Military veterans now able to download digital ID card

Ken McCallum, the head of MI5, has expressed his frustration over the decision not to prosecute two Britons accused of spying for China. This situation highlights ongoing concerns about national security and the challenges faced in addressing espionage threats from Beijing. McCallum's determination to confront these issues underscores the importance of vigilance in protecting the UK from foreign interference.

Australia's high court has upheld the home affairs minister's decision to deny a visa to US right-wing commentator Candace Owens, citing character grounds for her planned speaking tour. This ruling is significant as it highlights the ongoing debate around free speech and the limits of immigration policies, particularly concerning controversial figures. The decision reflects Australia's stance on maintaining a certain standard for individuals entering the country, especially those with polarizing views.

Ofcom has declared that a BBC documentary about Gaza, aired earlier this year, constitutes a serious breach of broadcasting rules, labeling it as 'materially misleading.' This ruling is significant as it raises questions about media accountability and the standards of reporting on sensitive issues, particularly in conflict zones.

In a significant diplomatic move, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán is set to speak with Russian President Vladimir Putin, coinciding with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's discussions with former U.S. President Donald Trump. This meeting highlights the ongoing complexities of international relations in the region, especially as Ukraine faces intensified air assaults. The outcomes of these talks could influence the geopolitical landscape, particularly regarding support for Ukraine and the response to Russian aggression.

The ongoing discussions in the UK government regarding the ban on Maccabi Tel Aviv fans attending the upcoming match against Aston Villa highlight a significant controversy in international sports. Former Labour MP Zarah Sultana and others argue that Israeli teams should not participate in global competitions, which raises questions about the intersection of politics and sports. This situation matters as it reflects broader tensions and could set a precedent for how political issues influence sporting events.

The FTSE 100 is experiencing its worst day since April, driven by rising fears over bad loans in US regional banks, which have sent shockwaves through global markets. This decline is significant as it reflects broader concerns about financial stability, impacting investor confidence and leading to a drop in stock valuations across Europe and Asia. As markets react to these developments, gold prices are soaring, indicating a flight to safety among investors. This situation highlights the interconnectedness of global finance and the potential ripple effects of banking sector issues.

John Bolton, the former national security adviser to Donald Trump, is expected to surrender to authorities after being indicted on 18 counts by a federal grand jury in Maryland. This development comes amid a government shutdown, as the US Senate failed to pass funding measures, highlighting ongoing political turmoil. Bolton's indictment raises significant questions about accountability and the implications for Trump's administration, as the former president has publicly criticized Bolton, calling him a 'bad guy.' This situation underscores the complexities of US politics and the challenges facing the current administration.

In a shocking incident, Italian investigative journalist Sigfrido Ranucci was targeted in a bomb attack outside his home in Campo Ascolano. The explosion, caused by a rudimentary but powerful device, nearly destroyed his car and damaged a neighbor's property. This attack highlights the dangers faced by journalists in Italy, particularly those who expose corruption and wrongdoing. It raises serious concerns about press freedom and the safety of those who seek to uncover the truth.