https://aseannow.com/rss/42-world-news1.xml/World news reports from around the worldenhttps://aseannow.com/thailand-news/police-probe-crash-that-killed-australian-runner-in-samui-r2298/Police have provided an update on the fatal crash that claimed the life of promising Australian runner Jemma Stapleton on Koh Samui, saying investigations are continuing and it is too early to determine who was at fault. Get today's headlines by email The crash occurred on 10 June at the Zigzag Curve area of Lamai in Bo Phut subdistrict, Koh Samui district. Ms Jemma Stapleton, 25, an Australian tourist and rising athletics talent, died at the scene. According to Pol Maj Gen Suwat Suksri, commander of Surat Thani Provincial Police, the collision involved three vehicles. Investigators found that Ms Stapleton’s motorcycle crashed and she was thrown from the vehicle, with her body becoming trapped beneath a Ford Ranger pickup truck driven by 38-year-old Russian national Yuri Korolevsky. A third vehicle, a Honda City driven by 27-year-old Thailand national, Waraporn, was also present at the scene. Police described the incident as a complex multi-vehicle collision and are examining how the sequence of events unfolded. Investigators have already questioned the drivers involved as well as witnesses. However, police said further analysis is required before any conclusions can be reached regarding responsibility for the crash. Authorities are awaiting detailed findings from forensic specialists, including examinations of collision marks and environmental evidence collected at the scene by the forensic science division. The results will be incorporated into the investigation file. Police stressed that they have not yet determined whether negligence by any party caused the fatal crash. Officials said all available evidence will be reviewed before any findings are made. Daily News reported that Tthe death of Ms Stapleton has attracted significant attention in both Thailand and Australia due to her status as a talented young athlete. The ongoing investigation is expected to clarify the circumstances leading to the crash. Picture courtesy of Daily News Related story Australian-runner-dies-while-on-holiday-in-Koh-Samui Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Dailynews 13 June 2026Fri, 12 Jun 2026 21:42:15 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/chinese-fugitive-held-in-bangkok-over-pet-investment-scam-r2297/A Chinese national wanted in connection with an alleged investment fraud scheme has been detained in Bangkok and is set to be returned to China for prosecution. Thai immigration investigators arrested Chen Zh, 28, after Chinese authorities requested assistance in locating him over allegations of illegally accepting public deposits through a pet investment business. Get today's headlines by email The arrest was announced on 12 June by senior officials from Thailand’s Immigration Bureau, including Pol Lt Gen Phanumas Boonyalak, Commissioner of the Immigration Bureau, and Pol Maj Gen Phanop Worathanatchakul, Commander of the Immigration Bureau Investigation Division. Authorities said Chen’s visa was revoked after it was confirmed he was the subject of an arrest warrant issued by the Hanyang District Public Security Bureau in Wuhan, Hubei Province, on 13 November 2024. According to investigators, Chen allegedly persuaded members of the public to invest in a project linked to the sale of live pets through his business, Miao Dun Pet Life Store, located in Xinli Amber Garden, Hanyang District, Wuhan. Investors were reportedly promised returns of between 15% and 30% on their investments. Authorities said the promised returns were never paid. More than 30 people were allegedly affected by the scheme before Chen reportedly shut down the business and fled to Thailand. The Office of the Police Attache of the People’s Republic of China in Thailand subsequently sent a formal request to Thai police seeking assistance in tracing and detaining the suspect. Immigration officers then confirmed that Chen had entered Thailand legally and that his permission to remain in the country had not yet expired. Following the visa revocation, investigators from Immigration Bureau Investigation Division 1 tracked Chen to a hotel in the Sutthiporn area of Prachasongkhro Road, Din Daeng district, Bangkok. Officers moved in and took him into custody without incident. The case highlights ongoing cooperation between Thai and Chinese authorities in locating foreign fugitives who attempt to evade prosecution by travelling overseas. Thai immigration officials acted on the request after verifying the arrest warrant and Chen’s immigration status. Matichon reported that Chen has been transferred to Immigration Bureau Investigation Division 3, where he is being held pending deportation proceedings. Thai authorities said he will be returned to China to face legal action related to the allegations. Picture courtesy of Matichon Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Matichon 13 June 2026Fri, 12 Jun 2026 21:32:34 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/bank-of-thailand-says-baht-remains-stable-r2296/The Bank of Thailand (BoT) has expressed confidence in the stability of the baht despite its recent depreciation against the US dollar amid heightened external uncertainties linked to the conflict in the Middle East. The central bank said there is no need for a special meeting of its Monetary Policy Committee (MPC), citing the currency’s orderly movement and Thailand’s strong external fundamentals. Get today's headlines by email According to Chayawadee Chai-anant, assistant governor for corporate relations and spokesperson for the BoT, the baht has weakened by 5.4% against the US dollar since the onset of the Middle East conflict. However, foreign investors have recorded net sales of Thai assets totalling only US$1.3 billion. She noted that foreign funds have recently begun returning to Thailand’s long-term bond and equities markets, reflecting improved investor sentiment. The ongoing conflict has raised concerns about energy security around the world, including in Southeast Asia. Governments across the region have introduced various measures to address the oil shock and support economic activity, although some of these actions have affected asset prices, foreign exchange markets and interest rates. Indonesia has taken a different approach. On Tuesday, Bank Indonesia held a special meeting and raised its policy rate to ease pressure from the rapid depreciation of the rupiah against the dollar. Since the war against Iran began, the rupiah has weakened by more than 8%, one of its sharpest declines on record. The Indonesian currency’s decline followed sustained foreign investor selling of equities and bonds amounting to roughly US$3.9 billion. Investors have expressed concerns about domestic stability, including fiscal policy direction and the possibility that Indonesia’s stock market could be downgraded from emerging market to frontier market status. Ms Chayawadee said that while the baht has also depreciated against the dollar, its movement has remained orderly and stable. As a result, the BoT does not see a need to convene a special MPC meeting to consider changes to the policy rate. Pipat Luengnaruemitchai, chief economist at Kiatnakin Phatra Financial Group, expects the MPC to maintain its policy rate at 1% throughout this year. He forecasts that rates could be raised around the middle of next year, depending on economic conditions and inflation. Don Nakornthab, the BoT’s assistant governor for monetary policy, wrote on his personal Facebook page that Thailand and Indonesia face fundamentally different economic circumstances. He argued that despite Indonesia’s stronger fiscal indicators, the country remains vulnerable to concerns over state-owned enterprise debt, governance issues surrounding the Danantara sovereign wealth fund, a current account deficit and a smaller foreign reserve buffer than Thailand. The Bangkokpost reported that Mr Don said the likelihood of Thailand facing a currency crisis in the near term remains relatively low. He added that Thailand’s primary challenge is not currency stability but the need for structural reforms to restore competitiveness and place the economy on a stronger growth path. