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Trump Hits Record-High Economic Disapproval As Prices Soar A new Yahoo/YouGov poll shows 60% of Americans disapprove of how President Donald Trump is handling the economy — his worst rating on the issue since returning to the White House. Only 33% approve, marking a steep fall from his earlier reputation as a strong economic manager. The survey of 1,770 U.S. adults, conducted between Oct. 23 and 27, comes amid a deepening government shutdown and growing public unease over rising prices and job security. The Congressional Budget Office now estimates the shutdown could cost the economy $14 billion, while the Federal Reserve has cut interest rates for the second time this year to calm markets. Trump, who won in 2024 on promises to “end inflation on day one,” is facing mounting frustration from voters across party lines. 56% of Americans say the economy is getting worse — a jump of 9 points since March — while just 20% think it’s improving. Grocery prices remain a flashpoint: 76% of respondents say they’re still climbing, up 10 points since spring, with only 7% reporting any relief. The pessimism cuts across the political spectrum. The share of Democrats who think the economy is worsening rose from 81% to 88% in a month; among independents, from 58% to 63%; and among Republicans, from 16% to 20% — a rare sign of bipartisan economic anxiety. The poll also follows Trump’s decision to end trade talks and impose fresh tariffs on Canada, moves that rattled markets and strained cross-border supply chains. Analysts warn the combination of tariffs, shutdown fallout, and weak consumer confidence could stall growth heading into 2026. For Trump, who built his political brand on economic prowess, the numbers signal a serious credibility test — and a warning that his core selling point with voters may be slipping away. Key Takeaways: 60% of Americans disapprove of Trump’s economic management — a record high. Only 20% think the economy is improving; grocery prices remain a top concern. Disapproval rises across party lines amid shutdown fallout and new tariffs. Source: Yahoo News

Trump Slashes Refugee Cap To Record Low, Favors White South Africans The Trump administration has announced a record-low refugee admissions cap of 7,500 for the coming year — a dramatic cut from the 125,000 allowed under President Biden — with priority given to white South Africans, primarily Afrikaners. The policy, published Thursday in the Federal Register, says the allocations will go “primarily” to Afrikaner South Africans and “other victims of illegal or unjust discrimination.” No detailed justification was provided beyond vague references to “humanitarian concerns” and “the national interest.” The move follows Trump’s January executive order suspending the US Refugee Admissions Program (USRAP) to “prioritise national security and public safety.” His previous administration had already set the lowest-ever ceiling in 2020 at 15,000 refugees. Trump’s new policy has ignited global outrage. Human rights groups accused the White House of turning refugee protection into an ideological weapon. “This decision lowers our moral standing,” said Krish O’Mara Vignarajah, CEO of Global Refuge. Refugees International called it “a mockery of refugee protection and American values.” The decision comes after months of tension between Washington and Pretoria. In February, Trump expelled South Africa’s ambassador, Ebrahim Rasool, who accused the US president of “mobilising a supremacism” after Trump offered resettlement to white South Africans. At a fiery Oval Office meeting in May, Trump confronted South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa, claiming white farmers were being “killed and persecuted.” The White House even showed footage of farm-cross memorials — later revealed to be protest scenes rather than evidence of systematic killings. Despite Trump’s insistence, official South African statistics show no evidence of genocide or targeted persecution of white farmers. Of the 7,000 murders recorded between October and December 2024, just 12 occurred in farm attacks — only one of the victims was a farmer. The policy’s critics warn that it effectively shuts America’s doors to refugees from crisis zones such as Afghanistan, Venezuela, or Sudan, while rewarding a politically symbolic — and overwhelmingly white — group. The South African government has not yet issued a formal response to the announcement. Key Takeaways: Trump caps refugee admissions at 7,500 — lowest in US history. Priority given to white South Africans, sparking accusations of racial bias. Human rights groups warn the move undermines US credibility and refugee protection. Source: BBC

Fergie Cast Out As Andrew Loses His Prince Title In Royal Purge Sarah Ferguson Sarah Ferguson has been evicted from Royal Lodge alongside her disgraced ex-husband, as King Charles formally stripped Prince Andrew of his title and honours — marking the final act in a royal scandal that has dragged on for years. Ferguson, 65, who had lived with Andrew since 2008 despite their 1996 divorce, will now make her own housing arrangements. The shamed former Duke of York, meanwhile, will move into a property on the private Sandringham estate, his future accommodation said to be personally funded by the King. A palace statement confirmed the unprecedented move: “His Majesty has today initiated a formal process to remove the Style, Titles and Honours of Prince Andrew.” The notice ends Andrew’s decades-long lease on Royal Lodge, with the monarch personally ordering that he surrender the residence. Andrew will henceforth be known simply as Andrew Mountbatten Windsor. His daughters, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie, will retain their royal titles under the 1917 Letters Patent of King George V. The decision, made solely by the King and his advisers, follows weeks of revelations — including newly leaked emails showing Andrew reassuring convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein that “we are in this together” after he claimed to have cut ties with him. The bombshell message, written under his now-lost signature “HRH The Duke of York, KG,” has reignited fury over his credibility and past denials. Adding to the scandal, excerpts from Virginia Giuffre’s posthumous memoir Nobody’s Girl surfaced this week, describing Andrew as “entitled” and detailing alleged encounters when she was 17. The royal had previously paid millions in an out-of-court settlement while continuing to deny her claims. Buckingham Palace insisted the measures were “necessary,” even as Andrew professed his innocence in a statement acknowledging that his case had become a “distraction” from the work of the Royal Family. As the palace attempts to contain the fallout, insiders say the King remains determined to protect Beatrice and Eugenie while closing the chapter on his brother’s disgraced legacy once and for all. Key Takeaways: Sarah Ferguson evicted from Royal Lodge as Prince Andrew loses all titles. King Charles personally orders the removal of Andrew’s honours and lease. New Epstein-linked emails and Virginia Giuffre’s memoir trigger royal reckoning. Source: Daily Mail

