A bus crash involving university students and a minivan in northern Malaysia resulted in at least 15 fatalities. The incident occurred near Gerik on the East-West Highway, marking the deadliest road accident in Malaysia in over a decade.
Israel retrieved the body of a Thai hostage from Gaza as military operations continue, resulting in 95 deaths in the past 24 hours. The Thai national, taken during an attack led by Hamas, was working in agriculture. The search for two other Thai citizen bodies continues.
Kilmar Abrego Garcia, returned to the U.S. from El Salvador, faces charges of unlawfully transporting individuals. His case highlights legal issues in immigration enforcement.
Taiwan has accused China of conducting a provocative military patrol involving warplanes and warships near the island, escalating regional tensions. Taiwan’s defense ministry reported the detection of 21 Chinese military aircraft, including J-16 fighters, engaging with warships.
Indonesia’s Health Ministry has alerted healthcare facilities of a Covid-19 surge in Asia, attributing the increase to a more transmissible yet less deadly Omicron sub-variant. Health Minister Budi Gunadi Sadikin and President Prabowo Subianto discussed the situation, emphasizing heightened surveillance.
Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah of Brunei returned home after being discharged from a Malaysian hospital. He was hospitalized due to fatigue last week. The Sultan, along with his consort, met Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim prior to departing.
Vietnam has eliminated its two-child policy, allowing families more autonomy in deciding their size. The move comes as the country grapples with a declining birth rate, with the fertility rate dropping below replacement level. This policy shift marks a significant change in Vietnam’s approach to family planning.
Liberal candidate Lee Jae-myung is forecasted to win South Korea’s presidential election according to joint exit polls by major TV stations. The polls show Lee with 51.7% of votes, surpassing conservative candidate Kim Moon Soo’s 39.3%. This election comes two months after former President Yoon Suk Yeol’s removal over martial law imposition.
China accuses the U.S. of violating a May trade truce amid escalating tensions. Following President Trump’s claims of breach, the dispute impacts global trade. Both nations remain at odds over tariffs and trade terms. The situation raises concerns about economic stability and market reactions worldwide.
Ukraine and Russia hold peace talks in Istanbul after mutual military escalations. High-stakes negotiations aim to de-escalate tensions following Ukraine’s drone strikes on Russian bases and Russia’s targeted response.