Category: World

A school bus carrying 44 children and teachers caught fire in Thailand after a tire burst, resulting in up to 25 feared dead. The bus was part of a trip from Wat Khao Phraya Sangkharam school. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra expressed condolences. Rescue efforts are ongoing, with bodies being recovered from the charred wreckage. The incident highlights Thailand’s poor road safety record, with around 20,000 annual traffic deaths.READ FULL

Shigeru Ishiba, 67, has been appointed as Japan’s new prime minister. He plans to call a general election for October 27. Ishiba aims to address Japan’s economic challenges, demographic crisis, and regional security concerns. His cabinet appointments are expected soon. Markets have reacted cautiously to his economic policies. Ishiba supports increased defense spending and stronger international alliances to counter regional threats, particularly from China and Russia.READ FULL

Nepal is grappling with devastating floods and landslides caused by heavy monsoon rains, resulting in at least 192 deaths and 31 missing. Kathmandu, the capital, experienced its worst flooding in over two decades, temporarily isolating it from the rest of the country. Search and rescue operations are ongoing, with teams clearing mud from affected areas, particularly unauthorized riverside settlements. Experts attribute the severity of the disaster to climate change and unplanned urban development along the Bagmati River. The government is focusing on rescue efforts and assisting stranded individuals.READ FULL

SpaceX’s Crew-9 mission successfully docked with the International Space Station on Sunday, after launching from Cape Canaveral on Saturday. NASA astronaut Nick Hague and Russian cosmonaut Alexander Gorbunov boarded the ISS, preparing to bring back astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams, who were stranded due to issues with their Boeing Starliner spacecraft. The mission, delayed by technical evaluations and Hurricane Helene, will last about five months for Hague and Gorbunov. The crew will conduct approximately 200 scientific experiments during their stay.READ FULL

New York Mayor Eric Adams has been indicted on federal criminal charges, becoming the first sitting mayor of the city to face such legal action. While the exact charges are not yet clear, the indictment follows multiple corruption probes into Adams’ administration. At least four federal investigations are ongoing, including three led by the Manhattan US district court. Adams has declared his innocence, stating he will fight any charges. Federal prosecutors are expected to reveal details of the indictment on Thursday.READ FULL

Australia, Canada, Germany, and The Netherlands are initiating legal action against Afghanistan’s Taliban government at the International Court of Justice for violating women’s rights. The countries argue that the Taliban’s policies violate the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women. The Taliban has implemented severe restrictions on women and girls since returning to power in 2021, including bans on education and public spaces. Over 20 countries support this unprecedented legal push. ICJ rulings are binding but lack enforcement mechanisms.READ FULL

The US and allies have called for a 21-day ceasefire along the Israel-Lebanon border, while also supporting a ceasefire in Gaza. This comes after intense discussions at the UN. Israel has widened airstrikes in Lebanon, killing at least 72 people. The US has been engaging with officials to reduce hostilities, and world leaders have expressed concern about the escalating conflict. The situation is putting pressure on the Biden administration to find a diplomatic solution.READ FULL

Former US President Donald Trump claims Iran poses “big threats” to his life. His campaign says US intelligence warned of “real and specific” assassination threats from Tehran. This comes amid heightened security concerns following recent violence and alleged Iranian cyberattacks targeting Trump’s campaign. US intelligence agencies accuse Iran of attempting to influence the 2024 election. Trump’s campaign states that law enforcement is working to ensure his protection and a fair election. Iran has denied these accusations.READ FULL

Foreign ministers of Egypt, Iraq, and Jordan issued a joint statement condemning Israel’s actions against Lebanon, warning it could lead to a regional war. The statement, released after a meeting at the UN General Assembly in New York, emphasized that halting the escalation in the region must begin with stopping Israel’s aggression in Gaza. The ministers expressed concern over the potential for widespread conflict if the situation is not addressed.READ FULL

Pope Francis has offered refuge in Vatican City to Myanmar’s detained former leader Aung San Suu Kyi. The 78-year-old Nobel laureate is currently serving a 27-year sentence following the 2021 military coup. The Pope expressed concern about Myanmar’s situation, emphasizing the importance of peace and democratic rights. Suu Kyi, once celebrated for human rights advocacy, faced criticism over the Rohingya crisis in 2017. Myanmar has been in turmoil since the coup, with ongoing conflicts between the military junta and various opposition groups.READ FULL

Scientists from New Zealand’s National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research have discovered a new species of ghost shark, named the Australasian Narrow-nosed Spookfish. Found in deep waters off Australia and New Zealand, this cartilaginous fish lives at depths up to 2,600 meters. Previously thought to be part of a global species, genetic and morphological differences confirm its unique status. The discovery highlights the challenges of studying deep-sea creatures and the excitement of such findings in marine biology.READ FULL

Iwao Hakamada, 88, the world’s longest-serving death row inmate, awaits a Japanese court’s decision on his retrial for a 1966 quadruple murder. Released in 2014 after 46 years in prison, Hakamada’s case has raised concerns about Japan’s justice system, including fabricated evidence and coerced confessions. His supporters hope for acquittal, while prosecutors maintain his guilt. The case highlights issues with Japan’s death penalty and “hostage justice” system. The verdict could end this 58-year-old case, potentially exonerating Hakamada.READ FULL