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Bangkokpost 13 June 2026Fri, 12 Jun 2026 21:27:01 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/immigration-police-revoke-student-visas-in-bangkok-r2295/Thai immigration investigators have revoked the student visas of seven foreign nationals in Bangkok after finding they were enrolled as students but allegedly never attended classes. All seven were Myanmar nationals and are being deported in accordance with Thai law. Get today's headlines by email The operation followed a directive from Pol. Gen. Samran Nuanma, Deputy Commissioner-General of the Royal Thai Police and Director of the Centre for Suppression of Transnational Crime and Illegal Immigration, and Pol. Lt. Gen. Phanumas Boonyalak, Commissioner of the Immigration Bureau. Authorities are enforcing the “3 No” policy - “No Entry, No Stay, No Escape” - aimed at preventing foreign nationals from using Thailand as a base for criminal activity. On 11 June 2026 at around 1pm, officers from Immigration Division 1 carried out inspections at several educational institutions across Bangkok. The operation was conducted under the supervision of Maj. Gen. Pratchaya Prasansuk, Deputy Commissioner of the Immigration Bureau, Maj. Gen. Prasat Khemaprasit, Commander of Immigration Division 1, and other senior officers. Investigators found that some foreign students holding education visas had never attended classes. Authorities subsequently revoked their visas, detained the individuals and began deportation procedures. The seven people identified during the operation were all Myanmar nationals. According to the initial investigation, some foreign nationals are believed to have used student visas as a cover to remain in Thailand while allegedly working illegally or engaging in other unlawful activities. Investigators also found evidence suggesting that both Thai and foreign individuals may have assisted or facilitated these arrangements. Immigration Division 1’s investigation unit is continuing to expand the inquiry to identify and prosecute anyone connected to the scheme. Officials are examining both the visa approval process and compliance after visas have been granted. Maj. Gen. Prasat Khemaprasit said foreign nationals must comply fully with Thai immigration laws and regulations while staying in the Kingdom. He noted that Immigration Division 1 has already revoked more than 40 student visas in similar cases as part of ongoing enforcement efforts. Thaitabloid reported that authorities said the crackdown is intended to prevent foreign nationals from exploiting visa categories to remain in Thailand for purposes that violate the law. The Immigration Bureau has pledged to continue strict monitoring of visa holders and educational institutions. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Thaitabloid 13 June 2026Fri, 12 Jun 2026 21:22:05 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/turkmenistan-tourist-refuses-to-pay-on-walking-street-r2294/A foreign tourist was handed over to police after allegedly refusing to pay food and drink bills totalling 3,740 baht at a venue on Pattaya’s Walking Street in the early hours of 12 June 2026. Get today's headlines by email At approximately 12.35am on 12 June 2026, Pattaya City municipal enforcement officers and personnel from the Walking Street land rescue and security project were carrying out routine duties to maintain order and safety in the area. They received a report from security staff at Imperia that a foreign tourist was refusing to settle outstanding charges incurred inside the venue. Officers attended the scene and found a man from Turkmenistan, believed to be aged 50, who appeared to be intoxicated. Checks found that three unpaid bills remained outstanding, with a combined value of 3,740 baht. Officials initially attempted to mediate between the tourist and the business in an effort to resolve the dispute. However, no agreement could be reached as the tourist reportedly refused to make payment. The man was subsequently transported by golf cart, together with the venue manager, to the Tourist Police service point on Walking Street. Tourist Police officers made a further attempt to negotiate a settlement between the two parties, but the tourist again declined to pay the outstanding amount. As a result, Tourist Police transferred the man to investigators at Pattaya City Police Station, located on Soi 9, for further legal proceedings in accordance with Thai law. The incident highlighted cooperation between Pattaya City enforcement officers, Tourist Police and local volunteers in maintaining public order and supporting businesses operating in the city’s entertainment district. Walking Street remains one of Pattaya’s busiest tourist areas and is regularly patrolled by multiple agencies responsible for visitor safety and security. Authorities have not released further details regarding any charges that may be filed. The matter is now being handled by investigators, who will proceed according to the legal process. Pictures courtesy of ฉลาม นิวส์ Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now ฉลาม นิวส์ 13 June 2026Fri, 12 Jun 2026 21:16:59 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/truck-crashes-after-hitting-wild-elephant-in-chanthaburi-r2293/A fruit-laden 10-wheel truck collided with a wild elephant on Highway 317 in Soi Dao district, Chanthaburi, on the evening of 11 June 2026, leaving the driver trapped inside the wrecked vehicle and the elephant injured before it fled into nearby forest. Rescue teams from the Sawang Katanyu Association responded after receiving reports of the crash at kilometre marker 54 in Moo 10, Sai Khao subdistrict. Get today's headlines by email The green truck, registration from Udon Thani, overturned onto its side following the collision and suffered severe damage to the cab. The windscreen shattered, scattering glass across the road. Rescuers used specialised extraction equipment and carefully navigated the debris to reach the trapped driver. The operation was complicated by the vehicle’s position and the extensive damage to the cab. Rescue workers eventually removed the injured driver through the shattered front windscreen, provided first aid at the scene and transported the casualty to Soi Dao Hospital for treatment. The crash occurred near the Soi Dao mountain range and the Chanthaburi-Sa Kaeo border area, an important feeding ground for wild elephants. During the fruit season, elephants frequently move between habitats and cross roads at night while searching for food in agricultural areas. Officials said the number of vehicle collisions involving wild elephants in Chanthaburi has been increasing as more elephants venture beyond protected areas in search of food. The growing interaction between wildlife and road users has raised concerns about safety along several routes in the province. Following the incident, local village protection volunteers and community volunteers from Ban Ta Mun and nearby areas were deployed to monitor the scene and warn motorists. Authorities urged drivers using Highway 317, particularly at night, to exercise extreme caution because of poor visibility and the possibility of elephants crossing unexpectedly. Forestry officials and local communities are also working together to provide real-time alerts when elephants are known to be crossing roads, with the aim of reducing harm to both people and wildlife. An update reported that a group of 10 wild elephants had been spotted near Ban Khlong Katha in Moo 2, Pa Tong subdistrict, Soi Dao district. Volunteers successfully pushed the animals back into the forest after they appeared to be moving out of the woodland area. Authorities noted that wild elephants were historically rarely seen outside forest areas along Highway 317 in the past. However, reports of elephants leaving protected areas in Pong Nam Ron district began emerging around late 2014, increasing steadily in subsequent years. By around 2017, some elephants had moved towards the Thewa Phithak Marine Corps Camp area, where conflicts with local farmers became more frequent. The Daily News reported that officials said trained volunteers and rapid response teams from the Department of National Parks continue to patrol the area and return elephants to forest habitats. Members of the public who encounter wild elephants are advised to contact local volunteers, officials or the national parks hotline 1362and provide the location so appropriate action can be taken. Pictures courtesy of Daily News Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Dailynews 13 June 2026Fri, 12 Jun 2026 21:10:37 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/thailand-launches-ai-driven-p-track-justice-platform-r2292/Thailand is advancing its digital transformation agenda with the launch