On October 22, President Joe Biden labeled Donald Trump a threat to democracy during a campaign event in New Hampshire, urging Democrats to "lock him up" politically in order to win the upcoming election. Biden argued that Trump seeks to undermine the safeguards of the U.S. Constitution, asserting that democracy itself is at risk if Trump defeats Democratic candidate Kamala Harris. This rhetoric echoes Trump’s 2016 rallies, where supporters chanted "lock her up" regarding Hillary Clinton, a chant Trump did not discourage. Currently, some of Harris's supporters chant "lock him up" in reference to Trump, who has been convicted of 34 felony counts related to hush money payments and faces additional charges regarding the 2020 election. While Harris acknowledges these chants, she emphasizes that the Justice Department will handle legal issues, focusing instead on winning the election at the ballot box.
On October 22, Barack Obama campaigned for Democratic nominee Kamala Harris in Wisconsin, warning voters against the return of "older, loonier" Donald Trump. Joined by Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, they criticized Trump’s age and stamina, with Walz stating he lacks the endurance to be president. Obama also mocked Trump’s marketing of branded products. Following this event, Obama plans to continue his campaign efforts, including a concert and rally with Bruce Springsteen in Atlanta and Philadelphia, aimed at mobilizing voters in key battleground states crucial for Harris’s campaign.
Former Indian Ambassador to China, Gautam Bambawale, has welcomed the India-China agreement on border patrolling, highlighting its significance in restoring the pre-Galwan status quo in Ladakh. In an exclusive interview with ANI, Bambawale praised the Indian government's firm stance, stating that they should be congratulated for achieving this crucial development after years of tension along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). With External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar confirming the return to the pre-Galwan situation, this agreement marks a major step forward. Watch the full video for Bambawale's insights on the agreement and its impact on Indo-China relations.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is visiting Kazan, Russia, from October 22-23 to attend the 16th BRICS Summit, hosted by Russia. The summit's theme is "Strengthening Multilateralism for Just Global Development and Security." Ahead of his arrival, Indian diaspora members have welcomed him with billboards in the city. Modi's visit is at the invitation of Russian President Vladimir Putin and emphasizes India's commitment to close cooperation and reformed multilateralism with BRICS nations. During the summit, Modi is expected to engage in bilateral meetings with leaders from other BRICS countries and invited leaders. This visit highlights the significance of India-Russia relations and the role of BRICS in addressing global challenges. Modi will conclude his trip and return to India on October 23, following the discussions aimed at enhancing collaboration among member nations for sustainable development and security.
India and China have reached an agreement on patrolling arrangements along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), resolving issues that emerged after the 2020 Ladakh border clash, which resulted in the deaths of 20 Indian soldiers. Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri announced the breakthrough, highlighting ongoing diplomatic and military communication between the two sides. The announcement came ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Kazan, Russia, for the BRICS Summit, where he may meet Chinese President Xi Jinping. The summit, themed "Strengthening Multilateralism for Just Global Development and Security," will focus on global cooperation and BRICS initiatives.
Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has cancelled his trip to Russia for the BRICS summit due to medical advice following a head injury sustained at home. He will now participate via videoconference. A medical report confirmed that Lula should avoid long-distance flights but can continue his regular duties. The BRICS group, which includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, and new members like Egypt and Iran, is set to meet from October 22-24 in Kazan. Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that the group will play a significant role in driving global economic growth and emphasized its openness to new members. The summit is being framed as a demonstration of Russia's resilience against Western isolation efforts stemming from its actions in Ukraine. Leaders from China, India, and the UAE have confirmed their attendance, underscoring the group's growing influence in global politics and trade.
In this video, we explore the recent surge in gold prices, which have reached a fresh high of $2,732.73 per ounce. With uncertainties surrounding the U.S. elections, rising tensions in the Middle East, and rate cuts by major central banks, gold is becoming a favored safe-haven investment. We also discuss the implications of these developments on the silver market, which has hit a near 12-year peak. Stay tuned for insights on what this means for investors!
Large explosions and a fire were reported near Beirut's international airport on the night of 20 October, filling the area with thick smoke. Planes had landed shortly before the blasts, as observed from nearby Baabda, amid escalating tensions between the Israeli army and Hezbollah. Following Israel's warnings of impending attacks on sites associated with Hezbollah's financial operations, hundreds of residents fled their homes late on Sunday. A flight from Dubai landed at Beirut's International Airport in the early hours of Monday, approximately 30 to 40 minutes after the explosions occurred, with smoke still visible during its descent. There was no immediate information on the cause of the explosions or any potential casualties. Witnesses reported that panicked crowds clogged the streets, causing traffic jams as people sought refuge in neighbourhoods they believed to be safer. The situation highlights the growing instability in the region.
