Araghchi says Iran prepared for war as Tehran sets conditions for Hormuz reopening

Araghchi says Iran prepared for war as Tehran sets conditions for Hormuz reopening Iran does not rule out the possibility of renewed war with the United States and Israel and is prepared for “all scenarios”, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has…

Hong Kong man falls from luxury housing complex, striking domestic helper below

A Hong Kong man believed to have accidentally fallen from a height struck a domestic helper on the podium of a luxury housing estate in West Kowloon on Saturday, with the pair sent to hospital. Police said they received a report at 7.43pm that the…

Indonesia’s Gas Cut Shows Why Singapore Can’t Rely on Pipelines Alone

Indonesia’s Gas Cut Shows Why Singapore Can’t Rely on Pipelines Alone  Bloomberg.com

Thousands turn up for France protests amid tight security

Thousands turn up for France protests amid tight security  AFP.com

Iranian Strikes Caused At Least $5 Billion In Damage To U.S. Military Bases: WSJ

Iranian Strikes Caused At Least $5 Billion In Damage To U.S. Military Bases: WSJ  Yahoo News Singapore

More than 5,000 die from Ebola in DR Congo's deadliest outbreak

Government data shows that more than 10,000 people have contracted the rare virus.

DR Congo Ebola deaths top 5,000, cases recorded in other African nations

Deaths in the Democratic Republic of Congo’s (DRC’s) Ebola outbreak have topped 5,000 as the country grapples with the relentless spread of the disease and cases are recorded in other African countries, the latest government data on Saturday shows.…

New UK policy raises stakes for foreign bidders in military space market

New UK policy raises stakes for foreign bidders in military space market  SpaceNews

Chelsea beat Man United as Martinez sent off to pile pressure on Carrick

Goals from Morgan Rogers and Cole Palmer give Chelsea a 2-0 win over Manchester United in the Premier League.

Trump administration imposes new sanctions on Rwanda over war in Congo

Trump administration imposes new sanctions on Rwanda over war in Congo  The Washington Post

With Julian Sayin sidelined, it’s time for Ohio State’s defense to take center stage

With Julian Sayin sidelined, it’s time for Ohio State’s defense to take center stage  Land-Grant Holy Land

Evacuees from Russia-occupied city where residents ate weeds arrive in Ukraine

Residents left the devastated city on Friday following a ceasefire brokered by US First Lady Melania Trump.

‘Those children in Gaza are our children’: Macklemore finishes Free Palestine tour with sold-out London performance

‘Those children in Gaza are our children’: Macklemore finishes Free Palestine tour with sold-out London performance MEE staff on Sat, 10/31/2026 - 12:17 From Hozier and Kneecap in Dublin to Greta Thunberg and Arab Barghouti…

HKT says US order ‘ceased’ as firm reportedly agrees to exit American market

A leading Hong Kong telecommunications carrier has confirmed that an order requiring it to justify its operation in the United States has been ceased, after the company reportedly agreed to wind down its business under pressure from a US regulatory…

Top 5 highlights from a historically elite Cubs defense

Top 5 highlights from a historically elite Cubs defense  MLB.com

Iran FM says US outreach a ‘positive step’ as delegation in Qatar for talks

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi tells Al Jazeera Tehran doesn't rule out attack, is ‘prepared for all scenarios’.

Ethiopian PM puts ministers through military training

The prime minister has previously emphasised military preparedness as central to his government's ambitions.

Syria considering entry into Mecca defence pact, says foreign minister

Damascus 'evaluating' whether to join the alliance that binds Turkiye, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan.

Iran’s Supreme leader orders military to prepare for wider conflict across the Middle East

Iran’s Supreme leader orders military to prepare for wider conflict across the Middle East  London Business News

Iran’s supreme leader warns US, Israel against war

Iran’s supreme leader Mojtaba Khamenei on Saturday warned the United States and Israel against returning to war, according to a written statement, following threats from the Islamic republic’s foes of a possible resumption of strikes. “If the…

Asean News Headlines at 10pm on Saturday (Oct 31)

Asean News Headlines at 10pm on Saturday (Oct 31)  The Star

Former British Army chiefs warn of lack of urgency in defence spending plans

Former British Army chiefs warn of lack of urgency in defence spending plans  Nation.Cymru

China narrows the path to elite official training scheme for citizens graduating overseas

China is further narrowing access to a key government recruitment programme for overseas-educated graduates, limiting their pathways into the country’s civil service and party-state system. More than a dozen provincial-level regions, including…

Trooping the Colour security overhaul sparks concerns among military chiefs

Trooping the Colour security overhaul sparks concerns among military chiefs  Royal Central

(LEAD) Up to 125,000 gather in Seoul's Hongdae area on Halloween; 30,000 in Itaewon: data

SEOUL, Oct. 31 (Yonhap) -- Up to 125,000 people gathered in the bustling Hongdae...

‍!+【【4K】】 St. Andrew's v First State Military Academy Live Free

‍!+【【4K】】 St. Andrew's v First State Military Academy Live Free  Port of Rotterdam

'Heightened threat environment': Air defense systems deployed at Mar-a-Lago and airport

'Heightened threat environment': Air defense systems deployed at Mar-a-Lago and airport  WPBF

Israel voted for Israel: Why Gaza wasn’t on the ballot

Despite genocide, regional war and isolation, Israel's election revealed little appetite for political alternatives.

Israeli military activity is blocking Lebanon’s recovery as 300,000 remain displaced, UN says

Israeli military activity is blocking Lebanon’s recovery as 300,000 remain displaced, UN says  アラブニュース

Chinese archaeologists set for hi-tech excavations with AI and deep-sea robots

Chinese archaeologists are set for a hi-tech turn, with the latest five-year blueprint aiming to deploy AI and deep-sea robots to trace Chinese history, decipher the origins of East Asian humans and expand the country’s cultural soft power.…

Sir Keir Starmer: Europe can't rely on US to 'bankroll' defence, Dublin event told

Sir Keir Starmer: Europe can't rely on US to 'bankroll' defence, Dublin event told  BBC

Burnham opens door to formal apology for Britain’s slave trade

UK Prime Minister rules out financial reparations, despite longstanding Caribbean demands.

