At least 44 people died in a major fire engulfing public housing apartments in Hong Kong's Tai Po district, with 279 unaccounted for. Three construction company executives were arrested on manslaughter suspicion, linked to flammable materials like mesh and plastic sheets enabling rapid fire spread. Over 800 firefighters battled the level-five blaze at Wang Fuk Court for 18+ hours. Resident Kiko Ma revealed windows were sealed during renovations, fire alarms turned off, and workers used fire escapes. "This was preventable," she stated. Chief Executive John Lee suspended legislative campaigning ahead of December 7 polls. Around 900 residents evacuated to shelters. US, UK, and Taiwan sent condolences.

The US Citizenship and Immigration Services announced an immediate, indefinite halt to all immigration requests for Afghan nationals following a shooting near the White House. Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan national, shot two National Guard troops before being detained. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem revealed Lakanwal was mass-paroled under Operation Allies Welcome on September 8, 2021, during the Biden Administration. President Trump called Afghanistan a "hell hole on earth" and labeled the attack "monstrous" and an "act of terror." The USCIS stated the suspension aims to review security and vetting protocols, prioritizing homeland protection. Afghanistan hasn't responded to the immigration department's move.

After intense diplomacy, hope for peace in Ukraine is rising, but uncertainty remains. US President Donald Trump said a deal is "very close," while President Zelensky noted "many prospects" for peace after Geneva talks. European leaders revised the US 28-point plan, reducing territorial demands and emphasizing security guarantees. Russia has responded cautiously, saying many points need expert discussion. Key issues like security assurances, territorial control, and Ukraine’s NATO ties are still unresolved. Diplomats continue discussions, with US envoy Steve Witkoff heading to Moscow next week. Experts caution that while progress exists, the path to a final agreement remains long and complex. (PC: BBC)

At least 36 people have died in a major fire that swept through apartment blocks in Hong Kong’s Tai Po district. Authorities said 279 people are still missing as rescue work continues. More than 800 firefighters are trying to control the level-five blaze at Wang Fuk Court. A baby and an elderly woman were rescued late at night, according to local reports. Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee said the fire is now coming under control. The government also honoured a 37-year-old firefighter who died while fighting the flames. Families are seeking help after losing contact with loved ones.

Paul Doyle, 54, a former Royal Marine, broke down in court as he admitted driving into crowds during Liverpool FC’s Premier League trophy parade on 26 May. In just seven minutes, Doyle’s Ford Galaxy Titanium struck more than 100 people, including children as young as six months. He pleaded guilty to dangerous driving, affray, 17 counts of attempted GBH with intent, nine counts of GBH with intent, and three counts of wounding with intent. Victims suffered life-changing injuries, with some thrown from prams. Prosecutors described his actions as “calculated violence.” Judge Andrew Menary KC remanded Doyle, warning a long prison sentence is inevitable. (PC: Reuters)

At least 13 people have been killed and 15 injured in a major fire engulfing apartment blocks in Hong Kong's Tai Po district. More than 700 firefighters are battling the blaze at Wang Fuk Court, which houses approximately 4,600 residents. The fire has been classified as level five, the most serious designation in Hong Kong. Dozens of fire trucks continue arriving at the scene. A 37-year-old firefighter died fighting the blaze, with the government paying tribute to him as "dedicated and gallant." Residents are desperately seeking help from local authorities after losing contact with relatives inside the buildings, according to a local councillor, as emergency response efforts continue.

Direct flights between Pakistan and Bangladesh will resume in December after several years, marking warming bilateral ties since Mohammad Yunus became chief adviser to Bangladesh's interim government. Mahan Airlines will operate three weekly flights between Dhaka and Karachi, while two Pakistani private airlines Fly Jinnah and AirSial received approval for direct flights. Bangladesh's High Commissioner confirmed simplified visa procedures, with approvals now issued within three to four days. Current bilateral trade stands at $700 million, potentially reaching $3 billion soon. Pakistan's military engagement has intensified, including visits by senior generals and the Navy chief seeking submarine berthing facilities at Pekua. This strategic realignment follows Sheikh Hasina's ouster, who maintained close India ties during her tenure. (PC: Shutterstock)

At least 13 people have died after a massive fire spread across several high-rise buildings at the Wang Fuk Court housing complex in Hong Kong’s Tai Po district. Officials said nine victims died at the scene, while four others died in hospital. A firefighter is among the dead. Many people are still trapped, and around 700 residents have been moved to temporary shelters. The fire began around 2:51pm and quickly spread through bamboo scaffolding used for renovation work. Several firefighters were injured while battling the flames. Thick smoke and strong flames continued into the night as rescue efforts carried on. (PC: Reuters)

A massive fire broke out Wednesday afternoon at Wang Fuk Court, a residential estate in Tai Po District, northern Hong Kong. Flames, ignited on bamboo scaffolding during renovation work, spread rapidly across multiple high‑rise towers — reaching a No. 5 alarm, the city’s most severe fire alert. Authorities confirmed at least 13 people were killed, including a firefighter; others remain unaccounted for as rescue efforts continue into the night. Thick black smoke and high flames engulfed seven of the estate’s eight blocks, forcing evacuations and closure of nearby roads. Emergency shelters have been opened for evacuees while officials investigate the cause and assess the full scale of the damage. 

Severe flooding in southern Thailand has claimed at least 33 lives, as rain-swollen waters have displaced nearly 45,000 people across nine provinces. In the hardest-hit city of Hat Yai, the ground floor of a major hospital was submerged, forcing authorities to airlift critically ill patients—around 50 in intensive care—via more than 20 helicopters. The Thai navy even deployed its only aircraft carrier, the Chakri Naruebet, to assist in relief operations. Meanwhile, rescue teams are using boats to transport food, generators, and medical supplies as rain continues.