Hurricane Oscar made landfall on 20 October, bringing strong winds and heavy rain to eastern Cuba, complicating efforts to restore power after a severe nationwide blackout. The storm's winds reached 75 mph (120 kph), prompting warnings of an "extremely dangerous situation." In response to the hurricane and the ongoing energy crisis, the Cuban government cancelled schools through 23 October and advised only essential workers to report to work. Power had been restored to 160,000 residents in Havana just before the grid collapsed again. The blackout, caused by the shutdown of a major power plant, left millions without electricity, exacerbating existing shortages of food, fuel, and water. Protests erupted in Havana as frustrated citizens demanded action to restore power. The government has attributed the crisis to deteriorating infrastructure, rising demand, and reduced fuel shipments from key suppliers like Venezuela, alongside the impact of U.S. sanctions.
The Israeli military released footage showing Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar and his family hours before the October 7 attack on Israel. The video, recorded on October 6 in Khan Younis, depicts Sinwar, along with his children and wife, moving through a tunnel with supplies. Israeli officials reported Sinwar's DNA was found near the site where six Israeli hostages were discovered dead. During a briefing, the IDF presented another video showing Sinwar's last moments before being killed by tank shelling. Sinwar was 61 and a key figure behind the October 7 attack, which resulted in significant casualties. The conflict continues, with hostages and heavy Palestinian casualties reported.
Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump visited a McDonald's in suburban Philadelphia on 20 October, attempting to work at the french fries station and drive-thru window. The former president told the owner of the McDonald's in Bucks County that he was "looking for a job" and had always wanted to work at the fast food restaurant. On the same day, Trump attended an NFL game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the New York Jets in the battleground state of Pennsylvania. The former U.S. president raised his fists as Steelers fans chanted, "USA! USA!". Located just 79 miles (127 km) west of Philadelphia, the rolling hills of Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, hosted a town hall where Trump engaged with supporters outside the Lancaster Convention Center. Enthusiastic attendees lined up to hear him answer questions from voters. With the U.S. presidential election just over two weeks away, the former president is looking to capitalise on what he perceives as an improved standing in opinion polls, which indicate a tightly contested race.
Ukraine launched an overnight drone attack on a key Russian explosives factory near Nizhny Novgorod, located 750 km from the border. Kyiv targeted the Sverdlov plant, a major producer of military explosives sanctioned by the US and EU. While Russian officials confirmed the attack, they claimed it was repelled, with four workers suffering minor injuries. Footage showed explosions, though it remains unverified. Ukraine did not reveal the extent of damage. Meanwhile, Russia downed 110 Ukrainian drones and attacked residential areas in Kryvyi Rig, wounding 17, and hit an energy facility in Sumy, cutting power for over 37,000 people.
Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's private residence in Caesarea was targeted in a drone attack from Lebanon earlier this morning on October 19. Responding to the attack, the Israeli Prime Minister issued a direct warning to the attackers stating that Israel was going to win the war.
US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin urged Israel to scale back airstrikes in and around Beirut, citing high civilian casualties. He advocated for transitioning towards negotiations to allow civilians on both sides to return home. Tens of thousands of people have fled Beirut’s southern suburbs, a Hezbollah stronghold, since Israeli strikes began three weeks ago. Austin also addressed concerns about North Korea possibly sending troops to Russia to support the war in Ukraine but couldn't confirm the reports. South Korea claims 1,500 North Korean troops have been sent, though NATO says there's no evidence yet of their involvement. Both Russia and North Korea deny the allegations.
On October 18, Donald Trump campaigned in Michigan, pledging to "make Detroit great again" as he courted voters in the key battleground state. A microphone glitch disrupted his speech for about 20 minutes, forcing him to pace on stage before resuming. With its 15 Electoral College votes, Michigan is crucial for both Trump and Kamala Harris, who are vying for Arab American, senior, union, and working-class voters. Harris is adjusting her campaign strategy and enlisting Michelle Obama to campaign in Michigan. Recent polling shows Harris' lead over Trump narrowing, amid concerns over high food prices and immigration fears.
