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As Israel polls to elect its Prime Minister on October 27, Benjamin Netanyahu, leader of the nationalistic Likud party and former military chief Gadi Eisenkot, leader of the centrist Yashar party, are the two main rivals to lead the country. Pre-election opinion polls suggest a highly fragmented Knesset, while Eisenkot and Yashar are clearly coming across as favourites to lead the country.&nbsp;The two leaders, though, positioned themselves with contrasting leadership styles and domestic policies, but their core security and foreign policy targets are common. Both candidates strongly reject the two-state solution, pledge to block nuclear Iran and dismantle Hezbollah and Hamas. So for international observers, there is very little room for any manoeuvring, and it's a distinction without any difference.&nbsp;Neither candidate offers Palestinians a state. Netanyahu has built a career on blocking one. In July 2024, the Knesset passed a resolution opposing Palestinian statehood by a wide margin, with support from parts of the opposition. Similarly, Eisenkot calls the two-state formula a mistake.<h2>The clean break memo-1996</h2>Israel is the only country in the world that doesn't define its border, has the strongest military in the region, and controls the territory at the centre of the dispute. That ambiguity has been strategic, and it shows in the buffer zones in southern Syria and Lebanon, the open-ended presence in Gaza, and the settlement build-out in the West Bank.If you trace the ideas, these are not new; they can be found in a paper written in 1996, the “Clean Break” memorandum by a group of Israeli and American neoconservatives for Netanyahu's first term, including Richard Perle and Douglas Feith. It explicitly advised Israel to make a "clean break" from the Oslo Accords. It set aside land-for-peace in favour of "peace for peace" and force. It gave the refusal of statehood a strategic rationale: Israel could hold the territory and manage the threat without a settlement. Once Palestinian claims had faded from public memory, that logic found a receptive audience.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/houthis-claim-missile-strikes-saudi-defence-ministry-ras-tanura-1793112408225">Houthis claim missile strikes on Saudi defence ministry, Ras Tanura refinery</a>Gadi Eisenkot is a direct product of the institutional Israeli security establishment, which shares a foundational worldview with the Clean Break strategy. As Northern Command chief in 2008, he spoke of applying disproportionate force to civilian-linked infrastructure in Lebanon, and is an architect of the approach known as the Dahiya Doctrine. He has since rejected the two-state formula, wants overriding Israeli security control west of the Jordan River, and backs keeping security zones in neighbouring territory.It's not just Eisenkot or Netanyahu; Israeli society as a whole is suffering from historical amnesia; it has erased the memory of the Nakba. Israeli historians, including Benny Morris, Avi Shlaim and Ilan Pappé, documented in the 1980s that roughly 700,000 Palestinians fled or were expelled in 1948, and that villages were destroyed and return was barred. Israel has changed its narrative; they perceive that 1948 was a war launched by Arab states after they rejected partition, in which Israel fought for survival. They think that the Jewish people have a biblical claim to the land, but do not clarify which "Jewish"- is it religious or ethnic.<h2>Netanyahu vs Eisenkot</h2>Netanyahu is purely driven by political survival, whereas Eisenkot is looking for the defining moment of his political career. Victory for Netanyahu means savagery in the short term for Gaza and the West Bank, but in the long term, economic and political isolation of Israel as a country, and the delegitimisation of Western moral and political authority. Western allies face immense domestic political pressure when dealing with his government. But with Eisenkot, Western leaders find a "palatable" partner. He vows to crack down on settler violence and respect international legal frameworks. The election does not change what Israel wants to achieve, but might legitimise Israel's unfair, brutal and illegal occupation of Palestine by changing how Israel behaves as an international actor. A fundamental transformation of the status quo is unlikely, as the political debate within Israel has already shifted from a permanent resolution paradigm of the “Oslo Accords” to optimising “conflict management” of “Clean Break”, maintaining the political and moral legitimacy of the West.&nbsp;

Israel’s election pits Benjamin Netanyahu against Gadi Eisenkot, but their opposition to Palestinian statehood and shared security goals raise questions about prospects for peace.

As Israel polls to elect its Prime Minister on October 27, Benjamin Netanyahu, leader of the nationalistic Likud party and former military chief Gadi Eisenkot, leader of the centrist Yashar party, are the two main rivals to lead the country. Pre-election opinion polls suggest a highly fragmented Knesset, while Eisenkot and Yashar are clearly coming across as favourites to lead the country. The two leaders, though, positioned themselves with contrasting leadership styles and domestic policies, but their core security and foreign policy targets are common. Both candidates strongly reject the two-state solution, pledge to block nuclear Iran and dismantle Hezbollah and Hamas. So for international observers, there is very little room for any manoeuvring, and it's a distinction without any difference. Neither candidate offers Palestinians a state. Netanyahu has built a career on blocking one. In July 2024, the Knesset passed a resolution opposing Palestinian statehood by a wide margin, with support from parts of the opposition. Similarly, Eisenkot calls the two-state formula a mistake. The clean break memo-1996 Israel is the only country in the world that doesn't define its border, has the strongest military in the region, and controls the territory at the centre of the dispute. That ambiguity has been strategic, and it shows in the buffer zones in southern Syria and Lebanon, the open-ended presence in Gaza, and the settlement build-out in the West Bank. If you trace the ideas, these are not new; they can be found in a paper written in 1996, the “Clean Break” memorandum by a group of Israeli and American neoconservatives for Netanyahu's first term, including Richard Perle and Douglas Feith. It explicitly advised Israel to make a "clean break" from the Oslo Accords. It set aside land-for-peace in favour of "peace for peace" and force. It gave the refusal of statehood a strategic rationale: Israel could hold the territory and manage the threat without a settlement. Once Palestinian claims had faded from public memory, that logic found a receptive audience. Also Read: Houthis claim missile strikes on Saudi defence ministry, Ras Tanura refinery Gadi Eisenkot is a direct product of the institutional Israeli security establishment, which shares a foundational worldview with the Clean Break strategy. As Northern Command chief in 2008, he spoke of applying disproportionate force to civilian-linked infrastructure in Lebanon, and is an architect of the approach known as the Dahiya Doctrine. He has since rejected the two-state formula, wants overriding Israeli security control west of the Jordan River, and backs keeping security zones in neighbouring territory. It's not just Eisenkot or Netanyahu; Israeli society as a whole is suffering from historical amnesia; it has erased the memory of the Nakba. Israeli historians, including Benny Morris, Avi Shlaim and Ilan Pappé, documented in the 1980s that roughly 700,000 Palestinians fled or were expelled in 1948, and that villages were destroyed and return was barred. Israel has changed its narrative; they perceive that 1948 was a war launched by Arab states after they rejected partition, in which Israel fought for survival. They think that the Jewish people have a biblical claim to the land, but do not clarify which "Jewish"- is it religious or ethnic. Netanyahu vs Eisenkot Netanyahu is purely driven by political survival, whereas Eisenkot is looking for the defining moment of his political career. Victory for Netanyahu means savagery in the short term for Gaza and the West Bank, but in the long term, economic and political isolation of Israel as a country, and the delegitimisation of Western moral and political authority. Western allies face immense domestic political pressure when dealing with his government. But with Eisenkot, Western leaders find a "palatable" partner. He vows to crack down on settler violence and respect international legal frameworks. The election does not change what Israel wants to achieve, but might legitimise Israel's unfair, brutal and illegal occupation of Palestine by changing how Israel behaves as an international actor. A fundamental transformation of the status quo is unlikely, as the political debate within Israel has already shifted from a permanent resolution paradigm of the “Oslo Accords” to optimising “conflict management” of “Clean Break”, maintaining the political and moral legitimacy of the West.

Israel’s election pits Benjamin Netanyahu against Gadi Eisenkot, but their opposition to Palestinian statehood and shared security goals raise questions about prospects for peace.

Netanyahu or Eisenkot? Why Israel’s election may mean little for regional peace

Kathmandu: Nepal has suspended trekking activities in high-altitude and Himalayan regions from October 29 to 31, citing the risk of heavy snowfall, snowstorms and avalanches as Cyclone Arnab intensifies over the Bay of Bengal and is expected to affect the country.The Department of Immigration issued a notice on Tuesday urging trekkers and tour operators to avoid mountain areas during the three-day period and advising those already in the mountains to remain in safe locations.The department has also suspended the issuance of trekking permits for restricted areas in high-altitude and Himalayan regions during the period.&nbsp;Trekkers who have already obtained permits to enter restricted areas have been asked to suspend their journeys to reduce the risk of weather-related accidents. Those already on the trail have been advised to seek shelter and remain in secure locations.Trekking agencies, guides, trekkers and other stakeholders have been urged to follow the advisory.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-s-likud-party-asks-for-extending-voting-hours-amid-arab-turnout-surge-1793118332031">Netanyahu’s Likud party asks for extending voting hours amid Arab ‘turnout surge’</a>&nbsp;The warning comes as Nepal's Himalayan trekking areas draw visitors from around the world. Heavy snowfall, snowstorms and avalanches can pose serious risks in remote mountain areas, where access to shelter, communication and emergency assistance can be limited.Nepal has been placed on high alert from Thursday to Saturday as Cyclone Arnab intensifies over the Bay of Bengal with heavy rain, thunderstorms, strong winds and snowfall expected across several parts of the country.&nbsp;The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA) on Tuesday urged authorities and the public to take precautionary measures, warning that the cyclone is likely to make landfall in India on October 28 and its effects on Nepal are expected to begin on the night of Thursday, October 29.&nbsp;The NDRRMA said Arnab is gaining strength and is likely to become a very severe cyclone.

The warning comes as Nepal's Himalayan trekking areas draw visitors from around the world. Heavy snowfall, snowstorms and avalanches can pose serious risks in remote mountain areas, where access to shelter, communication and emergency assistance can be limited.

Kathmandu: Nepal has suspended trekking activities in high-altitude and Himalayan regions from October 29 to 31, citing the risk of heavy snowfall, snowstorms and avalanches as Cyclone Arnab intensifies over the Bay of Bengal and is expected to affect the country. The Department of Immigration issued a notice on Tuesday urging trekkers and tour operators to avoid mountain areas during the three-day period and advising those already in the mountains to remain in safe locations. The department has also suspended the issuance of trekking permits for restricted areas in high-altitude and Himalayan regions during the period. Trekkers who have already obtained permits to enter restricted areas have been asked to suspend their journeys to reduce the risk of weather-related accidents. Those already on the trail have been advised to seek shelter and remain in secure locations. Trekking agencies, guides, trekkers and other stakeholders have been urged to follow the advisory. Also Read: Netanyahu’s Likud party asks for extending voting hours amid Arab ‘turnout surge’ The warning comes as Nepal's Himalayan trekking areas draw visitors from around the world. Heavy snowfall, snowstorms and avalanches can pose serious risks in remote mountain areas, where access to shelter, communication and emergency assistance can be limited. Nepal has been placed on high alert from Thursday to Saturday as Cyclone Arnab intensifies over the Bay of Bengal with heavy rain, thunderstorms, strong winds and snowfall expected across several parts of the country. The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA) on Tuesday urged authorities and the public to take precautionary measures, warning that the cyclone is likely to make landfall in India on October 28 and its effects on Nepal are expected to begin on the night of Thursday, October 29. The NDRRMA said Arnab is gaining strength and is likely to become a very severe cyclone.

The warning comes as Nepal's Himalayan trekking areas draw visitors from around the world. Heavy snowfall, snowstorms and avalanches can pose serious risks in remote mountain areas, where access to shelter, communication and emergency assistance can be limited.

Nepal suspends high-altitude trekking over avalanche, snowfall risk

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s Likud party asked election authorities on Tuesday to extend polling hours after he warned his supporters about Arab voters’ high turnout and the highest overall participation in decades.“We have submitted a request to extend voting hours,” the ruling Likud party said in a message on Telegram.&nbsp;Polling stations opened at 7 am and are scheduled to close at 10 pm.The Central Elections Committee had said earlier in the day that stations would stay open past 10 pm for anyone still waiting in line.&nbsp;The elections committee said 44.9% of eligible voters had cast ballots by 2 pm, the highest ever recorded at that hour and the highest since the 1973 elections.&nbsp;More than 7.3 million people are eligible to vote at 12,018 polling stations for the 120-seat Knesset.&nbsp;<h2>‘Future of Jewish state at stake,’ warns Netanyahu</h2>&nbsp;Arab citizens make up about 21% of Israel’s population, roughly 2.1 million people. Pollsters had expected their turnout to rise sharply from about 53% in 2022, with estimates ranging from 63% to as high as 70%.Long queues were reported in some Arab communities, while Rahat, the largest Arab city, recorded 36.9% turnout by noon.&nbsp;In a video to Likud voters, Netanyahu said Arab voters in southern Israel were “racing to the ballots” and were “trying to steal the election from us.”He cited the reported arrests of three Ra’am activists on suspicion of bribing voters, and claimed Arab turnout in the Negev was far higher than among Jewish voters.“No beach, no barbecue, everyone goes out to vote Likud,” he said, adding that the future of the Jewish state was at stake.&nbsp;He warned in a social media post that without a strong right-wing turnout, Israel would “find ourselves with a government of the Arab parties.”&nbsp;Transport Minister Miri Regev wrote on X, “They’re trying to steal the election and the country from us.” Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich also attributed the high turnout to greater participation by Arab voters.&nbsp;<h2>Rivals push back, communities complain of ‘deliberate delays’</h2>&nbsp;The Yashar party of Netanyahu’s main rival Gadi Eisenkot opposed Likud’s request to extend voting hours, saying “no unusual incident has occurred that would justify approving the request.”The party said that the Likud bid is intended to “lay the groundwork for claims against the integrity of the election, following the lies Netanyahu has been spreading since this morning.”&nbsp;The Joint List said turnout in Jewish communities remained higher than in Arab ones, contrary to Netanyahu’s claims, and said he circulated AI-generated images presented as coming from polling stations in Sakhnin and the Negev.Some Arab communities reported slow identification procedures and long lines, with accusations that the delays were deliberate.&nbsp;&nbsp;The required majority for government formation in Israel’s 120-seat Knesset is 61.&nbsp;&nbsp;Observers expect the outcome to become clear by dawn on Wednesday, with official results due on November 4.&nbsp;Earlier in the day, Dean Livne, the acting director general of the Central Elections Committee, said polling stations would remain open after 10 pm if people were still waiting in line to vote.

The Yashar party of Gadi Eisenkot opposed Likud’s request to extend voting hours, saying no unusual incident has occurred that would justify approving the request. The Joint List said turnout in Jewish communities remained higher than in Arab ones, contrary to Netanyahu’s claims.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s Likud party asked election authorities on Tuesday to extend polling hours after he warned his supporters about Arab voters’ high turnout and the highest overall participation in decades. “We have submitted a request to extend voting hours,” the ruling Likud party said in a message on Telegram. Polling stations opened at 7 am and are scheduled to close at 10 pm. The Central Elections Committee had said earlier in the day that stations would stay open past 10 pm for anyone still waiting in line. The elections committee said 44.9% of eligible voters had cast ballots by 2 pm, the highest ever recorded at that hour and the highest since the 1973 elections. More than 7.3 million people are eligible to vote at 12,018 polling stations for the 120-seat Knesset. ‘Future of Jewish state at stake,’ warns Netanyahu Arab citizens make up about 21% of Israel’s population, roughly 2.1 million people. Pollsters had expected their turnout to rise sharply from about 53% in 2022, with estimates ranging from 63% to as high as 70%. Long queues were reported in some Arab communities, while Rahat, the largest Arab city, recorded 36.9% turnout by noon. In a video to Likud voters, Netanyahu said Arab voters in southern Israel were “racing to the ballots” and were “trying to steal the election from us.” He cited the reported arrests of three Ra’am activists on suspicion of bribing voters, and claimed Arab turnout in the Negev was far higher than among Jewish voters. “No beach, no barbecue, everyone goes out to vote Likud,” he said, adding that the future of the Jewish state was at stake. He warned in a social media post that without a strong right-wing turnout, Israel would “find ourselves with a government of the Arab parties.” Transport Minister Miri Regev wrote on X, “They’re trying to steal the election and the country from us.” Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich also attributed the high turnout to greater participation by Arab voters. Rivals push back, communities complain of ‘deliberate delays’ The Yashar party of Netanyahu’s main rival Gadi Eisenkot opposed Likud’s request to extend voting hours, saying “no unusual incident has occurred that would justify approving the request.” The party said that the Likud bid is intended to “lay the groundwork for claims against the integrity of the election, following the lies Netanyahu has been spreading since this morning.” The Joint List said turnout in Jewish communities remained higher than in Arab ones, contrary to Netanyahu’s claims, and said he circulated AI-generated images presented as coming from polling stations in Sakhnin and the Negev. Some Arab communities reported slow identification procedures and long lines, with accusations that the delays were deliberate. The required majority for government formation in Israel’s 120-seat Knesset is 61. Observers expect the outcome to become clear by dawn on Wednesday, with official results due on November 4. Earlier in the day, Dean Livne, the acting director general of the Central Elections Committee, said polling stations would remain open after 10 pm if people were still waiting in line to vote.

The Yashar party of Gadi Eisenkot opposed Likud’s request to extend voting hours, saying no unusual incident has occurred that would justify approving the request. The Joint List said turnout in Jewish communities remained higher than in Arab ones, contrary to Netanyahu’s claims.