of P-Track, an artificial intelligence-powered platform designed to support the country’s administrative fine system. Developed through a partnership between the Royal Police Cadet Academy (RPCA) and the National Research Council of Thailand (NRCT), the platform aims to improve transparency, efficiency and accessibility within the justice process. Get today's headlines by email The initiative forms part of Thailand’s broader shift away from criminal penalties for minor offences and towards an administrative framework. Officials say the move is intended to reduce bureaucratic obstacles, strengthen public trust and modernise the delivery of legal services. P-Track has been created to oversee and manage administrative fine cases, using AI technology to process information and monitor compliance more efficiently. The system was developed by researchers including Assoc. Prof. Dr. Walisa Romsaiyud and Asst. Prof. Dr. Thakorn Phrueksawanprasut. According to project information, P-Track provides automated deadline notifications and applies consistent procedures to fine assessments. The platform is intended to reduce human error and address areas where manual fine collection processes may lack clarity or consistency. Researchers and officials involved in the project say the platform supports greater transparency by relying on objective data and standardised procedures. The system is designed to make administrative penalties more predictable and easier for citizens to understand, while reducing the administrative burden associated with traditional processes. Studies cited alongside the project indicate that Thai police officers generally demonstrate a strong understanding of legal requirements, while citizens show awareness of their rights. However, knowledge gaps remain regarding procedures such as requesting fine reductions or arranging instalment payments. To address this, services and information have been centralised through the P-Track platform at www.p-tracks.com. The project also aligns with Thailand’s wider efforts to modernise public administration through digital technology. Authorities view such initiatives as part of a strategy to strengthen the country’s position as a digitally connected and service-oriented economy within Southeast Asia, while improving public service delivery for residents and visitors. The Nation reported that P-Track will continue to be integrated into Thailand’s administrative justice framework. Officials describe the platform as an important step towards a more efficient and accessible legal system, with technology playing a larger role in supporting public services and maintaining the rule of law. Pictures courtesy of The Nation Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Nation 13 June 2026Fri, 12 Jun 2026 21:00:36 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/chinese-and-myanmar-workers-held-in-pathum-thani-r2291/A joint operation by employment, immigration, military intelligence and security officials led to the arrest of 122 undocumented foreign workers at a construction site in Pathum Thani on 11 June 2026. The workers were found at a project operated by China Electronics System Engineering No. 2 Construction Co., Ltd. (CESE2), an international construction and engineering contractor under a Chinese state-owned enterprise. Get today's headlines by email The raid took place at the Damac Digital construction site inside Navanakorn Industrial Estate in Khlong Nueng subdistrict, Khlong Luang district. The operation was led by Pathum Thani Employment Office chief Nattaphon Jitriphot, labour specialist Surasak Srisutham, Colonel Kittisak Wattanadet, Deputy Director of Internal Security Operations Command (ISOC) Pathum Thani, the Central Registration Division of the Department of Employment, military intelligence officers and the Army Region 1 Operations Centre. Officials said the investigation began after local residents complained that a large number of Chinese nationals were working at the site. Following coordination between employment authorities, intelligence units and ISOC, officials conducted checks and confirmed the presence of Chinese workers before launching the joint enforcement operation. The construction site covers approximately five rai and includes the construction of a 20-storey building. When officials arrived, many workers reportedly attempted to flee. Picture courtesy of Thaitabloid A total of 146 foreign workers were detained for screening. Authorities found that 122 workers lacked the required permits, while 24 were determined to be legally employed and were released after their details were recorded. Among the 122 workers facing legal action were 86 Chinese nationals, including one woman, 34 Myanmar nationals and two Cambodian nationals. Authorities said they would be prosecuted for immigration and labour-related offences, including illegal entry, working outside permitted job categories and working without authorisation. Officials completed records for all detainees before preparing to transfer them to the Immigration Bureau’s detention facility in Bangkok. They are expected to undergo deportation procedures and be removed from the Kingdom. Thaitabloid reported that the operation reflects ongoing efforts by Thai authorities to investigate complaints regarding foreign labour and enforce immigration and employment regulations. No additional details regarding the construction project or potential penalties for employers were announced. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Thaitabloid 13 June 2026Fri, 12 Jun 2026 20:53:19 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/thai-caretaker-arrested-over-record-theft-in-hua-hin-r2290/A Thai caretaker has been arrested after allegedly stealing a valuable record collection, claimed to be worth more than 12.5 million baht from a Swiss man in Hua Hin, Prachuap Khiri Khan. Get today's headlines by email Swiss national Peter Kalt reported that more than 1,000 vinyl records and 400 CDs had disappeared from his home in Hin Lek Fai subdistrict. The collection, built over many years while he lived and worked in Chicago and Switzerland before relocating to Thailand, was described as both financially valuable and deeply personal. Kalt told police he suspected a Thai caretaker, later identified as Ritsanisanaphat “Aoi” Sasiphatninrat, who had been assigned to care for him through a local nursing service. According to Kalt, the caretaker had previously spoken about financial difficulties and had asked him and his wife for money. The caretaker was reportedly removed from her position before the disappearance of the collection was discovered. Kalt said he later sought assistance from local media and online communities after receiving limited updates from police, who had confirmed they knew the identity of a suspect but had not taken further action at that time. The case attracted attention among Hua Hin residents and record collectors, with several people providing information to support the investigation. Police later detained the accused for questioning, according to updates shared in a local Facebook group. Officers examined her mobile phone and allegedly found messages showing attempts to sell parts of the collection. Investigators said the accused had allegedly told potential buyers that the Swiss couple had authorised the sales and that she was acting as their agent. Police also found photographs of the collection taken inside the victim’s home and shared with prospective buyers. The accused remains in police custody. Authorities have not yet announced details of any formal charges or potential penalties. Police are now working to identify buyers and recover the missing records and CDs. Kalt has urged anyone who may have purchased items from the collection to contact authorities to assist with their return. Picture courtesy of The Thaiger Related story Swiss-man-reports-125m-music-collection-theft-in-Hua-Hin Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now TheThaiger 13 June 2026Fri, 12 Jun 2026 20:44:19 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/data-of-36-million-thai-citizens-offered-on-dark-web-r2289/A database allegedly containing personal information belonging to around 36.1 million Thai citizens has been offered for sale on an underground online forum for US$100,000. If authentic, the data exposure could affect between 50% and 70% of Thailand’s adult population and may pose significant risks for identity-related crime. Get today's headlines by email According to the listing, the database contains full