Israeli hostages in Gaza will not return until "the aggression" on the besieged Palestinian enclave stops and Israeli forces withdraw Khalil Al-Hayya, deputy Gaza Hamas chief and the group's chief negotiator, said on Friday, after he mourned Hamas's leader. Watch here for more details -
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Thursday (October 17) the death of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar offered the chance of peace in the Middle East but warned that the war in Gaza was not over and Israel would continue until its hostages were returned. And today, as we promised to do, we have settled the score with him. Today evil has suffered a severe blow, but the task before us is not yet complete," Netanyahu said in a recorded video statement.
For Yuliia Baibak the decision to evacuate came following a strike by a Russian bomb in her Kupiansk apartment. The evacuation came as Ukrainian officials declared mandatory evacuation from people's homes in Kupiansk. "Either we evacuate or we will be killed here,” Baibak told her parents. Her mother-in-law and her husband were killed in Kupiansk. Ukrainian authorities ordered the evacuation of a key city and three other localities in northeastern Kharkiv region October 15 as Russian forces press closer and officials face difficulties in providing services through the winter. Kharkiv Regional Governor Oleh Syniehubov, speaking near an evacuation centre in Kharkiv, said the evacuation order was mandatory.
At the annual Al Smith dinner on October 17, Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump targeted Democrat Kamala Harris and New York Mayor Eric Adams while discussing his legal challenges. The gala, a longstanding bipartisan tradition benefiting Catholic charities, is known for light-hearted political jabs. Harris, campaigning in Wisconsin, became the first major party candidate to skip the event since Walter Mondale in 1984, prompting Trump to mock her absence. In a pre-recorded video, Harris emphasized the importance of unity. Melania Trump made a rare appearance alongside her husband, as recent polls showed Trump leading Harris among Catholic voters in battleground states.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky presented his "victory plan" to the European Union on October 17, pitching for a NATO membership invitation and a major increase in military support for Kyiv's campaign against Russia's invasion. Addressing leaders of the European Union's 27 member countries at a summit in Brussels, Zelensky also called for more military aid for Ukraine's fight against Russia's invasion. “If we start now and follow the Victory Plan, we can end this war no later than next year," Zelensky said. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky explained on October 17 Kyiv's aspiration to join NATO to Donald Trump when they met and that the U.S. presidential candidate "agreed" with his arguments. "I told him: What is the way out – either Ukraine will have nuclear weapons, and then this is defence for us, or we should have some kind of an alliance," the Ukrainian leader said during a press conference in Brussels.
Yahya Sinwar, the chief architect of the Oct. 7 attack on Israel that triggered the Gaza war, eliminated. Middle East Security expert Jonathan Lord suggested that Sinwar’s death could offer an “off-ramp” to the current crisis. He expressed hope that new leadership might seek to end the conflict with Sinwar out of the way. Lord said that Khaled Meshaal, who ran Hamas from 2004 to 2017, is considered to be the frontrunner after Sinwar’s death. The Israeli Defence Forces reported killing Sinwar in an operation in southern Gaza.
Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar has been killed by Israeli troops, according to Israel on Thursday. Sinwar was the mastermind of the Oct. 7, 2023 attack that triggered the Gaza war. His killing is a huge success for Israel and a pivotal event in the year-long conflict. There are a number of possible scenarios for what happens next but Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the war will go on. The Israeli military said it had killed Sinwar in an operation in the southern Gaza Strip on Wednesday. There was no immediate comment from Hamas. Families of the Israeli and foreign hostages still held in Gaza welcomed the news about Sinwar but repeated their call for a deal to bring the hostages home. Sinwar was named as Hamas' overall leader following the assassination of political chief Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran in July. There were reactions coming from global leaders from around the world. Here are a few reactions on elimination of Yahya Sinwar.
During his historic visit to Pakistan for the SCO summit, Indian EAM S Jaishankar earned widespread praise from Pakistani journalists and political experts. Admired for his diplomacy and sharp wit, Jaishankar was hailed as a "seasoned diplomat" by political analyst Qamar Cheema, while journalist Hamid Mir praised his powerful statements.
Michael Koubi, a former Shin Bet official, shares chilling details of his 180-hour interrogation of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar. Known as "The Butcher from Khan Younis," Sinwar is described as a ruthless, rational figure, devoted to Israel's destruction.