Democrats Waver As Shutdown ‘D-Day’ Nears, Eyes Turn To GOP Bill Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer Democrats are showing signs of cracking as pressure mounts to end the weeks-long government shutdown, with key senators now weighing whether to support the Republican stopgap measure that would reopen the government and pay furloughed workers. Publicly, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and party leaders have vowed not to cave on healthcare demands, insisting President Donald Trump return to the negotiating table. But behind closed doors, frustration is mounting. “In the conference, nobody wants to be shut down,” one Democratic senator admitted. “We’ve heard from unions and families worried about food assistance running out. This can’t go on.” The GOP plan — spearheaded by Senator Ron Johnson — would pay all federal employees, including those furloughed, for the 29 days the government has been shuttered. Democrats including Mark Kelly and Tim Kaine say they’ll review the proposal, while Bernie Sanders has pledged to “look at the details” before the November 1 “D-Day,” when SNAP benefits are set to expire for millions of Americans. Republicans, meanwhile, appear ready to test Democrats’ resolve. Senate GOP leader John Thune told The Hill he may bring Speaker Mike Johnson’s bill to the floor within days, calling it “very possible” that furloughed federal employees will soon be paid. The standoff has become a political staring contest, with both parties fearing backlash from voters and unions as the shutdown stretches into its second month. Key Takeaways: Democrats privately consider backing Republican shutdown bill to reopen government. GOP proposal would pay all federal workers, not just essential staff. SNAP benefits run out Nov. 1, piling pressure on lawmakers to act. Inspired by: Express US

Why did Trump Order a re start to Nuclear Tests President Donald Trump has announced that the United States will restart nuclear weapons testing, overturning more than three decades of American policy and rattling global nonproliferation efforts. In a Truth Social post hours before meeting China’s Xi Jinping, Trump said he had directed the “Department of War to start testing our Nuclear Weapons on an equal basis” with rival powers, claiming the process would begin “immediately.” The move marks a dramatic shift from the 1992 moratorium that ended America’s era of atomic detonations. The announcement comes as Russia, China, and North Korea expand their nuclear capabilities. Moscow this week confirmed testing its Burevestnik “Skyfall” cruise missile, while Beijing continues building silo fields, and Pyongyang unveiled a new intercontinental missile. Experts warn that any U.S. resumption could trigger a new global arms race, undermining decades of arms control and diplomatic progress. “A U.S. test could set off an uncontrolled chain of events,” cautioned the Bulletin of Atomic Scientists, “with other countries responding in kind.” Since 1945, the U.S. has conducted 1,030 nuclear tests, the most of any nation. The last — codenamed “Divider” — was carried out in 1992 at the Nevada Test Site. Any new tests would likely occur there, though analysts note the facilities would need years of restoration before detonation could resume. Trump’s declaration also raised bureaucratic confusion: nuclear testing falls under the Energy Department, not the Pentagon. The White House has not clarified which agency will carry out the order. Key Takeaways: Trump orders restart of U.S. nuclear testing after 33-year halt. Move comes amid renewed atomic brinkmanship by Russia, China, and North Korea. Experts warn it could ignite a new nuclear arms race and global backlash. Source: Associated Press

Louvre Heist Deepens: Five More Suspects Seized In €88m Jewel Raid French police have arrested five more suspects, including a key figure, in connection with the audacious €88 million jewel heist at the Louvre, prosecutors confirmed Thursday. The arrests, made overnight in the Paris region, mark a major breakthrough in the investigation into what’s being called one of the boldest museum robberies in modern French history. Prosecutor Laure Beccuau said DNA evidence links at least one suspect to the crime scene, with AFP reporting that the man is believed to be part of the four-person team that stormed the Louvre’s Apollon Gallery on October 19. The group used a stolen vehicle-mounted lift and power tools to access the balcony, smash open display cases, and flee within four minutes — all captured on CCTV. Authorities believe the criminal network behind the heist is larger than those who physically carried out the robbery. Two men in their thirties were arrested last week — one caught trying to board a one-way flight to Algeria. Both have criminal records and reportedly confessed to partial involvement. No museum staff are suspected of complicity, Beccuau confirmed. No violence was used during the theft, but the stolen French crown jewels — valued at over $100 million — remain missing. In response, the Louvre has moved its remaining treasures to the Bank of France’s underground vault, tightening security at cultural institutions nationwide. Key Takeaways: Five new arrests made in €88m Louvre jewel heist; main suspect among them. DNA evidence links one man directly to the crime scene. French crown jewels remain missing as authorities widen investigation. Original Source: BBC