S. Korea's top diplomat discusses ties with German, Polish counterparts

SEOUL, Oct. 31 (Yonhap) -- South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Hyun met separately...

Asean needs to strengthen food supply chains amid geopolitical uncertainty and extreme weather, says Sabu

Asean needs to strengthen food supply chains amid geopolitical uncertainty and extreme weather, says Sabu  The Star

Soft power on display as China’s first lady Peng Liyuan hosts German counterpart

Chinese first lady Peng Liyuan hosted her German counterpart, Elke Budenbender, in Beijing on Friday for a tea reception in a bid to showcase Beijing’s soft power and foster closer bilateral ties. Peng stressed the rich cooperation with Germany in…

On the Norway-Russia border, the Sámi people face a growing divide

As Russia’s war in Ukraine reshapes this Arctic frontier, Sámi communities struggle to sustain cross-border traditions.

West Indies thrash Bangladesh by eight wickets in first Test in Mirpur

West Indies extended ‌their encouraging run in red-ball cricket with an emphatic eight-wicket victory ⁠over Bangladesh.

Ed Oliver’s return can help unlock Bills defense

Ed Oliver’s return can help unlock Bills defense  Yahoo Sports

Studios destroyed, traditions saved: Artists fight to save Sudan’s culture

Artists in Sudan are working to save culture and traditions amid the country's war.

EU Community of Practice 2026: Peace Mediation in the Age of Power Politics

EU Community of Practice 2026: Peace Mediation in the Age of Power Politics  European External Action Service (EEAS)

Chair of EU Military Committee visits Romania to discuss regional security and European defence readiness

Chair of EU Military Committee visits Romania to discuss regional security and European defence readiness  European External Action Service (EEAS)

Alaska’s two ‘Dan Sullivans’: How common is ballot stacking, does it work?

Same names on Alaska ballot triggered political firestorm in US, prompting a Justice Department investigation.

Wine and Dine Festival vendors report Halloween boost in sales and footfall

Vendors at Hong Kong’s Wine and Dine Festival reported a stronger turnout and signs of improving business on Saturday as the annual event entered the weekend, coinciding with Halloween celebrations and extended opening hours until 1am. Some…

New Yemen fighting displaces 290,000, says UN, with pregnant women at risk

A new outbreak in fighting in Yemen has forced tens of thousands of people from their homes.

Europe protests: France deploys 70,000 security personnel for third weekend of rallies

Europe protests: France deploys 70,000 security personnel for third weekend of rallies  CNA

From Mecca to the Moon: How Turkey is trying to become a player in space

From Mecca to the Moon: How Turkey is trying to become a player in space Areeb Ullah on Fri, 10/30/2026 - 14:57 As Turkey prepares its 2027 mission to the Moon, Ankara is navigating global rivalries and tapping…

Avenger Air Defense Missiles Deployed Near Trump’s Mar-a-Lago Resort

Avenger Air Defense Missiles Deployed Near Trump’s Mar-a-Lago Resort  Kyiv Post

Former rebel leader elected chief minister of Philippine Muslim region

Former Muslim rebel leader Abdulraof Macacua has been elected chief minister of the Philippines' Bangsamoro region.

Paris steps up security as police patrol streets

Paris steps up security as police patrol streets

Iran lawmakers call for withdrawal from NPT: Will we have war or peace?

Withdrawal from the nuclear treaty doses not mean that Iran would build a nuclear weapon, observers say.

US approves sale of 500 Patriot missiles to Ukraine

The American-made interceptors are the only effective weapon for downing Russia's ballistic missiles.

Aston Villa to sue ex-Liverpool star Carragher over ‘unacceptable insults’

Aston Villa chairman accuses ex-Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher of insulting the club, with legal action threatened.

Iran warns of unfettered retaliation if attacked as mediators try for peace

Iran’s supreme leader says Tehran’s potential response will not be restricted by geography.

UK PM Burnham ‘open’ to slavery apology, but not reparations

Prime Minister Andy Burnham said on Saturday he was “open” to the UK issuing a formal apology for its role in the transatlantic slave trade, but ruled out financial reparations. The Labour leader made the remarks days before attending a Commonwealth…

US Starts at 'Basically Zero' in Building Cheap Military Drones

US Starts at 'Basically Zero' in Building Cheap Military Drones  Bloomberg

Is Beijing’s 2027 military milestone now a US readiness deadline over Taiwan?

America’s push for 2027 combat readiness in the Indo-Pacific is raising questions over whether a year that US military officials linked to a possible People’s Liberation Army attack on Taiwan has instead become a planning benchmark. The preparations…

UN Western Sahara peacekeeping mission left in limbo after US-Russia veto standoff

UN Western Sahara peacekeeping mission left in limbo after US-Russia veto standoff MEE staff on Sat, 10/31/2026 - 09:49 The double veto blocked the Security Council's annual renewal of the mission, which it had routinely…

Khamenei orders immediate response to any threat 'without geographical limitations'

Khamenei orders immediate response to any threat 'without geographical limitations' Iran's Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei has ordered the country’s armed forces to deliver an "immediate, effective response without geographical limitations" to…

Anti-missile defenses installed to enhance Trump security at Mar-a-Lago, DJT International Airport

Anti-missile defenses installed to enhance Trump security at Mar-a-Lago, DJT International Airport  Sun Sentinel

Tributes paid to motorcyclist and Royal Navy veteran who died in motorway crash | ITV News

Tributes paid to motorcyclist and Royal Navy veteran who died in motorway crash | ITV News  ITVX

200 nations at Cop17 commit to biodiversity goals amid missed opportunities

Nearly 200 nations have struck hard-fought agreements at a UN biodiversity summit, but the outcome was accompanied by disappointment over missed opportunities to address humanity’s destructive toll on nature. Delegates cheered on Friday as crucial…

KBO asks MLB to post All-Star slugger Roh Si-hwan

SEOUL, Oct. 31 (Yonhap) -- The Korea Baseball Organization (KBO) announced Satur...