At a rally in Green Bay, Wisconsin, Kamala Harris acknowledged that the U.S. presidential election would be "a tight race until the very end," emphasising her commitment to winning "every single vote" and serving all Americans. Polls, both public and internal, show a statistical dead heat between Harris and Donald Trump in key battleground states. While national polls indicate Harris has regained suburban and middle-class voters, internal polls show her within the margin of error in crucial states like Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, and Michigan. Harris leads slightly in Wisconsin, is tied in Pennsylvania, but trails Trump in Michigan, sparking internal debate.
Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar, mastermind of the October 7 Gaza attack, was killed by Israeli forces in a southern Gaza operation. Israel confirmed Sinwar’s death, with Defence Minister Yoav Gallant calling it the resolution of a "years-long score," labeling Sinwar a key terrorist behind the attack that killed many innocent Israelis. Western leaders expressed hope that his death could provide a chance to end the war, but Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the conflict would continue until hostages were returned. While Hamas has not officially commented, families of hostages remain fearful, and Gaza residents cling to hopes of self-determination.
Jemima Goldsmith, ex-wife of former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, voiced concerns on X about his harsh treatment in prison. She revealed that Pakistani authorities have halted all family and lawyer visits to Imran, cut off his communication with his sons, and subjected him to solitary confinement in the dark. Lawyers are worried about his safety. Jemima also condemned the targeting of Imran's family and political party members, including the arrests of his sisters and nephew. Imran, jailed since August 2023 on numerous charges, was also denied a medical examination by his physician. Jemima called for their immediate release.
In an October 16 interview with Fox News, Kamala Harris promised a distinct break from Joe Biden's presidency, emphasising her own leadership style and fresh ideas. She clashed with host Bret Baier on issues like immigration, repeatedly asking to finish her responses. Harris stressed that her presidency would not continue Biden's, drawing on her unique experiences. She criticised Donald Trump for using divisive rhetoric, particularly regarding military threats against internal enemies. When pressed on the border crisis, Harris blamed Republicans for blocking a bipartisan solution, accusing Trump of politicising immigration instead of resolving it. The interview aimed to appeal to Republican voters.
The escalating diplomatic tensions between India and Canada, triggered by Canadian PM Justin Trudeau's allegations against India regarding Hardeep Nijjar's death, have raised concerns for Indian students and immigration consultants. With India summoning the Canadian High Commissioner and expelling six diplomats, many fear that their work and study plans in Canada may be jeopardized. Tune in for an in-depth analysis of how this diplomatic row could impact those seeking opportunities in Canada.
In a groundbreaking visit, India's External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar traveled to Pakistan for the SCO Summit 2024, marking the first visit by an Indian EAM in nearly a decade. After his two-day stay, he expressed gratitude to Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and the government for their hospitality. During the summit, Jaishankar emphasized India's strong stance against terrorism and extremism while highlighting key goals for the SCO. Watch for insights on this historic diplomatic engagement and Jaishankar's impactful address.
Former One Direction singer Liam Payne has died outside a hotel in Buenos Aires, Argentina, local police confirmed on Wednesday (October 16). The 31-year-old British musician was found dead after falling from the balcony of his third-floor hotel room. In a statement, the police said they were called to the hotel in the capital's leafy Palermo neighbourhood, having been informed about an "aggressive man who could be under the effects of drugs and alcohol." Emergency services confirmed the death of the singer, who was reportedly found in the hotel's interior patio. "Our hearts are absolutely broken and we wish much light and strength for his family and loved ones," MTV's Latin American branch posted on social media platform X. Payne achieved global fame as a member of the now-disbanded pop band One Direction, alongside Harry Styles, Zayn Malik, Niall Horan, and Louis Tomlinson. The boy band first gained recognition after finishing third on the British version of the X Factor music competition in 2010, but they split in 2016 as the members pursued various individual projects, including solo careers.
A memorial service was held in Washington for Ethel Kennedy, human rights advocate and widow of Robert F. Kennedy, who died at age 96. US President Joe Biden, former Presidents Bill Clinton and Barack Obama, and other prominent figures honoured her life and legacy. Biden praised her for supporting him during his personal tragedies, calling her a hero in her own right. The service included musical tributes from Kenny Chesney, Sting, and Stevie Wonder. Ethel Kennedy raised 11 children and continued her husband's work on social justice, poverty, and the environment. Obama awarded her the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2014.
U.S. Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris defended her record as a prosecutor, pledged to decriminalize marijuana and push for police reform as she aimed to shore up support among Black men in an interview with radio host Charlamagne tha God on Tuesday.
