US sanctions companies and individuals behind Southeast Asian scam centers | Crime News

Most U.S. adults believe personal choices significantly drive poverty and homelessness, with 68% noting an increase in poverty over the past 25 years, despite data showing a decrease in the poverty rate. The poll reveals support for removing homeless encampments, but highlights divisions on root causes, with 60% attributing poverty primarily to personal choices and nearly half citing unfair systems. Want More Context? 🔎

Alberta's Education Minister Demetrios Nicolaides announced revised standards prohibiting only books with visual depictions of sexual content in school libraries, following criticism of the previous guidelines. The new order removes specific grade-level restrictions and requires school boards to submit lists of materials to be removed by October 31, with implementation due by January 5, 2026. Want More Context? 🔎

Belgium's Foreign Ministry announced it cannot issue diplomatic passports to Palestinian officials for the upcoming UN General Assembly due to a 2014 Consular Code restriction, following a proposal from the Belgian-Palestinian Association. This decision comes amid U.S. visa denials for Palestinian representatives and criticism from Belgian officials regarding the U.S. stance, particularly as other nations move to recognize Palestinian statehood. Want More Context? 🔎

The UK government, represented by former foreign secretary David Lammy, stated that Israel is not committing genocide in Gaza but must take greater efforts to alleviate the humanitarian crisis. Meanwhile, a deadly shooting in Jerusalem resulted in six deaths, President Mahmoud Abbas condemned violence against civilians, and Spain imposed a ban on weapon shipments to Israel, labeled antisemitic by Israeli officials. Want More Context? 🔎

WA Governor Chris Dawson recently visited the Wheatbelt, emphasizing the importance of agriculture and community resilience during his tour, which included stops at Narrogin Primary School and the Newdegate Machinery Field Days. He highlighted the vital role of volunteers and the agricultural sector in supporting both local and global food security. Want More Context? 🔎

The New Orleans Archdiocese has proposed a $230 million settlement for survivors of clergy sexual abuse, following prior claims of a $179.2 million offer deemed insufficient by attorneys for the survivors. If accepted by two-thirds of the survivors by late October, payments could begin next year, with ongoing concerns about the archdiocese's accountability and the emotional toll on survivors. Want More Context? 🔎