With ‘Kissinger moment’ over, US and China urged to foster new ‘bridge builders’

Beijing and Washington have been urged to foster a new generation of talent to bridge gaps between the countries and strengthen people-to-people exchanges amid growing frictions and concerns about a lack of China expertise in the US. Academics and…

Will the Bills' defense stop them from winning a Super Bowl?

Will the Bills' defense stop them from winning a Super Bowl?  ESPN

120,000 gather in Seoul's Hongdae area for Halloween; 20,000 in Itaewon: data

SEOUL, Oct. 31 (Yonhap) -- Up to 120,000 people gathered in the bustling Hongdae...

China places former Sinopec and CNOOC boss Fu Chengyu, 75, under corruption probe

Fu Chengyu, the former chairman of leading oil giants Sinopec and China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC), is under investigation for corruption by the country’s top watchdogs. The Communist Party’s Central Commission for Discipline…

Streeting says he began stockpiling food weeks ago amid rising threat to UK

Streeting says he began stockpiling food weeks ago amid rising threat to UK  The Guardian

Crypto exchanges rush to tighten security after $6.3bn Binance heist

Crypto exchanges rush to tighten security after $6.3bn Binance heist  Financial Times

(LEAD) Lee visits southeastern province to inspect pilot basic income scheme

SEOUL, Oct. 31 (Yonhap) -- President Lee Jae Myung visited a southeastern provin...

Hong Kong’s first ‘Halloween Month’ surges to a finale as revellers pack streets

Revellers packed Lan Kwai Fong dressed as golden Buddhas, Lipton tea drink cartons and bottles of ketchup and mustard, with bars expecting a business bump of more than 50 per cent as Hong Kong’s first “Halloween Month” roared to a close on Saturday.…

Mojtaba Khamenei issues ‘important and strategic orders’ to Iran’s military

Mojtaba Khamenei issues ‘important and strategic orders’ to Iran’s military Iran’s Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei has met senior commanders of the country’s armed forces and issued what his office described as “important and strategic…

The Sahel, a new front in the rivalry between Algeria and Morocco

The Sahel, a new front in the rivalry between Algeria and Morocco MEE correspondent on Fri, 10/30/2026 - 14:07 Rabat and Algiers are deploying competing strategies of influence in the region, as Sahelian states seek to…

Hong Kong may raise GDP forecast as growth could hit 5-year high: Paul Chan

Hong Kong’s annual economic growth may hit a five-year high, the finance chief has said, raising the possibility of an upward revision to the current forecast of 3.5 to 4.5 per cent for 2026. Financial Secretary Paul Chan Mo-po said on Saturday that…

As Trump fans the flames of a world on fire, can diplomacy take back control?

As Trump fans the flames of a world on fire, can diplomacy take back control?  The Guardian

Thailand's Chiang Mai named Southeast Asia's safest city

Chiang Mai is Southeast Asia's safest city, narrowly ahead of Singapore, according to the latest Safety Index compiled by online database Numbeo.

Mark Carney: Canada has 'learned we are overdependent on the US'

Mark Carney: Canada has 'learned we are overdependent on the US'  DW.com

Quantum Leap: Quantum Systems’ journey from ISR to full military neo-prime

Quantum Leap: Quantum Systems’ journey from ISR to full military neo-prime  Resilience Media

Vietnam's Independence Palace marks 60 years with rare exhibits revealing its four-year construction

Around 100 architectural drawings and photographs documenting more than four years of design and construction of the Independence Palace in Ho Chi Minh City are on display to mark the 60th anniversary of its inauguration on Oct. 31, 1966.

Giannis on the team’s chemistry and defense

Giannis on the team’s chemistry and defense  NBA.com

Lavrov says Poland 'contributes nothing' to G20, calls its invitation a breach of diplomacy

Lavrov says Poland 'contributes nothing' to G20, calls its invitation a breach of diplomacy  TVP World

Europe and Canada detail first measures after unprecedented rapprochement

Europe and Canada detail first measures after unprecedented rapprochement  Le Monde.fr

(LEAD) Samsung execs meet Open AI's Sam Altman to discuss AI transformation

SEOUL, Oct. 31 (Yonhap) -- Top executives from key Samsung affiliates met with O...

Trump touted a record Venezuela oil deal. Now reality is setting in

Delivering on the ambition falls to North American Blue Energy Partners, a little-known firm led by Venezuelan businessman Alejandro Betancourt.

U.S. blockade, sanctions crippling Iran's economy, Treasury report says

U.S. blockade, sanctions crippling Iran's economy, Treasury report says  Axios

Trump administration approves potential Patriot missiles sale to Ukraine

The approval comes after weeks of complaints by Ukrainian authorities that its supplies of the interceptor missiles were dwindling.

Who will blink first in latest US-Iran diplomacy efforts?

Who will blink first in latest US-Iran diplomacy efforts?  Al-Monitor

Pakistan military 'cautiously optimistic' on Iran-US mediation

Pakistan's chief mediator in its efforts to de-escalate the now eight-month-old Iran war has been to Tehran twice this month, most recently on Monday alongside Saudi and Turkish officials.