The U.S. is deploying its THAAD anti-missile system to Israel to bolster defenses after an Iranian missile attack. THAAD intercepts ballistic missiles at high altitudes using kinetic energy and can engage missiles both inside and outside the atmosphere. The system, operated by 100 U.S. troops, integrates with other U.S. defenses like Aegis and Patriot systems. Amid ongoing conflict, Israel assured the U.S. it won’t strike Iranian nuclear or oil sites. Iran has warned of retaliation if Israeli attacks persist, escalating tensions in the region.
As India-Canada tensions rise over the Nijjar controversy, Russian state media RT pokes fun at Canadian PM Justin Trudeau with a Bollywood-style meme. The clip, showing Trudeau 'dancing' for Khalistani extremists' votes, has taken the internet by storm. Find out more about this hilarious roast amid the ongoing diplomatic row!
The United Nations has announced that its peacekeeping forces will remain in southern Lebanon, despite Israel's requests for their withdrawal amid military operations in the region. UN officials informed reporters that the decision to keep peacekeepers in their operational area was backed by the UN Security Council and its member states. Earlier, the Security Council expressed "strong concern" on Monday regarding Israel's attacks on UN peacekeepers in southern Lebanon, known as UNIFIL. Reports indicate that at least five UNIFIL personnel have been injured in separate Israeli strikes, prompting international condemnation. Italy, the UK, France, and Germany issued a joint statement reminding Israel that deliberate attacks on peacekeepers violate international law.
Germany secured a spot in the UEFA Nations League quarter-finals with a 1-0 victory over the Netherlands, thanks to Jamie Leweling's debut goal. Despite an early disallowed goal, Leweling scored the winning goal at the 64th minute. Germany finished with 10 points, while theNetherlands, missing Virgil van Dijk, remained on five points with Hungary, who won 2-0 against Bosnia and Herzegovina. Italy topped Group A2 with a 4-1 win over Israel, and France defeated Belgium 2-1, with Randal Kolo Muani netting both goals in the absence of Kylian Mbappe. Turkey also won 4-2 against Iceland to stay atop Group B4.
The ongoing tensions between India and Canada have resurfaced discussions about a statement made by Indian External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar on June 8, 2023. He addressed reports of celebrations in Canada regarding the assassination of former PM Indira Gandhi, expressing confusion over such actions and linking them to "vote bank politics." He said, "I think there is a bigger issue involved. Frankly, we are at a loss to understand other than the requirements of vote bank politics why anybody would do this. I think there is a larger underlying issue about the space which is given to separatists, to extremists, to people who advocate violence. I think it is not good for relationships, not good for Canada." Further, he also responded to a question about comments by Canada’s NSA that India interferes in domestic politics. He said, “The phrase which came to my mind was 'Ulta chor kotwal ko daante..."
A man arrested at a security checkpoint near Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump's California rally on Saturday (October 12) faces gun charges after he was found in possession of loaded firearms, multiple passports and a fake license plate, the local sheriff said on Sunday. The US Attorney's Los Angeles office, in a statement on its website on Sunday, also said Trump was not in danger, citing the US secret service. The statement added that while no federal arrest had been made, an investigation is ongoing. Trump's rally on Saturday took place in the Coachella Valley, an area known for its annual music and arts festival.
As the 2024 election campaign gains momentum, Donald Trump vowed to hire 10,000 additional border patrol agents if re-elected at a rally in Prescott Valley, Arizona. He also said, "I’m calling for the death penalty for any migrant who kills an American citizen or law enforcement officer." Trump escalated his criticism of Vice President Kamala Harris's immigration policies, promising tougher border enforcement. He pledged a 10% pay raise and a $10,000 signing bonus to recruit and retain agents. Joined by Border Patrol Union leaders, Trump positioned himself as the strongest candidate on illegal immigration, a top voter concern, having blocked a bipartisan border security bill earlier this year.
In a bold address to Lebanon, Israeli PM Netanyahu announced the elimination of Hezbollah leader Nasrallah’s successor and urged the Lebanese people to reclaim their country from Hezbollah. He declared that the Iran-backed group is now weaker than it has been in years.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un said his country will speed up steps toward becoming a military superpower with nuclear weapons and would not rule out using them if it came under enemy attack, state news agency KCNA said on Tuesday. Kim mentioned South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol by name for the second time in a week in denouncing Seoul for colluding with Washington to destabilise the region to gloss over the fact it does not even have proper strategic weapons.
