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Heavy monsoon rains have caused severe flooding in Mumbai, disrupting local trains, inundating areas, and causing fatalities. The city’s transport system is heavily impacted, with many regions submerged in waist-deep water. The ongoing rains also affect flights and other infrastructure, highlighting the city’s vulnerability during monsoon season. This update reflects the situation as of August 20, 2025.
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Russian companies, notably the Alabuga factory in Tatarstan, are recruiting young women from South Africa under false pretenses, primarily to assemble military drones used in Ukraine. South African authorities are investigating these recruitment efforts amid concerns over human trafficking and foreign influence linked to Russia's war in Ukraine.
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Multiple Israeli strikes on Nasser Hospital in Gaza have killed at least 20 people, including four journalists, and wounded others. The strikes occurred during ongoing military operations, with reports of a second attack after rescue efforts began. Israel has ordered an inquiry, but has not commented publicly on the latest incident.
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Paul Colford, former AP media relations chief, and Charles Bierbauer, CNN veteran, died recently at ages 71 and 83 respectively. Both had distinguished careers in journalism, with Colford known for his leadership at AP and Bierbauer for his coverage of major political events and academic contributions. Their deaths mark the loss of influential figures in American journalism.
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President Trump and Xi Jinping held multiple calls this week, signaling efforts to stabilize relations. They discussed trade, TikTok, and upcoming in-person meetings at the APEC summit. While progress was reported, key issues like TikTok's ownership and trade tariffs remain unresolved amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.
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A jury failed to reach a verdict on 14 counts of sexual abuse against Darrell Smith, a former federal correctional officer at Dublin, California. Smith faced similar deadlocks in previous trials. The case highlights ongoing issues of misconduct at FCI Dublin, which was closed last year amid scrutiny.
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On Sunday morning, maintenance workers at Charlotte Douglas International Airport discovered the body of a suspected stowaway in the landing gear compartment of an American Airlines plane that had recently arrived from Europe. Authorities are investigating the death, with the identity and cause of death still unknown. Experts note most stowaways in wheel wells do not survive due to extreme conditions.
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A building collapse at the Al Khoziny Islamic school in East Java has resulted in at least 65 deaths and dozens of injuries. The incident occurred during an unauthorized expansion, with rescue efforts ongoing amid aftershocks and difficult conditions. Authorities are investigating the cause.
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On October 10-13, 2025, China imposed broad export controls on rare earth minerals, prompting US President Trump to threaten doubling tariffs on Chinese imports to 100% and impose export controls on critical software. China condemned US measures as hostile and damaging to trade talks. Both sides risk derailing a fragile trade truce ahead of a planned summit between Trump and Xi Jinping.
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Thousands of protesters in Brussels demonstrated against government plans to cut pensions and healthcare, leading to clashes with police and transportation disruptions. The protests reflect widespread opposition to austerity measures amid Belgium's rising budget deficit, with unions mobilizing large-scale strikes and walkouts.
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A recent analysis shows rapid growth in EV charging stations across the US, yet range anxiety persists among consumers. Meanwhile, a new study confirms EVs' environmental benefits over time, despite manufacturing emissions. Public concern about AI's energy use also highlights broader environmental anxieties.
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An investigation reveals that over the past decade, at least 230 school crossing guards across 37 states and Washington, D.C., have been struck by vehicles, with nearly 36 fatalities. Many are older adults, and few drivers face charges, highlighting safety concerns for this vulnerable workforce.
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Multiple states, including West Virginia and Tennessee, are deploying National Guard troops to Washington D.C. and Memphis amid ongoing legal challenges and political tensions. Courts are examining the legality of these deployments, which are linked to efforts to combat crime and unrest, with significant public and political backlash.
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Israel's government is advancing legislation to make temporary emergency powers permanent, allowing broad authority to shut down foreign media and regulate domestic outlets. Critics warn the laws threaten press freedom and judicial independence, especially affecting Palestinian media and voices. The bills are now progressing through the Knesset amid significant controversy.