Apocalypse Jamaica Island, Record-Breaking Hurricane aftermath Jamaica lies in ruins after Hurricane Melissa, the most powerful storm to hit the island in living memory, tore across the Caribbean with winds of 185 mph and torrential rain that left entire towns flattened and thousands of tourists stranded. New aerial images show obliterated homes, submerged streets, and entire coastal communities wiped out as the Category 5 monster storm ripped through Jamaica’s western parishes. Prime Minister Andrew Holness said up to 90% of roofs were destroyed in the Black River region, while hospitals, libraries, and police stations were “obliterated.” At least five people are confirmed dead in Jamaica’s St. Elizabeth parish, with the death toll rising to 25 in neighboring Haiti. Three-quarters of Jamaica remains without electricity as flooding and landslides cut off roads, isolating communities from rescue efforts. Residents describe scenes of terror as Melissa roared ashore Tuesday evening. “I just heard a sound, and the roof started to tear off,” said George “Larry” Brown, 68. “Gilbert is no match to this.” His neighbor Kayan Davis said her roof lifted into the air before midnight: “I have nowhere to sleep.” Meteorologists say Melissa tied the 1935 Labor Day Hurricane as the most intense Atlantic storm to make landfall, matching its devastating pressure levels. By Wednesday night, it had battered Cuba and Haiti and was tracking toward the Bahamas and Bermuda, leaving a trail of catastrophic loss across the Caribbean. Key Takeaways: Historic Destruction: Hurricane Melissa is the strongest storm ever to hit Jamaica, with 185 mph winds. Widespread Devastation: Up to 90% of homes in some areas destroyed; power out across 75% of the island. Regional Impact: At least 30 dead across the Caribbean as the storm moves toward Bermuda. Source: [Daily Mail / AFP / Jamaica Gleaner]

Is Prince William Becoming King In Slow Power Shift — ‘Diana Saw It Coming’ If Prince William formally becomes King in what insiders are calling an extraordinary royal power grab — a move that has reportedly stunned senior royals and fulfilled what Princess Diana once predicted about her son’s destiny. The abrupt transition, revealed by Daily Mail+, suggests William is not merely “acting as King” but has fully assumed the throne — sidelining Queen Camilla, Prince Andrew, and even the Sussexes in a dramatic reshuffle of royal authority. Palace insiders described the shift as “swift, decisive, and absolute,” while commentators noted that the move consolidates power around the Wales family and signals “a new, streamlined monarchy.” The report claims Diana foresaw her eldest son’s ascent under extraordinary circumstances, once telling confidants that William “would be the one to save the monarchy from itself.” Details of how and when the transition occurred remain murky, but sources say William’s elevation has already “sent shockwaves through the royal household,” with Andrew, Camilla, Harry, and Meghan all said to be “reeling” from the development. If confirmed, it would mark one of the most sudden power handovers in modern royal history — and potentially the end of the Charles era far sooner than anyone expected. Key Takeaways: Power Shift: Prince William is now King, in what insiders call a “shock coronation.” Royal Fallout: Camilla, Andrew, Harry, and Meghan are said to be “stunned and sidelined.” Prophetic Twist: Princess Diana reportedly predicted William would one day rescue the monarchy. Source: Daily Mail+

Judge Rules Trump’s California U.S. Attorney Has Been ‘Unlawfully Serving’ A federal judge has ruled that Bilal Essayli, President Donald Trump’s handpicked U.S. attorney for the Central District of California, has been unlawfully holding office since July — marking the third time in as many months a court has struck down one of Trump’s acting federal prosecutor appointments. In a 64-page decision issued Tuesday, U.S. District Judge J. Michael Seabright said Essayli “may not perform the functions and duties of the United States Attorney” because his interim term expired and he was never confirmed by the Senate. The Central District — the nation’s largest federal jurisdiction — covers seven counties including Los Angeles, Orange, and Riverside. “Essayli is disqualified from serving in that role,” Seabright wrote, though he declined to void the indictments and prosecutions Essayli oversaw, noting that other authorized government attorneys had signed the filings. Essayli dismissed the ruling’s impact, writing on X: “Nothing is changing. I continue serving as the top federal prosecutor … It’s an honor to serve President Trump and Attorney General Bondi.” The decision is the latest rebuke to Trump’s Justice Department, which has repeatedly tried to bypass the 120-day limit on interim U.S. attorney appointments. Similar rulings have hit Trump’s picks in Nevada and New Jersey, with another challenge pending next month against Virginia’s acting U.S. attorney Lindsey Halligan — who led recent prosecutions of former FBI Director James Comey and New York Attorney General Letitia James. The White House did not respond to requests for comment. Key Takeaways: Unlawful Service: Judge Seabright ruled Trump appointee Bilal Essayli cannot legally act as U.S. attorney in California. Pattern of Violations: Courts have already found Trump’s acting U.S. attorneys in Nevada and New Jersey unlawfully appointed. Political Fallout: Upcoming challenge targets Lindsey Halligan, who charged James Comey and Letitia James in high-profile Trump-era cases. Source: NBC News

