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Scotland's football team is dealing with multiple injuries ahead of crucial World Cup qualifiers against Greece and Denmark. Key players are out, and head coach Steve Clarke must decide on the lineup for the upcoming matches, which could determine their qualification chances for the 2026 tournament.
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On Sunday, a magnitude 6.2 earthquake struck Sindirgi in Turkey's Balikesir province, killing one elderly resident and injuring 29 others. The quake caused 16 buildings to collapse, including a three-story apartment, and was felt as far as Istanbul. Over 200 aftershocks followed, prompting fears and outdoor sheltering. Authorities detained the apartment owner and constructor for negligence.
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Pro-Palestinian protests across Greece have intensified, targeting tourist sites and Israeli visitors amid ongoing Gaza conflict. Demonstrations include clashes with police, calls for arms embargoes, and embassy evacuations. Greek authorities face diplomatic tensions, with some officials condemning violence and others defending the right to protest. The protests reflect broader regional tensions.
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Wildfires across southern Europe, driven by record heatwaves and drought, have burned over 348,000 hectares in Spain, France, Portugal, and Turkey this summer. Multiple fatalities and large-scale evacuations have occurred amid ongoing heat and dry conditions, with climate change identified as a key factor.
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Canada faces its second-worst wildfire season with over 700 fires burning, driven by climate change and human activity. US and Canadian leaders debate responsibility, with climate scientists emphasizing the role of warming temperatures and droughts. The US's climate policies remain largely dismissive, complicating international cooperation.
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Wildfires driven by heatwaves, thunderstorms, and strong winds continue to ravage southern Europe, affecting Greece, Albania, Spain, and Turkey. Firefighting efforts are stretched thin, with multiple fatalities and evacuations. The fires are linked to prolonged heatwaves and climate change, with authorities warning of ongoing risks.
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Archaeologists uncovered a 9th-century BCE dam in Jerusalem's City of David, dating construction to a period of regional aridity. The structure indicates Jerusalem's early development as a resourceful and technologically advanced city, predating previous estimates and suggesting a powerful, wealthy center in the Iron Age.
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Amid rising temperatures and climate change, travelers are increasingly seeking destinations with milder climates, known as 'coolcations.' Regions like Europe, Japan, and the Arctic are experiencing shifts in tourism patterns, with some areas benefiting while others suffer declines due to extreme heat and weather disruptions.
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Despite a tourism boom, many Greeks are unable to afford holidays due to rising costs and stagnant wages. Fewer Greeks are traveling this summer, opting for short visits or staying home, highlighting economic disparities and the impact on local tourism and livelihoods.
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Recent US tariffs on Indian goods have doubled to 50%, prompting India to diversify trade partnerships amid ongoing negotiations. The US aims to resolve trade disputes, but relations remain strained after India’s retaliation over Russian oil imports and regional conflicts. Both sides seek a deal, but tensions persist.
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Europe's 2025 wildfire season, the worst on record, saw over 1 million hectares burned across Spain, Portugal, and the Mediterranean. Research from World Weather Attribution shows climate change made extreme heat and dry conditions 30-40 times more likely, intensifying fires by up to 30%, causing fatalities, mass evacuations, and damage to protected habitats.
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The IMF plans to merge its climate, development, inclusion, and gender units into its macro-financial division, signaling a shift away from its previous focus on climate change and gender issues. The move follows criticism from US critics and internal debates about the organization's priorities. The change will be formalized at October's fall meetings.
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Greece's government announced a €1.6bn package to address its demographic crisis, including tax cuts and incentives for families with children. The measures aim to boost fertility rates and counter population decline, with policies set for 2026. The move responds to Greece's aging population and economic challenges.
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Scotland's FIFA ranking rises after strong World Cup qualifying results, aiming for their first tournament since 1998. Meanwhile, the US men's team faces setbacks in friendlies ahead of the 2026 World Cup, with recent losses highlighting ongoing challenges against top teams.
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Ange Postecoglou, fired by Tottenham in June after a poor season, has been appointed as Nottingham Forest's new head coach. He replaces Nuno Espirito Santo, aiming to rebuild the club's trophy ambitions and European prospects, with his first game against Arsenal this Saturday. The move follows Forest's recent managerial change and his successful track record.
