Independent State in Melanesia, with a Westminster system and Port Moresby at its capital
New Zealand has crushed Fiji 66-6 on the Gold Coast with several players sidelined by injuries and suspensions. Kalyn Ponga is training and could be involved in the semi-final; Crossland returns from suspension. Australia and Samoa/Tonga loom in the other semi-final path.
Nigel Farage has unveiled "Operation Fortress": a Reform UK plan to use the Royal Navy to intercept small boats in the English Channel, detain those on board, and return them to France or Belgium. The proposal has drawn legal, military and diplomatic scepticism, French officials have condemned it, and rivals say it aims to distract from party financial scandals.
Nauru has inaugurated an embassy in Jerusalem, signaling unwavering support for Israel and aiming to expand its diplomatic presence in the capital. Israeli officials describe the move as boosting Jerusalem’s global standing and anticipate more countries following suit in the coming months.
England's rugby union head coach Steve Borthwick has had his contract extended past the 2028 Six Nations to provide certainty ahead of next year’s World Cup in Australia. The RFU says the move will allow time to decide leadership beyond the tournament while backing the team if they perform well in Australia.
UNICEF reports 171 million learners across 106 countries faced climate-related disruptions in 2025. Storms, floods and heatwaves disrupted classes; girls face higher dropout risks. The report warns of US$200 billion in potential lifetime earnings losses and calls for resilient school infrastructure and data systems.
Palestinian President Abbas has addressed the UN via a pre-recorded video, while Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu is delivering a live address. Abbas has called for ending the war in Gaza, a withdrawal from Gaza, and a political process toward an independent Palestinian state. Netanyahu is focusing on Israel's security concerns and Iran, with some world leaders planning protests in New York.
Colombia has opened its embassy in Jerusalem, restoring diplomatic ties with Israel after severing them in 2024 over Gaza. The move is welcomed by Colombian and Israeli officials as a step to rebuild dialogue and security and trade cooperation. Protests in Bogota contest the decision amid ongoing Gaza war coverage.
Colombia has restored diplomatic relations with Israel and opened an embassy in Jerusalem, marking a shift from the Petro era. The move is celebrated by officials in both countries and signals a strengthened security and trade partnership, with priority given to dialogue and mutual benefits for citizens.
The Guardian and BBC reports show England and Australia naming their squads for upcoming World Cup fixtures, with heritage-based selections and debuts for several players. The Guardian notes changes in Wales and Australia XIII selections, while BBC coverage highlights England’s half-back choices ahead of Perth clashes. The tone remains focused on squad depth and upcoming tests as the tournament begins.