The EU’s favorite war: the one Israel starts

A Hong Kong industry group called Web3 Harbour, alongside accounting giant PwC, just dropped a detailed plan—dubbed the "Hong Kong Web3 Blueprint"—to turbocharge blockchain development in the city. The report pushes for more investment and highlights five key areas (like talent and infrastructure) to harness the potential of Web3 tech, emphasizing its transparency and security. It’s riding the wave of Hong Kong’s recent push to become a crypto and blockchain hub.

Editor’s Note: Hong Kong’s making a serious play to lead in Web3—a big deal as cities worldwide jockey for position in the next phase of the internet. This blueprint isn’t just theoretical; it’s a signal to investors and tech talent that the city’s doubling down on blockchain. If it works, it could shape everything from finance to digital identity in the region, but it’ll hinge on whether the money and expertise follow.

Imagine a group of joggers and police officers—plus some four-legged companions—hitting the streets not just for exercise, but to keep their neighborhood safe. That’s the idea behind Seoul’s new Running Patrol program, where local runners team up with authorities to act as extra eyes and ears in public spaces. It’s a creative twist on community policing, blending fitness with civic duty, and yes, dogs are welcome too.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just about jogging—it’s about rethinking how cities can foster safety without heavy-handed measures. By tapping into existing communities (and their pets), Seoul’s testing a low-cost, high-engagement way to build trust and vigilance. If it works, don’t be surprised if other cities borrow the idea. Plus, who doesn’t love a good dog-in-vest cameo?

An Indian student in Sendai found unexpected connections between Indian cuisine, scientific research, and life in Fukushima—exploring how individual elements (like spices or data points) come together to create something greater. Their reflections bridge cultural identity, academic curiosity, and the resilience of communities living with Fukushima’s legacy.

Editor’s Note: It’s a quiet but thoughtful piece about how personal experiences—like cooking a meal or studying abroad—can reveal deeper truths about collaboration and adaptation. In a world often focused on division, stories like this remind us how loosely connected ideas (food, science, disaster recovery) can weave into a richer understanding of humanity.

This heartbreaking piece sheds light on the innocent children caught in the middle of Cape Town's relentless gang violence. These kids aren't just statistics—they're losing childhoods, safety, and sometimes their lives, simply because of where they live. The article doesn't just describe the problem; it forces us to see the human cost behind the headlines.

Editor’s Note: While gang violence often gets discussed in terms of crime rates or policing strategies, this story cuts deeper—it shows how cycles of trauma are being passed to a new generation. That matters because these kids didn't choose this war, but they're paying the highest price. It's a stark reminder that "collateral damage" has real faces.

Manchester City is set to face Al Ain in the Club World Cup tonight, with kickoff at 9pm ET (2am BST) in Atlanta. Manager Pep Guardiola hinted at possible lineup changes after their first match, suggesting he might rotate the squad. Meanwhile, a linked article dives into five key storylines shaping this year’s tournament.

Editor’s Note: For football fans, this is a chance to see one of Europe’s top clubs compete on the global stage—but with Guardiola potentially shuffling his lineup, it might not be the usual City dominance. The broader Club World Cup context (like fan unrest or attendance issues) adds intrigue beyond just the match itself. If you’re into the politics and drama of international club football, there’s more here than just 90 minutes of play.