In a significant development regarding the fragile ceasefire in Gaza, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced on Sunday that Israel will have the final say on which foreign forces are acceptable to participate in a planned international force. This force is part of U.S. President Donald Trump’s 20-point plan to stabilize the region post-truce. Netanyahu emphasized Israel’s sovereignty in security matters, stating, ‘We are in control of our security, and we will determine which forces are unacceptable to us.’ The Trump administration has ruled out deploying U.S. troops but has engaged with countries like Indonesia, the UAE, Egypt, Qatar, Turkey, and Azerbaijan to contribute to the multinational force. However, Israel has explicitly opposed Turkish involvement due to strained relations following Turkey’s criticism of Israel’s military campaign in Gaza. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, during his visit to Israel, reiterated that the force must consist of ‘countries that Israel is comfortable with.’ A major hurdle remains Hamas’s refusal to disarm, a key requirement of Trump’s plan. Meanwhile, Israel continues to control access to Gaza, and efforts are underway to locate the remains of 13 deceased hostages still in Hamas’s possession. Netanyahu also dismissed claims that U.S. administration dictates Israel’s security policy, emphasizing the partnership between the two nations.
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The striking Swedish workers taking on carmaker Tesla
In Sweden, a protracted labor dispute between Tesla and its workforce has reached a critical juncture. For two years, 70 car mechanics, represented by the Swedish union IF Metall, have been on strike at Tesla’s 10 service centers across the country. The strike, which began on October 27, 2023, centers on the union’s demand for a collective agreement to negotiate pay and working conditions on behalf of its members—a cornerstone of Sweden’s industrial culture. Despite the ongoing industrial action, Tesla has continued operations by replacing striking workers, a move unprecedented since the 1930s. Janis Kuzma, a 39-year-old mechanic from Latvia, has been on the picket line since the strike’s inception. He describes the experience as grueling, especially as Sweden’s harsh winter sets in. IF Metall provides basic support, including a mobile van for shelter and refreshments, but the standoff shows no signs of resolution. Tesla’s CEO, Elon Musk, has been vocal in his opposition to unions, describing them as divisive and detrimental to company culture. This stance has put Tesla at odds with Sweden’s labor norms, where 70% of workers are unionized, and 90% are covered by collective agreements. The strike has garnered international attention, with unions in neighboring countries like Denmark, Norway, and Finland refusing to handle Tesla vehicles or provide services. Despite the disruption, Tesla’s popularity in Sweden remains unaffected, with owners still able to purchase, service, and charge their vehicles. Analysts suggest that Tesla’s refusal to concede is driven by Musk’s aversion to external influence and the potential ripple effect of unionization in its U.S. and German facilities. With both sides entrenched, the conflict shows no signs of abating, raising concerns about the future of labor relations in Sweden and beyond.
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Cummins ruled out of first Ashes Test
Australia’s cricket team has confirmed that their star captain and fast bowler, Pat Cummins, will miss the opening Ashes Test due to a persistent back injury. Steve Smith, a seasoned leader and one of the game’s most prolific batsmen, will step in to captain the side in Cummins’ absence. The first Test is scheduled to begin on November 21 in Perth, but Cummins, who has not bowled since July, is yet to resume full training. Cricket Australia announced on Sunday that the 32-year-old is expected to return to bowling soon, with hopes of being fit for the second Test in Brisbane starting December 4. Cummins’ absence is a significant setback for Australia, given his dual role as captain and premier bowler. Reports of his fitness concerns first emerged in September, leading to his withdrawal from the white-ball series against New Zealand and India due to a lumbar stress fracture. Cummins himself acknowledged the tight timeline for recovery, stating he needed at least a month of net practice to regain match fitness. Smith, who previously led Australia to Ashes glory, is a capable replacement. The 36-year-old has captained the team six times in Cummins’ absence and remains a key figure in the squad. In Cummins’ absence, Scott Boland is likely to join Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood in the pace attack. The series, comprising five Tests in just over seven weeks, will test Australia’s depth, with potential call-ups for less experienced players like Michael Neser, Brendan Doggett, or Fergus O’Neill.
