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Australia Enforces World-First Social Media Ban for Under-16s
Australia has begun enforcing a groundbreaking nationwide ban on social media access for children under 16, requiring major platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube to block underage users or face hefty fines up to A$49.5 million. The policy, effective from midnight, aims to shield young people from online harms such as cyberbullying and mental health issues, earning praise from parents and advocates while drawing criticism from tech companies over privacy and enforcement challenges, potentially setting a precedent for global regulations.
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Thailand-Cambodia Border Clashes Intensify with Civilian Casualties
Escalating border tensions between Thailand and Cambodia have led to artillery and rocket exchanges, resulting in nine civilian deaths and 20 injuries from Thai airstrikes, alongside three Thai soldiers killed and 29 wounded in clashes. Both nations accuse each other of violating a fragile ceasefire, displacing thousands and straining regional diplomacy, as U.S. President Trump signals potential intervention to halt the violence threatening Southeast Asian stability.
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U.S. Plans to Require Five-Year Social Media History for Tourists
The U.S. State Department is proposing a policy that would mandate foreign visitors, including those from visa-waiver countries like Britain and France, to disclose five years of social media history, phone numbers, and email addresses upon entry. Aimed at enhancing national security amid declining international tourism, the measure has sparked concerns over privacy and potential deterrence of travelers, exacerbating a projected drop in visitor spending for 2025.
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Ukrainian Sea Drone Strikes Russian Shadow Fleet Tanker
Ukrainian forces have targeted and struck the Dashan, a tanker in Russia’s “shadow fleet” used to evade sanctions on oil exports, using sea drones in the Black Sea. The attack underscores Kyiv’s innovative naval tactics amid ongoing conflict, disrupting Moscow’s energy revenues and highlighting the persistent maritime dimension of the war, with no immediate casualties reported.
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Bolivia Arrests Former President Luis Arce in Corruption Probe
Bolivia’s vice president announced the arrest of ex-President Luis Arce on corruption charges, marking a significant development in the nation’s political turmoil. The detention, part of a broader investigation into alleged graft during his tenure, has ignited debates over accountability and stability in the South American country, with supporters decrying it as politically motivated.
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Deadly Fire in Jakarta Claims Over 20 Lives
A devastating blaze engulfed a seven-story building in Indonesia’s capital Jakarta, killing at least 22 people and injuring dozens more as rescuers battled intense smoke and collapsing structures. Officials suspect electrical faults as the cause, prompting urgent calls for improved fire safety measures in one of Asia’s most populous urban centers amid rapid urbanization challenges.
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Sudanese Air Force Plane Crashes Near Port Sudan, Killing 10
An Ilyushin Il-76 military transport plane of the Sudanese Air Force crashed while approaching a base near Port Sudan, claiming the lives of all 10 on board. The incident, amid the country’s civil war, raises questions about aviation safety and maintenance in conflict zones, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in Sudan.
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Hamas Calls for International Pressure on Israel in Gaza Ceasefire Talks
Hamas has urged global powers to intensify pressure on Israel to open key border crossings, halt strikes, and boost aid inflows before advancing ceasefire negotiations in Gaza. Following a fragile truce, the demand highlights ongoing humanitarian woes in the war-ravaged enclave, with leaders emphasizing the need for sustained international mediation to prevent renewed hostilities.
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Trump Warns Colombian President Over Drug Trafficking Role
U.S. President Donald Trump has issued a stark warning to Colombian President Gustavo Petro, suggesting he could face consequences if his nation continues facilitating narcotics trade, amid rising tensions over American anti-drug operations. The exchange underscores strained bilateral relations and the U.S.’s aggressive stance on international counternarcotics efforts.
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British Artist Nnena Kalu Wins 2025 Turner Prize
British autistic artist Nnena Kalu has made history by winning the prestigious 2025 Turner Prize for her innovative wrapped fabric sculptures, becoming the first winner with a learning disability. The accolade celebrates diversity in the art world and highlights themes of neurodiversity, inspiring greater inclusion in creative fields.
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