North Korea Fires Cruise Missiles Hours Before Trump Arrives In Seoul North Korea launched sea-to-surface cruise missiles into its western waters just hours before U.S. President Donald Trump landed in South Korea, in a move widely seen as a calculated show of force during his Asia-Pacific diplomatic tour. State media outlet KCNA said Tuesday’s test demonstrated the regime’s “expanded operational scope” and confirmed the new missiles were capable of carrying nuclear warheads. The weapons reportedly flew for more than two hours before striking their target. “It is our responsible mission and duty to ceaselessly toughen the nuclear combat posture,” said Pak Jong-chon, vice chairman of North Korea’s Central Military Commission. South Korea’s military has not yet confirmed whether it detected the launches. The timing of the test—hours before Trump’s summit with South Korean President Lee Jae Myung in Gyeongju—appears designed to seize global attention and underline Pyongyang’s growing alignment with Moscow. Kim Jong Un’s foreign minister, Choe Son-hui, was in Moscow this week meeting Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov to “accelerate multifaceted bilateral relations,” according to a joint statement. Trump, now on his first Asia tour since returning to the White House, has expressed openness to another meeting with Kim despite the latest provocation. “I’d love to meet with him if he’d like to meet,” Trump said Monday. “If he wants to meet, I’ll be in South Korea.” But Pyongyang has dismissed any new talks unless Washington formally recognizes it as a nuclear power—a condition U.S. officials continue to reject. The launch follows a hypersonic missile test last week from Pyongyang, marking a rapid escalation in North Korea’s weapons activity as it deepens defense and energy ties with Russia. Key Takeaways: Timed Message: North Korea fired nuclear-capable cruise missiles hours before Trump’s arrival in Seoul. Nuclear Posture: KCNA says the test expands the “operational scope” of Pyongyang’s arsenal. Moscow Link: Kim strengthens military and diplomatic ties with Russia ahead of Trump’s summit. Source: EXPRESS US

Trump Defies Congress With Drug Boat Strikes, Bets On Voter Backing The White House says Americans overwhelmingly support President Donald Trump’s lethal strikes on alleged drug boats — even as critics accuse him of bypassing Congress and violating the War Powers Act. Administration officials argue the operations in the Caribbean and Pacific fulfill Trump’s campaign pledge to “take on the cartels” and protect Americans from drug traffickers. Since the campaign began in September, the U.S. military has sunk multiple vessels and killed at least 50 suspected smugglers, including 14 in the latest Pacific strike on Monday. A senior White House official said lawmakers were “briefed several times” and that the strikes enjoy broad public backing. “Framing it around drug trafficking connects a national security action to a domestic concern that people understand,” said former Pentagon official Simone Ledeen. Trump himself dismissed concerns about congressional approval, telling reporters: “I can’t imagine they’d have any problem with it. What are they going to say — ‘We don’t want to stop drugs pouring in?’” Vice President JD Vance called the traffickers “literal terrorists,” while Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said the strikes will continue “as long as drug routes threaten American lives.” Democrats blasted the policy as unconstitutional, while Sen. Rand Paul — the lone Republican dissenter — accused Trump of carrying out “extrajudicial killings.” “A briefing is not enough to overcome the Constitution,” Paul said, warning the president may be “stretching Congress to its tolerance with this war in Latin America.” Still, GOP leaders have largely closed ranks behind Trump, seeing the strikes as a political winner that ties national defense to the war on drugs — a move one ally described as “an 80–20 issue at the campfire level.” Key Takeaways: Unilateral Strikes: Trump orders lethal attacks on suspected drug boats without congressional authorization. Public Play: White House says the moves are overwhelmingly supported by voters as self-defense. Lone GOP Critic: Sen. Rand Paul calls the operations “extrajudicial killings” and unconstitutional. Source: POLITICO

Israel Resumes Gaza Ceasefire After it's Air Strikes Kill 81 Israel’s military says a ceasefire in Gaza is “back in effect” after overnight airstrikes killed at least 81 people, including 20 children, in one of the deadliest flare-ups since the fragile truce began earlier this month. Hospital officials in Gaza said the toll rose from an initial 60 dead after another 21 bodies, including seven women and six children, were brought to Shifa Hospital. Dozens of others remain in critical condition following the strikes that tore through multiple areas overnight. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered the attacks after accusing Hamas of violating the ceasefire by killing an Israeli soldier in Rafah and delaying the return of hostage remains. Hamas denied involvement and condemned the strikes as a “blatant violation” of the truce. The Israeli military said the operations targeted Hamas infrastructure and were in response to “enemy fire,” but pledged to uphold the ceasefire going forward while responding “firmly to any violation.” U.S. President Donald Trump, speaking aboard Air Force One during his Asia trip, defended Israel’s response, saying it “should hit back” when attacked but predicted the truce would hold. “Hamas is a very small part of the overall Middle East peace,” he said. “They have to behave — or they will be terminated.” Ambulances crowded hospitals across Gaza overnight as families carried the bodies of children and women through the rubble. “They struck right next to us, and we saw all the rubble on top of us and our young ones,” one woman said outside Deir Al-Balah Hospital. “What kind of a ceasefire is this?” Key Takeaways: 81 Dead: Gaza hospitals report 81 killed in overnight Israeli strikes, including 20 children. Ceasefire Restored: Israel says the truce is back on but vows to respond to any attack. Trump Backs Israel: The U.S. president defends the strikes, calling Hamas “a small part” of Middle East peace. Source: AP