Oil spills from tankers attacked by Iran in Hormuz reach UAE coastline, report says

Oil spills from tankers attacked by Iran in Hormuz reach UAE coastline, report says Oil spills from tankers attacked by Iran near the Strait of Hormuz have reached the UAE coastline, prompting beach closures in three emirates and raising…

Trump Criticizes Russia Sanctions Calls, Citing Hubbard Release

Trump Criticizes Russia Sanctions Calls, Citing Hubbard Release  Kyiv Post

Minutes after sounding alert, Saudi civil defence says danger passes in Jazan

Minutes after sounding alert, Saudi civil defence says danger passes in Jazan The General Directorate of Saudi Civil Defense said that danger has passed in Jazan Province, minutes after announcing that a danger alert warning the province's…

Iran Completes Comprehensive Military Response Plan: Official

Iran Completes Comprehensive Military Response Plan: Official  تسنیم

Morning update

Morning update Good Morning Middle East Eye readers, If you are just joining us, here are key developments from across the region and beyond: *Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said that four oil tankers had caught fire and…

After Louvre heist and string of thefts, Europe’s smaller museums are on guard

Concerns are growing that criminals are increasingly targeting smaller institutions with fewer resources to protect valuable collections.

Scam centers relocated from Cambodia operate in Madagascar

Raids against online scam centers in Madagascar have exposed ties with a criminal group that ran similar operations in Cambodia.

Melaka state election: Anwar's PH, Muhyiddin's Bersatu avoid clashes in 4 seats as candidates confirmed

Analysts say Melaka could serve as a testing ground to see whether Bersatu can help Pakatan Harapan win over Malay voters ahead of Malaysia's next general election.

Israeli strike on Nuseirat refugee camp in central Gaza kills Palestinian

Israeli strike on Nuseirat refugee camp in central Gaza kills Palestinian An Israeli airstrike on Nuseirat refugee camp in central Gaza killed a Palestinian man, Diaa Abu al-Rous, according to Quds News Network (QNN). Another Palestinian,…

Palestinian man injured in Israeli strike on Gaza succumbs, report says

Palestinian man injured in Israeli strike on Gaza succumbs, report says A Palestinian man, Arafat al-Ar'eer, has succumbed to wounds sustained in an Israeli airstrike on the Tal al-Hawa neighbourhood, south of Gaza City, Quds News Network…

Saudi-led coalition forces intercept Houthi drone over Riyadh region

Saudi-led coalition forces intercept Houthi drone over Riyadh region Saudi-led coalition forces have intercepted and destroyed a drone over Riyadh region, according to Major General Turki al-Maliki, the spokesperson for the coalition. Hours…

Moroccan student's journey from knowing only the local words for 'hello' to becoming Vietnam's top maritime navigation graduate

After dropping out of medical school in France and isolating herself for seven months while struggling with depression, a Moroccan girl turned to Vietnam as a way out of her difficulties and went on to graduate as the top student in maritime…

Israeli air strikes target southern Lebanese town of Kfar Tebnit

Israeli air strikes target southern Lebanese town of Kfar Tebnit An Israeli air attack has targeted the town of Kfar Tebnit in the Nabatieh district, southern Lebanon, Al Jazeera reported. The Israeli military also continued demolitions and…

Actor from China’s Taiwan region praises the country’s public security as luxury bag recovered in 15 minutes

Actor from China’s Taiwan region praises the country’s public security as luxury bag recovered in 15 minutes  Global Times

Spain train disaster clouds Sánchez chances of re-election

The Spanish PM is hit by a succession of crises just weeks before a snap general election.

Doshisha chairman apologizes over fatal boat accident in Okinawa

Eiji Hatta, chairman of Doshisha's board of trustees, offered his "deepest condolences" at a news conference in Kyoto on Friday.

U.S., South Korea and Japan vow ‘complete’ denuclearization of North Korea

The joint pledge comes as Pyongyang continues to reject disarmament ahead of possible talks with Washington.

Palestinian journalist returns home after 15 months in Israeli detention

Palestinian journalist returns home after 15 months in Israeli detention Palestinian journalist Farah Abu Ayyash has returned home to her family following 450 days of detention in Israeli prisons, according to a report by the Islamic Republic…

Today in Korean history

Nov. 1

As Trump Unravels the Old World Order, Canada and EU Join Forces

As Trump Unravels the Old World Order, Canada and EU Join Forces  Bloomberg.com

ASEAN Defence Meetings Conclude with Transition from Philippines to Singapore

ASEAN Defence Meetings Conclude with Transition from Philippines to Singapore  INDiplomacy

King's College Wimbledon HCMC campus completes main structure ahead of 2027 opening

King's College Wimbledon Ho Chi Minh City has completed the main structure of its campus at The Global City, with construction scheduled to finish in the second quarter of 2027.

US, South Korea, Japan vow 'complete' North Korea denuclearisation

They also pledged "full implementation" of UN Security Council resolutions, including a ban on supporting revenue for North Korea's nuclear and ballistic missile programmes.

Lee says multicultural family support resulting in 'reverse discrimination' cannot be justified

SEOUL, Oct. 31 (Yonhap) -- President Lee Jae Myung renewed his call Saturday for...

Haze pollution costs Malaysia $1.9B, potentially claims 1,700 lives: report

Malaysia’s latest haze crisis is estimated to have caused RM8 billion (US$1.97 billion) in welfare losses and may have contributed to approximately 1,700 premature deaths, according to a newly released report.

Vietnamese American professor and wife shot dead by 31-year-old son, police say

A man has been charged with murdering his Vietnamese American father, an Oberlin College professor, and stepmother at their Ohio home.

Binance hack exposes unsolvable crypto risk: disappearing money

The $6.3 billion cryptocurrency heist shows that however sophisticated the fortifications, high-tech criminals are still finding a way in.

