Malaysian authorities have busted a syndicate involved in smuggling prohibited goods, including drugs, cigarettes, and contraband, into Malaysia from neighboring countries. The five suspects allegedly received bribes of RM30,000 to RM50,000 each for their involvement. Authorities seized over RM63,000 in cash, packets of drugs, weighing equipment, liquor, and imitation firearms during the raids. An Indonesian woman without valid travel documents was also arrested during the operation.
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu has endorsed Trump's suggestion to expel Gaza's two million people to Egypt and Jordan, a move that would recall the "Nakba" or catastrophe of 1948. Diplomatic efforts aimed at securing a ceasefire have stalled, with mediation led by Qatar, Egypt, and the US failing to secure a breakthrough since a short-lived truce earlier this year. Netanyahu opposes the staggered release of hostages, instead wanting all hostages returned as part of an end to the war under his conditions. Israel has intensified its air strikes on Gaza City, killing at least 33 people in recent days, with the bombardment described as "extremely intense" by a resident.
Netanyahu's plan to expand military control over Gaza has sparked global outrage, with 21 deaths and 185 injuries reported in the past 24 hours as Palestinians attempted to access humanitarian aid. The total death toll since May 27 stands at 1,859, including 235 related to starvation, while Israel's military operations have killed 10,201 people and injured 42,484 since March 18. International pressure mounts on Israel, with the ICC issuing arrest warrants for Netanyahu and Gallant, and a genocide case filed at the ICJ. Israeli planes and tanks continue to bombard eastern Gaza City, killing at least 11 people, as Hamas leader Khalil Al-Hayya arrives in Cairo to revive a US-backed ceasefire plan.
New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham has signed a proclamation declaring August 24, 2025, as Ukraine's Independence Day. Ambassador Markarova thanked the Governor's Office and supporters in New Mexico for their backing of Ukraine's struggle for freedom and democracy. She also praised the Consulate General of Ukraine in Houston for its role in strengthening Ukrainian-American cooperation. This move follows a trend of over 30 US states recognizing the Holodomor, a genocide of the Ukrainian people, from 1932-33.
The installation is part of an effort to raise awareness about the "plastic flood" issue, featuring a turtle, dolphin, and person about to swallow plastic waste. Greenpeace and other NGOs are calling for strong agreements to address the problem. Nigeria, including Lagos, is among countries attending this initiative, where 2,500 tonnes of plastic waste are generated daily, despite a recent ban on single-use plastics.
The Philippines' military has denied a fabricated video showing a stand-off with the Malaysian navy over disputed Sabah waters and fishing rights. The Armed Forces of the Philippines confirmed that a guided missile frigate, BRP General Antonio Luna, was deployed to Malaysia for a joint military exercise in Penang. A 12-minute YouTube video claiming the incident never occurred has been described as "fabricated" with AI-generated images.
The RFoM has urged OSCE participating States to fully implement their commitments on media freedom, particularly the safety of journalists. The office stressed that journalists have civilian status under International Humanitarian Law and must be afforded protection. However, it did not directly address the case of UNIAN journalist Dmytro Khyliuk, who was captured by Russian troops in Ukraine's Kyiv region in March 2022. At least 30 Ukrainian civilian media workers are reportedly being illegally held by Russia.
The international community is urging donor countries to inform their governments about Russian citizens involved in the Kremlin's military programs, aiming to ban such practices through diplomatic pressure. The recruitment of labor migrants, often using fraudulent methods, may be considered human trafficking. Russia, a signatory to the UN Convention against Transnational Organized Crime, must take action on this issue. Producing weapons for aggression against Ukraine poses moral and security risks to Russian defense sector employees, who could become targets in military operations. Sanctions, pressure, and oversight can limit Russia's access to labor, hindering its military production and threatening European security.
A report suggests that the global economy is facing significant threats due to Russian oil disruptions. According to the report, Russia's actions are causing a shortage of crude oil, leading to increased prices and economic instability worldwide. India, however, is estimated to be bearing a manageable burden of around $5 billion annually as a result of these disruptions.