Netanyahu’s Likud party asks for extending voting hours amid Arab ‘turnout surge’

Yemen's Houthi rebels have claimed an attack on Saudi Arabia's Defence Ministry in Riyadh and its biggest oil refinery, Ras Tanura. AFP reported that the blast shook the capital of Saudi Arabia, and the maritime fire agency Vanguard said a fire was reported in the Ras Tanura area in the early hours of Tuesday, local time. The attack is being reported as Saudi Defence Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman, along with Pakistani and Turkish officials, just completed four-way regional security talks."Our armed forces targeted the Ministry of Defence in the enemy Saudi capital, Riyadh, with a ballistic missile, and the hit was direct," Houthi military spokesman Yahya Saree said. The Houthi military spokesperson also claimed that the Houthis "were able to target the Ras Tanura refinery in the Eastern Province with a ballistic missile", adding the strike caused "massive fires".The attack on the Defence Ministry in Riyadh was not confirmed by Saudi Arabia. AFP reported an explosion in the capital earlier in the day. A text message alert was also sent urging people to seek shelter. Authorities said they intercepted and destroyed two Houthi ballistic missiles launched towards the city.Saudi Arabian authorities and Saudi Aramco have not confirmed a direct Houthi missile strike on the Ras Tanura oil refinery. The Saudi Ministry of Interior and Civil Defence have strictly banned recording and sharing any footage of missile or drone attacks. So the extent of damage is unknown."The fire has reportedly been contained, while the extent of damage and any impact on oil-loading operations remain unclear at current," Vanguard said.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-traders-rahul-gandhi-india-bloc-rally-postpone-1793110461341">Delhi traders urge Rahul Gandhi to postpone INDIA bloc rally once again</a>Ras Tanura is the largest and oldest oil refinery in Saudi Arabia; it is also the most complex one. It has a capacity of 550,000 barrels per day. It has been repeatedly targeted by strikes blamed on Iran in the early conflict during March.The Houthis have also claimed an attack on two military transport aircraft in southern Saudi Arabia. The Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Saree said that the group targeted the aircraft "with ballistic missiles, one at Najran airport and the other at (King) Khalid Air Base in Khamis Mushait". He also added that the group had targeted the southern airport of Abha with a drone.<h2>Israeli media claims Saudi Arabia offered Houthis $1 billion</h2>Israeli media outlet Israel Hayom claimed that &nbsp;Saudi Arabia offered the Houthis $1 billion via an Iran-mediated deal to secure a ceasefire and halt the ongoing infrastructure strike. The report cites unnamed officials, saying that Saudi Defence Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman even brought the money with him during his trip to Iran, and its Mecca pact partners, Turkey and Pakistan, were also part of it. Saudi Foreign Ministry confirmed the official diplomatic visit to Tehran as part of a joint regional effort with Pakistan and Turkey to de-escalate regional tensions, but it did not explicitly comment on the report. The attempt is to revive a 2023 framework where Saudi Arabia would fund public-sector salaries and infrastructure rebuilds in Houthi-controlled Yemen in exchange for a complete cessation of attacks on Saudi oil facilities and airports.

Yemen’s Houthis claim missile strikes on Saudi Arabia’s Defence Ministry and Ras Tanura refinery, as Riyadh reports an explosion and says it intercepted two ballistic missiles.

Yemen's Houthi rebels have claimed an attack on Saudi Arabia's Defence Ministry in Riyadh and its biggest oil refinery, Ras Tanura. AFP reported that the blast shook the capital of Saudi Arabia, and the maritime fire agency Vanguard said a fire was reported in the Ras Tanura area in the early hours of Tuesday, local time. The attack is being reported as Saudi Defence Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman, along with Pakistani and Turkish officials, just completed four-way regional security talks. "Our armed forces targeted the Ministry of Defence in the enemy Saudi capital, Riyadh, with a ballistic missile, and the hit was direct," Houthi military spokesman Yahya Saree said. The Houthi military spokesperson also claimed that the Houthis "were able to target the Ras Tanura refinery in the Eastern Province with a ballistic missile", adding the strike caused "massive fires". The attack on the Defence Ministry in Riyadh was not confirmed by Saudi Arabia. AFP reported an explosion in the capital earlier in the day. A text message alert was also sent urging people to seek shelter. Authorities said they intercepted and destroyed two Houthi ballistic missiles launched towards the city. Saudi Arabian authorities and Saudi Aramco have not confirmed a direct Houthi missile strike on the Ras Tanura oil refinery. The Saudi Ministry of Interior and Civil Defence have strictly banned recording and sharing any footage of missile or drone attacks. So the extent of damage is unknown. "The fire has reportedly been contained, while the extent of damage and any impact on oil-loading operations remain unclear at current," Vanguard said. Also Read: Delhi traders urge Rahul Gandhi to postpone INDIA bloc rally once again Ras Tanura is the largest and oldest oil refinery in Saudi Arabia; it is also the most complex one. It has a capacity of 550,000 barrels per day. It has been repeatedly targeted by strikes blamed on Iran in the early conflict during March. The Houthis have also claimed an attack on two military transport aircraft in southern Saudi Arabia. The Houthi military spokesperson Yahya Saree said that the group targeted the aircraft "with ballistic missiles, one at Najran airport and the other at (King) Khalid Air Base in Khamis Mushait". He also added that the group had targeted the southern airport of Abha with a drone. Israeli media claims Saudi Arabia offered Houthis $1 billion Israeli media outlet Israel Hayom claimed that Saudi Arabia offered the Houthis $1 billion via an Iran-mediated deal to secure a ceasefire and halt the ongoing infrastructure strike. The report cites unnamed officials, saying that Saudi Defence Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman even brought the money with him during his trip to Iran, and its Mecca pact partners, Turkey and Pakistan, were also part of it. Saudi Foreign Ministry confirmed the official diplomatic visit to Tehran as part of a joint regional effort with Pakistan and Turkey to de-escalate regional tensions, but it did not explicitly comment on the report. The attempt is to revive a 2023 framework where Saudi Arabia would fund public-sector salaries and infrastructure rebuilds in Houthi-controlled Yemen in exchange for a complete cessation of attacks on Saudi oil facilities and airports.

Yemen's Houthis claim missile strikes on Saudi Arabia's Defence Ministry and Ras Tanura refinery, while Riyadh says it intercepted two ballistic missiles.

Houthis claim missile strikes on Saudi defence ministry, Ras Tanura refinery

Some UK retailers have reported sharp rises in sales of essential items after the government encouraged people to stockpile supplies in case of an emergency, according to figures obtained by BBC Newsnight. On 22 October, Defence Secretary Wes Streeting said households should prepare for emergencies such as a cyberattack or an extreme weather event. He advised keeping three litres of water per person per day, tinned goods, baby food, battery-powered torches and mobile phone charging packs. Many of these items appear among the goods whose sales Newsnight found have risen.&nbsp;Supermarket chain Iceland told the BBC programme that sales of tinned products rose 40% over the weekend, with strong sales of bottled water too. A spokesperson said it was "clear" consumers had listened to the government's message, adding that supplies of these products remain healthy. Robert Dyas reported a 160% rise in radio sales compared with last week. Maplin said radio sales were up 92%, torch sales up 284% and power bank sales up 106%. Its figures compare the period since last week's announcement with the same period a month earlier.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/done-a-very-good-job-as-israel-votes-trump-says-netanyahu-did-not-ask-for-second-endorsement-1793065672228">As Israel votes, Trump says Netanyahu did not ask for second endorsement</a>&nbsp;Maplin managing director Ollie Marshall said that within hours of the "Be Ready" announcement, customers were buying basics such as torches, wind-up radios and power banks. He said torch sales nearly quadrupled and radio sales almost doubled in three days. Marshall described them as simple, affordable products that keep households connected and informed during a power cut, and said it was encouraging to see people taking the advice seriously.BBC Newsnight also spoke to independent retailers who reported spikes in the goods highlighted by the defence secretary.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lousy-president-trump-hits-back-at-obama-over-cheesecake-factory-white-house-jibe-1793057164776">Trump calls Obama a 'lousy president' over 'cheesecake factory' White House jibe</a>&nbsp;Sales of emergency supplies have surged following the launch of the government's 'Be Ready' campaign. Josh Pringle of online store Sgt Prepper's reported a tenfold increase in orders, primarily for wind-up radios, while Lincoln Miles, founder of Preppers Shop UK, saw sales jump by 650%, driven largely by demand for off-grid products. Responding to the surge on Newsnight, Wes Streeting welcomed the public's proactive measures, noting that stocking basic essentials like tinned food and torches strengthens household resilience against power outages, floods, or burst pipes.

'Be Ready' campaign sparks emergency gear sales surge, with Preppers Shop UK up 650%. Wes Streeting praised public prep for power cuts and floods, calling it vital for UK resilience. 

Some UK retailers have reported sharp rises in sales of essential items after the government encouraged people to stockpile supplies in case of an emergency, according to figures obtained by BBC Newsnight. On 22 October, Defence Secretary Wes Streeting said households should prepare for emergencies such as a cyberattack or an extreme weather event. He advised keeping three litres of water per person per day, tinned goods, baby food, battery-powered torches and mobile phone charging packs. Many of these items appear among the goods whose sales Newsnight found have risen. Supermarket chain Iceland told the BBC programme that sales of tinned products rose 40% over the weekend, with strong sales of bottled water too. A spokesperson said it was "clear" consumers had listened to the government's message, adding that supplies of these products remain healthy. Robert Dyas reported a 160% rise in radio sales compared with last week. Maplin said radio sales were up 92%, torch sales up 284% and power bank sales up 106%. Its figures compare the period since last week's announcement with the same period a month earlier. Also read: As Israel votes, Trump says Netanyahu did not ask for second endorsement Maplin managing director Ollie Marshall said that within hours of the "Be Ready" announcement, customers were buying basics such as torches, wind-up radios and power banks. He said torch sales nearly quadrupled and radio sales almost doubled in three days. Marshall described them as simple, affordable products that keep households connected and informed during a power cut, and said it was encouraging to see people taking the advice seriously. BBC Newsnight also spoke to independent retailers who reported spikes in the goods highlighted by the defence secretary. Also read: Trump calls Obama a 'lousy president' over 'cheesecake factory' White House jibe Sales of emergency supplies have surged following the launch of the government's 'Be Ready' campaign. Josh Pringle of online store Sgt Prepper's reported a tenfold increase in orders, primarily for wind-up radios, while Lincoln Miles, founder of Preppers Shop UK, saw sales jump by 650%, driven largely by demand for off-grid products. Responding to the surge on Newsnight, Wes Streeting welcomed the public's proactive measures, noting that stocking basic essentials like tinned food and torches strengthens household resilience against power outages, floods, or burst pipes.

'Be Ready' campaign sparks emergency gear sales surge, with Preppers Shop UK up 650%. Wes Streeting praised public prep for power cuts and floods, calling it vital for UK resilience.&nbsp;

Tinned goods up 40%, torches 284%: UK shoppers stockpile essentials after government warning

Microsoft is reportedly offering voluntary exit packages to around 60,000 employees, giving eligible workers the option to leave the company with financial support as the technology giant adapts its workforce for an AI-driven future.&nbsp;The programme reportedly covers staff in India, the United States, the United Kingdom and Canada, including employees at vice president level and below. Unlike compulsory layoffs, the scheme allows eligible employees to decide whether they want to leave.The move comes as Microsoft continues investing heavily in artificial intelligence (AI), data centres and computing infrastructure. However, the company has not said the buyout programme is solely a response to AI spending.<h2>Why is Microsoft offering buyouts to 60,000 employees?</h2>According to reports by Bloomberg, Microsoft wants to give employees who are considering a future outside the company another option, while allowing business divisions to adjust staffing levels as their needs change. Chief People Officer Amy Coleman reportedly told employees that the offer provides support for those considering leaving and gives participating teams another way to adapt their workforce.Microsoft had 223,000 full-time employees worldwide as of June 2026. Its workforce has remained broadly stable since 2022, around the time the company began expanding its AI investments. The latest programme could allow Microsoft to change its workforce without relying entirely on compulsory job cuts. The company has not announced a target for how many employees it expects to accept the offer.<h2>Which Microsoft teams could be affected?</h2>Reports indicate that employees in divisions including Xbox, Windows, Copilot and finance could be eligible, depending on their role and participating team. Some workers are reportedly excluded, including employees in data centres, sales, marketing, cybersecurity and quantum computing. The programme is expected to cover eligible employees in India, the US, the UK and Canada, with eligibility extending to vice president level and below. Individual eligibility will depend on the company's final programme details. Employees should therefore check the official communication from Microsoft rather than assume that every worker in an included division qualifies.<h2>How does Microsoft’s AI push fit into the plan?</h2>Microsoft is spending heavily on the infrastructure needed to develop and run AI services. That includes data centres, advanced chips and computing capacity supporting its own products and external AI customers. The company is also competing in a fast-moving market where AI tools such as Copilot are becoming a larger part of its product strategy. The buyout programme highlights a wider challenge for major technology companies: adapting their workforce while investing in expensive new technologies. For employees, the offer could provide a supported route out of the company. For Microsoft, it offers another way to adjust staffing as business priorities change. Whether the programme leads to a significant reduction in headcount will depend on how many eligible employees choose to accept it.

Microsoft is reportedly offering voluntary buyouts to around 60,000 employees in India, the US, the UK and Canada. The programme allows eligible staff to leave with financial support as the company adapts its workforce amid growing investment in AI and data centres.

Microsoft is reportedly offering voluntary exit packages to around 60,000 employees, giving eligible workers the option to leave the company with financial support as the technology giant adapts its workforce for an AI-driven future. The programme reportedly covers staff in India, the United States, the United Kingdom and Canada, including employees at vice president level and below. Unlike compulsory layoffs, the scheme allows eligible employees to decide whether they want to leave. The move comes as Microsoft continues investing heavily in artificial intelligence (AI), data centres and computing infrastructure. However, the company has not said the buyout programme is solely a response to AI spending. Why is Microsoft offering buyouts to 60,000 employees? According to reports by Bloomberg, Microsoft wants to give employees who are considering a future outside the company another option, while allowing business divisions to adjust staffing levels as their needs change. Chief People Officer Amy Coleman reportedly told employees that the offer provides support for those considering leaving and gives participating teams another way to adapt their workforce. Microsoft had 223,000 full-time employees worldwide as of June 2026. Its workforce has remained broadly stable since 2022, around the time the company began expanding its AI investments. The latest programme could allow Microsoft to change its workforce without relying entirely on compulsory job cuts. The company has not announced a target for how many employees it expects to accept the offer. Which Microsoft teams could be affected? Reports indicate that employees in divisions including Xbox, Windows, Copilot and finance could be eligible, depending on their role and participating team. Some workers are reportedly excluded, including employees in data centres, sales, marketing, cybersecurity and quantum computing. The programme is expected to cover eligible employees in India, the US, the UK and Canada, with eligibility extending to vice president level and below. Individual eligibility will depend on the company's final programme details. Employees should therefore check the official communication from Microsoft rather than assume that every worker in an included division qualifies. How does Microsoft’s AI push fit into the plan? Microsoft is spending heavily on the infrastructure needed to develop and run AI services. That includes data centres, advanced chips and computing capacity supporting its own products and external AI customers. The company is also competing in a fast-moving market where AI tools such as Copilot are becoming a larger part of its product strategy. The buyout programme highlights a wider challenge for major technology companies: adapting their workforce while investing in expensive new technologies. For employees, the offer could provide a supported route out of the company. For Microsoft, it offers another way to adjust staffing as business priorities change. Whether the programme leads to a significant reduction in headcount will depend on how many eligible employees choose to accept it.

Microsoft is reportedly offering voluntary buyouts to around 60,000 employees in India, the US, the UK and Canada. The programme allows eligible staff to leave with financial support as the company adapts its workforce amid growing investment in AI and data centres.

The money going into AI data centres has to come from somewhere: What Microsoft’s buyout plan reveals

Two British men have been charged under the National Security Act over an incident at RAF Fairford airbase in southwest England last month. One of them is accused of helping a foreign intelligence service believed to be linked to Iran.&nbsp;Laurence Taylor, head of National Counter Terrorism Policing, said both men are 24 years old and face separate charges.&nbsp;This is the first time anyone has been charged over the incident. Police had arrested seven suspects in the days after the incident but later released them on bail.<h3>Two men face separate charges</h3>Nouman Essghir, 24, has been charged with entering or approaching a restricted site for a purpose considered “prejudicial” to the UK's interests. He was arrested at the scene in Gloucestershire, released on bail and arrested again last week.&nbsp;Taylor said the charge was linked to “suspected activity” on August 22 but did not provide further details.&nbsp;The second man, Mohmed Ahmad Abdulkarim, 24, was arrested after being questioned under caution over the past week. He has been charged with helping a foreign intelligence service.&nbsp;“In this case, we believe that country to be Iran,” police said.&nbsp;Both men are due to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court in London on Tuesday.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-polls-highest-early-turnout-since-1973-netanyahu-s-likud-alleges-fraud-attempt-to-steal-election-1793103107086">Israel polls: Highest early turnout since 1973; Netanyahu’s Likud alleges fraud, ‘attempt to steal’ election</a><h3>Police suspect foreign intelligence involvement</h3>Police were called to RAF Fairford in the early hours of September 27 after a local farmer reported a group of men with several white vans behaving in a “suspicious” manner.&nbsp;“While some of the circumstances remain unclear, we are confident that this activity was conducted on behalf of a foreign intelligence service,” Taylor told reporters outside Metropolitan Police headquarters in London on Tuesday.&nbsp;Days after the incident, the United States withdrew all its B-1 bombers from the airbase.Police said last week that two of the seven original suspects had been arrested again, including Essghir.&nbsp;US President Donald Trump earlier criticised the British authorities for releasing the suspects on bail.Speaking from the Oval Office, Trump said he was “surprised that they released them” and claimed US authorities “would not have released them”. He also linked the suspected plot to Iran.

Two British men have been charged over an incident at RAF Fairford, with one accused of helping an intelligence service believed to be linked to Iran.

Two British men have been charged under the National Security Act over an incident at RAF Fairford airbase in southwest England last month. One of them is accused of helping a foreign intelligence service believed to be linked to Iran. Laurence Taylor, head of National Counter Terrorism Policing, said both men are 24 years old and face separate charges. This is the first time anyone has been charged over the incident. Police had arrested seven suspects in the days after the incident but later released them on bail. Two men face separate charges Nouman Essghir, 24, has been charged with entering or approaching a restricted site for a purpose considered “prejudicial” to the UK's interests. He was arrested at the scene in Gloucestershire, released on bail and arrested again last week. Taylor said the charge was linked to “suspected activity” on August 22 but did not provide further details. The second man, Mohmed Ahmad Abdulkarim, 24, was arrested after being questioned under caution over the past week. He has been charged with helping a foreign intelligence service. “In this case, we believe that country to be Iran,” police said. Both men are due to appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court in London on Tuesday. Also Read: Israel polls: Highest early turnout since 1973; Netanyahu’s Likud alleges fraud, ‘attempt to steal’ election Police suspect foreign intelligence involvement Police were called to RAF Fairford in the early hours of September 27 after a local farmer reported a group of men with several white vans behaving in a “suspicious” manner. “While some of the circumstances remain unclear, we are confident that this activity was conducted on behalf of a foreign intelligence service,” Taylor told reporters outside Metropolitan Police headquarters in London on Tuesday. Days after the incident, the United States withdrew all its B-1 bombers from the airbase. Police said last week that two of the seven original suspects had been arrested again, including Essghir. US President Donald Trump earlier criticised the British authorities for releasing the suspects on bail. Speaking from the Oval Office, Trump said he was “surprised that they released them” and claimed US authorities “would not have released them”. He also linked the suspected plot to Iran.

Two British men have been charged over an incident at RAF Fairford, with one accused of helping an intelligence service believed to be linked to Iran.