Crypto exchanges call for quick moves to bolster defenses after Binance heist

The $6.3 billion heist has exposed the vulnerabilities of crypto exchanges just as they become more embedded in mainstream finance.

‘Breath of fresh air’ truce brings hope to Ukraine’s ravaged Kherson

The Russian army seized Kherson in 2022 and occupied it for eight months before Kyiv's forces took back control.

Japan considers paying low-income workers ¥5,000 through benefit program

Under the program, a fixed amount is expected to be given to people in work who earn ¥1.19 million or less annually.

Foreign ministry says 3,600 sets of personal information may have been leaked

The records contained names and email addresses, including those of some 900 individuals not employed by the ministry.

Seven years after fire, Okinawa’s Shuri Castle inches away from reopening

Final preparations are underway to reopen the main hall of the castle next month.

The fight to save Canadian town threatened by Trump's tariffs

A century-old paper mill in Témiscaming, Quebec is indefinitely closed after the US imposed 50% tariffs on its products, putting hundreds out of work.

Japan demands release of national in meeting with Russia’s Lavrov

The rare high-level meeting between the two countries came amid strained ties over Ukraine and a long-running territorial dispute.

Ukraine’s Zelenskyy praises US over $2.1bn Patriot missile deal but warns it could take years

Ukraine’s Zelenskyy praises US over $2.1bn Patriot missile deal but warns it could take years  The Guardian

Japan pushes to remove Myanmar from global financial watchdog’s blacklist

The move is the latest sign that some major countries are looking to bring the pariah state's military-backed government in from the cold.

Why North Korea's 'elite' hackers are the prime suspect in major Binance hack

If the accusations are true, the record-making heist shows how powerful suspected North Korean hackers have become.

EU, Canada forge ‘alliance for the future’ at Montreal summit

EU, Canada forge ‘alliance for the future’ at Montreal summit  The Spokesman-Review

Fishing boat catches fire off west coast, all 22 rescued

INCHEON, Oct. 31 (Yonhap) -- A fishing boat caught fire off the Yellow Sea islan...

G20 talks expose deep rift as Russia stays defiant and Rubio engages Moscow

G20 talks expose deep rift as Russia stays defiant and Rubio engages Moscow  South China Morning Post

N. Korea slams multination statement backing anti-Pyongyang sanctions as 'strategic failure'

SEOUL, Oct. 31 (Yonhap) -- North Korea blasted Saturday a joint statement recent...

Hegseth faces bipartisan push for his ouster after midterms

Democrats and some Republicans plan to zero in on Hegseth as they seek accountability for U.S. President Donald Trump's war in Iran.

US judge pushes back on Trump arch ‘national security’ argument

US judge pushes back on Trump arch ‘national security’ argument  The Straits Times

Global nature talks reach deal but money remains an issue

Countries have been trying to get a global agreement to halt nature decline back on track.

No drug-related violations found in special crackdown on eve of Halloween

SEOUL, Oct. 31 (Yonhap) -- Police said Saturday they have found no drug-related ...

Symposium on the 10th Anniversary of the Colombian Peace Agreement - Part IV: Colombia’s Special Jurisdiction for Peace after its First Final Sentences: "Executing Restorative Sanctions and the Limits of International Oversight"

Symposium on the 10th Anniversary of the Colombian Peace Agreement - Part IV: Colombia’s Special Jurisdiction for Peace after its First Final Sentences: "Executing Restorative Sanctions and the Limits of International Oversight"  www.iconnectblog.com

Police deployed during stand-off over control of top Poland court

The escalation came after the government suspended two senior justices and moved to bring criminal charges against them.

Carney eyes June deal for Canada to become EU associate member as Trump reshapes alliances

Carney eyes June deal for Canada to become EU associate member as Trump reshapes alliances  WCAX

Ruling party lawmaker issued U.S. visa, days after refusal

SEOUL, Oct. 31 (Yonhap) -- Rep. Jin Sung-joon of the ruling Democratic Party (DP...

Washington’s foreign policy scramble to lower fuel prices

Washington’s foreign policy scramble to lower fuel prices  Defense Priorities

N. Korea reports on Swiss FM's visit following opening of diplomatic office

SEOUL, Oct. 31 (Yonhap) -- North Korean Foreign Minister Choe Son-hui met one-on...

(2nd LD) S. Korean, U.S., Japanese FMs reaffirm 'resolute commitment' to complete denuclearization of N. Korea

WASHINGTON, Oct. 30 (Yonhap) -- The top diplomats of South Korea, the United Sta...

Watch EU Foreign Policy Chief Warns Against Normalizing Russia

Watch EU Foreign Policy Chief Warns Against Normalizing Russia  Bloomberg.com

Top headlines in major S. Korean newspapers

SEOUL, Oct. 31 (Yonhap) -- The following are the top headlines in major South Ko...

Vietnam's largest airport Long Thanh to open on Dec 24 with up to 366 flights a week

Long Thanh International Airport is expected to open to commercial flights at midnight on Dec. 24, initially handling up to 366 flights a week, 322 of them domestic and 44 international.

Southeast Asian city ranks among world's top 3 for quality of life

The city state of Singapore ranks third globally for quality of life in the 2026 Global Cities Index by Oxford Economics, a U.K.-based independent economic research and consulting firm.

Chinese school dropout builds Green Goblin-style flying board and rides it across Asia's longest river

A 26-year-old Chinese man who quit school at 14 has flown a homemade electric board inspired by the Green Goblin's glider in "Spider-Man" across the Yangtze River in his home province of Hubei.

Wildfire smoke kills an estimated 3,560 in one month in Southeast Asia's largest economy

Smoke from forest and land fires across Indonesia caused an estimated 3,560 deaths in September, more than double the August figure, a Helsinki-based think tank said.