At a rally in Washington, D.C., on October 7, Republican vice presidential nominee J.D. Vance marked the anniversary of the Israel-Hamas conflict, stating that the day symbolizes not only attacks against Israel but also an attack against America. He criticized President Biden and Vice President Harris for their inaction in ending the war and securing the release of hostages, urging immediate action. Vance’s remarks come amidst ongoing tensions and violence in the region, highlighting the humanitarian impact of the conflict.
The Dallas Cowboys faced a formidable challenge heading into their Sunday night matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers. With a depleted defence and a weather delay adding to the complications, the odds were stacked against them. However, in a display of resilience and determination, the Cowboys managed to secure a hard-fought victory, improving their record 3-2. Already shorthanded due to several defensive absences, their challenge was intensified by a lengthy weather delay, stretching over an hour and a half, at Acrisure Stadium. The defence faced further strain when Marshawn Kneeland, a substitute for DeMarcus Lawrence and Micah Parsons, exited early with a knee injury. Meanwhile, Dak Prescott had a rough outing, fumbling once and throwing a red-zone interception, eventually contributing a third turnover in the second half.
Donald Trump returned to rural Pennsylvania on October 5, one month before the November 5 election, to rally supporters in a critical battleground state. During the event, he recalled the July 13 assassination attempt, where a bullet grazed him. Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla and a recent Trump supporter joined him on stage. Trump honored firefighter Corey Comperatore, who was killed during the July 13 attack and vowed to protect Social Security and Medicare while capping credit card interest rates at 10%. The rally drew tens of thousands of attendees, with chants of "fight, fight, fight" echoing throughout
Former president Donald Trump talked up a strike on Iran's nuclear facilities at a North Carolina rally on Friday (October 4). Israel has been weighing options in its response to Iran's ballistic missile attack this week, which Iran had carried out in response to Israel's military action in Lebanon. Also at the North Carolina rally, Trump accused the Biden administration of mishandling hurricane response. Once-in-a-generation floods triggered by Hurricane Helene killed dozens in the state's western mountains, and Trump likened the response to the one following hurricane Katrina. Trump drew cheers from the crowd when he declared that if elected, he would seek to change the name of the state's sprawling military base, Fort Liberty, back to Fort Bragg. The name was changed to Fort Liberty in 2023 to end using its Confederate namesake.
Vice President Kamala Harris was joined by basketball superstar Magic Johnson on Friday (October 4) at a rally in Flint Michigan where Johnson said this is, "the Year of the Woman," with Mexico electing its first female President this year. "Let's make sure that we, here in the United States, we elect our first woman President, Kamala Harris," Johnson told a cheering crowd. Harris targeted Trump in her remarks, saying that manufacturing jobs in Michigan were lost during the Trump Administration. Earlier, Harris met with Arab American and Muslim leaders in Flint, Michigan, as her presidential campaign seeks to win back voters angry at U.S. support for Israel's wars in Gaza and Lebanon, two sources said.
On October 4, the Kremlin accused Ukrainian authorities of "playing with fire" after Russian forces intercepted a Ukrainian drone near the Kursk nuclear plant, with reports of a fire occurring several miles away. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated that this situation would be reported to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). In response, Ukrainian Foreign Ministry spokesman Heorhiy Tykhyi denied any Ukrainian weapon fire aimed at or near the plant. Ukrainian forces had previously entered the Kursk region in a surprise cross-border incursion on August 6 and continue to maintain their presence despite ongoing Russian military efforts to expel them.
Tensions in the Middle East have escalated after Iran launched 181 missiles at Israel in retaliation for the assassination of Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed that Iran would "pay the price" for its actions, and the Israeli Defence Forces have promised a response at a time of their choosing. Former Israeli PM Naftali Bennett called for targeting Iran’s nuclear facilities, intensifying fears of a full-scale war. Despite the US urging caution, analysts suggest Israel may act more decisively this time, potentially triggering a broader conflict that could involve other regional and global powers.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken stated on Tuesday, October 1, that the US is closely monitoring events in the Middle East and remains committed to Israel's defence following Iran's ballistic missile attack. Iran launched around 200 ballistic missiles at Israel, marking the second direct attack in five months. Blinken condemned the assault as unacceptable and called for global condemnation. He also praised Israel's successful defence, supported by the US and other partners, in repelling the attack. Blinken made these remarks ahead of a meeting with Indian External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar in Washington