Hurricane Melissa Slams Cuba After Devastating Jamaica Strike Hurricane Melissa has made landfall in Cuba with sustained winds of 120mph, battering the island’s southern coast after tearing through Jamaica as the strongest storm in the nation’s modern history. The US National Hurricane Center (NHC) confirmed the Category 3 hurricane struck Cuba’s southeast early Wednesday, with “extremely dangerous” conditions reported across the provinces of Granma, Santiago de Cuba, Guantánamo, Holguín, and Las Tunas. The NHC also issued warnings for the southeastern and central Bahamas as the storm moves north. In Jamaica, Prime Minister Andrew Holness has declared the country a “disaster area” following Melissa’s catastrophic landfall as a Category 5 system on Tuesday. The full extent of the damage remains unclear, but officials report “massive floods” in Montego Bay, where half the city has been cut off by rising waters. “It has been a very long day for us battling through the storm,” said Montego Bay mayor Richard Vernon, who described widespread flooding but added that waters were beginning to recede. “The first thing we have to do now is check if everybody is alive.” British tourist Wayne Gibson, sheltering with his family in Ocho Rios, told the BBC that guests had been ordered to remain in communal areas due to safety fears. “The rain is lashing on the big glass panels which is unnerving and unsettling,” he said. “We are tired — but we can’t forget those in a worse position than us.” BBC Weather reports Melissa is among the most powerful storms to strike Cuba since 2017. Authorities in both nations are bracing for continued flooding and storm surges as emergency teams begin rescue operations at first light. Key Takeaways: Category 5: Hurricane Melissa hit Jamaica as its strongest storm on record before slamming into Cuba. Massive Flooding: Montego Bay’s mayor says half the city was cut off, with rescues expected at daybreak. Regional Alert: The NHC has issued hurricane warnings for eastern Cuba and the Bahamas. Source: BBC News

Deported: Migrant Sex Offender Freed by UK Prison Blunder A convicted sex offender who was mistakenly released from a British prison has been deported to Ethiopia, the Home Office confirmed. Hadush Kebatu, who had arrived in the UK by small boat in June 2023, was jailed for sexually assaulting a 14-year-old girl and a woman in Essex while staying at an asylum hotel. He was supposed to be transferred from HMP Chelmsford to an immigration detention centre for deportation under the government’s Early Removal Scheme for foreign criminals — but was instead freed last Friday in what officials called a “human error.” The blunder triggered a nationwide manhunt lasting two days before Kebatu was captured in north London on Sunday, after a member of the public recognised him near Finsbury Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood said the mistake “should never have happened” and promised to hold those responsible to account. “I share the public’s anger,” she said, adding that Kebatu’s deportation “makes our streets safer.” Justice Secretary David Lammy has launched an independent investigation led by Dame Lynne Owens, the former Metropolitan Police deputy commissioner, to find out how Kebatu was released and whether staff were properly trained. A prison officer has been suspended, and all deportations from HMP Chelmsford have been paused. Kebatu’s case has reignited public anger over illegal migration and foreign offenders, particularly after protests outside the Epping asylum hotel where he had been housed. His mistaken release adds to a growing list of administrative blunders in the prison system, with Lammy confirming that such errors have increased each year since 2021. Key Takeaways: Convicted migrant sex offender mistakenly released from UK prison. Captured after two-day manhunt and deported to Ethiopia. Government launches inquiry as prison blunders rise nationwide. Source: BBC News

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Israel Bars Turkish Troops From U.S.-Backed Gaza Force Israel has ruled out allowing Turkish troops to take part in the planned international stabilization force in Gaza, with Foreign Minister Gideon Saar warning that Ankara’s open hostility disqualifies it from any peacekeeping role. Speaking in Budapest on Monday, Saar said Israel had informed Washington that President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s military “will have no role” in Gaza, despite Turkey’s eagerness to participate in the U.S.-brokered ceasefire plan. “Countries that want or are ready to send armed forces should be at least fair to Israel,” Saar said. The 20-point deal, negotiated by President Donald Trump earlier this month, envisions a multinational force to oversee the fragile ceasefire, train vetted Palestinian police, and coordinate with Egypt and Jordan. But the agreement does not specify which nations will contribute troops, and the U.S. has said no American soldiers will be deployed on the ground. Erdogan, a fierce critic of Israel and supporter of Hamas, recently declared Turkey “ready to provide all kinds of support to Gaza,” while Ankara’s defense officials said they were preparing for potential peacekeeping or humanitarian roles. Israel, however, views Turkey’s ties to Hamas and Erdogan’s accusations of “genocide” as disqualifying. The ceasefire’s first phase—recovering the remains of dead hostages in exchange for Palestinian bodies—continues. Israel says 16 of 28 hostages’ bodies have been returned, while 195 Palestinian remains have been handed over so far. Meanwhile, U.S. Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio have been lobbying Arab and regional allies to join the stabilization force, with Washington seeking U.N. authorization to legitimize the deployment. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reaffirmed Israel’s position Sunday: “Israel will determine which forces are unacceptable to us—and this is, of course, acceptable to the United States as well.” Key Takeaways: Israel says Turkish troops will not join Gaza stabilization force. Erdogan’s pro-Hamas stance and anti-Israel rhetoric blamed for exclusion. U.S.-brokered plan aims to oversee ceasefire and train Palestinian police. Source: Associated Press