Defense finds turnovers but injuries prove too much to overcome

Defense finds turnovers but injuries prove too much to overcome  Carolina Panthers

Asean’s fashion trade faces new survival rules

Asean’s fashion trade faces new survival rules  The Business Times

European Union and Canada to form new alliance — but no associate membership yet

European Union and Canada to form new alliance — but no associate membership yet  Courthouse News

G20 'family photo' cancelled after protests over presence of Russian minister

UK Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband confronted his Russian counterpart at the meeting and accused his government of killing innocent civilians in Ukraine.

End of an era: Tracing Lee Biscuits' 92-year journey from Singapore to Johor

From Marie biscuits and cream crackers to colourful iced gems, Lee Biscuits' snacks were household staples for generations of Singaporeans and Malaysians. After 92 years, production is coming to an end.

Former NATO chief discusses Putin and Ukraine

Former NATO chief discusses Putin and Ukraine  CNN

North Korea says sanctions don't work to deny its status as nuclear weapons state

North Korea says sanctions don't work to deny its status as nuclear weapons state  Reuters

Crypto giant Binance attempting to recover $6.3bn stolen in hack linked to North Korea

The cyber-attack, which the company describes as complex, is believed to be the largest ever of its kind.

Carney Commits Canada to Becoming European Union’s First ‘Associate Member’

Carney Commits Canada to Becoming European Union’s First ‘Associate Member’  The New York Times

They strangled us, says founder of Russian newspaper shut under pressure from authorities

Novaya Gazeta has been one of the most high-profile independent news outlets in Russia over the last three decades.

US greenlights 500 Patriot missiles for Ukraine, with $2.1 billion to be paid by allies

US greenlights 500 Patriot missiles for Ukraine, with $2.1 billion to be paid by allies  Breaking Defense

US tech stocks see sharp falls as AI spending nears $1tn

Shares in Intel continue to fall while the tech-heavy Nasdaq opens at its lowest level in more than two months.

Carney Sets Target for Canada Becoming E.U.'s First 'Associate' Member

Carney Sets Target for Canada Becoming E.U.'s First 'Associate' Member  Time Magazine

EU and Canada seek deeper ties amid worsening global uncertainty

EU and Canada seek deeper ties amid worsening global uncertainty  Al Jazeera

Canada and EU announce new alliance open to like-minded countries

Alliance for the Future, unveiled at Montreal summit and open to other countries, conceived for world ‘shaken by new storms’ Canada and Europe have announced a new alliance of like-minded nations to serve as both a “protective canopy under which our…

Canada is taking steps toward becoming European Union's first associate member

Canada is taking steps toward becoming European Union's first associate member  PBS

US approves $2.1 billion Patriot missile sale to Ukraine

US approves $2.1 billion Patriot missile sale to Ukraine  Reuters

Fire Devastated a Mongolian Nature Reserve. Who’s to Blame?

The fire in Numrug touches on cross-border capital compliance risks and geopolitical changes impacting Northeast Asia’s ecology.

Hong Kong’s Deadly 2025 Fire: Accountability on Lee’s Terms

A ministerial resignation, official apologies, and promises of reform leave a fundamental question unanswered: What power do Hong Kong citizens have to demand accountability beyond what their government is willing to offer?

‘Open the hives’ — Why France is turning tank gunners into FPV pilots

Cpl. Igor started a new job this year, swapping the sights of a 105 mm gun on the French Army's AMX 10 RC reconnaissance vehicle for first-person view goggles and a handheld controller.

How crypto hacking funds isolated North Korea’s nuclear programme

Cryptocurrency theft is estimated to generate half of the country’s foreign currency income North Korea plays by its own rules. The isolated, secretive and autocratic country is largely cut off from the world’s economic system – but when it comes to…

On a Remote Island, Japan Puts Its Deep-Sea Mining Ambitions on Display

Experts argue that Japan’s rush to exploit rare-earth mud from the sea floor near Minamitorishima is driven less by resources than by the political value of being seen to use the island.

Will Islamic Finance Expand Financial Inclusion in Uzbekistan?

Does removing a religious objection make financing accessible and affordable?

US inmate Christa Pike says she woke up 'confused and in pain' after failed execution

It is Pike's first public statement since she survived an execution attempt by lethal injection in September.

Japan-Taiwan Relations Enter ‘Deep Waters.’ Will They Sink or Swim?

Economic, technological, and societal ties between the two sides have never been stronger, yet political constraints are becoming more and more visible.

Joint statement EU-Canada summit, 30 October 2026

Joint statement EU-Canada summit, 30 October 2026  Council, European Union

From tanks to space, Norway and Germany forge ahead with ‘Hansa’ defense pact

German tank maker KNDS and Norway’s Ritek have begun producing Leopard 2A8 tanks in Norway, adding a land-based industrial foothold to a security partnership spanning submarines, missiles and military operations in Europe’s north.

Pentagon eyes 'public-private partnerships' to help fund FORTRESS America homeland base plan

Pentagon eyes 'public-private partnerships' to help fund FORTRESS America homeland base plan  Breaking Defense

What Tokayev’s Economic Agenda Means for Kazakhstan’s International Partnerships

The Kazakh president’s insistence that public spending mobilize private capital, rather than substitute for it, gives the initiative an international dimension.

Ukraine completes work on new missile defense system, awaits European partner components

Ukraine has completed its share of Freyja, the multinational antiballistic shield that Europe and Kyiv are racing to bring together.

Pope Leo XIV becomes first pontiff to vote in a US election

The Chicago-born pontiff, who has a tense relationship with Trump, mailed in a ballot for the midterm elections that will decide control of the US Congress.

EOS Defense Systems Prepares to Build Slinger Counter-Drone Systems

EOS Defense Systems discusses plans for U.S. production of its Slinger counter-drone system, AI-assisted targeting and adjustable levels of autonomy.