names, phone numbers, dates of birth, genders and current addresses. The seller claimed the information was collected from a combination of government and private sector sources and requested payment in Monero (XMR), a cryptocurrency widely regarded as more difficult to trace than many other digital currencies. The alleged breach was reported by Daily Dark Web, which stressed that the authenticity of the database has not been independently verified. The publication said it could not confirm the true source of the information, the number of individuals potentially affected, or whether the records were newly obtained, recycled from previous leaks or compiled from multiple earlier data breaches. Cybersecurity analysts said that, if genuine, the database could represent one of the largest exposures of Thai citizens’ personal information seen on online black markets. However, they cautioned that claims involving tens of millions of records require technical verification and supporting evidence before any conclusions can be drawn. Experts warned that personal data of this scale could be exploited for identity fraud, SIM card takeover attempts, financial scams, account recovery attacks and targeted social engineering campaigns. They noted that stolen personal information is often traded repeatedly on dark web marketplaces, making it difficult to determine its original source. At the time of reporting, no named government agency or private organisation had publicly confirmed or denied the claim. Authorities and affected organisations may need to investigate the origin and authenticity of the alleged database before assessing any potential impact on the public. Manager Online reported that further scrutiny by cybersecurity specialists is expected in the coming days as efforts continue to determine whether the records are genuine, outdated or linked to previous data leaks. Picture courtesy of MGRonline Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now MGRonline 13 June 2026Fri, 12 Jun 2026 20:35:19 +0000https://aseannow.com/worldnews/sweden-opts-against-jailing-serious-offenders-aged-13-r1193/Sweden has abandoned plans to allow serious offenders as young as 13 to be imprisoned after failing to secure sufficient parliamentary backing. Get today's headlines by email Instead, the centre-right government will introduce legislation to lower the age of criminal responsibility from 15 to 14 ahead of legislative elections scheduled for September. Justice Minister Gunnar Strömmer said the change would enable authorities to impose sanctions that are more proportionate to serious crimes while improving opportunities for rehabilitation. “By lowering the age of criminal responsibility... fairer and proportionate sanctions can be imposed, and we will be able to create better conditions for rehabilitation than today,” Strömmer said. Concern Over Youth Gang ViolenceThe move comes as Sweden continues to face growing problems with children being recruited by violent criminal gangs. According to Strömmer, more than 50 children under the age of 15 appeared in court last year on charges of murder or attempted murder. Under current law, children younger than 15 cannot be imprisoned and are instead placed in youth detention facilities known as SiS homes. The government argues that the existing system has failed to prevent reoffending and, in some cases, has contributed to further criminal involvement. Although plans to imprison 13-year-olds have been dropped, authorities have instructed eight prisons to prepare dedicated sections for younger offenders, separated from adult inmates. Strömmer said the proposed reforms were aimed at protecting society from serious violent crime and safeguarding victims, many of whom are also children. Critics Question EffectivenessChildren’s rights advocates have criticised the proposal, arguing that strengthening existing youth facilities would be more effective than lowering the age of criminal responsibility. Maria Frisk, secretary general of Swedish children's rights organisation Bris, said there was no evidence that reducing the age threshold to 14 would reverse current trends. At the same time, concerns have grown over reports that some SiS homes have become recruitment grounds for criminal networks. Gang Conflict Fuels Security ConcernsSweden has experienced a rise in deadly violence over the past decade. The Swedish National Council for Crime Prevention reported 121 homicides in 2023, compared with 87 ten years earlier, although the figure fell to 92 in 2024. One of the country's most notorious criminal groups, the Foxtrot gang, has frequently used teenagers to carry out crimes ranging from shootings and bomb attacks to contract killings. Violence surged in 2023 during a feud between Foxtrot leader Rawa Majid and rival gang leader Ismail Abdo. Abdo was arrested in Turkey in 2025, while Majid is believed to be in the Middle East. Several attacks involving suspects aged 13 and 14 have also targeted sites linked to Israel, including facilities belonging to Elbit Systems in Gothenburg and the Israeli embassy in Stockholm. Sweden's security service, Säpo, has alleged that Iran recruited Swedish gang members to carry out attacks on Israeli and Jewish targets. Iran has denied the accusations, describing them as unfounded and based on misinformation. In 2025, both the United States and the United Kingdom imposed sanctions on Foxtrot and Majid, citing their alleged involvement in attacks on Jewish and Israeli targets in Europe on behalf of the Iranian government. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 13 June 2026Fri, 12 Jun 2026 20:19:13 +0000https://aseannow.com/worldnews/starmer-says-he-has-duty-to-stay-despite-defence-crisis-r1192/Prime Minister Keir Starmer has said he has a duty to remain in office despite growing political pressure, defending his government's defence spending plans after the resignation of two senior ministers. Get today's headlines by email Speaking to the BBC a day after Defence Secretary John Healey and Armed Forces Minister Al Carns stepped down, Starmer said difficult choices were necessary to fund defence commitments. He argued that all government departments had been required to make savings in order to prioritise military spending and insisted that defence remained at the centre of his government's agenda. "Whoever is prime minister is going to face the same prevailing winds as I am facing," Starmer said, suggesting that any successor would encounter the same financial and political constraints. Asked whether he intended to lead Labour into the next general election, the prime minister said he wanted to do so but acknowledged that he needed to improve his political standing. He said he had no desire to trigger a leadership contest, describing such a move as potentially destabilising, but added that he would contest any challenge that emerged. Defence Funding DisputeThe resignations followed an escalating disagreement over funding for the government's Defence Investment Plan (DIP), a long-delayed strategy outlining spending on military equipment and infrastructure over the coming decade. In his resignation letter, Healey accused Starmer of failing to commit the resources needed to guarantee national security. The former defence secretary argued that planned spending increases were insufficient and called for faster growth in military expenditure. Starmer rejected that criticism, saying defence was his government's "number one priority" and would continue to receive preferential treatment during future spending reviews. He pointed to reductions in overseas aid spending as evidence that ministers had already taken difficult decisions to free up resources for defence. The government has pledged to raise defence spending to 3.5% of gross domestic product by 2035. Healey argued that the UK should reach 3% by 2030, claiming the current investment plan would increase spending only to 2.68% of national income by that date. Starmer said significant new funding had already been committed and that the investment plan contained further spending beyond existing allocations. Leadership Pressure GrowsThe dispute has intensified scrutiny of Starmer's leadership following Labour's poor performance in local elections earlier this year. Although no formal leadership contest has been launched, speculation has increased about possible challengers. Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham is expected to consider a leadership bid if he secures victory in the upcoming Makerfield by-election. Without naming any potential rivals, Starmer said governing required difficult trade-offs and warned against simplistic solutions to spending challenges. "For every answer that is being suggested, the question has to be what you would not do instead," he said. Critics Demand Clearer PrioritiesFormer Health Secretary Wes Streeting, who has previously indicated he would enter a leadership contest, said disagreements over defence spending reflected broader indecision within the government. Writing on X, he questioned whether defence or economic growth was the government's main priority and criticised spending commitments elsewhere while defence budgets remained under pressure. Meanwhile, Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch said the government should cut welfare spending to fund defence properly. The Liberal Democrats' defence spokesperson, James MacCleary, said both major parties had failed to provide the armed forces with adequate support. He reiterated his party's proposal to introduce war bonds, which it says could raise £20 billion for defence. Starmer said the Defence Investment Plan would still be published before a NATO summit scheduled for early July, despite the recent ministerial departures. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 13 June 2026Fri, 12 Jun 2026 20:04:47 +0000https://aseannow.com/worldnews/iran-says-peace-deal-with-us-is-within-reach-r1191/Iran has said an agreement with the United States to end months of hostilities is closer than ever, with both Tehran and Pakistani mediators expressing optimism that a final deal could soon be completed. Get today's headlines by email Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi said a deal to end the fighting had “never been closer”. The assessment was echoed by Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, whose government has been mediating talks between the two sides. Sharif said negotiators had reached a final agreed text and were working with both parties on the next steps. However, neither side has officially released details of any proposed agreement. Dispute Over Reported TermsUS President Donald Trump reposted Araghchi’s comments while urging media outlets not to speculate about the contents of the negotiations. The remarks came after Iranian media published what they claimed were details of the proposed agreement. Trump rejected the reports, saying they had “nothing to do with the terms that were agreed to” and bore “no relation to the truth”. He accused Tehran of leaking inaccurate information and described Iranian negotiators as “very dishonorable people to deal with”. On Thursday, Trump said he had cancelled planned US attacks against Iran because negotiators had reached what he called a “great settlement” that could be signed soon. Conflict and Ceasefire EffortsThe current crisis began on 28 February, when US and Israeli forces carried out extensive strikes across Iran. Tehran responded with attacks on Israel and US-aligned states in the Gulf and effectively closed the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments. Although a ceasefire was agreed in April, the US and Iran have continued to exchange sporadic fire, including two rounds of retaliatory strikes earlier this week. Israel is not participating in the current negotiations, which are largely being mediated by Pakistan. The talks are intended to extend the ceasefire and launch broader negotiations on issues including Iran’s nuclear programme. Western governments have long accused Iran of seeking to develop nuclear weapons, an allegation Tehran denies, insisting its nuclear activities are intended for civilian energy production and research. Conflicting ExpectationsIran’s Mehr news agency reported that Tehran was seeking measures including the lifting of a US naval blockade, compensation of at least $300 billion for damage caused by US and Israeli strikes, and endorsement of any final agreement through a UN Security Council resolution. The reported terms also suggested Iran wanted sanctions relief, access to frozen assets and the suspension of restrictions on oil exports before final negotiations begin. US officials have strongly disputed those claims. A senior US administration official said the proposed agreement would require Iran’s nuclear material to be removed or destroyed and its nuclear programme dismantled. The official added that no Iranian funds would be released until Tehran met US conditions, reopened the Strait of Hormuz and ceased support for militant groups including Hezbollah. US Vice-President JD Vance also rejected reports that Iran would receive immediate financial benefits, saying any rewards would depend on compliance with the agreement. Deal Remains UnfinishedAccording to US officials, the proposed arrangement would be performance-based, with economic incentives tied to specific Iranian actions. Officials estimated the chances of a deal being signed at between 80% and 85%, while acknowledging delays caused by the complexity of the negotiations and divisions within Iran’s government. The US administration also expressed confidence that regional partners, including Israel and members of the Gulf Cooperation Council, would ultimately support the agreement while retaining the right to self-defence. Pakistan, meanwhile, warned against what it described as misinformation aimed at undermining the negotiations, insisting that a peace deal is closer than at any previous stage of the talks. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 13 June 2026Fri, 12 Jun 2026 19:57:43 +0000https://aseannow.com/worldnews/elon-musk-becomes-worlds-first-trillionaire-r1190/SpaceX began trading on US stock markets on Friday with a valuation exceeding $2 trillion, making chief executive Elon Musk the world's first trillionaire and placing the aerospace company among the largest publicly traded firms in the United States. Get today's headlines by email The company’s shares opened at $150, up 11% from the initial public offering (IPO) price of $135. The opening price gave SpaceX a market value of about $1.96 trillion, putting it on course to become the sixth-largest listed company in the country. By the first hour of trading, shares under the ticker symbol SPCX had climbed further to $164.99. Strong Demand for SharesSpaceX raised $75 billion through the offering, initially valuing the company at $1.77 trillion. Demand for the IPO was particularly strong, with orders reportedly exceeding the available shares by four times. According to reports, around 70% of shares allocated to institutional investors went to long-term investment funds and sovereign wealth funds, including investors from Saudi Arabia and Kuwait. SpaceX President Gwynne Shotwell and Chief Financial Officer Bret Johnsen rang the opening bell at the Nasdaq MarketSite in New York City as trading commenced. Delayed Trading and ProtestsDespite the strong interest, shares did not begin changing hands immediately after markets opened. Exchange operators and underwriters delayed trading until buy and sell orders could be balanced, a precaution aimed at ensuring an orderly debut. The launch was also accompanied by protests outside the Nasdaq MarketSite. Demonstrators voiced concerns over allegations involving Grok, an artificial intelligence product developed by xAI, which critics claim enabled the creation of non-consensual sexualised deepfake images before the IPO. Market participants were particularly focused on avoiding the technical problems that affected the public debut of Meta Platforms in 2012. Test for Future Mega-ListingsAnalysts said investors were closely watching the offering as a gauge of demand for future high-profile technology flotations. Samuel Kerr, global head of equity capital markets at Mergermarket, said expectations were for a sharp rise in the share price due to strong investor enthusiasm surrounding the deal. The listing is also being viewed as a benchmark for planned public offerings by major artificial intelligence companies, including Anthropic and OpenAI. Revenue Growth Driven by StarlinkThe public debut further strengthened Musk’s position among the world’s wealthiest individuals and pushed SpaceX into the ranks of the most valuable companies globally. The achievement comes despite the company reporting a loss of nearly $5 billion last year and generating significantly less revenue than many technology firms with comparable market valuations. Much of SpaceX’s recent growth has been driven by its satellite internet business, Starlink, which accounts for roughly 80% of company revenue. Separately on Friday, SpaceX launched a Falcon 9 rocket carrying 29 satellites from Cape Canaveral, underscoring the company’s continued expansion in the commercial space sector. