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Recent studies reveal significant findings in paleontology, including a new tyrannosaur species in Mexico, insights into ancient rock art in South Africa, and the discovery of a small dinosaur in Japan. These findings enhance our understanding of prehistoric biodiversity and indigenous knowledge of extinct species.
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Shigeru Ishiba has been confirmed as Japan's new prime minister following his leadership victory in the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP). He faces immediate challenges, including a snap election on October 27 and addressing rising living costs and regional security threats. Ishiba's cabinet includes notable figures, but only two women were appointed.
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On September 21, 2024, President Biden hosted leaders from Australia, India, and Japan in Wilmington, Delaware, for the Quad summit. The meeting focused on enhancing cooperation, including a new maritime agreement and initiatives to combat illegal fishing and improve health outcomes in the Indo-Pacific region.
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On June 12, 2024, Chu Kai-pong became the first person convicted under Hong Kong's new national security law for wearing a pro-democracy T-shirt. This case underscores the ongoing suppression of dissent in the region, as authorities impose stricter penalties for sedition, raising concerns about freedom of expression and academic freedom.
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A World War II-era bomb exploded at Miyazaki Airport in Japan on October 2, 2024, creating a large crater in a taxiway. The incident led to the cancellation of over 80 flights, but no injuries were reported. The airport resumed operations the following morning.
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Tensions in the South China Sea escalate as the Philippines and China engage in confrontations over territorial claims. The Philippines asserts its rights amid aggressive actions from Chinese vessels, including blockades and confrontations at disputed shoals. Recent developments include the withdrawal of a Philippine coastguard ship and plans to take the dispute to the UN General Assembly.
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Joe El-Abd has been appointed as England's new defence coach, succeeding Felix Jones, who resigned unexpectedly. El-Abd, currently head coach at Oyonnax, will combine both roles initially and is expected to fully transition to England after the French season ends. His first challenge will be the autumn Tests starting in November.
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On September 25, 2024, Japan's MSDF destroyer Sazanami sailed through the Taiwan Strait, marking a significant military maneuver alongside Australian and New Zealand vessels. This transit occurs amid heightened tensions with China, which has increased military activities near Japan, prompting concerns from Tokyo.
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At least 39 people were killed and 3,000 injured in Lebanon due to explosions of pagers and walkie-talkies, suspected to be linked to an Israeli attack. Investigations are ongoing into the origins of the devices, with Taiwanese companies under scrutiny.
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Oasis has confirmed a North American tour for August and September 2025, following their UK reunion shows. The band aims to avoid previous ticketing issues by not using dynamic pricing for these concerts. Fans are eager to see the Gallagher brothers perform together after years of estrangement.
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The UK government faces pressure to fulfill its climate finance commitments, particularly regarding nature protection in developing countries. Recent data reveals a significant funding shortfall, necessitating a doubling of current spending to meet international targets ahead of key climate summits in Colombia and Azerbaijan.
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On September 23, 2024, Japan's Defense Minister Minoru Kihara confirmed that a Russian Il-38 patrol aircraft violated Japanese airspace above Rebun Island three times. In response, Japan scrambled F-15 and F-35 jets, marking the first use of flares to warn off a Russian aircraft since 2019. Japan lodged a strong diplomatic protest against Russia.
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Since September 23, Israel has intensified military operations against Hezbollah in Lebanon, displacing over 90,000 civilians. This escalation follows ongoing hostilities with Hamas in Gaza, raising fears of a broader regional conflict. Israeli officials claim the strikes target Hezbollah strongholds, while the humanitarian impact continues to grow.
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Hong Kong has welcomed two adult giant pandas, An An and Ke Ke, gifted by Beijing to celebrate the city's 27th anniversary of its return to Chinese sovereignty. The pandas will undergo a two-month quarantine before their public debut at Ocean Park, joining the recently born panda twins.
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On October 4, 2024, China's recent monetary stimulus package, including interest rate cuts and liquidity injections, has led to a significant rally in Chinese stocks. However, analysts caution that without accompanying fiscal support, these measures may not sufficiently address the underlying economic challenges, particularly in the property sector.
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At the UN Security Council, Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned of a catastrophic escalation in Lebanon, citing the recent surge in violence. Both Israel and Hezbollah are implicated, with calls for immediate ceasefire and diplomatic talks. The situation is exacerbated by Iran's potential involvement, raising fears of a broader regional conflict.
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On September 25, 2024, China conducted its first publicly announced intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) test in the Pacific Ocean in 44 years. The launch, described as routine military training, involved a missile traveling 12,000 km and raises concerns about China's expanding nuclear capabilities amid rising regional tensions.
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The OECD has upgraded the UK's GDP growth forecast for 2024 to 1.1%, surpassing several G7 nations. This follows a recovery from a mild recession in late 2023, although inflation remains the highest in the group at 2.7%. Chancellor Rachel Reeves emphasizes the need for continued economic reforms.
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A recent study reveals that myopia, or short-sightedness, has tripled globally since 1990, with a notable increase following the COVID-19 pandemic. The condition now affects over one-third of children and adolescents worldwide, particularly in East Asia. Researchers emphasize the need for public health initiatives to address this growing concern.
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On September 25, 2024, President Vladimir Putin announced significant changes to Russia's nuclear doctrine, stating that any attack on Russia by a non-nuclear state, supported by a nuclear power, would be considered a joint attack. This revision aims to deter Western support for Ukraine amid ongoing military tensions.
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Tensions between Israel and Hezbollah have intensified, with Israel conducting extensive airstrikes in Lebanon following a missile attack on Tel Aviv by Hezbollah. Global leaders, including Biden and Macron, are calling for a ceasefire to prevent further escalation and humanitarian crises. The UK is deploying troops to Cyprus for potential evacuations.
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Iwao Hakamada, the world's longest-serving death row inmate, was acquitted by a Japanese court after spending 48 years in prison for a quadruple murder he did not commit. The Shizuoka District Court found that evidence against him was fabricated and that he was coerced into a confession, highlighting serious flaws in Japan's criminal justice system.
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Shigeru Ishiba has been elected leader of Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and is expected to replace Prime Minister Fumio Kishida. Ishiba aims to strengthen Japan's military alliances and establish a collective security framework in Asia, amid rising tensions with China and North Korea. His leadership marks a significant shift in Japan's defense policy.
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Frasers Group has proposed a £83 million takeover bid for Mulberry, valuing shares at 130p each. Mulberry's board rejected the offer, citing its potential for future growth and support from its majority shareholder, Challice. The luxury brand is currently facing financial difficulties, including a £34 million pre-tax loss last year.
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In a bid to uplift spirits following a disputed election, Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has declared an early start to Christmas festivities. Caracas is adorned with decorations, but many citizens express skepticism and concern over the economic implications of this move amidst ongoing political repression.
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Japan's new foreign minister, Takeshi Iwaya, discussed the potential for an Asian NATO during his first press conference. He emphasized the need for a cooperative security framework in the Indo-Pacific, while acknowledging the challenges of establishing mutual defense obligations among Asian nations.
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Bridgestone struck sponsorship deals with the Olympics for 10 years in 2014 and the Paralympics for six years in 2018.