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Greta Thunberg joins French students protesting school conditions

Greta Thunberg joined students in Saint-Denis as protests over teacher shortages, crowded classes and poor school buildings spread across France. Officials said about 200 schools were closed.

“Our future is being stolen from us and, as we have seen here, schools are not getting the investment they need.”
Greta ThunbergSwedish activist

Former Chongqing mayor Huang Qifan under investigation for corruption

China’s top party discipline body is investigating Huang Qifan, 74, over alleged serious violations of discipline and law. He was Chongqing’s mayor from 2010 to 2016.

Karnataka IPS officer S. Ravi seeks voluntary retirement

S. Ravi, an additional director general with Karnataka State Reserve Police, has applied for voluntary retirement, citing personal reasons, with six months left before retirement.

Former DOGE staff raise at least $500 million for private firms

At least two dozen former DOGE staff have moved into private businesses, and firms they co-founded or invested in have raised at least $500 million.

Morocco's PAM agrees coalition deal to form government

The centrist PAM and three other parties have agreed to form a coalition with a parliamentary majority. They will next propose ministers for a government led by Fatima Ezzahra El Mansouri.

Elon Musk gives more than $276 million to Republican groups since July

Musk has donated more than $276 million to Republican groups since July, making him the biggest known donor of the 2026 midterm elections. The largest share went to a group backing Republican Senate candidates.

Spain's government criticizes political dispute over overseas voters' suspension

Spain's Supreme Court kept a suspension affecting more than 163,000 overseas voters in place. The government is considering whether to challenge the decision in the Constitutional Court.

Spain's government condemned what it called political use of the voting suspension.

The Supreme Court has kept the suspension in place for people who gained Spanish nationality under the so-called grandchildren's law.

They must prove their ancestors fled Spain for political reasons to be included in the electoral register for the November 29 vote.

More than 163,000 people living abroad are affected.

Read full story →

Hungary removes anti-LGBTQ rules from child protection law

Hungary’s parliament voted to remove provisions restricting LGBTQ content from a 2021 law. Rights groups welcomed the change but said other discriminatory laws remain.

Orbán’s government barred legal recognition of transgender people’s gender identity.

Hungary passed the child protection law, including a ban on promoting homosexuality and gender transition to under-18s.

The European Court of Justice found that the 2021 law violated the very identity of the EU.

Parliament voted 139-51 to amend the law and remove anti-LGBTQ provisions.

Trump and Rubio weigh firing US ambassador to Greece amid misconduct allegations

Trump and Rubio are considering removing Kimberly Guilfoyle as US ambassador to Greece after reports of alleged misconduct. A State Department inspector general is looking into the claims.

Ambassador
Kimberly Guilfoyle
Post
US ambassador to Greece
Decision-makers
President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio
Potential decision timing
This week, after Monday’s Columbus Day holiday

Federal agents search Ilhan Omar’s Washington home

Agents searched the home of Democratic Rep. Ilhan Omar as part of an ongoing criminal investigation. Omar called the search political intimidation; no charges against her were announced.

Democratic critics of the search Republican supporters of the search

Purpose

Democratic leaders called it a politically motivated use of federal power against Omar.

Tom Emmer said no one is above the law and called for more details about the search and investigation.

Timing

Democrats criticized the search shortly before the midterm election, saying it could undermine Omar ahead of the vote.

Emmer welcomed the search and said accountability was coming.

Pakistan detains 278 members of Imran Khan’s party under emergency rule

Police say 278 members of Imran Khan’s party have been detained in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa since emergency rule was imposed. Protests calling for the jailed former prime minister’s release have weakened.

World

EU adds €25 million for migration cooperation in eastern Libya

The EU has signed an additional €25 million for border management, search-and-rescue and anti-smuggling work in eastern Libya, as it seeks to curb irregular migration to Europe.

“Libya remains the top country of departure for illegal crossings to the EU”
Ursula von der LeyenEuropean Commission president

Oil and gas eruption in eastern Niger causes severe environmental incident

An oil and gas eruption at a Nigerien oil site has been under way since September 25. Two workers were injured, and authorities say it is only partly contained.

