What are National Insurance and income tax and what could change in the Budget?

The ongoing government shutdown is causing significant tension among US Democrats, with a senior aide stating that they won't budge unless a catastrophic event occurs, like 'planes falling out of the sky.' This highlights the severity of the impasse and raises concerns about the potential impact on government services and the economy, making it a critical issue for citizens and lawmakers alike.

The ongoing government shutdown is causing significant tension among US Democrats, with a senior aide stating that they won't budge unless a catastrophic event occurs, like 'planes falling out of the sky.' This highlights the severity of the impasse and raises concerns about the potential impact on government services and the economy, making it a critical issue for citizens and lawmakers alike.

Israel has taken a significant step by ratifying a ceasefire and a plan for the release of hostages in Gaza. This decision, which includes a partial withdrawal of the Israel Defense Forces from the enclave, is crucial as it aims to reduce tensions and pave the way for a more peaceful resolution in the region. The approval of this outline by the government signals a willingness to engage in dialogue and prioritize humanitarian concerns, making it a pivotal moment for both Israeli and Palestinian communities.

Israel has taken a significant step by ratifying a ceasefire and a plan for the release of hostages in Gaza. This decision, which includes a partial withdrawal of the Israel Defense Forces from the enclave, is crucial as it aims to reduce tensions and pave the way for a more peaceful resolution in the region. The approval of this outline by the government signals a willingness to engage in dialogue and prioritize humanitarian concerns, making it a pivotal moment for both Israeli and Palestinian communities.

The US Senate has taken a significant step by advancing a nearly $1 trillion Pentagon spending bill that not only boosts military funding but also extends aid to Ukraine through 2028. This move is crucial as it reflects the US commitment to supporting its allies and enhancing national security amidst ongoing global tensions. The bill's passage is expected to have a positive impact on defense capabilities and international relations.

The US Senate has taken a significant step by advancing a nearly $1 trillion Pentagon spending bill that not only boosts military funding but also extends aid to Ukraine through 2028. This move is crucial as it reflects the US commitment to supporting its allies and enhancing national security amidst ongoing global tensions. The bill's passage is expected to have a positive impact on defense capabilities and international relations.

Israeli forces have started to pull back in Gaza following the Israeli government's approval of President Trump's ceasefire plan. This development is significant as it marks a potential step towards reducing tensions in the region and fostering peace, which many hope will lead to a more stable environment for both Israelis and Palestinians.

Israeli forces have started to pull back in Gaza following the Israeli government's approval of President Trump's ceasefire plan. This development is significant as it marks a potential step towards reducing tensions in the region and fostering peace, which many hope will lead to a more stable environment for both Israelis and Palestinians.

President Emmanuel Macron is gearing up to meet with leaders of France's main political parties as he faces a crucial deadline to appoint a new prime minister. With the country on its sixth PM in less than two years, Macron is looking for a unifying figure who can bridge the divide between the centre-right and centre-left to ensure the budget passes in a fragmented parliament. This meeting is significant as it comes at a time when the political crisis is impacting economic growth, making the choice of PM critical for France's future.

President Emmanuel Macron is gearing up to meet with leaders of France's main political parties as he faces a crucial deadline to appoint a new prime minister. With the country on its sixth PM in less than two years, Macron is looking for a unifying figure who can bridge the divide between the centre-right and centre-left to ensure the budget passes in a fragmented parliament. This meeting is significant as it comes at a time when the political crisis is impacting economic growth, making the choice of PM critical for France's future.

The UK government has announced plans to introduce a digital ID scheme for 13-year-olds by 2029, sparking significant backlash from various groups. Critics are concerned about privacy and the implications of monitoring young individuals, raising questions about the necessity and safety of such a system. This move is crucial as it highlights the ongoing debate around digital identity and the balance between security and personal freedom.

The UK government has announced plans to introduce a digital ID scheme for 13-year-olds by 2029, sparking significant backlash from various groups. Critics are concerned about privacy and the implications of monitoring young individuals, raising questions about the necessity and safety of such a system. This move is crucial as it highlights the ongoing debate around digital identity and the balance between security and personal freedom.

The latest updates from the World Cup qualifiers feature matches like Sweden against Switzerland and France facing Azerbaijan. These games are crucial as teams vie for a spot in the prestigious tournament, and players like Djed Spence are making headlines with their performances. Fans are eager to see how these matches unfold and what they mean for the teams' chances of qualifying.

The ongoing government shutdown is now entering its third week, leading to confirmed layoffs at the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency as the Department of Homeland Security announces reductions in force. With Congress deadlocked over funding, the situation is becoming increasingly dire for federal workers. This matters because it not only affects the livelihoods of those workers but also raises concerns about national security and the functioning of essential government services during a critical time.

Denmark is set to invest $8.5 billion in weapons, including F-35 jet fighters, signaling its commitment to addressing security threats from China and Russia. This significant investment not only strengthens Denmark's defense capabilities but also sends a clear message to the international community, particularly to the U.S. under Trump's administration, about the importance of collective security in a changing geopolitical landscape.

The recent passing of Hefin David has led to a by-election in Caerphilly, a significant event for the local political landscape. By-elections are crucial as they can shift the balance of power and reflect the current sentiments of the electorate. This particular by-election will not only honor David's legacy but also determine the future direction of representation in the area.

Karla Gachet and Ivan Kashinsky are capturing the vibrant essence of cumbia music across various countries, including Peru. Their work highlights the cultural significance of this genre, showcasing how it connects communities and reflects their stories. This documentation not only celebrates the rich musical heritage of Latin America but also emphasizes the importance of preserving these cultural expressions in a rapidly changing world.

Recently, President Donald Trump has taken a more assertive stance towards Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, leveraging his influence to push for a ceasefire in Gaza after a prolonged conflict. This shift is significant as it marks a departure from Trump's previous reluctance to intervene, highlighting his ambition to be seen as a global peacemaker. The outcome of this pressure could lead to a more stable situation in the region, making it a crucial moment for both US foreign policy and Middle Eastern peace efforts.