India’s China+1 Dilemma: It May Need China to Depend Less on China

India wants to rely less on China. Interviews with executives and policymakers suggest that whether Chinese firms take part matters less than what India gets for letting them.

‘Amateur morons’: Flávio Bolsonaro’s short-lived ‘president-elect’ claim met with mockery

Brazilian media ridicule defeated candidate over ‘shameful’ absconsion to US and bizarre letter with wrong coat of arms Flávio Bolsonaro had hoped that by Sunday night people would be calling him the next president of Brazil. Instead, the far-right…

Pakistan’s Trump Bet Meets the US Midterms

The weeks after November 3 will test whether Pakistan’s moment in Washington was a strategy or a stroke of luck.

European Commission Proposes Targeted Delays to EU Methane Regulation Requirements

European Commission Proposes Targeted Delays to EU Methane Regulation Requirements  Environment, Land & Resources

Secretary-General of ASEAN delivers video message at the 2026 ASEAN-China Cooperation and Development Conference on Food and Agriculture

Secretary-General of ASEAN delivers video message at the 2026 ASEAN-China Cooperation and Development Conference on Food and Agriculture  ASEAN Main Portal

Australia Raises Student Visa Costs and Cuts Working Holiday Maker Slots

To placate those drifting off toward One Nation, the government saw a couple of easy targets in international student and working holiday makers to signal that it was “doing something” about immigration.

Amid India–China Border Tensions, Mega Hydel Project in Arunachal Pradesh Faces Local Heat

Locals are protesting India’s plans to construct a hydropower project on the Siang River. Delhi says the project is important for national security.

India orders top drugmaker to halt eye medicine production at plant over quality lapses

Indian regulators have escalated action against India's largest drugmaker, Sun Pharma, barring ophthalmic drug production at its Assam factory until it submits a satisfactory compliance report.

‘People’s Republic of the Disappeared’: Stories of Horror But Also Resilience

“Residential surveillance at a designated location” – a form of enforced disappearance – is becoming a go-to tool for the CCP, as a new book details.

China Owes Climate Accountability to South Asia

Beijing’s responsibility stems not only from its massive contribution to global gas emissions, but also from its capability as a green technology provider and its position as an upstream actor.

Six feared dead in helicopter crash in Indian Himalayan state

The helicopter was flying from Badrinath, a prominent pilgrimage destination for Hindus located in the mountains, to Dehradun city, carrying five passengers and a pilot.

Beijing Queer film festival cancelled after harassment from authorities

Forums for discussion of feminist and LGBTQ+ views face growing intolerance from Chinese state, say experts Beijing’s annual independent queer film festival has been cancelled after what is understood to have been a campaign of sustained harassment…

Pentagon tells Europeans to cool their rhetoric on Russia, sources say

Pentagon officials have in recent weeks asked several NATO countries to tone down their rhetoric regarding the threat posed by Russia, sources told Reuters.

Severe rainfall and flood warnings issued for central Greece and western Turkey

Turkey has been hit by powerful thunderstorms and a fatal tornado this week with more heavy rain expected Heavy rain and strong winds will continue to affect parts of south-eastern Europe and Turkey over the next few days, as an area of low pressure…

Statement of ASEAN Ministers on Agriculture and Forestry (AMAF) on Advancing Regenerative and Resilient Agriculture for Sustainable and Food-Secure ASEAN

Statement of ASEAN Ministers on Agriculture and Forestry (AMAF) on Advancing Regenerative and Resilient Agriculture for Sustainable and Food-Secure ASEAN  ASEAN Main Portal

Thailand extends activist's jail term to more than 34 years

China conducts combat readiness patrols around disputed shoal in South China Sea

China said that the patrols were a "necessary countermeasure in response to the Philippines' rights-violation and provocative acts".

Can the US Defense Industry Keep Pace with China’s Military Machine?

A quarterly index offers a way to find out.

South Korea's foreign residents hit record 2.66 million as international student numbers soar

South Korea's foreign resident population climbed past 2.66 million in 2025, or more than one in 20 people in the country, as the number of international students surged.

Singapore tailor becomes first non-Italian to win Italian bespoke tailoring trophy

Singapore tailor Javin Tan beat 23 rivals in Naples with a sailing-inspired suit to become the first non-Italian to win Italy's Trofeo Arbiter.

Foreign employers in Vietnam face new hiring duties from November

Several new rules on recruitment and management of Vietnamese working for foreign entities and individuals in Vietnam will take effect from November.

2026 Mid-Year ASEAN Energy News Highlights

2026 Mid-Year ASEAN Energy News Highlights  ASEAN Centre for Energy

Philippines raises volcano alert level as blast sends ash skyward

Authorities called for evacuations within 6km of the crater.

Cautious Hope For Mekong’s Irrawaddy Dolphins Amid a River in Crisis

Despite illegal fishing and the construction of hydropower dams, attempts to conserve the sacred dolphin are beginning to bear fruit.

Why Is the Pentagon Asking European Allies to Tone Down Their Warnings About Russia?

Why Is the Pentagon Asking European Allies to Tone Down Their Warnings About Russia?  Modern Diplomacy

What Women in Indonesia and Malaysia Want From Research on Climate and Health

Women's knowledge and perspectives can strengthen the relevance and contextual grounding of climate-health research and policy action.

Sinkholes, scarred land and scapegoats: the scourge of illegal gold mining in Johannesburg

There is no end in sight for the drivers of illegal mining, while police action appears ineffective Cora Bailey has been encountering illegal miners ever since she first started treating injured animals in the townships around Roodepoort, west of…

Sudanese diaspora and human rights groups denounce UAE nominee for UN top job

Critics cite Lana Nusseibeh’s denial of accusations the UAE is fuelling Sudan war by supporting paramilitary RSF Members of the Sudanese diaspora and international human rights monitors have denounced the candidature of an Emirati diplomat for the…

Bhutan glacial lake outburst triggers flood, no injuries reported

The historic Punakha Dzong has been closed until further notice "in the interest of public safety".