At least 72 gold miners killed in strike near Sudan-Egypt border

A Sudanese rights group says air strikes killed at least 72 gold miners near the Egypt-Sudan border. It blamed Egypt, which has not commented, but the claim has not been independently verified.

At least 139 migrants dead after boat capsizes off Djibouti

A boat carrying 305 people from Djibouti to Yemen capsized near Obock. At least 139 people died, 84 are missing and 82 survived.

AKA and Tibz murder trial adjourned as defence challenges firearm evidence

The trial over the 2023 murders of rapper AKA and businessman Tibz in Durban was adjourned as the defence challenged evidence linking a firearm to one accused.

G-24 urges cheaper financing as developing economies face high debt costs

G-24 chair Taiwo Oyedele said developing economies face high borrowing costs and debt risks, and urged the IMF and World Bank to offer vulnerable countries more affordable financing.

Attacks push Kaduna residents from homes and drive up city rents

Kidnappings and attacks are driving residents from communities outside Kaduna, Nigeria, into the city, where demand for apartments has pushed rents higher.

Repeated kidnappings and attacks are driving residents from communities outside Kaduna into areas they consider safer within the city.

Some homeowners have left properties they spent years building, while others are trying to sell at prices they consider too low.

Rents have risen as more people seek homes in the city; some three-bedroom apartments along Gwamna Road now cost 3 million to 3.5 million naira, up from 1.2 million to 1.5 million.

These newer communities had offered lower-income residents a way to buy land and build homes gradually.

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Egypt’s Baha’i community faces a shortage of burial space

Cairo’s last remaining cemetery for Egypt’s Baha’i community is nearly full, while requests for burial grounds in other cities have been rejected, according to community members.

Baha’i merchants brought the faith to Egypt.

A court ruling allowed people outside Islam, Christianity and Judaism to leave a dash in the religion field on identity documents.

Hanan Kamal El-Din won an individual court ruling recognising her Baha’i marriage.

A higher court overturned that ruling.

The Straits Times reported that Egypt’s Baha’i community’s last remaining burial place was quickly running out of room.

African Union holds Kigali talks to advance eastern DRC peace process

Three former African presidents met Rwandan officials and regional representatives in Kigali to discuss security, refugee protection and cooperation as fighting continues in eastern DRC.

Kigali consultations
October 6; year not stated
Goma meetings
October 5; eastern DRC
AU delegation
Sahle-Work Zewde, Uhuru Kenyatta and Mokgweetsi Masisi
Washington Peace Agreement
Signed by the DRC and Rwanda on June 27, 2025

Climate activists protest African Energy Week in Cape Town

Greenpeace Africa and Extinction Rebellion campaigners protested in Cape Town against new oil and gas exploration in Africa. Police removed the protesters.

Climate activists South Africa’s government

New oil and gas exploration

Activists called for an end to new oil and gas exploration across the continent.

The government is seeking to expand oil and gas development to attract investment and bolster energy security.

Role of natural gas

Activists said expanding fossil fuel use would conflict with climate commitments to reduce emissions.

The government presents natural gas as a complement to renewable energy, saying gas-fired plants could provide electricity when wind and solar output drops.

Joseph Kabila launches new coalition linked to eastern Congo insurgency

Former Congolese President Joseph Kabila has launched a political-military coalition to replace the AFC-M23 alliance fighting government forces in eastern Congo. He will lead the group alongside rebel leaders.

Business

IMF warns of risks from AI, rising bond yields and cyberattacks

The IMF says a downturn in AI investments, rising government bond yields and major cyberattacks could unsettle global markets. It urged authorities to limit excessive borrowing and strengthen cyber defenses.

“Uma correção no mercado de IA afetará a economia real”
Athanasios VamvakidisIMF deputy director of the Monetary and Capital Markets Department

IMF and World Bank leaders urge support for young workers facing AI disruption

IMF chief Kristalina Georgieva warned AI could disrupt jobs, especially entry-level roles. Singapore’s president urged governments to make support for young workers a lasting policy.

Apple’s Smartphone Share Reaches 22% as Global Shipments Fall

Apple’s share of global smartphone shipments hit a third-quarter record of 22%, even as its shipments fell and the market contracted 20% year over year.