UK charges two men over alleged plot to assist Iran in RAF Fairford incident

Voter turnout in Israel’s legislative elections reached 31.5 per cent by noon, the highest level recorded at that stage of polling since 1973, when the country held its first election after the Yom Kippur War. The figure was up from 28.4 per cent at the same time during the 2022 election.&nbsp;The election comes nearly three years after the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led attack and amid Israel’s ongoing offensive in Gaza and the conflict with Iran, triggered by joint US-Israeli strikes on February 28, 2026.&nbsp;The vote is also a crucial test for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Israel’s longest-serving leader, who could face imprisonment if convicted in the ongoing corruption cases against him.&nbsp;Voting began at 7 am and is scheduled to end at 10 pm. However, Dean Livne, acting director general of the Central Elections Committee, said polling stations would remain open beyond the deadline if voters were still waiting in line.&nbsp;“We promise, everyone will vote. If there is a line at 10 p.m., the polling stations will continue to operate until everyone who arrived by 10 p.m. has voted. There is no need to worry,” he said.<h3>Netanyahu, Likud alleges election fraud</h3>Netanyahu’s Likud party began preparing complaints over alleged irregularities at polling stations in Arab communities before voting started on Tuesday, according to a Channel 12 news report.&nbsp;After casting his ballot, Netanyahu renewed his criticism of Arab parties and alleged attempts to 'steal the election'. He cited reports of cash-related arrests, claiming three senior Raam officials were detained with cash-filled envelopes in southern Israel.&nbsp;“We cannot leave this battle here in the hands of the left and the Arab parties that want to bring an end to the Jewish state,” Netanyahu said.&nbsp;In a video posted on X, he issued what he called an “emergency call” to Likud supporters.“This is an emergency call to Likud voters!

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">זו קריאת חירום למצביעי הליכוד!

היום אף אחד לא נשאר בבית. אין ים, אין מנגל. דואגים שגם המשפחה, החברים והשכנים מגיעים לקלפי.

על הכף מונח עתידה של המדינה היהודית שלנו: ממשלת ימין חזקה או ממשלת שמאל בתמיכת המפלגות הערביות.

יוצאים להצביע מחל בכל הכוח! https://t.co/MBYHRe4d18&mdash; Benjamin Netanyahu - בנימין נתניהו (@netanyahu) <a href="https://x.com/netanyahu/status/2115038633484841394?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 27, 2026</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Today no one stays home. No sea, no barbecue. Making sure that the family, friends, and neighbours also get to the polling station,” he wrote.&nbsp;The prominent Arab party Ra'am, despite being relatively small, could play a decisive role in forming an opposition-led coalition if the results are close.&nbsp;Likud Transportation Minister Miri Regev also alleged that unnamed actors were attempting to manipulate the election, urging supporters to vote.&nbsp;“They’re trying to steal the election and the country from us,” Regev wrote on X. “It’s either the right or Palestine.”&nbsp;The Central Elections Committee, however, said it had found no evidence of systematic tampering with ballot slips, even as political parties raised complaints about alleged irregularities.&nbsp;“Contrary to claims circulating online, there are currently no indications of systematic tampering with ballot slips,” the committee said, adding that individual complaints were being addressed immediately.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-are-israel-s-anti-defection-laws-and-how-could-they-shape-post-poll-coalition-strategy-wion-explains-1793072633642">What are Israel’s anti-defection laws and how could they shape post-poll coalition strategy? WION Explains</a><h3>Trump backs Netanyahu's re-election bid</h3>US President Donald Trump has repeatedly endorsed Netanyahu publicly, urging Israeli voters to return him to office.&nbsp;In a Truth Social post published on Sunday evening, Trump praised Netanyahu’s leadership and their cooperation on military operations and shared security concerns.&nbsp;“When you go to the polls, please remember that Bibi [Netanyahu] has been an outstanding Warrior Prime Minister!” Trump wrote.&nbsp;“Vote for Bibi Netanyahu for Prime Minister,” he added.&nbsp;The endorsement followed an earlier intervention in which Trump warned that choosing another leader could leave Washington confronting Iran without an Israeli partner willing to do the same.&nbsp;Netanyahu highlighted Trump's support during a televised appearance on Sunday night.&nbsp;“US President Donald Trump has come with a friendship that has never existed before between an Israeli prime minister and an American president. And it is doubtful we will ever have such a friendly president again,” Netanyahu said.&nbsp;“He has another two years, and he says he is calling on you to vote for me.”

Israel’s election recorded 31.5 per cent voter turnout by noon, while Prime Minister Netanyahu and other Likud leaders alleged election fraud, claims the Central Elections Committee said were not supported by evidence of systematic ballot tampering.

Voter turnout in Israel’s legislative elections reached 31.5 per cent by noon, the highest level recorded at that stage of polling since 1973, when the country held its first election after the Yom Kippur War. The figure was up from 28.4 per cent at the same time during the 2022 election. The election comes nearly three years after the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led attack and amid Israel’s ongoing offensive in Gaza and the conflict with Iran, triggered by joint US-Israeli strikes on February 28, 2026. The vote is also a crucial test for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Israel’s longest-serving leader, who could face imprisonment if convicted in the ongoing corruption cases against him. Voting began at 7 am and is scheduled to end at 10 pm. However, Dean Livne, acting director general of the Central Elections Committee, said polling stations would remain open beyond the deadline if voters were still waiting in line. “We promise, everyone will vote. If there is a line at 10 p.m., the polling stations will continue to operate until everyone who arrived by 10 p.m. has voted. There is no need to worry,” he said. Netanyahu, Likud alleges election fraud Netanyahu’s Likud party began preparing complaints over alleged irregularities at polling stations in Arab communities before voting started on Tuesday, according to a Channel 12 news report. After casting his ballot, Netanyahu renewed his criticism of Arab parties and alleged attempts to 'steal the election'. He cited reports of cash-related arrests, claiming three senior Raam officials were detained with cash-filled envelopes in southern Israel. “We cannot leave this battle here in the hands of the left and the Arab parties that want to bring an end to the Jewish state,” Netanyahu said. In a video posted on X, he issued what he called an “emergency call” to Likud supporters. “This is an emergency call to Likud voters!

Israel’s election recorded 31.5 per cent voter turnout by noon, while Prime Minister Netanyahu and other Likud leaders alleged election fraud, claims the Central Elections Committee said were not supported by evidence of systematic ballot tampering.

Israel polls: Highest early turnout since 1973; Netanyahu’s Likud alleges fraud, ‘attempt to steal’ election

Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva’s election campaign appears to have flooded the internet with old and new AI-generated videos of the man who became Brazil's president one more time, including one in which he dances to Michael Jackson’s famous song "They Don’t Care About Us". While these were primarily humorous memes shared by supporters and circulated organically, &nbsp;it also helped influence recommendation algorithms to push such content amid alleged bias in favour of his rival, who lost. On 25 October, Lula won Brazil’s presidential run-off election, securing a record fourth term after defeating Flávio Bolsonaro, the son of former president Jair Bolsonaro.<h2>Lula as Michael Jackson</h2>The content originated from individual creators, fan accounts and music fandoms. One video that went viral showed a Brazilian version of the music video, titled “They Don’t Care About Us, versão Lula”. Lula was shown ‘performing’ to Michael Jackson’s song, whose original music video was filmed in Brazil in 1996 under the direction of Spike Lee. The video featured locations in Salvador and Rio de Janeiro.Other AI-generated videos showed Lula dancing to songs by Lady Gaga, Taylor Swift and Beyoncé, alongside superhero edits and football scenes featuring the president.Some videos showed Lula and his allies dancing on a stage, mimicking Lady Gaga’s performance in Rio de Janeiro. Others inserted Lula into Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour-style performances, recreated classic Madonna looks or showed him dancing to Beyoncé’s “Crazy in Love”.Lula was also portrayed as Captain America facing Flávio Bolsonaro as Thanos from the Marvel Superhero Universe. Other clips depicted the Brazilian president as a Victoria’s Secret Angel, or alongside football goal celebrations and stadium scenes.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/race-to-power/lula-fourth-presidential-victory-trump-latin-america-1793032769668">Lula’s 4th presidential victory a blow to Trump’s ambitions in Latin America | The Verdict</a><h2>Not overtly political, but fun to watch: A social media movement against perceived bias</h2>Some supporters and commentators suggested that the trend was an attempt to flood social media platforms such as X, Facebook, TikTok and Instagram in response to perceived algorithmic bias. The allegation was that Meta - which owns Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp - and X favoured Bolsonaro in their recommendation systems.Many of these videos were not explicitly political. This may have helped them circulate, go viral and bypass restrictions that might otherwise affect conventional campaign material.Some official accounts associated with Lula’s campaign shared content that blended real footage with viral trends or moments, while supporters flooded timelines with AI-generated memes.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazil-re-elects-luiz-in-cio-lula-da-silva-for-fourth-term-80-year-old-makes-history-by-defeating-fl-vio-bolsanaro-1792978385715">Brazil re-elects factory worker Lula for fourth term; Indian PM Modi congratulates 'dear friend'</a><h2>Lula’s team and allies had accused Meta of algorithmic manipulation</h2>During the election campaign period, the Lula Army had accused Meta and other social media platforms of bias, alleging that they suppressed the reach of Lula-related content and imposed advertising restrictions.They claimed, for instance, that Meta AI refused to generate images of Lula while allowing images of Bolsonaro. The campaign also alleged that recommendation engines worked differently for the two candidates, favouring Bolsonaro-related content.On 14 October, Lula’s campaign formally approached Brazil’s Tribunal Superior Eleitoral or TSE, seeking equal treatment on Meta’s platforms.Meta attributed the problems to technical glitches, anti-fraud measures and neutral rules, denying intentional political interference. On 15 October, the TSE ordered Meta to ensure equal treatment of the candidates and prohibited unequal restrictions on the distribution and recommendation of their content. The court’s preliminary assessment did not establish that the alleged AI restrictions resulted from deliberate political bias.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/lula-s-campaign-reported-restrictions-on-instagram-posts-1792597837534/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/lula-s-campaign-reported-restrictions-on-instagram-posts-1792597837534/embed</a><h2>AI and deepfakes used to build clout and aura</h2>Both camps used AI extensively during the election campaign. Fact-checkers at the Lupa media organisation documented hundreds of suspected AI-generated or manipulated political posts. In one review, Lupa identified 282 AI-generated or altered items among 314 suspicious posts collected between 16 and 26 August.Deepfakes and synthetic content circulated among both pro- and anti-Lula supporters, prompting electoral authorities to intervene. Brazilian electoral rules require political and electoral content created or manipulated using AI to be clearly labelled. The TSE has also ordered the removal of misleading or improperly labelled material in specific cases.&nbsp;Here are some interesting videos:&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Viciada em vídeo de IA com Lula https://t.co/Fi0XZFltDR&mdash; Bernadete-de-chocolate-com-pimenta-não-binária (@jaoadymello) <a href="https://x.com/jaoadymello/status/2113661431350751303?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 23, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">TODOS los Fans de Michael Jackson, estamos con Lula Da Silva! Libardo Rodríguez Soto https://t.co/Fjj9YSVcHJ https://t.co/b0C3ypTvKK&mdash; Libardo Rodríguez Soto (@LIROSO91) <a href="https://x.com/LIROSO91/status/2114773345040220595?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 26, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Lula supporters flooded social media with AI-generated memes, turning him into Michael Jackson or Captain America. This was not accidental. There were allegations of algorithmic bias against Lula by social media giants

Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva’s election campaign appears to have flooded the internet with old and new AI-generated videos of the man who became Brazil's president one more time, including one in which he dances to Michael Jackson’s famous song "They Don’t Care About Us". While these were primarily humorous memes shared by supporters and circulated organically, it also helped influence recommendation algorithms to push such content amid alleged bias in favour of his rival, who lost. On 25 October, Lula won Brazil’s presidential run-off election, securing a record fourth term after defeating Flávio Bolsonaro, the son of former president Jair Bolsonaro. Lula as Michael Jackson The content originated from individual creators, fan accounts and music fandoms. One video that went viral showed a Brazilian version of the music video, titled “They Don’t Care About Us, versão Lula”. Lula was shown ‘performing’ to Michael Jackson’s song, whose original music video was filmed in Brazil in 1996 under the direction of Spike Lee. The video featured locations in Salvador and Rio de Janeiro. Other AI-generated videos showed Lula dancing to songs by Lady Gaga, Taylor Swift and Beyoncé, alongside superhero edits and football scenes featuring the president. Some videos showed Lula and his allies dancing on a stage, mimicking Lady Gaga’s performance in Rio de Janeiro. Others inserted Lula into Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour-style performances, recreated classic Madonna looks or showed him dancing to Beyoncé’s “Crazy in Love”. Lula was also portrayed as Captain America facing Flávio Bolsonaro as Thanos from the Marvel Superhero Universe. Other clips depicted the Brazilian president as a Victoria’s Secret Angel, or alongside football goal celebrations and stadium scenes. Also read: Lula’s 4th presidential victory a blow to Trump’s ambitions in Latin America | The Verdict Not overtly political, but fun to watch: A social media movement against perceived bias Some supporters and commentators suggested that the trend was an attempt to flood social media platforms such as X, Facebook, TikTok and Instagram in response to perceived algorithmic bias. The allegation was that Meta - which owns Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp - and X favoured Bolsonaro in their recommendation systems. Many of these videos were not explicitly political. This may have helped them circulate, go viral and bypass restrictions that might otherwise affect conventional campaign material. Some official accounts associated with Lula’s campaign shared content that blended real footage with viral trends or moments, while supporters flooded timelines with AI-generated memes. Also read: Brazil re-elects factory worker Lula for fourth term; Indian PM Modi congratulates 'dear friend' Lula’s team and allies had accused Meta of algorithmic manipulation During the election campaign period, the Lula Army had accused Meta and other social media platforms of bias, alleging that they suppressed the reach of Lula-related content and imposed advertising restrictions. They claimed, for instance, that Meta AI refused to generate images of Lula while allowing images of Bolsonaro. The campaign also alleged that recommendation engines worked differently for the two candidates, favouring Bolsonaro-related content. On 14 October, Lula’s campaign formally approached Brazil’s Tribunal Superior Eleitoral or TSE, seeking equal treatment on Meta’s platforms. Meta attributed the problems to technical glitches, anti-fraud measures and neutral rules, denying intentional political interference. On 15 October, the TSE ordered Meta to ensure equal treatment of the candidates and prohibited unequal restrictions on the distribution and recommendation of their content. The court’s preliminary assessment did not establish that the alleged AI restrictions resulted from deliberate political bias. https://www.wionews.com/videos/lula-s-campaign-reported-restrictions-on-instagram-posts-1792597837534/embed AI and deepfakes used to build clout and aura Both camps used AI extensively during the election campaign. Fact-checkers at the Lupa media organisation documented hundreds of suspected AI-generated or manipulated political posts. In one review, Lupa identified 282 AI-generated or altered items among 314 suspicious posts collected between 16 and 26 August. Deepfakes and synthetic content circulated among both pro- and anti-Lula supporters, prompting electoral authorities to intervene. Brazilian electoral rules require political and electoral content created or manipulated using AI to be clearly labelled. The TSE has also ordered the removal of misleading or improperly labelled material in specific cases. Here are some interesting videos:

Lula supporters flooded social media with AI-generated memes, turning him into Michael Jackson or Captain America. This was not accidental. There were allegations of algorithmic bias against Lula by social media giants

Transforming Lula into Michael Jackson and Captain America, how his ‘army’ flooded the internet with AI clips and memes to fight ‘algorithm bias’

Uganda has arrested a man accused of killing and eating 38 people between 2010 and 2025. Uganda's Chief of Defence Forces, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, announced in an X post on Monday that the country's worst serial killer and cannibal had finally been arrested. Identified as Mujurizi Moses, the man carried out the heinous crimes in Masaka, Ibanda and Kazo districts.&nbsp;"I am glad to inform our fellow citizens that the security forces have arrested the evil Mujurizi Moses. The worst serial killer and cannibal in Uganda's history," General Kainerugaba wrote. “He killed and ate 38 people between 2010 and 2025 in Masaka, Ibanda and Kazo. We will try him in public and definitely execute him.”<h2>How Moses killed and ate people</h2> Local reports state that Moses targeted entire families. He would break into their homes and attacked them with a machete. Moses also had accomplices who helped him enter the homes and murder everyone. In one case, they drilled a hole through the walls of a pastor and hacked everyone to death.&nbsp;He also lured people, mostly women, on the pretext of having a relationship with them. He then killed and ate them. This is not the first time that he has been arrested. Moses was taken into custody several times in the past but managed to escape or was freed for several reasons.<h2>Moses's arrest has attracted massive attention</h2>Officials this time also have proof of the murders, which they collected from his home. Legal proceedings will be initiated to establish his crimes before he can be executed. Investigators are also looking at cold cases on missing persons to identify if he could be linked to them as well. Now that he has been arrested again, it is drawing widespread attention since his crimes span more than 15 years.&nbsp;

Mujurizi Moses is accused of killing 38 people over 15 years. He has been described as Uganda's worst serial killer, who also ate his victims. Moses targeted families, entered their homes and murdered everyone. He is expected to be executed.

Uganda has arrested a man accused of killing and eating 38 people between 2010 and 2025. Uganda's Chief of Defence Forces, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, announced in an X post on Monday that the country's worst serial killer and cannibal had finally been arrested. Identified as Mujurizi Moses, the man carried out the heinous crimes in Masaka, Ibanda and Kazo districts. "I am glad to inform our fellow citizens that the security forces have arrested the evil Mujurizi Moses. The worst serial killer and cannibal in Uganda's history," General Kainerugaba wrote. “He killed and ate 38 people between 2010 and 2025 in Masaka, Ibanda and Kazo. We will try him in public and definitely execute him.” How Moses killed and ate people Local reports state that Moses targeted entire families. He would break into their homes and attacked them with a machete. Moses also had accomplices who helped him enter the homes and murder everyone. In one case, they drilled a hole through the walls of a pastor and hacked everyone to death. He also lured people, mostly women, on the pretext of having a relationship with them. He then killed and ate them. This is not the first time that he has been arrested. Moses was taken into custody several times in the past but managed to escape or was freed for several reasons. Moses's arrest has attracted massive attention Officials this time also have proof of the murders, which they collected from his home. Legal proceedings will be initiated to establish his crimes before he can be executed. Investigators are also looking at cold cases on missing persons to identify if he could be linked to them as well. Now that he has been arrested again, it is drawing widespread attention since his crimes span more than 15 years.

Mujurizi Moses is accused of killing 38 people over 15 years. He has been described as Uganda's worst serial killer, who also ate his victims. Moses targeted families, entered their homes and murdered everyone. He is expected to be executed.

