Tropical Storm Sara to trigger life-threatening flooding, landslides across Central America

Tropical Storm Sara has formed off Honduras, bringing threats of severe flooding and landslides to Central America. With winds at 40 mph, it is expected to deliver up to 30 inches of rain. The storm is projected to impact Honduras and Belize before moving towards the Gulf of Mexico, with potential effects reaching Florida.

Trump threatens 200% tariff on wine, champagne from France, other EU nations

President Trump threatened to impose 200% tariffs on French and EU alcoholic products in response to the EU's planned levies on US whiskey. He criticized the EU's tariffs as "nasty" and called it a hostile entity towards the US. This escalation in trade tensions has raised concerns over potential economic impacts, especially on the spirits industry.

India gifts urgently-needed medicine to Sri Lanka

India has donated 50,000 ampoules of Furosemide injection to Sri Lanka in response to a medical shortage. The donation, facilitated by the Indian High Commission, underscores India's ongoing support during crises, having previously supplied medicines and vaccines during the Covid-19 pandemic. India's assistance includes a $1 billion credit facility for essential items and various health infrastructure initiatives in Sri Lanka.

Europe: Measles cases doubled in 2024 to 25-year high, says WHO

Measles cases in Europe soared to a 25-year high in 2024, with 127,350 cases and 38 deaths reported, according to the WHO. Romania and Kazakhstan were the hardest hit. The WHO emphasized the urgency of increasing vaccination rates, as half of the cases required hospitalization and many affected were children under five.

Barack and Michelle Obama in talks to produce Tiger Woods biopic at Amazon MGM

Barack and Michelle Obama are developing a biopic about Tiger Woods, focusing on his historic "Tiger Slam" achievements. The film, produced by Higher Ground Productions and directed by Reinaldo Marcus Green, is based on Kevin Cook's book and will be distributed by Amazon MGM. It will not address Woods' personal controversies following his 2009 car crash.

Blood Moon rising: First total lunar eclipse since 2022 to bathe world in red light

A "Blood Moon" will illuminate parts of the Americas, Western Europe, and Africa during a total lunar eclipse on Thursday night. The event, lasting around six hours with over an hour of totality, occurs when the Earth casts its shadow on the Moon, turning it red. The next total lunar eclipse will be in September, followed by a partial solar eclipse on March 29.

Israel drops 10,000 aid packages to Druze communities in southern Syria

Israel has delivered 10,000 humanitarian aid packages to Druze communities in southern Syria, coordinated with local leaders. Amidst ongoing tensions, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu advocates for the demilitarization of the region and the protection of Druze communities. Additionally, Syrian Druze laborers are set to work in the Israeli Golan Heights, marking a shift in Israeli policy.

Australia moves to arm troops with anti-ship missiles as China threat looms

Australia is assessing two advanced anti-ship missiles to enhance its military capabilities amid growing Chinese naval activity near its coast. The missiles, to be launched from mobile platforms, aim to protect Australia's maritime approaches. With a defense budget of up to AUD$74 billion over the next decade, Australia seeks to counter China's military assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific region.

Pope Francis marks 12 years as pontiff while hospitalised at 88

Pope Francis marks 12 years as head of the Catholic Church amid health concerns following a month-long hospitalization for pneumonia. While his condition has stabilized, doubts linger about his ability to lead. His recovery may take weeks, and he has missed key events, prompting speculation about potential resignation. His papacy has introduced significant reforms, but many remain unfinished.

Taiwan plans to reinstate military judges for China spy cases

Taiwan plans to reinstate military judges to address rising Chinese espionage cases involving its service members, according to President Lai Ching-te. Prosecutions for spying have surged, with military personnel being primary targets of Chinese infiltration. Lai announced a review of laws to enable military trials for various offenses, amid increasing tensions between Taiwan and China.

Pakistan train hijack hostages end ordeal with arrival in Quetta

Dozens were rescued from a train hijacked by Baloch Liberation Army militants in Pakistan, resulting in 21 hostages and four security personnel killed. Security forces eliminated all 33 attackers after a day-long standoff. The militants targeted passengers based on their origins, with threats to kill hostages if demands for political prisoner releases were not met. Prime Minister Sharif condemned the attack.

The Canadian Provincial Leader Going Toe-to-Toe With Trump

Doug Ford, Ontario's premier, has emerged as a key figure in Canada's response to President Trump's tariff threats, proposing a retaliatory export tax on electricity. After Trump threatened to double tariffs on Canadian goods, Ford backed off following discussions with U.S. officials. As Canada navigates a political transition, Ford emphasizes the need for a coordinated response to protect economic interests.

How Europe’s Military Stacks Up Against Russia Without U.S. Support

NATO conducted military exercises in Romania, involving 10,000 troops near Ukraine's border, highlighting concerns about U.S. commitment to NATO. As Europe considers its defense capabilities without U.S. support, experts believe European forces are improving but face challenges in air defense and intelligence. The situation raises questions about Europe's ability to defend against a potentially stronger Russian military in the future.

Parents who tortured, killed 10-year-old UK-Pakistani girl appeal life terms

A UK court will hear appeals from Urfan Sharif and his wife, Beinash Batool, convicted of murdering their 10-year-old stepdaughter, Sara, after years of severe abuse. The case, which sparked outrage, revealed extensive injuries and neglect despite previous alerts to social services. The couple's sentences are being challenged, with the Solicitor General arguing for harsher penalties.

The Epic Dynastic Feud Behind the Arrest of the Former Philippine President

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Vice President Sara Duterte are embroiled in a political feud, escalating tensions as Duterte allegedly ordered a hit on Marcos amid corruption allegations against her. The conflict intensified with Rodrigo Duterte's arrest by the ICC for crimes against humanity related to his drug war. Sara's approval ratings have declined, and her political future is uncertain.

Trump’s $1.4 trillion tariff threat spurs companies to seek cover

Companies globally are strategizing to mitigate impacts from President Trump's tariffs, which affect $1.4 trillion in imports. While some, like Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly, plan to increase U.S. production, others, including Stellantis and Volkswagen, anticipate significant profit losses. The complexities of global supply chains complicate responses, leading many firms to establish "tariff task forces" to navigate uncertain costs and logistics.