligent AI will become 'unaligned', meaning its goals and ambitions will cease to line up with the interests of humanity. Dr Moynihan says: 'If an AI becomes smarter than us and also becomes agential that is, capable of conjuring its own goals and acting on them.' If an AI becomes agentic, it doesn't even need to be openly hostile to humans for it to wipe us out. When an agentic AI has a goal that differs from what humans want, the AI would naturally see humans turning it off as a hindrance to that goal and do everything it can to prevent that. The AI might be totally indifferent to humans, but simply decides that the resources and systems that keep humanity alive would be better used pursuing its own ambitions. Experts don't know exactly what those goals might be or how the AI might try to pursue them, which is exactly what makes an unaligned AI so dangerous. 'The problem is that it's impossible to predict the actions of something immeasurably smarter than you,' says Dr Moynihan. 'It's hard to imagine how we could anticipate, intercept, or prevent the AI's plans to implement them.' Experts aren't sure how an AI would chose to wipe out humanity, which is what makes them so dangerous - but it could involved usurping our own computerised weapons or nuclear launch systems (AIgenerated impression) Is climate change an existential risk? Existential risk experts say that climate change could lead to human extinction, but that this is extremely unlikely. The only way climate change could kill every human on Earth is if global warming continues to be much stronger than scientists currently predict. The bigger risk is that climate change might exacerbate other risks. For example, climate change will lead to food shortages and displace millions of climate refugees as parts of the world become uninhabitable. That could lead to conflicts, which could escalate into nuclear war. Advertisement Another big issue is that experts don't know exactly how an AI might go about wiping out humanity. Some experts have suggested that an AI might take control of existing weapon systems or nuclear missiles, manipulate humans into carrying out its orders, or design its own bioweapons. However, the scarier prospect is that AI might destroy us in a way we literally cannot conceive of. Dr Moynihan says: 'The general fear is that a smarterthanhuman AI would be able to manipulate matter and energy with far more finesse than we can muster. 'Drone strikes would have been incomprehensible to the earliest human farmers: the laws of physics haven't changed in the meantime, just our comprehension of them. 'Regardless, if something like this is possible, and ever does come to pass, it would probably unfold in ways far stranger than anyone currently imagines. It won't involve metallic, humanoid robots with guns and glowing scarlet eyes.' Climate change Mr Barten says: 'Climate change is also an existential risk, meaning it could lead to the complete annihilation of humanity, but experts believe this has less than a one in a thousand chance of happening.' In an unlikely but terrifying scenario, a runaway greenhouse effect could cause all water on Earth to evaporate and escape into space, leaving the planet dry and barren (AIgenerated impression) However, there are a few unlikely scenarios in which climate change could lead to human extinction. For example, if the world becomes hot enough, large amounts of water vapour could escape into the upper atmosphere in a phenomenon known as the moist greenhouse effect. There, intense solar radiation would break the water down into oxygen and hydrogen, which is light enough to easily escape into space. At the same time, water vapour in the atmosphere would weaken the mechanisms which usually prevent gases from escaping. This would lead to a runaway cycle in which all water on Earth escapes into space, leaving the planet dry and totally uninhabitable. The good news is that, although climate change is making our climate hotter, the moist greenhouse effect won't kick in unless the climate gets much hotter than scientists currently predict. The bad news is that the moist greenhouse effect will almost certainly occur in about 1.5 billion years when the sun starts to expand. A respected congressman has claimed that advanced alien beings could be hiding out in 'five or six' underwater UFO bases right off the US coast. Tennessee congressman Tim Burchett, a member of the House Oversight Committee overseeing UFO reports, drew massive attention on social media after saying that he believed there were alien 'entities' currently living in deep-water areas on Earth. The September 17 clip posted on X has already been viewed more than 1.9 million times. During the sidewalk interview with journalist Matt Laslo, reposted online by a UFO researcher who goes by the pseudonym Red Panda Koala, Burchett suggested that advanced alien beings or civilizations may have been hiding in Earth's oceans for generations. He added that there have been frequent sightings of unidentified craft around five or six specific deep-sea areas, which he found significant given how little is known about the ocean compared to the moon's surface. The congressman also noted that US Navy personnel have reported chasing these underwater craft that move at extraordinary speeds and far surpass the abilities of current US military technology. Despite these claims, no verifiable physical evidence, such as artifacts or clear footage of these underwater craft, has been publicly presented to confirm the existence of alien bases. Skeptics have argued that the reliance on anecdotal reports from naval personnel and the lack of peer-reviewed scientific data casts significant doubt on the claims made during recent congressional hearings on UFO phenomena. Tennessee congressman Tim Burchett (pictured) suggested in a viral clip online that there are alien beings in secret underwater bases near the US (Stock Image) UFO researcher Dr Michael Salla said these bases are believed to be in a region of the Atlantic near the Bahamas Following the explosive revelations, Dr Michael Salla, an author and researcher focused on extraterrestrial phenomena, revealed where it's believed these UFO bases may be, singling out a region of the Atlantic Ocean near the Bahamas. He added that he's also spoken to credible whistleblowers, including senior military and executive branch officials, who confirm the existence of underwater bases and advanced craft. Dr Salla highlighted that the US Navy operates a top-secret underwater facility he likened to Area 51 called AUTEC, which stands for the Atlantic Undersea Testing and Evaluation Center, right in this region of the Atlantic. 'Just to the right of it is Tongue of the Ocean, which is a very deep part of the ocean there in the Bahamas. It drops off immediately around 3,000 feet,' Salla said while appearing on the Redacted podcast on September 19. 'So that's ideal for a submarine, but it's also a place where people have seen many UFOs, many underwater craft coming into and leaving the water. So, there have been a lot of UFO sightings in that area,' he revealed. The UFO researcher noted that he had interviewed two eyewitnesses who claimed that they had visited these secret bases, including one who was a US Army whistleblower who used the pseudonym 'JP.' The whistleblower claimed he was on a mission where he was taken by a Blackhawk helicopter to an ocean platform, then boarded a high-tech submarine crewed by tall, Nordic-looking extraterrestrials. The submarine, capable of space travel, took him to an underwater city under a dome, resembling Dubai, with a large white pyramid. The mission involved retrieving an artifact, but no physical evidence of this mission has ever been produced. Congressman Eric Burlison of Missouri recently revealed video of a US military drone striking an orb-shaped UFO with a missile, which bounced off and did not stop the craft Despite Burchett and Salla's lack of tangible evidence, there has been growing interest and testimony from credible sources, including military personnel at congressional hearings, suggesting that UFOs and extraterrestrial beings have visited Earth. A recent congressional hearing on September 9 featured new whistleblowers who shared their experiences with UFOs, including a video showing an orb-like object surviving a missile strike and splitting into four parts they kept flying. 'We have naval personnel telling me we have these sightings, these underwater craft they're chasing that go hundreds of miles an hour, and the best we got is something that does maybe a little under forty miles an hour,' Burchett said in the interview with Laslo. 'So I got a lot of questions about that stuff.' MORE: What is the Fujiwhara Effect? Hurricane forecasters warn rare event is nearing East Coast Hurricane Humberto has become a Category 5 storm with devastating winds reaching 160 mph as it nears the East Coast. The National Hurricane Center (NHC) announced that the major storm reached this most severe level of tropical cyclone Saturday afternoon, surging by more than 50 mph in the last day alone. Humberto is expected to remain a major hurricane through Tuesday, when it is projected to reach its closest point to the US, close enough to deliver intense surf, flooding, and deadly rip currents along East Coast beaches. Humberto's 160 mph sustained winds are considered 'catastrophic,' possessing the ability to damage structures, infrastructure, and the environment, even if the storm remains at sea. Matt Devitt of WINK News in Southwest Florida revealed that this is first time in 92 years that there have been multiple Category 5 hurricanes in back-to-back years during the Atlantic hurricane season. Humberto joined Hurricane Erin, which also did not make landfall this summer, but did bring coastal flooding to the mid-Atlantic. However, forecasters are more concerned with another storm system now feared to strengthen into a hurricane right over the US mainland. NHC has been tracking Tropical Depression Nine, which they believe will turn into Tropical Storm Imelda by Sunday. Hurricane Humberto (pictured) strengthened into a Category 5 storm on Saturday afternoon Tropical Depression Nine, which would be named Imelda when it becomes a tropical storm, is projected to threaten the Southeast next week Saturday morning, 'Imelda' developed into a tropical depression, the first stage of a tropical cyclone, where a low-pressure area forms with and relatively low winds. It's currently forming off the coast of Cuba with sustained winds of 35 mph, and meteorologists predict that the storm will move straight up the East Coast, passing Florida, Georgia, and the Carolinas. The latest forecast from NHC officials warn that Imelda will turn into a hurricane right as it approaches the Georgia and South Carolina coasts. 'I can't rule out a hurricane at landfall along with significant flooding as it could slow down or even stall,' Devitt warned in a post on X on Friday. Current spaghetti models for the storm show Imelda is expected to reach the Southeast coast and then join Hurricane Humberto out in the Atlantic, turning away from land at the last moment. However, some storm tracks warn that a hurricane landfall in either Florida or Georgia is still a possibility. A spaghetti model shows the different possible paths a tropical storm or hurricane might take, based on predictions from multiple weather computer programs. Each line represents one model's guess about where the storm could go. If the lines are close together, it means most models agree on the path, and the prediction is more certain. Storm tracks show Imelda may make landfall at multiple points along the East Coast, from Florida to the Carolinas Hurricane Humberto is projected to remain at sea and not make landfall in the US Currently, meteorologists do not expect Hurricane Humberto to reach the US coastline, adding it will eventually turn out to sea like Hurricane Gabrielle did earlier in September. Meanwhile, AccuWeather senior meteorologist Chad Merrill told the Daily Mail that Imelda's 'legacy will be flooding.' The veteran forecaster predicted that Imelda could severely impact the Carolinas next week, bringing 'heavy rain and severe flooding' to areas ravaged by Hurricane Helene a year ago. Moreover, hurricane forecasters have been bracing for a potential Fujiwhara Effect, which takes place when two major cyclones get so close to each other that they start to interact. The storms might rotate around a common point between them, like two hurricanes doing a slow dance. In some cases, a stronger storm, like Humberto, might absorb a weaker one, creating an even more massive weather event than either storm would have been on their own. If they're similar in size and strength, however, they might repel each other and get thrown in completely different directions that forecasters won't be able to project beforehand. The combination of Hurricane Humberto and future Tropical Storm Imelda is expected to bring potentially devastating amounts of rain, ringing alarms for 'life- threatening flooding.' Humberto has deescalated to a category four storm but is still barreling toward the east coast with sustained winds of 155mph, according to the National Hurricane Center. NHC forecasters are more watchful of Tropical Depression Nine intensifying into Tropical Storm Imelda, fearing the storm system may strengthen into a hurricane right as it approaches the Georgia and South Carolina coasts. 'Rainfall of this magnitude can lead to widespread life-threatening flooding, especially if the storm slows down or stalls,' AccuWeather Chief Meteorologist Jonathan Porter said. North and South Carolina southeastern coastal areas could get five to 10 inches of rain through the first days of October, and could see upward to 16 inches. Specific locations that received more than 10 inches could lead to 'scattered pockets of flash flooding,' according to the Weather Prediction Center. Between two and four inches of rain could fall from eastern Georgia to Central Virginia. This GOES-19 GeoColor satellite image taken Sunday, Sept. 28, 2025 and provided by NOAA, shows weather systems in the tropical Atlantic Ocean Humberto has deescalated to a category four storm but is still barreling toward the east coast with sustained winds of 155mph, according to the National Hurricane Center AccuWeather senior meteorologist Chad Merrill told the Daily Mail on Saturday that Imelda's 'legacy will be flooding'. Imelda is predicted to develop into a Tropical Storm later Sunday, and a hurricane by late Monday or Tuesday, the AP reported. Humberto is expected to remain a major hurricane through Tuesday and is projected to reach close enough along the US coast to deliver intense surf, flooding, and deadly rip currents along East Coast beaches. Meteorologists do not expect Humberto to reach the US coastline, adding it will eventually turn out to sea like Hurricane Gabrielle did earlier in September. Humberto was located about 585 miles south of Bermuda and moving west-northwest at 13 mph, according to AP. A tropical storm watch was issued for parts of Florida's east coast with forceful winds by Sept 29. North and South Carolina southeastern coastal areas could get five to 10 inches of rain through the first days of October, and could see upward to 16 inches The Bahamas are threatened with heavy rainfall and flash flooding, with some nearby islands already under the tropical storm warning The Bahamas are threatened with heavy rainfall and flash flooding, with some nearby islands already under the tropical storm warning. The unusual setups of the two weather systems have hurricane forecasters bracing for a potential Fujiwhara Effect, which takes place when two major cyclones get so close to each other that they start to interact. The storms might rotate around a common point between them, like two hurricanes doing a slow dance. In some cases, a stronger storm, like Humberto, might absorb a weaker one, creating an even more massive weather event than either storm would have been on their own. North and South Carolina governors declared a state of emergency, urging residents to closely monitor the storm and 'begin making preparations'. There's something quite magical about being surrounded by water.' Tom Godfrey, a born-and-bred Yorkshireman, swapped out British grey skies for the cobbled streets of Venice in July this year - and says he hasn't looked back. 'I don't really know how to describe the feeling, but you do pinch yourself every now and again and think, how is this place real?' he says. That other-worldly, magical perception of Venice is what has categorised the city as an expensive, tourist-filled hotspot. It's certainly not known for its budget-friendly appeal. But when, at just 25, Tom took up a position working as an intern at the Peggy Guggenheim Collection art museum in the Italian city, he found the opposite to be true. 'Of course', Tom says, you can do the touristy Venice. Or you can do the side of Venice where your bill at the end of the night is 250 (218). 'But you can also do the sort of Venice that Im doing - I'm eating nicely, drinking 3 (2.60) Aperols. During a break from his PhD at Cambridge University, Tom has been discovering the reality of living in a city thats known for drawing in visitors from across the world. Tom Godfrey, a born-and-bred Yorkshireman, swapped out British grey skies for the cobbled streets of Venice in July At the age of just 25, Tom took up a position working as an intern at an art museum in the Italian city He shares his endeavours on his Instagram @thomasrgodfrey to his 32,000 followers, where he's been posting photos and videos of his new life in the Italian city known for its beauty, art, history, food, drink, culture - and tourism. As Tom explains, the city is full of opportunities to spend a fortune to have a luxurious holiday. But, for people like him, this sort of lifestyle is unaffordable. Luckily, he says, it's easy to do Venice on a budget - if you know where to look, that is. 'Venice is a pretty good place to live, because whilst there are very expensive places, it is still a lot cheaper than living in London,' Tom adds. 'Especially when you know where to go. The surprise I had coming here was that I'd been to Venice before and I loved it, but I did have this feeling that it was a bit like Disneyland, and that it felt inauthentic. And this experience has completely changed my mind on that, because I've been staying in parts of town where, for whatever reason, tourists don't really venture. You've got to remember that a lot of the tourists who come here are here for a day.' He adds: People are very aware of the exploitation of tourism, but it's a double-edged sword, because they also need the tourists to be able to keep it afloat financially, no pun intended.' Indeed, around 30 million tourists visit the city every year. During a break from his PhD at Cambridge University, Tom's discovering the reality of living in a city thats known for drawing in tourists from across the world A week before coming here, I thought I would enjoy it, but probably be very ready to leave by the end, just because it's such a touristy city,' Tom divulges. 'But now, I could definitely see myself living here. Rather than being swamped by hoards of visitors, Tom says hes found it easy to discover parts of the city that are largely untouched by international visitors - and which, as a result, are much more affordable. Making Italian friends has allowed him to uncover the spots where he can eat well on a budget, and avoid the crowds, queues and pickpockets of famous areas such as Saint Marks Square and the Rialto bridge. He adds: It's not unaffordable, and that's something that surprised me, because I really expected to be going to bars every night and spending 12 (10) on a beer. It's way cheaper than England. Even the most expensive beers here are 6, which is like 5.20, which is more than you'd want to pay when you're in Italy. But compared to London, it's almost half the price now. A cheap beer in Venice is between 3.50 and 4 (3-3.40). Osteria Al Squero and Corner Pub offer 3 (2.60) for Aperol in the city - and the latter also has bottled beer for 3 or draft for up to 5 (4.40). Tom also recommends Il Mercante and Chet Bar for a slightly elevated ambiance for just 5 per Aperol. Al Chioschetto on Zattere also typically serves wine and spritz for 3.50 and 4 (3-3.40). His favourite dinner spot, Pizza al Volo, offers 8 (7) a pizza - and, as Tom explains, a lot of the pizzas in Venice aren't really that good, because they're done for a tourist market. But this one, being on Campo Santa Margherita, where the students live, is done for Italians. He also recommends Gelateria Nico, where a takeaway ice cream is around 3 (2.60) for two scoops. His daily espresso - which, like the Italian gentlemen, he drinks standing up at the coffee bar - only sets him back 1.50 (1.30). Significantly less than the coffee prices upwards of 4 we're used to seeing in the UK. His job offers him a monthly stipend of 1,000 (870), which easily covers his rent and expenses. His employer compiled a list of reasonable rentals between 300 - 400 (260-350) and landlords to keep down living costs - otherwise renting can cost around 1,500 (1,300) each month in Venice. Tom will be returning to the UK soon to finish his PhD, but he has his sights set on a Venice return Aside from cheaper living, there are plenty of other perks. Tom says: It feels safer than even the safest places I've lived in the UK, and I think that's partially by nature of the fact it's an island that's quite expensive for locals to live in. You don't get people who are trying to exploit tourists, because it costs them money to actually get to the town. Theres also the weather, of course. Hell be coming back to the UK soon to finish his studies, but Tom has his sights set on a Venice return. He says: I'm not inherently opposed to the UK, it's just that I love the pace of life here. We're finishing work at 6pm, heading over to a bar. I found in this part of town at least, where the Venetians actually live, they'll engage in conversation with you. They're really friendly, and they're interested to know what you're doing. The drinking culture is completely different to the UK. It's not like Thursday night drinks where people are getting absolutely wasted and turning up to work the next day with a headache. He also loves the citys culture, as theres always something going on, from masked balls to the Venice Film Festival, exhibitions on Leonardo da Vinci and musical displays. When asked if he had any regrets about moving to Venice, Tom responds with uncharacteristic brevity: None. Rating: (TWO STARS) The House of Guinness is a period drama created by Steven Knight (Peaky Blinders), set in Dublin and New York in the 19th century, and it follows the fortunes of this powerful, famous family after the death of patriarch Sir Benjamin Guinness. Juicy, you would think. Billed as a cross between Succession and Downton Abbey how could it even fail? Or be boring? Well, ahem, how do I break this to you? Each episode (there are eight) opens with what amounts to a disclaimer. The disclaimer tells us: This is a fiction based on true stories. It would have to make you wonder what you were watching. I spent half my time Googling whether the Guinness family did have violent run-ins with the Fenians (no) or were subject to arson and blackmail (no) or whether they employed a sexy fixer who would one day be played by James Norton (no). The House of Guinness is a period drama created by Steven Knight (Peaky Blinders), set in Dublin and New York in the 19th century, and it follows the fortunes of this powerful, famous family after the death of patriarch Sir Benjamin Guinness (pictured Ann Skelly) Left to right: Fionn O'Shea as Benjamin, Louis Partridge as Edward, Anthony Boyle as Arthur and Emily Fairn as Anne Guinness So what are we watching? A soap opera, and a lacklustre one at that? Thats what it felt like. We open in 1868 with the death of Sir Benjamin, who had built the brewery, founded by his father (I would have liked the story to start there) into a global success while bringing the family untold wealth. Sir Benjamin has four children. They are Arthur(Anthony Boyle), the eldest, Edward, (Louis Partridge) who is the most able, Anne (Emily Fairn), whose character may be the most interesting but is criminally neglected, and Benjamin (Fionn OShea), who is a drunk and is absent from the narrative for such long periods I often forgot he existed. However, as hes an annoying caricature, I did not much mind. We build to the reading of the will. Who has been left what? Will they all bevying for control? At each others throats? That was the expectation. That was the billing. But it never materialises. Arthur and Edward have been left the business to run together. Arthur doesnt want to go into the business. He wants to go into politics. But as Edward is happy to run it himself there is no friction there. Ann didnt expect to inherit significantly while Benjamin is God knows where. The drama series was billed as a cross between Succession and Downton Abbey The drama boasts Knight's trademark swagger, dark style and sweeping ambition, yet many have questioned whether it reaches too hard for atmosphere at the expense of substance (Niamh McCormack as Ellen Cochrane) Its hardly Succession, particularly when we also see how philanthropic the family are. And its hardly Downton Abbey either. It is lavish and the production values are tip-top but we dont even get a ball until episode three. We follow their individual lives via the soapy storylines. Will Edward marry the right girl now hes fallen in love with the wrong one? Will Arthur be outed as gay? (Arthur was probably gay for real; that much is true). Will Anneactually, were not asked to care about Anne which is a pity, as she was far less one-note. Every character gets their own subplot. Rafferty, the sexy fixer played by James Norton, gets his own subplot. It also takes on the larger world and, in particular, the Fenians fight for an independent Ireland, bloating the narrative further. Cutting out subplots and the Fenians, and grounding the story in the daily rhythms of one family and their business, would have been more involving, and have made it tighter. It is slow, or at least it seems slow. Stuff happens but when youre not much interested in that stuff time can stand still. It has its moments. I perked up when Arthurs marriage had to be brokered. But these moments are few and far between. It also seems hackneyed. Or, to put it another way, its so Steven Knight it often feels like self-parody. We follow their individual lives via the soapy storylines. Will Edward marry the right girl now hes fallen in love with the wrong one? Will Arthur be outed as gay? (Louis Partridge as Edward pictured) It does have a decent cast, but they cant breathe life into such poorly written characters or breathe life into lines like: Hes an empty barrel on the tide of history' (James Norton as Sean Rafferty) Do we have modern pop and rock on the soundtrack? We do. Do we have neon intertitles? We do. Do we have the abundant use of the f-word? We do. Just when you think it cant get any more Steven Knight along comes a bout of violence in slo-mo. The rot probably first set in with Guy Ritchie but isnt all this a bit stale now? It does have a decent cast, but they cant breathe life into such poorly written characters or breathe life into lines like: Hes an empty barrel on the tide of history. Or: It seems no-one in our family can be with the one they truly love. Plus there are no real stakes to the proceedings. There is blackmail and arson and police raids on gay joints but nothing ever sticks. I wish it had played it straight, focusing more on the history of the company how did this porter take over the world, when there are plenty of other beers? as well as the events that actually happened. One last thing: irritatingly, the final episode end son a cliffhanger. Were not, it seems, done. Dan and Dani, long regarded as a harmonious duo during their weekly reviews of The Block houses, have had a heated clash over the design choices in several contestants' houses. The tension arose during Sunday's episode over the Back Of House areas, including laundries, pantries and mud rooms, when Dani raised concerns to her foreman husband about a potential hazard she feared could lead to serious injury. Dani warned that the risk in House 1, which featured platform stairs without a handrail, was so severe she could 'fall to her death'. However, Dan did not see eye to eye with his wife, which prompted a defensive response from him. But while Dani viewed the issue as a major design flaw, Dan disagreed and said he saw nothing fundamentally wrong with the design. 'Have you not walked down stairs before? It's not that hard,' Dan cheekily said, after his wife voiced her concern about falling. Dan and Dani, (both pictured) long regarded as a harmonious duo during their weekly reviews of The Block houses, had a heated clash over the design choices in several contestants' houses during Sunday's episode 'Don't patronise me,' Dani shot back, the disagreement underscoring a rare clash between the couple. The shock clash didn't stop there. In Han and Can's 'Tokyo Drift' garage, Dan called out the bold paint colouring as 'the wrong choice'. Dani admitted the overwhelming mix of hexagonal fluorescent lights, black-and-white tiles, and printed wallpaper was simply 'not to [her] taste', as the pair debated how things could - and should - have been done differently. Meanwhile, Britt and Taz's winning Back Of House room drew Dani's ire over one 'bizarre' design decision, leaving both judges scratching their heads. Elsewhere, House 5's European-style laundry also drew criticism from Dani, who argued it lacked sufficient functional space for a five-bedroom home. Even Robby and Mat's garage didn't escape scrutiny. The pair raised eyebrows at an unusual inclusion in the boys' revamped floorplan, adding to the week's controversial assessments. The tension arose over the Back Of House areas, including laundries, pantries and mud rooms, when Dani raised concerns to her foreman husband about a potential hazard she feared could lead to serious injury The fiery debate highlighted just how closely the pair are scrutinising every detail, leaving viewers keen to see which teams will impress - or fall short - in the coming weeks. The couple first hit national attention when they appeared on the 2012 series of The Block. The pair, who were dating at the time, took out second place honours and a profit of $448,000. The pair returned in 2013 for The Block All Stars series, walking away with third place and a profit of $220,000. Dan has since taken on a role as foreman on the show and they also host the Dan vs Dani series, critiquing each team's Room Reveals every week. The couple tied the knot in 2018 in an intimate ceremony on Victoria's Mornington Peninsula. It's the ugly divorce battle that's the talk of the Nashville music scene. Country star Zac Brown, 47, shocked fans in July when he announced he was engaged to southern jewelry designer Kendra Scott, 51, just two months after they went public with their relationship at The American Music Awards. The pair met through mutual friends; and it will be Brown's third marriage and Scott's fourth. Both are icons in the southern scene. Scott is beloved for her accessible jewelry designs often worn by young women going through sorority rush, while Brown has garnered thousands of fans from his seven hit albums with songs about fried chicken and falling in love. But while snaps of their fishing trips and red carpet PDA-fests might seem romantic, there's a major problem... the country crooner is still locked in a legal battle with his most recent ex-wife, actress Kelly Yazdi, 34. Now, an insider has exclusively told the Daily Mail how Brown really feels about Scott and what his failed relationship with Yazdi taught him, revealing: 'Three is a charm for Zac, and he intends for Kendra to be the love of his life.' Zac Brown shocked fans when he announced he was engaged to southern jewelry designer Kendra Scott mere months after they went public with their relationship by hitting the carpet at The American Music Awards, as seen on May 26, 2025 Brown was photographed in June 18, 2022, alongside his now estranged wife Kelly Yazdi, 34, who is outspoken about the end of their marriage Brown and Yazdi started dating in 2022 and tied the knot in August 2023. However, the relationship quickly soured and Brown filed for separation just four months into the marriage. According to court documents, Brown asked for an emergency temporary restraining order to prevent Yazdi from making any claims that could damage his image. A judge later denied the temporary restraining order against her but the legal drama didn't end there. The Hawaii Five-0 actress took to Instagram, writing: 'No one not even Zac Brown with all of his money, power, celebrity, and lawyers may silence my right to freely express myself through art or, although I have to date declined to do so publicly, to speak about the circumstances of our pending divorce.' 'Like Zac, I have lawyers too, and I will tell my truth in court where he has unnecessarily dragged me.' She added that it was 'ironic' that Brown filed this lawsuit but shared a music video that she claimed 'mocked' their wedding and painted her in a negative light, apparently referencing Zac Brown Band's 'Beautiful Drug' music video featuring Avicii. The music video showcases a brunette woman partying, and many fans thought it was a cheap shot at Yazdi as the women look eerily alike. In the video, the 'lookalike' model appears to be spiraling out in a bar as Brown sings about a 'death wish.' However, the Daily Mail understands the video was actually shot back in 2018 - before Brown had even met Yazdi. Thought their divorce was finalized in January this year, come July, Yazdi shared another post in response to 'some of the comments circling,' claiming that 'Zac has forced me into litigation so I have no choice but to defend myself against his circus.' The former couple went to trial on September 15 in Atlanta, after Brown filed additional lawsuits accusing Yazdi of violating her employment agreement with his company and engaging in 'corporate espionage.' Yazdi believes that her estranged husband took his future wife on the same dates and shared Instagram photos showing off the similarities The Chicken Fried hitmaker took both women to the Bahamas and serenaded them on the beach On September 18, the last day of the non-jury trial, Yazdi said she 'hadn't been paid through the prenuptial agreement.' She also explained that her 'salary ended' when she was 'terminated,' as she previously worked as executive Vice President of Zac Brown's Collective. During the trial, Yazdi brought up how she was upset after she didn't get to keep her G Wagon, or Mercedes-Benz G-Class, which she was given as a wedding gift. She also recalled her Instagram post and said people saw Scott traveling in Texas in what looked like her car. Yazdi also said she was unhappy because she felt she was 'being dragged through litigation' while he's 'flaunting his new relationship, throwing me under the bus in the press, and meanwhile launching his new album.' Now, the court is going to rule in December and the parties involved will make a decision if they want to continue their fight. This wasn't the first time Yazdi had shown she was upset about the re-gifted vehicle. In an Instagram post on July 28 Yazdi wrote: 'Everyday I wake up to some carefully crafted PR story highlighting the 'perfect love story', yet I'm still being buried in legal fees and told that if I even try to tell my side of the story, that somehow I'm in the wrong' Yazdi, who is based in Hawaii, shared side-by-side photos to prove Brown took her own the same exact dates as Scott. The copycat dates looked remarkably similar and included a romantic Bahamas serenade, an outdoorsy Alaska fishing trip, and making their red carpet debuts. 'The rumor mill has it that my custom green Mercedes-Benz wedding present was actually REGIFTED and has been seen in Austin, Texas,' Yazdi continued, as she believes he's given her car away to his future wife. In August, Yazdi returned to Instagram with what she called her 'biggest update yet' about the lawsuit, saying the judge 'made it very clear that celebrities do not get special treatment and are not above the law.' Yazdi added: 'The federal judge issued an order declaring that Zac's contracts those he's been using to try to silence me are UNENFORCEABLE as written.' 'His choice to drag me through lawsuits, while using his PR machine to spin false narratives about me, has only led to loss after loss for him,' Yazdi continued. Yazdi explained she wants Brown to 'drop his ridiculous lawsuit against me 'WITH Prejudice'. (meaning in legalese he cannot sue me again)' and reimburse her 'for the hundreds of thousands of dollars' she's spent on attorney fees. While Yazdi has no issue airing their dirty laundry on social media, Scott has stayed much quieter. She often posts inspirational quotes applauded by her followers on her personal page, urging women to 'lift each other up' and talking about how she's 'powered by purpose and faith.' This supremely messy divorce isn't the only drama Brown is dealing with. Yazdi shared an Instagram post where she shared side-by-side photos showing how similar her dates were to Brown and Scott The scale of his upcoming Las Vegas residency at the Sphere in December is coming with a hefty price tag. The musician even revealed to Us Weekly he's 'going into debt to make it happen,' adding that he wants 'to be among the names of the Grateful Dead and the Rolling Stones and the bands that take that lifelong career impact fan journey.' An insider told Daily Mail that Brown is ignoring the drama and focusing on his career, because what matters is 'making hits for himself and for others in the Nashville scene.' The source said Brown feels 'it would be three strikes and he'd be out if his relationship with Kendra fails, but he is happy to be as far away from Kelly as possible.' When the couple eventually weds, they'll be combining their families. Brown shares five children with his ex-wife, Shelly Brown, while Scott has two adult sons with her former husband, John Scott, and a young son with another ex, Matt Davis. The insider said that the country superstar 'holds a dear place for his first wife, because they have kids together and spent so much time with each other'. He plans to use what he learned from that relationship and his short marriage to make his next union 'as magical as possible,' they added. The Daily Mail reached out to Yazdi for comment. Australia's new wave of glossy entrepreneurs may look like overnight successes. But in the background of the Insta-famous brands run by the likes of the Geminders and the Bonds are family fortunes built in far less glamorous ways. While we don't suggest these young business visionaries owe their success solely to rich parents or spouses, it certainly helps to come from a packaging empire or be the scion of a home loan king. Kicking off our list is Emma Pillemer, daughter of high-profile fund manager Russel Pillemer. He's the co-founder of Pengana, one of Sydney's most powerful investment firms, alongside former prime minister Malcolm Turnbull. Emma, a graduate of the prestigious $45,000-per-year Moriah College, hasn't followed her father into finance, instead launching the edgy yet affordable jewellery brand Emma Pills, which is beloved by Gen Z shoppers. From A-list scandals and red carpet mishaps to exclusive pictures and viral moments, subscribe to the Daily Mail's new showbiz newsletter to stay in the loop. Emma Pillemer, daughter of high-profile Sydney fund manager Russel Pillemer, is the founder of edgy yet affordable jewellery brand Emma Pills, which is beloved by Gen Z shoppers Emma launched the label at the age of 19, choosing to invest 'several thousand' dollars she had set aside for her gap year into the fledgling company. Her parents matched the amount. As Emma previously revealed, they were 'very happy for me not to go partying in Europe and put it towards a business'. Within three months, her jewellery was being stocked in The Iconic, making her the youngest designer to feature on the website. And then there are Olivia and Kate Bond - the entrepreneurial sisters-in-law who married into the wealthy Bond dynasty. Olivia, a speech pathologist-turned-gemologist who owns a luxury diamond atelier, is married to Jeremy Bond, a fund manager and grandson of late magnate Alan Bond. In 2013, shortly after marrying Jeremy, she launched Olivia Bond Diamonds, a business known for its exclusive design service and high-end clientele. Kate, the wife of Jeremy's brother Banjo Bond, is the owner of Bond Street, a luxury sleepwear brand designed to be worn from night to day. She had been married to property executive Banjo for four years before launching Bond Street in 2021. Emma launched the label at the age of 19, choosing to invest 'several thousand' dollars she had set aside for her gap year into the fledgling company. Her parents matched the amount Olivia Bond (pictured), a speech pathologist-turned-gemologist who owns a luxury diamond atelier, is married to Jeremy Bond, a fund manager and grandson of late magnate Alan Bond Kate Bond (pictured), who also married into the Bond family, is the owner of Bond Street, a luxury sleepwear brand designed to be worn from night to day Olivia has previously stated that her wealthy in-laws did not finance her business, and were not suggesting otherwise. Kate hasn't commented either way, but for any entrepreneur, knowing there's family wealth to fall back on would certainly be reassuring. Also carving out their own path are sisters Georgia and Bella Geminder - granddaughters of late packaging magnate Richard Pratt and daughters of Raphael and Fiona Geminder. Georgia launched her dental product brand, Gem, in 2021, introducing a range of non-chemical oral care products to the market. The brand has since expanded its range to include deodorants and other personal care items. Speaking to the Australian Financial Review, the heiress said she only had 'minimal' financial backing from her billionaire parents when launching Gem. Instead, she invested her own savings from working as a model to get the company off the ground. Georgia's sister Bella, also a model, launched her skincare line Strange Luxury in 2024, offering minimalist, vegan products designed to simplify routines without compromising on luxury. Next up is Deborah Symond ONeil, founder of luxury athleisure retailer Mode Sportif. Also carving out their own path are sisters Georgia and Bella Geminder - granddaughters of late packaging magnate Richard Pratt and daughters of Raphael and Fiona Geminder Georgia (pictured with parents Fiona and Raphael) launched her dental product brand Gem in 2021, bringing a range of non-chemical oral care products to the market Deborah Symond O'Neil, the daughter of Aussie Home Loans founder John Symond, runs the luxury athleisure retailer Mode Sportif Deborah is the daughter of Aussie Home Loans founder John Symond, who has an estimated net worth of $832million. She is married to Ned O'Neil, the son of superyacht broker and Rose Bay Marina owner Denis O'Neil. She launched Mode Sportif as an online store in 2014, offering a curated selection of international and local designers. The brand expanded into bricks-and-mortar retail, with its first concept store opening in Sydney's Paddington in 2016, followed by a flagship boutique in Double Bay. Deborah's sister-in-law Poppy Tzaneros also makes our list. The only daughter of Denis O'Neil, Poppy chose a career in interior design with the support of her mother Charlotte, establishing her company POCO Designs. Poppy is also married to Anthony Tzaneros, the heir to the ACFS Port Logistics freight empire, one of Australia's largest privately owned freight companies. Deborah's sister-in-law Poppy Tzaneros, the daughter of Denis O'Neil, has chosen a career in interior design with the help of her mother Charlotte. (She is pictured with husband Anthony) Katelin Gregg (pictured), co-founder of members-only skincare clinic Fayshell, also comes from quite an affluent background Jaimee Lupton (left) turned a luxury PR background into a powerhouse empire with Monday Haircare, selling out supermarkets and launching viral bottles in millennial pink. Her partner Nick Mowbray (right), is the billionaire co-founder of the toy giant ZURU Elsewhere, Michael Porter (pictured) heir to the Four Seasons condom dynasty, has found success with the launch of his popular acne care brand Skin Control Also joining our list is Stephanie Onisforou (pictured), the daughter of millionaire Sydney property investor and retail tycoon Theo Onisforou and his ex-wife Heidi Katelin Gregg, co-founder of members- only skincare clinic Fayshell, also has a privileged background. Her father Rob Gregg is the founder of medical supply firm Mondeal Aesthetics, a leading distributor of aesthetic medical and skincare products. Katelin recently made headlines after it was reported she and Fayshell co-founder Ella James had parted ways. Jaimee Lupton is the beauty founder who turned a luxury PR background into a powerhouse empire with Monday Haircare, selling out supermarkets and launching viral bottles in millennial pink. Her partner Nick Mowbray is the billionaire co-founder of the toy giant ZURU. While Jaimee built her own brand after working in public relations, having someone like Nick by her side would no doubt have given her access to the capital, scale and connections most business founders could only dream of. Elsewhere, Michael Porter, heir to the Four Seasons condom dynasty, has found success with the launch of his popular acne care brand Skin Control. He co-founded the brand with his father Graham Porter, with Skin Control forming part of a larger family business, Australian Therapeutic Supplies. 'My father [and co-founder] Graham has been a major supporter and advocate helping me on this journey,' Michael told GQ Australia. 'He's always believed in my vision for the brand and has helped guide me to ensure I stay on track.' Also joining our list is Stephanie Onisforou, the daughter of millionaire Sydney property investor and retail tycoon Theo Onisforou and his ex-wife Heidi. The young entrepreneur opened Cafe de la Fontaine in Potts Point after Theo purchased Andersen's Ice Cream store and gave her the keys. READ THE LATEST FROM DAILYMAIL+ Here are some great stories you may have missed: Michael Madsen's sister Virginia Madsen was seen for the first time since her brother's shock death in July. The Oscar-nominated actress, 64, stepped out with her Emmy winner mother Elaine Madsen, 93, in Los Angeles almost three months after the Kill Bill star's death from cardiac arrest aged 67. Virginia and Elaine held hands on the rare outing together - which saw the pair don smart outfits in white and lavender tones. The star made her film debut in 1983 with a small part in Class opposite Rob Lowe. Her breakout role came the following year when she played Princess Irulan in David Lynch's Dune. And she was the main attraction in the horror film Candyman (1992). Michael Madsen's sister Virginia Madsen was seen for the first time since her brother's shock death in July Sideways star Virginia is seen with her beloved brother Michael in 2007 Other notable films were The Prophecy (1995), Ghosts of Mississippi (1996), and The Rainmaker (1997). For her portrayal of waitress Maya Randall in Sideways (2004), Madsen was nominated for the Oscar for Best Supporting Actress in 2005. Subsequent credits include A Prairie Home Companion (2006), The Number 23 (2007), The Haunting in Connecticut (2009), Joy (2015), and Lola (2024). Virginia was married to actor and director Danny Huston after meeting on the set of Mr. North (1988). They married in 1989 and divorced in 1992. He had a large role on Yellowstone but was killed off; the show returns on November 10. Virginia was in a long-term relationship with Antonio Sabato Jr. from 1993 to 1998. They share a son. And she wed Gilmore Girls actor Nick Holmes in 2020. Following Michael's shock death, Virginia paid a heartbreaking tribute to him. 'My brother Michael has left the stage,' Virginia said. 'He was thunder and velvet. Mischief wrapped in tenderness. A poet disguised as an outlaw. A father, a son, a brother etched in contradiction, tempered by love that left its mark.' The Oscar-nominated actress, 64, stepped out with her Emmy winner mother Elaine Madsen, 93, in Los Angeles almost three months after the Kill Bill star's death from cardiac arrest aged 67 Virginia doted on her mother on the rare joint public outing The actress wore a white dress and lavender scarf for the outing The mother and daughter duo posed for a photo Elaine won an Emmy Award in 1983 for producing the documentary Better Than It Has to Be Virginia is the younger sister of the late Kill Bill star, and the pair have supported one another throughout their respective careers in Hollywood 'We're not mourning a public figure,' she added. 'We're not mourning a myth but flesh and blood and ferocious heart. Who stormed through life loud, brilliant, and half on fire. Who leaves us echoes gruff, brilliant, unrepeatable half legend, half lullaby.' She concluded in a statement obtained by Variety: 'I'll miss our inside jokes, the sudden laughter, the sound of him. I'll miss the boy he was before the legend; I miss my big brother.' 'Thank you to everyone reaching out with love and memory. In time, we'll share how we plan to celebrate his life but for now, we stay close, and let the silence say what words can't.' The star's manager Ron Smith claimed to the Daily Mail that Madsen had died from 'cardiac arrest.' A statement from the star's representatives read: 'In the last two years Michael Madsen has been doing some incredible work with independent film including upcoming feature films Resurrection Road, Concessions and Cookbook for Southern Housewives, and was really looking forward to this next chapter in his life. 'Madsen was also preparing to release a new book called Tears For My Father: Outlaw Thoughts and Poems. She concluded her heartbreaking statement in July saying: 'I miss my big brother.' 'Michael Madsen was one of Hollywood's most iconic actors, who will be missed by many.' Madsen was best known for his frequent collaborations with director Quentin Tarantino, starring in Reservoir Dogs (1992), Kill Bill: Volume 2 (2004), The Hateful Eight (2015), and Once Upon a Time in Hollywood (2019). He also starred in 1997's Donnie Brasco as Sonny Black Madsen is survived by his five children. His son Hudson died by suicide in 2022 aged 26. She's become one of the world's biggest fashion icons. But Kim Kardashian's fashion history contains multitudes, with the reality star's style defined by a transformative evolution from bandage dresses and chunky belts to minimalist and body-conscious silhouettes. The 44-year-old's current style has seen her embrace monochromatic and neutral palettes, try out more experimental looks and incorporate archival pieces. Her shift in style can be traced to the influence of her now-ex Kanye West, her close relationships with many of the fashion world's biggest names, and the launching of her own brand, Skims. Following her divorce from Kanye, Kim noticeably redefined her style on her own terms, becoming one of the most influential fashionistas, with top designers begging to dress her and landing a slew of coveted magazine covers. And in her latest Vogue France's October issue the mogul talked through her kaleidoscopic fashion trajectory, highlighting the four brands that were most pivotal to both her style and her confidence. She's become one of the world's biggest fashion icons. But Kim Kardashian's fashion history contains multitudes (seen at 2019 Met Gala) The reality star's style is defined by a transformative evolution from bandage dresses and chunky belts to minimalist and body-conscious silhouettes (left, in 2007 and, right, in August 2025) Her shift in style can be traced to the influence of her now-ex Kanye West (pictured in 2019), her close relationships with many of the fashion world's biggest names, and the launching of her own brand, Skims BALMAIN When asked about which style period she felt was the most significant in her career, Kim confessed that it was her Balmain era that stood out the most, as it's when she learned about fashion. She said: 'Oh my God, there are so many memories. Each period is a reflection of a relationship with a designer. 'I think my Balmain period really set the tone. It reminds me of my love for France and the times I spent in Paris, in Olivier's [Rousteing] Atelier. That time taught me a lot about fashion.' The reality star and her younger sisters, Kendall and Kylie Jenner, were often seen stepping out in the brand's signature designs in the 2010s, with Kim even nicknaming herself 'Balmain Barbie' in 2019. She frequently favoured Balmain's famous sparkly and beaded dresses, particularly drawn to the structured silhouettes made up of cinched waists and defined shoulders. She chose a futuristic silver gown from the brand to wear to the Met Gala in 2016, which she described as 'a blingy sexy robot' and wore a powder-blue pearl-embellished Balmain dress for her bachelorette party in Paris. And Kim embraced Rousteing's love of latex, squeezing her famous hourglasses curves into several of the skintight outfits at Paris Fashion Week in 2020. She wore this powder-blue pearl-embellished Balmain dress for her bachelorette party in Paris and even nicknamed herself 'Balmain Barbie' in 2019 She frequently favoured Balmain's famous sparkly and beaded dresses, and chose this futuristic silver gown from the brand to the Met Gala in 2016, which she described as 'a blingy sexy robot' Kim also embraced Rousteing's love of latex, squeezing her famous hourglasses curves into several of the skintight outfits at Paris Fashion Week in 2020 GIVENCHY With much of her style trajectory being influenced by her relationships with certain fashion houses, Kim detailed how the most important thing for her when working with a designer was how well they understood each other. And while there have been a slew of big names like Rousteing, Mugler and Demna, who have played important roles in her fashion journey, Riccardo Tisci has arguably been the most vital. During the Italian's time as the creative director of Givenchy, he was one of the first designers to see Kim's potential to reach style icon status. The designer previously admitted that he 'got killed' over his decision to work with the star, saying: '[She was accepted] by nobody. Every designer is dying to dress her now. I didn't care what people thought about Kim. 'In the beginning I met her because of my respect for Kanye, and then I liked her a lot and we became friends. I got killed because of this. But I didn't care.' Kim soon was regularly being snapped in the label's signature looks, with Tisci even designing her stunning long-sleeved lace dress for her wedding to Kanye West in May 2014. And when presenting the designer with the Fashion Innovator Award in 2019, she gushed: 'I am so excited to be here for someone who has believed in me before I really knew what fashion was and before I believed in myself'. Speaking about their relationship to Vogue France, Kim said: 'It's all about chemistry, it's essential. You reminded me of Riccardo, and when I think back, it wasn't instantaneous. And while there have been a slew of big names like Olivier, Mugler and Demna, who have played important roles in her fashion journey, Riccardo Tisci has arguably been the most vital Kim was heavily pregnant with eldest daughter North when she attended the 2013 Met Gala in a figure-hugging floral gown that clung to her blossoming bump 'It happened over time, during outings and breakfasts we had in different cities and over the course of which we really got to know each other. 'I was introduced to him, obviously, but a real friendship developed between us after that. You can find a good designer, but it's worthless if they don't really get you.' And she cited the gown that Tisci had made her for her Met Gala debut as one of her 'favourite' looks. She said: 'Riccardo showed me what cool was. And he's so kind... He designed clothes for North for fun. He also made my dress for my very first Met Gala. When I think back, it's one of my favourites.' Kim was heavily pregnant with eldest daughter North when she attended the 2013 Met Gala in a figure-hugging floral gown that clung to her blossoming bump. Speaking to Vogue in 2019 about the design process, she explained how there had been two versions of the dress originally, a black one and the rose-print. She recalled the sweet way that Riccardo decided on the floral, saying: 'I was like, "I think I should just do the black version," and Riccardo was like, "No, cmon, we have to do the floral". 'Riccardo said afterwards, "What do you give a woman who is pregnant? You send her flowers".' The look was one of the most talked-about on the night, and cemented Kim's place on the fashion map. BALENCIAGA One fashion house that has become synonymous with Kim is Balenciaga, with the mother-of-four sharing a close friendship with former director, Demna She often served as his muse, walking in several of the label's runway shows and starring in several campaigns, before officially becoming the brands ambassador in January 2024 (seen at the Balenciaga show at PFW in July) One fashion house that has become synonymous with Kim is Balenciaga, with the mother-of-four sharing a close friendship with former director, Demna. She often served as his muse, walking in several of the label's runway shows and starring in several campaigns, before officially becoming the brands ambassador in January 2024. She famously underwent a style transformation when she began dating now ex-husband Kanye, with the rapper completely overhauling her wardrobe in an episode of Keeping Up With the Kardashians. She later admitted in 2018: 'I always thought I had really good style... until I met my husband and he told me that I had the worst style. 'He was really nice about it and cleaned out my whole closet. I probably had 250 pairs of shoes and when we were done cleaning it out, I had two pairs left and I cried.' However, after Kim filed for divorce in February 2021, she found herself having to reevaluate her wardrobe according to her own judgement, which she admitted she struggled to trust. Speaking candidly on The Kardashians, she explained: 'I definitely see what I like, but I've never really been the visionary. 'Kanye would come in and be like, "You should do your hair like this. You should do your makeup like this." That's his love language, it's clothes. I always just trusted in him.' She famously underwent a style transformation when she began dating now ex-husband Kanye, with the rapper seen completely overhauling her wardrobe in an episode of Keeping Up With the Kardashians (pictured in 2014) However, after Kim filed for divorce in February 2021, she found herself having to reevaluate her wardrobe according to her own judgement, which she admitted she struggled to trust (pictured with Kanye in 2016) Notably, the breakdown of Kim and Kanye's marriage coincided with the period her relationship to Demna strengthened, with her wearing the famous black Balenciaga gown that covered her face to the Met Gala that year And notably, the breakdown of Kim and Kanye's marriage coincided with the period her relationship to Demna strengthened, with her wearing the famous black Balenciaga gown that covered her face to the Met Gala that year. In her chat to Vogue France, Kim explained how crucial her relationship with Balenciaga and Demna had been for improving her confidence, calling it 'very validating'. She said: 'I think things really changed with Demna. He doesn't care about what other people think, so I learned to do the same. We became very close. 'I already liked dressing up before I met him, of course, but it was different. I thought fashion was something very elaborate, with sequins or that kind of flashy stuff. 'Whereas with Balenciaga, I can wear any piece without having to overdo it. It doesn't have to be chic or sophisticated to be strong. 'I can dress more simply, without the help of a stylist, according to my own tastes. It's very validating.' SKIMS After learning from several incredible fashion designers and developing her own sense of style, Kim finally decided to take what she'd learned and create her own brand. She co-founded Skims in 2019, using her own image as part of the advertising and marketing, and sold more than three million products in the first year. Speaking about how Skims had changed her, she told Vogue France: 'Starting this company has taught me a lot about the business world, supply chains, manufacturing plants, distribution channels... After learning from several incredible fashion designers and developing her own sense of style, Kim finally decided to take what she'd learned and create her own brand She co-founded Skims in 2019, using her own image as part of the advertising and marketing, and sold more than three million products in the first year And on Monday, Kim debuted NikeSkims, bringing together her brand and Nike to create an activewear company, spanning seven different collection 'From the beginning, I had a clear vision of what I wanted, and I was lucky enough to be able to make it happen. My team trusts me. They always listen to my ideas... even when I told them about slimming face masks! 'Some might have thought it was ridiculous, but they did everything they could to make it happen. So I'd say that, despite the challenges, this agreement has led to some great things.' The success and popularity of Skims can be credited, in part, to its willingness to branch out; first by updating what shapewear looks like in 2020's and then adding a variety of partnerships and collaborations, including many celebrities. The company also stresses the importance of body positivity and inclusivity, offering a full range of sizes. In October 2023, the brand made the move to launch a men's underwear collection after hearing how men were fans of the brand and has since evolved into including swimwear, loungewear and sleepwear. And as well as starring in brand campaigns, Kim is frequently seen in the brand's designs on nights out and at events. And on Monday, Kim debuted NikeSkims, bringing together her brand and Nike to create an activewear company, spanning seven different collections. launches for sale on September 26. As a founding member of Staten Island rap collective Wu-Tang Clan he helped redefine the urban landscape by pioneering an often unorthodox, always uncompromising brand of Shaolin inspired hip hop. But for all his professional triumphs, rapper Dennis Coles - known to millions as the lyrically gifted Ghostface Killah - is at the beating heart of a very personal division with a son who now hopes to reshape the genre that took his father away from the projects and made him a star. Openly gay and a committed member of the New York queer community's vibrant Vogue ballroom scene - a subculture that 'changed his life' - Infinite Coles says his sexuality drove a wedge between him and his father, with whom he has not spoken in more than a decade, and ultimately provided the creative spark that inspired his new double A-side single, SweetFaceKillah/Dad & I. 'Im close to my mums side of the family,' he told the Daily Mail. 'My uncle RZA. I grew up with that side of the family, my cousins. I think when I was a kid I had a great time, you know? 'But you get older and become yourself, then people either distance themselves or love you for you. As I got older my dads seen some things in me that he didnt like and he just distanced himself. 'He would randomly pop up. Theres not moments I can remember where we were together for a whole month, or a whole week. Infinite Coles (L) admits he hasn't spoken to his father, the pioneering Wu-Tang Clan rapper Ghostface Killah (R), in more than ten years 'It was like, Oh, dads in town, maybe hell call us up and bring us to a restaurant or something, but those were my childhood days and I think the shift changed when I started living as who I am, with my sexuality. 'I think when he found out about it, or started to have thoughts about it, I think thats when the distance really happened, because I have brothers and sisters and he always talks to them.' Bold, brash and buoyed with an empowering queer confidence, Infinite admits he has an overwhelming desire to write a new, inclusive chapter in the history of hip hop. But while SweetFaceKillah/Dad & I offers a positive and playful twist on the genre with its fusion of upbeat house and contemporary rap, the emotionally fraught inspiration behind his new music casts a tall shadow over its recent release. Born and raised in New York's tough Staten Island housing projects, Infinite was already well versed in the genre through his estranged father long before he considered pursuing his own music career. And little wonder; the Wu-Tang Clan helped redefine gangster rap with the release of their gritty debut album Enter The Wu-Tang (36 Chambers) in 1993 and a subsequent stream of often groundbreaking solo releases from its respective members, among them Ghostface's critically acclaimed debut, Ironman. But Infinite says the perceived homophobia that underpinned some of the group's lyrical content alienated him from his absent father as he struggled to come to terms with his own sexuality. 