2 firefighters die in South Korea as dry winds fuel dozens of wildfires

Rachel Reeves, the Chancellor, acknowledges the challenges she faces and the criticism she has received for unpopular decisions made by the government, but remains steadfast in her position. Despite opposition from within Labour ranks over welfare cuts, Reeves defends her actions, emphasizing the importance of supporting those on disability benefits to find work. The government's focus on addressing economic challenges and making tough decisions is evident, even as political tensions rise. Full Article

The president of Lithuania visited swampland near the Belarus border where a US Army vehicle carrying four soldiers went missing, sparking a frantic rescue effort hindered by deep mud and water. Despite skepticism, President Gitanas Nauseda expressed hope for a miracle, emphasizing the importance of allies working together in NATO. Efforts by Lithuanian and American rescue crews have been praised, with plans for specialized engineers to assist in extracting the submerged vehicle buried deep beneath...

In a new piece published in the British Medical Journal, academics argue that smartphones should be treated like cars, not cigarettes, with a focus on developing technology to mitigate harms rather than outright bans. Despite calls for phone bans in schools, research from Teacher Tapp shows that the majority of teachers prefer stricter regulations, with 78% supporting complete bans. A study by academics from the University of Birmingham, Harvard, and universities in Brazil and Sweden...

Vice President JD Vance arrived in Greenland with a group including his wife and national security adviser to tour a military base, amid Trump administration's push to take over the territory. The visit, met with protests and opposition, was originally planned to include cultural activities but was scaled back due to backlash. Trump's interest in Greenland's resources and strategic location has sparked controversy, with Greenlanders expressing dissatisfaction with Vance's presence and the administration's intentions. Full...

Security forces in Manipur apprehended four militants from different banned groups in Bishnupur, Imphal East, and Thoubal districts. The militants included a member of the Kangleipak Communist Party (PWG) and two from the KCP (Taibanganba) group, with 12 firearms seized during search operations in various districts. The arrests were part of the ongoing operation against militants in Manipur. Full Article

The Israeli military launched airstrikes in the southern outskirts of Beirut for the first time since a cease-fire in November, following rocket attacks from Lebanon, leading to fears of escalation. Hezbollah denied involvement, but tensions remain high after recent exchanges of fire and casualties in southern Lebanon. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed to enforce the cease-fire, while Lebanon's Prime Minister called the rocket fire irresponsible and a threat to stability, as the U.N. urged...