Uganda arrests its 'worst serial killer and cannibal' who hacked 38 people to death

US Midterms 2026 is scheduled for Nov 3. State secretaries of state and attorneys general are positioned to heavily shape the 2028 U.S. presidential election cycle, both through their direct oversight of voting logistics and through their roles as chief legal officers. At the federal level, high-profile cabinet figures like Secretary of State Marco Rubio are already emerging as major frontrunners for the 2028 presidential ticket itself. This also becomes important as US President Donald Trump has offered $1 million for tipoffs that lead to voter fraud convictions.&nbsp;As Trump’s Secretary of State, Rubio holds one of the highest profiles in the administration. According to early polling from USA TODAY and Harvard CAPS/HarrisX, Rubio is widely viewed as a premier rival to Vice President JD Vance for the 2028 Republican nomination, drawing strong support among GOP voters.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-midterms-2026-last-leg-polls-and-forecasts-indicate-democratic-momentum-but-senate-control-remains-uncertain-1793045341987">US Midterms 2026: Last leg polls and forecasts indicate Democratic momentum</a>&nbsp;US Attorney General Todd Blanche: He is positioned at the apex of federal law enforcement, the permanent US Attorney General will set the tone for federal investigations and legal interpretations heading into the next election cycle.&nbsp;Georgia (Tim Fleming or Penny Brown Reynolds): The race to succeed Brad Raffensperger will decide whether a Republican or Democrat oversees election administration and certifies results in one of the country's most intense battleground environments.&nbsp;Michigan, Nevada, and Arizona: Across the 2026 midterm cycles, these critical battlegrounds are deciding chief election officers whose rules on mail-in ballots, voter identification, and certification protocols will dictate how the 2028 Presidential Election is administered.&nbsp;Missouri, North Carolina, and Oregon: These states have their own Secretary of State Elections in 2028, bringing fresh political scrutiny to how local offices are managed ahead of the vote certification.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-offers-1-million-before-us-midterms-what-is-he-asking-americans-to-report-1793046416131">Trump offers $1 million before US midterms. What is he asking Americans to report?</a>&nbsp;State attorneys general wield massive legal influence, defining "the intersection of law and public policy" by bringing lawsuits against federal regulations or defending state-level voting constraints. With Democratic AG Dana Nessel term-limited, control over this office is a major priority for both parties and Democratic Party's Eli Savit is up against Republicans Doug Lloyd). The winner will play an instrumental role in either litigating or protecting local voting frameworks leading into 2028.&nbsp;Kansas (Kris Kobach): As a prominent conservative legal voice, Kobach’s litigation strategies against federal policies serve as a blueprint for conservative state AG networks.&nbsp;In North Carolina (Jeff Jackson) and Pennsylvania (Dave Sunday), these officers maintain key roles in determining local enforcement priorities and handling election-related disputes in swing states.&nbsp;

The November 3 US midterms could shape the 2028 presidential election, with state secretaries of state and attorneys general influencing election administration, voter rules and legal disputes. Key races in battleground states are drawing national attention.

US Midterms 2026 is scheduled for Nov 3. State secretaries of state and attorneys general are positioned to heavily shape the 2028 U.S. presidential election cycle, both through their direct oversight of voting logistics and through their roles as chief legal officers. At the federal level, high-profile cabinet figures like Secretary of State Marco Rubio are already emerging as major frontrunners for the 2028 presidential ticket itself. This also becomes important as US President Donald Trump has offered $1 million for tipoffs that lead to voter fraud convictions. As Trump’s Secretary of State, Rubio holds one of the highest profiles in the administration. According to early polling from USA TODAY and Harvard CAPS/HarrisX, Rubio is widely viewed as a premier rival to Vice President JD Vance for the 2028 Republican nomination, drawing strong support among GOP voters. Also Read: US Midterms 2026: Last leg polls and forecasts indicate Democratic momentum US Attorney General Todd Blanche: He is positioned at the apex of federal law enforcement, the permanent US Attorney General will set the tone for federal investigations and legal interpretations heading into the next election cycle. Georgia (Tim Fleming or Penny Brown Reynolds): The race to succeed Brad Raffensperger will decide whether a Republican or Democrat oversees election administration and certifies results in one of the country's most intense battleground environments. Michigan, Nevada, and Arizona: Across the 2026 midterm cycles, these critical battlegrounds are deciding chief election officers whose rules on mail-in ballots, voter identification, and certification protocols will dictate how the 2028 Presidential Election is administered. Missouri, North Carolina, and Oregon: These states have their own Secretary of State Elections in 2028, bringing fresh political scrutiny to how local offices are managed ahead of the vote certification. Also Read: Trump offers $1 million before US midterms. What is he asking Americans to report? State attorneys general wield massive legal influence, defining "the intersection of law and public policy" by bringing lawsuits against federal regulations or defending state-level voting constraints. With Democratic AG Dana Nessel term-limited, control over this office is a major priority for both parties and Democratic Party's Eli Savit is up against Republicans Doug Lloyd). The winner will play an instrumental role in either litigating or protecting local voting frameworks leading into 2028. Kansas (Kris Kobach): As a prominent conservative legal voice, Kobach’s litigation strategies against federal policies serve as a blueprint for conservative state AG networks. In North Carolina (Jeff Jackson) and Pennsylvania (Dave Sunday), these officers maintain key roles in determining local enforcement priorities and handling election-related disputes in swing states.

The November 3 US midterms could shape the 2028 presidential election, with state secretaries of state and attorneys general influencing election administration, voter rules and legal disputes. Key races in battleground states are drawing national attention.

US midterms 2026: Secretaries of state and attorneys general who could shape 2028

Kathmandu: Nepal has been placed on high alert from Thursday to Saturday as Cyclone Arnab intensifies over the Bay of Bengal with heavy rain, thunderstorms, strong winds and snowfall expected across several parts of the country.&nbsp;The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA) on Tuesday urged authorities and the public to take precautionary measures, warning that the cyclone is likely to make landfall in India on October 28 and its effects on Nepal are expected to begin on the night of Thursday, October 29.&nbsp;The NDRRMA said Cyclone Arnab is gaining strength and is likely to become a very severe cyclone.&nbsp;Koshi, Bagmati, Madhes, Gandaki and Lumbini provinces are expected to be particularly affected on Friday and Saturday, with moderate rainfall, thunderstorms, lightning and strong winds likely in many places. Heavy rainfall is possible in a few locations.&nbsp;Karnali and Sudurpashchim provinces are also expected to receive moderate rain accompanied by thunder, lightning and wind in some places with heavy rainfall possible at one or two locations.&nbsp;The high hill and Himalayan areas in the affected provinces face a risk of heavy snowfall, snowstorms and avalanches, the NDRRMA said.&nbsp;Rojan Lamichhane, a meteorologist at the Meteorological Forecasting Division under the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology, said the cyclone is intensifying and is expected to develop into a severe cyclonic storm before making landfall near Yanam between Andhra Pradesh and Visakhapatnam in India on October 28.&nbsp;The system is expected to weaken gradually as it moves inland towards Nepal but its effects are likely to be felt in the country's hills and Himalayan regions with a greater impact expected in the Himalayas, Lamichhane said.&nbsp;The weather system is also expected to affect Kathmandu Valley.&nbsp;The DHM has advised farmers to complete agricultural activities, including harvesting and bringing in paddy crops by Wednesday afternoon before the rainfall begins.&nbsp;The rainfall is also expected to raise river levels. The DHM said major river basins across the country are expected to remain at normal levels on Wednesday but water levels will begin rising from Thursday in the Narayani, Koshi, Bagmati and Kamala basins.&nbsp;Between Friday and Saturday, continuous heavy rainfall could push river flows towards warning and vigilance thresholds, particularly in the Narayani, Koshi, Bagmati, Kamala and Tinau basins. Minor rises are also expected in the Mahakali, Karnali, West Rapti and Babai rivers.&nbsp;The DHM has identified hilly, chure and tarai catchments as areas of concern where small rivers and tributaries face risks of flash floods and waterlogging.&nbsp;The NDRRMA has advised tourists to avoid travelling to high hills and Himalayan areas during the alert period. Those already in these areas have been urged to remain in safe locations.&nbsp;It has also warned that road and air transport and other aspects of daily life could be disrupted and urged people to avoid travel unless essential and to stay away from high-risk areas particularly riverbanks that could be affected by flooding.&nbsp;The cyclone's influence is expected to gradually weaken from Saturday night, Lamichhane said.

Koshi, Bagmati, Madhes, Gandaki and Lumbini provinces are expected to be particularly affected on Friday and Saturday, with moderate rainfall, thunderstorms, lightning and strong winds likely in many places. Heavy rainfall is possible in a few locations.



Kathmandu: Nepal has been placed on high alert from Thursday to Saturday as Cyclone Arnab intensifies over the Bay of Bengal with heavy rain, thunderstorms, strong winds and snowfall expected across several parts of the country. The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority (NDRRMA) on Tuesday urged authorities and the public to take precautionary measures, warning that the cyclone is likely to make landfall in India on October 28 and its effects on Nepal are expected to begin on the night of Thursday, October 29. The NDRRMA said Cyclone Arnab is gaining strength and is likely to become a very severe cyclone. Koshi, Bagmati, Madhes, Gandaki and Lumbini provinces are expected to be particularly affected on Friday and Saturday, with moderate rainfall, thunderstorms, lightning and strong winds likely in many places. Heavy rainfall is possible in a few locations. Karnali and Sudurpashchim provinces are also expected to receive moderate rain accompanied by thunder, lightning and wind in some places with heavy rainfall possible at one or two locations. The high hill and Himalayan areas in the affected provinces face a risk of heavy snowfall, snowstorms and avalanches, the NDRRMA said. Rojan Lamichhane, a meteorologist at the Meteorological Forecasting Division under the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology, said the cyclone is intensifying and is expected to develop into a severe cyclonic storm before making landfall near Yanam between Andhra Pradesh and Visakhapatnam in India on October 28. The system is expected to weaken gradually as it moves inland towards Nepal but its effects are likely to be felt in the country's hills and Himalayan regions with a greater impact expected in the Himalayas, Lamichhane said. The weather system is also expected to affect Kathmandu Valley. The DHM has advised farmers to complete agricultural activities, including harvesting and bringing in paddy crops by Wednesday afternoon before the rainfall begins. The rainfall is also expected to raise river levels. The DHM said major river basins across the country are expected to remain at normal levels on Wednesday but water levels will begin rising from Thursday in the Narayani, Koshi, Bagmati and Kamala basins. Between Friday and Saturday, continuous heavy rainfall could push river flows towards warning and vigilance thresholds, particularly in the Narayani, Koshi, Bagmati, Kamala and Tinau basins. Minor rises are also expected in the Mahakali, Karnali, West Rapti and Babai rivers. The DHM has identified hilly, chure and tarai catchments as areas of concern where small rivers and tributaries face risks of flash floods and waterlogging. The NDRRMA has advised tourists to avoid travelling to high hills and Himalayan areas during the alert period. Those already in these areas have been urged to remain in safe locations. It has also warned that road and air transport and other aspects of daily life could be disrupted and urged people to avoid travel unless essential and to stay away from high-risk areas particularly riverbanks that could be affected by flooding. The cyclone's influence is expected to gradually weaken from Saturday night, Lamichhane said.

Koshi, Bagmati, Madhes, Gandaki and Lumbini provinces are expected to be particularly affected on Friday and Saturday, with moderate rainfall, thunderstorms, lightning and strong winds likely in many places. Heavy rainfall is possible in a few locations.

Nepal on high alert as Cyclone Arnab approaches; heavy rain, floods expected

Americans head to the polls on November 3 in midterm elections that will determine whether President Donald Trump’s Republicans retain control of Congress or face Democratic majorities during the final two years of his presidency.Rising living costs, the war with Iran and dissatisfaction with Trump have put Republicans under pressure, while Democrats are contesting seats in districts that have traditionally favoured the GOP. But redrawn congressional boundaries, heavy campaign spending and uncertainty in polling have made the race for control difficult to call.The stakes extend beyond individual candidates. A change in control of either chamber would affect the administration’s ability to advance legislation and shape congressional scrutiny of its policies.<h2>The arithmetic: What each party needs</h2>Republicans hold a 53-47 majority in the Senate. Democrats need a net gain of four seats to reach 51 and take control, since a 50-50 split would leave Republicans in charge through Vice President JD Vance’s tie-breaking vote.<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn3.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20261027/image-1793096372531.png"></figure>All 435 House seats are being contested. Democrats need to reach at least 218 seats to secure a majority in the next session, making a handful of closely fought districts particularly important.<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn3.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20261027/image-1793096363557.png"></figure>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-midterms-2026-dead-for-years-paedophile-jeffrey-epstein-finds-mention-in-over-500-campaign-ads-texas-alone-spent-10-million-1792839624663">US Midterms 2026: Dead for years, paedophile Jeffrey Epstein finds mention in over 500 campaign ads; Texas alone spent $10 million</a><h2>Eight Senate races to watch</h2><ul><li>South Carolina: The special election was triggered by the death of long-time Republican incumbent Lindsey Graham on July 11, 2026, after which Governor Henry McMaster appointed Graham's sister, Darline Graham, to temporarily fill the seat. She is facing Democratic candidate Dr Annie Andrews, and the winner will become the first woman elected to represent South Carolina in the US Senate.</li><li>Texas: Democrat James Talarico faces Republican Ken Paxton, the state attorney general backed by Trump. Paxton’s controversies have drawn attention to a state that has long favoured Republicans, although he retains strong conservative support.</li><li>Ohio: Former Democratic senator Sherrod Brown is seeking a return to the Senate against Republican Jon Husted, who was appointed to the seat after Vance became vice president. The contest is unfolding amid economic concerns.</li><li>Maine: Republican Susan Collins faces Democrat Troy Jackson. Collins has repeatedly won in a state that tends to vote Democratic in presidential elections.</li><li>Alaska: Democrat Mary Peltola is challenging Republican Senator Dan Sullivan. Peltola’s standing among voters has made the contest more competitive than Alaska’s Republican lean might suggest.</li><li>Iowa: Republican Ashley Hinson and Democrat Josh Turek are competing for the seat being vacated by Senator Joni Ernst. Agricultural and energy costs have become prominent campaign issues.</li><li>Kansas: Democrat Adam Hamilton is challenging Republican Roger Marshall. Trump has campaigned for Marshall amid signs of a tighter contest than Republicans might expect in a state that has not elected a Democratic senator since 1932.</li><li>Michigan: Republican Mike Rogers is seeking to capture the seat being vacated by Democrat Gary Peters, facing Democrat Abdul El-Sayed. The contest represents an important pickup opportunity for Republicans.</li></ul>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-s-100-000-h-1b-fee-why-neither-republicans-nor-democrats-want-to-make-it-a-2026-us-midterm-issue-1791971903938">Trump's $100,000 H-1B fee: Why neither Republicans nor Democrats want to make it a 2026 US Midterm issue</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn3.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20261027/image-1793093008242.png"></figure><h2>Ten House races that could shape the outcome</h2>The House battle is centred on districts where small changes in turnout, campaign spending or voter sentiment could decide the winner.<ul><li>New York’s 17th district: Republican Mike Lawler faces Democrat Cait Conley in a district Kamala Harris won in 2024. Both campaigns had raised around $10 million through September, while Republican-aligned outside groups held a substantial spending advantage.</li><li>Colorado’s 8th district: Republican Gabe Evans faces Democrat Manny Rutinel. Trump won the district by 1.8 percentage points in 2024, and outside spending from both sides has approached $12 million each.</li><li>Texas’s 34th district: Democrat Vicente Gonzalez is running against Republican Eric Flores. Republican redistricting efforts have put several South Texas seats in play, while spending by outside groups has favoured Republicans in this contest.</li><li>North Carolina’s 1st district: Democrat Don Davis is seeking re-election against Republican Laurie Buckhout after the district was redrawn to favour Republicans. Outside spending has reached about $30 million.</li><li>Florida’s 25th district: Republicans redrew the state’s congressional map in an effort to gain seats. Democrat Jared Moskowitz is facing Republican Scott Singer in a contest where outside spending has helped narrow the financial gap.</li><li>Maine’s 2nd district: Republican Paul LePage is challenging Democrat Matt Dunlap after incumbent Democrat Jared Golden decided not to seek re-election. The district backed Trump by nine points in 2024.</li><li>Ohio’s 7th district: Republican Max Miller faces Democrat Brian Poindexter. Notably, domestic and child abuse allegations made by Miller’s former wife and a former girlfriend have drawn scrutiny amid the race; Miller has denied the allegations.</li><li>Iowa’s 1st district: Republican Mariannette Miller-Meeks faces Democrat Christina Bohannan in a rematch. Cost-of-living concerns, including the price of diesel and fertiliser, are prominent in the contest.</li><li>Washington’s 3rd district: Democrat Marie Gluesenkamp Perez is seeking re-election against Republican John Braun. The district narrowly backed Trump in 2024, and the race has drawn significant outside spending.</li><li>Montana’s 1st district: Republican Aaron Flint faces Democrat Sam Forstag, a union leader and smokejumper. The district backed Trump by nearly 12 percentage points in 2024, but the supplied analysis cites recent polling showing a close contest.</li><li>&nbsp;</li></ul><h2>Polls put Republicans under pressure</h2>A Reuters/Ipsos poll completed on October 26 found Trump’s approval rating at 32 per cent, one point higher than the previous reading but still close to the lowest levels of his presidency. Democrats led Republicans 47 per cent to 36 per cent among registered voters on the generic congressional ballot. After accounting for undecided voters’ preferences, the Democratic lead narrowed to nine points.The poll also found that 73 per cent of respondents believed the cost of living was moving in the wrong direction. Economic concerns, including inflation and gasoline prices following US military strikes on Iran, have become central to the campaign.National polling, however, cannot determine the outcome of individual Senate or House races. Local candidates, turnout, district boundaries and campaign resources will all matter.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/what-is-gerrymandering-these-new-us-maps-could-hand-republicans-or-democrats-the-house-decide-the-2026-midterms-1791367566921">What is Gerrymandering? These new US maps could decide the 2026 US midterms</a><h2>US midterms 2026: A record advertising battle</h2>The 2026 election cycle is expected to set a record for political advertising. AdImpact projected in June that spending would reach $11.6 billion, exceeding the $8.9 billion spent during the 2022 midterms and the $11.2 billion recorded in the 2024 presidential cycle.The spending is concentrated in competitive races, where campaigns and outside groups are trying to reach voters through television, streaming and digital platforms. The money does not guarantee victory, but it reflects the importance both parties attach to the handful of contests that could determine control of Congress.For Republicans, the challenge is to defend narrow majorities amid voter concern about the economy and Trump’s standing. Democrats are seeking to turn that dissatisfaction into gains across both chambers, but their route to Senate control remains more demanding than their path in the House.The result on November 3 will decide whether Trump enters the final two years of his term with Congress largely aligned with his administration or faces a legislature controlled, in whole or in part, by the opposition.&nbsp;

The November 3 US midterms will decide whether Republicans retain control of Congress. With Trump’s approval rating at 32% and living costs a major concern, both parties are pouring resources into key Senate and House races. These are the battles to watch.