'Ive always been who I am, and I always remember hearing a lot of the slurs, you know, f**got, things like that, so it kind of resonated with me growing up,' he recalled. Infinite's new double A-side single SweetFaceKillah/Dad & I is partly inspired by his estranged from his father, with whom he hasn't spoken in more than a decade 'As I got older my dads seen some things in me that he didnt like and he just distanced himself,' he told the Daily Mail 'At some point, when I started to get into my music and my writing, I started realising the beautiful parts of my dad. Like, hes a great storyteller, and I never even got into that, and never even knew that. 'I was like, wow, he can really tell a story, he can really write. I always knew there was talent, but it didnt really resonate with me. 'In rap you can hear theres a lot [of homophobia]. But I try to give him grace because I know his dad wasnt there for him when he was a child, so I dont always want to blame him he doesnt know how to be a father because he didnt have one.' His familial bond with the legendary rapper serves as inspiration for some of the new material on forthcoming album SweetFaceKillah, notably Dad & I, and its tongue-in-cheek title track - inspired by a term originally aimed at the artist as a homophobic slur. 'Im just ready to be recognised,' he said. 'I've been the underdog for so long because I was so insecure. When it comes to rap, I just wanted to rap, but I always thought I wasnt allowed in that space. (L-R) RZA, U-God, Raekwon, Ghostface Killah, Ol' Dirty Bastard, Masta Killa, GZA and Method Man of the American rap group Wu-Tang Clan in 1997 'I grew up with family being Wu-Tang, and theyre very hardcore, but thats not me. I wouldnt even attempt to do it. Im just ready to be recognised and not be the underdog no more.' While his father remains absent from his life, Infinite credits his uncle - founding Wu-Tang Clan member Robert Diggs, AKA RZA - for remaining by his side and providing the emotional support he needed during his upbringing. RZA, whose sister is infinite's biological mother, also provided the financial backing for the artist's forthcoming debut album, and he admits his burgeoning career might never have taken off had it not been for his fatherly encouragement. 'Honestly, my uncle RZA has been amazing. Hes been like a dad. I love him so much, hes amazing. That is my guy, right there. 'He believed in me, always, he just didnt know how to brand me, but I appreciated him being honest with me. He always said, "youll be bigger than your father". He always said that.' Infinite's familial bond with the rapper serves as inspiration for much of his new material (pictured: Ghostface Killah, Ol' Dirty Bastard, Raekwon, and Inspectah Deck in 1993) 'Im just ready to be recognised. I've been the underdog for so long because I was so insecure. When it comes to rap, I just wanted to rap, but I always thought I wasnt allowed in that space' Produced by Zach Witness and spread across 12 tracks, Infinite says his new album will give fans an opportunity to 'hear my story first' - one that began on the streets of Staten Island and led to an extended period of homelessness in New York City, a bleak experience that ultimately fuelled his creativity. 'In 2020 I was in a shelter for a year, almost 11 months,' he recalled. 'I got out in 2021. I always tell people that was probably one of the most depressing moments of my life. 'I went to the shelter because I couldnt take the family drama. I knew I wouldve been able to get my own apartment, but I knew I wouldnt be able to maintain it. 'So, I had to try and be smart, family drama was really bad, and it blocked me from doing what Im doing now. Spread across 12 tracks, Infinite says the new album will give fans an opportunity to 'hear my story first' - one that began on the streets of Staten Island and led to an extended period of homelessness 'I had to take the ferry into the city, and then the train for an hour and a half into Queens, and that was my travel every single day to catch my curfew. In the beginning it was so depressing, but then I started using those moments on the train to think. 'I just started thinking, and those thoughts helped me calm down and appreciate that I was going to get out of here and have my own space. 'I learned a lot through those travels, and when I finally got my own apartment, my producer was with me in my house for a couple of weeks, and thats when the music started, in 2021.' He added: 'Now I can say I appreciate that moment, because if I didnt have that moment, I would never have been able to write how I do today. I had to do that, I had to experience that, or I would not be here today, doing this.' With the single and its film noir inspired video released on September 17, Infinite is hoping to inject some much needed diversity into the hip hop genre after seeing his community repeatedly underrepresented and frequently appropriated by urban artists. He said: 'I feel like theres so much talent in my community and I also dont understand why so many of us are not allowed or invited into that hip hop community. With the single and its film noir inspired video released on September 17, Infinite is hoping to inject some much needed diversity into the hip hop genre 'They use us for fashion, but we can do more than that. I mean, theres a problem until you want us to dress you, you know what I mean? But I think theres a lot of amazing hip hop artists in my community who deserve a lot more recognition and a lot more respect. 'When youre a girl its OK [to be gay], but when youre a guy its like, no, we dont want that. Im not here for it but thats the way the world is right now. Ill be the one to break a lot of those barriers.' It's a long road, but after enjoying an enthusiastic online response to his new music and developing significant traction across social media, infinite is already dreaming big He added: 'I have cousins who cant rap or rhyme a lick but get a chance, Im like, wheres my chance? So, Im just ready to be seen. 'After all these positive comments and people noticing my talent, I want a Grammy now. Before I just wanted to take care of my business, but now I want a Grammy.' Debut album SweetFaceKillah is available to buy or stream from December 5. Debut single Dad & I/SweetFaceKillah is out now. Former Channel Ten star Tristan McManus has reportedly split from his wife Tahyna Tozzi. The former Studio 10 star, 43, and his actress wife, 39, have parted ways after more than ten years of marriage, Confidential reported on Saturday. According to a source close to the couple, the split happened 'a while ago' and was amicable, with the couple focusing on co-parenting their children. The pair have three children togetherEcho Isolde, seven, Oisin Lir, four, and Tadhg, two. 'They actually broke up a little while ago, but have kept it under wraps,' a source told the publication. 'They still see each other daily and are doing an amazing job of co-parenting their kids.' Former Channel Ten star Tristan McManus has reportedly split from his wife Tahyna Tozzi (both pictured) after 10 years of marriage The publication also reported that Tahyna, the elder sister of model Cheyenne Tozzi, is currently in New York as a guest of Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. Tahyna, along with Michael 'Wippa' Wipfli and Rob GalluzzoCEO of production company Finchattended to present their 36 Months campaign to the United Nations Assembly. The campaign helps to drive the incoming Australian social media ban for children under 16. Meanwhile Tristan, who was a co-host on Channel Ten breakfast show Studio Ten from 2020 to 2023, last took to Instagram to reveal he had suffered his first panic attack. Posting on social media this week, he shared a series of photos that showed him competing in an Ironman event. 'Big weekendhad my first panic attack in water, a lot of negative head noise almost broke me but fought enough to not completely cave in,' he wrote. 'Managed to finish the race just before cut-off - not the time I wanted or result but the lesson invaluable!' In a telling sign the couple's reported split is amicable, Tahyna commented on Tristan's post with two clapping hands emojis. According to a source close to the couple, the split happened 'a while ago' and was amicable, with the couple focusing on co-parenting their children Rumours of a split have been circulating around the couple for months, with neither having appeared on each other's social media feeds since April last year, when Tristan shared a birthday tribute to his wife. 'Happy birthday to this absolute superstar/smoke shop! We love you so much, thanks for making all our lives so much better and happier,' he wrote at the time. Also tellingly, Tahyna raised a few eyebrows earlier this month when she was spotted without her wedding ring at the Australian Women's Film Festival. She was also without her ring when she appeared on the red carpet for the same event in 2024. Daily Mail has reached out to Tristan and Tahyna for comment. Alana 'Honey Boo Boo' Thompson was involved in a car wreck in Denver on Friday while heading to run an errand. The 20-year-old had been pulling out of the driveway to her residence in Colorado when another driver 'T-boned' her while speedily driving down the road. Her mother Mama June shared the news in an Instagram video and explained it was her daughter's 'first car wreck' but emphasized that she is 'okay' and 'resting.' The TV personality filmed herself while inside a crowded airport before boarding a flight to be by her daughter's side and explained the scary incident to her followers. Mama June said that Honey Boo Boo was leaving her house when the accident took place. However, she gave the 23-year-old male driver 'credit' because 'he admitted that he was going 40mph and probably wasn't paying attention.' Alana 'Honey Boo Boo' Thompson, 20, was involved in a car wreck in Denver on Friday while heading to run an errand Her mother Mama June shared the news in an Instagram video and explained it was her daughter's 'first car wreck' but emphasized that she is 'okay' and 'resting' The reality star confirmed that her daughter was 'fine' and said the impact occurred on her driver's side. Mama June then expressed that 'it could have been a lot worse.' Following the incident, Honey Boo Boo was taken to the hospital but has since been discharged and is currently recovering at home. Her mother explained that her daughter is experiencing both back pain and 'headache issues.' Mama June filmed the clip on Friday night and shared that she was on her way to Denver to help Honey Boo Boo get a rental car and also 'get her set.' In the caption of the post, the star went into further detail about the car crash and wrote, 'Today today is definitely been a crazy day since 3 o'clock. This is what I hate that. 'Alana Thompson is 23 hours away, but she is following her dreams when you get that phone call and your stomach drops and all you can hear is someone hollering trust me I'll do a story time about it tomorrow but she is at home. She is resting.' Mama June said that her daughter 'is banged up a little bit but other than that she is OK first car wreck.' Honey Boo Boo 'was just going to go get her hair done' when she was hit while pulling out of the driveway. However, she gave the 23-year-old male driver 'credit' because 'he admitted that he was going 40mph and probably wasn't paying attention' Mama June said that her daughter 'is banged up a little bit but other than that she is OK first car wreck' The TV personality told TMZ that she was very 'thankful' because if Honey Boo Boo had pulled out of the residence just moments earlier, 'it would've been a whole different visit'; seen in May in NYC 'And her phone call was to the police or second phone call was to her clinical director because tomorrow would've been her first day that she would've started clinicals and she still saying that she's gonna get up in the morning and go we will see...' Honey Boo Boo is currently enrolled at Regis University in Denver where she is pursuing a nursing degree. 'But headed to Denver to get her rental car get the car situation figured out and making sure that she is OK,' Mama June concluded. The TV personality told TMZ that she was very 'thankful' because if Honey Boo Boo had pulled out of her residence just moments earlier, 'it would've been a whole different visit.' While this was Honey Boo Boo's first car accident when driving behind the wheel, she was previously involved in a wreck with her family over 10 years earlier. Back in 2014, her father Mike 'Sugar Bear' Thompson had been driving her as well as Mama June and sisters Lauryn and Jessica. He had been making a left turn when another vehicle allegedly struck them. At the time, Mama June issued a statement which read: 'As many of you heard we were in a car accident last night. Honey Boo Boo is currently enrolled at Regis University in Denver where she is pursuing a nursing degree 'It was really scary for us, since it was the first time any of us had ever been in a wreck. We are definitely really sore today, but our top priority is to celebrate Pumpkin's [daughter Lauryn Efird] birthday.' Mama June added, 'She turned 14 today and, no matter how sore we feel, we are going to go out and celebrate. As always, we want to thank everyone for their support and well wishes.' Earlier this year in May, Honey Boo Boo reflected on the accident and questioned if the incident had been intentional by her father. 'There were just times when my dad, he would just get super angry and he let his anger issues just get the best of him,' she told Us Weekly. Earlier this year in May, Honey Boo Boo reflected on the accident and questioned if the incident had been intentional by her father; Mama June and Sugar Bear seen in 2015 in Universal City A dramatized Lifetime documentary film depicting Honey Boo Boo's life recently premiered on the network on May 17 - and garnered mixed reviews 'So you never really knew when he was angry, what would happen. It was just always up in the air. There [were] times [when] he would just rip his clothes off or just throw things or punch walls.' The Toddlers And Tiaras alum continued, 'It was just a little scary. You never know what could happen when he got angry.' The star admitted that doesn't communicate with her father Sugar Bear often and expressed to the outlet, 'I can't even tell you the last time I talked to him. That's how long it's been.' A dramatized Lifetime documentary film depicting Honey Boo Boo's life recently premiered on the network on May 17 - and garnered mixed reviews. The Married At First Sight 2025 cast are no strangers to fuelling romance speculation - but the latest social media activity from Awhina Rutene has set tongues wagging. The 31-year-old bride was spotted in Perth holding hands with fellow groom Dave Hand, sparking fresh rumours of a possible post-show couple swap. In footage shared online over the weekend, Awhina looked smitten as she walked hand-in-hand with Dave, dressed casually in a white tank top and high-waisted jeans. The video quickly sent the internet wild, with some speculating that Awhina has now moved on with her best friend Jamie Marinos' TV ex-husband. But the reality star has since cleared the air, insisting the interaction was nothing more than friendly. Posting to her Instagram stories, she wrote: 'Guys, Dave is a friend, this is a TT trend where it emphasises height difference.' The Married At First Sight 2025 cast are no strangers to fuelling romance speculation - but the latest social media activity from Awhina Rutene has set tongues wagging. (Pictured L-R: Awhina Rutene, Dave Hand and Carina Mirabile) The 31-year-old bride was spotted in Perth holding hands with fellow groom Dave Hand , sparking fresh rumours of a possible post-show couple swap She continued: 'I think everyone knows how much I valued Dave during filming but just so we're all clear I am single, and currently content not being in a relationship right now.' Her post comes amid whispers that she and Dave had grown closer after filming, with fans quick to point out their chemistry in behind-the-scenes clips. Meanwhile, Billy Belcher - who enjoyed a few weeks of flirtation with Awhina post experiment - appeared to send his own cryptic message. The English tradie shared a photo of a mystery brunette walking along a Perth beach, adding a poll that read: 'Soft launch? Yes/No.' The timing of Billy's post hasn't gone unnoticed, with fans suggesting it was a subtle swipe following Awhina's video. The unlikely sighting comes just weeks after Billy was filmed kissing a busty blonde in Bali, just days after Awhina jetted home to Perth from the island. Awhina had been staying with the 32-year-old tattooed tradie in a luxury villa where they celebrated his birthday. Billy was spotted packing on the PDA with a mystery blonde at a local Bali nightclub in July. But the reality star has since moved to clear the air, insisting the interaction was nothing more than friendly Awhina was previously romantically linked to fellow groom Billy Belcher - but this was proven to be just friendly banter Meanwhile, Billy Belcher - who enjoyed a few weeks of flirtation with Awhina post experiment - appeared to send his own cryptic message In footage obtained by Daily Mail, the English groom was seen grinding and cuddling up to the leggy partygoer inside a dimly lit club. Wearing a red and white oversized jersey with the number '07' and a backwards cap, Billy danced, held hands and leaned in close to the blonde, who wore a revealing backless black dress. At one point, the pair appeared to share a kiss on the dance floor. An onlooker told Daily Mail: 'They were all over each other. No attempt to hide it.' When approached for comment, Awhina played down any romantic interest in Billy, telling Daily Mail that the pair were 'just friends.' The pair also released a video confirming they are enjoying a 'close friendship' and are no longer romantically linked. During the show, Awhina and Billy bonded over their emotional turmoil during the infamously dramatic 'wife swap' scandal, which saw her partner Adrian and his spouse Sierah entangled in secret flirtations. Their friendship deepened postshow, and the duo were photographed holding hands on a Valentine's Day beach walk. The unlikely sighting comes just weeks after Billy was filmed kissing a busty blonde in Bali, just days after Awhina jetted home to Perth from the island Wearing a red and white oversized jersey with the number '07' and a backwards cap, Billy danced, held hands and leaned in close to the blonde, who wore a revealing backless black dress Billy also attended Awhina's 31st birthday alongside her twin Cleo, and they enjoyed several dates in Perth. Despite this, Awhina repeatedly described the relationship as 'purely platonic'. Yet in early June, the pair softlaunched their relationship by posting a cosy Instagram carousel captioned: 'I'll keep this one.' They officially went public soon after. Awhina then introduced Billy to her son Landon - an important step, given she met him during filming. Many viewers had long suspected Awhina and Billy's chemistry, noting that the MAFS experts got it wrong by not pairing them in the first place. Daily Mail has reached out for comment to Awhina, Billy and Dave. Tom Holland has broken his silence as he gave a health update after suffering a head injury while filming a Spider-Man stunt. The actor, 29, was injured when a stunt went wrong on September 19 while shooting scenes as the beloved Marvel character. Paramedics rushed to the scene at Leavesden Studios in Watford before taking Tom to the hospital for treatment. As he recuperates, filming has been halted on the blockbuster for a full week, with insiders insisting it was not possible to shoot scenes in Tom's absence. Now, the actor has shared an update with his fans as he took to Instagram on Saturday evening. The actor shared a video from a recent gala for his parents' nonprofit The Brothers Trust, which he attended with fiancee and co-star Zendaya. Tom Holland has broken his silence as he gave a health update after suffering a head injury while filming a Spider-Man stunt The actor, 29, was injured when a stunt went wrong on Friday while shooting scenes as the beloved Marvel character Alongside the post, he penned: 'What a night! Another huge success. 'The Brothers Trust means more to me than I could possibly say and I have to say a huge thank you to my Mum and her wonderful friends for putting on another incredible night. 'Raising money for fantastic causes and having fun doing it! 'I'm sorry I had to leave early but I'm feeling better and on the mend. 'A huge thanks to my Dad for taking over after I left. The show got considerably funnier.' It comes after it was revealed that the halting of production on Spider-Man's latest film is set to cost a staggering 10.5million as Tom recovers from a mild concussion. Spider-Man: Brand New Day, which is the fourth film in the Multi Cinematic Universe, is believed to cost $200m, approximately 150m. Daily Mail can reveal the production shutdown is set to cost bosses an additional eye-watering 1.5million a day until the clapperboard is clapped once more. Taking to Instagram on Saturday the actor shared a video from a recent gala for his parents' nonprofit The Brothers Trust, which he attended with fiancee and co-star Zendaya Alongside the post, he gave a health update Industry sources have said fees associated with production, such as the hiring of studio space, equipment and maintaining sets still stands despite the halting. The movie's star-studded cast, which includes Holland's girlfriend Zendaya, also need to be paid during that time as well as additional accommodation fees as a result of extended stays following the schedule changes. An insider said: 'It's a headache for any production to have to pause filming, but with a movie of this scale it will be a huge migraine for the producers and studio. 'Crew still need to be paid throughout the delay and there is also secondary location costs to consider. 'While health and safety comes first, everyone on the shoot will be hoping to get the cameras rolling again sooner rather than later.' Emeka Egbuonu, a film director, also told to Daily Mail: 'On a production the size of Spider-Man, which carries a $200 million budget, the daily running costs are immense. Daily Mail revealed the production shutdown is set to cost bosses an additional eye-watering 1.5million a day until the clapperboard is clapped once more 'Once you factor in cast, crew, set locations, equipment, and the logistical machine that keeps a blockbuster moving, each day of filming can cost between $1.5 and $2 million [1.1m and 1.5m] 'The challenge is that even when filming halts, many of those costs don't disappear the crew still need to be paid, sets need to be maintained, and equipment continues to be on hire.' He added it represents a 'significant financial hit for the studio and putting added pressure on schedules and delivery timelines'. Daily Mail contacted Sony Pictures for comment. In a previous statement, the East of England Ambulance Service said: 'We were called at 10.30am on Friday to attend to a patient who had sustained an injury at Leavesden Studios in Watford. 'An ambulance was sent to the scene, and the patient was transported to hospital for further care.' Despite the production halt, the movie is still currently slated for release in July 2026. Senior Chinese legislator meets French Senate delegation Xinhua) 10:55, September 28, 2025 Li Hongzhong, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and vice chairman of the National People's Congress Standing Committee, meets with a delegation from the France-China Friendship Group of the French Senate led by Claude Raynal, the group's honorary president, in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 26, 2025. (Xinhua/Liu Weibing) BEIJING, Sept. 26 (Xinhua) -- Li Hongzhong, vice chairman of the National People's Congress Standing Committee, met with a delegation from the France-China Friendship Group of the French Senate led by Claude Raynal, the group's honorary president, in Beijing on Friday. Li, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, said that under the strategic guidance of the heads of state of the two countries, high-level exchanges between China and France have been frequent, and bilateral relations have developed steadily. China is willing to work with France to deepen political mutual trust, respect each other's core interests and uphold multilateralism, Li said, noting that the two sides should enhance exchanges between legislative bodies, strengthen experience-sharing in legislation and other areas, and promote practical cooperation and people-to-people exchanges. Raynal said that the France-China Friendship Group of the French Senate is ready to make active contributions to advancing bilateral relations. Li Hongzhong, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and vice chairman of the National People's Congress Standing Committee, meets with a delegation from the France-China Friendship Group of the French Senate led by Claude Raynal, the group's honorary president, in Beijing, capital of China, Sept. 26, 2025. (Xinhua/Liu Weibing) (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) Kate Garraway has opened up on whether she will consider finding love again, following the death of her husband Derek Draper. Derek fought a brave four-year battle against Covid before tragically passing away in January last year. Almost two years since his passing, the TV presenter discussed getting back into the dating game. Kate, 58, told The Sun: 'I dont feel as if I can. Its a weird one, because I wouldnt like to think Id spend the rest of my life without love, but also it feels preposterous at the moment to think of being with anyone else. 'What Derek and I loved was our home life and just pottering around, and we had 21 years of that, so mentally I am still in that zone. 'However, I do realise that, when the time is right, I am not going to meet someone in my living room, so Im going to have to think about the future at some point.' Kate Garraway, 58, has opened up on whether she will consider finding love again, following the death of her husband Derek Draper Derek fought a brave four-year battle against Covid before tragically passing away in January last year Kate was hit by yet another financial blow in August, as her media company has been revealed to be almost 300,000 in the red, compounding her debt struggles. The GMB star was left in 800,000 debt after caring for her late husband. Kate has since been forced to sell her second home in order to pay off the debts, but it appears that her money woes are not yet over. The company she set up in 2021 to handle her media earnings has reported losses of 288,122 in 2024. Accounts filed to Companies House for Praespero 100 Ltd show that it has fallen significantly in the past two years, after reporting 165,011 in losses in 2023 and a 36,888 surplus in 2022. The firm, of which Kate is the sole director, is listed as being in the business of 'radio broadcasting, television programming and broadcasting activities and management consultancy activities other than financial management'. The Daily Mail contacted representatives for Kate for comment. It is the latest in a number of financial hits for the Good Morning Britain star, who is also battling company debts after Dereks psychotherapy firm Astra Aspera Ltd went bust owing hundreds of thousands to creditors including a huge sum to HMRC. Almost two years since his passing, the TV presenter discussed getting back into the dating game (pictured together in 2023) 'I do realise that, when the time is right, I am not going to meet someone in my living room, so Im going to have to think about the future at some point', Kate emotionally admitted The most recent liquidators report for Astra Aspera Ltd shows that Kate has been trying to repay some of the debt she owes - and HMRC have dramatically decreased their tax demand. The directors' loan account was overdrawn by 139,849, but the liquidator, Greenfield Recovery, hired solicitors, The Wilkes Partnership, 'to assist in the recovery and the sum of 21,000 has been received in this report period. According to the latest liquidator's report, HMRC has submitted a new preferential claim of 288,054. This is a third of its previous submission of 716,822. Its not known why the HMRC has dropped its demand. There are also creditor claims of 196,548 from four other firms including a 50,000 bank loan. It looks like therell be no pay out for creditors. In 2012, two other companies jointly controlled by Kate and Derek were wound up by creditors. Fulfill Media Ltd had debts totalling 922,807, which included 88,486 owed to HMRC, 90,882 to trade creditors, and 462,808 in 'third party loans. Countrymouse Media Ltd was liquidated owing 189,121, which included 98,944 to the taxman and 48,000 on an overdrawn directors loan account. Derek and Kate were both personally owed 24k each by the business. He is widely recognised for his outspoken views. Now, Nick Ferrari could be heading to Australia for this years series of Im A Celebrity in a reportedly lucrative deal. He's already become a firm favourite with daytime viewers through his regular This Morning appearances. The star is said to be in talks with the channel about taking part in the reality competition show. A source told The Sun: 'Jungle bosses think Nick would be a brilliant addition this year. 'He knows everyone in politics so he would have a wealth of Westminster gossip around the campfire. Nick Ferrari could be heading to Australia for this years series of Im A Celebrity in a reportedly lucrative deal The star is said to be in talks with the channel about taking part in the reality competition show 'Producers are determined to bag him this year and are prepared to dig deep into their pockets for a lucrative fee.' Daily Mail has contacted Nick and ITV for comment. The news comes just a month after Nick married his longtime love Clare Patterson in an idyllic venue in the south of France. The LBC radio host tied the knot surrounded by his celebs pals including Christopher Biggins, Myleene Klass and Piers Morgan. After a decade of dating his wife Clare, a radio producer 15 years his junior, Nick finally said 'I do' in front of his nearest and dearests. Their special day, which was officiated by actor Christopher, also featured Myleene playing Humming Class from the Italian opera Madame Butterfly on the harp and a reading by beloved friend Piers. They officially wed at the Old Marylebone Town Hall last week surrounded by close family prior to their French nuptials. Clare looked pretty in a thin-strap white gown, while dapper Nick wore a navy suit and pale pink shirt. The news comes just a month after Nick married his longtime love Clare Patterson in an idyllic venue in the south of France Christopher went all out in a bright pink suit to officiate the ceremony, while Piers wore a blue blazer and cream trousers. Myleene looked incredibly glamorous in a bright lime green gown as she struck a pose next to her friends. Nick revealed he got engaged to Clare in January after popping the question over Christmas at their favourite restaurant in France. The radio host shared the happy announcement on This Morning with presenters Ben Shephard and Cat Deeley. Cat announced that they had 'breaking news', before revealing that Nick was 'officially off the market. The LBC presenter then chimed in: 'Well I know a nation's heart is broken but I have to impart the news that I am engaged to be wed to Clare.' Panelist Vanessa Feltz greeted the news by joking that she was 'devastated'. Nick said: 'I am engaged to be wed to Clare. We had the most idyllic Christmas and we'd been to Lapland and had a brilliant time. 'Then we were down in the South of France and after ten years together I said she can make an honest man out of me. I did it at our favourite restaurant in the South of France.' Nick pictured with his ex wife, Sandra Phylis Conolly, at a drinks reception in London - they share two sons Nick said he jokingly got down on one knee while they were in a DIY store but then asked her to pass him a screwdriver instead. Nick had two sons with his ex wife Sandra Phylis Conolly, but is now divorced. He has previously declined to share many details about his new wife in interviews, but revealed in 2017 that she was a colleague. Known for his robust interviewing style, Nick hosts his own weekday breakfast show on LBC. He has also made appearances on The Pledge on Sky News, Richard & Judy, London Tonight and BBC London News. The broadcaster made headlines in 2023 after calling for the bosses of water companies to be jailed if their company pumps sewage into rivers. To rapturous applause from the audience, Nick said the scandal would be 'solved overnight' if the Government properly punished the bosses for the sins of their water firms by changing the law to make them personally responsible. He revealed one of his children had caught Weil's disease, adding: 'Fortunately he lived. It is a killer. And they [water companies] are playing with people's lives by putting sewage in the water. Put them behind bars, it will be solved overnight'. He added: 'This is the way we solve it and it's very simple. When the government wants to, they can bring in a law overnight, like the Public Order Act, which saw six people with some banners and a load of rubber bands arrested and thrown in jail. 'This is the law that needs to come in. Any chief executive who continually allows his or her company to put raw sewage into the water - let's get this law enacted - will go to jail for five years.' Educated at Eltham College, a private school in London, Nick began his journalism career at his father Lino's news agency, Ferrari Press Agency. He later worked on newspapers including The Sun and The Mirror before embarking on his broadcasting career. Naomi Campbell and Lady Kitty Spencer lead the glamour in all black ensembles as they attended Dolce & Gabbana catwalk during Milan Fashion Show on Saturday. Supermodel Naomi, 55, looked chic in a lace black top layered under a black and white jacket. She paired her jacket with tailored trousers and added inches to her frame in a pair of black stilettos. To complete her ensemble, she accessorised with a pair of large, square, black-tinted sunglasses. Meanwhile, Kitty looked elegant in a black lace dress which featured long sleeves and a balconette cut. She layered her lace dress under a large oversized leather jacket and accessorised with a pair of diamond earrings. Naomi Campbell and Lady Kitty Spencer lead the glamour in all black ensembles as they attended Dolce & Gabbana catwalk during Milan Fashion Show on Saturday Supermodel Naomi, 55, looked chic in a lace black top layered under a black and white jacket She toted her around her belongings in a black handbag which featured an array of gemstones. Kitty added inches to her statuesque frame as she slipped into a pair of towering strappy black stilettos. Meryl Streep was also spotted at the star-studded event as she stepped out in a brown leather trench coat. She completed her ensemble with a pair of chic beige sunglasses and toted around her belonings in a leopard print clutch. Denise Plasha put on a leggy displayed as she stepped out in a short black tailored blazer dress. She completed her outfit with a pair of oval black sunglasses and a maroon leather bag. Pia Metha turned heads in a skimpy strap thigh-high dress which paired with a black beany and knee-high leather boots. Thassia Naves looked phenomenal in a black dress layered under a dramatic leather jacket, which featured tasseled sleeves. She layered her lace dress under a large oversized leather jacket and accessorised with a pair of diamond earrings Meryl Streep was also spotted at the star-studded event as she stepped out in a brown leather trench coat Denise Plasha put on a leggy displayed as she stepped out in a short black tailored blazer dress and black platform heels Pia Metha turned heads in a skimpy strap thigh-high dress which paired with a black beany and knee-high leather boots Thassia Naves looked phenomenal in a black dress layered under a dramatic leather jacket, which featured tasseled sleeves Tamara Kalinic stepped out in satin black shorts, which she paired with a matching vest and chunky black boots Tiffany Hsu added a pop of colour with red unique headwear as she stepped out in a brown raincoat which featured padded shoulders Nicole Atieno stunned in a blue and grey checked two-piece co-ord which she paired with a blue shirt and red leather shoes Emili Sindlev cut a casual display in a pair of light blue denim jeans, a satin vest and a black leather trench coat Tamara Kalinic stepped out in satin black shorts, which she paired with a matching vest and chunky black boots. Tiffany Hsu added a pop of colour with red unique headwear as she stepped out in a brown raincoat which featured padded shoulders. Nicole Atieno stunned in a blue and grey checked two-piece co-ord which she paired with a blue shirt and red leather shoes. Emili Sindlev cut a casual display in a pair of light blue denim jeans, a satin vest and a black leather trench coat. It comes after Naomi said she had put her wild days behind her as she said she thinks of herself as 'just a mom' while opening up on motherhood. Naomi, who has two young children, is the face of fashion designer Tolu Coker's spring 2026 collection. Instead of stepping out on a catwalk for the project, Naomi and the brand broke with tradition for a cinematic short film which centered around motherhood and black womanhood in fashion. In the two-and-a-half-minute clip, Naomi shares an insight into her life away from the cameras as she explained how she raises her kids - a son and a daughter, who she welcomed via surrogate , in 2021 and 2023. She said: 'I'm just a mom. That's how I kind of think of myself today.' Later in the evening, Naomi switched up her outfit as she attended Twiga club after her outing to Dolce&Gabbana The supermodel stepped out in a pair of black trousers, a black satin vest, a structured black trench coat and a pair of black stilettos Naomi continued: 'Those who know me know that I have a childlike way about me. Those who know me also know that I'm shy. 'But those who know me know more than anything in the world is what I wanted to be was a mother. 'With my kids I am fun, but I'm measured in the sense of discipline. The moral standard of how I was raised in a West Indian Jamaican household.' She added: 'I find myself saying things that my grandmother would say to me. 'I've been mothering for so many decades that it was time to mother my own people that are no longer here that wee a part of my career and they changed how the world viewed women and how we looked and they changed our minds too.' While most of his co-stars are still chasing fame, Love Island Australia's Zac Nunns has been making waves of a very different kind. The TV personality, 26, who shot to notoriety during his stint on the Channel Nine dating show, has revealed he has swapped the bright lights of television for a meaningful role giving back to the community. Zac recently spearheaded a health and well-being initiative with Merri-Bek city's Salvation Army, called Made to Move. 'I recently had the opportunity to run a program called Made to Move for the Merri-Bek Salvation Army,' he told Daily Mail. 'One of the organisers there reached out with the idea of creating a fitness-based program that could bring the community together, and I was tasked with designing and leading it.' The five-week program was far from a typical workout class, with participants ranging from those struggling with mental health, to individuals recovering from substance abuse, to migrants still learning English. Love Island Australia's Zac Nunns has revealed he has swapped the bright lights of television for a meaningful role giving back to the community Zac recently spearheaded a health and wellbeing initiative with the Merri-Bek city's Salvation Army called Made to Move 'What united them was a need for connection, and fitness became the tool we used to build that,' Zac explained. Each week, Zac led sessions built around progressive overload - a method that gradually increased in difficulty while remaining inclusive and safe. At the end of the course, every participant was awarded a certificate of completion. 'It was a proud moment for them and for me,' Zac said. 'The real success, though, was seeing people grow in confidence, connect with others, and feel part of something positive.' The 2023 Love Island finalist admitted the program was unlike anything he had ever done before - but it left a lasting impact. 'For me, it was a rewarding opportunity to bring my expertise into an environment I'm not normally part of. 'It reminded me how powerful fitness can be when it's about more than just training - when it becomes a vehicle for building relationships and supporting people who might not otherwise have access to that kind of community.' Zac added that he hopes similar programs will be rolled out nationwide. Each week, Zac led sessions built around progressive overload - a method that gradually increased in difficulty while remaining inclusive and safe The 2023 Love Island finalist admitted the program was unlike anything he had ever done before - but it left a lasting impact 'I'd love to see programs like this across more Salvation Army and community centres around Australia. The positivity it brought to Merri-Bek was incredible to witness, and it was humbling to be a part of something bigger than myself.' Zac previously made headlines when he announced that he is forging a new path following his stint on reality TV by prioritising authenticity over flashy brand deals. 'I don't want to rely on other people's branding to dictate how I influence people,' Zac said in a candid interview. 'I want to give a message that aligns with my beliefs and helps people. I posted a couple of ads immediately after the show that didn't align with who I was, and I felt dirty afterwards. 'If I influence people, it shouldn't be to buy products that I don't actually use - like most influencers do.' He's now sharing his health and fitness insights with fans, offering practical tips for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. He recommends increasing incidental exercise, explaining: 'Take the stairs instead of the escalator or park further away from the supermarket.' Zac also said it's important to 'include a good source of protein in every meal to support muscle growth and a healthy weight.' It comes after Zac opened up about his tumultuous relationship with his Love Island co-star Lucinda Strafford (pictured) during a recent episode of The Trent and Zac Show podcast 'Ensure each meal has at least three of the five food groups,' he continued. He also explained the benefits of resistance training, adding: 'Commit to 2-3 sessions a week to improve muscle growth, fat loss, and overall quality of life.' It's also important to 'drink 2-3 litres of water daily for better skin, muscle health, and organ function.' Zac also explained the benefits of 'getting eight hours of quality sleep by avoiding screens before bed and incorporating activities like journaling or reading.' He continued: 'Plan your meals the night before to avoid unhealthy temptations.' 'If you're not sure how to structure these changes, a personal trainer can help you set realistic goals and keep you accountable,' Zac added. It comes after Zac opened up about his tumultuous relationship with Love Island co-star Lucinda Strafford during a recent episode of The Trent and Zac Show podcast. He revealed their relationship ended after discovering Lucinda had been communicating with another man during their time together. 'I broke up with her because this is just too much... this isn't what someone who loves me would do,' Zac shared. Daily Mail does not suggest Lucinda was unfaithful to Zac. Sydney Sweeney and Sabrina Carpenter were just a few Hollywood celebrities who reacted to Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco's romantic wedding photos, which were shared to Instagram on Saturday. The weekend extravaganza which is being held in Santa Barbara has already kicked off with special guests such as Taylor Swift arriving to the destination one day earlier. In the sweet post - which has garnered nearly 5 million likes in just one hour - Gomez could be seen wearing a white, halter-styled gown from Ralph Lauren while Blanco also dressed for the occasion in a black tuxedo. Although some reports indicated the pictures were of the wedding, they appear to have been taken at the venue for Friday night's rehearsal dinner - a mansion on a vast 1,863-acre estate in Goleta's tony Hope Ranch neighborhood, nestled in the foothills of the Santa Ynez Mountains. The couple cozied up in the photos and at one point, strolled hand-in-hand as they made their way across the scenic venue. Sweeney and Carpenter were quick to press the like button on the Instagram carousel - with other stars sending congratulatory messages in the comment section. Sydney Sweeney and Sabrina Carpenter were just a few Hollywood celebrities who reacted to Selena Gomez and Benny Blanco's romantic wedding photos Sweeney hit the like button on the singer's post on Saturday - which has garnered nearly 5 million likes in just one hour Camila Cabello penned, 'love looks good on you,' while Amy Schumer added, 'Breathtaking,' followed by a heart-eyed emoji. Gordon Ramsey wrote, 'So happy for the both of you. Congrats! Gx,' and Blanco sweetly shared, 'my wife in real life.' 'Our Mabel is MARRIED,' the official account for the series Only Murders In The Building stated, referencing to Gomez's character in the hit show. Media personality Taylen Biggs commented, 'I love you and so happy for you guys!!!' and Hulu's Instagram page added, 'This is everything and more,' followed by a white heart emoji. Rare Beauty - which was launched by Gomez back in 2020 - also shared, 'So beyond happy for you two.' Gomez is set to marry Blanco at a 70-acre private plantation in Goleta, California, which has been the scene of intense preparations throughout the day. Preparations were also well underway on Saturday afternoon at the $1,000-a-night El Encantato hotel where most of the couple's guests are staying. Exclusive Daily Mail photos showed glammed up guests mingling before boarding a fleet of black Mercedes vans to be driven to the clifftop nursery where the ceremony will take place. In the sweet post - which has garnered nearly 5 million likes in just one hour - Gomez could be seen wearing a white, halter-styled gown from Ralph Lauren while Blanco also dressed for the occasion in a black tuxedo Camila Cabello penned, 'love looks good on you,' while Amy Schumer added, 'Breathtaking,' followed by a heart-eyed emoji Gordon Ramsey wrote, 'So happy for the both of you. Congrats! Gx,' and Blanco sweetly shared, 'my wife in real life' The wedding follows a lavish rehearsal dinner on Friday night which took place at a 10-bedroom mansion in Goletas tony Hope Ranch neighborhood. Guests including Gomez's superstar bestie Taylor Swift and co-star Martin Short were spotted being driven into the palatial property ahead of the event photos of which appeared on the actress' Instagram page earlier today. In them, the Wolves songstress was seen wearing a stunning white halter-neck gown and clutching a bunch of baby's breath flowers while posing for photos with a smitten Blanco. Among the guests spotted piling into the black Mercedes vans heading for the evening ceremony were comedian Eric Andre, 42, and Ed Sheeran's manager Stuart Camp. All eyes are now on the romantic Sea Crest Nursery a 70-acre private plantation in Goleta dotted with palm trees and cycads where a series of vast marquees have been set up and the pair will finally exchange rings. Photos taken by the Daily Mail show tubs of decorative blooms already set up around the tents while a romantic glow will be provided by strings of fairy lights. Security has also been ramped up, with Gomez thought to be ponying up $300,000 to keep her nuptials safe. The starry gathering has seen famous faces jet in from across the country, among them Swift who promised Gomez she would be her flower girl after her engagement was announced. Security has also been ramped up, with Gomez thought to be ponying up $300,000 to keep her nuptials safe The starry gathering has seen famous faces jet in from across the country, among them Swift who promised Gomez she would be her flower girl after her engagement was announced The blonde megastar flew in from Kansas City on Friday and is staying at the glamorous Rosewood Miramar which sits in the swanky celebrity enclave of Montecito. The upscale property boasts rooms overlooking the Pacific and the golden sand of Miramar Beach with the cheapest accommodation starting at $1,014-per-night. Despite the romantic choice of hotel, the stunner's own fiance Travis Kelce was forced to miss out due to the Kansas City Chiefs squaring off against the Baltimore Ravens at the Arrowhead Stadium on Sunday. Gomez and Blanco have had a relatively short engagement and announced they would wed early last December in an Instagram post she captioned: 'Forever begins now.' The sweet post was accompanied by a carousel of photos that included a close-up of her stunning marquise cut solitaire diamond engagement ring. Gomez and Blanco have had a relatively short engagement and announced they would wed early last December in an Instagram post she captioned: 'Forever begins now' Gomez's marriage to Virginia native Blanco marks a new chapter in what was once a turbulent love life that included a high-profile relationship with troubled Canadian singer Justin Bieber; former couple seen in 2011 in L.A. Gomez's marriage to Virginia native Blanco marks a new chapter in what was once a turbulent love life that included a high-profile relationship with troubled Canadian singer Justin Bieber. Although Gomez also met Blanco while she was in her teens, neither remembered the meeting and the pair only became close after collaborating on the March 2019 tune I Can't Get Enough. The video featured Blanco dressed as a white teddy bear and the pair became pals but romance didn't blossom until they worked together on a second aural sensation in Single Soon her August 2023 smash hit. That led to sparks flying and by December the same year, the couple confirmed they were an item with Gomez declaring online of Blanco: '[He is the] best thing that's ever happened to me. The end.' Reese Witherspoon shared a rare photo of her youngest child Tennessee, whom she shares with her ex-husband Jim Toth. The Morning Show actress, 49, took to Instagram to post a snap of her and her son while celebrating his 13th birthday on Saturday. In her caption, she gushed over his 'brilliance' as she marked the milestone occasion of him becoming a teenager. She began: 'How is it possible that my youngest boy is 13?!' 'He never ceases to amaze me with his joyfulness, his brilliant sense of humor and his endless curiosity. I love you so much, Tenn!' In the sweet photo, the Legally Blonde star who was spotted on a rare outing with her financier boyfriend Oliver Haarmann, 57, in London last week and her son posed in front of a scenic view, standing on a balcony overlooking a body of water. Reese Witherspoon shared a rare photo of her youngest child Tennessee, whom she shares with her ex-husband Jim Toth The Morning Show actress, 49, took to Instagram to post a snap of her and her teenage son while celebrating his 13th birthday on Saturday The actress wore a black, polkadot dress with a V-neckline and had pushed back a pair of sunglasses onto the top of her head. At her side, her mini-me kid wore a light blue button-down and khaki pants, and the mother-son duo flashed their identical smiles. In the comments section, many of Witherspoon's celebrity pals, some with young kids themselves, penned sweet messages about the photo. 'How are they teenagers?!?' Sarah Michelle Gellar wrote. Gellar shares two teenage kids with her longtime husband Freddie Prinze Jr. Actress Goldie Hawn also left a note and praised Tennessee's infectious smile and 'joyful face.' Witherspoon is a mother of three, but Tennessee is the only child she shares with her ex-husband Jim. She was married to the talent agent for 12 years before they announced their separation in 2023. Witherspoon shares two adult children daughter Ava, 26, and 21-year-old son Deacon with her first husband Ryan Phillippe. When Witherspoon and Toth finalized their divorce in 2023, they agreed to have joint custody of their now-teenage son and to divide all expenses for Tennessee equally with no child support. Witherspoon is a mother of three, but Tennessee is the only child she shares with her ex-husband Jim Toth. She shares two adult children daughter Ava, 26, and 21-year-old son Deacon with her first husband Ryan Phillippe She was married to the talent agent for 12 years before they announced their separation in 2023 When Witherspoon and Toth finalized their divorce in 2023, they agreed to have joint custody of their now-teenage son and to divide all expenses for Tennessee equally with no child support; pictured February 2017 in Beverly Hills In the wake of their split, sources close to the couple reported that their divorce was 'a long time coming.' An insider told Page Six at the time: 'There's no big scandal or drama, just two people who essentially became coparents and don't really have any romantic feelings for each other anymore.' Since then, she has started dating her financier boyfriend and was spotted on a rare outing together last week for a theater date night in London. A source revealed that Witherspoon is smitten with him, and the couple have a 'very special relationship,' per People. The Morning Show star is in 'such a good place right now,' the insider said. 'Her relationship with Oliver is very special to her. He's not interested in the Hollywood spotlight. He's there for her.' The source also added that her businessman boyfriend is 'very supportive of her,' and her three children 'are doing well.' 'Everything is balanced, and it makes her very happy.' Snoop Dogg left Sydney fans fuming over the weekend after the US rapper turned up several hours late to a highly anticipated gig in the city's northwest. The 53-year-old rap superstar fresh from a blockbuster performance at the AFL Grand Final in Melbourne was billed as the headline act at the Bella Vista Hotel. Promoters hyped the event as a 'once-in-a-lifetime' experience, with tickets selling out within hours earlier this month. But punters who paid anywhere from $80 for general admission to more than $3,000 for VIP booths were left waiting until after 2am - five hours after the doors opened - before the Doggfather finally appeared for a truly bizarre concert. Furious fans took to social media to slam the California Gurls star for his perceived tardiness - as they called for the venue to refund them their money. 'I waited for four hours before I had to leave. Refund,' one heartbroken music lover wrote. Snoop Dogg (pictured) left Sydney fans fuming over the weekend after the US rapper turned up several hours late to a highly anticipated gig in the city's northwest 'Absolute joke. We were told he was a no-show and left. I want a refund,' a second added. 'Snoop "on his way" for past 4.5 hours. Bro, what even,' a third chipped in. When Snoop did eventually hit the decks as his alter-ego DJ Snoopadelic, the Grammy-nominated rapper treated the crowd to a truly bizarre concert, in which he only performed covers and his lesser-known hits. He performed everything from his own hit song Drop It Like It's Hot to a cover of Journey's Dont Stop Believin' and Bob Marley's Three Little Birds. The rapper is also set to perform gigs at Sydney's Greenwood Hotel and Cargo Bar on Sunday night, before leaving the country. The backlash in Sydney came just hours after the California-born rapper was hailed as the King of Rap for his nine-song Grand Final set at the MCG. Nearly 100,000 fans roared as he ripped through classics like The Next Episode, Gin and Juice and What's My Name, with guest appearances by Jessica Mauboy, Baker Boy and Tash Sultana. The veteran performer was hailed as the 'King of Rap' after he took to the stage for the AFL Grand Final on Saturday. The rap superstar fresh from a blockbuster performance at the AFL Grand Final in Melbourne was billed as the headline act at the Bella Vista Hotel Punters who paid anywhere from $80 for general admission to more than $3,000 for VIP booths were left waiting until after 2am before the Doggfather finally appeared The US hip-hop icon ripped through a stunning nine-song set that featured a slew of classics and a few surprises. After a performance from homegrown hip-hop star Baker Boy and the obligatory rendition of the iconic Up There Cazaly from Mike Brady, Snoop wasted no time getting the crowd into the mood. Before the event took to the pitch, Snoop was egging the crowd on from the big screen with the help of a Super Bowl-style marching band and a litany of dancers. Dressed in a crisp white tracksuit bearing his name, Snoop kicked off proceedings with his 1999 collaboration with Dr Dre, The Next Episode. Another Dre collab, Nothing But A 'G' Thang came next, followed by his 2004 Billboard chart-topper Drop It Like It's Hot. Baker Boy later joined the star for a cover of the Dr Dre track Still D.R.E, before the rapper closed the show, with flames shooting metres into the sky, and renditions of his iconic tunes Gin and Juice, and Who Am I (What's My Name). While some viewers had mixed reactions to the star's performance, the commentary online was overwhelmingly positive, with fans taking to social media to hail the star as the 'King of Rap'. The Oasis brothers reportedly won't be celebrating the end of their UK reunion tour together because Liam is worried about losing his voice ahead of the next show. Noel, 58, is said to be throwing a huge celeb party to honour their last Wembley gig in London on Sunday evening, but apparently Liam will not be attending. The brothers, who famously split over a feud which went on for decades, left fans concerned that they wouldn't make it to the end of the tour if they were to get into another row. However, it has been quite the opposite and Noel confessed his love for younger brother Liam after drawing a line under their row and reuniting for a blockbuster world tour. While he was originally involved in the party, he is believed to now be ending the run of UK dates by enjoying a quiet dinner with his fiancee Debbie Gwyther. The band will play a show in South Korea on October 21 and Liam is apparently keen to rest up ahead of the performance. The Oasis brothers reportedly won't be celebrating the end of their UK reunion tour together because Liam is worried about losing his voice ahead of the next show Noel, 58, is said to be throwing a huge celeb party to honour their last Wembley gig in London on Sunday evening, but apparently Liam will not be attending It will mean missing out on partying with the likes of Lady Gaga, Kate Moss, Johnny Depp and Matthew McConaughey, reports the Sun. Their party-loving children Anais, Lennon and Gene are also likely to attend. A source told the publication: 'Liam and Noel had both been planning to throw a party for the final night of the UK tour but Liam's decided to have a low-key celebration with Debbie instead. 'They're planning an early-ish night because he can't afford to get ill or for his voice to be damaged. 'Noel wants Liam to be there but knows so much more is resting on Liam and he needs to take it easy where he can.' Sunday night's performance marks the last time fans can see the two brothers in the UK, but during last night's performance they reveal they would be back. Ahead of the final song, Liam confirmed the band would return next year, telling fans: 'Thank you for keeping the faith. See you next year.' The group has been tipped for a return to Knebworth, the site of their famous 1996 gigs at the festival of the same name in Hertfordshire. The brothers, who famously split over a feud which went on for decades, left fans concerned that they wouldn't make it to the end of the tour if they were to get into another row (pictured September 12 in Mexico City) The highly sought-after concert, which more than two per cent of the UK's population applied for tickets to, saw the band play to some 250,000 people at Knebworth House. Oasis have come back to the UK for two final shows at Wembley as part of their Live '25 tour before they head to Japan, South Korea, Australia and South America. Their return to home turf comes after gigs in Ireland, Canada, the United States and Mexico. The brothers arrived on stage on Saturday hand-in-hand, opening with Hello, from their 1995 album (What's The Story) Morning Glory?, with Liam holding a maraca. He greeted the rapturous crowd, saying: 'Have you missed us?' before launching into anthems that included Some Might Say, Morning Glory and Roll With It. Oasis announced their reunion tour in August last year, 16 years after their dramatic split in 2009. It came after Liam's other brother and fellow bandmate Noel Gallagher, 58, quit following the siblings' backstage brawl at the Rock en Seine festival in Paris. The band also dedicated hit Live Forever to boxer and fellow Mancunian Ricky Hatton, who tragically died earlier this month at the age of just 46. A picture of Hatton was projected onto the screen behind the stage at the end of the track from the band's 1994 album Definitely Maybe, to cheers from the crowd. The band concluded the show with a trio of their best loved songs - Don't Look Back In Anger, Wonderwall and Champagne Supernova. Oasis will return to Wembley for the final UK show of their Live '25 tour on Sunday. Pete Wicks' ex Kayla Wild has claimed that the lothario was a 'cheating narcissist' in a brutal new interview. The OnlyFans model, 37, dated the podcaster and former Strictly star, 36, in 2011 before he found fame on TOWIE in 2015 and has claimed she was treated poorly. She also encouraged anyone currently dating him to 'run for the hills' after he confirmed his romance with Jowita Przysta last week. Pete and Jowita were seen kissing on stage during the Staying Relevant live show but just days before he was seen also locking lips with a mystery blonde during a night out in London. Speaking to The Sun, Kayla claims the bad behaviour he exhibited back then is still repeating itself with his more recent partners which include Jowita and Love Islander Maura Higgins. She claimed Pete 'strung her along for a year' before taking her to a 'public place' to tell her he'd cheated so she 'couldn't make a fuss'. Pete Wicks' ex Kayla Wild has claimed that the lothario was a 'cheating narcissist' in a brutal new interview The OnlyFans model, 37, dated the podcaster and former Strictly star, 36, in 2011 before he found fame on TOWIE in 2015 and has claimed she was treated poorly She claimed to the publication: 'I have never been surprised by the way he's treated so many women - because I know exactly what he is like. 'There were strong narcissistic traits back then. And he hasn't changed or evolved. He repeats the same patterns again and again. 'I would tell any woman who does think about dating him to run for the hills. Dating him is like being on the waltzers, it's a ride that makes you feel sick and he has the control of the button. Good luck on the loop de loop!' She also described their 'cringe' sex life whilst he was still living at home with his mother and how she was surprised when he signed up for TOWIE after always claiming to be a 'private person'. Pete was then linked to a string of women on the reality show including Jess Wright, Megan McKenna and Chloe Sims. Kayla added that she 'holds no grudge' against Pete and is happy he has found success but that he should 'change his ways'. A representative for Pete has been contacted by Daily Mail for comment. It comes after just last week it was revealed that Pete wined and dined a mystery blonde during a night out in London - just days before confirming his relationship with Jowita. She also encouraged anyone currently dating him to 'run for the hills' after he confirmed his romance with Jowita Przysta (seen) last week Pete and Jowita were seen kissing on stage during the Staying Relevant live show but just days before he was seen also locking lips with a mystery blonde during a night out in London Pete, who had previously played down any romantic attachment to his former Strictly Come Dancing partner, surprised fans by sharing three very passionate kisses with the Polish ballroom professional at London's O2 Arena on Friday evening. The popular TV personality was hosting a live version of his Staying Relevant podcast with best friend Sam Thompson when Jowita joined him onstage to perform what would have been their Showdance, during which they appeared to confirm their romance. But notorious lothario Pete had less familiar but equally intimate female company while dining out at The Maine Mayfair earlier that week. Jowita didn't appear to be anywhere in sight as the reality TV regular shared a kiss with his blonde companion over a slap-up meal, in pictures obtained by The Sun. A source told the publication: 'They were intimate the whole time. You would think they were alone. Pete and his date arrived about 8.30pm. It was very intimate and they seemed really giddy. 