Jakarta overtakes Tokyo as world’s most populous city, according to UN

Israel has launched air strikes on the West Bank, resulting in significant casualties and forcing approximately 32,000 Palestinians to flee their homes amid ongoing military operations. This escalation follows a series of violent incidents, including attacks by Israeli settlers against Palestinian communities.

Former U.S. President Donald Trump advised Japan to temper its rhetoric regarding Taiwan following a phone call with Chinese President Xi Jinping, which raised concerns in Tokyo about escalating tensions in the region. Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi had previously suggested a military response if China were to attack Taiwan, prompting a strong reaction from Beijing.

The United Nations has reported that the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict has led to the worst economic collapse in Gaza's history, erasing decades of growth and plunging the region into a severe crisis. The humanitarian situation remains dire as essential services and infrastructure have been devastated by the violence.

Torrential rain in Sumatra, Indonesia, has led to flash floods and landslides, resulting in at least 17 fatalities. The severe weather has caused significant destruction, prompting emergency responses in the affected areas.

Researcher Septian Andriki was overcome with emotion after discovering the rare Rafflesia hasseltii plant in Indonesia, marking the culmination of a 13-year search. This significant find highlights the persistence and dedication of researchers in the field of botany.

Tokyo has lost its status as the world's most populous megacity, now ranking third behind Jakarta and Dhaka, according to a recent report from the United Nations. This marks a significant shift in global urban demographics, as Tokyo had held this title for many years.

On the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, the UN reported alarming statistics indicating that a woman was killed every 10 minutes by someone close to her, with 50,000 women and girls murdered by intimate partners or family members in 2024. The rise of AI has exacerbated digital abuse against women, raising concerns about misogyny in the digital age.

The United Nations has recently endorsed Trump's Gaza plan, raising concerns about the implications of Resolution 2803 for the Palestinian population and international law. This resolution appears to legitimize Israel's ongoing occupation, which many view as a significant shift in the UN's stance on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.