Gunman storms Manhattan skyscraper

A strong earthquake hit Russia’s Far East near the Kamchatka Peninsula, triggering tsunami warnings for the region. Authorities are urging coastal residents to stay alert, though it’s unclear yet if major damage or waves have occurred.

Editor’s Note: Earthquakes in this seismically active zone can quickly turn dangerous, especially with tsunami risks. Even if the alerts don’t escalate, it’s a tense situation for locals—and a reminder of how vulnerable coastal communities are to sudden geologic threats.

Australia’s Labor caucus is reportedly grappling with strong internal support to officially recognize Palestine, as Industry Minister Ed Husic highlights the "deep feeling" within the party. Meanwhile, Liberal Senator Jane Wells claims a powerful lobbying group—dubbed the "Big Wiggle"—pushed back against a proposed ban on YouTube, accusing the government of breaking promises on tech regulation.

Editor’s Note: This story captures two simmering debates in Australian politics: the delicate balance of foreign policy (especially on Palestine) and the influence of tech lobbies on government decisions. The Palestine discussion reflects global tensions hitting home, while the YouTube controversy shows how tech regulation is becoming a battleground between lawmakers and industry players. Both issues could shape public trust in the government’s ability to deliver on its promises.

A White House official, Sebastian Gorka, has accused the European Union of submitting to President Donald Trump’s demands, using the vivid phrase "bent at the knee" to suggest the EU caved under US pressure—likely over trade or policy negotiations. The remark implies a one-sided victory for the Trump administration, framing the EU as weak or compliant.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just diplomatic trash talk—it’s a signal of how tense transatlantic relations have become under Trump. If the EU is seen as yielding to US demands, it could fuel debates in Europe about sovereignty and whether pushing back is worth the political cost. For the US, it’s a boast of dominance, but one that might deepen distrust among allies.

A fresh poll reveals a sharp drop in American public backing for Israel's military actions in Gaza, with just 32% of respondents approving—a 10-point decline from last year. It’s a stark shift in sentiment that could ripple through U.S. policy debates.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just about numbers—it’s a signal that the political winds might be changing. With growing scrutiny over civilian casualties in Gaza, even staunch allies like the U.S. are facing pressure to recalibrate their stance. For policymakers, that could mean tougher questions ahead about military aid or diplomatic strategy. For the rest of us, it’s a reminder of how public opinion can turn, even on long-standing issues.

A tragic shooting in Manhattan left four dead, including NYPD officer Didarul Islam, after a gunman opened fire in a skyscraper housing the NFL headquarters and financial firms before turning the weapon on himself. Meanwhile, in a separate legal battle, a federal judge ruled that the Trump administration must keep reimbursing Planned Parenthood for Medicaid services, escalating tensions over Republican efforts to defund the organization.