'At one point they disappeared midway through dinner for about 15 minutes. I think they thought they had the place to themselves. 'The waiters just left them to it and the band just played as they kissed like teenagers. There were lots of leftovers by the time we left about 11:00pm.' Separate sources have since confirmed the TV personality is 'officially dating' Jowita, having grown close on Strictly Come Dancing - while he was rumoured to be in the early stages of a romance with Maura. An insider told the Daily Mail: 'Pete and Jowita are now an item, they've been dating for a few weeks. 'They kept things professional on Strictly, there was no crossover with Maura. But once Pete was single they grew close again and recently the relationship has blossomed into something more. 'You could tell something is going on between them during their routine - it was extremely raunchy and dance partners don't usually kiss quite like that.' The former TOWIE star sent fans into a frenzy when he shared a gushing tribute to Jowita in honour of her birthday last month, leading some to question whether the post was him 'hard launching' their romance. Pete shared a sweet snap of himself and the ballroom professional in a dance studio on his Instagram Stories ahead of her return to Strictly Come Dancing. He included a steamy dance floor snap, a close-up car selfie, a rehearsal snap, and several photos from their nights out together. Alongside the post, he wrote 'It was never about dancing it was about the person. 'Happy birthday @jowitaprzystal - I am so blessed and grateful to have you in my life. My pocket rocket (love heart emoji).' Pete and Love Island star Maura were first linked in August last year, but the former couple went their separate ways in February. She was later seen kissing married McFly star Danny Jones at the BRIT Awards. Speaking to The Sun, Kayla claims the bad behaviour he exhibited back then is still repeating itself with his more recent partners which include Jowita and Love Islander Maura Higgins (seen) At the time, the TV personality distanced himself from the drama this caused by going on his already planned luxury holiday to Dubai. A source told the Daily Mail: 'Pete has moved on and couldn't care less about Maura. He feels indifferent about the drama currently surrounding her. 'He is focusing on himself and enjoying a break in the sun before getting back into work.' The Daily Mail contacted a representative for further comment at the time. Gene and Lennon Gallagher looked bleary eyed as they exited Chelsea nightclub The Rex Rooms on Saturday. Hours before, their dad Liam Gallagher took to the stage at Wembley Stadium alongside his brother Noel as Oasis prepare to wrap up the UK dates on their reunion tour. After the gig, Lennon, 26, and Gene, 24, headed to the lavish Chelsea hotspot for a boozy night out. Lennon prepared for winter as he stepped out for the night in a cream roll neck heavy knit sweater and baggy jeans, as well as a shoulder bag covered in spikes. Meanwhile Gene kept it lowkey in a black sweater and ripped blue jeans, also wearing sunglasses despite it being dark outside. Their appearance came hours after Oasis returned to the UK for two final shows at Wembley as part of their Live '25 tour before they head to Japan and South Korea, Australia and South America. Gene and Lennon Gallagher looked bleary eyed as they exited Chelsea nightclub The Rex Rooms on Saturday Hours before, their dad Liam Gallagher took to the stage at Wembley Stadium alongside his brother Noel as Oasis prepare to wrap up the UK dates on their reunion tour The brothers arrived on stage on Saturday hand-in-hand, opening with Hello, from their 1995 album (What's The Story) Morning Glory?, with Liam holding a maraca. He greeted the rapturous crowd, saying: "Have you missed us?" before launching into anthems that included Some Might Say, Morning Glory and Roll With It. Oasis announced their reunion tour in August last year, 16 years after their dramatic split in 2009 which saw Noel quit following a backstage brawl at the Rock en Seine festival in Paris. The band dedicated hit Live Forever to boxer Ricky Hatton, who died earlier this month at the age of 46. A picture of Hatton was projected onto the screen behind the stage at the end of the track from the band's 1994 album Definitely Maybe, to cheers from the crowd. The band concluded the show with a trio of their best loved songs - Don't Look Back In Anger, Wonderwall and Champagne Supernova. Ahead of the final song, Liam appeared to hint the band will be back for more in 2026 when he told fans: "Thank you for keeping the faith. See you next year." The group has been tipped for a return to Knebworth, the site of their famous 1996 gigs. After the gig, Lennon, 26, and Gene, 24, headed to the lavish Chelsea hotspot for a boozy night out Lennon prepared for winter as he stepped out for the night in a cream roll neck heavy knit sweater and baggy jeans , as well as a shoulder bag covered in spikes Meanwhile Gene kept it lowkey in a black sweater and ripped blue jeans, also wearing sunglasses despite it being dark outside Oasis will return to Wembley for the final UK show of their Live 25 tour on Sunday. But the Oasis brothers reportedly won't be celebrating the end of their UK reunion tour together because Liam is worried about losing his voice ahead of the next show. Noel, 58, is said to be throwing a huge celeb party to honour their last Wembley gig in London on Sunday evening, but apparently Liam will not be attending. The brothers, who famously split over a feud which went on for decades, left fans concerned that they wouldn't make it to the end of the tour if they were to get into another row. However, it has been quite the opposite and Noel confessed his love for younger brother Liam after drawing a line under their row and reuniting for a blockbuster world tour. While he was originally involved in the party, he is believed to now be ending the run of UK dates by enjoying a quiet dinner with his fiancee Debbie Gwyther. The band will play a show in South Korea on October 21 and Liam is apparently keen to rest up ahead of the performance. Gretel Killeen has secured a plum new presenting gig, after it was reported she would not be appearing on the Big Brother revival set to air on Channel Ten this year. The veteran presenter, 63, confirmed she will be hosting the upcoming third series of Network Ten's reality TV series The Traitors, after former host Roger Corser left the network last year. Channel Ten shared the exciting announcement to social media on Sunday, alongside a photo of a radiant-looking Gretel. 'The Traitors is returning to 10 with Aussie legend Gretel Killeen as host!' they began. They then revealed when fans could expect to see the upcoming season. 'Dust off your cloaks, trusty Traitors, and prepare to bury the hatchet... in your closest ally's back. #TheTraitors Australia. Coming to @Channel10AU in 2026.' Gretel Killeen (pictured) has secured a plum new presenting gig, after it was reported she would not be appearing on the Big Brother revival set to air on Channel Ten this year` Gretel shared her excitement about the role in a statement: 'As a writer and performer, I love a new experience. Hosting The Traitors gives me permission to explore an alternate version of myself, full of challenging mischief.' Meanwhile, Tamara Simoneau, Vice President, Content, Paramount Australia, expressed how delighted they were to be working with Gretel. 'There is no one better to bring it to life than the OG of groundbreaking, buzz-worthy reality shows, Gretel Killeen,' they said. 'We are assembling a brilliant cast of the most cunning and clever Aussies, but Gretel is poised to take them on a ride that'll test them like never before. Audiences are going to be on the edge of their seats.' The gig is something of a homecoming for Gretel, who originally hosted Big Brother on Ten from 2001 to 2007, before being replaced by Kyle Sandilands and Jackie 'O' Henderson. The Traitors originally aired on Ten from 2022 to 2023 and was hosted by Aussie actor Roger Corser, who moved to Channel Nine last year. In September 2024, Network Ten dropped a bombshell announcement Big Brother would be returning to the network in 2025 after spending four years on Channel Seven. However, fans may be surprised to learn that familiar faces Sonia Kruger and Gretel Killeen, who previously hosted the show, were never in the running for the hosting gig. The veteran presenter, 63, confirmed she will be hosting the upcoming third series of Network Ten's reality TV series The Traitors , after former host Roger Corser left the network last year The gig is something of a homecoming for Gretel, who originally hosted Big Brother on Ten from 2001 to 2007 An industry insider revealed to Yahoo Lifestyle that neither Sonia nor Gretel were ever considered for the 2025 reboot. While both women are synonymous with past seasons of Big Brother Sonia having hosted its latest run on Channel Seven and Gretel being the original face of the show in the early 2000s Channel 10 opted for something different this time around. 'Network 10 wanted someone fresh that felt similar to the network hiring Gretel back in 2001,' the insider explained. 'Mel Tracina is hoping to bring something unique to the format but her sense of humour, support of women, and not being afraid to take men to task will echo a lot of what Gretel Killeen did with the format.' Fans of the iconic reality series remember Killeen for her sharp wit and fearless hosting style, which became a defining feature of Big Brother in the early years. Nick Knowles's 'terrified' wife Katie was rushed to hospital for emergency surgery this weekend after suffering 'crippling pain' following her hysterectomy. The lingerie business owner, 35 - who is newly married to television presenter Nick, 62 - underwent the procedure in July this year after 'surviving' years of pain due to PCOS and endometriosis. But this weekend she suffered a major setback in her recovery 12 weeks after the surgery as she ended up in A&E. She explained how where her cervix had been sewn up had ruptured, leaving her in pain, bleeding and close to passing out as she admitted it was the 'most terrifying day I've ever had'. After her successful surgery to stitch her back together she said she felt 'sore, bruised and exhausted' and was 'gutted' that her recovery had to start all over again. Katie explained in a lengthy caption: 'The bit where they took my cervix and sealed it up ruptured which basically meant my insides went rogue, with crippling abdominal pains, difficulty breathing, incredibly painful gas, blood like Moses parting the Red Sea, fluid, and even my bowel where it definitely didn't belong. Nick Knowles's 'terrified' wife Katie was rushed to hospital for emergency surgery this weekend after suffering 'crippling pain' following her hysterectomy The lingerie business owner, 35 - who is newly married to television presenter Nick , 62 - underwent the procedure in July this year after 'surviving' years of 'pain' due to PCOS and endometriosis 'Saturday when it happened I was in so much pain I couldn't move or walk and just cried on my own on the kitchen from 2-5.30am. I nearly passed out from the pain. 'Bar the exhaustion and menopause bit, the recovery was finally going well. I was pretty much back to normal - although I started working the day after my hysterectomy, so that clearly didn't help. 'I was rushed in for emergency surgery. I thought it would be lots of waiting round, but they did blood tests, a CT scan, and had me up & ready for surgery in under 10 hours. 'There was talk of my bowel having been perforated, having to have open surgery & another lumbar puncture. I had every situation running through my mind and it was terrifying. They had 3 plans for surgery, and two of them were huge. A team of 6 surgeons and 2 anaesthetists looked after me, and made me feel slightly more at ease, during what was the most painful & terrifying day I've ever had. 'Thankfully the surgeons managed to get me back into theatre, fix everything and stitch me back together. 'I'm very sore, bruised & exhausted, & so gutted that my recovery journey starts all over again now. But thankful it's fixed, because the pain on Saturday night was excruciating!' It comes after Katie revealed her 'body felt completely foreign' back in August as she shared a health update on Instagram after undergoing the hysterectomy. Weeks after the surgery Katie revealed she still 'felt like absolute s***' and had 'gained a stone in six weeks' during her recovery from the hysterectomy. A hysterectomy is a surgical procedure which removes a woman's womb and may also involve the removal of other organs, such as the ovaries. But this weekend she suffered a major setback in her recovery 12 weeks after the surgery as she ended up in A&E She explained how where her cervix had been sewn up had ruptured leaving her in pain, bleeding and nearly passing out as she admitted it was the 'most terrifying day I've ever had' She told fans they are not alone in their recovery as she is also experiencing 'brain fog, constant hot flushes, back pain, exhaustion, anxiety, anger' and many more symptoms. Opening up in a candid post, Katie confirmed to fans that she has 'not bounced back fast' though it may seem it and she is still struggling each day. She said: 'I keep getting messages saying, "Wow, you're out already, you look amazing, you've bounced back so fast." But honestly? It's absolute Instagram propaganda. 'The truth is, I don't recognise myself at all the moment. My body feels completely foreign. 'I've gained a stone in six weeks, I'm constantly bloated, my boobs are bigger and sore, my face looks puffy, my skin and hair are dry. Every time I see my reflection, it feels like a stranger staring back, and I hate it.' She continued: 'On top of that, I can't even exercise to help myself feel better. My consultant has told me I have another month of no baths or gym because of the pain and bleeding. 'That's four more weeks of being stuck in this body I don't feel comfortable in, with no outlet, no way to feel like me again. It's like I'm trapped, waiting for permission to move forward. 'The symptoms are relentless: the brain fog, forgetting names mid-sentence, going to the wrong cinema, snapping at people I love because I'm just so up and down. 'The CONSTANT hot flushes, the 2, 3 & 4 a.m. wake-ups, waking up drenched in sweat, terrible back pain, exhaustion that sits in my bones. And mentally I'm low, anxious, & angry.' She said: 'Yes, I can throw on a dress and lipstick and smile for a picture, but it's smoke and mirrors. Behind it, I feel like absolute s***. It comes after back in August Katie revealed her 'body felt completely foreign' as she shared a health update on Instagram after undergoing the hysterectomy 'I'm sharing this because I don't want anyone scrolling through their feed thinking they're failing because they're not "bouncing back" like I seem to be. I'm not. I'm bleeding, sore, puffy, heavier, grumpy, anxious and lost in a body I don't know or like. 'If you're struggling too, whether it's with recovery, hormones, or just getting through the day, you're not alone. Instagram will show you the highlight reel. But for reals? It's mostly fake news.' Fans took to the comments to praise Katie for sharing the reality of the procedure as many also related to how she was feeling. They wrote: 'I totally feel you. Your words resonated. Take time to heal, physically emotionally and mentally'; 'It's a big op to recover from mentally and physically. As you know I'm a few weeks ahead of you in my recovery, but it's not been easy. I got to 6 weeks and did start to feel a bit more like myself. Totally agree, Not being able to exercise is so hard though. You're doing amazing'; 'Thank you for sharing , I am 4 weeks post op and frustrated at my slow progress but your post has made me realise all I am experiencing is normal. Really helps'; 'Yep this was me. I had to get up and about after 5 days to do the school run but I was not ok, it was like an out of body experience, the hot flushes were the hardest and emotionally I was drained dealing with the 'New me' do not rush the recovery like I had to, take your time'; 'One day at a time, the end result will hopefully be worth all the pain and discomfort you've endured for years'. Katie shared the news of her hysterectomy on social media in July as she snapped a picture in her hospital gown. The candid post saw the mother of two open up about living through almost unbearable pain which left her 'vomiting, curled up in bed and missing out on life'. Katie's caption at the time read: 'I'm 35 and I've just had a hysterectomy. 'I've lived with pcos, endometriosis and adenomyosis since Moses wore short pants. And no, it wasn't 'just a bad period'. 'It was constant hospital trips. Multiple laparoscopies. Bleeding through clothes. Vomiting from the pain. Being curled up in bed, missing out on life. Katie shared the news of her hysterectomy on social media in July 'It was extreme bloating that made me look pregnant. It was migraines, stabbing pains in my legs, butt and stomach. It was chronic fatigue. It was hiding in loos, crying over another ruined day. It was my daughters terrified of getting their periods in case they end up like mummy. 'Years of misdiagnosis & being fobbed off. Told to take painkillers. That it was 'normal.' It wasn't. I've cried on bathroom floors. I've bled through clothes in public. I've had 3 surgeries. I've tried every pill, every patch, every hormone tweak. I've been put on a medical menopause just to get through uni. 'And still the pain came.' Katie - who tied the knot with DIY SOS presenter Nick earlier this year - also spoke about not being able to recognise herself due to the pain her diagnoses brought her. Spider-Man filming resumed in Basingstoke this weekend after Tom Holland suffered a head injury while performing a stunt. The web-slinging superhero took to the streets of the unlikely Hampshire town to shoot a dramatic stunt ahead of the upcoming Marvel movie, set for release in July 2026. The set turned the stretch between Fanum House, the former headquarters of the AA, and Mountbatten House, an office building from the 1970s, into the iconic concrete jungle of New York City. Spider-Man was seen beckoning armed police officers and sliding on a mat along the road while being pulled by a camouflaged army truck. Meanwhile, another shot showed the truck smashing through a set of gates while Spider-Man was surrounded by soldiers armed with prop guns. A film crew watched on while the action-packed shoot took place. Basingstoke was transformed into New York City this weekend as Tom Holland came to town to film the latest instalment of the blockbuster Spider-Man series The web-slinging superhero took to the streets of the unlikely Hampshire town to shoot a dramatic stunt ahead of the upcoming Marvel movie, set for release in July 2026 It is not clear whether it was superstar Tom, 29, donning the outfit or a stuntman taking his place, following the actor's head injury during filming this month. The much-awaited Spider-Man: Brand New Day will also feature Tom's fiancee Zendaya, as well as Mark Ruffalo and John Bernthal. It comes after Tom broke his silence this weekend as he gave a health update. The actor was injured when a stunt went wrong on September 19 while shooting scenes as the beloved Marvel character. Paramedics rushed to the scene at Leavesden Studios in Watford before taking Tom to the hospital for treatment. Filming was halted on the blockbuster for a full week, with insiders insisting it was not possible to shoot scenes in Tom's absence. But on Saturday evening the star shared a video from a recent gala for his parents' nonprofit The Brothers Trust, which he attended with fiancee and co-star Zendaya. Alongside the post, he penned: 'What a night! Another huge success. It comes after Tom broke his silence this weekend as he gave a health update on a head injury while filming a Spider-Man stunt 'The Brothers Trust means more to me than I could possibly say and I have to say a huge thank you to my Mum and her wonderful friends for putting on another incredible night. 'Raising money for fantastic causes and having fun doing it! I'm sorry I had to leave early but I'm feeling better and on the mend. 'A huge thanks to my Dad for taking over after I left. The show got considerably funnier.' It was revealed that the halting of production on Spider-Man's latest film is set to cost a staggering 10.5million as Tom recovered from a mild concussion. Spider-Man: Brand New Day, which is the fourth film in the Multi Cinematic Universe, is believed to cost $200m, approximately 150m. Industry sources said fees associated with production, such as the hiring of studio space, equipment and maintaining sets still stood despite the halting. The movie's star-studded cast also needed to be paid during that time as well as additional accommodation fees as a result of extended stays following the schedule changes. Gary Lucy is said to be 'desperate' to see his daughter Bonnie who he shares with his ex-girlfriend Laura Anderson but insiders have claimed she makes it 'difficult'. It was recently revealed that Laura, 36, and Gary's ex wife Natasha have bonded over their 'shared trauma' over dating the former Hollyoaks star. An insider close to Gary has claimed that Laura has made it tricky for Gary to have a relationship with their daughter. The source told the Mirror: 'Gary would love nothing more than the kids and his parents to have a relationship with Bonnie and also have a relationship himself with his daughter... 'But Laura has made it incredibly difficult for everybody to see Bonnie let alone build a relationship with her.' The Daily Mail have contacted representatives for Gary and Laura. Gary Lucy is said to be 'desperate' to see his daughter Bonnie who he shares with his ex-girlfriend Laura Anderson but insiders have claimed she makes it 'difficult' It was recently revealed that Laura, 36, and Gary's ex wife Natasha have bonded over their 'shared trauma' over dating the former Hollyoaks star (pictured Laura) Laura, shares 23-month-old daughter Bonnie with Gary, 43, whom he split from during her pregnancy. After their daughter was born the pair briefly got back together, before then parting for good. Since then the pair have been engulfed in a war of words with the actor branding the mother of his child a 'narcissist' while she claimed he had not seen their daughter for several months. The latest twist in the tale saw Laura admit Gary's ex, who he split from in 2018 after 14-years of marriage and together share two sons and two daughters, was her 'rock'. Natasha reportedly saw many similarities in Laura's situation to her own and the pair have grown close, branding the soap heartthrob a 'worse than any baddie on TV'. '[Natasha] had a good idea what Gary would do because of her own experience and how traumatising it would be for Laura as she had been through it all with him. The source told The Sun: 'She immediately reached out to Laura and had been a rock to her ever since. The women stick together and make sure their children aren't strangers. 'Both women believe they have suffered and Natasha has found it hard watching how things have been unfolding for Laura. Hes a pinup and a heartthrob and a TV star etc but in real life the women think hes worse than any baddie on TV'. Daily Mail have contacted Gary Lucy and Laura Anderson's representatives for comment. The latest twist in the tale saw Laura admit Gary's ex, who he split from in 2018 and together share two sons and two daughters, was her 'rock' Gary and Natasha pictured 2010) This week Laura showed her support for Natasha by sharing a snap of her and her children, she penned: 'From one proud hard working mother to another @natasha_v_lucy. 'We are lucky to call our beautiful babies siblings. You have been and still continue to be my rock. Bonnie and I love you all'. It comes after Laura revealed her savage nickname for her ex Gary after he branded her a 'narcissist' in a recent online rant. On Sunday, Gary furiously took to Instagram claiming Laura exploits their daughter to 'stay relevant'. And now Laura has responded as she took to her own Instagram Story to share what appeared to be a screenshot of her recent messages with Gary, revealing he is saved on her phone as 'Lucifer'. In traditional Christian theology, Lucifer is the fallen angel who rebelled against God and represents evil, the Devil, or Satan. Laura penned: 'I discuss problems with the Child Maintenance System in the UK.... My ex publicly calls me a Narc.' Sharing a screenshot of the messages she continued: 'I wake up to messages like this.' Gary shares 23-month-old daugher Bonnie with the former Love Island star whom he split from during her pregnancy (pictured together 2023) Natasha reportedly saw many similarities in Laura's situation to her own and the pair have grown close, branding the soap heartthrob a 'worse than any baddie on TV' (pictured 2018) Laura showed her support for Gary's ex wife Natasha by sharing a snap of her and her children, she penned: 'From one proud hard working mother to another @natasha_v_lucy She added: 'Do not feel silenced by bullies. I am not the Narc.' The messages allegedly from Gary read: 'My goodness what a nasty little cretin you are ms Anderson... 'Just been brought to my attention ya latest pathetic beggy posts you've made... this time by someone far closer to your home.... 'If only I could blink and never have to have you anywhere near me or m life again. Wish I could say Nanny Ros and grandad say hi... but they don't... Keep up "the good work"'. Laura has in the past publicly accused Gary of not seeing their daughter for several months. She has also claimed she'd been forced to miss out on work and time with the tot because 'co-parenting and financial support didn't exist'. And following Laura's latest swipe at fathers who 'hide their income', Gary hit back in a furious rant on Sunday. He posted a quote which read: 'The narcissists greatest asset for leverage is a child. Children of narcissists are collateral damage in their game of control'. Before adding: 'Don't forget... exploiting the child for financial gain on socials anything to keeps em "relevant" [sic]'. It comes just days after Laura took to her own Stories with a post which read: 'Explain this CMS ie UK Government. CMS calculation is BEFORE tax on the unemployed (some people paying 40% tax). 'Ltd Companies (ie 1 Director) is calculated on <12k per year regardless of profit/ dividends'. She added: 'And nothing happens if a 'Ltd company' doesn't pay (or hides their income elsewhere)' before asking followers: 'Is the system fair for single parents/ co parents?'. Eric Dane's wife Rebecca Gayheart opened up about how their family is dealing with his 'heartbreaking' ALS diagnosis. This comes after the Grey's Anatomy star, 52, sparked concern with his absence from the Emmys just five months after announcing his ALS diagnosis. She said that their teenage daughters Billie, 15, and Georgia, 13, are talking to therapists as their father battles with the progressive neurodegenerative disease. 'I mean, it's heartbreaking,' she told People in an interview published on Saturday. 'My girls are really suffering, and we're just trying to get through it. It's a tough time.' Though their family is 'really struggling,' she said they are 'taking it day by day.' 'We have some professional therapists who are helping us, and we're just trying to have some hope and do it with dignity, grace and love.' Eric Dane's wife Rebecca Gayheart opened up about how their family is dealing with his 'heartbreaking' ALS diagnosis About her own state of mind, she admitted: 'I don't think I'm at a place yet where I can pull out a positive nugget. I'm not there yet.' The actress, 54, married Dane in 2004. They were married for 14 years before she filed for divorce in 2018; however, the pair later called off the split seven years later. Dane's announcement about his diagnosis came a month after Gayheart requested to dismiss her divorce filing. 'I mean, we're definitely dealing with something that has brought us all together, and Eric will always be my family, whether we're married or not, or living in the same house or not, but yeah, we are closer, but we don't like the reason why,' she said. She added: 'It's a horrible disease, and I wish that there was a cure. I hope they find one soon, because it is just so sad.' Earlier this year, Dane announced he was diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also referred to as Lou Gehrig's disease. ALS is a nervous system disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, leading to loss of muscle control and paralysis as it gets worse over time, per Mayo Clinic. This comes after the Grey's Anatomy star, 52, sparked concern with his absence from the Emmys just five months after announcing his ALS diagnosis She said that their teenage daughters Billie, 15, and Georgia, 13, are talking to therapists as their father battles with the progressive neurodegenerative disease Just months after revealing his diagnosis, the Euphoria star told Diane Sawyer on Good Morning America about how he was processing amid his health battle. 'I wake up every day, and I'm immediately reminded that this is happening. It's not a dream,' he admitted. Earlier this month, Dane was absent from the Emmys despite a previously announced appearance to reunite with his Grey's Anatomy co-star Jesse Williams to present an award. Williams ended up presenting alone onstage and made no mention of Dane's absence. A day later, Dane made a virtual appearance as he revealed he partnered up with the nonprofit organization I AM ALS. In the video, Dane encouraged people to donate for the cause to find a cure. 'I'm Eric, an actor, a father and now a person living with ALS,' he said in the video. The actress, 54, married Dane in 2004. They were married for 14 years before she filed for divorce in 2018; however, the pair later called off the split seven years later. 'We are closer, but we don't like the reason why,' she said; pictured in June 2017 Earlier this month, Dane was absent from the Emmys despite a previously announced appearance. A day later, Dane made a virtual appearance as he revealed he partnered up with the nonprofit organization I AM ALS; pictured in April 2022 'For over a century, ALS has been incurable, and we're done accepting the status quo. We need the fastest path to a cure, and that's why I partnered with I AM ALS on the Push for Progress. Our goal: a billion dollars over the next three years.' He continued: 'Together, we'll renew the landmark law, Act for ALS, give promiting treatments to thousands of patients, like me, and finally, finally, push towards ending this disease.' Act for ALS is a law that was signed in 2021 and is set to expire in 2026. The bill called for the Department of Health and Human Services to help patients receive funding for treatments that would otherwise inaccessible. It also authorized the Food and Drug Administration to dedicate funds to finding a cure. Ewan McGregor's nepo baby daughter Clara put on a leggy display in a red silk dress as she attended the Dolce & Gabbana show during Milan Fashion Week on Saturday. The model, 29, looked phenomenal in the satin number, which was embroidered with large beaded detailing. It featured a short A-line skirt, a bare back and a plunging neckline which showcased her incredible physique. For the glitzy event, she added inches to her physique as she slipped into a pair of black, close-toe stilettos. Clara slicked her raven tresses back into a sleek side-parted up-do as she showcased her quirky collection of tattoos. After Ewan's decision to move to Los Angeles decades ago, it led Clara and her sisters Jamyan and Esther to develop a distinct American twang. Ewan McGregor's nepo baby daughter Clara, 29, put on a leggy display in a red silk dress as she attended the Dolce & Gabbana show during Milan Fashion Week on Saturday The model looked phenomenal in the satin number, which was embroidered with large beaded detailing as she arrived for the event Earlier this year, Clara shared a family video of the moment which she said was the last time she and her sisters had 'British accents'. At the time the video was filmed the girls had been living in London, which had been their home since they were very young. The sweet clip shows a young Clara leading her pyjama-clad siblings in ballet exercises while her sister Esther exclaims 'oh yes, I'm listening!' One after another, the girls then wish their dad goodnight in distinctly English accents that are a world away from their current Californian drawls. Sharing the post with her 130k followers, the model and producer joked that the footage is a relic of 'the good old days' before her family relocated to Los Angeles when she was a teenager. The girls were born in London, but international demand for their father's Scottish charm soon took a toll on their own accents as McGregor's filming schedule drew the family across the globe. The sisters spent three years living in Australia while their father filmed the Stars Wars films and Moulin Rouge, then moved permanently to the States in 2008. Clara lives in New York, where she studied photography and is currently forging her an acting career of her own. For the glitzy event, she added inches to her physique as she slipped into a pair of black, close-toe stilettos Earlier in the night she was seen wearing a black lace bralette which she paired with shorts and high waisted black socks She paired her co-ord with a black jacket, chunky brown boots and toted her belongings around in a brown leather bag While Clara is proud of her transformation over the years, her father has previously faced criticism for abandoning his British roots. 'There's a sense you're turning your back. People in Scotland to this day tell me to remember where I come from,' he told Radio Times. He added: 'I don't need anybody to remind me. It's this feeling of you're not Scottish enough. I'm Scottish wherever I am in the world.' In a bid to reconnect to his native country, the actor returned to Scotland in 2023, accompanied by his second wife Mary Elizabeth Winstead. The pair purchased a 2million home in rural Perthshire, which they spent the past year lovingly restoring. Katie Thurston is speaking out after becoming the target of a cruel online death hoax. The former Bachelorette star, who revealed earlier this year that her breast cancer had advanced to stage four, took to Instagram on Friday to denounce false articles claiming she had died. 'I've seen this article go around before, but something about tonight really f**king pisses me off,' Thurston, 34, said through tears in a Story video. 'It was triggering. I tried to report it [but] there's nothing I can do. I just feel helpless. I'm so mad right now.' Thurston explained she had been stepping back from social media but was alerted to the hoax after receiving a flood of texts and direct messages from acquaintances checking if she was alive. '[If] anyone who works at Facebook has any suggestion on what I can do, please tell me,' she pleaded. The next day, the reality TV alum struck a lighter tone, sharing a tongue-in-cheek sponsored post for a coffin company. Katie Thurston is speaking out after becoming the target of a cruel online death hoax 'It's me on the other side,' she joked. 'I do just want to shout out Facebook for letting my friends, family, [and] myself know that I have passed on.' She ended the video with mock 'updates from heaven,' quipping, 'Just want to let you know things are good. Life is great up here.' Since announcing her diagnosis, Thurston has chronicled both the physical and emotional toll of treatment. In June, she revealed memory loss as a side effect, recalling an incident at customs where she blanked on her travel history. But in July, she was able to share encouraging news: 'Today the scans confirmed the tumors are SHRINKING!! This is amazing news and I am so relieved!' she wrote on Instagram. Thurston, who married comedian Jeff Arcuri in March, has continued to be candid with her 1.1 million followers, vowing to raise awareness while fighting her own battle. In March, she revealed her breast cancer had spread to her liver. Despite the scary health diagnosis, Thurston shared that she is 'optimistic' as the cancer was caught early on. 'I know stage four can sound very scary, and it can be,' she said. 'However, given that I am triple positive and the spots on my liver are fairly small and detected early, I feel very optimistic on my outcome.' The former Bachelorette star, who revealed earlier this year that her breast cancer had advanced to stage four, took to Instagram to denounce false articles claiming she had died 'I've seen this article go around before, but something about tonight really f**king pisses me off,' Thurston, 34, said through tears in a Story video. 'It was triggering' (seen in May 2025) She also expressed feeling 'very confident' with her doctors and medical team. In her caption, she wrote, '43 days since diagnosis and still no treatment? There is a lot of testing and prep that goes into cancer treatment. One important test is checking to see if the cancer has metastasized (spread). Unfortunately for me, mine has and I am now #stage4breastcancer.' Thurston also answered some questions from fans on her Stories. When asked 'how scared are you?' she answered: 'Scared: 0, Sad: 7, Pain: 5, Tired: 10, Ready: 100.' One fan asked the reality star whether she needs to have a mastectomy. 'That'll be a choice down the road,' she wrote, adding, 'Given my circumstances I'll probably opt for a double mastectomy with breast reconstruction which is covered by insurance. Some options are implants or DIEP Flap (which uses my own fat).' Thurston also shared two photos of herself in a hospital bed. One featured a lengthy caption. 'Today I would have finally started treatment. But instead I have an appointment to discuss the suspicious spot found on my liver during my PET scan. And after that meeting, while still digesting the information, I'm heading to CNN for another interview. Why? Because this needs to be talked about more.' 'Whatever is happening amongst younger women is scary. It's not normal. And current medical standards haven't shifted when it comes to mammogram schedules, leaving women to find out later about their diagnosis,' she went on. 'Last summer when I first felt that lump, I would have been more proactive had I known there was a rise in young breast patients happening. Shout about it to your sister, your friend, your co-worker, your significant other.' Since announcing her diagnosis, Thurston has chronicled both the physical and emotional toll of treatment Another fan asked, 'What is the treatment plan for your liver?' Thurston replied: 'The plan is essentially the same as my breast cancer. The cancer that is within the liver is from the breast cancer spreading vs a new type of cancer. So in basic terms, my breast cancer is the root and will be the focus. Six rounds of chemotherapy to start.' Someone else asked her about the first thing she'll do after she rings 'the bell' - a symbolic and celebratory tradition that marks the completion of a phase of treatment, most commonly chemotherapy or radiation therapy. 'Jeff and I are re-doing our trip to Maui and to the fullest. We were in Maui when I got the call and it really stole the trip from us,' she replied. Another person asked, 'Who will go to appointments with you when hubby is back on tour?' Thurston wrote: 'My treatment is spaced out as six treatments to start, three weeks apart. A treatment is essentially a dedicated day to travel/infusions/recovery. He will probably miss the first three but the good news is, if I'm up for it, I can still travel to where he is as early as the next day.' As for how this has impacted her views on mortality and life, Thurston wrote: 'I know long term, a lot will change for me. In the immediate mindset, I've been both pleased and disappointed by who I have and haven't heard from.' She added, 'Ultimately, not everyone is meant to be in your life forever. Some people are simply a season. Thank them for their time and move onward.' Thurston, who married comedian Jeff Arcuri in March, has continued to be candid with her 1.1 million followers, vowing to raise awareness while fighting her own battle A few days prior Thurston told fans that her doctor discovered spots on her liver. Thurston had no family history of cancer when she was diagnosed on February 13 after discovering a painful lump in her breast, and she was originally scheduled to begin the I-Spy breast cancer trial this Friday. 'My [liver] biopsy is scheduled Friday which would have been my treatment day,' Thurston wrote in her members-only Boobie Broadcast channel on Monday. 'We now wait. She seemed to be leaning more on the cancer in the liver vs. optimistic. This would put me at stage 4. I'd love to hear from my sisters who are stage 4 in terms of quality of life, motherhood, etc.' The standup comedian's I-Spy breast cancer trial was set to include a Zoladex injection to reduce the size of tumors, multiple rounds of chemotherapy, and surgery but everything is on hold until the results of her biopsy. Life is happening at warp speed for Thurston and the standup comedian, who connected via Instagram a year ago, got engaged five months later, and tied the knot last Saturday during an intimate backyard ceremony with their parents. Thurston and Arcuri have also adopted rescue dog Charlie from Best Friends New York and did a round of IVF at fertility center RMA of New York so they can eventually start a family. 'We dedicated two weeks before doing anything else breast cancer wise to doing IVF,' the Washington State native told Us Weekly on Sunday. 'A lot of women don't even realize that you can take 10 days to dedicate time to your reproductive health and your future family plans. We were able to retrieve 17 eggs and of those 17, six became embryos.' Thurston noted: 'He's been to every single appointment with me so far. He's done every single shot that's involved with IVF.' Thurston gushed about how Jeff is 'great at matching my energy' and keep things light and playful when she needs it. Katie first garnered national attention as a contestant on season 25 of The Bachelor, and subsequently starred in season 17 of The Bachelorette; seen in a still from The Bachelorette '[Our wedding] was this kind gesture of him saying, truly, in sickness and in health,' The Bachelor #25 contestant marveled. 'He is proving that he's here to stay. He shows up every day and he does it in ways that just continue to surprise.' Arcuri - who's next performing April 3 in Tennessee - will be spending most of the year traveling as his tour is booked through October 23. Thurston was a bank marketing manager when she first competed for the heart of Bachelor #25 Matt James in 2021 before immediately scoring her Bachelorette spin-off where she romanced fiance Blake Moynes for six months and John Hersey for seven months. Cate Blanchett led the celebrities attending the Armani show during Milan Fashion Week on Sunday, with the occasion paying tribute to the late designer. The presentation, which honoured the brand's 50th anniversary, showcased Giorgio's final creations after he passed away peacefully on September 4 with the fashion house describing their 'infinite sorrow' at his loss. In celebration of one of the most influential and globally famous designers of the late 20th century, the courtyard of the Pinacoteca di Brera Museum was lined with candles in an emotional statement. Attending the show, Cate, who had been dressed by Giorgio throughout her career, was joined by Eiza Gonzalez and Nathalie Emmanuel. The actress, 56, wore a structured black and gold jacket, teaming her look with wide leg trousers and black stiletto heels. Eiza, 35, wore a beaded collared jacket with a coordinating pair of straight leg trousers and heels. Cate Blanchett led the celebrities attending the Armani show during Milan Fashion Week on Sunday as they paid tribute to the late designer Attending the show, Cate was joined by Eiza Gonzalez (L) and Nathalie Emmanuel (R) The presentation, which honoured the brand's 50th anniversary, showcased Italian fashion designer Giorgio's final creations after he passed away peacefully at home on September 4 (Armani is pictured here during One Night Only series in Dubai on October 26, 2021) Actress Nathalie, 36, opted for a strapless tapestry gown with a long fur coat draped over her shoulders. They were joined at the event by Vogue's Global Editorial Director and Chief Content Officer for Conde Nast, Anna Wintour, 75, who wore all-white. Giorgio's niece Silvana Armani and the historic collaborator Leo Dell'Orco greeted the audience at the end of the Giorgio Armani collection show Carlo Capasa, president of the Italian Fashion Chamber, confirmed the Armani show would be taking place in a statement released earlier this week. He stated: 'We will celebrate Milan Fashion Week by paying tribute to one of its founders, Giorgio Armani, and to his creative, entrepreneurial and personal legacy, so valuable in this transformation period the fashion industry is going through.' Armani died just weeks ahead of the planned 50th anniversary celebration During his 50 years at the pinnacle of fashion, he left an indelible mark, reinventing officewear for men and women in the 1980s, pioneering the concept of 'stealth wealth' in the 1990s and dominating the red carpet until the very end. A spokesperson for the company added: 'Today, with deep emotion, we feel the void left by the one who founded and nurtured this family with vision, passion, and dedication.' In celebration of his life, the courtyard of the Pinacoteca di Brera Museum was lined with candles while the fashion house described their 'infinite sorrow' at his loss Cate wore a structured black and gold jacket with wide leg trousers Eiza, 35, wore a beaded collared jacket with a coordinating pair of straight leg trousers and heels Actress Nathalie, 36, opted for a strapless tapestry gown with a long fur coat draped over her shoulders Eiza has her hair pulled back into a sleek bun and opted for a very subtle makeup look They were joined at the event by Vogue's Global Editorial Director and Chief Content Officer for Conde Nast, Anna Wintour, 75, who wore all-white Giorgio's niece Silvana Armani and the historic collaborator Leo Dell'Orco greeted the audience at the end of the Giorgio Armani collection show LaTanya Richardson, Spike Lee and Samuel L. Jackson were seated on the front row Spike Lee wore a metallic blazer with a black beret Cate was joined after the show by Afef Jnifen The duo shared a hug as the event got underway Samuel L. Jackson opted for a navy tuxedo with a silk bow tie Richard Gere wrapped an arm around his wife Alejandra Silva as they took their seats The actor greeted the crowds outside the venue when he left Armani had been CEO and creative director up until his death and said in his last interview: 'My greatest weakness is that I am in control of everything.' The self-confessed workaholic, who was involved in every aspect of shows, had previously revealed how his biggest regret in life was 'spending too many hours working and not enough time with friends and family'. Armani, who dressed celebrities including Julia Roberts, George Clooney, Cate Blanchett and Lady Gaga, was famous for his relaxed tailoring. But his influence extended far beyond the red carpet. His suits also featured in a series of memorable films over the years; he dressed Richard Gere in American Gigolo (1980), Robert De Niro in Goodfellas (1990) and Leonardo DiCaprio in The Wolf Of Wall Street (2013). He was the most successful Italian fashion designer in history, as well as its most successful entrepreneur, as sole shareholder in an empire that expanded far beyond the catwalk. His tireless drive and ambition saw him preside over Giorgio Armani, menswear label Emporio Armani and his diffusion line Armani Exchange, with a couture line, Armani Prive, launched in 2005. An early adopter of the concept of brand extension, he also pioneered Armani Casa, Armani Beauty and Armani Hotels and Resorts, as well as putting his name to art exhibitions, live music performances, sporting events and even chocolates. Fellow Italian fashion designer Donatella Versace said the 'world had lost a giant today'. Writing on Instagram, she said: 'He made history and will be remembered forever.' Eiza posed for a photo with Bianca Balti James Norton opted for a classic black tuxedo and tie for the show The actor shielded his eyes with sunglasses as he departed the show Mohammed Al Turki joined Nathalie for a photo Glenn Close wore a black suit with a white silk shirt Jesse Williams looked smart in a tuxedo with a pinstriped satin shirt Models walked the runway in purple beaded gowns with cut-out sections Leslie Bibb flashed a smile wearing a plunging beaded gown Madonna's son Rocco Ritchie was in attendance Santo Versace mingled with guests after the show Glenn sat by Lauren Hutton for the show James sat with Eiza and former fashion model Marisa Berenson Lauren wore an all-white suit Film producer Aurelio De Laurentiis was in attendance with his wife Jacqueline Baudit Armani's funeral will be private, the group said, but well-wishers can pay respects beforehand at a funeral chamber open on Saturday and Sunday in Milan. 'Il Signor Armani, as he was always respectfully and admiringly called by employees and collaborators, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loved ones,' the company said. 'Indefatigable to the end, he worked until his final days, dedicating himself to the company, the collections, and the many ongoing and future projects,' the company said. Armani had cancelled his menswear show in Milan this year due to health reasons. He also missed the Paris Armani Prive show on doctors' orders. He directed a couture show in Paris, titled Noir Seduisant in July 2025, remotely from Milan due to a short illness. 'In 20 years of Armani Prive, it's the first time I'm not in Paris,' he said in a statement in July. My doctors advised more rest, even though I felt ready.' He added that he had 'followed and overseen every aspect of the show remotely', stressing: 'I approved and signed off on everything you will see.' Giorgio said in January that 'taking a step back in the near future [was] inevitable' but he would 'continue as long as my health and energy permits'. In October last year, Armani said he planned to retire within 'two to three years'. He said in an interview published in Italy's Corriere della Sera newspaper that he has restless nights in which he dreams of a future in which 'I no longer have to be the one who says 'Yes' or 'No'.' The Italian icon was credited with inventing red-carpet fashion, but also moved into a younger and less expensive range through Emporio Armani, and opened luxury hotels. Armani pictured in Rome, Italy, in July 1987. He died just weeks ahead of a planned 50th anniversary celebration set to take place at Milan fashion week During his 50 years at the pinnacle of fashion, he left an indelible mark, reinventing officewear for men and women in the 1980s, pioneering the concept of 'stealth wealth' in the 1990s Armani had been CEO and creative director up until his death and said in his last interview: 'My greatest weakness is that I am in control of everything' Italy's Culture Minister Alessandro Giuli led the tributes, paying homage to 'a leading figure in Italian culture, who was able to transform elegance into a universal language'. 'His understated and innovative style redefined the relationship between fashion, cinema, and society, leaving an indelible mark on contemporary culture,' he said. 'He was not only a master of fashion, but also a recognised ambassador of Italian identity around the world.' Armani also dressed some of the most iconic characters in Hollywood with his creations seen in The Wolf of Wall Street, Batman's The Dark Knight, and American Gigolo. He was synonymous with modern Italian style and elegance. He combined the flair of the designer with the acumen of a businessman, running a company that turned over some 2.3 billion euros ($2.7 billion) a year. He had been unwell for some time, and was forced to drop out of his group's shows at Milan's Men's Fashion Week in June, the first time in his career that he had missed one of his catwalk events. Richard Gere looked happier than ever with his wife Alejandra Silva as they attended the Giorgio Armani fashion show during Milan Fashion Week on Sunday. The Pretty Woman actor, 75, cut a dapper figure in a sharp black tuxedo as he sat front row with Alejandra, 42. Alejandra stunned in a sheer sparkly silver dress as she slipped into a pair of pointed stilettos for the star-studded runway event. She accessorised her glamourous ensemble with a pair of silver dangly earrings and a diamond bracelet. The pair looked smitten together as they sat front row hand-in-hand ready to watch the new Spring/Summer 2026 collection. The show, which was also attended by Cate Blanchett, Anna Wintour and Eiza Gonzalez, paid tribute to the late designer Giorgio Armani, following his death on September 4 at the age of 91. Richard Gere, 75, looked happier than ever with his wife Alejandra Silva, 42, as they attended the Giorgio Armani fashion show during Milan Fashion Week on Sunday The Pretty Woman actor cut a dapper figure in a sharp black tuxedo as he sat front row with Alejandra for the star-studded show Richard tied the knot with Alejandra in 2018, and the couple share sons Alexander, six, and James, five. The Primal Fear actor is also father to son Homer, 25, whom he shares with ex-wife Carey Lowell. Silva has another son named Albert, 12, from a previous relationship. It comes after Richard and Alejandra shared their plans to relocate to Spain together. While talking to Elle Espana earlier this year in January, Richard and Alejandra opened up about the big move. 'The truth is that you are seeing us in our momentum. We are happier than ever,' the Hollywood star expressed. Silva also gushed, 'We are like soulmates. We have the same values, we see the world in the same way and from the first moment we felt like we have known each other for a long time. And this only happens once, if it happens at all.' In regards to how they have all settled in Spain with their children, Alejandra stated, 'Richard is a very devoted and present father. He loves to read them stories. 'It seems like an idyllic photo, but it's true. He's a great dad. He doesn't cook. I do it, but when I cook, he plays the guitar.' Alejandra stunned in a sheer sparkly silver dress as she slipped into a pair of pointed stilettos She accessorised her glamourous ensemble with a pair of silver dangly earrings and a diamond bracelet The pair looked smitten together as they sat front row hand-in-hand ready to watch the new Spring/Summer 2026 collection Late last year in November, Gere explained why he and his family have chosen to relocate to his wife's home country while on The Tonight Show With Jimmy Fallon. 'My wife is Spanish and she gave me about seven years here, so we're going to spend some years in Madrid with her family.' The star also told the late-night talk show host, 'Our kids are bilingual, so they're going to flourish there.' A few months earlier in March, Silva paid a special tribute to Richard as he celebrated his first 'Spanish Father's Day.' She uploaded a sweet photo as the actor talked to their three youngest kids and added the caption: 'Happy 1st Spanish Father's day to the best dad of the world.' However, in April - it was revealed that the couple and their children have plans to still return to the U.S. Alejandra shared the big news while exclusively talking to DailyMail.com at the City Harvests Presents The 2025 Gala. 'For a few years [we'll live in Spain], and then come back. But we're always coming back.' The activist added, 'We'll come back here in the summer because we have the kids at camp. We just have to balance our lives there and here. 'I'm with my family ... I missed them a lot. But I miss the U.S. So we come back and forth.' Gere also still has projects under his belt such as the upcoming romantic comedy titled The Making Of. The film - which is still in its pre-production stages - additionally stars Blake Lively, Diane Keaton and Lin-Manuel Miranda. The premise is: 'Long-married filmmakers have cast overemotional actors to portray their younger selves in the story of their great love. Unfortunately, by the time shooting begins, their fabled marriage is unraveling,' per IMDB. Emily Ratajkowski put on a sultry display in lingerie-clad thirst traps she posted on social media over the weekend. On Sunday, the 34-year-old model took to Instagram to share a couple of sexy snapshots and showed off her toned physique while modeling Lounge lingerie. In one photo, she flaunted her famous curves in a hot pink, sheer bra with floral embroidery paired with the matching bottoms and a garter belt. She was lying in bed in one photo, and in another, she posed on the floor in front of a door. A second snap showed the Gone Girl actress who wore a dominatrix-inspired, criss-cross leather bra top with sheer capri pants in one of her latest posts saw her in a brown, lace lingerie set as she posed with her hair cascading around her on the floor. Her dark brunette tresses were styled in bombshell waves, and she rocked a sun-kissed and bronzed makeup look with a rosy flush on her cheeks. Emily Ratajkowski put on a sultry display in lingerie-clad thirst traps she posted on social media over the weekend Her post comes just days after she was spotted partying with Charli XCX in Sicily after attending the pop star's wedding in Italy. For her friend's wedding celebration, she did not appear to have brought along her four-year-old son Sylvester Apollo Bear, whom she shares with her ex-husband Sebastian Bear-McClard. Ratajkowski and the Independent Spirit Award-nominated producer's four-year marriage ended in 2022 amid a slew of sexual misconduct allegations from actresses, but their divorce wasn't finalized until July. Just earlier this month, Ratajkowski was spotted canoodling with Caught Stealing actor Austin Butler at the Waverly Inn in Manhattan's West Village close to her apartment, hinting at her latest romance. Ratajkowski previously enjoyed 'situationships' with French comedian Stephane Bak, Grammy winner Harry Styles, DJ Orazio Rispo, comedian Eric Andre, SNL alum Pete Davidson, artist Jack Greer, and Oscar winner Brad Pitt. Her latest social media posts and rumored romance come shortly after she revealed she would be doing a career pivot. In August, Ratajkowski announced she'll make her screenwriting debut and star in A24's untitled drama series for Apple TV+ exploring female identity and modern motherhood with Too Much creator Lena Dunham and author Stephanie Danler. 'Lena was the first person who published my writing, on Lenny Letter, but she knew about me from Instagram,' she told Variety in July. On Sunday, the 34-year-old model took to Instagram to share a couple of sexy snapshots and showed off her toned physique while modeling Lounge lingerie Recently, the model announced she would be taking on venturing into another career field She has also been rumored to be dating Austin Butler after they were spotted at a bar together last monthThe video vixen is also an entrepreneur with her own swimwear brand Inamorata, which she co-founded with Kat Mendenhall in 2017. However, the brand hasn't updated their Instagram account since June 2024 'I've had a lot of experiences, with Lena specifically, where she has seen past surface level things and given me so many opportunities.' Ratajkowski is also every bit the influencer with paid partnerships for brands like Chopard, Le Collectionist, Cap Juluca, Kerastase and Kurt Geiger. The video vixen is also an entrepreneur with her own swimwear brand Inamorata, which she co-founded with Kat Mendenhall in 2017. However, the brand hasn't updated their Instagram account since June 2024. She first found fame as a topless model in Robin Thicke and Pharrell Williams' 2013 music video for Blurred Lines. Maura Higgins displayed her sizzling physique in a racy black co-ord as she posed for stunning snaps while filming Love Island Games in Fiji on Sunday. The Irish TV star, 34, is currently hosting the post-show recap of the Love Island spin-off, which kicked off on 16 September. The Love Island bombshell - who shot to stardom on the ITV dating show in 2019 - flaunted her curves and washboard abs in a tiny black top. Twirling around for the camera, Maura wore a matching skirt which featured a semi-sheer panel with a dazzling embellishments, wearing both pieces from Georgian designer David Koma. The I'm A Celebrity favourite slicked her chocolate tresses in a high ponytail and wore dainty jewellery to complete the show-stopping look. On her Instagram Stories, Maura also shared a hilarious blunder from the behind-the-scenes photoshoot. Maura Higgins, 34, displayed her sizzling physique in a racy black co-ord as she posed for stunning snaps while filming Love Island Games in Fiji on Sunday The Love Island bombshell - who shot to stardom on the ITV dating show in 2019 - flaunted her curves and washboard abs in a tiny black top In the clip, the reality stunner looked visibly annoyed as she tried to fight off a fly, and poked fun to her I'm A Celeb stint by writing: 'And I did the jungle.' Her gig as Love Island Games host comes just days after her ex Pete Wicks grabbed headlines. The TOWIE hunky, 36, was kissing Strictly pro dancer Jowita Przystal onstage at the O2, who he was linked to around the time he was dating Maura. But Maura appears to be unfazed by it all. She split from Pete in February claiming she had found messages from other women in his phone. Last week, Maura's journey to the Fiji Islands was thwarted when her Apple AirTag - a device used to track belongings - alerted her to the absence of her luggage. Having landed at LAX Airport, Maura, who previously acted as the show's social media ambassador, revealed she had been informed that her bag arrived at the carousel but was not present - indicating the luggage was stolen. Maura initially gave a swanky glimpse into her journey, posting an image from the plane featuring her Hermes Birkin, a Louis Vuitton vanity case and diary and her Chanel sunglasses with a glass of wine. Yet things took a turn for the worse, when she began documenting her panic and admitted she was suffering from anxiety due to the gaffe as she was due to start working as soon as she landed in the South Pacific. Twirling around for the camera, Maura wore a matching skirt which featured a semi-sheer panel with a dazzling embellishments The Irish TV star is currently hosting the post-show recap of the Love Island spin-off, which kicked off on 16 September The I'm A Celebrity favourite slicked her chocolate tresses in a high ponytail and wore dainty jewellery to complete the show-stopping look The Glow Up Ireland sensation wore both pieces from Georgian designer David Koma In a hilarious clip from her Instagram Stories, Maura looked visibly annoyed as she tried to fight off a fly, and poked fun to her I'm A Celeb stinti writing: 'And I did the jungle' It comes after Maura's ex Pete Wicks kissed Strictly pro dancer Jowita Przystal while onstage at the O2 Arena last week Maura's work trip was thrown into chaos on Monday, as she alleged her luggage had been stolen at LAX airport as she headed to Fiji to present Love Island Games' sister show As well as the image of her luxury goods, she shared a selfie showing her with a face mask alongside the caption: 'Here's me for the next 25 hours. Hair mask, bio collaged hair mask, oil all over body' - prior to her worries beginning. Following her selfies, Maura then shared an image of her lost luggage alert. Alongside the screenshot of her AirTag alert, Maura penned: 'Oh brilliant. Now I have to sit on this flight riddled with anxiety until I land in LAX.' After landing in LAX, she then revealed her bag had apparently landed in the States -but had been stolen from the carousel. Speaking to the camera, she said: 'So everyone in my DMs is like don't worry the airtag normally does that its probably on the flight. No, it's not... 