Jihadist groups linked to al Qaeda and Islamic State are gaining ground in West Africa’s Sahel region, with attacks increasing significantly since 2021. The conflict has contributed to a 62% rise in migration to Europe from Sahel countries. Western powers have lost influence in the region following military coups, while Russian mercenaries have moved in. Experts warn of the potential for jihadi states to emerge, posing risks of terrorism beyond the region. European governments are divided on how to respond to the growing crisis.READ FULL

The US FDA has approved AstraZeneca’s FluMist nasal spray flu vaccine for self-administration, marking a first. Starting next fall, individuals over 18 can order and administer the needle-free spray to themselves or others aged 2-49 through online pharmacies. This approval aims to increase convenience and accessibility for flu vaccinations. The decision comes as flu vaccination rates have declined by 3.3% since 2020-21. A recent survey suggests that at-home vaccination options could boost uptake. The vaccine uses a weakened form of live influenza virus.READ FULL

The family of Abdul Ali, a blasphemy suspect killed in police custody in Quetta, Pakistan, has forgiven the police officer accused of the killing. Ali’s son announced they won’t press charges “in the name of God.” The case highlights Pakistan’s strict blasphemy laws and their societal impact. The suspect was initially moved to a secure facility after crowds demanded his public execution. A court will consider the family’s plea for pardon.READ FULL

Malaysian police arrested Nasiruddin Mohd Ali, CEO of Global Ikhwan Services and Business (GISB) Holdings, along with 18 others in connection with alleged child abuse at charity homes. GISB, linked to a banned religious sect, denies managing the shelters where over 400 children were recently rescued. Three men were charged with sexual assault at a religious school. The company is also under investigation for money laundering and other offenses.READ FULL

A new study found that over 3,600 chemicals used in food packaging have been detected in human bodies, with about 100 considered highly concerning for health. These include known hazardous substances like PFAS and bisphenol A, as well as less-studied chemicals. Researchers were surprised by the high number of detected chemicals and recommend reducing contact time with food packaging to minimize potential health risks.READ FULL

The World Meteorological Organization reports that the ozone layer is recovering, despite a recent volcanic eruption near Tonga. The layer is expected to return to 1980 levels by 2066 over Antarctica, 2045 over the Arctic, and 2040 globally. This progress is attributed to the Montreal Protocol’s phase-out of ozone-depleting substances. Efforts are now focused on reducing hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), powerful greenhouse gases that replaced CFCs.READ FULL

Azerbaijan, host of COP29, has proposed voluntary initiatives on various topics, including climate finance and emissions reduction, to supplement the main climate negotiations. The host country unveiled over a dozen sideline initiatives, including a proposed fund for developing countries. This comes as formal negotiations on climate finance for developing nations face disagreements. The UN climate summit, scheduled for November, aims to set new climate finance targets, replacing the previous $100 billion annual goal.READ FULL

India plans to add a record 35 GW of solar and wind energy capacity to its grid by March 2025, aiming to accelerate progress towards its 2030 clean energy target. Despite recent slowdowns in solar farm commissioning, officials expect 30 GW of new solar capacity and 5 GW of wind capacity this fiscal year. The country faces challenges in meeting its ambitious clean energy goals while balancing growing power demand.READ FULL

A global network of “virus hunters” is working to identify emerging viral threats, many driven by climate change, to prevent future pandemics. The Abbott Pandemic Defense Coalition, comprising doctors and scientists worldwide, has uncovered unusual outbreaks and new disease patterns. Their work includes sequencing samples, developing diagnostic tests, and studying how climate change impacts disease spread. The coalition aims to detect and respond quickly to potential pandemic threats.READ FULL

UN member states will debate a Palestinian-backed resolution demanding Israel end its occupation of Palestinian territories within 12 months. The draft, based on an ICJ advisory opinion, calls for Israeli force withdrawal, halt to settlements, and return of seized land. Israel denounces the resolution as “disgraceful,” while Palestinians hope for international pressure. The vote is expected Tuesday or Wednesday.READ FULL

Venezuelan authorities arrested six foreign nationals – three Americans, two Spaniards, and one Czech – claiming they were involved in a plot to assassinate President Nicolas Maduro. The US, Spain, and Czech Republic are demanding information about their detained citizens. Maduro alleges the group had ties to foreign intelligence agencies and the opposition. The arrests come amid heightened tensions following disputed July elections.READ FULL

Typhoon Yagi’s aftermath in Myanmar has led to 226 deaths, with 630,000 people potentially needing aid. The UN warns of urgent needs for food, water, and shelter. Myanmar’s junta has appealed for foreign aid, with India responding. The typhoon also caused significant damage in Vietnam, with 292 deaths and $1.6 billion in economic losses. Relief efforts are hampered by infrastructure damage and communication issues.READ FULL