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Rohit, Kohli’s 2027 World Cup hopes depend on a big decision
The future of Indian cricket legends Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in the 2027 ODI World Cup remains uncertain, with a pivotal decision looming after India’s upcoming series against South Africa. Indian captain Shubman Gill hinted at the necessity of a significant call following the series, which begins on November 30, 2025. Despite their recent stellar performances in the third ODI against Australia, where Rohit scored an unbeaten 121 and Kohli added 74 not out, questions persist about their long-term roles in the team. Both players, aged 38 and 36 respectively, have been central to Indian cricket for over a decade, but their participation in the next World Cup depends on their ability to maintain form and fitness. The Indian cricket board is reportedly insistent on their participation in domestic cricket, specifically the Vijay Hazare Trophy, to keep them match-ready. Gill acknowledged that discussions regarding their future will take place after the South Africa series, emphasizing the importance of keeping senior players engaged in competitive cricket. The duo’s refusal to retire has kept fans hopeful, but their path to the 2027 World Cup is fraught with challenges, including the need to prove their worth in domestic tournaments and adapt to the evolving dynamics of the team.
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Norris dominates in Mexico to take championship lead
Lando Norris of McLaren seized the championship lead for the first time since April with a commanding performance at the Mexico City Grand Prix. Starting from pole position, Norris maintained his lead into the first corner and dominated the race, finishing a staggering 30 seconds ahead of his closest competitor. This victory marks his sixth win of the season, placing him just one point ahead of teammate Oscar Piastri in the championship standings. Piastri, who started seventh, fought back to secure fifth place, showcasing his resilience after a challenging qualifying session. Meanwhile, Red Bull’s Max Verstappen, who finished third behind Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc, remains 36 points adrift with four races remaining. The race’s climax was marred by a virtual safety car in the final laps, which prevented Verstappen from challenging Leclerc and Piastri from overtaking Haas driver Oliver Bearman. Bearman, a British rookie, delivered an exceptional performance to secure fourth place, his best-ever finish in Formula 1. The race also featured intense battles, including Verstappen’s controversial maneuvers and Hamilton’s penalty for track violations. Norris’s victory underscores his resurgence since a fuel-line failure at the Dutch Grand Prix in August, erasing Piastri’s 34-point lead in just five races. The championship battle now intensifies as the season heads into its final stages.
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China to firmly promote high-level opening-up, continuously optimize business environment, says Premier Li
During his official visit to Singapore on October 26, Chinese Premier Li Qiang emphasized China’s commitment to advancing high-level opening-up, easing market access, and continuously optimizing the business environment. Speaking at a China-Singapore business roundtable, Li highlighted the importance of addressing enterprises’ concerns to foster mutual growth and prosperity. The event, attended by Singapore’s Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong, underscored the deepening economic ties between the two nations. Li reflected on the 35 years of fruitful cooperation between China and Singapore, noting that their development presents significant opportunities for each other. He stressed that mutual respect, trust, and open cooperation are key to shared prosperity. Li also pointed to recent milestones, such as the mutual visa exemption agreement and the upgraded free trade agreement, as catalysts for future collaboration. Looking ahead, Li outlined three strategic areas for enhanced cooperation: transitioning from complementary elements to collaborative innovation, expanding bilateral efforts to tripartite cooperation with regions like ASEAN and Africa, and jointly leading the formulation of global rules in emerging sectors like digital and green industries. Li also highlighted China’s robust economic foundation and its commitment to treating domestic and foreign enterprises equally. Gan Kim Yong echoed these sentiments, reaffirming Singapore’s dedication to advancing a high-quality partnership with China. Business representatives from both countries expressed optimism about China’s development prospects and pledged to deepen cooperation in finance, digital economy, green development, and more.
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Violent protests flare in Cameroon as results due in contested election
Tensions have escalated across Cameroon as supporters of opposition candidate Issa Tchiroma Bakary clashed with security forces in multiple cities, just a day before the official announcement of the presidential election results. The protests, which began in Bakary’s stronghold of Garoua in northern Cameroon, saw police deploying tear gas and water cannons to disperse crowds. Demonstrators accused the ruling Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (CPDM) of attempting to ‘steal the victory’ from Bakary, who claims to have won the October 12 election with approximately 55% of the vote. Incumbent President Paul Biya, who has held power for 43 years, seeks another term, but Bakary has dismissed the CPDM’s claims as illegitimate. Authorities have banned public gatherings until Monday, when the constitutional council is expected to announce the results. The protests, initially peaceful, turned chaotic as security forces intervened. In Douala, another major city, demonstrators chanted support for Bakary, demanding transparency in the electoral process. Bakary, a former government minister and Biya ally, dramatically shifted his stance earlier this year, resigning from the government to challenge Biya. He has refused to file complaints with the constitutional council, whose judges are appointed by Biya, instead declaring himself the ‘legal and legitimate president.’ The election has been marred by allegations of irregularities, including ballot-stuffing, which the constitutional council has dismissed due to insufficient evidence. The unrest underscores deep political divisions in Cameroon, with Bakary’s supporters vowing to continue their fight for electoral justice.