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 13 June 2026Fri, 12 Jun 2026 19:48:56 +0000https://aseannow.com/worldnews/david-hockney-british-pop-art-pioneer-dies-aged-88-r1189/David Hockney, the influential British artist whose vibrant paintings helped shape modern art and became synonymous with images of California life, has died at the age of 88. Get today's headlines by email Born in Bradford in 1937, Hockney emerged as one of Britain's most celebrated artists during the 1960s. Associated with the Pop Art movement, he gained international recognition for works depicting swimming pools, bright sunshine and everyday life in Los Angeles. Paintings such as A Bigger Splash and Portrait of an Artist (Pool With Two Figures) became defining images of his career. Over more than six decades, Hockney continually reinvented his artistic approach. Beyond painting, he explored photography, photo-collage, landscape art and digital media, embracing new technologies throughout his life. His later work included creations made using iPads, computers and 3D tools, reflecting a lifelong fascination with how images are made and viewed. Early Life and EducationHockney grew up in a working-class family in Bradford and showed artistic talent from a young age. After studying at Bradford College, he sold his first painting, a portrait of his father, in 1957. Following national service as a hospital orderly, he enrolled at the Royal College of Art in London in 1959. There he developed a reputation as both a gifted artist and a challenger of convention. His refusal to conform to some academic requirements nearly prevented him from graduating, although the college ultimately awarded him a diploma in recognition of his exceptional work. Breaking Social BoundariesHockney's early paintings openly depicted gay life at a time when homosexuality remained illegal in Britain. Works such as We Two Boys Together Clinging and Cleaning Teeth, Early Evening (10pm) W11 challenged prevailing social attitudes and established him as a bold artistic voice. With his distinctive blond hair, round glasses and cigarette often in hand, he became a familiar figure in London's cultural scene and later among artists and celebrities in the United States. Despite his reputation for enjoying the social life of the era, he maintained a prolific work ethic throughout his career. Success in Los AngelesAfter relocating to Los Angeles in the mid-1960s, Hockney produced many of his most acclaimed works. His paintings combined bright colours with emotional depth, exploring themes of love, relationships and human connection. In 2018, Portrait of an Artist (Pool With Two Figures) sold for $90.3 million, setting a record at the time for the most expensive work by a living artist sold at auction. The painting was inspired by the end of a romantic relationship and remains one of his most celebrated achievements. Innovation and Later YearsHockney's curiosity extended beyond traditional painting. His photo-collages, which he called "joiners", assembled multiple images to challenge conventional ideas of perspective and visual representation. He also worked in theatre and opera design, creating sets and costumes for stage productions. New technologies consistently attracted his attention. Throughout his career he experimented with photocopiers, fax machines, printers and digital devices, viewing each as another way to create pictures. Personal ChallengesIn 2005, Hockney returned from Los Angeles to Yorkshire. Eight years later, he suffered a personal tragedy when his assistant, Dominic Elliott, died at his home in Bridlington. Hockney later said the loss left him unable to draw for a period and made him consider abandoning art. Known for his independent views, Hockney reportedly declined a knighthood on several occasions and once turned down a request to paint Queen Elizabeth II. His 2001 book Secret Knowledge sparked debate among historians by questioning how Old Master paintings had been created. LegacyHockney remained active into his later years, continuing to create and experiment despite health challenges, including a stroke in 2012. Widely regarded as one of Britain's greatest living artists, he left behind a body of work that transformed perceptions of portraiture, landscape and visual storytelling. Reflecting on life in a 2015 interview, Hockney said he did not spend much time looking back. "I live now," he said. "It's always now." Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 12 June 2026Fri, 12 Jun 2026 10:17:41 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/australian-runner-dies-while-on-holiday-in-koh-samui-r2288/Australian sprinter Jemma Stapleton has died while on a family holiday on Koh Samui, prompting an outpouring of tributes from the athletics community and widespread support for her family. Stapleton, from Melbourne, was 25 years old and had celebrated her birthday on June 1, shortly before her death. The cause of death has not been disclosed. Get today's headlines by email Stapleton was a prominent figure in Victorian athletics and was a finalist in the Stawell Gift, one of Australia’s most prestigious running races. She finished third in the 2025 Stawell Gift and reached the final again in 2026. She was travelling in Thailand with close family members at the time of her death. Her passing was first reported while the family was still overseas. A GoFundMe campaign established to assist with repatriating her body raised almost A$100,000 by Friday 12 June 2026. The fundraiser described the family as facing “immeasurable grief” following her sudden death abroad. Tributes have been paid by family members, friends and organisations across the athletics community. In a video tribute provided to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC), her brother Joel Stapleton said she had been more than a sister and described her as his best friend and a constant source of support. “For those that knew her, you know how lucky you were to have her in your life. Her smile was so bright that wherever she went you knew she was there,” Joel said. He added that he was grateful to call her his sister. Her partner, Tyler Gray, also shared an emotional tribute on Instagram, describing Stapleton as the greatest thing to happen to him and saying he was struggling to come to terms with the loss. Former coach Mark Thomas said he was shocked by the news and remembered her as one of his favourite athletes to coach. The Victorian Athletic League described Stapleton as a valued member of the community whose presence left a lasting impact. Athletics Australia remembered her as a “beautiful, bright and warm personality who was always smiling”, adding that she brought positivity wherever she went. Colleagues from her work as a childcare worker also praised her kindness and support. The Daily Mail reported that the Australian Government’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade said it was providing consular assistance to the family. Authorities have not released further details about the circumstances surrounding Stapleton’s death and it remains publicly unclear how she died while on holiday in Thailand. Pictures courtesy of Daily Mail Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Dailymail 12 June 2026Fri, 12 Jun 2026 10:15:27 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/chinese-backed-chon-buri-site-raided-25-workers-held-r2287/Authorities in Chon Buri have raided a construction site in Ban Bueng district and arrested 25 migrant workers for allegedly working without permits. The operation followed complaints about the site after a building collapse there, on 21 May 2026 that left one person dead and two injured. Get today's headlines by email On 11 June 2026, Chon Buri Employment Office chief Phuwakon Tosingkhon joined labour officials, immigration police, the Anti-Human Trafficking Division and Internal Security Operations Command officers to inspect the site in Khlong Kio subdistrict. The construction area covers approximately 30 rai and was found to employ a large number of foreign workers. Officials reported that many workers attempted to flee in different directions when the inspection began. Authorities managed to detain nearly 100 people for checks, with 25 found to be in breach of labour laws. Those arrested included four Chinese male nationals and 21 Myanmar nationals, comprising 