Putin Flaunts Nuclear ‘Skyfall’ Missile In Warning To Trump Vladimir Putin has brandished a new nuclear-powered cruise missile and overseen atomic war drills in a stark warning to Donald Trump — signalling Moscow will not bow to U.S. pressure over Ukraine. The Russian leader claimed a “successful” test of the Burevestnik, or “Skyfall,” missile — a weapon with virtually unlimited range and the ability to evade Western air defences. Putin hailed it as proof that Russia could strike “any target at any distance,” following the launch of new U.S. sanctions on Russian oil. General Valery Gerasimov told Putin the nuclear-fuelled missile flew 14,000 kilometres over 15 hours, performing complex evasive manoeuvres. Putin ordered the military to prepare deployment facilities immediately. The Kremlin’s nuclear theatrics — including practice launches by bombers, submarines and ICBMs — come as Trump demands a Ukraine ceasefire and pauses plans for a Budapest summit with Putin. The Russian president insists Kyiv must retreat from four annexed regions and drop its NATO ambitions, terms flatly rejected by Ukraine and the West. Putin’s nuclear showmanship also coincided with Russia’s withdrawal from a U.S. plutonium disposal treaty, citing “anti-Russian steps” that upset the strategic balance. He warned that any Western-backed strike deep inside Russia would trigger a “stunning” response. Western analysts dubbed the Burevestnik a “flying Chernobyl,” recalling a 2019 explosion that killed five engineers during a failed test. Moscow insists no radiation leaks occurred during the latest Arctic launch. Trump, visibly irritated by the test, hit back: “You’ve got to get the war ended… instead of testing missiles.” He added that U.S. submarines “right off their shores” already serve as deterrent enough. Key Takeaways: Putin flaunts nuclear-powered “Skyfall” missile amid fresh U.S. sanctions. Missile boasts near-unlimited range and evasion of Western defences. Trump dismisses the test, urges Putin to end the Ukraine war instead. Original Source: Associated Press

Democrat Unity Cracks As Shutdown Pressure Mounts Democrats are facing their first serious internal split of the shutdown crisis after a major federal workers’ union publicly urged them to accept a Republican “clean” funding bill — a move that has left party leaders scrambling to defend their stance. The American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE) broke ranks Monday, demanding Congress immediately reopen the government. The unprecedented call has forced Senate Democrats into a defensive posture as paychecks for troops and federal workers vanish and food aid deadlines loom. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin admitted the break “has a lot of impact,” acknowledging that the union “has been our friend.” Other Democrats, including Virginia’s Sen. Mark Warner, struck a more cautious tone, warning that federal employees “feel like they’ve been abused.” Yet party leaders, including Chuck Schumer and Hakeem Jeffries, insist they won’t cave. Schumer instead blasted President Trump for “skipping town for foreign escapades” while Americans suffer. “The president should start negotiating with Democrats,” he said. Republicans, meanwhile, sense leverage. Speaker Mike Johnson cited the union’s statement as proof Democrats are cracking. Senate GOP leaders are split over whether to push targeted “rifle-shot” bills to restore food aid and military pay, though figures like Ted Cruz and Josh Hawley have already drafted such measures. Even some moderates are fed up. Alaska’s Lisa Murkowski urged senators to stay in Washington until a deal is done, warning: “So much is coming at us like a freight train.” As pressure builds, Democrats continue to pin the blame squarely on Trump — who remains abroad in Asia — but cracks in their once-solid front are now unmistakable. Key Takeaways: Federal workers’ union breaks ranks, urging Democrats to back GOP bill. Schumer blames Trump’s “foreign escapades” as paychecks and aid run out. Growing bipartisan frustration hints at a possible shift in shutdown dynamics. Original Source: [Politico]

Anti Zionist Foreign Army’ March In East London Streets Masked Muslim men take to the streets of London to protest UKIP Nigel Farage erupted in fury after a masked protest in East London, branding it “one of the most terrifying things I’ve ever seen.” The Reform UK leader likened the demonstration in Tower Hamlets to “a foreign invading army marching through our streets.” Hundreds of men, many from the Bangladeshi community, gathered outside Whitechapel Station waving Palestinian and Bangladeshi flags and chanting “Allahu akbar” and “Zionist scum off our streets.” Many wore balaclavas — reportedly sold nearby for £5 — in defiance of a ban on a planned UKIP rally. Farage claimed the event amounted to “intimidation to the point of urging the mass wipe-out of huge numbers of Jewish people.” “It was like a foreign invading army,” he told reporters in Westminster, adding that “proper racism” was unfolding in Tower Hamlets — and that even left-wing demonstrators were rebuffed by the crowd. The comments came as Reform UK faced its own storm. MP Sarah Pochin was accused of racism after saying on TalkTV that British adverts were “full” of black and Asian people, leaving the “average white person” unrepresented. She later apologised, blaming “DEI madness,” but Farage said her phrasing was “ugly” — while rejecting calls to suspend her. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer slammed the remarks as “shocking racism,” accusing Farage of lacking leadership and declaring: “I want to serve the whole of our diverse, tolerant country. Starmer can’t even call out racism.” Key Takeaways: Farage branded a Tower Hamlets protest a “foreign army” invasion. Reform MP Sarah Pochin apologised for “ugly” comments on diversity in ads. Starmer blasted Farage’s response, calling it proof of Reform’s moral rot. Source: EXPRESS