IMF warns poorer countries may need spending cuts or debt restructuring

The IMF says low-income countries hit by higher energy costs may have to cut spending or restructure debt, while urging targeted support for those most affected.

European datacenter growth could raise electricity bills by 2035

Datacenters are expected to use a growing share of Europe’s electricity by 2035, putting pressure on power networks and potentially raising bills. Governments may respond with price caps, taxes or other restrictions.

Global stock markets show no clear direction as oil prices fall

Global stock markets had no clear direction on Tuesday as oil prices fell and technology shares declined.

IMF lifts 2026 global growth forecast as AI investment offsets energy shock

The IMF forecasts 3.1% global growth in 2026, as AI investment helps offset higher energy prices linked to the Middle East war. It warns that risks are growing and benefits are uneven.

The IMF raised its 2026 global growth forecast to 3.1% as it released its outlook during meetings in Bangkok.

Strong investment in artificial intelligence is helping offset higher energy prices caused by the war in the Middle East.

The boost is strongest in advanced economies and countries that supply AI hardware, while many energy-importing countries are facing weaker growth.

Countries directly affected by the conflict are expected to suffer steep downturns, including Saudi Arabia, where the economy is forecast to shrink by 3.3%.

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Oil prices dip as expected Russian diesel supplies offset Gulf risks

Oil prices edged lower after rising nearly $2 a barrel on Monday. Traders weighed possible extra Russian diesel supplies against threats to Gulf shipping and energy infrastructure.

Brent futures settled at $106.65 a barrel, their highest close since September 15.

Iran-aligned Houthis struck Riyadh’s international airport, and tanker attacks were reported near the Strait of Hormuz.

Brent futures were down 61 cents to $106.04 a barrel and US West Texas Intermediate was down 47 cents to $93.27.

European fintech sovereignty faces a public-interest problem

The debate over European financial sovereignty has been prominent in fintech this year, but the story argues that people do not care enough for the idea to work.

Outlet
Sifted
Published
13 October 2026
Region
Europe
Debate
European financial sovereignty has been a major fintech discussion this year

Global debt tops $365 trillion, increasing pressure on governments

Global debt exceeded $365 trillion in the first half of 2026, reaching 310% of global GDP. Rising interest costs and economic shocks are making it harder for governments to manage their debts.

IMF raises 2026 global growth forecast slightly to 3.1%

The IMF raised its 2026 global growth forecast to 3.1% from 3.0% in July. It says AI demand is helping offset the effects of higher energy prices, but growth is uneven across countries.

Science & Tech

NASA’s Perseverance rover sets record with 45.2km driven on Mars

Perseverance has driven 45.2km on Mars, surpassing the previous record held by NASA’s Opportunity rover. NASA says the rover’s autonomous navigation system handles more than 90% of its driving.

“The original mission called for no more than 12.4 miles of driving. We’ve blown well past that, and with all mobility systems fully operational and favorable extended-ground-life test results, we expect Perseverance to keep adding to this record for many years to come.”
Steven LeePerseverance and Curiosity project manager at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory

Cyberattack overheats refrigeration systems in hundreds of French supermarkets

Hackers remotely changed Danfoss refrigeration settings, spoiling fresh and frozen food in hundreds of French supermarkets. French authorities have opened an investigation.

Meta unveils two AI models it says rival leading systems

Meta introduced Muse Wonder and Wonder Full, saying they perform comparably to models from OpenAI and Anthropic. The models are expected to be available through its Muse app for paid subscribers.

Cyberattack Defrosts Refrigerators at Hundreds of French Supermarkets

A cyberattack remotely triggered defrosting at hundreds of French supermarket stores, spoiling fresh and frozen food and reportedly causing fires. French prosecutors have opened an investigation.

Beats and Pokémon unveil special-edition Pill speaker for $149

The gray Beats Pill features Pikachu and Mimikyu artwork, custom packaging and three lanyard charms. It goes on sale October 15 for $149.

Rain may ease heat in Telangana over the next four days

A Bay of Bengal trough is expected to bring light rain to Telangana over the next four days, helping temperatures return closer to normal after a dry, hot spell.