Eleven more people have been killed in ongoing violence in Sinaloa, Mexico, bringing the total death toll to over 30 in a week. The violence is believed to be due to cartel infighting following the arrest of Sinaloa Cartel co-founder Ismael Zambada and El Chapo’s son in the US. The conflict has led to school closures, cancellation of Independence Day celebrations, and a US security alert. The clashes are reportedly between factions loyal to El Chapo’s sons and those aligned with Zambada.READ FULL

Tribal violence in Papua New Guinea’s highlands has resulted in at least 30 deaths, with hundreds displaced and homes burned. The conflict began in August after illegal miners attacked a landowner in the gold-rich Porgera Valley. Police have been given emergency powers, including authorization to use lethal force, to restore order. The presence of over 100 high-powered weapons has intensified the violence. Authorities have implemented curfews and alcohol bans in response to the crisis.READ FULL

A report on the 2023 Maui wildfire that killed 102 people found “no evidence” that Hawaii officials prepared for the disaster despite advance warnings. The National Weather Service alerted fire managers about critical fire weather conditions days before the incident. However, key agencies failed to develop plans for dealing with the severe wildfire risk, such as increasing staff, positioning emergency vehicles, or planning evacuations. The lack of preparation hindered evacuation efforts in Lahaina before it burned.READ FULL

Iraqi forces and U.S. troops conducted a joint operation in Anbar province, killing several senior Islamic State (IS) commanders. Among the dead were Abu Ali Al-Tunisi, wanted by the U.S. for $5 million, and Ahmad Hamed Zwein, IS deputy commander in Iraq. The operation, which began in late August, resulted in the confiscation of weapons and identification of 14 IS commanders. Despite IS’s defeat in 2017, sleeper cell attacks have increased in Iraq and Syria. The U.S. plans to transition its forces out of Iraq gradually.READ FULL

Firefighters in Southern California made progress against three major wildfires, aided by cooler temperatures. The largest, the Bridge Fire, has burned 81 square miles and is 3% contained. Evacuation orders are being scaled back. The Line Fire in San Bernardino mountains is 21% contained, while the Airport Fire is 8% contained. A suspect has been charged with arson for starting the Line Fire. Despite progress, the fires still pose significant threats to some communities. No deaths have been reported, but several injuries have occurred.READ FULL

The World Health Organization (WHO) has granted its first authorization for an mpox vaccine for adults, made by Bavarian Nordic A/S. This pre-qualification allows organizations like GAVI and UNICEF to purchase the vaccine. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus called for urgent scale-up of procurement and distribution. While primarily approved for adults, the vaccine may be used in children during outbreaks. This comes as Africa, particularly Congo, faces a severe mpox outbreak, with children accounting for most cases and deaths.READ FULL

Alberto Fujimori, former president of Peru, has died at 86. His presidency (1990-2000) began with economic reforms and defeating the Shining Path insurgency but ended in disgrace due to human rights abuses and corruption. Fujimori was convicted and imprisoned but later pardoned in December. He had planned to run for president again in 2026. His daughter Keiko announced his death, stating he succumbed to cancer. Fujimori’s legacy remains controversial, marked by both economic recovery and authoritarian excesses.READ FULL

The UN reports a slight decrease in the probability of La Nina occurring this year, now at 55-60% chance between September and February. Despite hopes that La Nina could lower temperatures after recent heat records, WMO chief Celeste Saulo warns it won’t change the long-term trajectory of rising global temperatures. The chance of El Nino redeveloping is negligible. Extreme weather continues even under neutral conditions, emphasizing the importance of early warning systems. READ FULL

Japan’s main whaling company has caught its first fin whale commercially in 48 years. The 19.6-meter male whale, weighing 55 tonnes, was harpooned on August 1. Japan resumed commercial whaling in 2019 after leaving the International Whaling Commission. The government allows a catch of 376 whales this year, including 59 fin whales. Conservationists are alarmed as fin whales are considered vulnerable. The whale meat will be consumed in Japan, with tasting events planned.READ FULL

Hundreds evacuated near Kanlaon volcano in the Philippines after it emitted high levels of sulphur dioxide, signaling potential eruption. About 300 residents from villages within 4km of the crater were moved to temporary shelters. The volcano’s sulphur dioxide emissions nearly tripled, reaching record levels. Authorities warned of possible eruptive unrest, with risks including ash clouds and rockfalls. Kanlaon, one of 24 active volcanoes in the Philippines, has erupted 15 times in the past nine years.READ FULL

Energy drinks are booming in Afghanistan, with local brands filling the market alongside global names. Despite Taliban rule, the caffeine-rich beverages remain popular among all segments of society, from secret police to children. Many Afghans use them to supplement inadequate diets and cope with hardships. Local production is thriving, with one company claiming to produce over a million cans daily. However, health concerns arise from excessive consumption, as many rely on the drinks to fuel long work days in a struggling economy.READ FULL

Australia plans to introduce legislation banning children from social media, with a minimum age limit potentially set between 14 and 16 years old. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese cited mental health concerns and the need for real-world experiences as motivations. The government will conduct age verification trials, though experts question the technical feasibility of enforcing such bans. Critics warn that excluding young people from digital spaces could be harmful, suggesting that regulating platforms might be more effective than restricting youth access.READ FULL