Trump Signs Rare Earths Pact With Japan To Counter China’s Grip President Donald Trump on Monday signed a landmark agreement with Japan to boost cooperation on critical minerals and rare earth processing — a major step in his Asia tour aimed at reducing U.S. dependence on China. The deal, inked with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi in Tokyo, commits both nations to “intensify cooperative efforts” and provide financial backing for joint mining and processing projects within six months. These materials — essential for smartphones, electric vehicles, and weapons systems — have become a new front in global economic rivalry. Trump and Takaichi also pledged to usher in what they called “a new golden age” for the U.S.–Japan alliance, reinforcing Tokyo’s role as Washington’s closest ally in Asia amid growing tensions with Beijing. The move follows a string of similar agreements signed by the U.S. over the weekend with Thailand, Cambodia, and Malaysia, all centered on securing supply chains for rare earth elements and critical raw materials. China’s recent decision to tighten export controls on key minerals such as gallium and germanium has reignited Western fears of economic blackmail. Trump is expected to confront Chinese President Xi Jinping over the issue when the two meet later this week at the APEC summit in South Korea. “Critical minerals are the oil of the 21st century,” a White House official said. “This is about securing America’s future — and keeping Beijing’s hands off the switch.” Key Takeaways: Trump and Japan sign pact to accelerate joint mining and processing of critical minerals. Agreement follows U.S. deals with Thailand, Cambodia, and Malaysia. China’s export curbs have made rare earth security a top geopolitical priority. Original Source: THE HILL

Asylum Seeker Jailed For people-smuggling migrants into UK An asylum seeker granted indefinite leave to remain in Britain has been jailed for his role in a people-smuggling gang that trafficked migrants across the Channel — run by his gun-toting “brother,” once hailed online as the “best smuggler.” Anjan Ahmadi, 26, who entered the UK illegally before claiming asylum, was sentenced to five years and seven months at Preston Crown Court for helping migrants enter Britain under the direction of notorious smuggling boss Amanj Hasan Zada, 35. Zada, who bragged about his exploits on Facebook and was filmed firing guns and throwing cash at parties, was jailed for 17 years last year. National Crime Agency (NCA) officers called his network a “sophisticated enterprise” built purely for profit, likely responsible for “many more” crossings. Ahmadi, aided in court by a Kurdish interpreter, had been granted indefinite leave to remain — a status allowing him to live, work, and claim benefits — just months before his arrest in July 2024. The case has intensified concerns about the asylum system, as more refugees with permanent status are being linked to organised smuggling. Evidence showed Ahmadi acted as Zada’s driver and coordinator, arranging tickets and maintaining contact with migrants. A voice note found on his phone revealed him referring new clients to another smuggler, telling one man to “go with my name.” Reform UK has vowed to abolish indefinite leave to remain if elected, citing cases like Ahmadi’s as proof the system is “open to abuse.” Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood also pledged to tighten rules to bar criminals and benefit claimants from obtaining the status. Key Takeaways: Asylum seeker with UK residency jailed for aiding smuggling gang. Gang boss hailed as “best smuggler” ran Channel crossings on Facebook. Case fuels debate over abuse of Britain’s asylum and immigration system. Original Story: Daily Mail

Starmer Turns To Army Bases To End Costly Asylum Hotel Chaos Hundreds of asylum seekers will be moved into military barracks as Sir Keir Starmer scrambles to end Britain’s multi-billion-pound reliance on hotels — a system now branded a national disgrace. Two sites — Cameron Barracks in Inverness and Crowborough Camp in East Sussex — are being fast-tracked to house around 900 migrants by the end of next month, according to The Times. Ministers are also eyeing disused industrial land and temporary sites as Starmer orders officials to “accelerate” efforts to shut down asylum hotels before the next election. The Prime Minister has made closing the £15 billion hotel system a political priority amid growing public anger and frequent protests outside migrant accommodations. Around 32,000 asylum seekers are still living in hotels — down from a peak of 56,000 in 2023, but up 2,500 from last year. A damning Home Affairs Committee report on Monday accused the Home Office of “flawed contracts” and “incompetent delivery,” saying it relied on hotels as “go-to solutions.” Starmer, fuming over the findings, blamed the Tories: “I can’t tell you how frustrated and angry I am that we’ve been left with a mess as big as this.” The Home Office said it is “furious” at the scale of illegal migration and vowed to “close every asylum hotel,” insisting all new sites will meet health and safety standards. Two former military bases — Wethersfield in Essex and Napier Barracks in Kent — are already housing migrants under Tory-era plans, but Labour wants to expand that model to cut costs and ease community tensions. Key Takeaways: Starmer to use army barracks for 900 asylum seekers by next month. £15 billion hotel system slammed as “flawed” and “incompetent.” Government vows to end asylum hotels before next election. Source: BBC