Apple announces HomePod mini 2 with Siri AI and new sound features

Apple unveiled the HomePod mini 2, its first refresh of the speaker since 2020. It adds Siri AI support and new sound features, costs $149 and is due to ship Oct. 30.

Apple has announced the HomePod mini 2, its first update to the small smart speaker since the original launched in 2020.

The new model keeps the same design but adds an S10 chip and comes in refreshed colors.

Siri AI features require a compatible Apple Intelligence-enabled iPhone or iPad, which lets the speaker use personal context and connect with apps such as Messages and Calendar.

A new feature called Sound Glow makes the speaker’s top light up in time with music.

Read full story →

Apple plans to unveil smart home devices at New York event

Apple is expected to introduce a smart home hub, a HomePod mini and an updated Apple TV 4K at a New York event. The products’ features and release dates have not been confirmed.

Apple held its “Welcome Home” event in New York City and revealed HomeView.

HomeView pre-orders opened.

Apple said HomeView would ship.

Ahold Delhaize takes some systems offline after cyberattack

The grocery group says it disconnected some systems to contain a security issue. Stores remain open, but some online services and orders have been disrupted.

Systems
Some taken offline
Company response
Teams assessing and mitigating the issue
Stores
Ahold Delhaize said they remained open
Reported service disruptions
Albert Heijn and Delhaize online orders and services; some US employee systems

Epic Games shifts toward AI to speed up game development

CEO Tim Sweeney says Epic Games is reorganising to use AI more in game development. A Disney collaboration featuring Marvel and Star Wars characters is reportedly delayed.

AI critics Tim Sweeney

AI’s role in creative work

Critics have raised concerns about the growing use of AI in creative sectors.

Sweeney said AI can empower creators and that Epic should prepare for the future.

Apple launches $299 Apple TV 4K with AI-powered Siri

Apple unveiled a new Apple TV 4K with an upgraded chip, AI-powered content search and built-in microphones for voice commands without the remote. It goes on sale November 13.

Sports

Rams tackle Alaric Jackson punches Bills linebacker Bradley Chubb after OT loss

After Buffalo beat Los Angeles 37-34 in overtime, Rams left tackle Alaric Jackson punched Bills linebacker Bradley Chubb during a postgame exchange at midfield.

“It's just emotions, you know what I mean? Emotional game. It was a close game,”
Bradley ChubbBills linebacker

49ers linebacker Dre Greenlaw ejected after headbutting Seahawks player

Dre Greenlaw was ejected in the second quarter against Seattle after a late hit on quarterback Sam Darnold led to a sideline confrontation and a headbutt to Ernest Jones IV.

Penix says he hopes to play next week after rib injury

Atlanta quarterback Michael Penix Jr. left the Falcons’ overtime loss to Baltimore with a rib injury. He said he hopes to return next week, but further tests are planned.

Bills stay in Los Angeles before short-week game in Las Vegas

After beating the Rams on Monday night, Buffalo will stay in Los Angeles and prepare there for Sunday's game against the Raiders in Las Vegas.

Two players ejected after opening-kickoff fight in London

Jacksonville’s Bryan Thomas Jr. and Philadelphia’s Jeremiah Trotter Jr. were ejected after fighting during the opening kickoff. A 90-yard Jaguars return for a touchdown was called back because of penalties.

Kenneth Walker III and Mike Evans lead early NFL free-agent rankings

After five weeks of the 2026 NFL season, running back Kenneth Walker III and receiver Mike Evans stand out among players who joined new teams as free agents.

Jaguars left tackle Anton Harrison to have knee surgery

Anton Harrison will have arthroscopic surgery on his right knee after an injury against Philadelphia. His absence could last three to five weeks or the rest of the regular season.

Jaguars left tackle Anton Harrison will have surgery on his right knee after being injured against Philadelphia in London.

He was hurt during Jacksonville’s 19-17 win and was taken off the field on a cart.

The team does not yet know how serious the injury is; doctors will assess the damage during surgery.

Depending on what they find, Harrison could miss three to five weeks or the rest of the regular season.

