Japan’s H2A rocket retired after successful final launch

Hong Kong pop star Keung To’s recent stumble into the sea sparked a flood of mixed reactions online—some supportive, others downright cruel. Psychiatrists and cultural experts point out that this backlash highlights the tricky reality of social media for young celebrities: it’s a powerful tool for fan engagement but also exposes them to harsh, unfiltered criticism that stars of past generations never had to deal with.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just about one singer’s viral moment—it’s a snapshot of how social media amplifies both fame and scrutiny. For young artists, the same platforms that build their careers can also chip away at their mental health, raising bigger questions about how we engage with public figures in the digital age.

A disturbing twist has emerged in the unsolved case of 34 missing Filipino cockfighting workers, with a suspect alleging that police officers and a female celebrity played a role in their disappearances. The claim, which suggests a wider conspiracy involving up to 30 people, has reignited public outrage and scrutiny over a case that once gripped the nation.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just another cold case—it’s a flashpoint for deeper concerns about corruption and accountability in the Philippines. If police were involved, it undermines trust in the institutions meant to protect people. The reappearance of these allegations forces the public to confront uncomfortable questions: Who else knew? And why has justice been so hard to come by?

Local officials in China are steering clear of dining out, calling it a way to "play safe" amid the latest austerity campaign. But what’s meant as a cost-cutting measure has spiraled into something heavier—local rules that feel even stricter than what Beijing mandates. Some officials admit they’re making these lifestyle changes just to avoid scrutiny, even if it’s temporary.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just about skipping restaurant meals—it’s a glimpse into how China’s top-down policies often snowball into overzealous local enforcement. When officials themselves feel pressured to avoid simple social activities, it hints at a broader climate of caution that could ripple into everyday life for citizens too.

Iran's Foreign Ministry is pushing back against claims that its nuclear program is anything but peaceful, telling RT that it hasn't enriched uranium to weapons-grade levels. This comes after recent strikes by Israel and the US, which have raised tensions over Tehran's nuclear ambitions.

Editor’s Note: With the Middle East already on edge, Iran's denial of weapons-grade enrichment is a key talking point—but it's unlikely to ease suspicions from Western powers. The statement keeps the diplomatic ball in play, though trust remains in short supply.

A shocking drug bust in Mauritius led to the detention of a six-year-old British boy and several adults after airport authorities found 161 kg of cannabis hidden in their luggage, worth an estimated £1.6 million. The discovery was made at Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport, raising serious concerns about the exploitation of children in drug trafficking.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just another drug bust—it’s a disturbing example of how criminal networks might be using children as pawns in their operations. The involvement of a young boy adds a deeply troubling layer to the story, highlighting the ruthless tactics of traffickers and the urgent need for stronger protections for vulnerable minors caught in these schemes. It also puts a spotlight on Mauritius as a transit point for international drug smuggling.