Australia politics live: PM says welcome to country is a ‘powerful way’ to begin new parliament in great hall address

A British F-35B fighter jet that got stranded in India for weeks—spawning plenty of internet jokes—has finally taken off. The stealth aircraft landed in Kerala back in mid-June due to bad weather, then got grounded again by a technical glitch, turning its unplanned pit stop into a social media spectacle.

Editor’s Note: On the surface, this is just a quirky story about a high-tech jet stuck far from home, but it highlights how even cutting-edge military hardware isn’t immune to hiccups. The memes added a lighthearted twist, but the delay also quietly underscores the logistical headaches and diplomatic coordination behind moving sensitive equipment across borders. For defense watchers, it’s a reminder that tech fails happen—even to the fanciest toys.

China’s Ministry of State Security is warning travelers to think twice before accepting seemingly innocent souvenirs like keychains or jewelry from abroad—they might be hiding spy tech. The agency claims items like these could secretly record conversations, track movements, or even leak sensitive data, urging citizens to stay vigilant to protect national security.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just about paranoid travel tips—it reflects escalating global tensions around espionage and China’s tightening grip on security. Whether you see it as justified caution or overreach, it signals how deeply modern spy threats are creeping into everyday life, even through small gestures like gifts. For travelers or businesses, it’s a reminder that geopolitics can turn trinkets into Trojan horses.

India and the UK are finally closing in on a major free trade deal after three years of talks, with Prime Minister Modi and Britain’s Keir Starmer set to seal the agreement during Modi’s visit to London. Analysts see this as a big shift—India, known for its cautious approach to trade, is now signaling it’s ready to play ball with Western economies, even as global trade tensions heat up.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just about tariffs and exports—it’s a strategic move. If India, long seen as protectionist, is willing to lock in deals like this, it could pave the way for bigger agreements with the EU and US. That’s a win for businesses on all sides, but it also hints at how countries are scrambling to secure alliances in an increasingly fragmented global economy. Keep an eye on this one—it could set the tone for trade for years to come.

The Japan Times team has handpicked their top acts to catch at Fuji Rock 2025, giving festival-goers a curated list of must-see performances for the three-day event. Think of it as a backstage pass to the best vibes, hidden gems, and crowd-pleasers—so you don’t waste a minute of your weekend.

Editor’s Note: Fuji Rock is one of Asia’s biggest music festivals, and with so many acts playing across multiple stages, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. This guide helps fans cut through the noise and focus on the highlights, making sure they get the most out of their experience. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned attendee, these picks could shape your entire weekend.

Hong Kong's weather service is warning locals to brace for heavy downpours in certain parts of the city over the next few hours, thanks to a lingering low-pressure system. Some areas might get hit harder than others, so keep an umbrella handy.

Editor’s Note: While this isn’t a full-blown storm warning, sudden heavy rain can still disrupt commutes, cause flash flooding, or mess with outdoor plans. Given Hong Kong’s dense urban layout, even short bursts of intense rain can lead to slippery roads and delays—so it’s worth staying updated if you’re out and about.