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Oregon slips in power ratings after narrow loss with backup quarterbacks

Oregon fell to 3-2 after a two-point loss despite seven turnovers and a switch to its third-string quarterback. It dropped in the power ratings, but not as far as expected.

Oregon lost by two points after turning the ball over seven times and using its third-string quarterback.

Tom Fornelli published ratings showing Oregon had fallen, but remained among the previous week’s top 12.

FIU visits Jacksonville State in a key Conference USA game

Florida International visits Jacksonville State on Oct. 13 with both teams unbeaten in Conference USA play. The winner could improve its chances of reaching the conference title game.

Game time
8 p.m. ET
Broadcast
ESPNU
Conference
Conference USA
FIU total defense
Fourth nationally, allowing 241.7 yards per game

Jaguars, Bengals and others emerge as Super Bowl sleeper contenders

A look at seven teams outside the top six betting favorites finds potential Super Bowl contenders, including the Jaguars, Bengals, Lions, Bears and Broncos.

Steelers’ draft setback may have led to a stronger offensive line

After Philadelphia drafted Makai Lemon ahead of Pittsburgh, the Steelers selected tackle Max Iheanachor. He has since started at right tackle as the offense has improved.

Entertainment

Bryan Cranston mourns Breaking Bad co-star RJ Mitte, who died at 34

Cranston paid tribute to Mitte, who played his son on Breaking Bad, remembering his acting and disability advocacy. Accounts differ on whether his death was officially confirmed as suicide.

“I’m in deep despair as I write this tonight.”
Bryan CranstonActor who played Walter White

Van Gogh painting unseen in public for 60 years goes on display in Hong Kong

Hundreds queued in Hong Kong to see Van Gogh’s 1890 painting “Chestnut Trees in Blossom,” ahead of a New York auction on November 18 where it is expected to fetch about $180 million.

Harry Styles urges people to look after each other after ICE shooting

At a Madison Square Garden show, Styles named Oscar Belgal, who was shot by an ICE agent in the Bronx while his five-year-old son was in the car. Belgal survived and is being held in detention.

CJ ENM and MBC to launch Korean content hub on Shahid

The companies signed a long-term deal to bring a TVing-branded hub to MBC’s Shahid streaming service, with new Korean shows and library titles for Middle East and North Africa audiences.

Celebrity Traitors faces leaks and rule breaches as BBC warns cast

Richard E. Grant revealed he was a Traitor in a June radio interview, while spoilers circulated among cast members. The BBC says contestants have been reminded of its rules.

Rebecca Allen to leave UMG UK role after 27 years at Universal

Rebecca Allen is set to leave her role as UMG UK's Chief Artist and Strategy Officer after 27 years at Universal. She was promoted to the newly created role in December 2025.

Selma Blair charged with assault after flight incident in New York

Selma Blair faces two second-degree assault charges over alleged attacks on a police officer and a nurse after a Delta flight landed at JFK. She was released on bail and has a court hearing scheduled for January.

Actor Selma Blair faces two assault charges after an incident on a Delta flight from Los Angeles to New York.

The charges say she allegedly kicked a police officer taking her to hospital and later kicked a nurse in Queens.

She was arraigned in Queens on two counts of second-degree assault and has pleaded not guilty, according to one account.

A judge set bail at $20,000 cash or a $60,000 bond, and she was released.

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TNA ends Max Caster’s run after Riyadh attack reference at Bound for Glory

TNA said Max Caster will no longer wrestle for the company after his entrance rap at Bound for Glory referred to attacks in Riyadh. TNA apologized and removed the segment from replays and social media.

Wrestling Observer dated the attack at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh to this day.

Caster performed an entrance rap referencing the Riyadh attacks before his match against Moose at Bound for Glory.

TNA announced Caster would no longer wrestle for the promotion and said it had removed the segment from replays and social media.

Apple announces Vision Pro horror film Remnants for October 16

Remnants, a horror film by writer and director Ti West, will be released exclusively on Apple Vision Pro on October 16 in Apple’s immersive video format.