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Multiple Scottish clubs are under investigation for fan misconduct involving pyrotechnics, vandalism, and disorder. Rangers, Raith Rovers, and others face fines, ticket reductions, and bans following incidents at matches. UEFA and local authorities are responding to these ongoing issues today, September 12, 2025.
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On October 8, 2025, Turkish President Erdogan confirmed that US President Trump indicated the Halkbank sanctions issue is resolved, following their September 25 White House meeting. The leaders discussed lifting CAATSA sanctions and Turkey's return to the F-35 program, suspended since 2019 over Turkey's purchase of Russian S-400 missiles. Erdogan emphasized strengthening US-Turkey ties amid regional tensions.
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The Global Sumud Flotilla, aiming to deliver aid to Gaza, reported multiple drone attacks, explosions, and communications jamming near Greece. Despite escalating threats, activists affirm their peaceful mission to break Israel's blockade. Israel denies allowing the vessels into Gaza, citing security concerns.
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A flotilla of around 50 civilian boats, including activists like Greta Thunberg, has joined efforts to break Israel's naval blockade of Gaza. Attacked by drones off Greece, the ships aim to deliver humanitarian aid and challenge the blockade amid rising tensions. Spain and Italy are deploying naval ships for protection.
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Recent US tariffs and trade negotiations are reshaping global supply chains. Europe and Southeast Asia face new barriers, while US allies like South Korea and Australia grapple with demands for large investment packages and tariffs on pharmaceuticals and semiconductors. The impact on regional economies is significant today, October 6, 2025.
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In Bari, Italy, a group of women known as 'pasta grannies' face police raids over allegations of selling factory-made pasta, threatening their traditional craft. Meanwhile, global food scenes in Athens, Copenhagen, Porto, and Florence highlight vibrant culinary cultures, with seasonal recipes and local ingredients shaping regional identities. The stories reflect tensions between tradition and regulation, and the enduring importance of authentic food.
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As of early October 2025, New Zealand maintains its position of not recognizing Palestinian statehood amid ongoing Gaza conflict, diverging from allies like the UK, Canada, and Australia who have recently recognized Palestine. Foreign Minister Winston Peters cites concerns that recognition now could hinder ceasefire efforts. The US has proposed a 20-point Gaza peace plan with mixed international reactions, while Israel rejects expanded Palestinian recognition.
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Recent migrant rescue operations reveal ongoing dangers and political disputes. A boat sank off Lesbos, Greece, with victims and survivors found. Meanwhile, Libyan coast guard intercepted migrant boats, with incidents involving drownings and resistance. These events underscore the perilous migration routes and strained rescue policies in the region.
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Ars Technica reviews Rally Arcade Classics, a nostalgic rally game featuring vintage cars and point-to-point stages across iconic landscapes. The indie title emphasizes fun over realism, with short, frenetic levels and recognizable cars from the 70s to 90s. It offers a throwback experience for rally fans and gamers alike.
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France and Greece are experiencing large-scale protests over government plans to introduce longer working hours and austerity measures. France's nationwide strike involves thousands protesting budget cuts and social justice issues, while Greece's general strike opposes a proposed 13-hour workday and labor law reforms. Both countries face significant public unrest today.
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Greta Thunberg, detained during the Israeli interception of the Global Sumud Flotilla, reports poor detention conditions, dehydration, and being forced to pose for photos. She is among over 70 foreign nationals set for deportation from Israel, with diplomatic efforts ongoing for her return to Sweden. The incident has sparked international criticism.
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Since early October 2025, Israeli forces intercepted the Global Sumud Flotilla, detaining around 450 international activists attempting to break the Gaza naval blockade. Detainees, including Greta Thunberg and Mandla Mandela, report harsh treatment, denial of medicine, and poor prison conditions. Israel denies abuse allegations, deporting most activists to various countries, while some remain detained amid international criticism.
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Israel has deported over 470 activists from the recent Gaza flotilla, including Greta Thunberg, amid allegations of mistreatment and ongoing tensions over Gaza aid. The deportations follow interception of multiple flotillas challenging Israel’s blockade, with some activists reporting harsh conditions and abuse during detention.
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Greta Thunberg and dozens of activists attempting to deliver aid to Gaza were intercepted and deported by Israeli forces. Over 340 activists have been expelled, with allegations of mistreatment during detention. The flotilla aimed to highlight Gaza's humanitarian crisis amid ongoing conflict.