20 men and one woman, all accused of working without authorisation. Picture courtesy of แจ็ค โพธิ์แดง Investigators also found ongoing construction of buildings, factories and warehouses intended for lease. Authorities believe the project is linked to a group of Chinese investors. During the inspection, officers discovered a concrete plant producing concrete blocks and other construction materials for use within the site. The facility was reportedly operated under the supervision of Chinese personnel. Officials also raised concerns about construction materials after observing steel that appeared thinner than standard specifications. Further checks are under way to determine whether all materials used at the project comply with legal standards and building regulations. The 25 workers have been handed over to investigators at Khlong Kio Police Station for legal proceedings. The Employment Office has also filed complaints against two employers and requested that police summon them to acknowledge the allegations and face legal action. Authorities said efforts to crack down on illegal migrant labour and improve regulation of foreign workers in Chon Buri will continue. AQOzNONNIc88rE0VjlCG9RfZHdAWjH3p8x4PI__wsJWp9RixsOVq8AfmgIV4e_1PD2cDb0Uo7VdcJE-ycUj0bNX_3tghWS0LjTddVSaH6Q.mp4 Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now แจ็ค โพธิ์แดง 12 June 2026Fri, 12 Jun 2026 09:43:38 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/murder-probe-after-womans-dismembered-body-found-in-bangkok-r2286/Police have launched a manhunt after the dismembered body of an unidentified woman was discovered inside a plastic storage box in a room on Ratchaprarop Soi 14 in Bangkok. Investigators are working to locate the suspect responsible for the killing. Get today's headlines by email At 3.30am on 12 June 2026, Pol. Sub-Lt. Phisit Lha-inchuea, Deputy Investigation Officer at Din Daeng Police Station, received a report of a suspicious object and a strong foul odour coming from a room in the Ratchaprarop 14 area. Officers from the investigation unit, together with volunteers from the Ruamkatanyu Foundation, attended the scene to carry out an inspection. Inside the room, officers found a plastic box containing the remains of a woman. Initial examinations indicated that the victim’s body had been dismembered, with multiple body parts placed inside the container. A detailed search of the room and remains found that the victim’s head and several major body organ parts were missing. Police believe the suspect may have removed and disposed of them elsewhere. Forensic officers conducted a thorough examination of the scene, collecting latent fingerprints, DNA samples and other scientific evidence. Investigators have also begun interviewing neighbours and residents living in the same building to establish whether any unusual activity or suspicious individuals were seen entering or leaving the room around the time of the incident. Officers are reviewing CCTV footage from nearby locations to trace the suspect’s movements and possible escape route. Preliminary investigations identified the deceased as Ms. Aye Aye Nwe, a 34-year-old Myanmar national. The suspect is a Myanmar man who had a close relationship with the victim and worked as a chef. Authorities are currently searching for him and seeking to bring him in for questioning. The victim’s remains have been transferred to the Institute of Forensic Medicine at Ramathibodi Hospital for a detailed examination by specialist medical staff. Results from the examination are expected to assist investigators in determining the cause of death and for gathering further evidence. Pictures courtesy of ThaiRath Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now ThaiRath 12 June 2026Fri, 12 Jun 2026 09:31:33 +0000https://aseannow.com/worldnews/iran-says-no-final-deal-reached-despite-trump-claims-r1188/Iran has said no final agreement has been reached to end its conflict with the United States, pushing back against President Donald Trump's assertion that a deal could be signed within days. Get today's headlines by email Trump had earlier threatened fresh military action against Iran, warning that the US would strike the country "very hard" again. However, he later said planned attacks had been called off because negotiators had reached what he described as a "great settlement" with Tehran. Speaking to reporters, Trump said the agreement was awaiting the completion of final documents and suggested a signing ceremony could take place in Europe. He added that the paperwork was in its final stages and could be completed quickly. Tehran rejects reports of completed agreementIran's foreign ministry spokesperson, Esmail Baghaei, dismissed reports of a completed agreement as premature. He said claims that a deal had been reached were "speculative" and stressed that "nothing has been finalised". While acknowledging that much of the proposed memorandum had already been drafted, Baghaei said Washington had introduced what he described as excessive demands and additional conditions. He also reiterated that Iran would not cross its "red lines" during negotiations. Conflict continues despite ceasefireThe latest diplomatic exchanges come after months of conflict that began when the US and Israel launched extensive strikes against Iran on 28 February. Iran responded with attacks on Israel and US-aligned states in the Gulf and effectively shut down the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial route for global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments. Although a ceasefire was agreed in April, tensions have remained high. The US and Iran have continued to exchange sporadic attacks, including two rounds of retaliatory strikes this week. Hours before speaking optimistically about a potential agreement, Trump had warned that the United States would strike Iran again and threatened action against key oil facilities, including Kharg Island, through which most Iranian oil exports pass. Iran responded with warnings of stronger retaliation if further attacks occurred. The country's military said that if Iran's oil and gas exports were threatened, energy exports throughout the region could also be affected. Oil prices fall as hopes for deal growTrump said the proposed agreement would ensure Iran never obtained a nuclear weapon, describing that objective as the central reason for the conflict. He also suggested the Strait of Hormuz would reopen once an agreement was formally signed. According to Trump, regional leaders, including Gulf allies and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, had reacted positively to the developments. Israel confirmed that Netanyahu had spoken with Trump but stressed that Israel was not a party to the memorandum of understanding under discussion. The Israeli government said it supported efforts aimed at limiting Iran's nuclear programme, missile production and regional influence. Financial markets reacted positively to the prospect of an agreement. Brent crude oil prices fell about 4.4% to roughly $89 a barrel. Recent clashes raise tensionsThe latest military exchanges followed the crash of a US Apache helicopter in the Gulf on Monday. On Wednesday, the US Central Command said it had carried out strikes against military, surveillance and radar installations in southern Iran. Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps later said it targeted American bases in Bahrain, Kuwait and Jordan. Authorities in Bahrain reported that an 11-year-old girl was injured in a drone attack and that several homes and vehicles were damaged. Negotiations between Washington and Tehran have continued for months, with Trump repeatedly expressing confidence that an agreement was near. However, previous claims of imminent progress have not resulted in a final deal. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 12 June 2026Fri, 12 Jun 2026 08:48:55 +0000https://aseannow.com/worldnews/israeli-demolitions-fuel-palestinian-anger-in-east-jerusalem-r1187/The sound of demolition machinery echoes through the hills below Jerusalem's Old City as an Israeli excavator tears into another Palestinian home in the al-Bustan area of Silwan. Get today's headlines by email Since late 2023, 59 properties have been demolished in the neighbourhood, where residents say the pace of destruction has accelerated while international attention has focused on conflicts in Gaza, Iran and Lebanon. Homes Reduced to Rubble in Silwan"There is no future. They destroyed the future and everything else," said 58-year-old Fayez Awad, speaking from the only remaining floor of his home. "We spent our whole lives building this house. This is all we managed to achieve in life. They brought us back to zero again, me and my children." Dispute Over Land and PlanningEast Jerusalem has remained at the centre of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict since Israel captured it from Jordan in the 1967 Middle East War and later annexed it, a move not recognised by most countries. For around two decades, Jerusalem's municipality has pursued plans to transform al-Bustan into a biblical-themed park known as the King's Garden, to be operated by a Jewish settler organisation. Demolition orders issued by Israeli courts have recently been enforced at a faster rate. The municipality said it was acting "for the benefit of all city residents" and aimed to create a park in an area lacking public open space. Palestinian residents argue that obtaining Israeli building permits in East Jerusalem is extremely difficult. According to the Israeli planning rights group Bimkom, Palestinians received only 7% of newly approved housing in Jerusalem in 2025 despite making up about 40% of the city's population. About half of al-Bustan's homes have now been demolished. Many residents facing demolition orders have chosen to destroy their own properties to avoid substantial municipal fines and demolition costs. "We're being given warnings that in the coming months they'll destroy the rest of the houses," said community activist Fakhri Abu Diab, whose own home has already been demolished. Evictions and Settlement ExpansionIsrael has built roughly 160 settlements housing around 700,000 Jewish residents across the West Bank and East Jerusalem. Settlements and the transfer of populations into occupied territory are considered illegal under international law, a position rejected by Israel. According to the United Nations, around 200 Palestinian households, comprising about 900 people, are currently facing eviction proceedings in East Jerusalem, most of them initiated by settler groups. In nearby Batn al-Hawa, Palestinian families are being removed from homes where they have lived for decades under laws that allow Jewish ownership claims dating from before Israel's establishment in 1948. Palestinians do not have equivalent rights to reclaim property inside Israel. Israeli anti-settlement groups say the changes are reshaping the city's demographic and political landscape. Yonatan Mizrahi of Peace Now said Silwan's archaeological and religious significance has made it a focus for projects highlighting Jewish historical connections to the area. Families Fear Losing Their Last HomesElsewhere in the Old City, another legal battle has placed members of the Basha family at risk of eviction from a building linked to a Jewish religious school. The family traces its presence there to the British Mandate era, when Mohammed Basha Abdulghani was allowed to live in part of the property after protecting it during periods of unrest. Although a court recently granted a temporary injunction while an appeal is considered, family members fear they could still lose their homes. "What will we do?" asked 76-year-old Mufid Basha. "We've nowhere else to go. This is the only home I've ever known." Rights groups also warn that land registration measures introduced in East Jerusalem in 2018 are contributing to Palestinian displacement. Calls for International ActionDuring a recent visit by foreign diplomats to Silwan, residents urged the international community to intervene. The European Union recently described the situation in East Jerusalem, particularly in Silwan, as "dire" and reiterated its opposition to Israeli settlement activity. Among those facing uncertainty is 97-year-old Yusra Qweider, who has been displaced three times since 1948. After living in her current home for more than 50 years, she now faces an eviction notice. "They want to kick us out of here," she said. "I am sick and I can't walk. We are counting on God." Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 12 June 2026Fri, 12 Jun 2026 07:33:40 +0000https://aseannow.com/worldnews/manchester-girl-14-charged-with-attempted-murder-r1186/A 14-year-old girl has been charged with three counts of attempted murder following a stabbing incident at a secondary school in north Manchester. Get today's headlines by email The teenager was charged on Thursday after the Crown Prosecution Service authorised the case. She also faces two counts of possessing a bladed article on school premises. She is due to appear at Westminster Magistrates' Court on Friday. Charges Follow School IncidentPolice were called to Co-op Academy Manchester on Plant Hill Road in Blackley on 9 June after reports of a stabbing at the school. Three people were injured in the incident, prompting a major police response and an investigation involving Counter Terrorism Policing North West and Greater Manchester Police. Authorities have not released further details about the victims. Investigation ContinuesDetective Chief Superintendent Jonathan Chadwick, head of Counter Terrorism Policing North West, said the charges against the teenager were extremely serious. He said officers were continuing to support the victims and their families, as well as the wider school community, which had been deeply affected by the incident. Support for School CommunityChadwick said that although charges had now been brought, investigators were continuing their work. He added that police were working closely with local officers in the Blackley area as the investigation remains ongoing. No further information has been released. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now. Source 12 June 2026Fri, 12 Jun 2026 07:11:31 +0000https://aseannow.com/thailand-news/thailand-orders-15-days-of-mourning-nationwide-r2285/Thailand has ordered a 15-day official mourning period following the death of HRH Princess Bajrakitiyabha, with government buildings, state agencies and educational institutions instructed to fly flags at half-staff across the country. The measures were approved during a special Cabinet meeting on 12 June 2026 after the Royal Household Bureau confirmed the princess’s death. Get today's headlines by email Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul led Cabinet ministers in observing a moment of silence in tribute to the princess. The government also directed all relevant agencies to ensure that funeral and royal ceremonial arrangements are conducted with full honours and in accordance with traditional royal customs. Government spokeswoman Ratchada Thanadirek announced that government offices, state enterprises, state agencies and educational institutions must lower flags to half-staff for 15 days beginning on 12 June 2026. Civil servants, employees of state enterprises and government officials have also been instructed to observe a 15-day mourning period from the same date. Members of the public have been asked to observe mourning as appropriate. The Cabinet additionally assigned responsibilities to a range of government bodies to oversee funeral preparations and related ceremonial activities. Under the arrangements, the Office of the Prime Minister’s Permanent Secretary will establish a committee chaired by the prime minister to oversee the royal funeral ceremonies. Additional committees will be responsible for ceremonial arrangements, construction of the royal crematorium, public relations, security and other related duties. Government agencies will organise daily attendance by civil servants throughout the 100-day period of funeral prayers. The Ministry of Culture, through the Fine Arts Department, will supervise ceremonial protocols and the construction of the royal crematorium. The Cabinet Secretariat will coordinate ministerial attendance at funeral prayer ceremonies. The Ministry of Interior and the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration will organise merit-making and tribute activities for the public. Authorities said entertainment events and public activities would not be prohibited during the mourning period. Organisers have instead been asked to implement appropriate measures, including moments of tribute and adjustments to event formats where suitable. The Public Relations Department has also been instructed to continue promoting information about the princess’s public service and royal duties. English-language materials will be prepared in coordination with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Khaosod 12 June 2026Fri, 12 Jun 2026 06:33:34 +0000