Caught in the crossfire - the victims of Cape Town's gang warfare

More young Chinese students are eyeing military academies, drawn by government perks like tuition subsidies and a surge in patriotic sentiment fueled by tensions with the U.S. The defense ministry's recent announcement about three new academies opening admissions this summer went viral on Weibo, racking up over 8 million views, with many users buzzing about the opportunity.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just about career choices—it’s a snapshot of how geopolitics and national pride are shaping young people’s ambitions. With China emphasizing military modernization and self-reliance, the enthusiasm for these academies signals a broader shift in priorities, both for the government and the next generation.

A prominent Labor figure, former senator Doug Cameron, has sharply criticized the Albanese government for backing US military strikes against Iran, suggesting Australia’s support is only happening because of the Aukus security pact. The comments add fuel to an already heated debate about Australia’s foreign policy alignment. Meanwhile, Foreign Minister Penny Wong’s recent remarks hint at ongoing tensions within the government over these decisions.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just insider political drama—it’s a sign of growing unease about how deeply Australia is tying itself to US military actions, especially under Aukus. With a former Labor heavyweight openly slamming the government, it raises questions about whether public and party support for these alliances is starting to crack. For everyday Australians, it’s a reminder that global conflicts can pull the country into fights it didn’t start, with consequences that aren’t always clear-cut.

Alibaba is combining its food delivery service (Ele.me) and travel booking platform (Fliggy) into its main e-commerce division, signaling a shift toward a more unified consumer experience. The company’s CEO framed this as a strategic pivot—not just tightening operations but also freeing up resources to double down on AI development.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just housekeeping—it’s a glimpse into how China’s tech giants are adapting. Alibaba’s move reflects broader industry trends: trimming peripheral ventures to focus on core strengths (like AI) while trying to create a one-stop-shop for consumers. For users, it could mean smoother integration between services; for competitors, it’s a reminder of Alibaba’s scale and agility.

Tensions between the U.S. and Iran are escalating after American strikes targeted Iran’s nuclear facilities, causing what’s being described as "monumental damage." While U.S. officials insist they’re "not at war with Iran," former President Trump has controversially floated the idea of regime change, echoing his old campaign slogan to "make Iran great again." Meanwhile, Iran’s foreign minister is in Moscow, likely seeking support from Putin as Tehran vows retaliation. The region is on edge, waiting to see how this dangerous standoff unfolds.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just another flare-up in the Middle East—it’s a high-stakes showdown with global implications. If Iran retaliates, it could drag the U.S. and its allies deeper into conflict, destabilizing an already volatile region. Trump’s rhetoric adds fuel to the fire, while Iran’s outreach to Russia signals a potential shift in alliances. For everyday people, this means heightened risks—from oil price spikes to the terrifying possibility of a wider war. Keep an eye on this one.

South Korea’s new president, Lee Jae-myung, is skipping this week’s NATO summit—unlike his predecessor, who attended three times in recent years. Analysts are split on whether it’s a practical move (given the Middle East crisis and his fresh administration) or a sign of Seoul rethinking its diplomatic priorities. Some see it as a subtle shift away from Yoon Suk-yeol’s pro-Western stance, but others caution against reading too much into one no-show.

Editor’s Note: South Korea’s absence at NATO isn’t just a scheduling conflict—it’s a small but telling move in the high-stakes game of global alliances. With tensions simmering in Asia and beyond, every diplomatic gesture gets scrutinized. Lee’s decision could hint at a quieter, more independent foreign policy—or just a president juggling too many crises at once. Either way, it’s a reminder that even skipped meetings send signals.