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Australia has introduced a new law banning social media accounts for users under 16, effective December 10. Platforms face fines up to A$50 million if they fail to comply. The law aims to protect children from online risks, amid ongoing debates about enforcement and privacy concerns.
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Scotland's national football team secured a crucial 2-1 win over Belarus, putting them in a strong position to qualify for the 2026 World Cup. Captain Andy Robertson emphasized the team's progress amid domestic football upheaval and fan frustrations. The upcoming matches against Greece and Denmark are pivotal for qualification.
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A 2023 report highlights that 59 of the world's poorest nations paid $37bn in debt service but received only $32bn in climate finance. This debt-climate cycle hampers their ability to invest in health, education, and resilience, worsening their vulnerability to climate disasters.
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Unions in Greece have staged nationwide strikes against a new law allowing longer work hours and a six-day week. The legislation, expected to pass parliament, faces strong opposition from unions citing risks of over-exploitation and job insecurity. Protests disrupted transport and ferry services today.
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As of October 2025, Instagram enforces PG-13 content settings by default for users under 18, restricting exposure to mature themes unless parents approve changes. The update includes stricter filters on sensitive topics, limits on interactions with inappropriate accounts, and enhanced parental controls. The rollout begins in the US, UK, Canada, and Australia, expanding globally next year amid ongoing concerns about teen safety online.
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Recent updates to the Henley Passport Index show notable declines for the US, UK, Pakistan, and India, while China and several Asian countries have improved their rankings. The US has fallen out of the top 10 for the first time in 20 years, reflecting changing global mobility and diplomatic shifts.
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Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood hosts European counterparts in London to discuss tackling illegal migration via the Western Balkans. She emphasizes international cooperation to control borders, disrupt gangs, and address trafficking, amid criticism from opposition and Conservative critics about border control failures.
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On October 17, 2025, Birmingham's Safety Advisory Group, supported by West Midlands Police, banned Maccabi Tel Aviv fans from attending their November 6 Europa League match against Aston Villa due to security concerns linked to violent clashes at a 2024 Amsterdam match. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and other leaders condemned the ban as wrong and antisemitic, while officials seek ways to overturn it.
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Greece has approved legislation allowing 13-hour workdays, up from eight, aiming to increase labor market flexibility. The law has sparked protests and union opposition, amid stagnant wages and ongoing economic recovery from the debt crisis. The legislation limits overtime application and offers more short-term hiring options.
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A Turkish court has ordered a man to pay support for his cats in a divorce settlement, setting a precedent for pet care in legal disputes. Meanwhile, UAE courts have awarded custody and financial support to a woman after a divorce marked by neglect and abuse. Japan introduces new child support laws to ensure stability for children post-divorce.
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Greece's government proposed an amendment to protect the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, banning protests and physical alterations. Opposition parties criticize the move as an attempt to suppress dissent, especially amid protests over the 2023 Tempi train disaster. The amendment has sparked heated debate and protests in Athens.
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Rising borrowing costs and aid cuts are worsening debt crises in the global south, with countries like Ethiopia, Zambia, and South Sudan struggling to restructure debt. Meanwhile, France faces a political deadlock over its budget, raising concerns about its economic stability. Both stories highlight urgent need for reform and international cooperation.
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Recent cases of sudden death among young people in the UK, France, and Dubai highlight the importance of early screening for undiagnosed heart conditions. Experts warn that silent issues like ACM and congenital defects can be fatal without warning, urging routine checks and awareness.
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Scientists discovered a massive web in a sulfur cave on the Greece-Albania border, inhabited by 69,000 barn funnel weavers and 42,000 Prinerigone vagans. The web's inhabitants are normally solitary, but in this environment, they coexist and survive on midges feeding on cave microbes, indicating significant adaptation.
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German Chancellor Merz met with Turkish President Erdogan, emphasizing strategic partnership. The visit follows Turkey's recent purchase of Eurofighter jets from the UK and Germany's support for Turkey's role in a European defense initiative. Disputes over human rights and Gaza remain unresolved.
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Egypt's Grand Egyptian Museum opened this week, housing over 50,000 artifacts including King Tut's collection. The museum aims to boost tourism and national pride, while Egypt intensifies calls for the return of the Nefertiti bust from Germany, citing legal and ethical disputes. The debate highlights ongoing restitution tensions.