Americans head to the polls on November 3 in midterm elections that will determine whether President Donald Trump’s Republicans retain control of Congress or face Democratic majorities during the final two years of his presidency. Rising living costs, the war with Iran and dissatisfaction with Trump have put Republicans under pressure, while Democrats are contesting seats in districts that have traditionally favoured the GOP. But redrawn congressional boundaries, heavy campaign spending and uncertainty in polling have made the race for control difficult to call. The stakes extend beyond individual candidates. A change in control of either chamber would affect the administration’s ability to advance legislation and shape congressional scrutiny of its policies. The arithmetic: What each party needs Republicans hold a 53-47 majority in the Senate. Democrats need a net gain of four seats to reach 51 and take control, since a 50-50 split would leave Republicans in charge through Vice President JD Vance’s tie-breaking vote. All 435 House seats are being contested. Democrats need to reach at least 218 seats to secure a majority in the next session, making a handful of closely fought districts particularly important. Also read | US Midterms 2026: Dead for years, paedophile Jeffrey Epstein finds mention in over 500 campaign ads; Texas alone spent $10 million Eight Senate races to watch South Carolina: The special election was triggered by the death of long-time Republican incumbent Lindsey Graham on July 11, 2026, after which Governor Henry McMaster appointed Graham's sister, Darline Graham, to temporarily fill the seat. She is facing Democratic candidate Dr Annie Andrews, and the winner will become the first woman elected to represent South Carolina in the US Senate. Texas: Democrat James Talarico faces Republican Ken Paxton, the state attorney general backed by Trump. Paxton’s controversies have drawn attention to a state that has long favoured Republicans, although he retains strong conservative support. Ohio: Former Democratic senator Sherrod Brown is seeking a return to the Senate against Republican Jon Husted, who was appointed to the seat after Vance became vice president. The contest is unfolding amid economic concerns. Maine: Republican Susan Collins faces Democrat Troy Jackson. Collins has repeatedly won in a state that tends to vote Democratic in presidential elections. Alaska: Democrat Mary Peltola is challenging Republican Senator Dan Sullivan. Peltola’s standing among voters has made the contest more competitive than Alaska’s Republican lean might suggest. Iowa: Republican Ashley Hinson and Democrat Josh Turek are competing for the seat being vacated by Senator Joni Ernst. Agricultural and energy costs have become prominent campaign issues. Kansas: Democrat Adam Hamilton is challenging Republican Roger Marshall. Trump has campaigned for Marshall amid signs of a tighter contest than Republicans might expect in a state that has not elected a Democratic senator since 1932. Michigan: Republican Mike Rogers is seeking to capture the seat being vacated by Democrat Gary Peters, facing Democrat Abdul El-Sayed. The contest represents an important pickup opportunity for Republicans. Also read | Trump's $100,000 H-1B fee: Why neither Republicans nor Democrats want to make it a 2026 US Midterm issue Ten House races that could shape the outcome The House battle is centred on districts where small changes in turnout, campaign spending or voter sentiment could decide the winner. New York’s 17th district: Republican Mike Lawler faces Democrat Cait Conley in a district Kamala Harris won in 2024. Both campaigns had raised around $10 million through September, while Republican-aligned outside groups held a substantial spending advantage. Colorado’s 8th district: Republican Gabe Evans faces Democrat Manny Rutinel. Trump won the district by 1.8 percentage points in 2024, and outside spending from both sides has approached $12 million each. Texas’s 34th district: Democrat Vicente Gonzalez is running against Republican Eric Flores. Republican redistricting efforts have put several South Texas seats in play, while spending by outside groups has favoured Republicans in this contest. North Carolina’s 1st district: Democrat Don Davis is seeking re-election against Republican Laurie Buckhout after the district was redrawn to favour Republicans. Outside spending has reached about $30 million. Florida’s 25th district: Republicans redrew the state’s congressional map in an effort to gain seats. Democrat Jared Moskowitz is facing Republican Scott Singer in a contest where outside spending has helped narrow the financial gap. Maine’s 2nd district: Republican Paul LePage is challenging Democrat Matt Dunlap after incumbent Democrat Jared Golden decided not to seek re-election. The district backed Trump by nine points in 2024. Ohio’s 7th district: Republican Max Miller faces Democrat Brian Poindexter. Notably, domestic and child abuse allegations made by Miller’s former wife and a former girlfriend have drawn scrutiny amid the race; Miller has denied the allegations. Iowa’s 1st district: Republican Mariannette Miller-Meeks faces Democrat Christina Bohannan in a rematch. Cost-of-living concerns, including the price of diesel and fertiliser, are prominent in the contest. Washington’s 3rd district: Democrat Marie Gluesenkamp Perez is seeking re-election against Republican John Braun. The district narrowly backed Trump in 2024, and the race has drawn significant outside spending. Montana’s 1st district: Republican Aaron Flint faces Democrat Sam Forstag, a union leader and smokejumper. The district backed Trump by nearly 12 percentage points in 2024, but the supplied analysis cites recent polling showing a close contest. Polls put Republicans under pressure A Reuters/Ipsos poll completed on October 26 found Trump’s approval rating at 32 per cent, one point higher than the previous reading but still close to the lowest levels of his presidency. Democrats led Republicans 47 per cent to 36 per cent among registered voters on the generic congressional ballot. After accounting for undecided voters’ preferences, the Democratic lead narrowed to nine points. The poll also found that 73 per cent of respondents believed the cost of living was moving in the wrong direction. Economic concerns, including inflation and gasoline prices following US military strikes on Iran, have become central to the campaign. National polling, however, cannot determine the outcome of individual Senate or House races. Local candidates, turnout, district boundaries and campaign resources will all matter. Also read | What is Gerrymandering? These new US maps could decide the 2026 US midterms US midterms 2026: A record advertising battle The 2026 election cycle is expected to set a record for political advertising. AdImpact projected in June that spending would reach $11.6 billion, exceeding the $8.9 billion spent during the 2022 midterms and the $11.2 billion recorded in the 2024 presidential cycle. The spending is concentrated in competitive races, where campaigns and outside groups are trying to reach voters through television, streaming and digital platforms. The money does not guarantee victory, but it reflects the importance both parties attach to the handful of contests that could determine control of Congress. For Republicans, the challenge is to defend narrow majorities amid voter concern about the economy and Trump’s standing. Democrats are seeking to turn that dissatisfaction into gains across both chambers, but their route to Senate control remains more demanding than their path in the House. The result on November 3 will decide whether Trump enters the final two years of his term with Congress largely aligned with his administration or faces a legislature controlled, in whole or in part, by the opposition.

The November 3 US midterms will decide whether Republicans retain control of Congress. With Trump’s approval rating at 32% and living costs a major concern, both parties are pouring resources into key Senate and House races. These are the battles to watch.

US midterms 2026: Talarico vs Paxton, El-Sayed vs Rogers and more – Key Senate, House battles and the numbers that could decide Congress

Polling has opened in Israel as Israelis flocked to polling booth for voting in a pivotal election on Tuesday (Oct 27). 7,331,981 eligible voters headed to the ballot box, with voting scheduled to end at 10 pm (local time). Yair Golan, leader of the Democrats party and a candidate for the Knesset, and Itamar Ben-Gvir, Israel's National Security Minister and leader of the Otzma Yehudit party, cast their votes. Golan voted in Rosh Ha’ayin alongside his wife and grandson, declaring, “Today, we are saving Israel" and Ben-Gvir voted in Kiryat Arba alongside his wife. Party leaders urged supporters to turn out in large numbers in an election to determine the country's next government.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-are-israel-s-anti-defection-laws-and-how-could-they-shape-post-poll-coalition-strategy-wion-explains-1793072633642">What are Israel’s anti-defection laws</a> Speaking to ANI in Jerusalem, a voter stressed the importance of participation in the electoral process, irrespective of political preferences, and expressed hope that the election would help improve the situation in Israel. "I think it's very important that everyone should get out of their house and cast their vote. Even if it's for one party or the other party, everybody should come here and vote. I think that's the first thing that I'm putting my mind to today, and I just hope that the people who are going to vote will bring this country to a better place. I'm sure that the next prime minister, whether it stays Benjamin Netanyahu or if it's someone else, will, of course, do everything to change it and make the situation better," the voter told ANI.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/done-a-very-good-job-as-israel-votes-trump-says-netanyahu-did-not-ask-for-second-endorsement-1793065672228">'Done a very good job': As Israel votes, Trump says Netanyahu did not ask for second endorsement</a> &nbsp;Another voter, Uziel Khazan, described the election as the most important one he had ever participated in and called for a change in Israel's political direction. "Yes, today I voted, and I think this is the most important voting that I have ever done. The message is that Israel needs a change. It needs a change. It is a fatal period for this nation. A quarter-million Israelis left Israel—the best, the elite of Israel, high-tech and the professionals—and they want to come back here if they see that there is a change. Because during these 20 years, we lost the democracy, we lost the law, we lost the respect for each other, and the unity," Khazan told ANI.&nbsp; Gideon, a PhD student at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, also described voting as a celebration of democracy and said he hoped the election would bring change after the previous four years. Addressing young people in Israel, Gideon urged them to participate in the electoral process and use their voting rights to bring about change. "Yes, I would like to send a message for everyone that go and use your right to vote, and make the change for the democracy," he said. Meanwhile, another voter, Hana, told ANI that she had voted for the Amcha Yisrael team, expressing confidence in its ability to work towards a better future and peace for Israel. "Yes. So I voted today to a team—the name of the team is Amcha Yisrael. It's the best team, I think. And the first guy of the team is Ofer Winter. He's a really good guy and has like a lot of... he wants to do the best and to help our... Israel to have a better future, and to have peace, and to manage whatever we need to, what we are dealing on. And he wants to be—I don't know how you say it in English..., like to protect... safety," Hana told ANI. Meanwhile, Israel President Isaac Herzog has cast his vote in the ongoing elections to the 120 member Knesset.&nbsp;Sharing a photo of himself and his wife at the polling booth, Herzog said," We've already voted - and you? Go out and vote." Herzog will play a critical role in Government formation. After the votes are tallied later tonight, President Herzog will consult the leaders of the elected parties before tasking the lawmaker he believes has the best chance of forming a government. That candidate will have 28 days to cobble together a coalition, with a possible 14-day extension.&nbsp;

Israelis are voting in a pivotal Knesset election, with 7.3 million eligible voters casting ballots to decide the country’s next government. President Isaac Herzog, Itamar Ben-Gvir and Yair Golan were among those who voted, while voters expressed hopes for change and a better future.

Polling has opened in Israel as Israelis flocked to polling booth for voting in a pivotal election on Tuesday (Oct 27). 7,331,981 eligible voters headed to the ballot box, with voting scheduled to end at 10 pm (local time). Yair Golan, leader of the Democrats party and a candidate for the Knesset, and Itamar Ben-Gvir, Israel's National Security Minister and leader of the Otzma Yehudit party, cast their votes. Golan voted in Rosh Ha’ayin alongside his wife and grandson, declaring, “Today, we are saving Israel" and Ben-Gvir voted in Kiryat Arba alongside his wife. Party leaders urged supporters to turn out in large numbers in an election to determine the country's next government. Also Read: What are Israel’s anti-defection laws Speaking to ANI in Jerusalem, a voter stressed the importance of participation in the electoral process, irrespective of political preferences, and expressed hope that the election would help improve the situation in Israel. "I think it's very important that everyone should get out of their house and cast their vote. Even if it's for one party or the other party, everybody should come here and vote. I think that's the first thing that I'm putting my mind to today, and I just hope that the people who are going to vote will bring this country to a better place. I'm sure that the next prime minister, whether it stays Benjamin Netanyahu or if it's someone else, will, of course, do everything to change it and make the situation better," the voter told ANI. Also Read: 'Done a very good job': As Israel votes, Trump says Netanyahu did not ask for second endorsement Another voter, Uziel Khazan, described the election as the most important one he had ever participated in and called for a change in Israel's political direction. "Yes, today I voted, and I think this is the most important voting that I have ever done. The message is that Israel needs a change. It needs a change. It is a fatal period for this nation. A quarter-million Israelis left Israel—the best, the elite of Israel, high-tech and the professionals—and they want to come back here if they see that there is a change. Because during these 20 years, we lost the democracy, we lost the law, we lost the respect for each other, and the unity," Khazan told ANI. Gideon, a PhD student at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem, also described voting as a celebration of democracy and said he hoped the election would bring change after the previous four years. Addressing young people in Israel, Gideon urged them to participate in the electoral process and use their voting rights to bring about change. "Yes, I would like to send a message for everyone that go and use your right to vote, and make the change for the democracy," he said. Meanwhile, another voter, Hana, told ANI that she had voted for the Amcha Yisrael team, expressing confidence in its ability to work towards a better future and peace for Israel. "Yes. So I voted today to a team—the name of the team is Amcha Yisrael. It's the best team, I think. And the first guy of the team is Ofer Winter. He's a really good guy and has like a lot of... he wants to do the best and to help our... Israel to have a better future, and to have peace, and to manage whatever we need to, what we are dealing on. And he wants to be—I don't know how you say it in English..., like to protect... safety," Hana told ANI. Meanwhile, Israel President Isaac Herzog has cast his vote in the ongoing elections to the 120 member Knesset. Sharing a photo of himself and his wife at the polling booth, Herzog said," We've already voted - and you? Go out and vote." Herzog will play a critical role in Government formation. After the votes are tallied later tonight, President Herzog will consult the leaders of the elected parties before tasking the lawmaker he believes has the best chance of forming a government. That candidate will have 28 days to cobble together a coalition, with a possible 14-day extension.

Israelis are voting in a pivotal Knesset election, with 7.3 million eligible voters casting ballots to decide the country’s next government. President Isaac Herzog, Itamar Ben-Gvir and Yair Golan were among those who voted, while voters expressed hopes for change and a better future.

Israel election: Polling begins as 7.3 million voters head to ballot box

India on Monday (Oct 26) renewed its push for comprehensive United Nations Security Council reform, telling the world body that the veto held by the five permanent members must not be reduced to a tool of narrow political expediency. Delivering India's statement, the country's Permanent Representative to the UN, Parvathaneni Harish, stressed that the veto carries an immense burden of responsibility that requires restraint, especially on matters of global security."India has always maintained that the veto, which is right now a prerogative only of the five permanent members of the UN Security Council, is a responsibility that must be exercised with great restraint, especially on matters bearing upon the maintenance of international peace and security. It should not be an instrument of narrow political expediency," Parvathaneni said.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/reason-un-has-lost-credibility-india-hits-out-at-un-report-alleging-youth-repression-questions-reliance-on-anonymous-submissions-1792208664112">'Reason UN has lost credibility': Amid SIR protests India hits out at report alleging 'youth repression'</a><h2>India flags stark record of Veto</h2>Citing the historical trajectory of the veto's usage, the Indian envoy <a href="https://pminewyork.gov.in/IndiaatUNGA?id=NTY5OQ">highlighted </a>how its disproportionate exercise by a handful of members has undermined the credibility of the Council, adding that recent accountability mechanisms have failed to deter its frequent use."The record of the Veto is stark. Over the life of this Organisation, the veto has been exercised 331 times on around 200 resolutions. We also note that two out of the five permanent members have not exercised a veto for over three and a half decades, and most of the vetos or threats of vetos have emanated from only three of the P5. The Veto Initiative of 2022 was seen as a harbinger of change, by mandating a UNGA debate every time a veto is cast, to fix accountability. However, the actual record of the large number of vetos cast since the UNGAR 76/262 was adopted tells a contrary story," the ambassador remarked.Underlining that addressing the veto in isolation is ineffective, he pressed for the urgent launch of text-based negotiations covering all critical reform clusters simultaneously. "Limiting the veto cannot be separated from the questions of categories of membership, regional representation, size and working methods. We need to move forward on all five clusters together. India reiterates its call for a comprehensive approach towards Security Council reforms. The starting point is early commencement of text-based negotiations, with clearly defined timelines and milestones. Addressing the veto in isolation does not change the decision-making dynamic of the P5," he said.

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Read full statement here: https://t.co/orS59iJ5II&mdash; India at UN, NY (@IndiaUNNewYork) <a href="https://x.com/IndiaUNNewYork/status/2114872428933607821?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 27, 2026</a></blockquote>
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Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistan-1-5-million-children-experienced-online-sexual-abuse-in-a-year-un-study-warns-1791967191274">UN study exposes Pakistan's child abuse crisis; 1.5 million children experienced online sexual abuse in a year</a><h2>The hidden veto</h2>The ambassador also brought attention to less visible blocking mechanisms within the council, noting that procedural consensus rules often act as hidden vetoes."The veto is not only what is cast in the open. There is also the 'effective or de facto veto' that every Council member, elected and non-elected, holds over presidential statements, press statements and the decisions of sanctions committees, where the unwritten rule of consensus allows a single member to hold or block a proposal, most often without explanation," Parvathaneni Harish asserted.<h2>India calls for equal rights for all permanent members</h2>Reaffirming India's alignment with the Common African Position, he maintained that true fairness necessitates equal responsibilities and powers for all permanent members in an expanded Council, rejecting proposals for secondary tiers of permanent seats."We reiterate that as long as the veto exists, it must be held by all permanent members of a reformed Council. Fairness and justice demand that all permanent members enjoy the same rights and responsibilities. A new category of permanent members, with or without the veto, would only further complicate a discussion that is already difficult, and would further entrench the very inequity we are seeking to correct. Periodic elections and the concept of permanency are fundamentally contradictory," Parvathaneni affirmed.

India has told the UN that the veto power of 5 permanent Security Council members must not become "an instrument of narrow political expediency." Delivering India's statement, Envoy Parvathaneni Harish cited a stark record of 331 vetoes on around 200 resolutions, mostly from three of the P5.

India on Monday (Oct 26) renewed its push for comprehensive United Nations Security Council reform, telling the world body that the veto held by the five permanent members must not be reduced to a tool of narrow political expediency. Delivering India's statement, the country's Permanent Representative to the UN, Parvathaneni Harish, stressed that the veto carries an immense burden of responsibility that requires restraint, especially on matters of global security. "India has always maintained that the veto, which is right now a prerogative only of the five permanent members of the UN Security Council, is a responsibility that must be exercised with great restraint, especially on matters bearing upon the maintenance of international peace and security. It should not be an instrument of narrow political expediency," Parvathaneni said. Also read | 'Reason UN has lost credibility': Amid SIR protests India hits out at report alleging 'youth repression' India flags stark record of Veto Citing the historical trajectory of the veto's usage, the Indian envoy highlighted how its disproportionate exercise by a handful of members has undermined the credibility of the Council, adding that recent accountability mechanisms have failed to deter its frequent use. "The record of the Veto is stark. Over the life of this Organisation, the veto has been exercised 331 times on around 200 resolutions. We also note that two out of the five permanent members have not exercised a veto for over three and a half decades, and most of the vetos or threats of vetos have emanated from only three of the P5. The Veto Initiative of 2022 was seen as a harbinger of change, by mandating a UNGA debate every time a veto is cast, to fix accountability. However, the actual record of the large number of vetos cast since the UNGAR 76/262 was adopted tells a contrary story," the ambassador remarked. Underlining that addressing the veto in isolation is ineffective, he pressed for the urgent launch of text-based negotiations covering all critical reform clusters simultaneously. "Limiting the veto cannot be separated from the questions of categories of membership, regional representation, size and working methods. We need to move forward on all five clusters together. India reiterates its call for a comprehensive approach towards Security Council reforms. The starting point is early commencement of text-based negotiations, with clearly defined timelines and milestones. Addressing the veto in isolation does not change the decision-making dynamic of the P5," he said.