Muhyiddin says agreement to support Anwar on key parliamentary votes unrelated to Melaka polls

Six Bersatu lawmakers signed the agreement committing to support Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s unity government, where PH is the largest coalition, through to the end of the current parliamentary term.

ASEAN envoy meets Myanmar minister, discusses civil war and aid access

Philippine Foreign Secretary Ma Teresa Lazaro met Myanmar counterpart Tin Maung Swe in the capital Naypyitaw on Thursday (Oct 29).

Nvidia's Huang says dealings with firm in US spy probe were 'normal' as China denies allegations

Jensen Huang said Nvidia's relationship with Singapore-based Megaspeed International officials was proper and the company had checked that Megaspeed did not illegally divert Nvidia artificial intelligence (AI) chips to China.

China expels a record number from Communist party amid Xi’s intensified purges of top officials

The unprecedented number of empty seats at the fifth plenum – a symbol of expulsions – serve as a symbol for the scale of the purges under Xi Jinping China expelled a record number of officials from the Chinese Communist party (CCP) as it concluded…

South Korea seeks criminal charges, 3-year exam ban for cheating with AI glasses

Authorities are stepping up efforts to tackle cheating involving the devices following a series of incidents this year.

FORTRESS plan to harden US military bases: What to know

FORTRESS plan to harden US military bases: What to know  NewsNation

El Niño-driven drought in Papua New Guinea a ‘national crisis’ as rivers dry up and local farms fail

As many as 8 million people have been affected by food shortages, electricity blackouts and health clinic closures Extreme drought driven by an historic El Niño is affecting as many as 8 million people in Papua New Guinea, causing a cascade of…

North Korea displays drones, missiles as Kim urges AI weapons push

South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said its military detected "around a dozen short-range ballistic missiles fired from the Wonsan area of North Korea towards the East Sea", also known as the Sea of Japan.

Russian teacher slaps two second graders, grabs another by the neck in Vietnamese classroom

A Russian teacher slapped two second graders and grabbed another by the neck, lifting the child out of class, during an English lesson at a private school in the Mekong Delta city of Can Tho.

Singaporean tourist bears permanent scars as Hong Kong teen gets 8 years for $1,200 acid attack

A Hong Kong court sentenced a triad-linked teenager to eight years in prison on Oct. 29 for throwing acid on a Singaporean tourist in return for a promised HK$10,000 (US$1,270).

Defence contracts to prioritise British jobs and skills

Defence contracts to prioritise British jobs and skills  GOV.UK

Hasty US exit from Europe could drive allies away from American arms, RAND says

A rapid, uncoordinated U.S. military drawdown from Europe could push key NATO allies further away from American weapons, a RAND study found.

Pentagon urges NATO allies to tone down warnings about Russia, report says

Pentagon urges NATO allies to tone down warnings about Russia, report says  Stars and Stripes

Assistant Secretary Says New Infrastructure Initiatives Are a 'National Calling'

Assistant Secretary Says New Infrastructure Initiatives Are a 'National Calling'  U.S. Department of War (.gov)

Europe’s Defense Dilemma

Europe’s Defense Dilemma  Council on Foreign Relations

Concacaf Disciplinary Committee Issues Sanctions Following Nations League Between Guatemala and Suriname

Concacaf Disciplinary Committee Issues Sanctions Following Nations League Between Guatemala and Suriname  Concacaf | Official Website

Pentagon investigates suspected cyberattack behind military freezer failures

Pentagon investigates suspected cyberattack behind military freezer failures  Nextgov/FCW

Hegseth fires the Pentagon's top military planner even as Trump considers new Iran strikes

Hegseth fires the Pentagon's top military planner even as Trump considers new Iran strikes  PBS

Pentagon plans for death of Trump’s record military budget

Pentagon plans for death of Trump’s record military budget  Politico

New tactical comms system for US ground troops aims to break network silos

"We've spent the past 50 years building siloed networks, siloed applications and siloed environments to collaborate internally with our own data. We can no longer do that," a Pentagon official said.

Record deployment for destroyer USS Spruance casts doubt over US Navy maintenance

The Arleigh-Burke class destroyer USS Spruance has set a post-World War II record for a U.S. Navy destroyer deployment and is raising questions about the maintenance work that could follow its eventual return.

Senior US general fired, accused of leaking classified information

U.S. Army Lt. Gen. Brett Sylvia, a senior military planner on the Pentagon's Joint Staff, was fired over accusations he leaked classified information to the public.

Hong Kong’s leader apologises for residential fire that killed 168 people

Blaze was world’s deadliest residential fire since 1980, but some survivors and bereaved families say justice has yet to be served Hong Kong’s leader has apologised for government shortcomings that contributed to a fire that killed 168 people in the…

At pivotal summit, Canadian-European security cooperation is a central focus

The proposed measures would advance a broader strategic partnership that calls for Canada and Europe to assume greater responsibility for shared security while reinforcing NATO.

Cuts like a knife: Canadian rocker Bryan Adams trolls Trump with new song

Musician wrote a ‘love letter’ to Canada with a new album – and some pointed commentary about the US president Lake Ontario, the vast body of water that straddles the US-Canada border, has gone by many names over the centuries: Lac Saint-Louis,…

Brazil’s victory for the planet and democracy: seven lessons from Lula’s win

The trouncing of the far right provides a playbook for social and environmental movements in other countries facing elections, including the US, Spain and France Thank you, Brazil, for demonstrating how the far right can be trounced while…

Royal Navy service honours Queen Elizabeth II with laying up of Colours

Royal Navy service honours Queen Elizabeth II with laying up of Colours  Royal Navy