Location · 893 published stories · 314 outlets · All places
China has condemned Japan's first overseas firing of the Type 88 surface-to-ship missile during the Balikatan drills in the Philippines, calling it a sign of 'neo-militarism.' Japan is easing arms export restrictions, with the Philippines expressing interest in acquiring the missile. Analysts note the Type 88 is being phased out, making the move largely symbolic.
South Korea's main stock index, the KOSPI, surged past the 7,000-point level for the first time in history, closing at 7,384.56, as technology stocks rallied on expectations of high demand for AI-related chips and on optimism that the Middle East conflict would remain contained. The index has been on a record-breaking run, surpassing 6,600 last week and closing over 6,900 earlier this week.
Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has called for 'advanced discussions' on revising Japan's pacifist constitution, as the country witnesses its largest anti-war protests in decades. Opinion polls show deep public divisions, with protesters, including a growing number of women, expressing alarm over what they see as a drift away from post-war pacifism.
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth called on South Korea, Japan, Australia, and European nations to contribute to securing the Strait of Hormuz, emphasizing that the US mission is temporary and allies must share the burden. The US has imposed a naval blockade on Iran and launched 'Project Freedom' to restore safe passage, with President Trump also pressing Seoul to participate.
The conflict between US-Israel and Iran has triggered a global oil shock, with the Strait of Hormuz at the center. Pakistan faces soaring fuel prices and a ballooning import bill, while India projects slower growth. Analysts warn of long-term economic vulnerabilities.
Formula 1 could reduce the role of electrical power as early as 2027, with FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem pushing for a return to traditional V8 engines by 2030 or 2031. The moves follow backlash from drivers and fans over the current 50-50 combustion-electric split.
Japan has taken delivery of its first cargo of Russian oil in almost a year, with the Omani-flagged tanker Voyager arriving at ports in western Japan. The purchases by Japanese companies Taiyo Oil and Idemitsu are part of efforts to diversify supply sources amid the closure of the Strait of Hormuz and escalating situation around Iran.
During a three-day visit to Canberra, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese signed multiple agreements to deepen cooperation on energy, defence, and critical minerals, including a joint declaration on economic security. The moves come amid shared concerns about economic coercion, China's growing power, and shifting US priorities in the region.
Aderlin Rodriguez, signed as a temporary injury replacement by the Kia Tigers, became the first player in KBO history to hit a home run in each of his first four career games. The 34-year-old slugger, who inked a six-week deal worth US$50,000, has provided an immediate offensive boost while filling in for injured outfielder Harold Castro.
Israel's air force expansion, including additional F-35 purchases and extensive combat operations since October 7, 2023, is positioning the nation as a major military power. The IDF reported dropping 135,000 bombs and performing thousands of evacuations, while analysts note regional wariness of Israel's growing capabilities.
Multiple US Air Force C-17 transport planes have landed at Beijing Capital International Airport, carrying vehicles and equipment associated with the presidential motorcade, according to reports from the South China Morning Post. The movements are seen as preparations for President Donald Trump's upcoming visit to China. Social media images show black SUVs with US government plates on Beijing highways, and Air Force One has also landed, marking the start of a major diplomatic summit.
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has called for a greater role of young people in party affairs, while state media reported plans to deploy new long-range artillery near the border with South Korea. The announcements come amid ongoing tensions and diplomatic exchanges.
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi visited Hanoi, signing six agreements with Vietnam focused on energy, critical minerals, and technology. Takaichi pledged $10 billion for energy security and set a target of $5 billion in annual investment, as both nations seek to diversify supply chains amid regional tensions.
Japanese police arrested Tatsuya Suzuki on suspicion of incinerating his wife's body at the zoo where he worked, using an incinerator meant for animal waste. The victim, Yui Suzuki, had reportedly told relatives her husband threatened to burn her without a trace. The Asahiyama Zoo delayed its reopening but resumed operations with an apology.
Ministers and experts from more than 50 countries gathered in Santa Marta for the first conference dedicated to transitioning away from coal, oil and gas. Hosted by Colombia and the Netherlands, the talks produced agreed outcomes and plans for further cooperation, even as major emitters stayed away and details of the next meeting remain unsettled.
Malaysian minister Arthur Joseph Kurup called for three elephants sent to Japan's Tennoji Zoo to be brought home, as a viral video appeared to show the animals weeping when addressed in Malay by visitors, sparking a public protest and debate over wildlife welfare.
Australia has confirmed it is in discussions with the US over a proposal to form an international coalition to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. Foreign Minister Penny Wong says Australia is engaging with partners including the UK, France, and the US, while reports indicate Australia may contribute its E-7A Wedgetail aircraft to a related mission.
The World Press Freedom Index hits a new low as more than half of all countries now face 'difficult' or 'very serious' conditions for journalists. The US continues its slide, while only a handful of Nordic nations maintain 'good' press freedom.
Finance Minister Koo Yun-cheol participated in ASEAN+3 and ADB meetings in Samarkand, urging regional cooperation amid Middle East conflict, and held bilateral talks with Uzbek President and Japanese counterpart.
Myanmar’s new president, Min Aung Hlaing, has approved a sweeping amnesty that reduces the prison sentence of deposed leader Aung San Suu Kyi and releases thousands of prisoners, including former President Win Myint. The moves, tied to the Buddhist New Year, have been met with skepticism from analysts and citizens who see them as cosmetic gestures rather than genuine reform.