'Actually they're telling me that it was on the conveyor belt so it looks like it's been stolen. Stolen! Stolen! I have work when I land. I have work'. She penned a caption on top of the video reading: 'Why would they give me more anxiety by telling me someone has took it!! Everyone has left the conveyor belt and I'm just here like... I'M JUST A GIRL that needs her hair extensions and fake tan. Big Brother made its long-awaited return to ITV2 on Sunday night, however one housemate's stint on the show will be shorter than most, with it revealed they would be evicted on the very first night. The dramatic live launch saw returning hosts AJ Odudu, 37, and Will Best, 40, introduce the 12 contestants who would be battling it out for the 100,000 prize. In what's been dubbed the show's youngest lineup in history, the kooky hopefuls including a trans personal trainer, a Tory who was wrongly accused of throwing a milkshake at Nigel Farage and a Christian who 'sees dead people'. Viewers were left on the edge of their seats as each housemate was presented with a mysterious eye upon their arrival with a promised twist ahead. An online vote was then opened for fans to choose who should be given the 'Evil eye', putting them at risk of eviction, though fans will have to wait until Monday night's episode to see who was evicted. Until then, here are the housemates taking part in Big Brother 2025... Big Brother made its long-awaited return on Sunday night, however one housemate's stint on the show will be shorter than most, with it revealed they would be evicted on the first night The dramatic live launch saw returning hosts AJ Odudu, 37, and Will Best, 40, introduce the 12 contestants who would be battling it out for the 100K prize in the original social experiment Dua Lipa fanatic and Pizza shop manager Gani said he would like to 'known by millions' and has already had a crack at an acting career before heading into Big Brother He said: 'I see this as an opportunity not only for my personal growth, but also to help build the future of my personal brand' He said: 'I see this as an opportunity not only for my personal growth, but also to help build the future of my personal brand' GANI Age: 39 From: South London Occupation: Pizza restaurant manager Dua Lipa fanatic and Pizza shop manager Gani said he would like to 'known by millions' and has already had a crack at an acting career before heading into Big Brother. He said: 'I see this as an opportunity not only for my personal growth, but also to help build the future of my personal brand'. Asked what why he'd be nominated by fellow housemates Gani mused: 'When Im triggered, I can raise my voice, and the other housemates may think that I'm being rude. Itll either be that or that Im speaking too much'. Cameron described himself as an 'old soul' and an 'introvert' who was much more at home on his farm tending to his animals 'I think Ill be quite different than the Housemates as I suspect there isnt another sort of country bumpkin-esque figure and I'm quite looking forward to meeting new people' Boasting a flashy fridge in his tractor he said he hoped his appearance would help fly the flag for British farmers after previously attending anti tax change protests CAMERON Age: 22 From: Taunton Occupation: Farmer Cameron described himself as an 'old soul' and an 'introvert' who was much more at home on his farm tending to his animals. 'I think Ill be quite different than the Housemates as I suspect there isnt another sort of country bumpkin-esque figure and I'm quite looking forward to meeting new people.' Boasting a flashy fridge in his tractor he said he hoped his appearance would help fly the flag for British farmers after previously attending anti tax change protests. 'I'm looking forward to a whole new experience. I do want to get past the first week and Id quite like to do an eviction. Im looking forward to going into the Diary Room to say who I want to nominate.' Pansexual Nancy was born in Italy but grew up in Glasgow and can speak a whopping five languages, opting for Italian when she wants to flirt Asked what she will bring to the house the stunner said: 'Definitely being Italian, my fiery side. I'm very energetic, always talking' However Nancy confessed that she can be a 'bit much' which could see her facing eviction and admitted she signed up for the show after feeling 'lost' in life NANCY Age: 22 From: Glasgow Occupation: Graduate Pansexual Nancy was born in Italy but grew up in Glasgow and can speak a whopping five languages, opting for Italian when she wants to flirt. Asked what she will bring to the house the stunner said: 'Definitely being Italian, my fiery side. I'm very energetic, always talking, using my hands to talk and do things. I like to get up and dance and sing, I'm very up for that throughout the day.' However Nancy confessed that she can be a 'bit much' which could see her facing eviction and admitted she signed up for the show after feeling 'lost' in life. 'I'm looking forward to discovering myself even more and seeing how I can connect with people that are different to me.' Caroline revealed after working with the likes of Kylie Minogue that her PR business wasn't doing well after she moved from London to Yorkshire She made a very dramatic entrance in a white faux fur coat and sequinned cowboy hat but admitted she was more of a 'loner' than a 'social butterfly' Asked what she's spend the prize on Caroline confessed : 'I need to get some new patio doors. I need my house painted. I'd like a new front door. I need my shower mended' CAROLINE Age: 56 From: Canvey Island Occupation: PR Kooky Caroline made a very dramatic entrance in a white faux fur coat and sequinned cowboy hat but admitted she was more of a 'loner' than a 'social butterfly', a fact she said would surprise her fellow housemates. She revealed after working with the likes of Kylie Minogue that her PR business wasn't doing well after she moved from London to Yorkshire. 'I went to the job centre and the woman looked at my CV and said, "You should do something on the telly. You should write a book. You should go on social media, do videos. Youre too good to sit in an office, you've got too much going for you".' Asked what she's spend the prize on Caroline confessed : 'I need to get some new patio doors. I need my house painted. I'd like a new front door. I need my shower mended. All the stuff that I've neglected while I haven't had a job.' Trans personal trainer Zelah said he hoped his appearance on the show would help show viewers that being transgender was 'not a choice' The hunk boasts a whopping 85K followers on TikTok where he shares his workout videos with fans, admitting ahead of his entrance that he could be 'little bit unbearable' without the gum Asked what he'd spend the prize on, Zelah said: 'I've had a few thoughts about this - I think the biggest thing would be that Id contribute towards my business - training LGBT people' ZELAH Age: 25 From: South London Occupation: Personal trainer Trans personal trainer Zelah said he hoped his appearance on the show would help show viewers that being transgender was 'not a choice'. The hunk boasts a whopping 85,000 followers on TikTok where he shares his workout videos with fans, admitting ahead of his entrance that he could be 'little bit unbearable' without the gym. Asked what he'd spend the prize money on, Zelah said: 'I've had a few thoughts about this - I think the biggest thing would be that Id contribute towards my business - training LGBT people and women.' 'On a smaller note, Id like to take my girlfriend on a really lovely holiday to say sorry for leaving her while Im in the Big Brother House.' Teja runs a cleaning company with her mum and said she wouldn't be shy about holding back when it came to messy housemates Asked what would cause her to receive nominations she said: 'Probably being loud. I think Im alright to live with, but I can be a bit loud' She admitted that she had signed up for Big Brother purely for the cash after saving for a home since the age of just 11 TEJA Age: 18 From: Bristol Occupation: Cleaner Teja runs a cleaning company with her mum and said she wouldn't be shy about holding back when it came to messy housemates. Asked what would cause her to receive nominations she said: 'Probably being loud. I think Im alright to live with, but I can be a bit loud. I do also say whats on my mind. If I have a problem I will say.' She admitted that she had signed up for Big Brother purely for the cash after saving for a home since the age of just 11. Emily is a member of the Conservative Party and after saying that she'd attended a Christmas bash alongside 'teddy bear' Boris Johnson in her VT, was greeted with boos from the crowd She was wrongly accused of throwing a Milkshake at Reform Leader Nigel Farage in 2024, before the culprit was confirmed to be Victoria Thomas Brown Emily admitted she was gagging for a husband and hoped to find her Mr Right in the iconic Big Brother house and that her political leanings would not put off a potential partner EMILY Age:25 From: Northampton Occupation: Political events manager Emily is a member of the Conservative Party and after saying that she'd attended a Christmas bash alongside 'teddy bear' Boris Johnson in her VT, was greeted with boos from the crowd. According to The Sun she was wrongly accused of throwing a Milkshake at Reform Leader Nigel Farage in 2024, before the culprit was confirmed to be Victoria Thomas Brown. Emily admitted she was gagging for a husband and hoped to find her Mr Right in the iconic Big Brother house and that her political leanings would not put off a potential partner. When it comes to strategy she admitted: 'I haven't really thought about a strategy, although I do think people look at me and think I'm very ditzy because I've got blonde hair and fake nails. So, I think that could definitely play to my advantage, because they better watch out! I'm actually a lot cleverer'. Marcus appeared to be the perfect addition after admitting he liked to 'stir the pot' which will no doubt cause drama in the house 'I'm probably most likely to be nominated for maybe being a bit too energetic, too over the top, too loud. It might become a little bit too much for some people' When it comes to what he is most looking forward too Marcus said: 'just being thrown in the mixing bowl of a group of people who I dont know and watching all their personalities unfold' MARCUS Age: 22 From: Manchester Occupation: Mechanical Engineer Marcus appeared to be the perfect addition after admitting he liked to 'stir the pot' which will no doubt cause drama in the house. 'I'm probably most likely to be nominated for maybe being a bit too energetic, too over the top, too loud. It might become a little bit too much for some people'. When it comes to what he is most looking forward too Marcus said: 'just being thrown in the mixing bowl of a group of people who I dont know and watching all their personalities unfold. Im buzzing'. Flashing his bottom as a butler in the buff Tate said people are surprised to discover he has a Masters in Mechanical Engineering However he thought his current job would help him in the house:'Being part of the buff butler stuff, you naturally fall into the role of an entertainer' Asked why he signed up for Big Brother he said: 'It was always a bucket list experience. I've always wanted to do something like this and I thought it would be a fun story to tell one day'. TATE Age: 22 From: Falkirk Occupation: Butler in the buff business owner Flashing his bottom in the VT as the owner of a butler in the buff company, Tate revealed people would be surprised to discover he had a Masters in Mechanical Engineering. However he thought his current job would help him in the house: 'Being part of the buff butler stuff, you naturally fall into the role of an entertainer, getting folks chatting and mingling and maybe playing a couple daft games.' Asked why he signed up for Big Brother he said: 'It was always a bucket list experience. I've always wanted to do something like this and I thought it would be a fun story to tell one day. Me being on the show might also potentially help with my business as well.' Elsa, who is a pal of controversial YouTuber HSTikkyTokky, introduced herself as a Christian who not only loves the colour pink but can also see dead people She said she hoped to bring 'sunshine and laughter' to the house but admitted she may rub her fellow housemates up the wrong way with her tantrums Asked what people would be surprised to learn about her, she said: 'My spiritual side. I've recently become religious' following years of controversial online antics ELSA Age: 21 From: Essex Occupation: Content Creator Elsa, who is a pal of controversial YouTuber HSTikkyTokky, introduced herself as a Christian who not only loves the colour pink but can also see dead people. She said she hoped to bring 'sunshine and laughter' to the house but admitted she may rub her fellow housemates up the wrong way with her tantrums. Asked what people would be surprised to learn about her, she said: 'My spiritual side. I've recently become religious' following years of online antics. Excitable Zumba instructor Sam, who host AJ said had an 'incredible energy', insisted he would get his fellow housemates dancing and doing yoga every morning He gushed: 'I think I'll bring a lot of fun to the house; I'll definitely bring a lot of energy' As well as a fitness instructor he is also a budding singer and has released a string of singles under his stage name Smasby SAM Age: 27 From: Bradford Occupation: Zumba Instructor Excitable Zumba instructor Sam, who host AJ said had an 'incredible energy', insisted he would get his fellow housemates dancing and doing yoga every morning. 'I think I'll bring a lot of fun to the house; I'll definitely bring a lot of energy'. As well as a fitness instructor he is also a budding singer and has released a string of singles under his stage name Smasby. Jenny said she hopes her hometown of Derry will soon be known for her as much as it is for beloved sitcom Derry Girls The party girl said she was entreating the iconic house for a good time and hoped to party with her fellow housmeates JENNY Age: 20 From: Derry Occupation: Make-up artist Jenny said she hopes her hometown of Derry will soon be known for her as much as it is for beloved sitcom Derry Girls. The party girl said she was entreating the iconic house for a good time and hoped to party with her fellow housmeates. But when it came to evictions she said: 'I think Im most likely to be nominated for being too honest. Because if you ask for my opinion, you're going to get it.' J.K. Rowling shared a parody clip poking fun at Harry Potter star Emma Watson after the actress made a surprise U-turn on her opinions of the author. The famed author, 60, previously confessed that she wouldn't 'forgive' the stars of the iconic franchise - Emma, Rupert Grint and Daniel Radcliffe - after they shared their views on transgender women. Emma, 35, recently addressed the speculated tension between the pair in a new interview on Jay Shetty's podcast, On Purpose. As she addressed Rowling, she admitted that 'the thing I'm most upset about is that a conversation was never made possible' and that she was 'always open' to one. 'I think it's my deepest wish that I hope people who don't agree with my opinion will love me and I hope I can keep loving people who I don't necessarily share the same opinion with,' she explained. But it doesn't seem that Rowling shares the same feeling as she shared a spoof clip of Emma during the podcast to X. J.K. Rowling shared a parody clip poking fun at Harry Potter star Emma Watson after the actress made a surprise U-turn on her opinions of the author Emma, 35, recently addressed the speculated tension between the pair in a new interview on Jay Shetty's podcast, On Purpose (pictured in 2011) Emma Watson finally breaks her silence and shares her truth about the rift with JK Rowling. Spoiler alert- You may need some vinaigrette to consume this. pic.twitter.com/TlB2hXmoXa Intel Lady (@intel_lady) September 25, 2025 X user intel_lady shared the clip and was seen wearing a wig to mimic the actor's appearance as she shares a satirical take on her words towards Rowling. In the clip, the parody Watson said: 'I will always hold space for her and so much love in my heart for her, and I would hope that she felt the same way about me. 'But also I stand shoulder to shoulder with those who would wish harm on her, hate her and would wish the absolute worst for her in her life. 'But those seemingly incompatible, those two things can exist at the same time, which is why I love this incredibly diverse world that we live in' Alongside the clip, the user penned: 'Emma watcson finally breaks her silence and shares her truth about the rift with JK Rowling. Spoiler alert- You may need some vinaigrette to consume this' Rowling reshared the clip and wrote: 'I'm already missing @intel_lady's Angela Rayner, but I'm here for ALL the spoofs'. The clip comes after Emma insisted she still 'treasures' Rowling despite their different views on trans rights as she seemingly made a screeching U-turn on her opinion on the Harry Potter author. The Hermione Granger star has previously hit out at Rowling and relations between the creator of multi-billion-pound movie franchise and its actors have been notably frosty for years. While Emma said she 'still treasures' Rowling, it doesn't seem that the author shares the same feeling as she shared a spoof clip of Emma in the interview to X Last year Rowling publicly stated that she could not 'forgive' Emma and Daniel Radcliffe or other celebrities who 'cosied up to a movement intent on eroding women's hard-won rights'. During an appearance on the On Purpose with Jay Shetty podcast, Emma admitted that while she strongly supports trans rights, she still holds space for the woman who played such an important role in her life. Emma said: 'I really don't believe that by having had that experience and holding the love and support and views that I have, mean that I can't and don't treasure Jo and the person that I, that I had personal experiences with. 'I will never believe that one negates the other and that my experience of that person, I don't get to keep and cherish to come back to our earlier thing. Like I just don't think these things are either or. 'I think it's my deepest wish that I, I hope people who don't agree with my opinion will love me and I hope I can keep loving people who I don't necessarily share the same opinion with.' J.K. Rowling comments were made following the publication of the long-awaited Cass report into gender treatment in the UK, which recommended that changes should be made to the way young people are advised and puberty blockers should no longer be prescribed. Rowling hit out at stars who use their 'platforms to cheer on the transitioning of minors' and said people who supported gender transitioning in children should apologise to 'traumatised detransitioners and vulnerable women reliant on single sex spaces'. The writer has been vocal in her opposition of allowing children to change their gender, while Radcliffe and Watson have been outspoken in their support of the trans community. Emma went on to discuss feeling 'broken' by Hollywood, and believed that the experience she had on the Harry Potter set she would have throughout her career. The clip comes after Emma insisted she still 'treasures' Rowling despite their different views on trans rights as she seemingly made a screeching U-turn on her opinion She said: 'I was coming to those sets with an expectation that I think I had developed on Harry Potter, which was that we were, the people I worked with were going to be my family, and that we were going to be lifelong friends. 'I came to work looking for friendship, and that was a very painful experience for me. Outside of Harry Potter and in Hollywood, like, bone breaking, really painful, um, because most people don't come to those environments looking for friendships. 'They're looking for, this is my chance, this is my role, this is what I want out of it. I'm focused, this is my job, this is my career. Like, let's go. And I was not of that mindset. And so I found the rejection really painful. 'I think it was so unusual to make a set of films for 12 years and we were a community. Like we, we really were. And so I took that as an expectation into my other workplaces. And I just got my ass kicked. I really did. It, yeah, it broke me.' Daniel Day-Lewis made a rare appearance with his son Ronan as they attended the premiere of their film Anemone during the 63rd New York Film Festival on Saturday. The The Last of the Mohicans actor, 68, and his filmmaker son, 27, beamed on the red carpet as they celebrated Ronan's directorial debut, which sees his famous father playing a lead role. Daniel looked dapper in a grey suit while painter-turned-director Ronan opted for a boho shirt and black trousers for the occasion. The father and son duo stopped for snaps with British composer and artist Bobby Krlic. The psychological drama film directed by Ronan follows the story of a former soldier reuniting with his brother after living in isolation in the woods of Northern England for 20 years. The son of the British Hollywood star is executive producer alongside Brad Pitt, while Daniel stars alongside Sean Bean, Samantha Norton and Samuel Bottomley. Daniel Day-Lewis, 68, made a rare appearance with his son Ronan, 27, as they attended the premiere of their film Anemone during the 63rd New York Film Festival on Saturday The The Last of the Mohicans actor and his filmmaker son beamed on the red carpet as they celebrated Ronan's directorial debut, which sees his famous father playing a lead role Later on at the panel discussion, Daniel looked in good spirits while discussing Ronan's hotly-anticipated feature, taking to stage with him and fellow actor Sean, 66. The Lincoln actor celebrated his latest acting venture, which marks his first film in eight years, and recently remarked that he 'never meant to retire'. In a new interview Daniel reflected on feeling 'residual sadness' as his son Ronan went on to make films while he 'walked away from it.' Daniel sent shockwaves through Hollywood when he announced he was retiring at the age of 60 back in 2017. But as he returns to screens in Anemone, he has now admitted that he was just 'intending on doing other things.' Speaking with Rolling Stone, Daniel explained: 'It just seems like such grandiose gibberish to talk about. I never intended to retire, really. 'I just stopped doing that particular type of work so I could do some other work.' The legendary actor - who starred in Gangs of New York, There Will Be Blood, The Last of the Mohicans - never gave a reason for his exit at the time, with his team insisting it was a 'private decision'. The father and son duo stopped for snaps with British composer and artist Bobby Krlic Later on at the panel discussion, Daniel looked in good spirits while discussing Ronan's hotly-anticipated feature, taking to stage with him and fellow actor Sean Bean, 66 (middle) In a new interview, Daniel reflected on feeling 'residual sadness' as his son, Ronan went on to make films while he 'walked away from it' (pictured in Anemone) A statement from his representative said: 'Daniel Day-Lewis will no longer be working as an actor This is a private decision and neither he nor his representatives will make any further comment on this subject.' Adding of their project, Daniel explained how he thought it would be 'lovely' to get the chance to work with his son. He continued: 'I had some residual sadness because I knew Ronan was going to go on to make films, and I was walking away from that.' The father and son duo wrote the screenplay, which is described as an exploration of the relationships between fathers, sons and brothers. Filming began last October in Manchester and although details of Daniel's character, Ray Stoker, have not been confirmed he is rumoured to be an ex soldier. In 2017, Daniel famously delivered an Oscar-nominated performance in Paul Thomas Anderson's 2017 film Phantom Thread and then withdrew from acting completely. Starbucks is closing its flagship roastery and making other drastic changes that may affect your morning coffee run. The coffee chain announced this week that it is closing hundreds of locations, including the iconic Seattle Reserve Roastery. Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Brian Niccol said on Thursday it would close one percent of its corporate-owned stores across North America. The Daily Mail reached out to Starbucks for the exact number of store closures, but they did not immediately respond. Most of the store closures appear to be in the U.S. and Canada, according to the Associated Press. Starbucks plans to end the fiscal year with nearly 18,300 stores total in the U.S. As of June 29, there were 18,734 stores. The coffee giant nixed locations they believed were 'unable to create the physical environment our customers and partners expect'. The firm also closed coffeehouses where they 'dont see a path to financial performance'. Boards cover windows at the shuttered Starbucks flagship roastery in Seattle, Washington, U.S., September 25, 2025 Starbucks is closing hundreds of locations, including the iconic Seattle Reserve Roastery, along with eliminating 900 non-retail positions The Seattle Reserve Roastery announced the news with a closure letter posted on their door. The Roastery, located in Capitol Hill by Starbucks' headquarters, was quickly boarded up following the heavy-hearted announcement. The Seattle Reserve Roastery was the first of it's kind when it opened in December 2014 with a tasting room and a luxurious menu, including alcoholic beverages. It was one of the first unionized Starbucks stores after workers voted in April 2022. Starbucks confirmed to Business Insider 'union-represented status was not a factor in the decision to close the store'. The coffee giant is also eliminating 900 current non-retail partner roles and positions in what appears to be a 'turnaround'. In a press release, Starbucks said they are 'investing in green apron partner hours, more partners in stores, exceptional customer service, elevated coffeehouse designs, and innovation to create the future'. They added they are trying to manage their costs and focus on areas that 'drive long-term growth'. A letter posted outside the shuttered Starbucks flagship roastery in Seattle, Washington, on September 25 The bustling Starbucks Reserve Roastery in Seattle shows customers lined up beneath wooden ceiling beams in this May 2024 photo A Starbucks worker is seen above in this file photo Industrial coffee roasting equipment on display at Starbucks Reserve, featuring hoppers, tubes, and copper machinery They included 'generous' severance and support packages for the employees who were laid off. A spokesperson for Starbucks Workers United, which represents about 12,000 baristas, told Business Insider the union is trying to ensure any cut baristas are relocated to new stores. Chairman Niccol emphasized these decisions were not made lightly and believes 'these steps are necessary to build a better, stronger, and more resilient Starbucks'. The Danish defence ministry said Saturday that drones have been observed at several of Danish defence facilities overnight Friday into Saturday. The renewed drone sightings come after there were several drone sightings in the Nordic country earlier this week, with some of them temporarily shutting down Danish airports. The Danish defence ministry did not say where exactly the drones were seen, but several local media reported that one or more were seen near or above the military Karup Air Base. Danish public broadcaster DR reported that there were drones in the air both inside and outside the fence of the air base at around 8 pm, quoting Simon Skelkjr, the duty manager at the Central and West Jutland Police. DR said that for a period of time, the airspace was closed to civil air traffic, but that did not have much practical significance, as there is currently no civil aviation in Karup. The repeated unexplained drone activity, including over four Danish airports overnight Wednesday into Thursday and a similar incident at Copenhagen Airport, has raised concerns about security in northern Europe amid suspected growing Russian aggression. The Copenhagen drones grounded flights in the Danish capital for hours on Monday night. The goal of the flyovers is to sow fear and division, Danish Minister of Justice Peter Hummelgaard said Thursday, adding that the country will seek additional ways to neutralise drones, including proposing legislation to allow infrastructure owners to shoot them down. For the upcoming European Union summit next week, the Danish defence ministry confirmed on X that the countrys government had accepted an offer from Sweden to lend Denmark a military anti-drone capability, without giving further details. In neighbouring Germany, several drones were reported in the northern German state of Schleswig-Holstein, which borders Denmark, from Thursday into Friday night. The states interior minister, Sabine Sutterlin-Waack, said that the state police are currently significantly stepping up their drone defence measures, also in coordination with other northern German states, German news agency dpa reported. She did not provide any further details, citing the ongoing investigations. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said that in regard to frequent attacks on infrastructure and data networks, we are not at war, but we are no longer living in peace either. He did not allude to a certain country as the actor behind those attacks. Drone flights, espionage, the Tiergarten murder, massive threats to individual public figures, not only in Germany but also in many other European countries. Acts of sabotage on a daily basis. Attempts to paralyse data centres. Cyberattacks, he added during a speech at the Schwarz Ecosystem Summit in Berlin on Friday, dpa reported. What became known as the Tiergarten murder in Germany refers to the case of Vadim Krasikov, who was convicted of the August 23, 2019, killing of Zelimkhan Tornike Khangoshvili, a 40-year-old Georgian citizen who had fought Russian troops in Chechnya and later claimed asylum in Germany. Krasikov was returned to Russia as part of a massive prisoner swap between the US and Russia in 2024. Nepals deposed prime minister K P Sharma Oli on Saturday denied giving shooting orders during the Gen Z protests, as he spoke publicly for the first time since his ouster earlier this month. Oli was ousted on September 9 after the Gen Z group hit the streets across Nepal against his government over corruption and a ban on social media. I have not given orders to shoot at the Gen Z protesters during the agitation, said the Communist Party of Nepal (Unified Marxist-Leninist) chairman, addressing some leaders and cadres of his party at his private residence in the Gundu area of Bhaktapur district. Last week, in his first statement since his ouster, Oli said bullets were fired at protesters from automatic guns that the police did not possess and called for a probe into the matter. A large number of people died during the arson and vandalism that were carried out in the name of Gen Z protesters, following his resignation on September 9, Oli said, adding that he was saddened after hearing the news about the deaths of the protesters. At least 19 protesters were shot dead during the police firing on the first day of the agitation on September 8. The total number of deaths during the two-day violent protests has reached 75. Oli criticised the newly-formed caretaker government led by Sushila Karki, saying it was not formed through constitutional procedure but through arson and vandalism. The Karki-led interim government was formed on September 12, ending days of political uncertainty following Olis ouster. Oli claimed that there was an infiltration in the movement launched by the Gen Z group, sidelining them. The new generation people certainly did not set fire to Singha Durbar, the main government secretariat complex, he said. During the agitation led by the Gen Z group, houses of political leaders, important government buildings, including the Parliament, business establishments and shopping complexes, were set on fire. News / Religion by Gideon Madzikatidze CHIPINGE- Mutema-Musikavanhu Constituency legislator and Deputy Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, Honourable Angeline Gata, together with St Luke's Apostolic Ejiwel Jekenishen Church leader, Archbishop Phillip Pferedzai, have commended the media and Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) for their efforts in promoting peace, gender equality, and equity across Zimbabwe.In a speech delivered on her behalf by constituency representative Mr Conrad Manyange during the church's annual women's fellowship conference and 30th anniversary, held at its headquarters in Maunganidze, Gata emphasized the vital role these institutions play in fostering a more inclusive and harmonious society."The media and police have been instrumental in disseminating information that encourages peaceful coexistence among communities. We commend their service in complementing sustainable peace and development policies across the country," Gata said.She further noted that both institutions contribute to conflict resolution and public education on gender equality, inclusivity, and law and order."Your efforts are commendable in both escalating and de-escalating community conflicts. By amplifying and advocating for government policies, you help communities understand the essence of gender equality and warn against violations," she added.Archbishop Phillip Pferedzai echoed these sentiments, urging communities to remain vigilant in combating gender-based violence."We appreciate the media and police for helping bridge gender gaps and promote fairness. Communities have become more active in fighting inequality, which fosters unity and peace," Pferedzai said.He also praised the women of St Luke's Church for their involvement in peer-to-peer engagement, counseling, conflict resolution, and project management - skills that have strengthened community resilience.Ward Councillor Lazarus Machuwaire of Mutema-Musikavanhu Constituency highlighted the importance of media and police engagement with local communities."By engaging with citizens, these institutions raise awareness on critical issues and empower people to take action," Machuwaire said.As Deputy Minister, Gata continues to address challenges in Zimbabwe's education sector, including high dropout rates and inadequate infrastructure. Her recognition of the media and ZRP's contributions underscores the importance of cross-sector collaboration in achieving national development goals. Opinion / Columnist Does Ambassador Mutsvangwa know that General Chiwenga holds a doctorate degree? His social media interviews troll Chiwenga as uneducated. But Chris missed the memo: Chiwenga graduated from the University of KwaZulu-Natal. He holds the academic title Dr. Constantine Ghuveya Chiwenga - contrary to the claim that he's illiterate.In contrast, Ambassador Mutsvangwa, who lacks a doctorate, prides himself on his University of Rhodesia credentials. He graduated with a Master of Arts in "whatever" - and yes, he speaks flawless English. But in today's global economy, that's not enough. A doctorate is the ultimate badge of recognition. To be addressed as "Dr." carries more weight than "Ambassador," which is a title granted by political appointment, not academic achievement.To troll so relentlessly, Chris resorts to linguistic jabs: "If you want to know if a Shona is literate, listen to how he pronounces l' and r'." He claims the letter R comes from the mother, and L from the teacher - concluding that Chiwenga is illiterate. This is trolling at its most petty.Dr. Chiwenga, in his wisdom, sees this as a sign of inadequate education. Chris lacks doctoral qualifications and is academically junior to him. Secondary education - O-Levels and A-Levels - don't mean much if you can leapfrog to a doctorate. Gifted and talented people do it.Zimbabwe boasts many doctorate holders from global universities: Dr. Walter Mzembi, Dr. Thokozani Khupe, Dr. Joyce Mujuru, Dr. Obert Mpofu, Dr. Grace Mugabe, Dr. Auxillia Mnangagwa. Dr. Walter Magaya was expected to graduate recently, but for some reason, his doctorate was declined.There are dozens more who could dwarf the "Ambassador" title Mutsvangwa holds - a title earned through government benevolence. He was sent to China to serve as ambassador, a role granted by political duty, not academic merit.The succession fight has reached its peak. Who will succeed President Mnangagwa in 2028 is the million-dollar question. If, for argument's sake, Dr. Chiwenga is disqualified from the race, he could easily take up a lectureship at the University of Zimbabwe.For Mutsvangwa, it's different. That's why many pursue further education - a bankable qualification for when politics fails.Demarcation lines must be drawn. Some citizens earn honorary doctorates, like Dr. Tsitsi Dangarembga, awarded by Rhodes University for her globally recognized literary work. Others burn candles for genuine doctorates. Some use their bank accounts to acquire them.I remember Advocate Tendai Biti once said he'd never pursue a doctorate because the title has been abused and lost its meaning. Still, "success has many fathers; defeat is an orphan."To ridicule Chiwenga as illiterate is kutaura kwausina kuswera. That said, Mutsvangwa is eloquent, articulate, highly intelligent, and ambitious. His trolling stems from deep political frustration - decades of vicissitudes. ZANU PF has never allowed him to rise to his full potential. In the power matrix, it's clear he wants to succeed Mnangagwa. But how?The current power struggle exposes tribal divisions within ZANU - not the old Ndebele-Shona animosities, but fractures among Shona subgroups. When Mnangagwa took power in 2017, voices whispered, "Mukaranga panyanga!" That was telling.These tribal power struggles aren't new. They date back to the liberation days in Zambia and Tanzania, resulting in the deaths of many - including Advocate Herbert Chitepo and Dr. Edgar Madekurozva.The message I take home is one of self-deceit. How do we wear masks to become what we are not? What are we teaching our children and grandchildren? To deceive oneself and the nation is a form of mental corruption.In Zimbabwe, external recognition is everything. You're either a pastor, prophet, doctor, or sangoma - the list is long. These social titles invite deception. Without them, feelings of inadequacy overwhelm. / by Source - All articles and letters published on Bulawayo24 have been independently written by members of Bulawayo24's community. The views of users published on Bulawayo24 are therefore their own and do not necessarily represent the views of Bulawayo24. Bulawayo24 editors also reserve the right to edit or delete any and all comments received. Opinion / Columnist Well, like I indicated last week, the pilferage of the uumph of civil servants demonstrations by some externally glamorised fringe political upstarts last week was bound be exposed in the failed lockdown call this week. Simply, these upstarts overreached, mistaking civil servants action and WhatsApp-induced fear for a measure of their influence. Of course the gullible will say, ah but Manheru, did you not see the crowds that thronged the Magistrates Court this week. I did, and what a variegated crowd it was! The issue is not to have seen the crowd. Rather, the issue is to correctly read the message from it.Who was who in the throngThe crowd comprised a dominant youthful age group - yuppies and lumpens - something sure to explain the extensive use of social media in these overrated fringe WhatsApp politics. It comprised a significant handful of whites, among them Ben Freeth, the renowned "white African" who is the face of dislodged white settler farmers in desperate valedictory agitation and vexatious legalism. It comprised one or two ambassadors and scores of western diplomats a largely intelligence officers a out to gauge and garner on the impact of what they had sponsored and fomented. It comprised opposition supporters aall of them wistful a gauging this new, emerging political force that is a ringing indictment on their own failures as a viable alternative to Zanu-PF. And it is not fortuitous that even the ailing Tsvangirai had to be dragged from his bed of recuperation to save the situation which this unstructured runaway force is threatening to dominate. It comprised pseudo-Pentecostals hoping to catch the attention of the broad church in the hope of getting a patina of moral high ground in what has turned out to be a campaign of violence and naked, WhatsApped lies and impersonations. It comprised vendors who hoped to clinch a few dollars from the sale of national flags which this unstructured movement may not be allowed to abuse for long. That was the throng, quite a mosaic in motives as in dress.Photogenic techniquesOf course to all that add nocturnal theatricals, including the blinking politics-by-candlelight, and you have an idea of new photogenic techniques belying this abortive, storm-in-teacup politics with the lifespan of froth in the dry Harmattan. I was about to forget a handful of over-counted "human rights" lawyers meant to suggest formidableness. Except we have met these before, from the early days of land reforms when their cause enjoyed generous support from white farmers and western governments. Nothing new, plainly. Nothing to fear at all. An ensemble of same old forces only rearranged and rejuvenated by a new catchment of impressionable followers.Juvenalian politicsIt was a seemingly spectacular show. Until of course you remember that the real agenda of the day and the day to follow was a lockdown of the country meant to eventuate in an ouster of an elected, constitutional government. Not my agenda by any count. Theirs by a well reared WhatsApp declarative! The court action was thus a sideshow meant to hide a monumental flop that the lockdown call was, full stop. As also were sporadic demonstrations in South Africa and UK which no one cared about. Or a song on YouTube. Today no one is under any illusion as to the length and breadth of this twitter-movement. It cannot blame police high-handedness. All the authorities did was to assure safety and security to law-abiding citizens: business operators, informal traders, commuter omnibus operators, educators, students, civil servants and others chasing different odds and ends. That action removed the fear factor, itself the only mobilising ingredient of this movement, second only to socially networked lies. All this brings out the Juvenalian outlook of these impressionable youths in elementary politics. Surely it was not difficult to know that the business sector actually sponsored SI 64 of 2016? Surely it is not difficult to recall that previous stayaways called by the MDC-T a few years back at the height of the land reforms collapsed simply because businesses are not in the habit of underwriting spurious change. Or any change for that matter. They are for stability, for the status quo. Except failing ones hoping for bailouts from the aftermath of chaotic change. By asking businesses to lock down, even then for two consecutive days, you are essentially asking them to fund a larger national political question which they are not wont to doing. Or are these youths too young to have read from the forerunning stayaways? Of course you have strange business propositions like Food Lovers directly linked to gratuitous imports from South Africa a agricultural by the way a who feel hurt by the SI. You don't need extra wisdom to know that Food Lovers is the latest initiative by embittered white farmers meant to depress agricultural activity in the country through needless imports in order to encourage a perception of futility of land reforms. Well, the authorities have noticed. As indeed they have also the connection between white-run schools and such politics.Endless hashtag chainGentle reader, in my description of various elements that made up the throng at the court, I am sure you have already sensed the deadly fault lines in this much vaunted hashtag movement. It will not be long. No politician worth an election will be fooled by Mawarire's claims that he is simply putting pressure on Government to be heard, that he has no political ambition. His vaulting ambition this already excited, his imagined grandiosity this already stoked, it is only a matter of days before he launches himself as a political party. Check this column. Unless he is an out and out fool who does not know that sustainable politics require an organisational framework provided by a party, an ideology, a manifesto, a leadership structure, etc, etc. And in not being a fool by providing all these things itemised above, he in fact becomes one. A big one too. That is the bind associated with all so-called civil movements. For now here is the sheer absurdity of it all: Name: #This Flag; Cause: #This Flag; Ideology: #This Flag; Manifesto: #This Flag; Membership: #This Flag; Leader: #This Flag; Sponsor: #Outgoing Laurent Delahousse; Sympathisers: #SkyTv , BBC, IFP, Freeth; Reach: #Avondale ; Voters: #Diaspora ; Opponents: #Anxious Opposition; Tolerated by: # Government; Still to be responded to by: #Zanu-PF One Laurent DelahousseA good friend e-mailed me from UK to say his sumptuous breakfast had been interrupted by images of alleged Zimbabwe police beatings showing on ITV. He added, "Zimbabwe back on British radar all for wrong reasons." I did not hesitate. "Beatings you said? Elsewhere they shoot." Of course I added an exclamation mark to good measure. "I know", he answered resignedly, adding: "The British have a special standard for us". Really, I quipped. "Do you remember Ayi Kwei Armah's "Why are we so blest"? A good point to introduce Laurent Delahousse and his French masters. He is the outgoing French Ambassador who appears to have chosen drama for a parting shot to this society. A while ago, he visited maverick hashtag demonstrators who had decamped at Africa Unity Square. At night, too! Of course the broad light of national publicity caught up with him and he was left gasping for lame defences. This time around he has dispensed with nightfall, choosing to associate with fringe oppositional politics in broad daylight. It is not a mark of ambassadorial courage; just the recklessness of a lacklustre ambassador whose tour time is up. Much like an estranged wife who knows she can no longer salvage anything from a collapsing marriage, he is now going for broke. But there is more to the behaviours of this French envoy than has been covered by the local press. Let me help out.See what their govt has wroughtTwo days ago, the French were celebrating the storming of the Bastille, which is how they recognise their national day. The Bastille was the castle that housed the French monarch before the 1789 bourgeois revolution that guillotined and swept away monarchical rule in France and the greater part of Europe, heralding the ascendency of bourgeois rule. As the Ambassador was dishing out wine in honour of the day, France itself was under attack, leaving scores of Frenchmen and women dead. "The protection of the people by the State without unnecessary use of force, even the right to stay home without having to face the full wrath of the law . . . Those are some of the rights deriving from liberation struggle of your elders. I want to remain hopeful that Zimbabwe will not deviate from the progress accomplished in recent years". Such were the words of Ambassador Dalahousse to us, words ironically virtually contemporaneous with the attack on his country by what we can only assume to be terrorists. This is not the first such attack which France has suffered this year and in the last two years. One can only condole with the French families which have lost their loved ones, while noticing repeated failure by their Government to protect them. And in doing so, one is not blind to the sheer culpability of the French Government whose policies on the African continent and elsewhere in the Middle East causally link with the raging insecurity which has now visited its citizens.A dose of French piffleAnd the Ambassador should be the first one to know that rearing and pepping up violence in any society, including celebrating the actions of forces of violence as "light that shone . . . on the other side of this (Harare) beautiful city" and heralding, to use his own words "a new, united peaceful Zimbabwe", creates not just instability but a spiral of violence which ends up engulfing an otherwise peaceful society. The French led operations in Mali. We have seen the blowback from that precipitous action that never settled matters in the Maghreb. Today their man here thinks he is being helpful by romancing a burgeoning movement that introduces "ghosts" clad in balaclavas on YouTube, a movement that encourages attack on the police, while he takes advantage of the parapet of diplomatic immunity. And as he goads and pampers these still amateurish but potentially potent dark forces incubating in our society, he injects a dose of piffle: "France supports the Government of Zimbabwe's policy to re-engage with the international community and its strategy of arrears clearance more commonly known as the Lima Process". How are we supposed to take such words?Voting for lawlessness and violenceAt one level he is hunting with the hounds while at another level he is running with the hares, even romancing the "liberation struggle of (our) elders", while castigating the very ideas which moved that liberation as "outdated ideology that is not helping your country to (adjust) to the reality of the world today". What is the reality of the world today, Mr Ambassador? That you can brazenly tell us that "I make no excuse for backing (anti-government) protests" in Zimbabwe as if you are a citizen and stakeholder? Would France countenance such gross interference in its own affairs by an African diplomat accredited to it? Or is it because we are a small nation comprising people of colour, comprising a race your country once colonised in the past? And you dare assert the right of Zimbabweans to demonstrate "within the framework of the law" and to use the social media "in a peaceful manner" as if you did not follow what happened when those actions unfolded here. Did you castigate departures from framework of the law, ominous forays beyond peace? How would your government have reacted to a figure in balaclava calling for an uprising?How dare you venture into the backyard?Like I said, there is a method to the man's rank madness. France has been upset by the way President Mugabe brokered peace in Mali during his time as Chairman of the AU. To France, this was an affront. Mugabe should not have set foot in France's backyard. Or inviting the Malian President for a return visit. We are paying dearly for it. To aggravate matters, Zimbabwe invited the Togolese President to open the ZIFT. This was sacrilegious. The French do not want Mugabe politics in their erstwhile colonies, politics sure to upset the neo-colonial applecart. It was not also lost to them that after the inauguration of President Buhari, the President was due to fly to Ivory Coast at the invitation of a continental bank. They stepped in to stop that. This is the tiff between us and France, which the Ambassador has been asked to fight out here. He has lost the fight, and is set to go back limping.Hoping for EU leadership in AfricaThere is also a new angle to it. With the anticipated departure of the United Kingdom from the European Union, France hopes to lead in reshaping the bloc's policy towards Africa, but in a way that recognizes French interests and its neo-colonial tradition. France thinks its entry point is appearing to be on the side of democracy it does not support in its so-called African backyard, so it has a transcendental ticket for encroachment into former British colonies, and also for out-shining a reticent Germany, the real powerhouse of the EU. Tackling Zimbabwe, currently seen as the hardest nut to crack on the continent, would assure it of that leadership in the bloc. And sponsoring new political forces in the country in the hope of their take-over will also guarantee it of a client government more beholden to it than to the exiting British. It is a very facile policy the French are launching, one sure to fail. In the meantime, till we never meet again, it's a goodbye Mister Ambassador.Icho!nathaniel.manheru@zimpapers.co.zw NEED TO KNOW A 61-year-old woman has died and two other people were injured after a dog attack in Alabama on Sept. 23 The dog suddenly went crazy and bit the hands of his caretaker, before attacking the woman and her husband as they attempted to intervene The animal was shot dead by a fourth person on the scene A woman has died and two others were injured after a dog attack in Alabama. Deputies responded to a report of a dog bite on Macks Way in Oneonta at around 3 a.m. local time on Tuesday, Sept. 23, according to the Blount County Sheriff's Office, per AL.com, WBRC and WVTM 13. Upon arrival, they found a 61-year-old woman, Sandra Wolfe Schaefer, and two others injured. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Officials said a man was looking after the dog for a friend who is currently in the Jefferson County Jail, per WVTM 13. The man had taken a break from working in his shop to walk the dog when the animal suddenly "went crazy" and bit his hands, nearly ripping off his fingers, according to the Sheriff's Office, per AL.com. Schaefer and her husband, who were visiting the man, were attacked by the dog as they attempted to pull the animal off his caretaker. A fourth person then shot and killed the dog, police told PEOPLE. A neighbor/family member of the sitter ran over and attempted to shoot the dog to stop the attack but the gun malfunctioned. When the dog disengaged, he was able to shoot the dog which didnt survive, Jason Paul, sergeant of public information at Blount County Sheriffs Office, said in a statement to PEOPLE. Never miss a story sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. All three victims were hospitalized with severe injuries. Schaefer later died from her injuries on Friday, Sept. 26, the sheriff's office added. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement Paul noted that the dog had no history of violence before or during its time with the caretaker, the dog tested negative for rabies, and no criminal charges are expected. There have been at least four other deadly dog attacks in Alabama this year, according to AL.com. On July 22, a 7-year-old boy was killed in an attack on the property where he lived in Chilton County, and two days later, on July 24, a 50-year-old woman, identified as Delores M. Musgrove, was found dead in Bessemer following a dog attack. In March, a 6-month-old girl was killed by her family's pit bull in her Alabaster home. In February, a 46-year-old woman was killed when she was attacked by a pack of dogs at a neighbor's home in Tuscaloosa County, per WVTM 13. Read the original article on People Ten entrepreneurs from across the Derry City and Strabane district have made the local shortlist and will battle it out to make The Ultimate Pitch in a bid to win investment for their business idea. The winner of the local heat, taking place on October 27 at the Playhouse will secure 1,000 and progress to the regional final in November where theyll be in with the chance to capture another 5,000 for the overall winner. The competition is organised by the government-backed enterprise support service Go Succeed. Finalists in the Derry City and Strabane district include Chea O'Neill of Digi Barn, an automation company focused on agriculture; Grainne McLaughlin from Turas Crafts; Nomathamsanqa Tholo of Cultural Staffing Solutions; and Conor Strawbridge from Eco Bug Farm which turns food waste into insect protein and oil for animal feed. Others include Jack Sayers who has developed health and safety wearable Vibrotect; Jordan Armstrong of OG Hill Farm Woodwork; and Dana Ann Doherty who runs a yoga and movement space. They are joined by Mary Blake who has developed a personal archive platform SeeMe; Jennifer Smyth of Jenns Gym, and Jill Hyndman from sustainable streetwear brand Factory Ireland. Councillor Ruairi McHugh, Mayor, Derry City and Strabane District Council, said: Many congratulations to all those that have made the local heat of Go Succeed: The Ultimate Pitch. The incredible number of entries from across the Derry City and Strabane district illustrates the depth of entrepreneurial talent locally and shows just what an achievement it is to have been shortlisted. We wish the very best of luck to all finalists, and to all those entrepreneurs that took the time to enter. The future of our local economy is obviously in very safe hands. Heat winners from each of Northern Irelands 11 councils will progress to The Ultimate Pitch regional final in Seamus Heaney HomePlace in Bellaghy, Co. Derry on November 19. The overall winner at the regional final will receive the Go Succeed Ultimate Pitch Award, 5,000 investment, and a prize package including a photography session supplied by Brian Thompson Photography, podcast recording session supplied by Attention X Studio NI, membership of Toastmasters, and a media training session supplied by LK Communications. Winners of sub-categories at the regional final, which include the Go Succeed Impact Award for the best social enterprise, the Go Succeed Inclusive Entrepreneurship Award, and the Go Succeed Rising Star Award for the most inspiring 16-25 year old entrepreneur, will also receive 1,500 towards their business idea. READ NEXT: Derry businesses join Tourism NI sustainability learning journey Meanwhile, members of the public will have the opportunity to vote for their favourite regional finalist to win the Peoples Choice Award, sponsored by Ardmore Group, with the winner also receiving a 1,500 cash prize. Go Succeed (www.go-succeed.com) is funded by the UK Government and delivered by Northern Irelands 11 councils. The service supports entrepreneurs, new starts and existing businesses with easy-to-access advice and support including mentoring, masterclasses, peer networks, access to grant funding and business planning at every stage of their growth journey. Derry City and Strabane District Council has announced the launch of the third round of its successful HeART of the Sperrins programme, a creative arts initiative aimed at supporting older people living in rural communities across the district. The programme, which began in August 2025, builds on two previous rounds of activity and continues to respond to findings from the 2021 North West Audience Research. That research highlighted that individuals over 60 remain significantly underrepresented in arts and cultural engagement. HeART of the Sperrins is part of the Arts & Older People Programme, jointly funded by the National Lottery through the Arts Council of Northern Ireland, the Public Health Agency, and Derry City and Strabane District Council. The initiative seeks to promote positive mental health and emotional wellbeing in older people, while ensuring their voices and experiences are represented through the arts. This latest round will deliver high-quality creative workshops in rural settingsincluding day care centres and older peoples groupswith a particular focus on those who are isolated, living with disabilities, or otherwise underserved by mainstream arts provision. Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Cllr Ruairi McHugh, welcomed the return of the programme:HeART of the Sperrins is a fantastic example of how arts and culture can be used to build stronger, more inclusive communities. This programme brings creativity and connection directly into the heart of our rural areas, where access to such opportunities can often be limited. Its about improving wellbeing, reducing isolation, and giving our older citizens a chance to be seen, heard, and valued. Im proud that our Council continues to support this meaningful work, and I look forward to seeing the incredible results once again. Lorraine Calderwood, Arts Development Officer, Arts Council of Northern Ireland, said, Thanks to funding from the National Lottery and the Public Health Agency, were delighted to support Derry City and Strabane District Council in this third round of the HeART of the Sperrins project. Research has proven that taking part in arts activities can raise self-esteem, confidence and motivation, as well helping to relieve stress. The arts have a vital role to play in helping our older people find their voice, bring people together and promote positive physical and mental health. The programme was shaped by feedback from local community networks, care homes, and service providers, who saw first-hand the impact of previous sessions. The challenges faced by older residentsincluding loneliness, declining health, and limited access to serviceswere further exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Arts-based engagement has since proven to be a powerful tool in addressing these issues. Mayor of Derry City & Strabane District Council, Ruairi McHugh, is pictured at the launch of the HeART of the Sperrins Arts & Older People Programme at The Plum Club, alongside Arts Development Officers Sharon Meenan and Andrea Campbell, and Arts & Culture Manager John Kerr. Artist Jenny Johnston is facilitating the project, which is funded by the Arts Council of Northern Ireland, the Public Health Agency, and Derry City & Strabane District Council. Working in partnership with Councils Museum Services and the Local Community Growth Partnership areas, the initiative will also help build lasting connections and provide training opportunities to sustain engagement beyond the funded sessions. A diverse range of creative activities will be offered over six participatory sessions in each setting, including: Music Therapy, Willow Sculpture, Visual Arts and Crafts, Felting & Quilting, Wood Carving, Glass Lantern Painting, Reminiscence and Storytelling and Historical Artefacts and Museum Tours. IN PICTURES: The 'HeART of Gaza' Children's Art Exhibition in Derry These activities have been selected in consultation with healthcare providers to ensure they are age-appropriate, inclusive, and engaging. For further information about HeART of the Sperrins or to find out how to get involved, please contact artsandculture@derrystrabane.com A series of projects which aim to give people living with mental health conditions access to arts activities are to receive funding of 400,115. Grants of up to 20,000 for 23 projects have been announced by the Arts Council Northern Ireland (ACNI) and the Baring Foundation with funding from the National Lottery. The Arts and Mental Health Partnership Programme will see arts organisations linking up with specialist mental health service providers to deliver projects that will target people experiencing higher levels of disadvantage or exclusion, including those living with mental health issues, such as addictions and eating disorders. It provides training and specialist mental health support for participating artists as well as supporting the community projects. The Seacourt Print Workshop in Bangor, Co Down, has been awarded 15,140 to work with Action Mental Health/New Horizons Create Connect to provide a safe space for vulnerable people to engage in creativity through printmaking. The Millenium Forum in Londonderry has been awarded 17,954 to partner with Arc Fitness on a youth-led drama and health project. The project is aimed at young people aged 1118 who will engage in weekly workshops in drama, singing and dance. The Armagh Tyrone Wellbeing Collective has been awarded 13,600 to deliver holistic health and wellbeing programmes including group initiatives, retreats and one-to-one support initiatives. The Ulster Orchestra Society has been awarded 18,048 to partner with Steps and Glasgowbury to deliver workshops to engage adults living with mental health needs in Draperstown and surrounding rurally isolated communities in Mid Ulster. Youth Action has been awarded 15,982 to partner with a range of organisations, including Belfast Met to deliver a programme engaging with young people through a series of performing arts workshops and mini festivals. It will be aimed at young people with moderate to severe disabilities, who have been identified as living with a mental health condition. Lorraine Calderwood from the Arts Council, said: At the heart of this initiative is a desire to deliver meaningful arts-based projects to some of the most vulnerable members of our society. David Cutler, director of the Baring Foundation, commented: This is part of our wider funding partnership with ACNI around arts and mental health that includes a pioneering strand of work on the mental health of artists, an occupational group at high risk of poor mental health. We hope this programme will have much to share with other parts of the UK. The full list of awards is available at artscouncil-ni.org/funding. Save my User ID and Password Some subscribers prefer to save their log-in information so they do not have to enter their User ID and Password each time they visit the site. To activate this function, check the 'Save my User ID and Password' box in the log-in section. This will save the password on the computer you're using to access the site. Note: If you choose to use the log-out feature, you will lose your saved information. This means you will be required to log-in the next time you visit our site. Tributes have been paid to a respected and experienced fisherman whose body was found following a three-day search off the coast of Co Sligo. A member of the public alerted search teams after the missing man, identified by industry figures as Kevin McCloskey from Killybegs, fell overboard from a vessel on Thursday evening. Malin Head Coast Guard co-ordinated the search, which involved the Sligo-based Coast Guard helicopter R118, Killybegs Coast Guard Unit, and RNLI lifeboats from Bundoran, Aranmore, Ballyglass and Sligo, as well as a number of local fishing vessels. The Coast Guard confirmed a body had been found on Saturday evening. It said: The extensive search co-ordinated for a missing fisherman by the Coast Guard today in Donegal Bay has ended with the recovery of a body off Teelin on the Donegal Coast. A local fishing vessel involved in the search made the discovery just before 6pm. The search concluded after three days of intensive searching co-ordinated by the Coast Guard at Malin Head Maritime Rescue Sub Centre. The Coast Guard extends their sympathy to the family at this time of sadness and would also like to thank all the search units and local fishing vessels, An Garda Siochana, along with the community for their support throughout the search. The Killybegs Fishermens Organisation, which supports the fishing community, said in a statement on Facebook: It was with deep sadness that the KFO learned of the death of Kevin McCloskey from Killybegs, owner of the FV K-Mar-K who lost his life doing what he loved, fishing. Kevin was a former board member and chairman of the KFO in 2002. He was a respected and experienced fishermen, having worked all his life in the industry, and noted for his positive outlook on life. The KFO would like to express our deepest sympathies to his family and friends. He will be sorely missed by the local fishing community, the membership of the KFO and the wider fishing industry. The KFO would also like to acknowledge the extensive efforts made by local vessels, the RNLI, Irish Coast Guard units and shore search volunteers to recover the body. Recovery at least brings some closure to what is a tragedy for the whole fishing community. Dundalk playwright Jaki McCarrick brings her internationally acclaimed drama Belfast Girls to Droichead Arts Centre this October before embarking on a nationwide tour. Set in 1850, Belfast Girls tells the story of five fierce young women who face their dark pasts on a ship bound for Australia, as they leave Belfast in search of a better life. Confined in close quarters in the belly of the ship, they embark on a tumultuous sea journey as they sail away from their homeland. Secrets are revealed, enemies made, and it becomes clear that no matter where they go, there is no escaping the past. An award-winning feminist play based on a true piece of largely untold Irish history Jaki McCarricks Belfast Girls follows the story of five fierce young Irish women aboard the Inchinnan travelling from Belfast to Australia during the Famine in the desperate hope of a new life abroad. But the further from home they voyage the more each of them comes to realise they cannot escape their pasts, nor the seemingly universal subjugation of their gender. Over the long ship journey the women form intense bonds, and life-changing secrets are revealed, personal and political. This new production, directed by Rhiann Jeffrey stars an all-star cast including Debra Hill (Hope Street), Ebby OToole-Acheampong (Into the Badlands), Fiona Keenan OBrien (Behind Locked Doors), Leah Rossiter (A Date for Mad Mary) Caitriona Williams (Bad Sisters Season 2), Belfast Girls will be open in Droichead Arts Centre before touring across the island of Ireland during October and November 2025. Read Next: Dundalk IT induction welcomes new students Written by Jaki McCarrick, an award-winning writer from Dundalk, Belfast Girls was developed at the National Theatre London and was shortlisted for the Susan Smith Blackburn Prize and the 2014 BBC Tony Doyle Award. It premiered in Chicago in May 2015 to much critical acclaim and has since been staged widely internationally, with recent premieres in Australia, Sweden and New York. Jaki has recently completed the screen adaptation of the play. Tour Details: Droichead Arts Centre (Preview) 10 Oct https://www.droichead.com/ show-detail/?id=873676856 An Grianan, Letterkenny 14-15 Oct https://angrianan.com/event/ belfast-girls/ Ramor, Virginia 17 Oct https://ramorartscentre. ticketsolve.com/ticketbooth/ shows/873673912 The Hawkswell, Sligo 21-22 Oct https://www.hawkswell.com/ whats-on/shows/belfast-girls Garage, Monaghan 24-25 Oct https://www.garagetheatre.com/ event/an-tain-arts-centre-and- quintessence-theatre-presents- belfast-girls-by-jaki- mccarrick/ Smock Alley, Dublin 28 Oct 1st Nov https://smockalley.com/ belfast-girls/ Riverbank, Newbridge 5-6 Nov https://www.riverbank.ie/ event/jaki-mccarricks-belfast- girls/2025-11-06/ Town Hall, Galway 11 Nov Watergate, Kilkenny 13-14 https://www.watergatetheatre. com/whats-on/events/belfast- girls-by-jaki-mccarrick Lyric, Belfast week of 17th Nov Schools across Louth are being asked to support children living in poverty around the world by registering Team Hope's Christmas Shoebox Appeal Team Hope, the charity that delivers gifts into the hands of children living in poverty across African and Eastern Europe, is calling on children and families in the county to get involved in this years Christmas Shoebox Appeal. As it marks its 15th year of the Christmas Shoebox Appeal, Team Hope is asking schools and employers as well as individuals and community organisations across the county to get involved by logging onto teamhope.ie. Since 2010, Team Hope has delivered over 2.8 million shoebox gifts and this year expects to surpass the three million mark. Often these gift-packed shoeboxes are the only festive presents children living in poverty in countries in Africa and Eastern Europe receive. A simple shoebox, often packed by children for children, carries not only toys and treats but also the invisible gifts of love and hope, said Team Hope CEO, Deborah Lowry. That kindness, travelling across oceans, reminds a child that they are not forgotten that someone, somewhere cares. In a world where headlines often highlight what is broken, the Christmas Shoebox Appeal stands as a powerful demonstration that the world is also filled with kindness. Ms Lowry used the example of a father of three who received the gift of a Christmas shoebox as a child and who now makes shoeboxes for other children with his own family as a great example of the gift of giving. Adas Rakauskas, 37, never forgot the present he received as an eight-year-old as his family struggled to keep their heads above water. Every year the Co Louth-based dad makes these transformative gifts for other children. Originally from Lithuania, Adas is also urging people across Louth to join Team Hopes annual Christmas Shoebox Appeal by sending life-changing gifts to children affected by poverty around the world. We didnt have much food or good food, said Adas. Medically, we were all malnourished as children. I remember sitting at the table as a child for a meal and there was just bread or some carrots. At times we relied on neighbours to drop something in, so we were struggling, and it was tough on my parents from a financial perspective. Recalling the moment he was handed the gift as a child, he said: I remember all of us gathered in the village and there was a play. At the end, the shoeboxes were given to the children. We were very excited. I think there were pens and pencils and some stationery in the box. What struck me most was that someone had put this together. Now living in Drogheda with his wife Tracey and their children Elias, nine, Izabella, eight, and six-year-old Mikayla, Adass family box up the magic of Christmas by making shoeboxes for other children living in poverty. To get involved, see www.teamhope.ie China prioritizes ecology, pursues green development in Yangtze River governance: report Xinhua) 10:58, September 28, 2025 WUHAN, Sept. 26 (Xinhua) -- China has developed a scientific strategy for Yangtze River governance over the past decade or so, with ecological protection and green development at its core, according to a think tank report released on Friday. The high-level ecological protection of the Yangtze River and the high-quality development along the Yangtze River Economic Belt have served the country's broader goal of advancing Chinese modernization, said the report released by Xinhua Institute, a think tank affiliated with Xinhua News Agency, at the ongoing 2025 Great Rivers Forum in Wuhan, central China's Hubei Province. Revered as the "mother river" of the Chinese nation, the Yangtze River is China's longest waterway, sustaining a number of the country's economic powerhouses, megacities and major rice-producing areas. In the past, the Yangtze River suffered from severe pollution and ecological damage due to a "rush to develop" approach. The situation changed when China introduced new guidelines for Yangtze River governance, emphasizing "ecological priority, green development, joint protection and no excessive development." Over the past decade, local authorities along the Yangtze River have earnestly implemented the guidelines, making the restoration of the Yangtze River's ecological environment an overriding priority. Practices that once sacrificed the environment for short-term, local economic gains have been abandoned. Obsolete capacities have been gradually phased out, while advanced and green industries have been cultivated. The Yangtze River Protection Law, the country's first basin-specific law, came into effect on March 1, 2021, providing legal support for the scientific, green and high-quality development of the Yangtze River Basin. It has become a widely accepted social consensus along the Yangtze River that "lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets," the report said, noting that a more balanced relationship between economic and social development, population, resources, and the environment has taken shape. According to the Yangtze River Economic Belt Development Report (2023-2024) by the Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences, the average per capita disposable income of urban residents across the 11 provinces and municipalities in the belt reached 53,992 yuan (about 7,588 U.S. dollars) in 2023, representing a year-on-year growth of 6.26 percent. (Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun) The John Feely Foundation has announced that applications are now being accepted for the four scholarships awarded by that body each year, and applicants from Louth are being urged to enter. A sum of 1500 each is awarded to four students in Year One of an agricultural course at one of the following agricultural colleges: Clonakilty Kildalton, Pallaskenry, Gurteen, Mountbellew, Ballyhaise or who is studying an agriculture-related course in another Third Level institution. Applications can be made by any ICMSA member who are required to give their own name, phone and membership numbers while nominating the student, as well as providing the students home address, the course the nominee is engaged upon, and the institution the nominee student is attending. Nominations must be received at ICMSA Head Office by 5pm on Friday 14 November and the draw will be made at the AGM on the 28 November with the four successful applicants contacted by Head Office. The above picture shows the four winners of the 2024 John Feely Foundation Scholarships upon being presented with their individual cheques for 1500 at a reception held in ICMSAs Limerick Head Office, John Feely House, on Feb 21. The photo shows from left, Tommy Ryan, Limerick, Lydia McGrath, Cork, Andrew Graham, Co Wexford, and Cian Common, Co Meath. At the presentation, ICMSA President, Denis Drennan, drew attention to the fact that the association is celebrating its 75th anniversary, and appealed to the young farming students to stay in contact with the organisation and to engage with their fellow farmers, through responsible groups who could analyse and help bring forward the solutions that would allow their own and future generations of Irish farmers to thrive. ICMSA and the John Feely Foundation say they are jointly committed to securing the continued engagement of young farmers with those groups who follow the guiding principle of John Feely: Keep working and bringing forward solutions to the problems of Irelands family dairy farms. Above: Dublin Belfast Economic Corridor representatives - Damien McConville, DBEC Programme Manager; Anthony Soares Director, Centre for Cross Border Cooperation; Elaine McAlinden, DBEC Partnership Officer; Thomas McEvoy, Director of Services, Louth County Council; and Cllr Robert Nash, Louth County Council The Centre for Cross Border Cooperation (CCBC) hosted its All-Island Labour Market: Challenges and Opportunities conference in Dundalk on Thursday 18 September. The event brought together employers, workers representatives, and business support organisations to examine the future of the labour market across the island. Dr Anthony Soares, Director at the Centre for Cross Border Cooperation which hosted the conference, said: Our expert speakers addressed a wide range of issues affecting labour mobility, including the cross-border recognition of skills and qualifications, tax and pension reform, workers rights, and the need for accessible information and independent support. Dr Soares highlighted how the conference showcased both the progress already being made in cross-border cooperation and the untapped potential that remains within the region. He also emphasised the Centres ongoing call for an official definition of frontier workers within the all-island context. Establishing such a definition, he argued, would enable policymakers to design targeted solutions that recognise the unique circumstances of these workers while ensuring that employers can access the skills they need to grow and compete. Speaking on behalf of the Dublin-Belfast Economic Corridor, one of the conferences co-headline sponsors, Cllr Robert Nash, Chair of Dundalk Municipal District, said: DBEC was delighted to support this conference and contribute to vital discussions on skills and labour mobility, a shared concern across the island. "The event provided an important forum to identify gaps in the skills ecosystem affecting both the Dublin-Belfast Economic Corridors growth and the wider all-island economy. Discussions also highlighted the challenges faced by people living in one jurisdiction and working across the border in the other, reinforcing the need for continued collaboration to unlock the regions full economic potential. Paul Hannigan, VP for Cross Border Engagement at Atlantic Technological University (ATU), part of the North West Tertiary Education Cluster, the conferences other co-headline sponsor, added: The North West Tertiary Education (NWTEC) partners, ATU, Ulster University, North West Regional College and Donegal Education and Training Board were delighted to support the Centre for Cross Border Cooperations Annual Conference. "We see the CCBC as a key partner in breaking down the barriers to achieving greater economic prosperity for our cross border region. NWTEC aligned with key stakeholders in the region has the potential to establish the North West City Region as a significant growth centre for Ireland and Northern Ireland on a European and global stage. The conference keynote speaker was Dr Caoimhe Archibald MLA, Minister for the Economy, who said: I was delighted to join the Centre for Cross Border Cooperation to discuss how we advance a more inclusive, skilled and connected all-island economy. "The recent All-Island Labour Market Study provides us with a fundamental base to better understand the challenges of cross-border employment, as well as the opportunities. My department continues to build on these opportunities, with programmes such as Assured Skills Academies, Skills Focus, and InnovateUs, all helping people across the North gain new skills, while our colleges and universities continue to work with partners in the South. "The conference discussions reaffirmed the critical role of collaboration in tackling our shared challenges and unlocking opportunity for workers across the island. Colin McCabrey, Director of Trade at InterTradeIreland, added: The positive cross-border economic landscape presents a strong foundation for future growth. Continued collaboration to enhance education and employment mobility is essential to fulfilling policy commitments across the island and driving long-term, sustainable productivity. Joining North West Tertiary Education Cluster and Dublin Belfast Economic Corridor as event sponsors were Accounting Technicians Ireland, Dublin City University, Dundalk Institute of Technology, EPIC Futures NI, InterTradeIreland, Irish Business and Employers Confederation (Ibec), Queens University Belfast and Southern Regional College. Further information about the work of the Centre for Cross Border Cooperation can be found online at www.crossborder.ie This summer, Peter McVerry Trust delivered a summer activity programme across its 11 family homeless services, including one located in Louth. Designed specifically for the families living in their supported temporary accommodation, the programme offered an opportunity for fun, creativity, and connection experiences that can often be out of reach due to the challenges of homelessness. Over eight weeks, between 40 and 88 children aged 1 to 17 participated weekly in a wide range of themed activities designed to support development, encourage social interaction, and provide meaningful engagement during the summer months. Each week offered a new theme, from Nature Week with bug scavenger hunts and finger painting, to Sensory Week featuring slime-making and a beach party under the sun. Children explored culinary skills during Healthy Eating Week, crafted healthy fruit popsicles and enjoyed Bubble Week, and got active with outdoor games and musical statues during Active Week. The programme also included Art & Craft Week, where children expressed themselves through painting and papier-mache, and Puzzle Week, which encouraged problem-solving and perseverance. The summer concluded with a joyful Back to School Party, celebrating the childrens achievements and preparing them for the new school year with games, music and keepsake boxes filled with their summer creations. Feedback from families highlighted the positive impact of the programme: It was overwhelming being in accommodation, but the summer camp gave our children something exciting to look forward to. They still talk about the pizza-making and the sand box. The weekly activities helped build routines and gave the children a much-needed break. The healthy snacks were a lovely touch. A spokesperson for the Peter McVerry Trust said that the programme reflects its commitment to providing safe, supportive environments for families experiencing homelessness, while also nurturing the wellbeing and development of children during a critical time in their lives. Hilary Walsh, Head of Family Services at Peter McVerry Trust, said: "These activities are more than just fun, theyre a vital part of helping children feel safe, supported, and engaged. Were incredibly proud of the creativity and care our teams brought to this programme, and grateful to the families who participated and shared their experiences." Peter McVerry Trust says it hopes to continue and expand this initiative in future years, ensuring that every child in its services can experience the joy and stability that summer activities can bring. An open letter signed by people from Louth has called on Louth TDs to support investment in young people in Budget 2026, with an increased investment of 21.3m in youth work. The open letter, addressed to Deputy Paula Butterly, Deputy Joanna Byrne, Deputy Erin McGreehan, Deputy Gerald Nash, and Deputy Ruairi O Murchu, is a localised version of the National Youth Council of Irelands All Ages for Youth Work campaign, calling for increased investment to protect existing services, expand access, and fund safe, well-equipped spaces. The letter states: "We are 114 of your constituents in Louth urging you to support the call for an increased investment of 21.3m in youth work in Budget 2026. "You might think only young people care about youth work, but we are voters across all ages who believe in the value of youth work to our community. Nationally, this letter has been signed by: 461 people aged 18-24 327 people aged 25-34 523 people aged 35-44 945 people aged 45-54 725 people aged 55-64 644 people aged 65+ "Youth work supports mental health, builds confidence and life skills, and creates safe offline spaces where young people are supported to grow and thrive. "Right now, youth services are under real pressure. The cost of living, rising demand, and years of underfunding are making it harder to keep services running. "Thats why we have added our names to this localised version of the National Youth Council of Irelands All Ages for Youth Work campaign, calling for increased investment of 21.3m in Budget 2026 to protect existing services, expand access, and fund safe, well-equipped spaces. "As your constituents, we are asking you to support this call publicly, by raising this issue in the Dail and with Minister McEntee as soon as possible, to ensure that we have the best chance at securing investment for youth work locally. "With the right support, we can meet young peoples needs in Louth today and build stronger communities across Ireland for us all." Budget 2026 is set to be presented to Dail Eireann on 7 October. Heartfelt tributes have poured in following the sudden death of a young Irish firefighter, paramedic and father-of-two who passed away this week. David Stafford, from East Wall in Dublin, passed away "unexpectedly at home" on Thursday, September 25. He has been remembered in his RIP.ie death notice as the "beloved Partner of Steph and loving father of Blake and Quinn" and someone who will be "sadly missed by his father Gerry, sister Mandy and brothers Philip and Stephen, grandmother Sheila", extended family, colleagues, friends and neighbours. Dublin Fire Brigade described him as "an exceptionally well-liked and well thought of young man and Firefighter/Paramedic." READ MORE | Motorcyclist (30s) rushed to hospital with 'serious injuries' after crash on busy road In a statement, the service said: "All at Dublin Fire Brigade are deeply saddened by the loss of our colleague and friend David Stafford, Badge 750. Dave joined Dublin Fire Brigade as an Emergency Service Controller and worked his way to Firefighter/Paramedic. "Based in North Strand, David was an exceptionally well-liked and well thought of young man and Firefighter/Paramedic. In every aspect of his life and work, he held an exemplary record in DFB. "He will be sorely missed by all, especially his crew in North Strand." Friends, neighbours and colleagues also paid tribute, with one mourner writing: "Steph I can't even begin to imagine what you and both families are going through right now, I am so incredibly sorry for your loss, David was an absolute gent! I haven't stopped thinking of you all." READ MORE | Look out Ireland - British TV star the latest to embrace Irish roots in bid for passport A colleague wrote: "We will miss you so much on the watch, our dear friend and colleague. You will be with us on every turn out. Rest in peace Davey see you on the other side." Others recalled his kindness and humour, with one saying: "My sincere condolences to Stephen and all of David's family, friends and colleagues. I taught David in Joeys. He was an absolute gentleman. May he rest in peace." Local councillor Malachy Steenson said: "David was a lovely young man, a father of two, a partner, son and firefighter. He will be deeply missed within the community. Stephanie, Gerry, David's two little ones and indeed all his family and friends will be in our thoughts and prayers this weekend. RIP David, Ar dheis De go raibh a anam. David will repose at his home on Monday evening, with removal on Tuesday morning to St Joseph's Church, East Wall for Funeral Mass at 11am, followed by burial in New Balgriffin Cemetery. Having cocaine at Copperalley Bridge in Glanmire resulted in a three-month prison sentence being imposed on a 41-year-old man. Judge Mary Dorgan imposed that sentence on Alan OCallaghan of 36 Oakfield Avenue, Glanmire, at Cork District Court. He pleaded guilty to the charge of having cocaine for his own use on May 24, 2024, at Copperalley Bridge, Brooklodge, Glanmire. Eddie Burke solicitor said the defendant, who appeared in court by video link from prison was serving a longer sentence from Cork Circuit Criminal Court and is not due to be released until August 2026. This is a man who had a lot of difficulties with alcohol when young. He stayed out of trouble for eight or nine years but he turned to drugs and could not cope with drug addiction, Mr Burke said. Judge Dorgan imposed the sentence of three months in prison which would run concurrently with the sentence that is already being being served. A new sign language initiative, which will see thousands of public sector workers receiving upskilling and awareness training, has been launched by the Cork Deaf Association (CDA). The project provides targeted deaf awareness workshops to Cork based public bodies. Developing a deaf awareness module for HSeLanD.ie, the national online training platform for the HSE, was a key element to the project. The CDA celebrated the launch of the project called: Deaf Awareness, Public Service and the ISL Act at their premises in Cork. The organisation received 65,000 from Rethink Irelands Resilient Cork fund to put their plan into action. The initiative is designed to create awareness, educate and support public bodies in meeting obligations under the Irish Sign Language Act. The program is also aligned with the goals of International Week of Deaf People, which runs until Sunday, to promote the human rights, culture and achievements of the deaf community. Support Jerry Buttimer, minister of state for rural and community development, charities and transport, gave his support to the deaf community which led to the ISL Act. I am proud to stand here today in support of this important Cork Deaf Association initiative on this special week. This project, which assists public bodies to understand and meet their obligations under the ISL Act, is helping to turn rights into everyday reality. Susan OCallaghan, Cork Deaf Association advocacy officer, added: Its so important that we keep working towards better access, stronger support and real recognition of deaf rights. Were grateful for the ministers support and excited to begin this new chapter through the Rethink Ireland project. The Irish Sign Language (ISL) Act 2017 places a statutory duty on all public bodies to provide free interpretation of statutory entitlements and services. A national disability report, which was published in 2023, found that more than 50% of state bodies were either not aware of the ISL Act or were not aware of their responsibilities to Irelands deaf citizens under the Act. Munster Technological University (MTU) and Cork Airport have launched a new skills programme to support access to higher education. The free in-person single subject certificate is titled Starting Strong: Essential Skills for Higher Education is supported by Cork Airports Community Fund. The five credit certificate is designed to support adult learners and students from traditionally underrepresented backgrounds in gaining core academic, digital, and personal development skills required to succeed in higher education. The programme will be delivered using a universally designed, trauma-sensitive approach, in collaboration with the MTU Faculty of Health and Social Sciences. Facilitate MTU postgraduate students and academic staff will facilitate the initiative, with coordination provided by the Access Service team. Over the duration of a 12-week semester, participants will engage in weekly lectures focused on navigating higher education, academic reading and critical thinking, academic writing and assignment preparation, and digital literacy and understanding misinformation. Students will also learn practical skills such as using library databases, understanding academic texts, evaluating information sources and producing professional CVs and cover letters. Laura Coleman, access officer at MTU, said the certificate is about expanding access and creating opportunities for learners who may not have traditionally seen themselves in higher education. With the generous support of the Cork Airport Community Fund, we are proud to offer a practical, inclusive, and accessible option to support learners to grow in confidence and unlock new educational possibilities. Niall MacCarthy, managing director at Cork Airport, added: Cork Airport is committed to investing in the communities we serve through our Community Fund. We are delighted to support MTUs Starting Strong certificate, which will provide essential educational opportunities for individuals eager to grow and succeed. One of the best parts of being Mayor of the County of Cork is getting to meet people every day and hearing their stories first-hand. You get a unique insight into those that make our towns and villages so special, by sitting down with local faces for little get togethers. It gives me a chance to appreciate the voices that give Cork its unique sense of character. We lost one of the best earlier this month, councillor Patrick Gerard Murphy. We were colleagues and friends, forever linked by our desire to do what is best for the people of Cork through public service. Councillor Murphy was a great man, who possessed an innate desire to do right by those in need. He rose from humble origins on the Beara Peninsula to become county mayor between 2018-2019, after first joining Cork County Council in 2008. Councillor Murphy dedicated his life to supporting those with disabilities through his work with the National Learning Network in Bantry, while setting up Cork Local Link and Employability West Cork. I am honoured to have worked with councillor Murphy, and I will cherish our time together forever. Constituents needs We worked together to serve our constituents needs and make things better for everyone. That is why my role as mayor felt so fitting as I was involved in a number of different programmes and launches that were catered for people from all walks of life. It started with the roll out of the Cloth Nappy Starter Kit scheme through the Cloth Nappy Incentive Scheme with Cork County Council, Cork City Council and Cork University Maternity Hospital (CUMH). The kits will be available to antenatal patients at CUMH, and people can apply for a limited number of free cloth nappy starter kits. Each kit contains 10 high-quality reusable cloth nappies, a pack of 12 reusable cloth wipes, a waterproof storage bag for used nappies, nappy inserts for absorbency and comprehensive guidance on use and care. I believe that small changes like this can make a big difference as we look to create a sustainable future. National Womens Enterprise Day I felt the same way when we put out an open call encouraging female entrepreneurs and budding businesswomen from across Cork and Kerry to register for this years National Womens Enterprise Day which is scheduled to take place on October 16, at the Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Little Island, Cork. This is all about getting women to act on an idea or grow their business, and this event will outline all the key supports that are available, from financial and consultancy to training and mentoring. The theme will be Making It Happen as we urge women to take the next step by looking to the future. Anti-litter awards That feeling of what if can often manifest in the best possible outcome. That is what we all want, in our everyday lives and for our county. We got a chance to acknowledge those that strive towards that in their own towns and villages by hosting the Anti-Litter Awards at County Hall. Mayor of the County of Cork Cllr Mary Linehan Foley and chief executive of Cork County Council Moira Murrell, with first place Tidy Town winners Tadhg ODuinnin, Beal Atha Ghaorthaidh; Chris Maverley, Crosshaven; Tommy Burke, Millstreet, and Mary Corbett, Kanturk, at the 2025 Cork County Council Anti-Litter Challenge awards presentations at County Hall. I was delighted to attend alongside a record crowd of more than 170 people, as we celebrated community groups that are out picking up rubbish through rain, hail, sleet, and snow. The 2025 winning towns are Millstreet, Kanturk and Crosshaven. Macroom was named the most improved with Beal Atha an Ghaorthaidh and Knocknagree winning the village titles. Culture Night I finished my week by getting to see these small areas come to life on Culture Night, a national exhibition of the arts and creative expression that is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year. We launched a stacked programme of events with a special showcase at County Hall that was attended by community groups from all across Cork. It was wonderful to meet so many new people, and to once again get a unique insight into their lives by seeing what they are most passionate about. Cork men are being encouraged to ditch the briefs and raise money for mens cancer care. Radio Hosts PJ Gallagher and Jim McCabe of Radio Novas Morning Glory are asking the men of Cork to make the journey to Dublin for a dip in the Irish Sea in nothing but a dickie bow. The Dickie Dip, which is now in its sixth year, will take place on November 8 in Skerries, to raise funds for mens cancer care in the Mater Hospital. Since the inaugural event in 2019, The Dickie Dip participants have stood together with their fellow men and raised a phenomenal 600,000 to provide essential supports and services for mens cancer patients who need it most in the hospital. Dippers Last years event raised 186,000 for mens cancer care and the Mater Hospital Foundation is hoping to surpass that in 2025, with the help of the biggest group yet of determined dippers, from across the country, striding into the surf in Skerries. On doing the 2025 Dickie Dip, Radio Novas PJ Gallagher said: Last year Jim and I thought wed freeze to death but, honestly, if a few minutes in the Irish Sea can help raise awareness and funds for mens cancer care, then well happily strip off and dive back in. "Its cold, its mad, its a laugh and it could save lives. Thats a pretty good trade, if you ask me. There arent many occasions where you can say standing starkers on a beach with a bow tie is doing good for mankind but this is one of them," said PJs Morning Glory co-host Jim McCabe said. "The Dickie Dip is about more than just the craic, its about looking out for each other and making sure men get the care they need. Well be there, goosebumps and all, and we want as many lads as possible to join us" Mater patient and Dipper Ronnie said: Last October, I got a diagnosis of prostate cancer. It was obviously a difficult time dealing with that news and I felt I had no other choice but to try to turn a negative situation into a positive one. Then along came the Dickie Dip. The perfect opportunity to give something back to all the staff who looked after me. To take part, visit https://www.materfoundation.ie/mater-events/dickie-dip/, and fill out the registration form. By Nicole McBride, PA Thousands of people took to the streets of Dublin for a United Against Racism rally. The parade departed from Parnell Square at about 1pm on Saturday and made its way to Custom House Quay. The grassroots anti-racism group which organised the rally and carnival said it stands in solidarity with immigrants across the city who it said are under attack. The protest took place through the streets of Dublin (PA) One woman, who was seen shouting into a megaphone, led the crowd. The marchers could be heard chanting: Our immigrants are under attack. Say it loud, fight back. Say it loud, say it clear, immigrants are welcome here. Carnival performers led the procession (PA) Carnival performers, dancers and a steel band led the procession through the streets of Dublin. In a social media post on Saturday, United Against Racism said: All out to stand with our migrant community and celebrate what we can build when we come together. Lets make today the largest anti-racism demo possible and show once and for all that we are the majority. The protest was organised by United Against Racism (PA) Presidential candidate Catherine Connolly said she was delighted that an anti-racism, multi-cultural, community carnival was taking place in Dublin. United Against Racism organises counter-protests against far-right groups attempting to blame migrants for the housing crisis in Ireland. Farmer John OConnell faced a dilemma that summers day in 1933. His 21-year-old daughter, Mary, had won a raffle to fly in one of those new-fangled aeroplanes when the famous Alan Cobhams Flying Circus attraction came to Cork in July. John, 63, wondered should he allow it. His wife, Catherine, had died just six months earlier and it is little wonder he felt protective to their two daughters. In an era when travel was predominantly horse and trap and bicycles, going up in a plane was risky. John had often read in the Examiner of fatal air accidents. Should he give his blessing to his youngest daughter? It would involve her travelling 30 miles from their home at Coolbay Cross in Cloyne parish to Ballincollig, on the other side of Cork city. John teased it out. Mary had attended the Eucharistic Congress in Dublin a year earlier, it was true, but then she was travelling with a group of pilgrims, and accompanied by a curate from their parish. This popular air show was different, and was bound to attract young men in search of adventure. And Ballincollig still had a reputation as a garrison town populated by soldiers. John sought advice from relatives, neighbours and farm hands before reaching a decision: he agreed to Marys excursion, on condition there would be no overnight stay, and that Marys elder sister Kathy would act as chaperone. It was decided: Mary would get to fly after all! ****** With the sun inching over the horizon on Thursday, July 6, 1933, the alarm clock went off in the Cloyne farmstead. Half asleep, Mary turned it off. She and Kathy had decided on an early start, to make the most of the exciting day ahead. She got out of the bed she shared with Kathy and lit the globe oil lamp on the dressing table. Kathy got out too and, with the aid of a hand-held bicycle lamp, went downstairs to the kitchen to light the prepared range, to make porridge and boil the kettle for tea. Having washed, Mary got into her flying attire a calf-length flared floral summer dress. She needed to be agile to climb into an aeroplane, so had decided not to wear her bone-ribbed, tight-fitting laced corset. She put on the low-heeled walking shoes she normally reserved for Mass. Mary then put on her lipstick and Ponds face powder, unhooked her overcoat from behind the door, and went downstairs. After breakfast, and with the preparations for the farming day ahead complete, the sisters went outside and collected Dobbin from the adjacent paddock, put on the geldings tackle and hitched him to the horse trap. Their father had, the evening before, checked there was oil in the carriage lamps, and had a large bag of hay and a bucket ready for the two and a half hour trek to Midleton train station nine miles away. On arrival at the station, the sisters opened the door to the yard of a public house next door, unhitched the trap from Dobbin, took off his tackle, and led him by the mane to a gated, covered enclosure where he would rest until their return, alongside his hay and water. The girls boarded the train to Cork city, then took a special excursion bus for the makeshift airfield in Ballincollig. On arrival, Mary was told it would be two hours before she would climb into one of Alan Cobhams windowless planes. The sisters spread out the travel rug on a bank of rough grass and watched the acrobatic spectacles, whilst enjoying some of the picnic they had brought. Along with the rest of the large crowd, they gasped in amazement at the stunts by the pilots and aviators, who at the time were known as barnstormers. These included standing on the wings of planes in full flight, planes flying in military formation and upside down, and men jumping from the wings of planes and parachuting to the ground. Eventually, Mary was called to board a plane and was airborne, the slipstream blowing her hair horizontally behind her. She took in the views as she flew over the River Lee to Cork city and back, and felt airsick when the pilot did some minor stunts. After 20 minutes, the plane raced back to the makeshift grass runway and came to a halt. After all that excitement, the sisters took the excursion bus back to Cork city to do some shopping in Cash & Co in Patrick Street. But there was more drama to come that day. As they strolled through the city, Marys handbag was snatched from her hand and the thief vanished into the crowds. From that day on, Mary never visited Cork city without a large pocket sewn inside her overcoat where she kept her purse. The sisters headed home, and met their father standing in the middle of the road at Coolbay Cross, who guided Dobbin by the bridle back to the farm. Not long after, John OConnell got into bed in his Long Johns. In the dark, he reached under the bolster pillow for his rosary beads, and thanked God for the safe return of Mary and Kathy. He did not pray for the soul of, or curse, the thief who stole Marys handbag. The sisters had decided not to tell their father about that. ****** John OConnell was right to be apprehensive about flying. Cobhams Flying Circus left Cork after its two-day stay and set up in Ballycummin, Limerick, the next day, July 7, 1933. During that show there was a mid-air crash between two planes, and two people in a Gipsy Moth were killed the English pilot, and William Ower, 28, a motor mechanic from Newcastle West, who, like Mary, had won his flight in a raffle. That could have been my mother. Such is the lottery of life. Joe Terry is the author of two novels, The Curse Of The USS Annie Oakley and The Undoing Of Luke OReilly, available in public libraries and online. President Donald Trump has directed the Pentagon to send U.S. military troops to Portland as part of a crackdown on left-wing groups opposed to his immigration crackdowns and other policies. Democratic officials in Oregon are decrying Trump sending U.S. troops to an American city. In a social media post, Trump said he is authorizing full force to deal with ANTIFA and other left-wing domestic terrorists. At the request of Secretary of Homeland Security, Kristi Noem, I am directing Secretary of War, Pete Hegseth, to provide all necessary Troops to protect War ravaged Portland, and any of our ICE Facilities under siege from attack by Antifa, and other domestic terrorists. I am also authorizing Full Force, if necessary, Trump said. Portland has been a hotspot for ANTIFA and other left-wing protests for a number of years against police as well as Trumps policies. ANTIFA is a collection of anti-fascist, left-wing and sometimes anarchist activists opposed to conservatives and right-wing policies. Trump has issued an executive order aimed at ANTIFA and its supporters, calling them anarchists. Antifa is a militarist, anarchist enterprise that explicitly calls for the overthrow of the United States Government, law enforcement authorities, and our system of law. It uses illegal means to organize and execute a campaign of violence and terrorism nationwide to accomplish these goals. This campaign involves coordinated efforts to obstruct enforcement of Federal laws through armed standoffs with law enforcement, organized riots, violent assaults on Immigration and Customs Enforcement and other law enforcement officers, and routine doxing of and other threats against political figures and activists, Trumps order reads. All relevant executive departments and agencies shall utilize all applicable authorities to investigate, disrupt, and dismantle any and all illegal operations especially those involving terrorist actions conducted by Antifa or any person claiming to act on behalf of Antifa, or for which Antifa or any person claiming to act on behalf of Antifa provided material support, including necessary investigatory and prosecutorial actions against those who fund such operations, the Trump order continues. Democrats have questioned whether Trump has the legal authority to designation domestic groups and domestic terrorists. ANTIFA and other left-wing protests have vandalized Starbucks and other businesses as well as government buildings as part of their past protests in Oregon. Trump has already deployed U.S. military troops to Los Angeles and Washington D.C. and has threatened to send soldiers into Chicago, Baltimore, New York and other cities. Trump has also announced plans to send National Guard troops to Memphis to deal with high crime rates. Democrats and progressives in Oregon bristled at Trump's announcement. In my conversations directly with President Trump and Secretary Noem, I have been abundantly clear that Portland and the State of Oregon believe in the rule of law and can manage our own local public safety needs. There is no insurrection. There is no threat to national security, said Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek, a Democrat. U.S. Sen. Jeff Merkley, D-Oregon, said the Portland move aims to elicit aggressive responses. Trump is sending troops to Portland with the goal of doing a number on the city. We know what this means. He wants to stoke fear and chaos and trigger violent interactions and riots to justify expanded authoritarian control, Merkley said. Lets not take the bait. Trump and his aides have blamed left-wingers for the recent spate of political violence. That includes the assassination of Charlie Kirk, the killing of two kids at Catholic school Mass in Minnesota and fatal shootings at an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) complex in Dallas. Tenant farmers are demanding fairness and clarity from Englands first Tenant Farming Commissioner, as the NFU welcomes Alan Laidlaw into the role but warns he must prove his independence. Laidlaw, who brings more than 25 years experience in agriculture and land management, including senior roles at the Crown Estate, has been tasked with championing tenants and strengthening landlordtenant relations. The position was a key recommendation of the Rock Review and is central to delivering the Agricultural Landlord and Tenant Code of Practice. Tenant farmers manage around a third of Englands farmland, underlining the national importance of the role. Laidlaws first major engagement took place at NFU Deputy President David Exwoods Sussex farm, where he heard directly from tenants about the pressures shaping their businesses. The meeting was also attended by Defra Secretary Emma Reynolds, Tenant Farmers Association chief executive George Dunn, and Country Land and Business Association (CLA) Deputy President Gavin Lane. Exwood, himself a tenant farmer, spelled out the challenges. Extreme weather, price volatility, the family farm tax and uncertainty around future environmental schemes, particularly for those in the uplands, has left many tenants feeling vulnerable and low in confidence, he said. These factors are making it extremely difficult for tenant farmers to plan, invest and maintain business viability. He added that more clarity from government was vital, particularly around inheritance tax proposals and the need to safeguard domestic food production. Reynolds insisted the new Commissioner would provide a fresh voice. She said the role was uniquely placed to strengthen relationships and drive-up standards across the sector and would promote best practice and foster fair, collaborative relationships. The farm visit also gave the NFU the opportunity to press concerns about the impact of tax reform on family farms, with Exwood stressing that farm visits are one of the best ways we can lobby and demonstrate the impact that government decisions can have on the ground. The union has laid out unambiguous expectations for the Commissioner. Exwood said the role must be fiercely independent and without bias to landlords or tenants, working alongside the Code of Practice and the Farm Tenancy Forum with clear guidelines in place to define exactly what can or cannot be done and at what stage to become involved in disputes. These are the clear tests on whether this appointment will be deemed a success, he added. Laidlaw said he was honoured to be appointed as Englands first Commissioner for the tenant farming sector, supporting this vital sector with the fair framework it needs to thrive. Having worked across farming, land management and the rural economy, I know how strong tenantlandlord relationships can drive innovation, resilience and shared success, he said. I look forward to working with farmers, landlords and advisors to promote best practice, address challenges, and help build a fair, profitable and sustainable future for tenant farming in England. The NFU will continue to shape the debate at its Tenant Farmers Conference on 23 October, where the role of the Commissioner is expected to feature prominently alongside discussions on policy, business resilience and environmental schemes. A tragic day unfolded in Tamil Nadus Karur on Sunday when a stampede at actor-turned-politician Vijays rally left 39 people dead, including nine children and 17 women. More than 100 others were injured in the shocking incident that has shaken the state. The rally was organised by Vijays newly formed party, the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK), and drew thousands of supporters. Witnesses said the crowd became difficult to control as Vijay addressed the gathering. In the commotion, several people fainted, and panic quickly escalated into a stampede, with many trampled in the rush. Hours later, Vijay shared an emotional statement, expressing deep sorrow. My heart is shattered. I am writhing in unbearable, indescribable pain and sorrow that words cannot express. I extend my deepest condolences and sympathies to the families of my dear brothers and sisters who lost their lives in Karur. I pray for the swift recovery of those receiving treatment in the hospital, he said. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin called an emergency meeting soon after the incident. He announced compensation of 10 lakh Rs each for the families of the deceased and directed officials to provide immediate medical attention to the injured. Helplines 7010806322 and 04324256306 were also shared for families seeking information about loved ones. Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin condemned the tragedy, stressing that loss of life is not justified and called for stricter safety measures at public gatherings. Meanwhile, security has been tightened at Vijays Chennai residence following the incident, sources confirmed. The stampede has cast a dark shadow over Vijays political debut. What was meant to be a show of strength for TVK has turned into a moment of national mourning, raising urgent questions about crowd control and event safety. As Tamil Nadu grieves, leaders across political lines and members of the film industry have extended their condolences. For now, the focus remains on relief, recovery, and accountability for a tragedy that has claimed dozens of innocent lives. Also Read: Title and Teaser of Vijay Sethupathi, Puri Jagannadhs Film Soon Coalition of Global South leaders escalates international campaign for reparations, proposing formal UN mechanisms ACCRA, Ghana, Sept. 27, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The demand for reparations for the transatlantic slave trade and colonialism took center stage at the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly, as a coalition of Global South leaders mounted an unprecedented call for reparative justice while criticizing Western nations for their continued silence on historical crimes. Ghana's President John Dramani Mahama, serving as the African Union Champion for Reparations, delivered a landmark address that framed the debate in stark moral terms. He declared the slave trade "the greatest crime against humanity," referencing the forced displacement of over 12.5 million Africans to generate wealth for Western nations. "We must demand reparations for the enslavement of our people and the colonisation of our land that resulted in the theft of natural resources," President Mahama stated. He highlighted the historical irony that Western governments "happily paid reparations to former slave owners as compensation for the loss of their 'property'-the enslaved people themselves." "We recognise the value of our land and the value of our lives," he declared. Central African Republic President Faustin Archange Touadera reinforced the continental solidarity behind reparations, declaring that "the era of Africa's dependence is over." He called for a fundamental shift toward "sovereignty, not subordination; partnership, not exploitation." President Touadera condemned the persistent global inequality, stating it is "unacceptable to see poverty worsening in Africa while wealth accumulates in the Northern countries," while confirming his nation's full support for the pan-African reparations initiative. Bolivian President Luis Alberto Arce Catacora outlined specific mechanisms for addressing historical injustices, proposing the establishment of a dedicated UN commission on reparations covering "slavery, apartheid, genocide, and colonialism." "This commission must establish effective mechanisms to restore historical justice," President Arce explained, detailing three core components: Financial reparations, Environmental restoration and Restitution of stolen cultural property. He called for those responsible for historical crimes to contribute "billions of dollars into a reparations fund" and urged unity between the African Union and CELAC (Community of Latin American and Caribbean States) in confronting colonialism's lasting effects. A consistent theme across all presentations was profound disappointment with the Global North's engagement on reparative justice. Leaders expressed unanimous frustration that Western countries continue to avoid meaningful dialogue on the issue, demonstrating what they characterized as a deliberate unwillingness to acknowledge historical responsibilities. This coordinated stance at the UN General Assembly represents a significant escalation in the international reparations movement, signaling that former colonial powers can no longer sideline these demands on the global stage. The statements were delivered during the general debate of the 80th UN General Assembly session. Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2783629/Ghana_s_President_John_Dramani_Mahama.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/pan-african-people-african-leaders-demand-reparative-justice-at-un-general-assembly-decry-western-silence-on-colonial-crimes-302568835.html SHANGHAI, Sept. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- A news report from the Paper: The 2025 World Design Cities Conference (WDCC2025) officially opened on 25thSeptember 2025 in Shanghai, China. In 2010, Shanghai officially joined the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN). Over the past fifteen years, "Shanghai Design" has contributed wisdom and strength through innovation, creativity and creation to urban development. These days, as Shanghai accelerates its efforts in becoming a modernized international metropolis with global influence, it will better leverage the importance of design in empowering all sorts of industries. At the opening ceremony of WDCC2025, "Shanghai 2010-2025: 15th Anniversary as a UNESCO City of Design - Results and Achievements" report was officially released, alongside Shanghai's policy measures in promoting cosmetics industry's development and a series of creative design and fashion consumer goods industry projects. The ceremony also awarded 2025 Shanghai Youth Design Talent U35 Certificates, 2025 "Shanghai Design 100+" Global Competition Annual Awards and 2025 "Frontier Design Prize". As a flagship event in the design industry, WDCC2025 undertakes its mission and vision to build a global design innovation cooperation platform and to explore means of design in driving development of new quality productive forces. Furthermore, it strives to build an ecological design weathervane, a new fashion-lifestyle paradigm and an industrial innovation cradle. This year marks the 15th anniversary of Shanghai joining the UCCN as well as being awarded the title of "Design City". WDCC2025 showcases Shanghai's innovation practices, presents to the world Shanghai's design propositions including "ecological design", and launches Shanghai Youth Design Talent "U35 Program" for the first time. During the conference, domestic and international renowned academicians and masters, industry-leading enterprises and designer representatives have been invited to hold various forums, working together to build a new framework for global design cooperation and development. CONTACT: xiangxe@thepaper.cn Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2783659/image_5029452_6983518.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/2025-world-design-cities-conference-opens-in-shanghai-302568855.html WUHAN, China, Sept. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- From September 23-25, EVE Energy showcased its Mr. flagship series products and comprehensive energy storage solutions at Solar & Storage Live UK 2025. During the event, EVE signed a 500MWh strategic cooperation agreement with Polish smart PV system innovator CommVOLT Sp. z o.o. to jointly advance Europe's energy transition. Leading Scale Delivery Demonstrates Large Battery Commercialization Strength Leveraging deep technical expertise and manufacturing excellence, EVE Energy has pioneered key large-scale energy storage battery technologies, being the first to launch and mass-produce the 628Ah ultra-high capacity storage battery. Notably, the 5MWh DC energy storage system - Mr.Giant, which integrates Mr.Big cells with minimalistic design, was deployed in a 400MWh-level independent energy storage project in September. Shipments to Australia and Europe have commenced, marking the global application era for EVE's large batteries and systems. Against the backdrop of increasing renewable energy penetration in Europe, grid-side storage is set to be a major growth driver. EVE Energy's Mr. Big cells significantly optimize system integration, reduce heat generation, and enhance simplicity, reliability, and lifecycle cost (LCOS) from the source. The exhibition underscored EVE's commitment to delivering mature, innovative technologies that create core value for customers. 500MWh Strategic Cooperation with CommVOLT At the exhibition, focusing on the growing demand for Commercial and Industrial ESS in Europe, EVE and CommVOLT signed a 500MWh strategic agreement. This deepened partnership will not only integrate products with market needs and improve grid stability and renewable energy absorption but also establish benchmark storage projects in Central and Eastern Europe, accelerating the region's green energy transition. The agreement represents another major large-scale application of EVE's innovative storage technology in Europe, validating its maturity and market competitiveness. It stands as a practical example of EVE Energy sharing technological achievements with global partners to advance green development. Full-Scenario Solutions for Europe's Energy Transition EVE Energy presented a full range of storage solutions tailored to European scenarios including Utility ESS, Commercial and Industrial ESS, Telecom ESS, and Residential ESS. The company is committed to addressing diverse needs for energy security, cost reduction, efficiency, and sustainability through its versatile product portfolio and advanced technology platforms. Moving forward, EVE Energy will continue to innovate and collaborate with outstanding partners worldwide, offering more reliable, safe, and cost-effective energy storage products and solutions to contribute to a cleaner, low-carbon global energy system. Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2783748/image_1.jpg Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2783749/image_2.jpg View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/500mwh-eve-energy-and-commvolt-signed-strategic-agreement-to-boost-europes-green-energy-transition-302568966.html Kaohsiung, Taiwan--(Newsfile Corp. - September 28, 2025) - The International Performing Arts Consortium (IPAC) has teamed up with Ariel Imaginarium to create an inclusive and accessible performance experience for the upcoming Taiwanese staging of Kamada March Finale: Gin's Departure. The production, set to premiere in October 2025, marks an exciting collaboration that will break cultural barriers and create a more immersive theatrical experience for audiences through innovative language translations. Photo: Japanese Language Influencer: Cola Wang To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8814/267934_9ac3eac4146269f0_002full.jpg A New Era of Translation in Performing Arts In a world where the theatrical community strives for global connection and understanding, IPAC continues to disrupt the traditional theater industry by blending technology with creativity. One of their groundbreaking initiatives is the incorporation of supertitles into stage performances, which helps break down the language barrier in ways that traditional subtitles cannot achieve. Dr. Sophia Huang, the CEO of IPAC and the Executive Producer at Ariel Imaginarium, explains, "Straightforward translation would immediately disengage audiences. To truly appreciate the richness of the original work, Taiwanese audiences need more than subtitles. Translation is not only about words, it is about carrying over culture, emotions, and values from a particular era." IPAC's focus on providing more than just a translation to audiences aligns with their larger mission: to promote diversity and unity in theater. The organization ensures that the essence of performances can resonate across different cultures and audiences by integrating language in a way that reflects the emotional depth of the performance, enabling a universal connection. Introducing Cola Wang as Script Translation Consultant A pivotal part of the Kamada, March Finale: Gin's Departure production is the appointment of Cola Wang as the script translation consultant. Wang, a renowned Japanese language teacher and cultural influencer, brings a deep understanding of the Japanese language and culture to the project. Known for his ability to bridge the gap between Japan and Taiwan, Wang's expertise will elevate the production's supertitles, making them emotionally rich and culturally precise. Wang's philosophy of language as more than a tool for communication is a perfect match for IPAC's mission of creating theater that transcends borders. "Language is not just about communication," says Wang. "It's a bridge between cultures, between generations, and between the past and the present. By enhancing these translations, we can provide the audience with an experience that goes beyond understanding the dialogue, it will evoke a deep connection with the story." Storytelling Supertitles: A Groundbreaking Approach International Performing Arts Consortium Announces Partnership with Ariel Imaginarium and Japanese Language Influencer To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8814/267934_9ac3eac4146269f0_003full.jpg The collaboration between IPAC, Ariel Imaginarium, and Cola Wang also strengthens the Storytelling Supertitles initiative. Ariel Imaginarium is committed to creating adaptive translations that integrate seamlessly into stage design. This approach goes beyond literal captioning, using language to evoke emotional depth and to amplify the cultural experience of the performance. For Kamada March Finale: Gin's Departure production, this initiative will help ensure that Taiwanese audiences do not just follow the dialogue but also understand the emotional undertones and cultural significance of the performance. The team aims to deliver a theatrical experience that immerses audiences fully in the Showa-era story, enabling them to feel the heartbeat of Japanese culture as they witness the drama unfold on stage. A Cross-Cultural Collaboration Set to premiere on October 12th, 2025, at the National Kaohsiung Center for the Arts - Weiwuying, Kamada March Finale: Gin's Departure will feature a unique blend of Taiwanese and Japanese talents, combining the creative brilliance of both nations. With the guidance of Cola Wang and the support of IPAC's network, this cross-cultural production is set to showcase the power of global theater collaboration. In a statement, Dr. Huang reflects, "This production highlights the strength of international collaboration. By bringing together artists from Taiwan and Japan, we are celebrating diversity, innovation, and the enduring power of storytelling. We believe this production will redefine the global theater experience and open new doors for future cross-cultural projects." About International Performing Arts Consortium The International Performing Arts Consortium (IPAC) is a non-profit organization dedicated to the global theater and performing arts community. Through its mission to empower artists and promote diversity, IPAC serves as a platform for creative expressions, offering a range of services from initial concept development to final production. The organization embraces and celebrates global theater traditions, providing a space where artists can connect, collaborate, and create groundbreaking performances that resonate across cultures. Media Contact To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/267934 SOURCE: Plentisoft Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann. Forget introvert and extrovert, theres a new vert in town: its an otrovert. This personality trait, coined by American psychologist Dr Rami Kaminski, is a person who is highly sociable but feels no sense of belonging to any group Otroverts are those who are popular, sociable and deeply invested in one-on-one relationships, but who struggle to have a sense of belonging in groups. Representational image/Pixabay How do you define yourself in a social setting? Its a question we are often asked be it by dating apps, or by friends and relatives. And most of us answer by either stating that we are an introvert or an extrovert. There are those who respond by saying they are ambiverts but, lets be honest, thats neither here nor there. But what if none of these terms explain you in the most accurate of ways? Well, now theres another option and thats being an otrovert. In fact, just a few days back, Bollywood actor Diana Penty in an NDTV interview described herself as being an otrovert, adding: Thats my new thing; I am not an introvert, am an otrovert. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD But what does it mean to be an otrovert? Neither an introvert or an extrovert The term otrovert, often mispronounced as outrovert, was coined by psychiatrist American Dr Rami Kaminski. The word is derived from the Spanish word otro, which means other. In an essay written for New Scientist, he wrote that as a child when he joined the Scouts and they were repeating the pledge, he had no feelings whereas the other children seemed awed by the initiation. As I said the words out loud, I knew for the first time that I was different. While the other kids seemed awed by this initiation by the sacred bond forged with their fellow inductees and all those who had come before them I felt nothing. They were just words, he wrote. He further explains that this helped him realise that a third personality trait existed and they were otroverts, meaning a person who feels no sense of belonging to any group. He adds that otroverts dont feel the obligation to merge their identities with others. We are all born as otroverts, before the cultural conditioning of childhood cements our affiliations with various identities and groups. According to the psychologist who has coined the term otrovert, they find self-worth and direction through independence. Representational image/Pixabay Identifying an otrovert So, how does one spot an otrovert? According to Dr Kaminski, otroverts are not communal, not feeling a sense of belonging or allegiance to any group. Otroverts, according to the psychologist, energise themselves by thinking their own thoughts. They do not have to withdraw from the group in order to recharge, as it is not the group that is draining. Its exposure to the group think. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD They are more comfortable in one-to-one bonds rather than large group settings and dont fall prey to peer pressure. Moreover, they are not interested in what everyone is doing or talking about theres no Fomo and dont need validation from others. Dr Kaminski further noted that otroverts tend to be soft spoken, polite, and helpful, and while they may not enjoy small talk or have a wide social circle, they engage deeply and authentically one-on-one. Additionally, at work, being in a team could be draining for an otrovert; they would prefer self-employment or perhaps managing a team. In relationships, otroverts allow for a stronger, more meaningful bond to be built. According to the psychologist behind the term, if you answer yes to most of these statements, you could be an otrovert: I am truly close to very few people in my life. When I am sad, I need people to cheer me up. I consider thinking an activity. I like being alone, I am my best company. I am the first one to hear about hot new places. I develop a personal philosophy to guide my life rather than adopting one from the outside. I want to be understood. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Pros and cons of being an otrovert Because theres a heavy premium put on joining in, otroverts often feel misunderstood. Dr Kaminski notes, We put so much stock in communality that a different stance is understood as pathology. Otroverts are perceived as weird and wrong for preferring solitude over socialising, and subjected to peer pressure from well-meaning people who genuinely desire their companionship or who would hate for them to miss out on all the fun. What these people fail to realise is that for otroverts, there is great freedom and fulfilment in sitting on the sidelines. In The Guardian, Dr Kaminski further noted, Otroverts are well equipped not only to thrive in our fractured, angry world, but also to show others the way. The reason is simple: they see people, including themselves, as individuals, not just faceless members of a tribe. It is easy to hate a formless group that you are taught to perceive as different, inferior, or threatening. With inputs from agencies On Sunday, police arrested Swami Chaitanyananda Saraswati, a self-styled godman accused of molesting at least 17 female students at a private institute in Delhis Vasant Kunj. Students further claimed that the ashram wardens introduced them to Swami Chaitanyananda Saraswati, while certain women faculty members and administrative staff pressured them to give in to his demands. Image courtesy: News18 On Sunday, police arrested Swami Chaitanyananda Saraswati, a self-styled godman accused of molesting at least 17 female students at a private institute in Delhis Vasant Kunj. The Delhi baba was taken into custody from Agra, Uttar Pradesh. Chaitanyananda Saraswati, also known as Swami Parthasarathy, had allegedly sent obscene messages to young women. He has been on the run for nearly two months, CNN-News18 reported. The arrest came just days after a Delhi court rejected his anticipatory bail plea. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The Delhi baba is facing charges of sexual abuse and financial misappropriation. According to CNN-News18, police accused Chaitanyananda Saraswati of withdrawing around Rs 60 lakh after fleeing. He is also accused of misappropriating more than Rs 30 crore. It is pertinent to note that Chaitanyananda was the director of the Sri Sharada Institute of Indian Management in southwest Delhi. Authorities noted that he allegedly misused his position to sexually harass women. According to CNN-News18, the Baba used to target women from economically weaker backgrounds in an attempt to force them into sexual relations. The arrest took place at 3:30 am at a hotel in Agra. Soon after the allegations started to surface, Sri Sringeri Math administration relieved Swami Chaitanyananda Saraswati as director, and the police issued a Look-Out Notice to prevent him from fleeing the country. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin has ordered an investigation, to be led by Justice Aruna Jagadeesan, into the stampede that occurred at actor Vijays rally in Karur Tamil Nadus police chief, G. Venkataraman, cited a seven-hour delay by actor-politician Vijay as a key factor in the deadly stampede at his Tamil Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) rally in Karur on Saturday. The event, originally slated for 3 pm, saw Vijay arrive at 7:30 pm, leading to an uncontrollable surge of supporters. This surge, which resulted in 39 deaths and close to 100 injuries, was made worse by a severe mismatch in crowd management. The actual attendance of 27,000 people was nearly triple the 10,000 estimated by organisers, while only 500 police personnel were deployed. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Earlier rallies of TVK had smaller crowds, but this time the turnout was far higher than expected, Venkataraman said in a late night press conference. The police chief pointed to logistical failures and an early social media announcement as factors in the tragedy. He stated that the TVKs official X account caused an unexpected influx by declaring that Vijay would arrive at noon, even though the rally was officially permitted for 3 pm to 10 pm. This premature arrival and extended waiting time meant that the crowd endured hours under the hot sun without adequate food and water at the venue. Footage from the venue showed thousands gathered around a large campaign vehicle, with Vijay standing atop it, addressing the crowd. At one point, he was seen tossing water bottles to fainting fans and urgently calling for police backup as the situation spiralled out of control. VIDEO | TVK leader Vijay pauses speech in Karur, distributes water to people, arranges for ambulance for those in the crowd feeling suffocated. (Full video available on PTI Videos - https://t.co/n147TvrpG7) pic.twitter.com/uCBNuilCBZ Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) September 27, 2025 Vijay shattered by Karur tragedy Vijay, whos been pulling massive crowds since launching TVK in 2024, said the Karur stampede left him heartbroken and in unbearable pain, calling it one of the darkest moments of his journey so far. My heart is broken; I am in unbearable, indescribable pain and sorrow, he wrote on X. I extend my deepest condolences and sympathies to the families of my dear brothers and sisters who lost their lives in Karur. I pray for the swift recovery of those receiving treatment in the hospital, he added. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Vijay has been actively campaigning ahead of the Tamil Nadu state elections, scheduled for early 2026. The recent tragedy has brought fresh attention to TVKs rallies, which have repeatedly violated official restrictions. Despite a ban on roadshows, Vijays travel to venues often turned into large processions, with hundreds of party workers joining his convoy. Courts had earlier warned about such risks and placed responsibility on both Vijay and the police for maintaining order. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin has announced a commission, led by retired judge Aruna Jagadeesan, to investigate the incident. The probe will look into whether the police underestimated the crowd size or if Vijays late arrival was a planned move to draw bigger crowds. Meanwhile, Stalin said the families of those who died in the stampede at will get Rs 10 lakh each, and those who were injured will receive Rs 1 lakh. Russia will likely continue to probe Europes weaknesses, including its defences against drone technology, to test the resolve of the Euro-Atlantic alliance The 'Russkiy Mir' ('Russian World') is a Kremlin-promoted doctrine which asserts that Russia has the right to a preeminent political, cultural, and military role in the post-Soviet space. Image: Reuters/File Photo Robert M Gates, former US Secretary of Defence, had said, The categories of warfare are blurring and no longer fit into neat, tidy boxes. One can expect to see more tools and tactics of destructionfrom the sophisticated to the simplebeing employed simultaneously in hybrid and more complex forms of warfare. This quote highlights the complexity of modern conflict, where hybrid tactics mix traditional and unconventional means. Hybrid warfare is a military strategy that blends conventional warfare tactics with unconventional methods to achieve political or strategic goals. Rather than aiming for a decisive military victory, it often focuses on destabilising and weakening an adversary from within, frequently operating in the grey zone between war and peace. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD While addressing the UN General Assembly on September 24, Polish Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski described Russias actions in Europe as a hybrid war on multiple fronts. He was referring to alleged Russian efforts to foster instability in other countries using conventional and unconventional means, while avoiding all-out war. Sikorski asserted that Russia continues to innovate its hybrid tactics to probe European weaknesses, as recent incidents in 2025 indicate. According to many European leaders, intelligence officials, and security analysts, Russias hybrid war, or shadow war, involves a wide range of tactics designed to undermine European security and cohesion while staying below the threshold of open military conflict. They say that multiple incidents in 2024 and 2025 illustrate the intensifying nature of this campaign across the continent. According to them, the purpose of Russias hybrid warfare is to destabilise and weaken its adversaries, particularly Western democracies, by leveraging a wide range of non-military and military tactics below the threshold of all-out conventional war. This approach aims to create chaos and uncertainty, sow division, and undermine trust in democratic institutions, all while maintaining plausible deniability. Nato has alleged that hundreds of incidents have taken place in recent years involving Russian jets violating the airspace of Baltic nations. In September 2025, drones reportedly entered Polish, Romanian and Estonian airspace. In September 2025, airports in Norway and Denmark temporarily suspended operations due to suspicious drone activity. In December 2024, a Russian-linked shadow fleet tanker is suspected of having cut an underwater power cable between Estonia and Finland. Russian vessels have also been allegedly engaged in espionage activities near critical energy and communication cables in the North Sea for years. Both the EU and Nato have described such hybrid warfare as a priority threat and have tried to develop strategies to address it. Nato has stated that hybrid attacks could potentially trigger Article 5, the collective defence clause. Since 2024, Nato has increased intelligence sharing and revised its strategy to enhance resilience against hybrid threats, while the EU has adopted the Cyber Solidarity Act to improve threat detection and response. The EU has attributed cyberattacks targeting democratic institutions, electoral processes, media, and other critical entities in Germany, the Czech Republic, and France to Russia-controlled groups. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD While Europe has implemented extensive measures to counter Russias hybrid warfare, its ability to respond remains fragmented and faces persistent challenges. Significant efforts have been made, particularly since the 2022 invasion of Ukraine, but the effectiveness of the response is limited by internal inconsistencies and Russias changing and evolving tactics. Some experts argue that European countries must adopt semi-wartime thinking to respond more quickly to evolving threats, especially in areas like drone technology. In October 2024, the EU established a new framework for targeted restrictive measures against those responsible for Russian destabilising activities. Sanctions have also targeted specific individuals, such as Russian intelligence agents and propagandists who are allegedly responsible for spreading disinformation. However, the economic impact of these measures is mixed, and Russia has adopted a wartime economy and pivoted to non-sanctioning trade partners to absorb the pressure. As regards cybersecurity, the EUs East Task Force attempts to track any Russian disinformation, and new regulations like the Digital Services Act aim to hold platforms accountable. Civil society organisations in countries like the Baltic states and Poland have also strengthened fact-checking networks. On cybersecurity, the EU has reportedly adopted several new acts since 2024 to strengthen defences, including the Cyber Resilience Act. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD However, the effectiveness of European efforts is obstructed by fragmented and uneven national-level responses. Some countries in Eastern Europe have developed robust strategies, while others, particularly in the south, have lagged behind. For example, despite efforts to diversify energy sources, some European nations, notably Spain, remain highly dependent on Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG), giving Russia leverage. Many European leaders feel that Europe has the tools and a strong institutional framework through the EU and Nato to counter Russias hybrid war. However, a fully effective, unified response is hampered by a lack of coordinated, cohesive implementation across all member states and by Russias flexible and adaptable tactics. They assert that the continued threat from Russia highlights the ongoing need for increased investment, collaboration, and a consistent, continent-wide strategy to boost resilience. Many critics feel that Russia still pursues the concept of a sphere of influence, aiming to assert control or dominance over neighbouring independent European countries. This policy is a continuation of historical Russian and Soviet ambitions for regional control, most prominently demonstrated by their actions in Ukraine. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The Russkiy Mir (Russian World) is a Kremlin-promoted doctrine which asserts that Russia has the right to a preeminent political, cultural, and military role in the post-Soviet space, including in countries with Russian-speaking populations. Countries like Moldova, Georgia, and Ukraine are viewed by Moscow as within its near abroad and are major targets for Russian influence operations. Russia actively attempts to prevent them from integrating further with the West, particularly through joining the EU and Nato. Despite these efforts by Russia, resistance from targeted countries and strong unified opposition from most of the EU and Nato have largely thwarted Russias ambitions to re-establish the kind of control it held during the Soviet era. However, experts predict an intensifying campaign of hybrid warfare from Russia in 2025, with increasing attacks on critical infrastructure, escalating information manipulation, and continued political destabilisation efforts across the continent. While European institutions and member states are bolstering defences, a fully coordinated and effective response remains a significant challenge. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Summing up, the outlook for Europe remains volatile, as Russia is expected to continue and adapt its hybrid warfare tactics. Hybrid warfare will likely remain a persistent security challenge for Europe, with Russian activities continuing to escalate and evolve. Russian operations will continue to exploit societal divisions to undermine EU and Nato cohesion, especially around elections and key policy decisions. Russia will likely continue to probe Europes weaknesses, including its defences against drone technology, to test the resolve of the Euro-Atlantic alliance. European nations face a balancing act between providing support to Ukraine and investing in their own military and hybrid defence capabilities. The writer is a retired Indian diplomat and had previously served as Ambassador in Kuwait and Morocco and as Consul General in New York. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views. In a hot climate like that of India, where climate change is increasingly showing its presence, and for structures which have suffered historic damage, one is forced to wonder if as is, where is is a sensible conservation strategy Vishnu idol in Khajuraho whose head has been broken off, most likely by a mediaeval iconoclast. Image: X/@ImAtulp A few days ago, a comment by Chief Justice of India BR Gavai sparked a furore. The comment pertained to an ancient Vishnu idol in Khajuraho whose head has been broken off, most likely by a mediaeval iconoclast. The Chief Justice refused a petition seeking to reconstruct the head of the idol, mentioning that this was part of a site controlled by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). However, beyond this idol and the subsequent controversy, there is ample ground to ask some serious questions of the ASI. And the occasion of World Tourism Day, which was observed Saturday, September 27, is perhaps the most appropriate time to pose those questions. When it comes to heritage, especially Hindu and Buddhist religious sites, the ASI seems to have a strange belief in as is, where is. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD This essentially means an attempt to preserve a decaying site in that state of decay. But in a hot climate like that of India, where climate change is increasingly showing its presence, and for structures which have suffered historic damage, one is forced to wonder if as is, where is is a sensible conservation strategy, or if it is mere bureaucratic status-quoist behaviour at work? There are two key issues that come up herein: Built architecture dating back centuries or more is already in a state of neglect and decline. To imagine that this decline can be arrested and kept in that state is delusional. The enormous opportunity to drive tourism that restored heritage sites would offer. ASI officials often balk at the thought of restoring ruined sites, to the point where they are almost reconstructed. The greatest example of such reconstruction is the Borobudur stupa. Located on the island of Java, Indonesia, it is in the Ring of Fire zone of volcanic and tectonic activity. By the 1950s, this ancient monument was in ruins. Between 1975 and 1982, Borobudur was entirely rebuilt using the fallen material. Spectacular results followed. In 1991, came Unesco World Heritage status. In 2024, it was visited by 1.3 million tourists, which included over 2 lakh foreign visitors. With an entry fee equivalent to $25 per adult, that is a staggering 5 million dollars from foreign tourists alone. Not to mention domestic visitors and the much larger ecosystem of hotels, restaurants, retail outlets and local travel to facilitate tourism. We present a set of such sites that currently lie in a state of ruin or semi-conservation but would benefit immensely from full-scale restoration. These sites are all protected officially but are sliding into decay. Kesariya Stupa, East Champaran, Bihar: Older than Borobudur and once the tallest stupa in the world, the Kesariya is a partly excavated site with a direct linkage to the life of the Buddha himself. It was here that he told his Licchavi disciples of his impending nirvana and asked them to return to Vaishali, giving them his alms bowl as a token of remembrance. In its semi-collapsed state, entry to the stupa complex is free of cost a missed opportunity. Imagine this site reconstructed and made part of a larger Buddhist circuit touching Bodh Gaya, Nalanda, Vaishali, Kushinagar, Sarnath, etc. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Kesariya Stupa, East Champaran, Bihar Martand Sun Temple, Anantnag, Kashmir: In a land that has witnessed ethnic cleansing of Hindus in multiple waves over centuries, the massive but entirely ruined Sun Temple at Martand reminds visitors of the past. Think of the psychological impact of rebuilding this site on a populace that is currently forgetting that Kashmir was once largely Hindu-Buddhist. Not to mention that this would create an economic magnet for the region and a narrative that moves away from Islamic separatist theories. Sun Temple at Martand, Anantnag, Kashmir Deogarh, Lalitpur, Uttar Pradesh: Lying in the economically backward region of Bundelkhand, the site is an eclectic mix of varied eras. The most significant monument is the Gupta-period Dashavatara Temple, containing beautiful, sculpted panels. On a nearby hill is a group of ancient Jain temples, still in worship. Carved along cliffs overlooking a river are many more icons and inscriptions. A few kilometres away, at Dudhai, is a thousand-year-old Narasimha icon that is more than forty feet high and carved on a hill wall. The fine lines of sculpture on the temples are beginning to fade. Do the ASI realise that without a full restoration, they will not survive? STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Jain icons at Deogarh, Lalitpur, Uttar Pradesh Carved panel at the Dashavatara Temple at Deogarh, Lalitpur, UP Sirpur, Mahasamund, Chhattisgarh: While some may be surprised at seeing this much-acclaimed and protected site on the list, the focus of visitors is largely on the iconic Laxmana Temple. What is missed is that vastness of the place, once the capital of the Panduvanshi dynasty. It is a rare site that encompasses Hindu, Buddhist and Jain remains dated between the 5th and 12th centuries. Numerous structures such as the Teevardev Temple, Surang Tila, Balesvara Mahadev Temple complex, Shiva and Harihara temples and a Buddhist vihara lie in ruins. Think of the cumulative effect of a rebuilt historic city where the states culture and cuisine are also showcased. And with a wildlife sanctuary thrown in at nearby Barnawarapara, Sirpur could attract visitors in hordes. Balesvara Mahadev Temple complex, Sirpur, Chhattisgarh Stepwells of Ahmedabad, Gujarat: In an era where water conservation and sustainable development are increasingly spoken of, and in a city which has itself received World Heritage Status, one aspect is forgotten. The mediaeval city of Ahmedabad was serviced by numerous stepwells. Many have survived, albeit with their aquifers filled in, destroying their original purpose. Several have become temples, but uncontrolled modification threatens their structural integrity. Others are neglected. Imagine the effect if spaces such as the Dada Harir Vav, Ashapura ni Vav, Gandharva ni Vav, Sindwai Mata ni Vav and Amritavarshini ni Vav were to be revived as centres for art and culture. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Inside view of the Amritavarshini ni Vav, Ahmedabad Restoration of these sites, even reconstructing them, may offend the sensibilities of conservative heritage professionals, but it is time for an attitude change. The ASI and state archaeological bodies are all short of funds. Focused restoration driven by public-private partnerships, together with encouraging locals to prepare infrastructure to support tourism, would give them an economic stake in the upkeep of heritage. Time to rebuild our own Borobudurs! The author is a heritage explorer with a penchant for seeking obscure sites. A brand consultant by profession, he tweets @HiddenHeritage. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views. We have all seen the pictures. Of a chummy Rubio, Americas top diplomat, guffawing with Pakistans prime minister Sharif and field marshal Munir who were in Washington DC at the US presidents invite. The Pahalgam wounds are still oozing blood. Operation Sindoor has not been called off. The White House later released images of Trump flashing the thumbs up sign inside a garishly gilded Oval Office, flanked by a constipated Sharif and a puffed up Munir, who appeared to be wearing heels to match up to the taller US president. Appearance matters with Trump, and Pakistan has certainly caught up with him. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Then there were Trump and Melanias beaming images with Muhammad Yunus and his US-based daughter. Yunus, who runs an unelected, Islamist regime in Bangladesh, was in New York to attend the UNGA session. He kept blaming India wherever he got the chance to speak. As did Sharif, who spent the better part of his UNGA address venting frustrations at India. Not far behind was Recep Tayyip Erdogan, the president of Turkiye, who fashions himself as a neo-Ottoman ruler. Erdogan, who had sent a consignment of drones to Pakistan during Operation Sindoor, dutifully raked up Kashmir at UNGA and later posed for pictures with Trump after a one-on-one. Incidentally, Trump, a vindictive man, has never hidden his dislike for Yunus ever since the Nobel Laureate donated money to the Hillary Clinton campaign in 2016. And yet there he was, flashing his thumb and offering a beatific smile before the camera with Yunus in tow. One may be forgiven for surmising that Trump was making an explicit point to needle India. This conclusion is harder to avoid if we consider Trumps actions regarding India, Americas strategic partner with whom the US shares values, interests and strategic convergence in the Indo-Pacific (or have we gone back to the Asia-Pacific?) Since his return, Trump has held India firmly in his crosshairs. Be it trade, immigration, energy imports, diplomacy, strategic affairs or media narrative, even the most charitable interpretation of his slew of measures against India would seem adversarial. The pivot has been stark. India was among the rarest of nations that welcomed Trumps return to power. In about seven months, he has turned Indias entire public opinion on him from favourability to hostility. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Trump has slapped 25% tariff against Indian goods in April, as part of his broader reciprocity policy to correct perceived trade imbalances. He followed it up with another 25% additional tariffs, which he called sanctions, singling out India for punishment for buying Russian energy. Trump says India fuels Russias war against Ukraine, and profiteers by selling refined Russian fuel elsewhere. His cronies have called it Modis war, and India, a laundromat of Kremlin. The US sells weapons to NATO to be used in the war, and under Trump 2.0, US-Russia trade has grown by 20%. Washington buys fertilizers, uranium and palladium from Moscow. Europe remains the biggest buyer of Russian gas, while Turkey sources 66% of its crude, refined products and 41% of its natural gas from Russia. Hungary and Slovakia continue to rely largely on Russian gas and fuel to keep their economy running, whereas China remains the biggest buyer of Russian energy overall. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD In Trumps playbook, these actions do not amount to fuelling Putins war against Ukraine, but Indias purchase of price-capped Russian crude, does. One can justifiably accuse Trump of hypocrisy, but the US president is an even better salesman than just a hypocrite. By forcing India, the second-largest buyer, to stop sourcing hydrocarbons from Russia and get it from US instead, Trump will ensure that energy prices go up globally and allow the US, a major oil producer, to sweep up the profits. Trump is hitting India where it hurts the most. His trade war against India in form of 50% tariffs is specifically aimed at Indias labour-intensive exports, affecting billions in sectors like textiles, gems, jewelry, auto parts, and seafood. It has ravaged the industries and led to job losses. In September, Trump escalated further by announcing a 100% tariff on imported branded and patented pharmaceuticals. It is a potentially lethal blow to an industry in India almost entirely dependent on the American market. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The Trump administration has launched a Section 232 investigation into pharma imports to determine national security threats, potentially paving the way for even broader tariff applications. While the current tariffs explicitly target branded or patented pharmaceuticals, it has raised fears that generics could be next. The US is Indias largest pharma export destination, accounting for 31% of total exports valued at $8.7 billion in fiscal 2024. Trump has not spared services, posing a direct threat to Indias $190 billion services export industry by drastically hiking up the cost of H-1B visas and disproportionately targeting Indian IT employees who form about 71% of the total recipients. He has also threatened legal immigration overall, slapped restrictions on student visas despite admissions to American universities, and his anti-immigration policies may threaten student visa holders who are trying to secure H1B visas for better-paying jobs in America. The Economist quotes data from Goldman Sachs to report that services exports grew from $53 billion to $338 billion between 2005 and 2023, almost twice the global rate. That growth was driven by a boom in Indias population of engineers, particularly in computer science. The IT firms relied on sending engineers to America under the H-1B programme to serve clients, a cornerstone of their business model. This model now is in jeopardy. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Apart from the economic warfare, Trump is also hitting India strategically. The US has withdrawn the sanctions waiver on Irans Chabahar port, dealing a strategic blow to India. The move seals off the alternative route for India bypassing Pakistan for trade with Afghanistan and central Asia, hinders connectivity projects such as the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC), a multi-modal network designed to connect India with Russia and Europe via Iran, where Chabahar port was a crucial node, and denies India a strategic counterweight to Chinese influence in Pakistans Gwadar port. Alongside, Trump has imposed sanctions on at least six Indian companies for its dealings with Iran, hosted Pakistans army chief Munir for a White House lunch, while announcing American assistance for exploring Pakistans oil and gas reserves, not to speak of his offer of mediating in Kashmir. Trump has also put pressure on US firms such as Apple and Tesla against expanding manufacturing in India, threatened secondary sanctions over Russian arms deals, publicly labeled India a dead economy and called India and China the primary funders of the ongoing war in Ukraine. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Taken together, Trump is raising the cost of Indias autonomous foreign policy and forcing New Delhi to pick a side. In the US presidents transactional worldview, for India to reap the benefits of aligning its economy with Americas in a web of complementarity, it must either accept Americas vassalage, pay appropriate suzerainty (of the kind paid by a Japan or South Korea) or be prepared to cough up a steep price for adopting an independent, multi-aligned foreign policy. It remains to be seen whether these tariffs and sanctions are the last throw of the dice of a fading hegemon, but Trump and his giant tantrums are designed not to make the path for India smoother in its journey to become another pole in a multipolar world. America is now penalizing India for engagement with its adversaries and demanding greater strategic and economic alignment at the cost of severely bruising Indias economy. The agriculture and dairy sectors, as I had pointed out in the past, are redlines for any Indian leader simply because these unorganized sectors cater to nearly 50% of Indian population and over 85% of agricultural households are subsistence farmers who are either landless or hold fragmented plots that amount to just 47.3% of crop area. I had also pointed out in that piece that the majority of livestock breeders in India keep only two to three animals. Evidently, this small-scale structure makes Indian farmers and breeders vulnerable to competition from foreign producers and conglomerates that operate at a much larger scale and benefit from automation, advanced technologies and significant state subsidies. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Still, India was ready to walk the extra mile in its trade talks with the US and has been importing more American agricultural products. According to latest data from the USDA, American agricultural exports to India rose $1.936 billion in 2023 to $2.275 billion in 2024, marking a 17% increase ($339 million). India was the second-largest destination for American tree nuts, third-largest for ethanol, and seventh-largest for cotton. This growth aligns with broader trends, including the removal of Indias retaliatory tariffs on several US products in 20232024. During the ongoing trade negotiations, despite Indias reservations against Americas genetically modified crops entering its food chain, New Delhi indicated that it is ready to purchase more American corn for ethanol production. Trump should have taken this major win, but he wants even more. He wants India to bend the knee so that he may declare a headline grabbing win before his MAGA cult, sweep the Oval Office floor with Indias redlines, self-respect and crack open the barriers of New Delhis agriculture and dairy sectors like a cheap can of tuna so that American conglomerates and agrobusinesses may reap extractive profits. Trump wants India to sign a neocolonial deal and allow Washington to dictate its trade and energy policies. In short, Trump wants India to be a client state. The US president can afford to take such a gamble because he senses that India is in a double bind. New Delhi can neither afford to substitute America with China, its geopolitical and geoeconomic rival, nor can it accept the deal of servitude that Trump is extending. The Oval Office incumbent is a uniquely ignorant president with no grasp of history or geography but has an innate understanding of power politics. Trump has caught on to Indias existential dilemma and is trying to drive as hard a bargain as he possibly can. Evidently, India wont have the space, bandwidth or the good fortune to be aided with a tailwind as China enjoyed at Americas expense. In fact, taking a lesson from the way America dramatically developed China into a peer competitor, Trump wants to slow down Indias rise. He is rapidly closing the pathways as India demonstrates significant progress in moving up the value chain across critical and emerging technologies, and Trumps approach indicates that he identifies India as a potential long-term competitor. For India, the path to becoming a great power will be arduous climb, fraught with geopolitical risks and dramatically less space for hedging. One of the fundamental shifts Trump has initiated in American foreign policy posture is a change in the nature of rivalry with China from a strategic peer competitor to primarily an economic adversary. This reduces Indias importance in Americas grand strategy and dislodges New Delhi from its earlier position as a lynchpin in US Indo-Pacific strategy a democratic counterweight to China, to another middle power that has great power ambitions and runs an autonomous foreign policy that Trump is sceptical of, and finds exploitative. India is now just another economic rival to America, and Trump wont cede an inch. He has even less patience with Indias non-allied positions on contentious global issues such as Ukraine, Russian energy, or BRICS. In his approach, a non-allied position is an unannounced adversarial stance, and India must either fully align with the American bloc, or risk American pressure tactics and punitive tariffs. India must get ready for an intense economic competition with the US that will touch every dimension of its bilateral relationship, and this geopolitical churn will pose a stiff test for Indian leaders and policymakers. The writer is Deputy Executive Editor, Firstpost. He tweets as @sreemoytalukdar. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views. If the UN has failed in its mission, the United States has played no small part in the failure US President Donald Trump delivers remarks to the United Nations General Assembly at the UN headquarters in New York City. His almost hour-long speech was peppered with misleading claims on various topics, including him brokering peace between warring nations. AFP United States President Donald Trump delivered an unscripted address at the United Nations General Assembly on September 24, railing against the institution and calling it a failed organisation. What might have been dismissed as another unhinged tirade from a president famous for off-the-cuff rants nevertheless struck a chord: the United Nations was set up to prevent wars, and it has conspicuously failed to do so. The League of Nations, formed after the First World War, failed because it could not enforce its decisions, lacked the participation of major world powers, such as the US, was undermined by economic depression and rising nationalism, and ultimately proved ineffective in preventing aggression that led to the outbreak of the Second World War. Its formal end came in 1946 when it voluntarily dissolved, handing its responsibilities to the newly formed United Nations. So, has the UN passed the test? STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Since the UN was founded in 1945, numerous armed conflicts, including the Korean War, the Vietnam War, the Yugoslav Wars, the Iraq War, the Syrian Civil War and the Russian invasion of Ukraine, have occurred globally, though no world wars on the scale of the first two have taken place. The UN was established to prevent such large-scale conflicts and maintain international peace and security, but new wars have started on average every two months since its creation. Yet, the irony is hard to miss. If the UN has failed in its mission, the United States has played no small part in the failure. No country has more consistently bent, ignored or openly defied the organisations rules than Washington. Attacks on Climate Policy, Migration Trumps appearance at the General Assembly was chaotic from the start. After complaining about a malfunctioning escalator and a failed teleprompter, he embarked on a stream-of-consciousness attack on fellow world leaders, with his ex tempore performance taking about four times the allotted time for any head of state on the forum. He called climate change the worlds greatest scam, derided international migration and accused Londons Mayor Sadiq Khan of being terrible, even invoking Sharia law in reference to Britain. Khan, in turn, labelled Trump racist, sexist, misogynistic and Islamophobic. He mocked European renewable energy policies, attacked the UKs immigration system and spoke of ending unendable wars while hinting that he deserved a Nobel Peace Prize. Observers were reminded of previous moments when world leaders openly laughed at him during UN speechesa humiliation he seemed determined to avenge. The problem wasnt so much with the identification of issues as it was with the absence of clinching arguments. Climate change, or global warming, for example, is an undeniable truth. Its the percentage of the crisis attributable to human activities that is debatable. That migration has changed the face of western Europe unrecognisably is undeniable, too. Trump could not seal his point, however, by stating that eastern Europe, mainly Poland, is free of the scourge precisely because its immigration policy is not suicidal. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Anyway, buried beneath the spite, theatrics and poor polemics was the US presidents central message: the UN is broken, unfit for purpose and unable to enforce its own charter. That critique, stripped of Trumps delivery, carries weight. Yet if America wants to call the UN a failure, it must confront its own role in bringing the body to the brink of irrelevance. Defying Consensus The Security Councils veto power is perhaps the greatest obstacle to UN action. Since 1972, the US has cast more than 80 vetoes. An Oxfam report last year noted that nearly all Security Council vetoes over the past decade were linked to Syria, Palestine and Ukraine. That has not only paralysed the Council in these cases but also eroded the bodys legitimacy. Smaller states view the UN less as a guardian of international law and more as a battleground for great-power politics. While leftists would highlight how most of these vetoes constituted an exercise to shield Israel, the US also blocked resolutions that did not explicitly condemn Hamas for its actions, such as the October 7, 2023, attack on Israel. The fact that the US characterises specific resolutions as one-sided and biased against Israel, arguing they fail to acknowledge Israels right to self-defence, is downplayed in the mainstream discourse. Be that as it may, one thing both the left and the right would agree with is the fact that, with these vetoes, the US made it clear to the world that it couldnt care less about global consensus, even when the consensus is overwhelming. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD UN Be Damned When US Must Wage War When America wants the UNs blessing, however, it pushes hard to secure it. Before the First Gulf War in 1991, Washington lobbied for Security Council approval to expel Iraqi forces from Kuwait. France eventually swung behind the coalition; Russia was too weakened after the Soviet collapse to mount serious resistance, and the war proceeded with a UN mandate. However, that proved the exception, not the rule. In 2003, the US and its allies invaded Iraq without Security Council authorisation, despite vocal opposition from France, Russia and China. The justification weapons of mass destruction collapsed under scrutiny, and then, UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan later declared the invasion illegal under the UN Charter. The war destabilised West Asia, fuelled sectarian violence and undermined faith in international institutions. Perhaps the greatest irony surrounding Iraq surfaced when some retired CIA operatives revealed that they once hired Saddam Hussein to assassinate the Shah of Iran before that country witnessed a sponsored Islamic Revolution in 1977. That very Hussein would, in a matter of less than two more decades, turn into one of the topmost enemies identified by the Pentagon for elimination! STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The same disregard marked earlier and later conflictsVietnam, Yugoslavia, Afghanistan, etcwhere Washington acted unilaterally and left the UN sidelined. The UN Charter enshrines the principles of sovereignty and non-interference. Yet Americas Cold War record tells another story. In Iran in 1953, the CIA toppled Prime Minister Mohammad Mossadegh after he nationalised oil. The coup restored the Shah, thereby cementing decades of repression and ultimately paving the way for revolution. In Guatemala in 1954, another CIA operation removed President Jacobo Arbenz, whose land reforms threatened US corporate interests. The result was decades of civil war. Across Latin America and Africa, similar patterns emerged: Chiles Salvador Allende was ousted in 1973 with US support; Angola and the Congo saw Washington backing one faction against another. Political scientist Dov Levin has catalogued at least 81 cases of US election interference between 1946 and 2000. Propaganda, covert funding and proxy support were tools deployed to tilt outcomes. None of this had UN sanction. On the contrary, it directly contravened the bodys most basic principles. When America needs the UN, it uses it. When it does not, it sidelines it. Today, Nato is fighting alongside Ukraine, not under UN auspices but in defiance of Russia, another veto-wielding power. The UN is again irrelevant to the worlds most pressing war. The message is clear: the rules apply only when Washington agrees. This record has generated deep resentment across the developing world. Leaders in Africa, Asia and Latin America point to American interventions as evidence that the international order is skewed. The US manipulates civil society abroad, funds dissidents, amplifies internal divisions via media and social networks and pushes for regime change under the guise of democracy promotion. Whether through overt wars or covert destabilisation, the outcome is often the sameweakened states, prolonged conflicts and millions of displaced civiliansall of which the UN then struggles to manage. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD UN: Doomed? The UN has achieved significant milestones, including peacekeeping operations in dozens of conflicts, eradication campaigns against diseases, and providing humanitarian aid in the aftermath of disasters. Yet its central purposepreventing warlooks hollow when its most powerful members flout the rules. Reform proposals are perenniallimiting veto power, expanding the Security Council to include emerging powers or creating emergency mechanisms for humanitarian crises. But none can succeed without buy-in from the US, the very country most often accused of undermining the system. Donald Trumps speech may be remembered for his histrionics, attacks on rivals and dismissal of climate change. But his central claimthat the UN is a failed organisation cannot be dismissed entirely. The organisation has failed to stop wars. The irony is that the United States is the least qualified nation to voice that complaint. From Vietnam to Iraq, from covert coups to election meddling, from endless vetoes to unilateral wars, America has been the single greatest violator of the UNs spirit and charter. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD If the United Nations is broken, Washington bears a considerable part of the responsibility. To blame the institution without acknowledging that record is not just hypocrisyit is an abdication of accountability. The author is a senior journalist and writer. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views. Morena Verdi and her cousin Brenda del Castillo (both 20), as well as 15-year-old Lara Gutierrez, were found buried in the yard of a home in a Buenos Aires southern suburb Thousands march in Argentina over murder of girl and two young women Thousands of demonstrators in Buenos Aires clashed with police while protesting the torture and murder of two young women and a teenagera crime that was allegedly recorded and livestreamed on social media by a drug gang. Authorities reported that thousands took to the streets on Saturday to protest the killings that shook Argentina, after it was disclosed that the murders were live-streamed on Instagram and viewed by 45 members of a private account. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The bodies of cousins Morena Verdi and Brenda del Castillo, both 20 years old, along with 15-year-old Lara Gutierrez, were discovered buried in the yard of a house in a southern Buenos Aires suburb on Wednesday, five days after they disappeared. Investigators stated that the victims, believing they were headed to a party, were tricked into entering a van on September 19. This was reportedly part of a scheme to punish them for breaking gang rules and to serve as a warning to others. According to Javier Alonso, the security minister for Buenos Aires province, police found a video of the triple murder after a suspect linked to the disappearance confessed during questioning. Argentinian media detailed the horrific abuse the victims sufferedincluding being beaten, suffocated, and having their fingers and nails removedas the gang leader in the footage announced, This is what happens to those who steal drugs from me. While the majority of Saturdays demonstrators marched peacefully, a smaller group clashed with police, who responded aggressively by using batons and shields to push them away. Mobilizacao hoje em Buenos Aires em protesto contra o triplo feminicidio ocorrido esta semana em Florencio Varela, regiao metropolitana da capital argentina. Lara (15), Brenda (20) e Morena (20) foram esquartejadas e enterradas por integrantes de faccoes criminosas. Via pic.twitter.com/ukwVjbsBlB Rogerio Tomaz Jr. (@rogeriotomazjr) September 28, 2025 STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The families of the victims marched with thousands of supporters toward the Argentinian parliament, carrying a banner listing their loved ones namesLara, Brenda, Morenaalongside placards displaying their pictures. Women must be protected more than ever, Brendas father, Leonel del Castillo, said during the protest, as reported by AFP. He had previously expressed that he was unable to identify his daughters body due to the extent of the torture and murder she endured. Antonio del Castillo, the grandfather of the 20-year-old cousins, was also visibly emotional and described the perpetrators as bloodthirsty. You wouldnt do what they did to them to an animal, he said. As they marched, the protesters beat drums and condemned the inaction of President Javier Mileis administration, slamming what they described as the increasing influence of drug cartels in the country. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Arrests and search On Friday, National Security Minister Patricia Bullrich announced a fifth arrest in the case, bringing the total number of suspects to three men and two women. This newest suspect, a woman, was apprehended in the Bolivian border city of Villazon for allegedly providing a getaway vehicle. Meanwhile, authorities have released a photograph of the alleged 20-year-old Peruvian mastermind, who is still at large. Separately, Meta, Instagrams parent company, has disputed reports that the murders were livestreamed on its platform, according to an AFP report citing a company spokesperson. While addressing the UNGA on Saturday, the Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov accused Nato and the European Union of waging real war against Russia. In his address to the United Nations General Assembly, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov delivered one of the starkest warnings to the West yet. While addressing the international event on Saturday, the Russian foreign minister accused Nato and the European Union of waging real war against Russia. Lavrov opened his address with a historical reference to World War II, positioning Russia as the heir to the Soviet Union. He went on to accuse the US of dismantling postwar principles through interventions in Yugoslavia, Iraq and Libya, and warned that the same was happening today in the Middle East. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The Russian leader also slammed Israel for its campaign in Gaza, linking the conflict to what he portrayed as decades of unchecked Western use of force. Lavrov went on to accuse Nato of ignoring decades of security commitments. He maintained that Russia has never had and does not have plans to attack NATO countries, calling Western warnings of a Russian offensive provocations. #WATCH | At the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov says, "...We support the application of Brazil and India for permanent seats on the Council..." "The issue of Security Council reform is particularly important. pic.twitter.com/XOmTxJb5mZ ANI (@ANI) September 27, 2025 Lavrov denies Russian incursion During his UNGA speech, the veteran Russian diplomat singled out claims by European leaders as false portrayals of Moscows intentions. He echoed Russian President Vladimir Putins denials that Russia plans to strike Nato or attack any territory of the European Union. At the same time, he also issued a direct threat to the West. Any aggression against my country will be met with a decisive response. There should be no doubt about this among those in NATO and the EU. Lavrovs warning came amid tensions along NATOs eastern flank as Russian drones entered the Estonian, Polish and Romanian airspace. Meanwhile, the United States responded by telling the UNSC that it would defend every inch of NATO territory. The Russian diplomats speech also came amid a recent shift in the stance of US President Donald Trump. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Trump, who met Zelenskyy on the sidelines of the UNGA, hardened his tone against Russia over the war, telling reporters that Ukraine can and should reclaim all its territory. This marked a departure from Trumps previous stance when he said that Ukraine might have to sacrifice some of its territory to Russia to ensure a peaceful resolution of the conflict. In his own address at the UNGA, Zelenskyy warned that failing to stop Russia now would unleash the most destructive arms race ever. Lavrov reiterated his stance on the matter at a press conference held after his address. He dismissed Trumps earlier remark that Russia was a paper tiger, noting that the president had already walked it back. When asked about Western calls to shoot down Russian aircraft that might violate European airspace, Lavrov said: If there are attempts to down any flying object over our territory, in our airspace, then I think people will very much regret it, undertaking such an egregious violation of our territorial integrity and sovereignty. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD While addressing the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov slammed Israel, accusing the Jewish nation of blowing up the Middle East While addressing the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov slammed Israel, accusing the Jewish nation of blowing up the Middle East. While Lavrov condemned Hamass October 7 attack on Israel, he also raised concerns about the ongoing crisis in Gaza. Israels illegal use of force against the Palestinians and aggressive actions against Iran, Qatar, Yemen, Lebanon, Syria, and Iraq threatened to blow up the entire Middle East, the Russian foreign minister said at the international event. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD He emphasised that Hamass gruesome attack on does not provide justification for the collective punishment of Palestinians in the Gaza Strip, where Palestinian children are dying from bombing and starvation. Hospitals and schools are being destroyed, and hundreds of thousands of people are being left without shelter. Lavrov accuses Israel of burying the Palestinian State During his address, Lavrov also explained how Israel is trying to bury UN decisions on the creation of a Palestinian state. Lavrov noted that the fact that Western countries recognised Palestine several months after they announced their intentions to do so shows that they had hoped that by the time the general assembly session was convened, there would be nothing and no one left to recognise. The situation requires urgent action to prevent such a scenario, which was strongly advocated by the participants at the high-level international conference on Palestine, he warned. The Russian diplomat condemned both strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities and Qatar. Emphasising how the provocative measures were taken at a time when negotiations with Hamas were being held there with the participation of American mediators. He also aimed sanctions imposed by the United States on Iran and went on to blast Western efforts to restore or tighten restrictions as illegal and evidence of what he described as Washingtons strategy of blackmail and pressure. He insisted that the West had sabotaged diplomatic options to revive the 2015 nuclear deal and rejected what he called manipulations at the UNSC to isolate Tehran. Overall, Lavrovs address at the UNGA was an attack on the West as he held them responsible for several global crises. Tang Renjian, Chinas former Minister of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, was sentenced to death with reprieve for bribery at a court in Jilin province on Sunday. Chinas former minister of agriculture and rural affairs, Tang Renjian, was on Sunday sentenced to death with a two-year reprieve for taking bribes worth USD 38 million, a Chinese court announced. The Intermediate Peoples Court of Changchun in Jilin Province said Tang, who also served as secretary of the ministrys Communist Party leadership group, has been stripped of his political rights for life. All his personal assets will be confiscated, and the illegal gains recovered and transferred to the national treasury, the court ruling stated. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Tang previously served as governor of Gansu province from 2017 to 2020 before being appointed agriculture minister. His sentencing comes under President Xi Jinpings sweeping anti-corruption drive, launched in 2020 to tighten control over the countrys domestic security and judicial apparatus. Xi has repeatedly warned that corruption remains the greatest threat to the Communist Party. In January, he reiterated that graft continues to grow and must be stamped out to maintain the Partys authority. The court stated that between 2007 and 2024, Tang took undue advantage of his various positions at both central and local levels to assist others in matters such as business operation, project contracting and job adjustment. In exchange, he accepted money and valuables totaling over 268 million yuan (about USD 38 million), state-run Xinhua news agency reported. Tang pleaded guilty and expressed remorse in his final statement. The Changchun court ruled that Tangs offenses, which inflicted severe damage on the interests of the state and the people, warranted the death penalty. Yet considering his cooperation in confessing to his crimes, returning illicit gains, and other mitigating factors, the court granted Tang leniency in its final judgment. The case was heard at the court on July 25. During the trial, prosecutors, the defendant and his defence counsel cross-examined the evidence and gave their respective accounts, the Xinhua report said. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Over a million Chinese officials have been punished or disciplined in the massive anti-corruption campaign carried out by the ruling Communist Party of China, (CPC) after President Xi Jinping came to power in 2012. This includes dozens of top military officials. With inputs from agencies After an H-1B visa fee hike was announced, Indians urgently tried to book tickets to the US, but a far-right online group reportedly launched an effort to actively block their travel attempts A US flag, a passport and a US H-1B Visa application form are seen in this illustration. Reuters The Trump administration dropped a financial bomb on the H-1B visa programme, proposing a dizzying $100,000 fee hike. While that news was a huge blow, the real panic button was hit when industry heavyweights like Microsoft, JP Morgan, and Meta issued a sudden, non-negotiable mandate: Be back by September 21. This corporate directive, more than the governments announcement, sent a shockwave through the Indian community, the programmes primary user base. As Indians rushed to secure tickets and fly to the US as soon as possible, a far-right troll group was reportedly attempting to sabotage their efforts through a campaign called clog the toilet. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD What was the campaigns goal? Trolls from far-right groups, active on sites like 4chan, ran a planned operation to block flight seats. They openly boasted about reserving over 100 seats to wreck Jeets, a mean name used for people from South Asia. The trolls would search for popular flights, especially those between India and the US, and start the booking process but never pay. This trick temporarily took seats offline, stopping real travellers from booking and making the ticket prices go up. The group targeted high-traffic routes, particularly flights to cities such as New York, Newark, and Dallas. The scheme was coordinated on platforms like 4chan, Telegram, and similar forums, where numerous posts included racist language and guidelines on how to disrupt travel for Indian workers. Their primary aim was to keep Indians in India and incite fear and confusion. The idea was to lock seats without completing the purchase, making it harder for Indians to find available flights. I got 100 seats locked, one of the messages on the thread read. Users also claimed to be reserving seats on Air India flights to block availability, although the airline spokesperson informed AFP that their website worked normally and had no issues. Founded in 2003, 4chan has a reputation for internet memes, trolling campaigns and extremist content. In reaction to H1B announcements, some users suggested deliberately jamming flight reservations to prevent travel from India, with at least one user boasting of occupying the last seat on a DelhiNewark flight. Several additional messages included aggressive hate speech that advocated violence and demeaning language toward the targeted community. Indians working in the US were first panicked by the Trump administrations visa fee hike, but this fear was soon eased. Although tech companies had already ordered employees to return quickly, a White House official confirmed that the fee change was only for new visa petitions, not renewals. A voter holds her ballot at a polling station during Moldova's parliamentary elections in Chisinau, Moldova on September 28, 2025. Reuters Moldova, a small nation of 2.4 million people situated between Ukraine and Romania, faces one of its most consequential elections since independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. On Sunday, Moldovans cast their votes in a parliamentary election that could determine whether the country deepens its path toward European Union membership or pivots back toward Russias sphere of influence. The stakes are especially high given Moldovas recent EU candidate status and the heightened geopolitical tensions since Russias invasion of Ukraine in 2022. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD President Maia Sandu, leader of the pro-European Party of Action and Solidarity (PAS), has called the vote Moldovas most consequential election, warning that its outcome will decide whether the nation consolidates its democratic gains or risks being dragged back into a grey zone under Moscows influence, AFP reported. Foreign interference and disinformation A central feature of this election has been the alleged interference by Russia. Both the Moldovan government and the European Union accuse Moscow of waging an unprecedented campaign of disinformation, using online platforms and artificial intelligence to amplify false narratives. Prosecutors in Chisinau have conducted hundreds of searches and made dozens of arrests in connection with suspected electoral corruption and destabilisation attempts. Authorities have also banned two pro-Russian parties from running over financial irregularities, a decision sharply criticised by opposition groups. Moscow, for its part, denies meddling and accuses PAS of suppressing dissent. Former president Igor Dodon, a leading pro-Russian figure, has accused Sandus government of ruling under the EU cover while violating democratic norms and attempting to steal the vote, The New York Times reported. Domestic challenges: Economy and identity Beyond geopolitics, Moldovans are grappling with pressing domestic concerns. The country remains one of Europes poorest, with sluggish economic growth, high energy prices and widespread poverty. These conditions have fuelled public frustration and scepticism toward the EU integration project, despite its promise of long-term stability and prosperity. Many pro-Russian voters argue that closer ties with Moscow better protect Moldovas cultural and social traditions. We must preserve our identity, our freedom, and our family traditions, Tudor Soilita, a 33-year-old blogger at a pro-Russian rally told AFP. On the other hand, pro-European Moldovans emphasise the benefits of integration with the EU, including stronger democratic institutions, access to European markets and security guarantees. At a PAS rally, supporters chanted We want to be in Europe and carried slogans declaring, My country is not for sale. Role of diaspora and Transnistria Turnout is expected to be decisive, particularly among two key groups: Moldovas large diaspora and residents of the breakaway region of Transnistria. Moldovas diaspora, which numbers in the hundreds of thousands and is widely dispersed across Europe, tends to favour PAS and the EU integration path. Their votes could tip the balance in favour of Sandus party. Conversely, Transnistriaa pro-Russian separatist region supported by Moscowleans heavily toward pro-Russian candidates. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD This divide highlights the broader polarisation within Moldovan society: while one segment looks westward to Brussels, another remains anchored in historic and linguistic ties to Russia. Parties and political scenario Twenty-three political competitors are on the ballot, including 15 political parties, four coalitions and four independent candidates. PAS, which won 63 seats in 2021, hopes to secure another majority. If it falls short, the party could attempt to form a coalition with smaller pro-European groups, though analysts warn post-election negotiations could be turbulent. The main challenge to PAS comes from the pro-Russian Patriotic Electoral Bloc and figures like Dodon. These candidates advocate balancing ties between Brussels and Moscow, with Dodon pledging to continue discussions with the EU while also re-establishing relations with the Russian Federation. European and global stakes For the European Union, Moldovas election is more than a domestic contestit represents a critical test of the blocs capacity to expand and integrate new members at its eastern frontier. Marta Kos, EU commissioner for enlargement, framed the election as being about much more than Moldova. It is also about us. It is also about the European Union. Analysts argue that Russias interference reflects its fear of losing Moldova permanently to the West. Russia is so active in the election because its leaders understand that Moldova is about to be lost for them pretty much forever, said Sergiu Panainte of the German Marshall Fund. At the same time, US influence in the region has diminished. Cuts to foreign assistance and reduced oversight of Russian disinformation campaigns under the Trump administration weakened American engagement in Eastern Europe, leaving Moldova more vulnerable, The New York Times reported. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD An uncertain outcome Despite PASs lead in most polls, experts caution that the outcome remains highly uncertain. Igor Botan, director of the Moldovan think tank Adept, stressed that post-election negotiations to form an alliance are highly likely and that things are unclear even after results are announced. Should PAS lose its majority, Moldovas EU ambitions could stall, complicating reforms and leaving the country more exposed to Russian influence. Conversely, a PAS victory would strengthen Chisinaus case for eventual EU accession but may spark unrest among pro-Russian groups who already allege electoral fraud. As ballots are counted, Moldova stands at a historic crossroads. Whether it advances toward Europe or retreats into Moscows orbit will shape not only its future but also the broader balance of power on the EUs eastern frontier. Hamass armed wing urged the Israeli military to temporarily halt air strikes and withdraw from part of Gaza City on Sunday as it tried to locate two Israeli hostages it said it had lost contact with. Israeli security forces gather at the scene of a reported ramming attack at the Jit junction, west of Nablus in the occupied West Bank on September 28, 2025. - AFP Hamass armed wing on Sunday called on the Israeli military to suspend air strikes and pull back from parts of Gaza City, saying it had lost contact with two Israeli hostages. The lives of the two prisoners are in real danger, and (Israeli) forces must immediately withdraw to the south of Street 8 and halt aerial operations for 24 hours starting from 18:00 today to allow attempts to rescue the prisoners, the Ezzedine Al-Qassam Brigades said in a statement. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The group earlier blamed the loss of contact on Israeli military operations in two southern Gaza City neighbourhoods over the past 48 hours, where air and ground assaults have intensified. In the past, Hamas had also claimed to lose contact with an Israeli-American hostage, who was later freed. Israel has repeatedly urged Palestinians in Gaza City to move south as its offensive continues. Addressing the United Nations, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to finish the job against Hamas, despite mounting global criticism. Since launching its offensive on Gaza City, the Israeli military has repeatedly ordered Palestinians to move south. Speaking at the United Nations, Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to finish the job against Hamas, despite sharp international condemnation following the intensification of the offensive. The war in Gaza was sparked by Hamass October 7, 2023 attack on Israel that resulted in the deaths of 1,219 people on the Israeli side, mostly civilians, according to an AFP tally based on official figures. Of the 251 people abducted during the attack, 47 remain held in Gaza, including 25 whom the Israeli military says are dead. Israels retaliatory offensive in Gaza has killed at least 66,005 people, mostly civilians, according to figures from the Hamas-run territorys health ministry, which the UN deems reliable. The Colombian President was seen among the thousands of pro-Palestinian demonstrators protesting outside the United Nations building in New York. Colombian President Gustavo Petro addresses pro-Palestinian demonstrators at Dag Hammarskjold Plaza outside U.N. headquarters during the 80th United Nations General Assembly in New York City, U.S., September 26, 2025. REUTERS/ Colombian President Gustavo Petro on Saturday slammed the US for revoking his visa, claiming the action violated international law. The US took this measure in response to Petros actions on Friday, where he participated in a pro-Palestinian demonstration and specifically called for American soldiers to defy President Trump's orders concerning the war in Gaza. I no longer have a visa to travel to the United States. I dont care. I dont need a visa because Im not only a Colombian citizen but a European citizen, and I truly consider myself a free person in the world, Petro said on X. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Revoking it for denouncing genocide shows the US no longer respects international law, he added. While a United Nations investigation claimed Israels conduct in Gaza amounts to genocide, Israel firmly denies the accusation, stating its actions are solely in the interest of self-defence. More from World Recognising Palestine: American opposition, European hypocrisy Petro used his address to a pro-Palestinian protest in New York to suggest the creation of a global armed force dedicated to freeing Palestinians. The most controversial moment came when he directly advised US soldiers not to point their guns at people. Disobey the orders of Trump. Obey the orders of humanity. In a post on X, the State Department said it was revoking Petros visa over his reckless and incendiary actions. The Colombian Foreign Affairs Ministry stated that revoking a visa as a diplomatic punishment contradicts UN principles. They specifically claimed that such a move undermines the freedom of expression and the guarantee of independence given to member states while participating in UN functions. The UN should find a completely neutral host country that would allow the organisation itself to issue authorisation to enter the territory of that new host state, the ministry said. Petro joins club of presidents at odds with Washington Petro is not the first Colombian head of state to face a US visa cancellation; the US similarly withdrew the visa of President Ernesto Samper in 1996 amid a political financing scandal involving the Cali drug cartel. Currently, the bilateral relationship has grown increasingly contentious since Donald Trump regained office. Earlier this year, this tension manifested when Petro suspended deportation flights from the US, a move that initially triggered threats of economic retaliation from Washington before a compromise was struck. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The diplomatic rift deepened significantly in July, resulting in the mutual withdrawal of ambassadors after Petro levelled an unfounded accusation that US officials were involved in a coup plot. Separately, Petro has also taken a strong stand against Israel, breaking off diplomatic relations in 2024 and banning the export of coal from Colombia to that country. India slammed Terroristan Pakistan at the UNGA after Islamabad reacted to Jaishankars remarks on terrorism, with Indian diplomat Rentala Srinivas calling Pakistans response an admission of its longstanding practice of cross-border terrorism. At the UN General Assembly, India hit out at Terroristan Pakistan after it reacted to External Affairs Minister S Jaishankars remarks on terrorism. Indian diplomat Rentala Srinivas described Islamabads response as an admission of its longstanding practice of cross-border terrorism. Pakistans reputation speaks for itself. Its fingerprints are so visible in terrorism across so many geographies. It is a menace not only to its neighbors but to the entire world" Indian Diplomat Rentala Srinivas hits out at Pakistan at UNGA pic.twitter.com/BcpytnZsEa TRK News (@trk_media) September 28, 2025 STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD It is telling that a neighbour who was not named chose to nevertheless respond and admit their longstanding practice of cross-border terrorism, Srinivas said. Pakistans reputation speaks for itself. Its fingerprints are so visible in terrorism across so many geographies. It is a menace not only to its neighbours but to the entire world, he further blasted Islamabad for its continued use of terror for political motives. Delivering Indias Right of Reply, Srinivas further stated, No arguments or untruths can ever whitewash the crimes of Terroristan. A neighbour that is an epicentre of global terrorism: Jaishankar at UNGA During his UNGA address on Saturday, Jaishankar referred to a neighbour that is an epicentre of global terrorism, saying major international attacks could be traced back to that country. He underlined that India has faced terrorism since independence and urged the international community to choke terror financing and sanction those who glorify terrorists. Rattled Pakistan protests Terroristan remark Exercising its Right of Reply, Pakistan accused India of making malicious accusations and attempting to malign Pakistan. Reports said India walked out of the hall as Pakistan protested the use of the term Terroristan. Rashid, a secretary at Pakistans UN Mission, accused India of distorting the very name of a country, a member of the United Nations. Observers noted that Pakistans repeated replies, despite not being named directly, amounted to an admission that the remarks were directed at it. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov confirmed that President Vladimir Putin will be visiting India as he defends New Delhi in the Trump tariff saga While speaking to the press after his speech at the United Nations General Assembly, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov confirmed that President Vladimir Putin will be visiting India in December and Moscow is preparing for the trip. Speaking to the Indian media, Lavrov noted that the bilateral agenda during the trip covered trade, defence, technology and cooperation across global platforms. In December, a visit from Mr Putin is being planned to New Delhi. We have a very extensive bilateral agenda, trade, military, technical cooperation, finance, humanitarian matters, healthcare, high-tech, artificial intelligence, and of course, close coordination at the international level within the SCO, BRICS and bilaterally," said on Saturday in New York. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The Russian diplomat mentioned that External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar is expected to visit Moscow later this year, while he himself will travel to New Delhi as part of regular diplomatic exchanges between the two nations. India has self-respect: Lavrov When asked about the trade between India and Russia, Lavrov stressed that Russia does not interfere in Indias choices. Im not even asking what is going to happen to our trade relations, our oil. I dont ask our Indian colleagues this. They are perfectly capable of making these decisions for themselves," he said. He went on to laud Indias position in the whole situation of the Trump tariff saga, insisting that India has self-respect. The Russian foreign minister also pointed to Jaishankars remarks on Indias energy trade. And publicly, my friend, whom I referenced earlier when he was asked a similar question, said, if the US wants to sell their oil to us, we are prepared to discuss the terms for this," Lavrov said. It is pertinent to note that the United States has repeatedly criticised India for continuing to buy oil from Russia amid the ongoing war in Ukraine. Not only this, Trumps Trade Representative went ahead to accuse New Delhi of helping to fund Moscows war effort in Ukraine. Meanwhile, Ukraine has maintained that India is not aligned with Russia. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy told Fox News last week that New Delhi remains mostly" on Ukraines side and urged the US and Europe to engage with India. Meanwhile, Jaishankar eventually clarified Indias stance on the Trump tariff fiasco. What we buy from other countries, not the United States, but from Russia or other countries, thats our own business. And that has nothing to do with the India-US agenda." Lavrov called Jaishankars assertion a very worthy response and said that it showed that India, like Turkey, has self-respect. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD US Secretary of State Howard Lutnick said countries like India and Brazil need fixing and would have to play ball with the president if they want to continue to trade with the United States US Secretary of State Howard Lutnick made yet another provocative remark against India amid the ongoing trade talks between the two nations. While speaking to News Nation, Lutnick claimed that countries like India and Brazil need fixing, warning that if both nations wish to sell to American consumers, they must play ball with the President. Lutnick went on to state that the two nations need to do more to open their markets and take actions that do not harm the US interest. The remarks from Lutnick are coming at a time when US President Donald Trump imposed nearly 50 per cent tariffs on both Indian and Brazilian goods and a separate 100 per cent tariffs on pharma products. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The Trump administration has often complained about New Delhis continued purchase of Russian oil amid the war in Ukraine, with some of the Presidents top aides claiming that India is helping Russia in the war against Kyiv, an assertion rejected by both New Delhi and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. We have a bunch of countries to fix, like Switzerland, Brazil, India - these are countries that need to really react correctly to America. Open their markets, stop taking actions that harm America, and thats why were on opposite sides with them, Lutnick said in an interview with News Nation. The provocation doesnt stop as Trump tariffs hit Indias pharma sector India was already facing one of the steepest US tariffs, with levies reaching 50 per cent on certain goods. Earlier this week, Trump went on to impose a 100 per cent duty on branded and patented pharmaceutical products, putting Indian companies under major stress. It is pertinent to note that roughly 40 per cent of the revenue for Indian pharmaceutical companies comes from the US market. Hence, many believe that the pharma tariffs are likely to hit India the hardest. While speaking to News Nation, Lutnick took potshots at both India and Brazil. These countries (India and Brazil) have to understand that if you want to sell to the US consumers, youve got to play ball with the President of the United States, Lutnick said. The way that President Trump does deals, the first deal is always the best deal. And then the next deal is higher, the next deal is higher, the next deals higher, he added. The American trade secretary pointed out that while several trade negotiations remain unresolved, India and Brazil are among the big ones on the US agenda. You still have Taiwan. Thats a big one thats coming pretty soon. I expect to really be talking to them and sorting that out. So a bunch of countries left, but the big ones, India and Brazil, are littlebut well sort it out over time, he said. Lutnicks remarks came at a time when India and the US have resumed trade talks. A delegation led by Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal visited Washington from September 22 to 24, meeting US Trade Representative Ambassador Jamieson Greer and Ambassador-designate to India Sergio Gor to discuss a possible agreement. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The delegation had constructive meetings with the US Government on various aspects of the deal. Both sides exchanged views on possible contours of the deal, and it was decided to continue the engagement with a view to achieving an early conclusion of a mutually beneficial Trade Agreement, the Ministry of Commerce said in a statement after the delegation-level meeting. Moldovans vote on Sunday in parliamentary elections that could see the country neighbouring Ukraine swerve from its pro-European path towards Moscow, with the government and the EU accusing Russia of deeply interfering Youths are pictured next to the Triumph Arch as the flags of Moldova and EU are seen on the Government building in Chisinau September 26, 2025 ahead of parliamentary elections. AFP Moldovans vote on Sunday in parliamentary elections that could see the country neighbouring Ukraine swerve from its pro-European path towards Moscow, with the government and the EU accusing Russia of deeply interfering. Moldova, a non-EU country, has long been divided over closer ties with Brussels or maintaining Soviet-era relations with Moscow. Most polls show the pro-EU Party of Action and Solidarity (PAS), in power since 2021, in the lead in the vote. But analysts say the race is far from certain. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Moldova heads into its most consequential election, pro-EU President Maia Sandu of PAS posted on X on Friday. Its outcome will decide whether we consolidate our democracy and join the EU, or whether Russia drags us back into a grey zone, making us a regional risk, she added. The EU has said that Moldova is facing an unprecedented campaign of disinformation from Russia, while Prime Minister Dorin Recean warned of a siege on our country. Moscow has denied Chisinaus allegations that it is waging an online disinformation campaign and that it is looking to buy votes and stir unrest. And Moldovas largely pro-Russian opposition, in turn, has accused PAS of planning fraud. Interests of Moldovans Polling booths open at 7:00 am local time (0400 GMT) and close at 9:00 pm. Voters in the relatively poor country of 2.4 million have expressed frustration over economic hardship, as well as scepticism over the governments push to gain EU membership, launched after Moscows 2022 invasion of Ukraine. We must strive to serve the interests of Moldovans. We must preserve our identity, our freedom, and our family traditions, Tudor Soilita, a 33-year-old blogger, told AFP at a rally of the pro-Russian Patriotic Bloc in Chisinau this week. A loss for PAS which overwhelmingly won the last parliamentary elections, gaining a majority could throw up hurdles in the push towards EU integration. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD I hope PAS wins and we go to Europe, Olga, a pensioner who gave only her first name and who has been living abroad but came back to vote, told AFP at a PAS rally on Friday. At that march through the capital, people shouted We want to be in Europe and My country is not for sale. In the lead-up to the vote, prosecutors have carried out hundreds of searches related to what the government says is electoral corruption and destabilisation attempts, and have made dozens of arrests. On Friday, the electoral commission excluded two pro-Russian parties from the race over financing irregularities. The opposition has slammed the decisions. Biggest effort The government has accused the Kremlin of spending hundreds of millions of euros in dirty money to interfere in the campaign. Its the biggest effort, and these are the most important elections since the Republic of Moldova became independent in 1991, Prime Minister Recean told AFP at the PAS rally on Friday. Foreign interference and threats of stirring up unrest are the most significant risks, according to Igor Botan, the head of Moldovan think tank Adept. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD We didnt have such phenomena before in our electoral campaigns, he told AFP. All parties have called on their supporters to vote in the crucial election. Turnout will be decisive especially in the large and powerful diaspora, which tends to vote PAS, and in the breakaway region of Transnistria, which leans pro-Russian, analysts say. Some 20 political parties and independent candidates are running for the 101 parliamentary seats. Former president Igor Dodon of the Socialists, one of the leaders of the pro-Russian opposition, said he was convinced the opposition will have a majority. On foreign policy, he said he would continue discussions, negotiations with the EU, but we will also re-establish relations with the Russian Federation. Moldova is ruled at the moment by a dictatorial regime which under the EU cover violates democratic norms, he told AFP, in turn accusing the West of interference and PAS of trying to steal the vote. Analyst Botan said the result is very difficult to predict. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Post-election negotiations to form an alliance (to govern) are highly likely, and here too, things are unclear, he said. Security forces foiled an infiltration attempt along the Line of Control in J&Ks Kupwara on Sunday, killing two terrorist. A separate encounter is underway in Kishtwar as troops continue search operations to prevent escapes. Indian paramilitary soldiers stand guard as police and army soldiers launch an operation in Awantipora area, south of Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, on Wednesday, May 6, 2020. (Photo: Dar Yasin/AP) Security forces on Sunday (Sept 28) foiled an infiltration attempt along the Line of Control in the Keran sector of Kupwara, Jammu and Kashmir. Militants trying to cross from the Pakistan-occupied side were intercepted, sparking a fierce gunfight. Two terrorists were reportedly killed, though their bodies have not yet been recovered because of heavy firing and difficult terrain. The operation is still underway, with reinforcements sealing possible escape routes. The Keran sector, a sensitive zone with repeated infiltration attempts, has been under tight vigil as such bids usually rise before winter. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Separately, an encounter broke out in Keshwan forest, Kishtwar, after the Army launched an intelligence-based search operation around 1 pm. Contact was made with the terrorists, leading to an exchange of fire. The Army posted on X, Fire exchanged with terrorists. Operation is in progress. No casualties have been reported so far. Troops, backed by reinforcements, have cordoned off the area and continue combing operations to prevent any escape. Pakistans Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi on Saturday confirmed that a LPG tanker with 24 Pakistanis on board, which was attacked by an Israeli drone earlier this month, has finally been released from the captivity of Yemens Houthis Pakistans Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi on Saturday confirmed that a Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) tanker with 24 Pakistanis on board, which was attacked by an Israeli drone earlier this month, has finally been released from the captivity of Yemens Houthis. The vessel was carrying 27 people on board: 24 Pakistanis, 2 Sri Lankans and 1 Nepali. The LPG tanker was held hostage by Houthis after it was attacked by Israeli drones in Yemeni waters. The incident reflected the turbulent situation in the region. In a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, Naqvi confirmed that the vessel has now been released. Alhamdulillah, the tanker and its crew have now been released by the Houthis and are out of Yemeni waters," Naqvi wrote in the post. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD In the post, Naqvi noted that the vessel was attacked by Israeli drones on 17 September 2025 while it was at the Ras al-Esa port, which is under Houthi control. One LPG tank exploded, and the crew managed to extinguish the fire. The vessel was subsequently stopped by Houthi boats, and the crew were held hostage aboard the ship, the Pakistani minister added. Authorities working to ensure safety of nationals: Naqvi In the post, Naqvi mentioned the officials who worked with Yemeni authorities to ensure the safety of the passengers. I am profoundly grateful to Secretary Interior Khurram Agha and other MOI officers, Ambassador Naveed Bokhari and his team in Oman, our colleagues in Saudi Arabia, and especially the officials of our security agencies who worked day and night under extraordinary conditions to secure the safe release of our citizens when hope was fading," Naqvi wrote in the post. Earlier in the day, the Pakistani Foreign Office released a statement, expressing concerns over the incident and mentioning that Pakistani embassies established contacts with the authorities in Yemen to ensure the well-being of the crew, Geo News reported. In the statement, FO spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan said that efforts were made to set the tanker underway again. He mentioned that diplomatic missions also maintained contact with the family members of the Pakistani crew and kept them updated about the latest situation. Today, the LPG tanker has departed port and is making way out of the Yemeni waters. The entire crew, including Pakistani nationals on board, is safe and sound, he added. Pakistans hybrid military-civilian leadership showcased its rare earth mineral wealth to Trump last week in a bid to woo his support, according to a recent White House photo. PM Sharif and Munir presented a wooden box of minerals in the Oval Office. In a desperate attempt to regain favour with US President Donald Trump, Pakistans hybrid military-civilian leadership showcased its rare earth mineral wealth during a meeting with the President last week, according to a photo released by the White House. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Army Chief and self-declared Field Marshal Asim Munir presented the minerals to Trump at the White House. The photograph showed Munir handing over a wooden box containing the minerals while Trump observed in the Oval Office. Sharif, also present, was seen smiling alongside them. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The minerals on display at White House Among a dozen images from the meeting shared by the White House, one shows the duo displaying an open 18x18 inch wooden box filled with colourful stones. Two of the larger rocks appear to be bastanzite and monazite clumps, which typically contain rare earth elements such as cerium, lanthanum, and neodymium. Several smaller, candy-coloured pebbles resemble gemstones. Untapped wealth in Pakistan to win Trump Pakistan has long highlighted its untapped oil, gas, and mineral wealth, including rare earth elements, mostly in insurgency-hit Balochistan and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa. While none of the deposits are commercially proven, the countrys leadership showcased samples to Trump to underline collaboration and exploration deals signed with a private US firm earlier this month. The charm offensive included PM Sharif wearing a lapel pin featuring both the US and Pakistani flags, a gesture some Pakistani social media users called embarrassing. Oval Office discussions The photo emerged days after Trump hosted Sharif at the Oval Office on Thursday. The meeting, described by top Pakistan government sources as highly significant and security-focused, also included US Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and lasted about 90 minutes. Officials said discussions went beyond security, covering economic engagement, counterterrorism, and investment opportunities. The United States reportedly showed strong interest in Pakistans rare earth minerals, crypto mining potential, and oil exploration prospects. While no direct government-to-government agreement exists, Pakistans Frontier Works Organisation (FWO)a military-linked engineering and mining entitysigned an MoU on 8 September with Missouri-based US Strategic Metals (USSM), a private firm specialising in critical minerals, According to report from The Times of India. Man of peace: Sharifs desperate praise for Trump PM Sharif described Donald Trump as a man of peace" for his sincere efforts" to resolve conflicts worldwide, according to a statement from his office. Sharif expressed confidence that under Trumps leadership, the Pakistan-US partnership would be further strengthened to the mutual benefit of both countries," the statement said. He also invited US companies to invest in Pakistans agriculture, IT, mining, and energy sectors. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Trumps investment deal with Pakistan Earlier this month, US metals firm USSM signed a $500 million investment deal with Pakistan. The agreements cover the export of critical mineralsincluding antimony, copper, gold, tungsten, and rare earth elementsand envisage future processing facilities in Pakistan. In August, Islamabad showcased what Munir called its treasure" to the US and signed a trade agreement aimed at attracting American investment in Pakistans mineral and oil resources. The shooting took place around 9:30 pm on Saturday (local time) at the American Fish Company, located roughly 32 kilometres south of Wilmington. Authorities are actively searching for the suspect. A shooting in Southport, North Carolina, resulted in three deaths and eight injuries on Saturday after an unidentified individual opened fire from a boat targeting a crowded restaurant on the dock, authorities confirmed. The shooting occurred around 9:30 pm (local time) on Saturday at the American Fish Company, a popular pub and restaurant located at 150 Yacht Basin Drive in the Southport Yacht Basin area, about 32 kilometres south of Wilmington. Police said that at least seven people were shot in the attack, with three of them confirmed dead at the scene, as reported by the Indo-Asian News Service. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD City Manager Noah Saldo confirmed that the shooting occurred when a boat approached the dock and fired into the crowd, then escaped. Officials have not provided updates on the eight people injured and hospitalised. Several people were taken to the hospital, he said, noting that the exact count may change as emergency services carry on with their efforts. The city administration issued a safety directive urging residents to avoid the area, remain inside their homes, and immediately contact 911 if they noticed any suspicious activity. Avoid the area and remain in your homes. Please report any suspicious activity immediately to 911, the statement read. The Brunswick County Sheriffs Office confirmed they were helping the Southport Police Department manage the ongoing situation. The Brunswick County Sheriffs Office is assisting the City of Southport Police Department, along with multiple law enforcement agencies throughout the county. Please keep all those affected, as well as our first responders, in your thoughts and prayers, the sheriffs office stated. Authorities are continuing to investigate the situation near the American Fish Company, with the suspect still at large. Poland scrambled fighter jets and shut part of its airspace on Sunday after Russia launched a massive overnight assault on Ukraine, firing hundreds of drones and missiles that left at least four people dead and hit Kyiv the hardest. This handout video grab recorded on September 13, 2025, and released on September 14, 2025, by the French Army (Etat Major des Armees), shows a French Air Force Dassault Rafale B fighter jet configured for air-to-air weaponry deployed at an unspecified location in the Polish airspace during an exercise as part of "Eastern Sentry" NATO operation. AFP Poland scrambled fighter jets and closed its airspace over the southeastern cities of Lublin and Rzeszow until at least 0400 GMT on Sunday (Sept 28), citing unplanned military activity related to ensuring state security." Flight tracking service Flightradar24 also confirmed the airspace developments. The move came after Russia launched a massive overnight assault on Ukraine. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Moscow fired around 500 drones and 40 missiles on Saturday night, killing at least four people, with Kyiv suffering the heaviest strikes. Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko described the barrage as a massive attack, noting that debris from a drone partially destroyed a five-storey building. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The Polish military said it scrambled jets in response to the strikes. In connection with the activity of the Russian Federations long-range aviation carrying out strikes on the territory of Ukraine, Polish and allied aircraft have begun operating in our airspace, it said on X, calling the measures preventive to secure airspace and protect citizens. Polands armed forces also confirmed NATO aircraft joined the response over fears of a possible incursion. Denmark, meanwhile, said drones had recently flown over its airports. This is not the first time Russian activity has raised alarm across NATOs eastern flank. On September 9, Poland confirmed it shot down Russian drones that crossed its airspace during strikes on Ukraine the first such incursion into a NATO country since the war began in 2022. Romania reported a similar breach on September 14, while Estonia requested urgent NATO consultations after three Russian warplanes entered its airspace without permission and remained for 12 minutes. Zelensky has accused Moscow of deliberately targeting NATO countries. On September 20, Britain said its fighter jets carried out a NATO air defence mission over Poland in response to drone incursions. Moscow has downplayed the incidents, insisting it has no plans to target facilities in Poland. The string of violations has highlighted the split between European leaders urgent calls for stronger action against Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trumps more muted response. Poland and Romania have both invoked NATOs Article 4 a mechanism for urgent consultations among allies that had been triggered only seven times in the alliances 76-year history before this month. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates and Oman all nations in the thick of the unrest that has pervaded the West Asia confronted the crisis in the region at the annual UN gathering of world leaders, with Egypts top diplomat warning that the Mideast is at a point of implosion. At the annual United Nations General Assembly, four key West Asian nations namely Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates and Oman delivered some of the sharpest rebukes yet of Israels Gaza offensive, warning that unchecked violence could push the region to the brink of collapse. Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty set the tone, declaring the West Asia at a point of implosion as he condemned what he called Israels wanton, unjust war waged against defenceless civilians. Egypt, long a mediator in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, accused Israel of committing genocide in Gaza and blocking Palestinian aspirations for statehood. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Abdelatty argued that Israels security cannot come at the expense of its neighbours, saying, the region cannot see stability without an independent state of Palestine. He also highlighted instability in Sudan, Libya, Yemen, Lebanon and Syria as evidence of a wider regional unravelling. Saudi Arabias Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan echoed the alarm, stressing that Gazas humanitarian catastrophe makes a ceasefire and renewed commitment to a two-state solution imperative. He warned that the international communitys failure to restrain Israel would have grave consequences not just for the West Asia but for global security. Riyadh has sought to play a larger diplomatic role, co-launching a coalition with Norway and the European Union to promote Palestinian statehood. Farhan pointed to a recent high-level meeting, co-sponsored by Saudi Arabia and France, where at least 10 more countries recognised Palestine, raising the tally close to 160. He insisted that recognition was not symbolic but an important step towards achieving the two-state solution and bolstering the path towards a just and lasting peace. From Muscat, Omani Foreign Minister Badr bin Hamad al-Busaidi took the argument further, calling for sanctions on Israel over its repeated violations of international law and its policies of starvation and blockade in Gaza. He demanded effective pressure from the global community to compel Israel to negotiate and halt its unlawful encroachment in the region. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Al-Busaidi also condemned Israeli strikes on Iran, Yemen, Syria and Lebanon, casting them as evidence of destabilising expansionism. The UAEs Deputy Foreign Minister Lana Nusseibeh adopted a more measured but equally critical tone. While condemning Hamas for hostage-taking, she said Israels indiscriminate attacks on civilians, forced displacement and expansionist ambitions in the West Bank were indefensible. She urged all states to recognise Palestine as an investment in a better future for the region, positioning the UAEs diplomacy as one focused on conflict resolution rather than crisis management. Nusseibeh pointed to her countrys role in brokering prisoner exchanges between Russia and Ukraine, mediating in Armenia-Azerbaijan disputes, and easing tensions in South Asia as examples of what she called sustainable solutions. She also underscored that the UAE has become Gazas largest aid donor. Together, the interventions highlighted the depth of regional unease with Israels military strategy and underscored a widening sense of frustration with what these states perceive as international paralysis. Their statements came just a day after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told the same assembly that Israel must finish the job against Hamas, despite mounting protests and growing diplomatic isolation. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD For Saudi Arabia, Egypt, the UAE and Oman, the message was unambiguous: continued war in Gaza risks not only devastating Palestinian lives but also dragging the entire West Asia into deeper turmoil. Their calls for recognition of Palestinian statehood, sanctions against Israel, and stronger international action point to an intensifying regional consensus that without decisive steps toward peace, West Asias crises could converge into what Cairo starkly called an implosion. Several people were shot at a Mormon church in Michigan on Sunday, with police confirming the shooter is down. The attack, which also left the church on fire, came just hours after a separate mass shooting in North Carolina that killed three people and injured five. UK: Sikh woman raped in racially aggravated attack, told to go back to your country Several people were shot at a Mormon church in Michigan on Sunday, and the shooter is down, police said. The incident took place at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc, about 50 miles north of Detroit, according to local police. The church was also on fire, the Associated Press reported. Police said there is no ongoing threat to the public. Details on casualties have not yet been released. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Shooting at North Carolina, 3 killed The Michigan attack came just hours after another shooting in Southport, North Carolina, where three people were killed and five injured. Police called that incident a highly premeditated attack. Southport police chief Todd Coring said a man named Nigel Edge from Oak Island was arrested for firing from a boat into a crowd at American Fish Company on Saturday night. The shooting began around 9:30 pm along a busy strip of bars and restaurants in the historic port town. Investigators said Edge pulled his boat close to shore, stopped briefly, opened fire, and sped away. South Korea said it cannot provide the $350 billion investment upfront in the United States as President Donald Trump suggested and is seeking alternative arrangements, warning that such a payment could threaten the countrys economy. US President Donald Trump meets with South Korean President Lee Jae-myung at the Oval Office, at the White House, in Washington, DC, US, August 25, 2025. File Image/Reuters South Korea said it cannot provide the $350 billion investment upfront in the United States as President Donald Trump suggested and is seeking alternative solutions, a presidential adviser said on Saturday. Following a July handshake deal to lower US tariffs to 15 per cent from 25 per cent, South Korea had pledged $350 billion toward US projects, but the investment was planned in the form of loans, loan guarantees, and equity. Trump this week said South Korea would provide the amount upfront, despite Seoul warning that such a payment could push Asias fourth-largest economy into a financial crisis. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The position were talking about is not a negotiating tactic, but rather, it is objectively and realistically not a level we are able to handle, South Koreas National Security Adviser Wi Sung-lac told Channel A News. We are not able to pay $350 billion in cash. South Korea has also resisted US demands for control over the funds, and officials say talks to formalise the trade deal are at a deadlock. On Thursday, Trump highlighted the sums brought in by his tariffs, saying: We have in Japan its $550 billion, South Koreas $350 billion. Thats upfront. President Lee Jae Myung told Reuters last week that without safeguards such as a currency swap, making such a massive outlay could trigger a crisis, given South Koreas $410 billion in foreign exchange reserves. Wi said the government is exploring alternatives and hopes to finalise the trade deal at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in South Korea next month, which Trump is expected to attend. Regardless of political perspective, no one could argue that the presidency of Donald Trump and his second term so far in particular has been anything less than consequential, not only for the United States but for the world. President Donald Trumps second term has been consequential not only for the United States but for the international order, drawing varied reactions from world leaders at the United Nations General Assembly this week. From praise to criticism, global leaders weighed in on Trumps policies, actions and approach to diplomacy, illustrating the polarising impact of his presidency. French President Emmanuel Macron offered a lighter anecdote reflecting Trumps logistical presence: after encountering a road closure due to the US presidents motorcade, Macron joked about waiting in the street and requested a discussion on the Gaza situation. The exchange highlighted both Trumps influence and the informal dynamics he brings to high-level diplomacy. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Chinese Premier Li Qiang, in contrast, highlighted the economic consequences of unilateral measures, noting that global economic stagnation is partly driven by tariff hikes and erection of walls and barriers, implicitly referencing Trumps protectionist policies. He called for collaboration to promote inclusive economic globalization, a direct critique of Trump-era economic unilateralism. Supporters of Trump, meanwhile, praised his domestic and international measures. Argentinas President Javier Milei applauded Trumps stance on illegal immigration and his restructuring of trade and institutional practices, describing them as decisive and transformative. Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan and Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister Sokhonn Prak credited Trump with pivotal roles in mediating peace processes, highlighting his ability to broker ceasefires and facilitate dialogue. Similarly, leaders from Congo, Haiti, and Saint Kitts and Nevis commended Trumps engagement on peacekeeping and regional security. Yet criticism was equally pointed. Bolivian President Luis Arce accused Trump of pursuing hegemonic power at the expense of global stability, while Colombian President Gustavo Petro condemned U.S. anti-drug operations and missile strikes, directly implicating Trump. Slovenias President Natasa Pirc Musar and Belarusian Foreign Minister Maxim Ryzhenkov voiced concerns over the U.S. withdrawal from international agreements and reduced support for U.N. institutions, framing Trumps actions as detrimental to multilateralism. Responses also reflected nuanced stances. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov described Trumps administration as seeking pragmatic cooperation over ideological rigidity, while Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasised collaborative potential in meetings with Trump. Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar highlighted climate action concerns, implicitly critiquing U.S. environmental policies under Trump. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised Trumps handling of antisemitism, while Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas expressed willingness to cooperate with Trump on conflict resolution. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Across the globe, leaders reactions to Trump revealed both the reach and the controversy of his presidency. While some hailed him as a decisive problem-solver and peace broker, others portrayed his actions as aggressive, unilateral, and disruptive to international norms. The U.N. General Assembly thus offered a microcosm of how Trumps policies are perceived: a mixture of respect, scepticism, and outright opposition, illustrating the enduring and polarising influence of the United States under his leadership. Whether lauded for diplomacy or criticised for unilateralism, Trumps approach continues to shape global discourse, leaving an indelible mark on international relations that transcends domestic politics. Trump has said there is a real chance for greatness in the Middle East, as reports point to a 21-point plan aimed at ending the Gaza war and shaping the regions future. The proposal, which includes a ceasefire, hostage releases and a roadmap for Gaza, is expected to be discussed with Netanyahu at the White House on Monday. US President Donald Trump (R) meets with Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, DC. AFP US President Donald Trump on Sunday said there is a real chance for greatness in the Middle East, without providing further details, days after claiming he was close to a deal to end the war in Gaza. Reports suggest a 21-point plan for Gazas future is under discussion. We have a real chance for Greatness in the Middle East. All are on board for something special, first time ever. We will get it done," Trump wrote on Truth Social, offering no specifics. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Earlier, he had said a breakthrough on Gaza was imminent, claiming negotiators were close to finalising an agreement to secure hostages release and end the war. The US President is scheduled to meet Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday at the White House to discuss a framework for a deal, according to officials. Trumps 21-point peace plan Trump has proposed a 21-point plan for Gaza and the wider Middle East. Reports suggest the plan calls for an immediate halt to all military operations in Gaza as the first step towards ending the war. The Washington Post, citing officials from two governments, said that if both sides agree, current battle lines would be frozen, and 20 living hostages, along with the remains of more than two dozen others, could be released within 48 hours. Al-Arabiya reported that the plan will be presented to Netanyahu during his White House visit. Humanitarian impact of the conflict The conflict, now nearly two years old, has pushed Israeli forces deep into Gaza City, which Israel describes as the last stronghold of Hamas. Gazas Hamas-run health ministry reports that 65,502 people have been killed since 7 October 2023. Israels offensive has caused widespread destruction, displacing around 90% of Gazas population and triggering a severe humanitarian crisis. Key elements of the US proposal The Trump-led US administrations plan calls for all hostages held by Hamas to be released within 48 hours of an agreement, CNN reported. It also sets out a roadmap for Gaza after the war. Reports indicate that the US shared the plan with a handful of Arab and Muslim countries on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York last week. The proposal includes recognition of a Palestinian state, the release of hostages, and the withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza. Hamas, however, would not have any role in Gazas future government, according to reports. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD President Donald Trump plans to meet with the top four congressional leaders at the White House on Monday, one day before the deadline to fund the federal government or face a shutdown. President Donald Trump plans to meet with the top four congressional leaders at the White House on Monday, one day before the deadline to fund the federal government or face a shutdown. The meeting involving House Speaker Mike Johnson and Senate Majority Leader John Thune as well as House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer was confirmed Saturday by a White House official and another person familiar with the planning. Both were granted anonymity to discuss a meeting that has not been announced. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The meeting was first reported by Punchbowl News. The parties have been in a standoff for days as Democrats, namely in the Senate, have refused to offer the necessary votes to pass a funding measure that would keep the government open beyond Tuesday. Absent any action, a shutdown would begin at 12:01 a.m. ET on Wednesday. Democrats, believing they have leverage, have insisted on key health care provisions in exchange for their votes. They want an extension of subsidies that help low- and middle-income earners purchase insurance through the Affordable Care Act. Democrats are also insisting on reversing cuts to Medicaid that were included the GOPs signature tax measure earlier this year. Republicans say those demands are nonstarters and that they are willing to have a conversation with Democrats on those issues separate from government funding talks. The GOP is asking for a straight extension of current funding for seven weeks. Earlier in the week, Johnson acknowledged he encouraged Trump not to meet with the Democratic leaders this past week after the White House had already scheduled a meeting for last Thursday. Trump abruptly pulled out. He and I talked about it at length yesterday and the day before. I said, look, when they get their job done, once they do the basic governing work of keeping the government open, as president, then you can have a meeting with him, Johnson, R-La., said on the Mike & McCarty Show. Of course, it might be productive at that point, but right now, this is just a waste of his time. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Thune, R-S.D., said he did have a conversation with the president and offered his opinion on the meeting, which he declined to disclose. But I think the president speaks for himself, and I think he came to the conclusion that that meeting would not be productive, Thune said. The United States is considering Ukraines request to obtain long range Tomahawk missiles for its effort to push back against Russian invaders, Vice President JD Vance said on Sunday. The United States is reviewing Ukraines request for long-range Tomahawk missiles to aid its fight against Russian forces, Vice President JD Vance said on Sunday. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has asked the US to approve the sale of Tomahawks to European countries, which would then transfer the weapons to Ukraine. Speaking on Fox News Sunday, Vance said President Donald Trump would make the final determination on whether to authorise the arrangement. Were certainly looking at a number of requests from the Europeans, Vance said. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Tomahawk missiles have a range of 2,500 km (1,550 miles), and would be a powerful asset in Ukraines arsenal as it fights back against regular barrages of Russian missile and drone attacks. Such a weapons delivery would almost certainly be seen by Russia as an escalation in its war in Ukraine. Trump has denied Ukraines requests for use of long-range missiles in the past but has grown frustrated at Russian President Vladimir Putins refusal to reach a peace deal. Vance also said Russias invasion of Ukraine has stalled with little in the way of territorial gains recently. Weve been actively pursuing peace from the very beginning of the administration, but the Russians have got to wake up and accept reality here. A lot of people are dying. They dont have a lot to show for it, he said. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy this week asked U.S. President Donald Trump for Tomahawk missiles to force Russian President Vladimir Putin to make peace, Axios reported on Friday. The request came during Zelenskyy and Trumps meeting alongside the United Nations General Assembly, according to the report, which cited a Ukrainian official and another source familiar with the two leaders meeting. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Zelenskyy told Axios in a separate interview taped Wednesday that he had requested long-range weapons. With inputs from agencies Russia unleashed a barrage of drones and missiles on Ukraine overnight into Sunday, killing at least four people, with Kyiv suffering the heaviest assault. In this handout photograph taken and released by the Ukrainian Emergency Service on September 28, 2025, Ukrainian law enforcement officers work at the site of an air attack at an undisclosed location in the Kyiv region, amid the Russian invasion of Ukraine.- AFP Kyiv experienced one of its heaviest attacks since Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine began, with at least four people killed in what President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called a vile and brutal assault. Ukraines president said Russia launched around 500 drones and more than 40 missiles in a bombardment lasting over 12 hours from Saturday night into Sunday morning. The strikes targeted the capital as well as the Zaporizhzhia, Khmelnytskyi, Sumy, Mykolaiv, Chernihiv and Odesa regions. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Zelenskyy described the attack as the virtual culmination of last weeks UN General Assembly, where US President Donald Trump expressed support for Ukraine, urged allies to halt Russian oil imports and promised Ukraine would strike back. This is how Russia is making its real position known. Moscow wants to continue to fight and kill and deserves only the harshest pressure in the world, Zelenskyy said on Telegram. He added that the Kremlin benefits from continuing this war and terror as long as there are energy funds and a shadow navy. Neighbouring Poland scrambled jets to secure its airspace in the wake of the barrage, after NATO accused Moscow of being behind a series of violations of the defence alliances airspace. Diplomatic efforts to stop the war have faltered, while Russia has vowed to press on with its offensive in the three-and-a-half-year-long conflict. Moscow wants to continue fighting and killing and deserves only the harshest pressure from the world, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said following the strikes, which lasted for 12 hours. The Kremlin benefits from continuing this war and terror as long as there are profits from energy sales, he added, urging stronger measures against Russia from Kyivs allies. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Meanwhile, the Kremlin on Sunday dismissed threats by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy that Kremlin officials should know where the bomb shelters were, saying that Ukraine was losing the war and that its negotiating position was worsening. Zelenskyy suggested to Axios that the centres of Russian power, like the Kremlin, were potential targets, saying that Kremlin officials have to know where the bomb shelters are. Zelenskyy is trying to demonstrate to the Europeans, who now act as the breadwinners, that he is such a brave soldier, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told state television. Meanwhile, the state of affairs at the front indicates the opposite. With every passing day, the situation for Ukraine is inexorably deteriorating. And every day Ukraines negotiating positions are inexorably deteriorating. Russia controls 114,918 square km (44,370 square miles), or about 19% of Ukraine, and has taken 4,729 square km of Ukrainian territory in the past year, according to the pro-Ukrainian DeepState map project. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD When asked directly by state televisions Kremlin correspondent Pavel Zarubin how the Kremlin would perceive an attack on the centre of Russian power, Peskov said that its better not to even talk about it. In May 2023, Russia accused Ukraine of trying to attack the Kremlin with drones. President Vladimir Putin was not in the Kremlin at the time of the attack. With inputs from agencies Will there be a shutdown? Yes, Trump says, because the Democrats are crazed. Why is the White House pursuing mass firings, not just furloughs, of federal workers? Trump responds, Well, this is all caused by the Democrats. As the United States approaches a potential government shutdown, President Donald Trump has taken a singularly combative stance, publicly blaming Democrats for the impasse and showing little indication of compromise. With federal funding set to expire on September 30, Trumps rhetoric has emphasised fault-finding over negotiation, portraying the opposition as the architects of a looming crisis. In recent days, Trump has consistently argued that any shutdown would be the Democrats doing. Asked whether a shutdown was imminent, he responded unequivocally: Yes, because the Democrats are crazed. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD On the topic of mass federal layoffs versus furloughs, the president insisted, Well, this is all caused by the Democrats. Even when questioned about the broader impacts, he retorted, The radical left Democrats want to shut it down. This positioning aligns closely with the leadership of the Republican-controlled House and Senate. Speaker Mike Johnson and Senate Majority Leader John Thune have resisted Democratic calls to attach healthcare provisions, such as extended Affordable Care Act subsidies and Medicaid restorations, to a short-term funding bill. Republicans argue that these demands are expensive and complex, complicating negotiations as the shutdown deadline nears. The White House had tentatively scheduled a high-stakes meeting with Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries. However, Trump abruptly scrapped the session, accusing Democrats of making unserious and ridiculous demands. The move drew sharp criticism from Democrats, with Schumer describing Trump and Republicans as holding America hostage. Yet, the president later agreed to a meeting, signalling the fluidity and high-stakes nature of the negotiations. While Trump publicly deflects responsibility, the administrations plans for a shutdown suggest a strategic dimension. According to reports, agencies would consider reductions in force for programs deemed inconsistent with presidential priorities, effectively turning a temporary closure into a structural reshaping of the federal workforce. This approach underscores Trumps broader vision of a leaner government aligned with his policy agenda. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Analysts note that the political calculus is a reversal of past precedents. Historically, Republicans have wielded the threat of a shutdown to extract concessions. In 2013, GOP demands to defund the Affordable Care Act triggered a 16-day shutdown, for which the party received widespread blame. By contrast, Trump is now leveraging the situation to place the burden squarely on Democrats, portraying them as obstructionists while maintaining the option to negotiate selectively on issues like ACA subsidies. With Congress deeply divided and a partial shutdown potentially affecting hundreds of thousands of federal workers, the coming days will test both sides willingness to compromise. For Trump, the shutdown is more than a budgetary battle, it is a high-stakes political manoeuvre intended to consolidate power, shape the federal workforce, and shift public perception ahead of critical legislative and electoral contests. As the funding deadline approaches, all eyes remain on the White House and Capitol Hill, where the interplay of rhetoric, strategy and negotiation will determine whether the government continues to operate or enters a period of disruption with far-reaching consequences. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy warned that his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, will expand the ongoing war in Ukraine by attacking another European nation Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy warned that his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, will expand the ongoing war in Ukraine by attacking another European nation. While speaking in Kyiv, following the meeting with US President Donald Trump, Zelenskyy maintained that Russias latest incursion into the airspaces of European nations was its way of testing Nato's defences. The Ukrainian leader warned that Russia is preparing for a bigger conflict. Putin will not wait to finish his war in Ukraine. He will open up some other direction. Nobody knows where. He wants that, the Ukrainian leader averred. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Zelenskyy maintained that the Kremlin was delibrately checking Europes capacity to protect its skies, after drone sightings in Denmark, Poland and Romania and the violation of Estonian airspace by Russian fighter jets. On Friday night and Saturday, more drones were spotted above the Danish military and on a Norwegian base, respectively. Zelenskyys warning to the EU The Ukrainian president noted that the EU governments were struggling to deal with this new and dangerous threat. Earlier this month, Ukraine claimed that it had spotted 92 drones flying towards Poland in a choreographed way. While the war-torn nation intercepted most of them, 19 crossed into the Polish airspace, and Poles were ultimately able to shoot down four of them. I am not comparing our forces. We are at war and they [Poland] are not, he said. Zelenskyy maintained that representatives from several unnamed countries would travel to Ukraine to receive practical training in how to repel Russian aerial attacks. We are ready to share our experience, he added. The latest warning from the Ukrainian leader came after he met with US President Donald Trump on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) meeting. After the meeting, the US president revealed that he believed Ukraine could win back all the territory it has lost since 2022, with the support of Europe and Nato. Trump also noted that Russias economy was in big trouble and described its military as a paper tiger. When asked about Trumps change in stance, the Ukrainian leader said that he had briefed Trump about the realities on the battlefield. Zelenskyy reportedly told Trump that Russias advances were often fleeting: Its not success. Its a temporary presence. The US president now has greater faith in Ukraine and has discovered that Russia treated him and everyone else with disrespect, Zelenskyy said. Ultimately, the Ukrainian leader made it clear that if the Kremlin tried to destroy the war-torn nations energy infrastructure again this winter, its own capital would experience retaliatory blackouts. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Welcome to my genealogy blog. Genea-Musings features genealogy research tips and techniques, genealogy news items and commentary, genealogy humor, San Diego genealogy society news, family history research and some family history stories from the keyboard of Randy Seaver (of Chula Vista CA), who thinks that Genealogy Research Is really FUN! Copyright (c) Randall J. Seaver, 2006-2024. Farmers harvest rice in a field in Chainat province, Thailand, Aug. 31, 2023. Photo by Reuters Thailands rice exports fell 30% year-on-year to US$3.94 billion in August, marking its 10th straight month of decline. Export volume dropped 16.9% to 739,497 tonnes that same month, according to the Ministry of Commerce's Trade Policy and Strategy Office. Declines were seen in markets such as the U.S., South Africa, Senegal, Iraq and Mozambique. However, shipments to Cameroon, China, Malaysia, Hong Kong and Canada went up. Over the first eight months, rice exports totaled over 5 million tonnes, down 24.1% from a year ago. Domestic rice prices have also decreased. According to the Thai Rice Millers Association, the price of white rice as of Wednesday was THB6,500-6,700 (US$201-208) per tonne, down THB200 from a week earlier. Meanwhile, the price of jasmine rice remains unchanged at THB15,500-16,000 per tonne. Israel/Palestine: Statement by the High Representative on behalf of the European Union on the closure of the Allenby/King Hussein Bridge crossing European Council / Council of the European Union Council of the EU Statements and remarks 27 September 2025 19:14 The Israeli authorities' decision of 23 September to close the Allenby/King Hussein Bridge crossing for passenger access in both directions and for cargo traffic impacts freedom of movement between the West Bank and Jordan as well as the humanitarian response in Gaza. We have taken note of the announcement by the Director General of Crossings and Borders on the reopening of the crossing for persons as of 26 September and urge Israel to also allow cargo to cross. The Allenby/King Hussein Bridge crossing, as with other border crossings, should remain open for an effective humanitarian response. About one quarter of humanitarian relief items entering Gaza through the UN 2720 mechanism comes via Jordan. This decision comes as Israel's ground offensive in Gaza City is seriously aggravating an already catastrophic and unsustainable humanitarian situation, resulting in appalling levels of civilian casualties and suffering. Medical facilities should never be targeted. The European Union (EU) calls on Israel to take immediate and effective measures to increase the provision of urgently needed humanitarian assistance to Gaza. The EU condemns the 18 September attack at the crossing. Israel has a right to defend itself, but it must be exercised in accordance with international law. Full respect for international law, including international humanitarian law, is an obligation that must be adhered to. The EU calls for restraint and reiterates its call for an immediate ceasefire and the unconditional release of all hostages. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address NZ to maintain approach to recognition of Palestine Beehive.govt.nz - The official website of the New Zealand Government 27 September 2025 Rt Hon Winston Peters Foreign Affairs New Zealand will not be recognising the State of Palestine at this time, Foreign Minister Winston Peters announced at the UN General Assembly in New York today. "With a war raging, Hamas remaining the de facto government of Gaza, and no clarity on next steps, too many questions remain about the future State of Palestine for it to be prudent for New Zealand to announce recognition at this time," Mr Peters says. "We are also concerned that a focus on recognition, in the current circumstances, could complicate efforts to secure a ceasefire by pushing Israel and Hamas into even more intransigent positions." New Zealand continues to call out all actions being taken by both Israel and Hamas which prolong the conflict, prevent a political solution, and seek to extinguish the viability of a Palestinian state, Mr Peters says. "New Zealand has long been a staunch advocate of the two-state solution and a defender of Palestinians' right to self-determination," Mr Peters says. "What is needed now more than ever is dialogue, diplomacy and leadership - not further conflict and extremism. "New Zealanders are shocked by the harrowing images of famine in Gaza, revolted by the grossly disproportionate military action from the Israeli Government and disturbed by Israeli rhetoric and actions aimed at dismantling future prospects for a Palestinian state. "New Zealanders also abhor Hamas' completely heinous refusal to release the hostages it is holding, its abject disregard for both Palestinian and Israeli life and its stated determination to destroy Israel. Our concern is not with the Palestinian Authority, which faces very difficult circumstances. We will continue to do our part to strengthen its capability." New Zealand's position remains that it is a matter of when, not if we recognise the State of Palestine. "Like every other New Zealand Government over the past 80 years, we hold the position that we will recognise a Palestinian state when the time is right. "What we are looking for now are real actions towards the full viability and legitimacy of the State of Palestine, rather than rhetoric in that direction; Israel to stop and reverse all actions aimed at destroying the two-state solution, including illegal settlements in the West Bank, and to return to meaningful negotiations with the Palestinians; the release by Hamas of all the hostages it holds; the disbanding and disarmament of Hamas; and the renouncement of violence by all Palestinian leaders who have yet to do so." Recognition of Palestine is a complex issue on which reasonable people can disagree, Mr Peters says. "Some of our close partners have chosen to recognise Palestine, and others have not. We do not question the good intentions of those who have chosen to recognise Palestine at this time. Indeed, we have a shared objective of trying to help bring about a two-state solution. Where we differ with some of our partners is on the issue of whether recognition now by New Zealand will make a tangible, positive contribution to the realisation of a two-state solution." New Zealand remains committed to doing its part to alleviate the immense suffering in Gaza, Mr Peters says. "The international community must retain its focus on the very urgent and practical challenge of getting as much humanitarian assistance as possible into Gaza. For that reason, we are providing $10 million more to international humanitarian partners to deliver emergency supplies into Gaza. "New Zealand repeats our call for an immediate ceasefire; unfettered access for humanitarian supplies into Gaza; all sides to adhere to international law; a two-state solution as a result of a comprehensive political settlement; and an end by Israel to all illegal settlement activity and current military action." The New Zealand Government has also today released Cabinet material associated with its decision on the recognition of Palestine. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Strengthening multilateralism and dialogue at the heart of the OSCE Secretary General's participation in the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly OSCE | Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe NEW YORK/VIENNA 27 September 2025 NEW YORK/VIENNA, 27 September 2025 -- OSCE Secretary General Feridun H. Sinirlioglu concluded his visit to New York City today, where he attended the high-level week of the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly. The visit was an opportunity to meet with the United Nations Secretary-General, as well as leaders and Foreign Ministers from across the OSCE region. "We need multilateralism, we need to invest in it and redouble our efforts to relaunch dialogue, trust and cooperative security. The alternative is war and destruction," noted Secretary General Sinirlioglu. The Secretary General met with Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan of Armenia and President Ilham Aliyev of Azerbaijan, as well as Foreign Ministers Maka Botchorishvili of Georgia, Marko Djuric of Serbia, Elmedin Konakovic of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Sirojiddin Muhriddin of Tajikistan, and Bakhtiyor Saidov of Uzbekistan. He also had meetings with Foreign Ministers Andrii Sybiha of Ukraine and Sergey Lavrov of the Russian Federation, where he reiterated the OSCE's readiness to support efforts to end the war and possible confidence building measures, including the exchange of prisoners. Secretary General Sinirlioglu participated in the OSCE Ministerial Troika meeting alongside OSCE Chairperson-in-Office, Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen of Finland, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism of Malta Ian Borg, and Swiss Foreign Minister Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis. The Secretary General saw US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and discussed OSCE matters at length with other US officials, including Senior Bureau Official Brendan Hanrahan. In closing his visit, Secretary General Sinirlioglu noted: "War is not inevitable, and could have been/could be prevented, as I was reminded this week in meetings with leaders who have chosen diplomacy and peace after years of confrontation. The OSCE remains firmly committed to advance dialogue to ensure peace for all its participating States." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address New Drone Sightings Over Denmark As EU Plans Defensive Wall By RFE/RL September 27, 2025 Summary EU members agreed on the need for a "drone wall" along borders with Russia and Ukraine to counter Russian hybrid warfare tactics. Recent drone incidents disrupted airports and military sites in Denmark, raising urgency for advanced detection and interception systems. Defense ministers discussed the development of advanced detection, tracking, and interception capabilities European Union members agreed to press ahead toward creation of a "drone wall" along the borders with Russia and Ukraine following incursions that have raised fears of a stepped-up Russian "hybrid warfare" tactics. Hours later, new drone sightings were reported near military sites in Denmark, where drone activity disrupted airport operations earlier in the week. Defense ministers from countries on the EU's eastern flank discussed the development of advanced detection, tracking, and interception capabilities at a virtual meeting on September 26. Representatives of Ukraine and NATO also took part. "Russia is testing the EU and NATO, and our response must be firm, united, and immediate," EU Defence Commissioner Andrius Kubilius told reporters in Finland after the videoconference. Kubilius said participants agreed to move from "discussions to concrete actions" and EU members would examine how to create infrastructure and find funding to "make the shield a reality." "Today's meeting was a milestone -- now we focus on delivery," he said, adding that the shield could take a year to build and an "effective detection system" is the top priority. Finland, Poland, and the Baltic states of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania have been working on a drone wall project, but the EU's executive branch rejected an Estonian-Lithuanian request for funds earlier this year. A series of incursions this month has added urgency to the issue. On September 10, NATO jets shot down several of the roughly 20 Russian drones Polish officials said breached the country's airspace during attacks on Ukraine, which is the target of near-daily Russian drone and missile barrages. Days later, Romania reported a similar incursion near the Danube delta. On September 22, drones forced hours-long closures at Copenhagen Airport and also briefly shut Oslo's main aviation hub. More sightings later disrupted airports in the Danish cities of Aalborg and Billund and appeared near military sites. On September 27, officials and news outlets reported new sightings of unidentified drones near or over several military sites including Denmark's biggest base, Karup, where police said multiple drones were observed late the previous evening. Numerous Western officials have said they believe Moscow is behind the incursions. "The hybrid war is ongoing, and all countries in the European Union will experience it," Polish Defense Minister Wladyslaw Kosiniak-Kamysz told reporters in Warsaw after the talks, which included representatives from Bulgaria, Estonia, Finland, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Romania, Hungary, Slovakia, and Denmark. "The threat from the Russian Federation is serious. We must respond to it in a very radical manner," he said. Officials in Europe worry that by deploying cheap drones to harass airports and airbases, Russia can force governments to implement costly defensive responses, unsettle civilians, and probe defense vulnerabilities without triggering open conflict. Danish and regional media reported that a Russian Ropucha-class landing ship, the Aleksandr Shabalin, was filmed by helicopter loitering roughly 12 kilometers off the Danish island of Langeland during the wave of Scandinavian drone sightings. The ship reportedly had its transponder switched off. Officials have not publicly tied the vessel to the incursions, but the timing and proximity have sharpened suspicion that some launches could be sea-based. Russia has denied involvement. Experts say Europe's civil-military airspace is vulnerable and that consumer-grade or custom drones can be flown from land or sea just outside protected zones, dipping into airport approach corridors or skimming over bases to create diversions, delays, and security scares. With reporting by Merhat Sharipzhan, AP, Reuters, AFP, and Ekstra Bladet Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/drone-uav-hybrid-europe- russia-defense/33542502.html Copyright (c) 2025. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russo-Ukraine War - 27 September 2025 - Day 1312 Su M Tu W Th F Sa 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While GlobalSecurity.org takes utmost care to accurately report this news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. On 24 February 2022, Ukraine was suddenly and deliberately attacked by land, naval and air forces of Russia, igniting the largest European war since the Great Patriotic War. Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a "special military operation" (SVO - spetsialnaya voennaya operatsiya) in Ukraine in response to the appeal of the leaders of the "Donbass republics" for help. That attack is a blatant violation of the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Ukraine. Putin stressed that Moscow's goal is the demilitarization and denazification of the country. The military buildup in preceeding months makes it obvious that the unprovoked and dastardly Russian attack was deliberately planned long in advance. During the intervening time, the Russian government had deliberately sought to deceive the world by false statements and expressions of hope for continued peace. "To initiate a war of aggression... is not only an international crime; it is the supreme international crime differing only from other war crimes in that it contains within itself the accumulated evil of the whole." [Judgment of the International Military Tribunal] The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reported that in total, since the beginning of this day, there have been 145 combat clashes. Zagarbniki made 55 aviation strikes, dropping 99 controlled air bombs. In addition, the Russians have engaged 2230 kamikaze drones and carried out 3389 shelling positions of Ukrainian troops and settlements. In the North Slobozhansky and Kursky directions, Ukrainian soldiers repelled four Russian assault actions since the beginning of the day, one battle is ongoing. Also, the enemy launched 17 air strikes, while dropping 44 controlled air bombs, carrying out 169 shells, of which 11 were from the reactive systems of salvage fire. In the South Slobozhansky direction, the Russian enemy attacked the positions of Ukrainian defenders five times in the areas of populated points of Vovchansk, Krasne Pershe and towards Doroshivka, currently two clashes continue. In the Kupyansky direction, Russian units carried out six assault actions, trying to break through the positions of Ukrainian defenders in the area of the Petropavlivka settlement and towards Pi any and Boguslavka. In the Lyman direction since the beginning of the day Russian zagarbniki 15 times attacked the positions of Ukrainians in the areas of the settlements of Shandrigolove, Kolodyazi and Torske. Still in three locations, the fights continue. In the Sivers komu direction, the Russian enemy four times tried to break through near Serebryanka, Fedorivka and towards Dronivka, one fight is ongoing. Two combat clashes were recorded in the Kramators komu direction, the Russian enemy's units tried to advance towards Stupochok. In the Toretsky direction Russians 14 times attacked the positions of Defense Forces. Efforts of the attack of the Russian occupiers concentrated in the areas of Oleksandro-Shultynogo, scherbinivka, Pleshiyivka, Jablunivka and Rusynoy Yar. Since the beginning of the day in the Pokrovsky direction, Russian units have tried 40 times to break through Ukrainian defense in the areas of settlements Volodymyrivka, Nikanorivka, Chervonyi Liman, Sukhetske, Novoekonomichne, Nikolaivka, Lisivka, Zvirove, Kotline, Udaachne, Novomykolaivka, Kotlyarivka and Dachne. In some locations the fighting does not stop. Defense forces deter Russian attacks, the enemy suffers significant losses - today 154 Russian invaders have been defecated in this direction, 90 of which are irrevocable. Ukrainian defenders destroyed three units of automotive equipment and 22 unmanned aircraft. Three artillery systems, a tank, two REB vehicles are also significantly damaged. In addition to this, Ukrainian defenders have struck ten personnel covers. In the Novopavlovsk direction, Ukrainian units stopped 16 Russian attacks on the positions of Ukrainian troops in the areas of settlements Sichneve, Piddubne, Novoselivka, Sosnivka, Maliivka, Novomikolaivka, Berezove and Novogrigorivka, another combat is ongoing so far. In the Gulyaipil direction, Ukrainian defenders repelled six attempts of Russian units to advance in the Poltavka area, two more clashes are still ongoing. In the Orihivsky direction, the Russian zagarbniki six times tried to advance in the area of Stepovoye, Kamiansky and towards novodanilivka and novoandriivka. In the Pridniprovsk direction, the Russian opponent made one unsuccessful attempt to attack, suffered losses. The Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation reported that the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation continue the special military operation. Units of the Sever Group of Forces inflicted fire damage on three mechanised brigades and one assault regiment of the AFU near Varachino, Khrapovshchina, Andreyevka, and Alekseyevka (Sumy region). In Kharkov direction, units of the one AFU motorised infantry brigade and one territorial defence brigade have been hit near Otradnoye and Volchansk (Kharkov region). The AFU losses amounted to more than 175 troops, one armoured fighting vehicle, 10 motor vehicles, three artillery guns, and eight ammunition and materiel depots. As a result of resolute actions, the Zapad Group's units liberated Derilovo (Donetsk People's Republic). In Kirovsk (Donetsk People's Republic), Russian assault detachments continue to destroy scattered groups of AFU militants. Losses were inflicted on manpower and hardware of three mechanised brigades, one assault brigade of the AFU, and one territorial defence brigade near Borovskaya Andreyevka, Petrovka, Kolodeznoye (Kharkov region), Drobyshevo, Novoselovka, and Yampol (Donetsk People's Republic). The enemy losses amounted to up to 230 troops, one U.S.-made HMMWV armoured vehicle, and 18 motor vehicles. Six electronic warfare stations and four ammunition depots were neutralised. The Yug Group's units improved the situation along the front line and liberated Mayskoye (Donetsk People's Republic). In the past 24 hours, 1.1 square kilometres of territory have been liberated near Kleban-Byk Reservoir in Donetsk People's Republic. Russian troops inflicted losses on three mechanised brigades of the AFU and two territorial defence brigades near Seversk, Konstantinovka, Dronovka, Berestok, Druzhkovka, Pleshcheyevka, and Fedorovka (Donetsk People's Republic). The enemy lost up to 295 troops, one U.S.-made M113 armoured personnel carrier, and three motor vehicles. Six electronic warfare stations and five ammunition and materiel depots were neutralised. The Tsentr Group of Forces' units took more advantageous lines and positions. Russian formations engaged manpower and hardware of two heavy mechanised brigades, one mechanised brigade, one air assault brigade of the AFU, and two national guard brigades near Krasnoarmeysk, Krasny Liman, Udachnoye, Moskovskoye, Dimitrov, Petrovka, Dobropolye, Rodinskoye, and Rubezhnoye (Donetsk People's Republic). The AFU losses amounted to up to 475 troops, one tank, one armoured personnel carrier, two pickup trucks, and two artillery guns. The Vostok Group's units continued to advance to the depths of the enemy's defence and liberated Stepovoye (Dnepropetrovsk region). Three mechanised brigades and one assault brigade of the AFU have been hit near Podgavrilovka, Privolye (Dnepropetrovsk region), Novogrigorovka, Sladkoye, Uspenovka, and Gulyaipole (Zaporozhye region). The AFU losses amounted to more than 285 troops, one armoured fighting vehicle, 12 motor vehicles, and one U.S.-made 115-mm M198 howitzer. Units of the Dnepr Group of Forces inflicted losses on manpower and hardware of one mountain assault brigade, one mechanised brigade, and two coastal defence brigades of the AFU close to Veseloye, Antonovka, Sadovoye (Kherson region), Kamyshevakha, and Lukyanovskoye (Zaporozhye region). Up to 75 troops, one U.S.-made HMMWV armoured vehicle, five motor vehicles, two electronic warfare stations, and three ammunition and materiel depots have been neutralised. Operational-tactical aviation, attack drones, missile troops and artillery of the Russian Group of Forces have inflicted damage on the traction substations used for the railway weapons and military hardware supply to combat areas in Donbass, long-range unmanned aerial vehicles storage and launch areas, as well as temporary deployment areas of Ukrainian armed formations and foreign mercenaries in 138 areas. Air defence systems shot down two guided aerial bombs and 131 fixed-wing unmanned aerial vehicles. In total, since the beginning of the special military operation, 667 aircraft, 283 helicopters, 86,900 unmanned aerial vehicles, 631 anti-aircraft missile systems, 25,261 tanks and other armoured fighting vehicles, 1,592 MLRS fighting vehicles, 29,985 field artillery guns and mortars, and 42,715 special military vehicles have been neutralised. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Press release on Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's meeting with Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Federative Republic of Brazil Mauro Vieira 27 September 2025 01:58 1604-27-09-2025 On September 26, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov convened a meeting with Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Federative Republic of Brazil Mauro Vieira, on the sidelines of the 80th Session of the UN General Assembly in New York. The parties addressed the current issues pertaining to the deepening of the Russian-Brazilian strategic partnership, alongside the implementation of a schedule for bilateral contacts at various levels. In regards to the international agenda, the ministers explored avenues for fostering their cooperation within multilateral platforms, notably within the UN, BRICS - where Brazil holds the chairmanship this year - as well as in the G20. Following to the meeting, a schedule of political consultations between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Federative Republic of Brazil for 2026-2029 was signed. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Minister Anand meets with Polish counterpart Global Affairs Canada Readout September 27, 2025 - New York City, New York - Global Affairs Canada The Honourable Anita Anand, Minister of Foreign Affairs, met with Radosaw Sikorski, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Poland, on the margins of the UN General Assembly in New York City, New York. The ministers discussed pressing geopolitical challenges, including support for Ukraine's defence and recovery. The ministers also discussed pursuing deeper trade and investment ties in defence, energy, aerospace and critical minerals. Minister Anand congratulated Deputy Prime Minister Sikorski on his appointment as Deputy Prime Minister and conveyed Canada's solidarity with Poland in response to Russian drone incursions into NATO airspace. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address This aerial photo taken on Feb. 7, 2023 shows the view along the Mekong River at Lao capital Vientiane. Photo by Xinhua via AFP Star Telecom (Unitel), Vietnamese telecom giant Viettel's joint venture in Laos, was named the telecom operator with the best network infrastructure in the country, as announced on Saturday. The firm, a joint venture between Viettel and the Lao Ministry of National Defence's Lao Asia Telecom, was recognized by Ookla's Speedtest Awards based on objective analysis of data collected from users daily experience and service testing. Unitels Speedtest Connectivity Score set new benchmarks not only in infrastructure scale but also in speed and customer experience, reaching levels comparable with advanced ASEAN markets, according to Ookla, a globally trusted organization. The award is a prestigious title presented to telecom providers delivering outstanding service quality, assessed through criteria such as access speed and user experience. Soutchai Lorlonesy, Director General of the Department of Telecommunications Management under the Lao Ministry of Technology and Communications, said the award is not only a recognition for one enterprise but also a source of pride for the Lao telecommunications sector. The network enables Lao citizens to access online services of the Party and State as well as e-commerce platforms more quickly and conveniently, he noted, describing it as a key foundation for digital transformation and socio-economic development. Over its 16 years of development, Unitel has expanded telecommunications infrastructure from 2G to 5G, with nearly 10,000 mobile base transceiver stations (BTS) covering 95% of the population and over 43,000 km of fibre optic cable across Laos. These efforts have helped bridge the digital gap between regions and provided a strong basis for digital service development. Phan Xuan Luong, Deputy Technical Director of Unitel, said the company will continue investing to expand its network to remote and mountainous areas, thereby further reducing the digital gap across the country. At the same time, it will step up measures to ensure user safety in cyberspace. The award not only demonstrates Unitels development but also contributes to enhancing Laos national standing and affirms the crucial role of digital infrastructure in the country's regional and international integration. Speech by Foreign Minister Wadephul at the General Debate of the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly Germany Federal Foreign Office 27.09.2025 - Speech Madame President, It is a pleasure to see you. And a pleasure to see you in this role. Excellencies, On December 10th, 1932, a friend picked up Albert Einstein and his wife at their house near Berlin. Together, they travelled to the German port city of Bremen. Albert and Elsa Einstein boarded a ship to North America. He planned to accept a three-month position as visiting professor at the California Institute of Technology. Albert Einstein - one of the greatest physicists of all time - would never return to Germany. Only weeks later, the Nazi party came to power. Excellencies, This year marks 80 years since the San Francisco Conference and the founding of the United Nations. The Holocaust and the world war - started by Germany - taught us that the denial of human dignity destroys lives, nations, cultures. The founders of the UN came together in the belief, that the defence of freedom strengthens our shared humanity. It was the belief in a world order that gave my country the opportunity to be engaged for peace, prosperity and security - in the family of nations. The United Nations. As Germans, we are deeply grateful for this opportunity. But it also means we feel particularly responsible for the, for our United Nations. As Albert Einstein wrote in 1947: "No international organisation can be stronger than its component parts want it to be." In other words: it is up to us, the member states. We are the United Nations. We want these United Nations to be strong. Today, my country is running again for a seat as a non-permanent member of the Security Council for the 2027-28 term. We do so at a time of unprecedented instability and upheaval. In Sudan and neighbouring countries, we are witnessing the worst humanitarian catastrophe of our time: Over 30 million people in need of humanitarian assistance. Over 12 million forced to flee their homes. We all need to do more to end this tragedy. The security of the entire region is on the line. The terrible war in Gaza is raging on. Hell on earth. A humanitarian nightmare, as we speak. This war must end. The hostages must be released. The existence and the security of Israel will always be part of our raison d`etat. There must be a future in peace and in dignity for all in the Middle East. As we have reaffirmed in this Hall this week: Two States for two peoples. The only solution. I commend all those who continue to work tirelessly to find a path to peace, notably the United States of America. Excellencies, Iran has created and armed a network of malign proxy forces destabilizing the region. In addition, it has for many years been engaged in a nuclear program which goes far beyond any plausible civilian use. For us, it is imperative: Iran must never acquire a nuclear weapon. Since Iran clearly does not comply with its obligations under the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action agreed to in 2015, we had no choice but to trigger the snapback of sanctions. Following a clear vote by the Security Council yesterday, sanctions will be effective later today. But let me emphasize: we remain open to negotiations on a new agreement. Diplomacy can and should continue. And on my own continent, in Europe, Russia is waging a war of aggression against its sovereign neighbour Ukraine. A war that Ukraine did nothing to provoke. A war that demonstrates the disregard for the most fundamental of all rules of the UN Charter: that "all Member States shall refrain from the use of force against the territorial integrity of any other state". A rule that permanent members of the Security Council bear a particular responsibility to uphold. And while our minds are focused on current security and humanitarian crises, we are aware that they are aggravated by the planetary crises of pollution, climate change and biodiversity loss - all of which threaten to bring more instability, more conflicts over resources, more lost lives and livelihoods. At 80 years, our cherished organization is challenged. By a budgetary crisis. By a crisis of multilateralism and by lack of respect for international law. At this time of crises, we have set ourselves three key objectives. These have been at the heart of Germanys work at the United Nations for decades and summarize our Security Council bid today: Justice. Peace. Respect. Since joining the United Nations, we have been adamant: justice means development. "Where hunger persists, there can be no lasting peace," German Chancellor Willy Brandt said in his first address to the United Nations in 1973. Justice requires that every human being has access to food. To clean water. To education and to health care. Germany is the second largest contributor to the UN-system. We are one of the largest donors of humanitarian assistance to Gaza. We will continue to provide aid through well-established partners operating in line with humanitarian principles - including the UN. This aid must get through to the people who need it most. We repeat our urgent call on Israel to enable safe humanitarian access. We support UNHCR's work in refugee camps in Sudan and neighbouring countries. Through UNHCR, we have supported countries in providing shelter, food and medical services for refugees. And we are investing in giving people a long-term perspective. I saw for myself how citizens from Mariupol have been able to find shelter in a Hub created by the UNHCR in the city of Dnipro. Or how displaced people in Bekka Valley in Lebanon were able to return to their restored communities through the support of the UNHCR. The concept of justice also means combating climate change. I myself come from a coastal region in the North of Germany. I know first-hand the risks and the consequences of rising sea levels. And I can assure those whose safety and livelihoods are already endangered by climate change today: We are, and we remain, by your side. Climate justice means supporting those who are most affected, helping them adapt and address the losses they are already facing. It means significantly reducing emissions globally and keeping the 1.5 degree limit within reach. Germany will be a reliable partner in this. We stand by our target to be climate neutral by 2045. Excellencies, Justice. Peace. Respect. 35 years ago we made a promise: that a reunited Germany would work towards peace and stability. Our contributions to peacekeeping and peacebuilding are proof that we are keeping that promise. German troops, police officers and personnel have served in 14 peacekeeping missions over the last three-and-a-half decades. As we speak, the German military is contributing the maritime component to UNIFIL off the shores of Lebanon. German military personnel supports UNMISS and MINURSO. And we are contributing financially to the security of Haiti, where gangs are terrorizing the civilian population. A situation where the UN has an essential role to play for peace and security. We are proud that highly qualified German nationals are making the UN system work and evolve in important positions. Germany will continue to provide skilled personnel to the UN system, working for peace, development and human rights at all levels. We are the largest donor to UN Peacebuilding. Germany is chairing the Peacebuilding Commission until January of next year. This is in line with our longstanding commitment to support national peacebuilding and conflict prevention efforts. Because we are convinced that resilient civil societies and strong institutions are essential for addressing the root causes of conflict and for building peace in the long run. The Women, Security and Peace agenda provides an essential contribution in that regard. Justice. Peace. Respect. Respect for the Charter of the United Nations. Its fundamental goals and principles that we have all pledged to uphold. It is here in New York, in the halls of the United Nations, that all these Nations come together to discuss peaceful solutions to conflicts around the world. This is where we unite. This is us. There is no other place like the United Nations. Excellencies, It is out of respect for international law and human rights that Germany works towards the establishment of a special tribunal for the Crime of Aggression against Ukraine. That's why we support and defend international courts. That's why we work to protect human rights defenders where they are at risk. We stand by international humanitarian law. Ladies and gentlemen, respect also means reform. After 80 years we must make sure that our institutions represent the world as it is today. The Security Council needs additional seats - permanent and non-permanent - in order to reflect the world's actual realities. Germany is convinced that additional permanent seats must go to regions underrepresented today: Africa, Asia and Latin America. Now more than ever, we need our United Nations to be fit for purpose. Therefore, the UN80 process must succeed. Today, the United Nations need our support! Excellencies, We all would only stand to lose in a world where might makes right, where international rules are obsolete, a world where treaties are only binding for the weak - and where war is the continuation of diplomacy by other means. Such a world would ultimately be governed by force. Justice. Peace. Respect. That is Germany's offer to each and every nation represented here in this Great Hall. It is an offer to listen, to cooperate, to find solutions. It is an offer, rooted in our willingness to listen carefully to your concerns. And it is an offer which we are ready to back up. It is an offer you can always count on. Now and in the future. Thank you. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Last-Minute Bid By Russia, China To Give Iran 6 More Months Fails At UN By RFE/RL September 27, 2025 The United Nations, led by the so-called European 3 -- Britain, France, and Germany -- appears set to reimpose wide-ranging "snapback" sanctions on Iran after the Security Council rejected a last-minute bid by Russia and China to delay the action. Absent an extraordinary 11th-hour deal, the UN will at 8 p.m. Eastern time on September 27 reintroduce a series of measures against Iran. These include a conventional arms embargo, restrictions on activities related to ballistic missiles, a ban on reprocessing and enrichment of uranium, a global asset freeze, and travel bans on Iranian individuals and entities. "This council does not have the necessary assurance that there is a clear path to a swift diplomatic solution," Barbara Woodward, Britain's ambassador to the UN, said on September 26. "UN sanctions, targeting Iranian proliferation, will be reimposed this weekend." Tehran immediately blasted the UN action. Foreign Minister Abbas Aragchi told the Security Council that the "pursuit of the so-called 'snapback' is clear and consistent -- it is legally void, politically reckless, and procedurally flawed." He said Tehran will "never bow" to pressure on its nuclear program, which it says is strictly for civilian purposes, and insisted the country is not seeking nuclear weapons. Despite his defiant remarks, Aragchi left the door open to further talks during the final 24 hours before sanctions are to take effect. "Diplomacy never dies," he said. Punitive measures on Iran were lifted as part of a 2015 deal with world powers aimed at preventing Tehran from acquiring a nuclear weapon. European signatories of the accord accuse Tehran of violating the agreement. As part of the process, the Security Council had to vote within 30 days on a resolution to continue Iran's sanctions relief, requiring at least nine votes in favor and no vetoes by the United States, Russia, China, Britain, or France to pass. It voted on such a resolution on September 19, but it failed to pass. Earlier on September 26, the Security Council rejected a last-ditch bid by Russia and China to delay the reimposition of the sanctions on Iran. The two countries, both with close ties to Tehran, put forward a draft resolution that would give another half-year for talks, or until April 18, 2026, diplomats told news outlets, but the motion did not receive enough votes in the Security Council. "We had hoped that us, that European colleagues in the US, would think twice, and that they would opt for the path of diplomacy and dialog, instead of their clumsy blackmail," Russian Deputy UN Ambassador Dmitry Polyansky told the council ahead of the vote. "Did Washington, London, Paris, Berlin make any compromises? No, they did not," he said. China, Russia, Pakistan, and Algeria in the council supported giving Iran another six months. Nine countries voted no and two abstained. Following the vote, Polyansky told the council that "there has been no snapback and there will be no snapback. Any moves to resuscitate anti-Iranian Security Council resolutions, which were in effect prior to 2013, are null and void." Polyansky did not elaborate, and it wasn't immediately clear how Russia would move to stop the reimposition of sanctions. Behnam Ben Taleblu, an Iran expert at the Washington-based Foundation for Defense of Democracies, said the snapback won't have an impact if the sanctions aren't enforced. That is the next battle for Washington and its European allies. "My eye will be on: Will the Trump administration and the Europeans be able to recreate a panel of experts to deal with sanctions enforcement in 2025," he told RFE/RL. "That's how I will judge if the snapback is a success. It's not about this bureaucratic fight -- it's about the bureaucratic fights yet to come [over enforcement]." The E3 had said they would be willing to extend the deadline if Iran complied with a series of conditions, including direct negotiations with the United States over its nuclear program, allowing UN nuclear inspectors access to nuclear sites, and accounting for the more than 400 kilograms highly enriched uranium that the IAEA says Tehran holds. Aragchi and the IAEA on September 26 both said a team of inspectors from the UN watchdog were now in Iran, although details were kept confidential. The Europeans said this was not enough to prevent reimposition of sanctions on September 27. In comments to reporters after the vote, Iranian President Masud Pezeshkian said his country was prepared to be "transparent about our highly enriched uranium." But he added that the "wall of mistrust" between Tehran and Washington is "quite high." The new penalties will come on top of existing sanctions against Iran -- measures that have severely crippled the Iranian economy. Iranian officials have attempted to downplay the impact of the return of UN sanctions, but experts said they would hit Iran hard, weaking the currency, among other things. With reporting by RFE/RL's Todd Prince in Washington, Reuters, and AFP Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/iran-nuclear-snapback- sanctions-un-e3-russia/33542035.html Copyright (c) 2025. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran Recalls Ambassadors As 'Snapback' Sanctions Loom By RFE/RL September 27, 2025 Iran has recalled its ambassadors to Britain, France, and Germany as the clocked ticks down toward the imposition of UN "snapback" sanctions on Tehran over its nuclear program. Barring an extraordinary 11th-hour deal, the UN is set to reintroduce punitive measures against Iran at midnight GMT on September 27. Iran's Foreign Ministry said it had summoned the ambassadors home for consultations following what it called the "irresponsible move" by the three European permanent UN Security Council members. The three countries, known collectively as the E3, had triggered a 30-day countdown to the reimposition of sanctions by accusing Iran of violating a 2015 deal aimed to prevent it from developing a nuclear weapon. A last-minute bid by permanent members Russia and China to delay the snapback sanctions by six months failed in the Security Council on September 26. What Will Iran Sanctions Include? The punitive measures include a conventional arms embargo, restrictions on activities related to ballistic missiles, a ban on reprocessing and enrichment of uranium, a global asset freeze, and travel bans on Iranian individuals and entities. "This council does not have the necessary assurance that there is a clear path to a swift diplomatic solution," Barbara Woodward, Britain's ambassador to the UN, said on September 26. "UN sanctions, targeting Iranian proliferation, will be reimposed this weekend." Tehran immediately blasted the UN action. Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi told the Security Council that the "pursuit of the so-called 'snapback' is...legally void, politically reckless, and procedurally flawed." He said Tehran will "never bow" to pressure on its nuclear program, which it says is strictly for civilian purposes, and insisted the country is not seeking nuclear weapons. Despite his defiant remarks, Araqchi left the door open to further talks during the final 24 hours before sanctions are to take effect. "Diplomacy never dies," he said. Punitive measures on Iran were lifted as part of the 2015 deal with world powers. European signatories of the accord accuse Tehran of violating the agreement. As part of the process, the Security Council had to vote within 30 days on a resolution to continue Iran's sanctions relief, requiring at least nine votes in favor and no vetoes by the United States, Russia, China, Britain, or France to pass. It voted on such a resolution on September 19, but it failed to pass. Russia Calls Sanctions 'Clumsy Blackmail' The draft resolution proposed by Russia and China, which have close ties to Iran, would have given another nearly seven more months for talks, diplomats told news outlets, but the motion did not receive enough votes. "We had hoped that [the E3 and the United States] would think twice and would opt for the path of diplomacy and dialogue, instead of their clumsy blackmail," Russian Deputy UN Ambassador Dmitry Polyansky told the council ahead of the vote. "Did Washington, London, Paris, Berlin make any compromises? No, they did not," he said. Temporary Security Council members Pakistan and Algeria joined Russia and China in supporting the extension. Nine countries voted no and two abstained. Following the vote, Polyansky told the council that "there has been no snapback and there will be no snapback. Any moves to resuscitate anti-Iranian Security Council resolutions, which were in effect prior to 2013, are null and void." Polyansky did not elaborate, and it wasn't immediately clear how Russia would move to stop the reimposition of sanctions. Behnam Ben Taleblu, an Iran expert at the Washington-based Foundation for Defense of Democracies, said the snapback won't have an impact if the sanctions aren't enforced. That is the next battle for Washington and its European allies. "My eye will be on: Will the Trump administration and the Europeans be able to recreate a panel of experts to deal with sanctions enforcement in 2025?" he told RFE/RL. "That's how I will judge if the snapback is a success. It's not about this bureaucratic fight -- it's about the bureaucratic fights yet to come [over enforcement]." The 'Wall Of Mistrust' The E3 had said they would be willing to extend the deadline if Iran complied with a series of conditions, including direct negotiations with the United States over its nuclear program, allowing UN nuclear inspectors access to nuclear sites, and accounting for the more than 400 kilograms highly enriched uranium that the IAEA says Tehran holds. Araqchi and the IAEA on September 26 both said a team of inspectors from the UN watchdog were now in Iran, although details were kept confidential. The Europeans said this was not enough to prevent reimposition of sanctions on September 27. In comments to reporters after the vote, Iranian President Masud Pezeshkian said his country was prepared to be "transparent about our highly enriched uranium." But he added that the "wall of mistrust" between Tehran and Washington is "quite high." The new penalties will come on top of existing sanctions against Iran that have severely crippled its economy. Iranian officials have attempted to downplay the impact of the return of UN sanctions, but experts said they would hit Iran hard, weakening the currency, among other things. With reporting by RFE/RL's Radio Farda, Todd Prince in Washington, Reuters, and AFP Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/iran-nuclear-snapback- sanctions-un-e3-russia/33542035.html Copyright (c) 2025. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Iran 'Snapback' Requires Diplomatic Strategy, Expert Says By RFE/RL September 27, 2025 The United Nations is poised to reimpose sweeping snapback sanctions on Iran after the Security Council rejected a last-minute effort by Russia and China to stall the move. Barring an unexpected breakthrough, the measures will take effect at 8 p.m. EST on September 27. The sanctions include a conventional arms embargo, restrictions on ballistic-missile activity, a ban on uranium enrichment and reprocessing, as well as global asset freezes and travel bans targeting Iranian individuals and entities. Behnam Ben Taleblu, a senior fellow at the Washington-based Foundation for Defense of Democracies, discussed the UN decision and its broader implications with RFE/RL. RFE/RL: If snapback goes forward, what specific UN measures and restrictions would actually come back into force? Ben Taleblu: Barring any last-minute unforeseen Hail Marys by the Russians or Chinese or a massive concession by America or the Europeans, snapback is basically on track. What snapback does is it restores the six UN Security Council resolutions that previously existed governing Iran's nuclear program between 2006 and 2010 and that were actively enforced up until 2015. So it restores all of the multilateral pressures, prohibitions, sanctions, you name it, that were contained in those six resolutions. By way of example, there's stuff related to the nuclear program that calls on Iran not to enrich uranium or reprocess plutonium. There's a lot of political attention paid to getting inspectors back into Iran. There are sanctions against Iran's missile and nuclear infrastructure. There are permanent arms transfer bans. There are permanent ballistic-missile testing and transfer bans. And then there's also travel prohibitions, as well. RFE/RL: If the snapback moves forward, what should we realistically expect to happen next inside the UN system? Taleblu: Because there are a whole host of entities, like the European Union, for example, that built up their own sovereign sanctions authorities on the back end of the toughest UN Security Council resolution on Iran...those entities now would be obliged to go back and update their council resolutions to account for the new facts on the ground. One of the good things about those older resolutions is that they had something called a "panel of experts" -- because it had sanctions, it had to monitor sanctions implementation and enforcement as well as violations. What I'm looking for as an Iran watcher is: How will the Trump administration fight these bureaucratic battles in the UN system...to get the most juice out of snapback? Once you restore those older penalties, they have to be incorporated into a diplomatic strategy by the West. So they don't just kind of exist in their own right. One should do something with them. The Russians have been instrumental...in preventing current UN Resolution 2231 from even having a panel of experts and then working to gut other panel of experts that exist when it relates to North Korea or Mali, for example. My eye will be on: Will the Trump administration and the Europeans be able to recreate a panel of experts to deal with sanctions enforcement in 2025? RFE/RL: Why is the UN track so important for the US when it comes to pressuring Iran, and how does this tie into the broader competition with Russia and China? Taleblu: The goal is to now use the UN system as much as possible, which is why it's imperative that the Trump administration see this through the prism of great-power competition. This is much bigger than just Iran and the Middle East. It's imperative for the Trump administration...to actually have an international organization strategy -- to actually have a diplomatic ground game -- and to actually be able to work with its European partners with and through the UN system. The goal now is not to just have to rely on the US, but it's to have to benefit from the multilateralization of max pressure, and that's how I will judge if the snapback is a success. It's not about this bureaucratic fight. It is about the bureaucratic fights yet to come. RFE/RL: Does snapback undermine the possibility of negotiations, or could it actually strengthen the diplomatic track? Taleblu: Those who say that this effort closes the door to diplomacy and guarantees conflict forget the chronology of how we got the [Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action] in 2013 and the JCPOA of 2015 because they followed the resolutions that came in from 2006 to 2010. By the sheer chronology of it, these resolutions did not shut the door for diplomacy; if anything, they helped to make a more serious and vigorous case for using diplomacy to deal with the nuclear program. The regime is just trying to do everything it can to avoid pressures and oversight, particularly when it is exposed and weak, as it has been in the post 12-day-war world. RFE/RL: What leverage does the US have over Iran at this point, especially with Europe no longer firmly in Tehran's corner? Taleblu: Tehran understands now that the limited military option is on the table vis-a-vis the Israelis and the Americans. And now they've lost the Europeans in a world where the Europeans fought [President Donald] Trump tooth and nail after Trump left the [nuclear] deal in 2018. They no longer even have that diplomatic card as well to play. The art of the deal for the president is how best to take advantage of this situation and actually flesh out and capitalize that Iranian sense of weakness for maximum political gain. The Iranians don't want to be seen as compromising. But now, compromise is the only thing that actually could open the door for the regime, because if they do things like they've threatened in the past in response to snapback, which is leaving the [Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty], they now understand -- or I think they now understand -- that that would trigger a potential use of force by Israel or America. That's why the regime, in the past few months, even though it's still dangling this threat of NPT withdrawal, has kind of tried to walk back some of that rhetoric at the same time. RFE/RL: Can Russia and China help Iran overcome the impact of the snapback? Taleblu: Well, the fear here is that both legally and politically the Russians and Chinese would be the bureaucratic knife-fighters, and then economically, particularly the Chinese. Bureaucratic knife-fighters within the UN system carry water for them at the IAEA, fight the US and the Europeans every nook and cranny when it comes to enforcement of the penalties that exist in those previous sanctions resolutions, delay or prevent things like the panel of experts from coming back. The one fear here is that they could nest the Iran issue deeper into the great-power competition issue, forcing America to have to trade off. I'm mentioning China here specifically because there are reports about China actually wanting to import more Iranian oil. They may try to keep the Islamic republic afloat through other measures that would then test the West's will at every juncture in the crisis. Will you enforce it? And how will you enforce it? This interview has been edited for clarity and length. Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/iran-nuclear-snapback- sanctions-un-e3-russia/33542035.html Copyright (c) 2025. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Press release on Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's meeting with Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela Yvan Gil 27 September 2025 02:34 1606-27-09-2025 On September 26, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov held a meeting with Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela Yvan Gil on the sidelines of the 80th Session of the UN General Assembly in New York. During the discussions, the parties acknowledged the convergence of Russian and Venezuelan perspectives on the majority of issues concerning the contemporary global agenda. Further measures were delineated to enhance foreign policy coordination across multilateral platforms, particularly within the Group of Friends in Defence of the Charter of the United Nations. Sergey Lavrov underscored the categorical unacceptability of coercive measures against sovereign states as a means of foreign policy. He expressed solidarity with the Venezuelan leadership amidst escalating external threats and attempts at interference in internal affairs, reaffirming Russia's unwavering support for Caracas' endeavours to uphold national sovereignty. The ministers noted the dynamic progress in strategic partnership relations between Moscow and Caracas, agreeing to persist in fostering their comprehensive strengthening with a focus on deepening political dialogue, expanding trade, economic, investment, scientific, and technological ties, as well as broadening cultural, humanitarian, and educational exchanges. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Press release on Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's meeting with Prime Minister of the Republic of Sudan Kamil Idris 27 September 2025 02:15 1605-27-09-2025 On September 26, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov held talks with Prime Minister of the Republic of Sudan Kamil Idris on the sidelines of the 80th Session of the UN General Assembly in New York. The discussion focused primarily on the situation in Sudan amid the ongoing military-political crisis that has persisted since April 2023. The Russian side underscored the urgent need to halt armed hostilities and initiate a post-conflict recovery process, paving the way for nationwide reconciliation. Various aspects of further strengthening the traditionally friendly Russian-Sudanese relations were examined, with particular emphasis on enhancing trade and economic cooperation. Both parties reaffirmed their mutual interest in maintaining active foreign policy coordination within the UN and other international platforms. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Press release on Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's meeting with Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Singapore Vivian Balakrishnan 27 September 2025 01:52 1603-27-09-2025 On September 26, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov held a meeting with Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Singapore Vivian Balakrishnan on the sidelines of the 80th Session of the UN General Assembly in New York. The parties discussed the state of and prospects for bilateral relations against the backdrop of the prevailing international and regional situation. Key priorities for advancing Russia's engagement with ASEAN were also reviewed. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Press release on Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's meeting with Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Federal Republic of Nigeria Yusuf Maitama Tuggar 27 September 2025 00:53 1602-27-09-2025 On September 26, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov held a meeting with Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Federal Republic of Nigeria Yusuf Maitama Tuggar on the sidelines of the 80th Session of the UN General Assembly in New York. The discussion focused on pressing matters concerning the continued progressive development of traditionally friendly Russian-Nigerian relations including the maintenance of an active political dialogue and the expansion of cooperation in trade, economic, investment, cultural, and other areas. Particular emphasis was placed on Russia and Nigeria's cooperation within the Gas Exporting Countries Forum, as well as preparations for participation in the organisation's 27th Ministerial Meeting on October 23, 2025, in Doha. On September 26, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov held a meeting with Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Federal Republic of Nigeria Yusuf Maitama Tuggar on the sidelines of the 80th Session of the UN General Assembly in New York. The discussion focused on pressing matters concerning the continued progressive development of traditionally friendly Russian-Nigerian relations including the maintenance of an active political dialogue and the expansion of cooperation in trade, economic, investment, cultural, and other areas. Particular emphasis was placed on Russia and Nigeria's cooperation within the Gas Exporting Countries Forum, as well as preparations for participation in the organisation's 27th Ministerial Meeting on October 23, 2025, in Doha. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Foreign Ministry statement on the reasons for Russia's refusal to participate in the 14th Conference on Facilitating Entry into Force of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT) 27 September 2025 00:47 1601-27-09-2025 On September 26, the 14th Conference on Facilitating the Entry into Force of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT) was held on the sidelines of the High-Level Week of the UN General Assembly. Such conferences are convened biennially per Article XIV of the Treaty until it enters into force, to decide by consensus what measures can and should be taken to enable the start of the full operation of the CTBT as soon as possible. The Russian Federation has invariably participated in such conferences and used to make a significant contribution to formulating their final documents. We made substantive and active efforts on the draft resolution of this recent conference as well. However, the results of several months of consultations with other nations' representatives clearly showed an unbridgeable gap between the views of Russia and Western countries on which steps should be taken to attain the fundamental goal of the Conference. The wording of the final document of the 14th Conference runs contrary to our stances. We cannot accept the allegations included in this declaration against our ally, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea. At one time, Moscow assisted Pyongyang in repelling the aggression of the united West, and this time our allies have made an invaluable contribution to protecting the territorial integrity of the Russian Federation. In this regard, we do not consider it possible to join any anti-Korea statements and documents. Moreover, we note that such politically motivated attacks do not correspond to the goals and objectives of the Conference. The main reason the CTBT has not entered into force is the United States' obstructionist policy towards this Treaty. It was exactly the successive American administrations that have not made any effort to ratify the Treaty for almost thirty years. Under the circumstances, we find attempts to attribute responsibility for the fact that the Treaty has not become a truly operating international legal mechanism to the DPRK absolutely unacceptable. Pyongyang's position is caused by the unparalleled pressure exerted on it by the United States and its allies. All this made it impossible for us to approve the final declaration of the 14th Conference on Facilitating the Entry into Force of the CTBT and made it meaningless for us to participate in this event even as an observer. We emphasise that Russia remains committed to the values of the Treaty. A striking example of this is the completion on December 14, 2023 of the Russian segment (the second largest in the world) of the International Monitoring System which is a major component of the CTBT verification mechanism. Russia is determined to keep contributing to the entry into force of the Treaty. However, it does not depend on us whether this goal can be achieved. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Press release on Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's meeting with Minister of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration, and Development Cooperation of the Republic of Burundi Edouard Bizimana 27 September 2025 00:13 1600-27-09-2025 On September 26, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov held a meeting with Minister of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration, and Development Cooperation of the Republic of Burundi Edouard Bizimana in New York on the sidelines of the 80th session of the UN General Assembly. During the discussions, the ministers deliberated on pivotal issues pertaining to the further strengthening of the traditionally amicable Russian-Burundian relations. Both parties reaffirmed their mutual commitment to intensifying political dialogue and broadening mutually advantageous cooperation in trade, economic, cultural, and other areas. The ministers had a substantive and trust-based exchange of views on matters of mutual interest concerning the international and regional agenda. They confirmed their readiness to augment foreign policy coordination within the UN - including its Security Council - and other multilateral fora. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address