India has told the UN that the veto power of 5 permanent Security Council members must not become "an instrument of narrow political expediency." Delivering India's statement, Envoy Parvathaneni Harish cited a stark record of 331 vetoes on around 200 resolutions, mostly from three of the P5.

India renews UNSC reform push, slams 'disproportionate' veto use says power must not be 'an instrument of narrow political expediency'

A birthkeeper faces potential criminal charges in Australia for allegedly grooming women to fear the hospital and choose freebirth. Emily Lal is in court for the death of Stacey Warnecke in September 2025, who suffered a postpartum haemorrhage after giving birth at home. Lal was paid $6,000 to support Stacey throughout the pregnancy.&nbsp;“Ms Lal saw her role as to groom her clients into being strong enough to resist the temptation to seek medical help during labour, to seek pain relief during labour, to go to hospital during labour,” Rachel Ellyard, counsel assisting the coroner, said in a statement on Monday (October 26).&nbsp;Lal claims that Warnecke hired her to be there as a supportive friend, and the money paid was primarily for her time, and no kind of medical advice was ever given. Ellyard cited WhatsApp messages in court which directly contradicted this claim. The messages were from a group chat Lal managed for women who were choosing freebirth.&nbsp;“It’s clear that Ms Lal thought that in most cases, going to hospital would represent a failure of someone who hadn’t done the work, who hadn’t understood enough what the intensity of labour was going to be," Ellyard said.&nbsp;A call between Warnecke and Lal was also played in the court in which the former can be heard asking Lal, “Am I dying, or am I alright?” She also told her that she was afraid of the hospital, to which Lal responded, &nbsp;“You should be scared of the hospital. It’s a terrifying place. For me personally, I think the biggest, the key … to actually staying home and having your baby … is that your mindset and your condition need to be so solid."<h2>Who is a birth keeper?</h2> A birthkeeper is an individual who operates outside the formal medical and midwifery system. They support pregnant women during pregnancy, labour, and childbirth. They hold no medical qualifications or clinical training to do so. They are frequently linked to the "freebirthing" movement, where women give birth intentionally without medical professionals or doctors.&nbsp;They are envisioned as "wise women" and "companions" who will be with them as traditional and holistic guides. Birthkeepers face criticism for lacking training and expertise, and yet helping women give freebirths. Some of them have been accused of pushing a fear of hospitals in women, as heard in coronial inquests and legal proceedings.&nbsp;

A birthkeeper in Australia could be prosecuted for instilling a fear of hospitals in a woman who eventually died of haemorrhage. They are mostly linked with the freebirthing movement, where women give birth without any medical practitioners present.

A birthkeeper faces potential criminal charges in Australia for allegedly grooming women to fear the hospital and choose freebirth. Emily Lal is in court for the death of Stacey Warnecke in September 2025, who suffered a postpartum haemorrhage after giving birth at home. Lal was paid $6,000 to support Stacey throughout the pregnancy. “Ms Lal saw her role as to groom her clients into being strong enough to resist the temptation to seek medical help during labour, to seek pain relief during labour, to go to hospital during labour,” Rachel Ellyard, counsel assisting the coroner, said in a statement on Monday (October 26). Lal claims that Warnecke hired her to be there as a supportive friend, and the money paid was primarily for her time, and no kind of medical advice was ever given. Ellyard cited WhatsApp messages in court which directly contradicted this claim. The messages were from a group chat Lal managed for women who were choosing freebirth. “It’s clear that Ms Lal thought that in most cases, going to hospital would represent a failure of someone who hadn’t done the work, who hadn’t understood enough what the intensity of labour was going to be," Ellyard said. A call between Warnecke and Lal was also played in the court in which the former can be heard asking Lal, “Am I dying, or am I alright?” She also told her that she was afraid of the hospital, to which Lal responded, “You should be scared of the hospital. It’s a terrifying place. For me personally, I think the biggest, the key … to actually staying home and having your baby … is that your mindset and your condition need to be so solid." Who is a birth keeper? A birthkeeper is an individual who operates outside the formal medical and midwifery system. They support pregnant women during pregnancy, labour, and childbirth. They hold no medical qualifications or clinical training to do so. They are frequently linked to the "freebirthing" movement, where women give birth intentionally without medical professionals or doctors. They are envisioned as "wise women" and "companions" who will be with them as traditional and holistic guides. Birthkeepers face criticism for lacking training and expertise, and yet helping women give freebirths. Some of them have been accused of pushing a fear of hospitals in women, as heard in coronial inquests and legal proceedings.

A birthkeeper in Australia could be prosecuted for instilling a fear of hospitals in a woman who eventually died of haemorrhage. They are mostly linked with the freebirthing movement, where women give birth without any medical practitioners present.

Birthkeeper accused of instilling fear of hospitals in pregnant women. Who are they?

Anthropic's IPO prospectus shows just how scared the bosses are of artificial intelligence themselves. The company is set to have the biggest ever initial public offering on Wall Street, with valuation expected to touch $2 trillion. But Anthropic has openly admitted that AI can kill all of humanity in the future if it is not handled responsibly. A total of 335 pages list multiple things about AI, including how one day it can become a "global security threat."&nbsp;The biggest red flag in the prospectus states: "Sufficiently advanced AI systems could, if not developed, deployed, and operated with appropriate safeguards, oversight, and security measures, pose catastrophic or existential risks to humanity." This line echoes the views of several other experts who have openly admitted that things might go haywire and against humanity with AI in the future.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/80-pages-of-warnings-anthropic-warns-investors-about-risks-from-its-own-ai-models-1790752573894">‘80 pages of warnings’: Anthropic warns investors about risks from its own AI models</a>&nbsp;While the prospectus starts with positive pitches, stating how AI can solve many of the world's problems, words like "If managed well", "avoid its dangers", and "a global security threat of the first order" ring warning bells about the technology.<h2>AI can be used for good and bad</h2>"We believe that AI is one of the most consequential technologies in human history. If managed well, it could rapidly accelerate scientific innovation, greatly increase economic growth rates, bring cures for major diseases within reach, and solve problems that have resisted generations of human effort," it states.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/case-of-mass-psychosis-ai-researchers-are-smoking-to-prove-it-can-cure-cancer-1791962968140">AI researchers are smoking because they are sure AGI can cure cancer</a>&nbsp;"To build AI is to harness cognition itself, and anything so powerful can be used for ill as well as good," it reads, adding that the company was set up "to help the world realise AI's benefits and avoid its dangers."&nbsp;It further reads that "Authoritarian governments may use AI to create high-tech surveillance states, deepen repression, and make themselves much more difficult to dislodge."&nbsp;“AI can be misused by those who wish to do harm, for example to conduct cyberattacks or to design biological weapons.” Amodei said that they work to keep out bad actors, such as when Houthis used Claude to build ballistic missiles earlier this year.<h2>AI can become an existential risk to humanity</h2>Amodei, who started Anthropic after leaving OpenAI following disagreements over AI safety, issued a stark warning about the scenario when AI might go rogue and start working on its own without human control. "[This] could be a global security threat of the first order," he said.He admits AI "poses catastrophic or existential risk to humanity", but one that can be controlled through "appropriate safeguards, oversight, and security measures."&nbsp;The manifesto is not all scare fest as Amodei lists the several ways it has helped people. "'In California, Claude is helping to shorten the lines at the DMV, and to better serve people on Medicaid," it states. It is helping job seekers "find their way through government services" in the UK. AI can make breakthroughs in biology and medicine and cure diseases that have been around for thousands of years.&nbsp;"We hope you will see it as an opportunity to be part of something greater. The advent of machine intelligence is one of the seminal moments in human history," it wrote at the end.

Anthropic's sales pitch for its upcoming IPO reads like a horror script from the future. Amodei lists the good and the bad in it, warning that it could become a major risk of the highest order and annihilate humanity if not handled well.

Anthropic's IPO prospectus shows just how scared the bosses are of artificial intelligence themselves. The company is set to have the biggest ever initial public offering on Wall Street, with valuation expected to touch $2 trillion. But Anthropic has openly admitted that AI can kill all of humanity in the future if it is not handled responsibly. A total of 335 pages list multiple things about AI, including how one day it can become a "global security threat." The biggest red flag in the prospectus states: "Sufficiently advanced AI systems could, if not developed, deployed, and operated with appropriate safeguards, oversight, and security measures, pose catastrophic or existential risks to humanity." This line echoes the views of several other experts who have openly admitted that things might go haywire and against humanity with AI in the future. Also Read: ‘80 pages of warnings’: Anthropic warns investors about risks from its own AI models While the prospectus starts with positive pitches, stating how AI can solve many of the world's problems, words like "If managed well", "avoid its dangers", and "a global security threat of the first order" ring warning bells about the technology. AI can be used for good and bad "We believe that AI is one of the most consequential technologies in human history. If managed well, it could rapidly accelerate scientific innovation, greatly increase economic growth rates, bring cures for major diseases within reach, and solve problems that have resisted generations of human effort," it states. Also Read: AI researchers are smoking because they are sure AGI can cure cancer "To build AI is to harness cognition itself, and anything so powerful can be used for ill as well as good," it reads, adding that the company was set up "to help the world realise AI's benefits and avoid its dangers." It further reads that "Authoritarian governments may use AI to create high-tech surveillance states, deepen repression, and make themselves much more difficult to dislodge." “AI can be misused by those who wish to do harm, for example to conduct cyberattacks or to design biological weapons.” Amodei said that they work to keep out bad actors, such as when Houthis used Claude to build ballistic missiles earlier this year. AI can become an existential risk to humanity Amodei, who started Anthropic after leaving OpenAI following disagreements over AI safety, issued a stark warning about the scenario when AI might go rogue and start working on its own without human control. "[This] could be a global security threat of the first order," he said. He admits AI "poses catastrophic or existential risk to humanity", but one that can be controlled through "appropriate safeguards, oversight, and security measures." The manifesto is not all scare fest as Amodei lists the several ways it has helped people. "'In California, Claude is helping to shorten the lines at the DMV, and to better serve people on Medicaid," it states. It is helping job seekers "find their way through government services" in the UK. AI can make breakthroughs in biology and medicine and cure diseases that have been around for thousands of years. "We hope you will see it as an opportunity to be part of something greater. The advent of machine intelligence is one of the seminal moments in human history," it wrote at the end.

Anthropic's upcoming IPO prospectus reads like a horror script from the future. Amodei lists the good and the bad in it, warning that it could become a major risk of the highest order and annihilate humanity if not handled well.

Trick or Treat -Anthropic's IPO sales pitch is the perfect Halloween scare for AI enthusiasts

A former model and Miss Switzerland has accused US President Donald Trump of rape in a report released Monday (Oct 26) by House Democrats investigating the president's alleged ties to disgraced financier and paedophile Jeffrey Epstein's crimes. Beatrice Keul, who before the 2024 election claimed Trump had groped her in November 1993, has now alleged the president also raped her during that same incident. The report, produced after interviews with Democratic committee staffers "over several weeks", says Keul met Trump when she was 24 at a press event for a pageant at New York's Plaza Hotel, which he owned at the time.According to the report, Trump allegedly promised to arrange a visa for her and said he could ensure she got accepted into New York University. "I will take care of you," he told her, the claims state.The fresh rape allegations against the POTUS landed a week before the US midterm elections. Trump's handling of the Epstein files, along with inflation and rising energy prices caused by his war with Iran, have emerged as key points in the upcoming elections.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-midterms-2026-dead-for-years-paedophile-jeffrey-epstein-finds-mention-in-over-500-campaign-ads-texas-alone-spent-10-million-1792839624663">US Midterms 2026: Dead for years, paedophile Jeffrey Epstein finds mention in over 500 campaign ads; Texas alone spent $10 million</a><h2>Don's best friend, Epstein</h2>After Trump stepped away, Keul said she was approached by convicted sex trafficker Epstein, who described himself as "Don's best friend", and invited her to a party at Mar-a-Lago. "We organise many parties with Don," Epstein apparently told her.Notably, Trump claims he ended his friendship with Epstein long before there were suspicions of criminal wrongdoing and has repeatedly described him as a "creep" whom he kicked out of his Mar-a-Lago club.<h2>The alleged assault</h2>The report claims a representative for Trump later invited Keul to meet the future president upstairs at the Plaza Hotel. "Upon entering, Trump reportedly grabbed Keul from behind and forcibly raped her; in the process, tearing her dress and causing bleeding and bruising on multiple parts of her body," the report claimed. “Keul described the rape as 'brutal'.”Following the alleged assault, Keul claimed Trump "sat her on the edge of the bed, repeated his promises to arrange for a visa and NYU admission, and made her promise she would keep quiet, saying, '[T]he show must go on.'"In her original claims in October 2024, Keul accused Trump of groping her at the Plaza Hotel in 1993 but said things did not go further. "He kissed me on the lips and on the neck. He tried to lift my dress. He was grabbing and touching my body everywhere he could," she told The Daily Mail. "I tried everything I could. Finally, I said 'let's talk first' or something like that, then he slowed down,' she said at the time.The 6 ft 1 in ex-model suggested it was her height that "saved her" from the alleged attack escalating. The newspaper also reported that a long-time friend said Keul "first told him her story of Trump's unwanted sexual advances 20 years ago, and that her telling of the incident has not changed in the intervening years."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/100-victory-claims-200-days-of-war-is-trump-s-iran-gamble-turning-into-a-midterm-nightmare-us-midterms-2026-1790843647554">100 victory claims, 200+ days of war: Is Trump's Iran gamble turning into a midterm nightmare?</a><h2>White House response</h2>The White House has denied the report's allegations. A spokesperson, as per The Telegraph, described the claims as "a desperate attempt by crazed Democrats to distract Americans from the surging Republican momentum driven by President Trump's historic achievements."At the time of the original claims, Karoline Leavitt, then press secretary to Trump, described the allegations as "fake." In a statement to Time magazine regarding the new allegations, a spokesman said Trump had been "fully exonerated of anything related to Epstein."<h2>Keul not the only person to accuse Trump of rape</h2>The newly released report summarises the accounts of four other women who have accused Trump of rape or sexual assault. It also claims that Trump, Epstein and others used the pageant at the Plaza Hotel as a "'hunting ground' to prey on vulnerable young women and girls.""Five women have directly accused Trump of rape or sexual assault in Epstein's company or presence; others have indicated that Epstein or Maxwell attempted to traffic them to Trump," Jamie Raskin, the committee's ranking member, said in a statement alongside the release of the report. "Trump's Justice Department appears to be covering up these crimes to protect the President," he added. &nbsp;

Beatrice Keul, a former model and Miss Switzerland, has accused Donald Trump of rape in a Democratic Party report released Monday, adding to her earlier groping claims from 1993. The White House dismissed the claims as "a desperate attempt by crazed Democrats."

A former model and Miss Switzerland has accused US President Donald Trump of rape in a report released Monday (Oct 26) by House Democrats investigating the president's alleged ties to disgraced financier and paedophile Jeffrey Epstein's crimes. Beatrice Keul, who before the 2024 election claimed Trump had groped her in November 1993, has now alleged the president also raped her during that same incident. The report, produced after interviews with Democratic committee staffers "over several weeks", says Keul met Trump when she was 24 at a press event for a pageant at New York's Plaza Hotel, which he owned at the time. According to the report, Trump allegedly promised to arrange a visa for her and said he could ensure she got accepted into New York University. "I will take care of you," he told her, the claims state. The fresh rape allegations against the POTUS landed a week before the US midterm elections. Trump's handling of the Epstein files, along with inflation and rising energy prices caused by his war with Iran, have emerged as key points in the upcoming elections. Also read | US Midterms 2026: Dead for years, paedophile Jeffrey Epstein finds mention in over 500 campaign ads; Texas alone spent $10 million Don's best friend, Epstein After Trump stepped away, Keul said she was approached by convicted sex trafficker Epstein, who described himself as "Don's best friend", and invited her to a party at Mar-a-Lago. "We organise many parties with Don," Epstein apparently told her. Notably, Trump claims he ended his friendship with Epstein long before there were suspicions of criminal wrongdoing and has repeatedly described him as a "creep" whom he kicked out of his Mar-a-Lago club. The alleged assault The report claims a representative for Trump later invited Keul to meet the future president upstairs at the Plaza Hotel. "Upon entering, Trump reportedly grabbed Keul from behind and forcibly raped her; in the process, tearing her dress and causing bleeding and bruising on multiple parts of her body," the report claimed. “Keul described the rape as 'brutal'.” Following the alleged assault, Keul claimed Trump "sat her on the edge of the bed, repeated his promises to arrange for a visa and NYU admission, and made her promise she would keep quiet, saying, '[T]he show must go on.'" In her original claims in October 2024, Keul accused Trump of groping her at the Plaza Hotel in 1993 but said things did not go further. "He kissed me on the lips and on the neck. He tried to lift my dress. He was grabbing and touching my body everywhere he could," she told The Daily Mail. "I tried everything I could. Finally, I said 'let's talk first' or something like that, then he slowed down,' she said at the time. The 6 ft 1 in ex-model suggested it was her height that "saved her" from the alleged attack escalating. The newspaper also reported that a long-time friend said Keul "first told him her story of Trump's unwanted sexual advances 20 years ago, and that her telling of the incident has not changed in the intervening years." Also read | 100 victory claims, 200+ days of war: Is Trump's Iran gamble turning into a midterm nightmare? White House response The White House has denied the report's allegations. A spokesperson, as per The Telegraph, described the claims as "a desperate attempt by crazed Democrats to distract Americans from the surging Republican momentum driven by President Trump's historic achievements." At the time of the original claims, Karoline Leavitt, then press secretary to Trump, described the allegations as "fake." In a statement to Time magazine regarding the new allegations, a spokesman said Trump had been "fully exonerated of anything related to Epstein." Keul not the only person to accuse Trump of rape The newly released report summarises the accounts of four other women who have accused Trump of rape or sexual assault. It also claims that Trump, Epstein and others used the pageant at the Plaza Hotel as a "'hunting ground' to prey on vulnerable young women and girls." "Five women have directly accused Trump of rape or sexual assault in Epstein's company or presence; others have indicated that Epstein or Maxwell attempted to traffic them to Trump," Jamie Raskin, the committee's ranking member, said in a statement alongside the release of the report. "Trump's Justice Department appears to be covering up these crimes to protect the President," he added.