Khan Under Fire As Girls ‘As Young As 9’ Trafficked In London Sadiq Khan is facing fierce backlash after shocking new claims that girls as young as nine are being trafficked, raped, and forced into prostitution by grooming gangs operating across London. The allegations — revealed by The Express and MyLondon — suggest the Mayor of London was aware of reports detailing children being abused in hotels by groups of men, even as he publicly denied grooming gangs existed in the capital. One victim, “Amy,” was just a child when she was repeatedly raped, drugged, and traded across London and Hertfordshire. Retired Met detective Jon Wedge, who investigated such cases, said girls were trafficked to “high-end Mayfair restaurants and saunas.” He accused senior officers — and by extension City Hall — of ignoring warnings for years. “Where was the outcry when I was saying all this a decade ago?” Wedge told The Sun, adding that victims were failed “again and again.” Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp accused Khan of a “shameful cover-up,” claiming the mayor “personally responded to reports containing evidence of victims abused by grooming gangs.” The Met has now reopened over 9,000 cases — directly contradicting Khan’s earlier claim that London had “no reports” of such crimes. Khan’s office insists he is “vigilant” to threats of child exploitation and is “holding the Met to account.” But critics say the reassessment comes far too late for hundreds of ruined lives. The controversy comes as grooming gang victims accuse Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer of “making a mockery” of survivors amid turmoil in the government’s abuse inquiry. Key Takeaways: Girls as young as nine reportedly trafficked and raped across London. Khan accused of “covering up” grooming gang evidence despite prior warnings. Met now reviewing 9,000 cases after years of official denials. Source: The Express

Israel Hunts For 4 Missing Hostage Bodies As Hamas Stalls Deal Israel says it knows the location of 9 out of 13 deceased hostages still held in Gaza, but Hamas has stopped handing over bodies, claiming it cannot locate the rest — a claim Israeli officials call a lie. Jerusalem is pressing Washington to pressure Hamas to resume transfers under the October 9 ceasefire deal. During Vice President JD Vance’s visit, IDF Chief Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir stressed the urgency, citing Israel’s decade-long effort to recover the remains of fallen soldier Hadar Goldin. Despite claiming logistical difficulties, Hamas is accused of deliberately withholding bodies and information. Israel believes the group is violating the ceasefire agreement, using the dead as bargaining chips. The Red Cross and Egyptian teams have joined searches in Rafah with Netanyahu’s approval, and even Hamas members were allowed into IDF-controlled areas to assist. Footage published by Al-Araby showed Hamas’s “Shadow Unit” near a Red Cross vehicle in al-Mawasi. President Trump warned Saturday that Hamas would be blamed if the fragile truce collapses, vowing to “watch very closely” over the next 48 hours. Meanwhile, senior Hamas leader Khalil al-Hayya declared the group would not disarm “until the occupation ends,” casting new doubt on the next phase of the U.S.-brokered deal that requires Hamas to relinquish power in Gaza. Key Takeaways: Israel has located 9 of 13 deceased hostages; Hamas claims it can’t find the rest. Trump warned Hamas will face blame if the ceasefire collapses. Hamas refuses to disarm, saying weapons stay “until the occupation ends.” Source: The Times of Israel

Putin ‘Preparing For War With NATO’ As nuclear Russia Arms Arctic Vladimir Putin is stockpiling nuclear weapons and attack submarines in the Arctic Circle in a chilling build-up for potential war with NATO, Norway’s defence minister has warned. Tore Sandvik revealed that Russia’s Kola Peninsula — home to the Kremlin’s powerful Northern Fleet — is now bristling with missiles, submarines, and one of the world’s largest nuclear stockpiles. “Russia is building up on the Kola Peninsula, where one of the largest arsenals of nuclear warheads in the world is located,” he told The Telegraph. “They are not only pointed towards Norway, but towards the UK, and over the pole towards Canada and the US.” Norway’s defence minister According to Sandvik, Moscow’s Arctic military expansion isn’t defensive — it’s strategic. Putin aims for total naval dominance in the polar region, giving Russia the ability to choke off NATO’s vital transatlantic lifelines in the event of war. Norwegian intelligence believes the Kremlin is targeting two key maritime choke points. The first is the Bear Gap, the icy corridor between Norway’s mainland and the island of Svalbard — a crucial route for NATO reinforcements. The second is the GIUK Gap, stretching between Greenland, Iceland, and the UK — the West’s main naval gateway to the North Atlantic. The Northern Fleet, based near Murmansk, has become a testing ground for Russia’s newest nuclear-capable submarines and advanced missile systems. Western defence officials fear these deployments are part of a long-term effort to reassert Soviet-era control over the Arctic’s strategic sea lanes and energy reserves. Sandvik’s stark warning comes as tensions between Moscow and the West continue to spiral, with NATO bolstering defences in Scandinavia and along Europe’s northern flank. Key Takeaways: Russia is expanding its nuclear and submarine arsenal on the Kola Peninsula. Norway warns Putin seeks full Arctic naval dominance to block NATO supply lines. Western defences are being reinforced amid growing fears of confrontation. Original Source: Daily Express US