Title
Remnants
Writer and director
Ti West
Release date
October 16, 2026
Setting
Woldmere Castle

Ego Nwodim responds to Shane Gillis’ joke about women’s gym clothes

After Gillis joked that women at the gym “dress like whores” on SNL, Nwodim posted a gym photo captioned “whore reporting for duty.” Dan Levy also criticized the remarks.

Ego Nwodim and Dan Levy Shane Gillis

Women’s gym clothes

Nwodim mocked Gillis’ description with a gym photo captioned “whore reporting for duty”; Levy said short shorts do not make women whores.

Gillis joked that women in workout clothes “dress like whores.

Documentary to tell story of four founding Jackson 5 brothers

A new documentary will follow Jackie, Jermaine, Marlon and Tito Jackson, exploring their rise with the Jackson 5 and the different paths their lives took. It will be released as a feature film and a three-part series.

Health

Sixth measles-related death reported in Pennsylvania

A 39-year-old unvaccinated woman in Franklin County is the sixth person reported to have died in Pennsylvania amid the state’s largest measles outbreak in three decades.

“primary cause of death was a probable acute cardiac event due to possible complications of the measles.”
Franklin County coroner’s office spokespersonCoroner’s office spokesperson

Europa Donna calls for consistent care for metastatic breast cancer in Italy

Europa Donna Italia is urging breast care centres across Italy to follow specific quality standards and provide coordinated support for women with metastatic breast cancer.

Intestinal gases may offer clues about gut health

Gut microbes produce gases as they break down indigestible food. Research suggests these gases may affect digestion and offer clues about gastrointestinal health.

Singapore public healthcare services recover after network disruption

A network connectivity issue disrupted some services at Singapore public healthcare institutions on Tuesday. Services were restored by 4.37pm, and most patients later reported little impact.

Nearly 40 patients evacuated after fire at Georgia rehabilitation hospital

Walton Rehabilitation Hospital in Augusta evacuated nearly 40 patients after an electrical fire began in an HVAC unit on Oct. 10. Firefighters contained the damage to the unit.

Orthopaedic specialist explains five common myths about arthritis

Dr Ankur Singh says smoking can raise arthritis risk, while exercise adapted to a person’s condition can help. He says evidence does not link knuckle cracking to osteoarthritis.

Drinking water helps prevent dehydration but does not directly lower blood sugar

A diabetes educator says water can help prevent dehydration from worsening high blood sugar, but it does not lower glucose or replace prescribed treatment.

Drinking water does not directly lower high blood sugar, according to diabetes educator and nurse Megan Asterino-McGeean.

She says staying hydrated can help prevent dehydration from making the situation worse.

When the body loses water, blood becomes more concentrated, which can raise a blood sugar reading.

High glucose can also lead the kidneys to remove more water through urine, increasing the risk of dehydration.

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Asti healthy ageing project presented as European good practice

A health authority in Asti presented its Communit-Action project in Vilnius, where it was recognised as a European good practice for supporting healthy and active ageing.

The Asti local health authority launched the Communit-Action project.

The Asti health authority presented the project in Vilnius.

Exercise may improve mood and quality of life during menopause, study finds

A review of 12 trials involving more than 1,000 women found that aerobic exercise and activities such as yoga were linked to better mood or quality of life during menopause.

Trials reviewed
12
Participants
More than 1,000 women
Participant ages
40 to 65
Study institution
University College London

At least 90 lawsuits allege weight-loss drugs caused vision loss

Patients in the US say drugs including Ozempic and Wegovy caused a condition that can lead to permanent vision loss. The link remains disputed.

Claimants alleging drug-related vision loss Experts questioning whether the drugs cause NAION

Cause

Claimants say they developed NAION while using the drugs.

Some experts say there is little scientific evidence proving the drugs cause NAION.

Evidence

The article reports a 2024 study finding semaglutide users were around four times more likely to develop the condition than people taking other diabetes treatment.

Experts have questioned the validity of the claims, and the article says the possible mechanism has not been fully proven.

Dietitians suggest three steps for making a more satisfying smoothie

Dietitians recommend choosing a suitable liquid, adding produce and checking for nutritional gaps. The right ingredients depend on whether the smoothie is a meal, snack or workout drink.