Beatrice Keul, a former model and Miss Switzerland, has accused Donald Trump of rape in a Democratic Party report released Monday, adding to her earlier groping claims from 1993. The White House dismissed the claims as "a desperate attempt by crazed Democrats."

Trump accused of 'brutal' rape by ex-Miss Switzerland; Beatrice Keul alleges 'Don's best friend' Epstein facilitated assault in 1993

House Judiciary Committee Democrats on Monday (Oct 26) released an unsigned staff report laying out what they call "the case against Donald Trump emerging in the Epstein Files and DOJ's desperate efforts to cover it up," and are now calling for an independent special counsel to investigate the president, Attorney General Todd Blanche's alleged conflicts of interest, and the Justice Department's reluctance to share evidence with state and foreign law enforcement."The women who survived Epstein deserve to be heard," the top Democrat on the House Judiciary Committee, Rep. Jamie Raskin, D-Md., said in a statement. "Congress must have the complete files required by law, and an independent special counsel must investigate Epstein's co-conspirators and DOJ's cover-up and ensure that state and foreign prosecutors have the evidence they need to pursue justice."The more than 50-page report alleges that Trump was "an active participant in Jeffrey Epstein's abuse of young women in the mid-to-late 1990s." It also contains at least one entirely new allegation against the president, though it provides no direct evidence other than the woman's own conversations with Judiciary Committee staff.Notably, for years, Trump has denied that he engaged in any sexual misconduct with any woman connected to Epstein and has said he knew nothing about Epstein's crimes. He even claimed to have kicked out "creep" Epstein from his Mar-a-Lago resort in 2203.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/don-s-best-friend-epstein-trump-accused-of-rape-by-ex-miss-switzerland-beatrice-keul-alleges-trump-raped-her-in-1993-democrats-report-1793069124230">Trump accused of 'brutal' rape by ex-Miss Switzerland; Beatrice Keul alleges 'Don's best friend' Epstein facilitated assault in 1993</a><h2>What the report claims</h2>Talking to MS Now, a Democratic Judiciary Committee member said that the report draws on publicly available accounts as well as conversations with survivors.The report repeats several other longstanding allegations against Trump. It also compares Trump's statements about Epstein in recent years to documentary evidence, including emails, deposition transcripts, Trump's prior public statements, and Trump's drawings and signatures. Among the discrepancies highlighted are inconsistencies with what Trump has said about his awareness of Epstein's crimes.The report suggests DOJ officials, including the attorney general, are "doing everything they can to keep the American people in the dark" about Trump's alleged participation in Epstein's abuse of young women."Attorney General Blanche may have engaged in criminal obstruction of justice while acting on a mission to protect Trump," the report alleges.It lays out how Blanche's meeting with Ghislaine Maxwell "potentially constituted witness tampering and obstruction of an official proceeding.""Blanche's apparent instructions not to discuss a specific Epstein victim, and how that victim could implicate Donald Trump, could easily run afoul of 18 U.S.C. § 1512, which forbids hindering or delaying the communication of information relating to the potential commission of a federal offense to a law enforcement officer, as well as corruptly influencing the testimony of any person in an official proceeding — such as a congressional interview and investigation," Democrats write in the report.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-midterms-2026-dead-for-years-paedophile-jeffrey-epstein-finds-mention-in-over-500-campaign-ads-texas-alone-spent-10-million-1792839624663">US Midterms 2026: Dead for years, paedophile Jeffrey Epstein finds mention in over 500 campaign ads; Texas alone spent $10 million</a><h2>The DOJ response</h2>A Justice Department spokesperson said the report was "nothing more than a last-ditch effort by House Judiciary Democrats to mislead the public."The spokesperson said the DOJ complied with the Epstein Files Transparency Act and made nearly 3 million documents related to Epstein available to the public. "The Department also freely offered members of Congress the opportunity to view the files unredacted. All these files were part of FBI investigations that spanned decades and these claims were investigated by agents at the time," the spokesperson said."While we cannot talk about the existence of any ongoing investigations, the Trump Administration is the only administration to prosecute Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell and make any of these documents available to the public," the spokesperson added.

House Judiciary Democrats have released an unsigned staff report alleging Trump was "an active participant in Jeffrey Epstein's abuse of young women" and calling for an independent special counsel to investigate the president and Attorney General Todd Blanche. 

House Judiciary Committee Democrats on Monday (Oct 26) released an unsigned staff report laying out what they call "the case against Donald Trump emerging in the Epstein Files and DOJ's desperate efforts to cover it up," and are now calling for an independent special counsel to investigate the president, Attorney General Todd Blanche's alleged conflicts of interest, and the Justice Department's reluctance to share evidence with state and foreign law enforcement. "The women who survived Epstein deserve to be heard," the top Democrat on the House Judiciary Committee, Rep. Jamie Raskin, D-Md., said in a statement. "Congress must have the complete files required by law, and an independent special counsel must investigate Epstein's co-conspirators and DOJ's cover-up and ensure that state and foreign prosecutors have the evidence they need to pursue justice." The more than 50-page report alleges that Trump was "an active participant in Jeffrey Epstein's abuse of young women in the mid-to-late 1990s." It also contains at least one entirely new allegation against the president, though it provides no direct evidence other than the woman's own conversations with Judiciary Committee staff. Notably, for years, Trump has denied that he engaged in any sexual misconduct with any woman connected to Epstein and has said he knew nothing about Epstein's crimes. He even claimed to have kicked out "creep" Epstein from his Mar-a-Lago resort in 2203. Also read | Trump accused of 'brutal' rape by ex-Miss Switzerland; Beatrice Keul alleges 'Don's best friend' Epstein facilitated assault in 1993 What the report claims Talking to MS Now, a Democratic Judiciary Committee member said that the report draws on publicly available accounts as well as conversations with survivors. The report repeats several other longstanding allegations against Trump. It also compares Trump's statements about Epstein in recent years to documentary evidence, including emails, deposition transcripts, Trump's prior public statements, and Trump's drawings and signatures. Among the discrepancies highlighted are inconsistencies with what Trump has said about his awareness of Epstein's crimes. The report suggests DOJ officials, including the attorney general, are "doing everything they can to keep the American people in the dark" about Trump's alleged participation in Epstein's abuse of young women. "Attorney General Blanche may have engaged in criminal obstruction of justice while acting on a mission to protect Trump," the report alleges. It lays out how Blanche's meeting with Ghislaine Maxwell "potentially constituted witness tampering and obstruction of an official proceeding." "Blanche's apparent instructions not to discuss a specific Epstein victim, and how that victim could implicate Donald Trump, could easily run afoul of 18 U.S.C. § 1512, which forbids hindering or delaying the communication of information relating to the potential commission of a federal offense to a law enforcement officer, as well as corruptly influencing the testimony of any person in an official proceeding — such as a congressional interview and investigation," Democrats write in the report. Also read | US Midterms 2026: Dead for years, paedophile Jeffrey Epstein finds mention in over 500 campaign ads; Texas alone spent $10 million The DOJ response A Justice Department spokesperson said the report was "nothing more than a last-ditch effort by House Judiciary Democrats to mislead the public." The spokesperson said the DOJ complied with the Epstein Files Transparency Act and made nearly 3 million documents related to Epstein available to the public. "The Department also freely offered members of Congress the opportunity to view the files unredacted. All these files were part of FBI investigations that spanned decades and these claims were investigated by agents at the time," the spokesperson said. "While we cannot talk about the existence of any ongoing investigations, the Trump Administration is the only administration to prosecute Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell and make any of these documents available to the public," the spokesperson added.

House Judiciary Democrats have released an unsigned staff report alleging Trump was "an active participant in Jeffrey Epstein's abuse of young women" and calling for an independent special counsel to investigate the president and Attorney General Todd Blanche.&nbsp;

Democrats allege 'desperate efforts to cover up' Trump's involvement in Jeffrey Epstein sex crimes, release 50-page report

As Israelis vote today, all opinion polls are pointing at a fractured mandate, opening an avenue for coalition talks. In Israel's history, no single party has ever won an outright 61-seat majority in 120 seats Parliament. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is primarily up against Gadi Eisenkot, a retired IDF Chief of Staff and leader of the new Yashar (or Yesher) party. Even as Eisenkot has repeatedly ruled out any partnership with Netanyahu during the campaign trail, US President Donald Trump may be the external factor pushing for a national unity structure. This becomes more clear as Netanyahu has privately promised US and European officials that if he forms a unity government with Eisenkot, he will abandon his far-right partners, such as National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir. Trump favours a stable Israeli government keeping in mind his Iran strategies. As the coalition mathematics and talks go on behind the scenes, Israel's anti-defection laws plays a pivotal role.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-election-2026-polling-stations-ballot-slips-preparations-1793015100943">Israel elections 2026: How the country is gearing up for a crucial vote</a><h2>What are Israel's anti-defection laws?</h2>Israel's anti-defection laws are a set of legal restrictions introduced in 1991 to deter political opportunism, "party hopping," and horse-trading. According to the laws, if an individual Members of Knesset (MK) defects from their party or votes against their party's line to topple a government without resigning their seat, they are legally barred from being appointed as ministers or deputy ministers for the entire remaining duration of that Knesset's term. They are also prohibited from joining any existing parliamentary faction during the active Knesset term. Moreover, they cannot run in the next election on the candidate list of any party that was already represented in the current Knesset.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-election-2026-who-will-be-next-pm-will-netanyahu-survive-his-toughest-test-yet-explained-1792933514882">Israel election 2026: Who will be next PM — Will Netanyahu survive his toughest test</a>&nbsp;In present context, these laws will set the post-poll strategies for parties. Opposition leaders like Yisrael Beytenu chairman Avigdor Liberman have publicly floated a strategy to bypass Netanyahu by recruiting disgruntled MKs from Netanyahu's Likud party to cross the aisle and help form an alternative government. The law allows lawmakers to switch sides without penalty, only if they stage a collective breakaway consisting of at least one-third of their original party faction.&nbsp;&nbsp;However, smaller parties can be kingmakers. At a time of a fractured mandate, the final power will rest in the hands of smaller, niche parties. Mainstream leaders are studying anti-defection boundaries to understand how much leverage individual rogue MKs.<h2>Israel Elections</h2>Israel is holding a first parliamentary election today – the first nationwide vote since the Hamas attack on October 7, 2023 and subsequent Gaza war. Voting centers opened at 7:00 AM and will officially close at 10:00 PM local time. A clearer picture will emerge overnight, with the final official vote count expected by October 30 and formally certified results published by November 4. Voters cast their ballots for a national party list rather than individual candidates to fill the 120 seats in Israel's parliament. A party must secure at least 3.25% of the total national vote to enter parliament, which translates to a minimum of 4 seats.&nbsp;

Israel’s election is expected to produce a fractured mandate, setting the stage for coalition negotiations. Anti-defection laws could shape efforts to form an alternative government, as opposition leaders explore ways to win over lawmakers 

As Israelis vote today, all opinion polls are pointing at a fractured mandate, opening an avenue for coalition talks. In Israel's history, no single party has ever won an outright 61-seat majority in 120 seats Parliament. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is primarily up against Gadi Eisenkot, a retired IDF Chief of Staff and leader of the new Yashar (or Yesher) party. Even as Eisenkot has repeatedly ruled out any partnership with Netanyahu during the campaign trail, US President Donald Trump may be the external factor pushing for a national unity structure. This becomes more clear as Netanyahu has privately promised US and European officials that if he forms a unity government with Eisenkot, he will abandon his far-right partners, such as National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir. Trump favours a stable Israeli government keeping in mind his Iran strategies. As the coalition mathematics and talks go on behind the scenes, Israel's anti-defection laws plays a pivotal role. Also Read: Israel elections 2026: How the country is gearing up for a crucial vote What are Israel's anti-defection laws? Israel's anti-defection laws are a set of legal restrictions introduced in 1991 to deter political opportunism, "party hopping," and horse-trading. According to the laws, if an individual Members of Knesset (MK) defects from their party or votes against their party's line to topple a government without resigning their seat, they are legally barred from being appointed as ministers or deputy ministers for the entire remaining duration of that Knesset's term. They are also prohibited from joining any existing parliamentary faction during the active Knesset term. Moreover, they cannot run in the next election on the candidate list of any party that was already represented in the current Knesset. Also Read: Israel election 2026: Who will be next PM — Will Netanyahu survive his toughest test In present context, these laws will set the post-poll strategies for parties. Opposition leaders like Yisrael Beytenu chairman Avigdor Liberman have publicly floated a strategy to bypass Netanyahu by recruiting disgruntled MKs from Netanyahu's Likud party to cross the aisle and help form an alternative government. The law allows lawmakers to switch sides without penalty, only if they stage a collective breakaway consisting of at least one-third of their original party faction. However, smaller parties can be kingmakers. At a time of a fractured mandate, the final power will rest in the hands of smaller, niche parties. Mainstream leaders are studying anti-defection boundaries to understand how much leverage individual rogue MKs. Israel Elections Israel is holding a first parliamentary election today – the first nationwide vote since the Hamas attack on October 7, 2023 and subsequent Gaza war. Voting centers opened at 7:00 AM and will officially close at 10:00 PM local time. A clearer picture will emerge overnight, with the final official vote count expected by October 30 and formally certified results published by November 4. Voters cast their ballots for a national party list rather than individual candidates to fill the 120 seats in Israel's parliament. A party must secure at least 3.25% of the total national vote to enter parliament, which translates to a minimum of 4 seats.

Israel’s election is expected to produce a fractured mandate, setting the stage for coalition negotiations. Anti-defection laws could shape efforts to form an alternative government, as opposition leaders explore ways to win over lawmakers&nbsp;

What are Israel’s anti-defection laws and how could they shape post-poll coalition strategy? WION Explains

Latest News Today Highlights: Five people, including four members of the same family, have been killed in a shooting at a family-owned hotel in Guwahati, with police investigating a suspected property dispute. In West Bengal, a man accused of raping and murdering a 17-year-old girl in Gaighata died in an exchange of fire with police, according to police sources.In the United States, a report by House Democrats has published fresh rape allegations against President Donald Trump by former model Beatrice Keul, claims. Separately, a federal appeals court declined to order California to set aside 20,000 ballots that the Trump administration alleges were cast by noncitizens. A judge also ruled that former federal prosecutor Maurene Comey's dismissal was unlawful.Meanwhile, a Russian strike damaged Kyiv's Southern Bridge, disrupting metro services. In New Jersey, one person was killed and six wounded in a shooting, with a suspect still being sought.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s Likud party asked election authorities on Tuesday to extend polling hours after he warned his supporters about Arab voters’ high turnout and the highest overall participation in decades.“We have submitted a request to extend voting hours,” the ruling Likud party said in a message on Telegram.Polling stations opened at 7 am and are scheduled to close at 10 pm.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-s-likud-party-asks-for-extending-voting-hours-amid-arab-turnout-surge-1793118332031">Click to read full story</a>&nbsp;

Cyclonic storm Arnab continued to move towards the Andhra Pradesh coast, bringing heavy rain and strong winds to parts of the state. Authorities have ordered nearly 100,000 people to evacuate their homes in Andhra Pradesh and Odisha as preparations intensify ahead of the cyclone’s expected landfall in the early hours of Wednesday.According to the India Meteorological Department’s (IMD) latest bulletin issued late Tuesday, cyclonic storm “Arnab” was moving at 18 kmph over the west-central Bay of Bengal. It was located about 90 km southeast of Kakinada and 170 km south-southwest of Visakhapatnam.

Cyclone Arnab: Landfall likely between 2 am and 4 am in Andhra Pradesh on Wednesday, flights cancelled, thousands evacuated

Yemen's Houthi rebels have claimed an attack on Saudi Arabia's Defence Ministry in Riyadh and its biggest oil refinery, Ras Tanura. AFP reported that the blast shook the capital of Saudi Arabia, and the maritime fire agency Vanguard said a fire was reported in the Ras Tanura area in the early hours of Tuesday, local time. The attack is being reported as Saudi Defence Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman, along with Pakistani and Turkish officials, just completed four-way regional security talks."Our armed forces targeted the Ministry of Defence in the enemy Saudi capital, Riyadh, with a ballistic missile, and the hit was direct," Houthi military spokesman Yahya Saree said. The Houthi military spokesperson also claimed that the Houthis "were able to target the Ras Tanura refinery in the Eastern Province with a ballistic missile", adding the strike caused "massive fires".

Voter turnout in Israel’s legislative elections reached 31.5 per cent by noon, the highest level recorded at that stage of polling since 1973, when the country held its first election after the Yom Kippur War. The figure was up from 28.4 per cent at the same time during the 2022 election.The election comes nearly three years after the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led attack and amid Israel’s ongoing offensive in Gaza and the conflict with Iran, triggered by joint US-Israeli strikes on February 28, 2026.The vote is also a crucial test for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Israel’s longest-serving leader, who could face imprisonment if convicted in the ongoing corruption cases against him.

Uganda has arrested a man accused of killing and eating 38 people between 2010 and 2025. Uganda's Chief of Defence Forces, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, announced in an X post on Monday that the country's worst serial killer and cannibal had finally been arrested. Identified as Mujurizi Moses, the man carried out the heinous crimes in Masaka, Ibanda and Kazo districts."I am glad to inform our fellow citizens that the security forces have arrested the evil Mujurizi Moses. The worst serial killer and cannibal in Uganda's history," General Kainerugaba wrote. “He killed and ate 38 people between 2010 and 2025 in Masaka, Ibanda and Kazo. We will try him in public and definitely execute him.”