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US government says it will stop paying for food aid next week
The ongoing US government shutdown has led to a critical halt in the distribution of food assistance to over 40 million Americans, as federal funds for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) have been exhausted. The US Department of Agriculture announced the cessation of benefits starting November, attributing the impasse to Senate Democrats. The Trump administration has declined to tap into a contingency fund, citing its necessity for potential emergencies like natural disasters. This decision has sparked outrage among Democratic lawmakers, who have condemned the move as cruel and unlawful. Congresswomen Rosa DeLauro and Angie Craig criticized President Trump for prioritizing aid to Argentina and constructing a new White House ballroom over addressing domestic needs. The Center on Budget and Policy Priorities (CBPP) estimates that the contingency fund would only cover about 60% of one month’s benefits. Democratic House members have urged Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins to release the reserves and reallocate other available funds to fully support SNAP for November. However, Rollins maintains that the reserve is reserved for true emergencies, primarily natural disasters. States are scrambling to mitigate the impact, with some pledging to use their own funds, though the federal government has warned against reimbursement. Massachusetts, where one million people are expected to lose benefits, has admitted to insufficient resources. California is deploying its National Guard to assist in food distribution, while many states are directing SNAP recipients to charity food pantries. The government shutdown, now in its 26th day, marks the second-longest in US history, exacerbating the crisis for millions of vulnerable Americans.
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Yemen’s Houthis release model after five years in prison
Yemeni model and actress Entisar al-Hammadi has been released after nearly five years in detention on charges of indecent behavior, her lawyer confirmed on Sunday. Hammadi, 25, was arrested in February 2021 in Sanaa while en route to a photo shoot. She was subsequently sentenced to five years in prison on allegations of prostitution, drug use, and fornication—claims her legal team and human rights organizations have vehemently dismissed as fabricated and politically motivated to suppress women’s freedoms. Her lawyer, Khaled al-Kamal, revealed that Hammadi was released on Saturday from the central prison in Sanaa. He also noted that her health had significantly deteriorated during her incarceration, as she suffered from various illnesses. Rights groups have reported that the high-profile model attempted to take her own life in 2021, highlighting the severe psychological toll of her imprisonment. Born to an Ethiopian mother and a Yemeni father, Hammadi had gained prominence as a model, sharing numerous photos online in both traditional Yemeni attire and modern outfits, with and without a headscarf. She had worked as a model for four years and appeared in two Yemeni television series in 2020, amassing thousands of followers on Instagram and Facebook. Human Rights Watch (HRW) described her case as ‘marred with irregularities and abuse,’ condemning the court proceedings as arbitrary and lacking due process. Amnesty International further detailed that Hammadi was subjected to blindfolded interrogations, physical and verbal abuse, racist insults, and forced confessions to crimes she did not commit. HRW’s March 2024 report highlighted that warring factions in Yemen, including the Houthis, the internationally recognized government, and the Southern Transitional Council, have systematically curtailed women’s rights in their respective territories. These oppressive policies have severely restricted women’s mobility, access to work, education, healthcare, and their ability to visit family members, underscoring the broader struggle for gender equality in the region.
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Philippine army slams Paolo Duterte over ‘false’ claim of US ties
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) has vehemently refuted allegations made by Davao Representative Paolo ‘Pulong’ Duterte regarding supposed ties with the United States and the deployment of the US Typhon missile system. In a statement issued on Sunday, the AFP labeled Duterte’s claims as ‘false’ and ‘misleading,’ emphasizing that such assertions undermine the military’s integrity and commitment to national sovereignty. Duterte had accused AFP Chief of Staff General Romeo Brawner Jr. of endangering Filipino lives by allegedly boasting about the missile system’s capabilities, which he claimed could reach China. The AFP clarified that General Brawner’s remarks were purely technical, highlighting the system’s range and its role in training and capability-building as part of the AFP’s modernization efforts. The military stressed that the Typhon missile system is not intended to target or threaten any specific nation, including China. The AFP urged public officials and opinion leaders to exercise caution in their statements to prevent the spread of misinformation and distrust. ‘The AFP remains steadfast in its duty to protect the Filipino people and defend the nation’s sovereignty—serving no one but the Filipino, and protecting nothing but the Philippines,’ the statement concluded.