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju slammed the Congress party on Tuesday after the Indian Army debunked videos shared by a leader of the main opposition party claiming that China has taken control of parts of Arunachal Pradesh.Rijiju accused the Congress of sharing a fabricated video featuring Lieutenant General Girish Kalia and demanded an apology for allegedly tarnishing the Army’s image.In a post on X, Rijiju demanded an apology from the opposition party, writing, “Congress Party must apologize to the nation for spreading fake AI video to tarnish the image of Indian Army.”“This is a treacherous act and is on par with the vile deeds of our enemies. The Congress Party is running a despicable campaign on behalf of India’s enemies,” the Union minister added.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/treacherous-act-apologise-to-nation-kiren-rijiju-tells-congress-as-army-debunks-fake-videos-denies-claims-of-chinese-intrusion-1793102062622">Click to read full story</a> &nbsp;

‘Treacherous act, apologise to nation’: Kiren Rijiju tells Congress as Army debunks fake videos, denies claims of Chinese intrusion

Union Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari on Tuesday said that the backlash against petrol blended with 20% ethanol (E20) was a “paid campaign”. Gadkari made the remark a day after the central government notified changes to motor vehicle rules allowing flex-fuel vehicles to run on blends containing up to 100% ethanol.Speaking at an event organised by industry body CII, Gadkari said the opposition to E20 had intensified about three months ago but had since subsided.“Three months ago, huge noise (khub halla) was made against the E20 (20 per cent ethanol-blended petrol) fuel; now rage against E20 fuel is over...It was a paid campaign,” Gadkari said.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/backlash-against-e20-was-a-paid-campaign-says-nitin-gadkari-as-govt-approves-e100-fuel-1793097541672">Click to read full story</a>&nbsp;

‘Backlash against E20 was a paid campaign,’ says Nitin Gadkari as govt approves E100 fuel

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge on Tuesday accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah of attempting to suppress the people's movement over alleged ‘Vote Chori’.&nbsp; He also questioned why they were protecting Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar. In a post on X, Kharge wrote, “As more skeletons tumble out of the Election Commission’s cupboard, exposing Vote Chori, Modi-Shah are trying hard to suppress the people's movement! Why are they protecting CEC Gyanesh Kumar?”

'They are trying to suppress people's movement”: Mallikarjun Kharge targets Centre over ‘Vote Chori’

The Communist Party of India (CPI) and Communist Party of India (Marxist) on Tuesday held a human chain protest in New Delhi, demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar over alleged irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls and calling for the cancellation of the exercise. The protest was organised as part of the ongoing agitation.&nbsp;

"Gyanesh Kumar should resign”: Left parties holds human chain protest in Delhi, demands cancellation of SIR

Finland's president said Tuesday that he and Norway's prime minister had a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin about efforts to end the war in Ukraine, describing the&nbsp;conversation as "frank and substantive".

Norway, Finland leaders say 'frank and substantive' talk held with Putin

Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian met with Qatar's Emir Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani in Moscow on the sidelines of an energy forum, Iranian state media reported.

Iran president, Qatar ruler meet in Moscow: Iranian state media

The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has summoned Uttarakhand journalist Ashutosh Negi, the main petitioner in the Ankita Bhandari murder case, for questioning, according to CBI sources. The development comes amid a controversy over the alleged involvement of a “VIP” in the murder case, which has escalated following the appointment of former BJP Uttarakhand in-charge Dushyant Gautam as the Governor of Sikkim. Earlier this month, a four-member CBI team reached actress Urmila Sanawar’s residence in Saharanpur, Uttar Pradesh, in connection with the investigation into the murder of Ankita Bhandari, a receptionist at a resort near Rishikesh in Uttarakhand, who was killed in September 2022.

Ankita Bhandari murder case: CBI summons Uttarakhand journalist Ashutosh Negi for questioning

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor on Tuesday described the 12th BRICS Parliamentary Forum as a successful event, saying participating countries had amicably resolved differences over the joint declaration, while defending the Congress's planned November 1 rally at Ramlila Maidan in Delhi. &nbsp;Speaking to reporters, Tharoor said parliamentarians from BRICS member countries had come together to discuss key issues and that the event had concluded on a positive note. "There was some discussion about the joint declaration. I know that one country in particular wanted something more that could not be accommodated by the others. In the end, everything was settled amicably, and India really handed over the chair to China," he said.

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor says party “cannot remain silent” over alleged denial of voters’ rights

Cyclone Arnab is projected to cross the Andhra Pradesh coast between Bapatla and Visakhapatnam, near Yanam, as a very severe cyclonic storm, with wind speeds reaching 125–135 kmph and gusts up to 150 kmph, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) said&nbsp;

Cyclone 'Arnab' projected to cross Andhra Pradesh coast as 'very severe' cyclonic storm, IMD warns of winds up to 135 kmph

Two men Nouman Essghir, 24 and Mohmed Abdulkarim, 24 have been charged over last month's incident at RAF Fairford. They have been charged with one offence of entering a prohibited place for a purpose prejudicial to the UK.

Two men charged under UK National Security Act after rearrest in RAF Fairford incident

A team from the Indian Naval Academy has developed a pair of autonomous unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) designed for long-range maritime Search and Rescue (SAR) operations. The system has two drones that work together.&nbsp;

Indian Naval Academy unveil twin drone system for maritime search and rescue

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Tuesday said that 12 people had been injured during a Russian strike on a university campus. Zelenskyy claimed that Russia had fired as many as 16 ballistic missiles in it attack overnight. &nbsp;“The number of people injured in the Russian strike on a university campus and the surrounding area yesterday evening has risen to 12. Five of them are students and university staff. While emergency services were helping people and dealing with the aftermath of the first strike, the Russians used ballistic missiles again. In total, 16 ballistic missiles were launched overnight. More than 280 drones as well. Tragically, there have been casualties and hits in Kyiv, including on the South Bridge. A serious escalation in Russia’s operation against our logistics," he said.&nbsp;

"Pressure on Russia needed to change situation":Zelenskyy calls for support after missile strike in Kyiv injures 12

Tensions between Punjab's ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and the opposition Congress reached a boiling point on Tuesday when Congress MLAs were blocked from entering the Legislative Assembly premises. Congress leaders, including Sukhpal Singh Khaira, Partap Singh Bajwa and Pargat Singh, were reportedly not allowed to enter the Assembly. An altercation broke out between AAP MLA Jasvir Singh Raja Gill and senior Congress leaders, including Leader of Opposition Partap Singh Bajwa.

Clash between AAP and Congress MLAs at Punjab Vidhan Sabha; Congress leaders stopped at entry

Jordan says killed more than 20 IS jihadists in strikes on Syria

Jordan says killed more than 20 IS jihadists in strikes on Syria

Yashar Party chairman and main rival of Israel's incumbent PM Benjamin Netanyahu, Gadi Eisenkot kicked off election day on Tuesday with a last minute campaign at Kibbutz Nir Oz, one of the communities hardest hit by the Hamas-led October 7, 2023, attack. Eisenkot walked alongside former hostage Gadi Mozes towards his polling booth before leaving to cast his own vote elsewhere.&nbsp; &nbsp;“I am proud and moved to begin this day with Gadi Mozes, a symbol of the Israeli spirit and strength, of Israelis’ commitment to one another and their commitment to the state. I pledge to do everything I can to ensure that we are worthy of the price you paid, the price the kibbutz paid and the price we all paid, and to bring healing and repair to all citizens of Israel,” Eisenkot told reporters.

Israel votes: Eisenkot campaigns in Kibutz Nir Oz, site of October 7 massacre; pledges to bring healing

The Supreme Court has deferred hearing on a batch of petitions challenging the functioning of the Election Commission (EC), including allegations that Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar took unilateral decisions on matters that required unanimous approval, particularly in connection with the special intensive revision (SIR) of electoral rolls.

SIR row: Supreme Court defers hearing, grants petitioner 10 days to reply to EC's counter-affidavit

Israelis are voting in a pivotal Knesset election, with 7.3 million eligible voters casting ballots to decide the country’s next government. President Isaac Herzog, Itamar Ben-Gvir and Yair Golan were among those who voted, while voters expressed hopes for change and a better future. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-election-polling-begins-as-7-3-million-voters-head-to-ballot-box-1793088845440">READ MORE</a>

&lt;blockquote class="twitter-tweet"&gt;&lt;p lang="en" dir="ltr"&gt;#WATCH | Bhubaneswar, Odisha: Intense rainfall lashes the state capital under heavily overcast skies as cyclonic storm Arnab advances over the west-central Bay of Bengal. https://t.co/IEUoJuYWzE&lt;/p&gt;&amp;mdash; ANI (@ANI) &lt;a href="https://x.com/ANI/status/2114989013816000537?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;October 27, 2026&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/blockquote&gt; &lt;script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"&gt;&lt;/script&gt;

Cyclone ‘Arnab’: IMD raises wind forecast to 150 kmph gusts; landfall near Yanam; 61 trains cancelled

Ranbir Kapoor's Ramayana: The Rise of Legend is set to hit theatres on November 5, ahead of the Diwali weekend. Ahead of its release, the film is already facing intense scrutiny over its songs, composed by Oscar-winner AR Rahman in collaboration with Hans Zimmer.Ramayana has released a few songs so far, including the Shiva Tandav track and the wedding number 'Mangal Rang', which many users have said felt more like a qawwali. Now, as the backlash grow, Rahman has reacted to the criticism.In an interview with Hindustan Times, the singer-composer said, “We do so much work, filtration, ideation, and iteration that there’s no energy left to look at feedback! We just put it out because it’s been tried and tested so much. My son keeps telling me, ‘This is what they said yesterday, now they’re apologising…’ I say fine, I’ve done my work sincerely and hope people celebrate it.”<figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn3.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20260105/image-1767608305960.png?rect=(0,0,1200,900)&amp;imwidth=800&amp;imheight=600&amp;format=webp&amp;quality=medium" alt="AR Rahman breaks silence on backlash over Ramayana songs: 'No energy left to look at feedback!'"></figure><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/ar-rahman-breaks-silence-on-backlash-over-ramayana-songs-no-energy-left-to-look-at-feedback-1793082674993">Read more</a>

AR Rahman breaks silence on backlash over Ramayana songs: 'No energy left to look at feedback!

Anthropic's IPO prospectus shows just how scared the bosses are of artificial intelligence themselves. The company is set to have the biggest ever initial public offering on Wall Street, with valuation expected to touch $2 trillion. But Anthropic has openly admitted that AI can kill all of humanity in the future if it is not handled responsibly. A total of 335 pages list multiple things about AI, including how one day it can become a “global security threat.”The biggest red flag in the prospectus states: "Sufficiently advanced AI systems could, if not developed, deployed, and operated with appropriate safeguards, oversight, and security measures, pose catastrophic or existential risks to humanity." This line echoes the views of several other experts who have openly admitted that things might go haywire and against humanity with AI in the future.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/trick-or-treat-anthropic-s-ipo-sales-pitch-is-the-perfect-halloween-scare-for-ai-enthusiasts-1793079462575">Read more</a>

The Indian Army is accelerating its push towards technology-driven warfare, with Western Command launching MECH TECH Seminar 2.0, an initiative aimed at making existing military platforms smarter, more lethal and more survivable. The initiative, themed “Transforming Existing Platforms for Future Combat,” was unveiled by Western Army Commander Lieutenant General Pushpendra Singh.<h2>Giving Existing Platforms a Decisive Edge</h2>Highlighting the changing nature of warfare, Lt Gen Singh said drones, artificial intelligence, precision weapons and emerging technologies are transforming modern battlefields. However, military modernisation must also focus on enhancing the capabilities of equipment already in service.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/defence-pulse/indian-army-to-make-its-combat-platforms-smarter-deadlier-and-future-ready-1793079328024">Read more</a>

Indian Army to make its combat platforms smarter, deadlier and future-ready

A birthkeeper faces potential criminal charges in Australia for allegedly grooming women to fear the hospital and choose freebirth. Emily Lal is in court for the death of Stacey Warnecke in September 2025, who suffered a postpartum haemorrhage after giving birth at home. Lal was paid $6,000 to support Stacey throughout the pregnancy.“Ms Lal saw her role as to groom her clients into being strong enough to resist the temptation to seek medical help during labour, to seek pain relief during labour, to go to hospital during labour,” Rachel Ellyard, counsel assisting the coroner, said in a statement on Monday (October 26).Lal claims that Warnecke hired her to be there as a supportive friend, and the money paid was primarily for her time, and no kind of medical advice was ever given. Ellyard cited WhatsApp messages in court which directly contradicted this claim. The messages were from a group chat Lal managed for women who were choosing freebirth.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/birthkeeper-accused-of-instilling-fear-of-hospitals-in-pregnant-women-1793085547095">Read more</a>

India on Monday (Oct 26) renewed its push for comprehensive United Nations Security Council reform, telling the world body that the veto held by the five permanent members must not be reduced to a tool of narrow political expediency. Delivering India's statement, the country's Permanent Representative to the UN, Parvathaneni Harish, stressed that the veto carries an immense burden of responsibility that requires restraint, especially on matters of global security."India has always maintained that the veto, which is right now a prerogative only of the five permanent members of the UN Security Council, is a responsibility that must be exercised with great restraint, especially on matters bearing upon the maintenance of international peace and security. It should not be an instrument of narrow political expediency," Parvathaneni said.<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-renews-unsc-reform-push-slams-disproportionate-veto-use-says-power-must-not-be-an-instrument-of-narrow-political-expediency-1793082774993">Read more</a>

China said Tuesday that "hurting the feelings" of the country's people will meet "unanimous rejection" after football star Kylian Mbappe's comments about former leader Mao Zedong."We have seen the relevant reports. Words and actions that hurt the feelings of the Chinese people will naturally be met with unanimous rejection from all sectors of Chinese society," foreign ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun told a regular briefing.

China on Mbappe row: words that hurt Chinese feelings will meet 'rejection'

A deeply divided Israel headed to the polls on Tuesday for the first time since Hamas's October 7, 2023 attack, with voters delivering their verdict on veteran Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the country's rightward drift.Israelis are casting their ballots in the shadow of three years of multi-front regional wars triggered by October 7, with the trauma still fresh and questions over accountability and security central to the campaign.

Israel to give verdict on Netanyahu in pivotal election

Four senior National Conference leaders, Ali Mohammad Sagar, Mir Saifullah, Shameema Firdous and Altaf Kalo, took oath as ministers in Jammu and Kashmir's cabinet reshuffle, with Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha administering the oath at Lok Bhavan in Srinagar.&nbsp;The exercise follows the resignation of all five incumbent ministers, paving the way for Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and NC president Farooq Abdullah to restructure the Council of Ministers. The Congress opted out of joining the government, citing the Union Territory status, but will continue outside support until statehood is restored.

Omar Abdullah reshuffles J&K cabinet; four NC leaders take oath at Lok Bhavan

A US-brokered truce between Ukraine and Russia aimed at allowing humanitarian aid into the Russian-occupied city of Oleshky came into force early October 27, after being announced by US First Lady Melania Trump. Both sides said they would observe the ceasefire from 3 am local time, with Russia introducing a "regime of silence" in the Kherson sector. The city's population has dropped from about 24,000 before the 2022 invasion to around 2,000 today, with residents reported to be starving. Three-way peace talks between Washington, Moscow and Kyiv are set to resume in November.

US-brokered truce begins in Russian-occupied Ukrainian city of Oleshky

House Judiciary Democrats have released an unsigned staff report alleging Trump was "an active participant in Jeffrey Epstein's abuse of young women" and calling for an independent special counsel to investigate the president and Attorney General Todd Blanche.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/democrats-allege-desperate-efforts-to-cover-up-trump-s-involvement-in-jeffrey-epstein-sex-crimes-release-50-page-report-1793079539061">Read more here</a><figure class="image"><img src="https://cdn3.wionews.com/prod/wion/images/2026/20261027/image-1793079908111.png?rect=(0,0,1200,900)"></figure>

Security has been tightened around the Uttarakhand Legislative Assembly in Bhararisain, Gairsain, as a two-day session begins and the Congress prepares to gherao the premises over 14 public interest issues. The state Congress unit, led by Ganesh Godiyal, has accused the government of anti-people policies, corruption and unemployment. Barricades have been installed along approach routes, with police and PAC personnel deployed in strength. SP Parmod Kumar said strict action would be taken against anyone violating law and order.

Security tightened around Uttarakhand Assembly as Congress plans gherao over 14 issues

Jay-Z has been announced as the performer for the halftime show at Super Bowl LXI, scheduled for February 14, 2027, at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California. The rapper called the milestone "a dream come true," reflecting on his journey since his 1996 debut album "Reasonable Doubt".

Jay-Z announced as Super Bowl LXI halftime performer at SoFi Stadium

Israelis began casting ballots on October 27 as polling stations opened at 7 am local time, with 7.3 million people eligible to vote for the 26th Knesset.&nbsp;Final opinion surveys showed a tight race between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's bloc and opposition factions led by former IDF chief Gadi Eisenkot's Yashar party, though both are forecast to fall short of a ruling majority.&nbsp;

Israel votes in tight Knesset election as Netanyahu, Eisenkot blocs locked in close race

A report from Democrats on the Congressional Joint Economic Committee says Trump's oil and gas holdings rose in estimated value to between $22.5 million and $81.6 million, compared with a range of $12.6 million to $46 million at the end of 2025. &nbsp;

Trump's oil and gas holdings reportedly rise to $81.6 million

Latest News Today Live Updates: Stay connected to WION News for the latest updates from India and around the globe, including major developments in Iran, the Strait of Hormuz, global security, diplomacy, energy markets, and other breaking stories shaping the world.

Latest News Today Highlights: Five people, including four members of the same family, have been killed in a shooting at a family-owned hotel in Guwahati, with police investigating a suspected property dispute. In West Bengal, a man accused of raping and murdering a 17-year-old girl in Gaighata died in an exchange of fire with police, according to police sources. In the United States, a report by House Democrats has published fresh rape allegations against President Donald Trump by former model Beatrice Keul, claims. Separately, a federal appeals court declined to order California to set aside 20,000 ballots that the Trump administration alleges were cast by noncitizens. A judge also ruled that former federal prosecutor Maurene Comey's dismissal was unlawful. Meanwhile, a Russian strike damaged Kyiv's Southern Bridge, disrupting metro services. In New Jersey, one person was killed and six wounded in a shooting, with a suspect still being sought.

Latest News Today Highlights: Stay connected to WION News for the latest updates from India and around the globe, including major developments in Iran, the Strait of Hormuz, global security, diplomacy, energy markets, and other breaking stories shaping the world.

world news

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The money behind AI data centres: What Microsoft’s buyout plan reveals

UK charges two men over alleged plot to assist Iran in RAF Fairford incident

Israel polls: Highest early turnout since 1996; Netanyahu alleges election fraud

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Nepal on high alert as Cyclone Arnab approaches; heavy rain, floods expected

US midterms 2026: Talarico vs Paxton, El-Sayed vs Rogers and more – Key Senate, House battles and the numbers that could decide Congress

US midterms: Key Senate, House battles and numbers that could decide Congress

Israel election: Polling begins as 7.3 million voters head to ballot box

India renews UNSC reform push, slams 'disproportionate' veto use

Birthkeeper accused of instilling fear of hospitals in women. Who are they?

Anthropic's IPO sales pitch is the perfect Halloween scare for AI enthusiasts

Ex-Miss Switzerland accuses Trump of rape; 'Don's best friend' Epstein involved

Democrats release 50-page report on Trump's involvement in Epstein sex crimes

Israel elections 2026: How anti-defection laws could affect post-poll alliances

Highlights | Latest News Today: Trump faces fresh rape allegations, and more

One dead, six injured in Elizabeth, New Jersey mass shooting; suspect flees

Anthropic’s Claude AI bypassed paywall to access Georgia voter data