Israel says it launched ‘special, targeted operations’ in southern Lebanon

The heads of the Chinese and Pakistani air forces met in Islamabad to discuss deepening military collaboration, particularly in training and technology. Pakistan’s Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu emphasized the need for stronger ties, while China’s Lieutenant General Wang Gang received a detailed briefing on potential areas of cooperation. The talks signal a push for tighter operational synergy between the two allies.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just routine diplomacy—it’s a reminder of how closely Pakistan and China are aligning on defense, especially as both nations face regional tensions (think India for Pakistan, U.S. pressure for China). For Pakistan, leaning into this partnership could mean better tech and training; for China, it’s another step in cementing influence. Worth watching if you’re tracking shifting power dynamics in Asia.

A new book by Japanese journalist Yoji Gomi reveals surprising details about Ko Yong-hui, the late mother of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. The book uncovers her family’s roots in Japan, including her father’s history as a smuggler who later fled to North Korea. These revelations are particularly sensitive because Kim Jong-un has worked hard to keep his family’s past—especially his mother’s background—under wraps.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just a historical deep dive—it’s a rare peek into the carefully guarded personal history of one of the world’s most secretive leaders. Understanding Kim Jong-un’s family background could offer clues about his motivations and the regime’s inner workings. Plus, it’s a reminder of how much North Korea’s leadership relies on controlling its own narrative.

Former U.S. President Donald Trump is escalating tensions with Brazil, threatening to slap a 50% tariff on the country if he returns to office. He’s also demanding an end to the legal proceedings against Brazil’s ex-president Jair Bolsonaro, calling the charges a "witch hunt." Trump claims Brazil is unfairly targeting U.S. tech companies, though he didn’t specify which ones or how.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just about trade—it’s a political flashpoint. Trump’s threats could strain diplomatic ties and rattle markets, especially if Brazil retaliates. The "witch hunt" rhetoric also mirrors his own legal battles, suggesting he sees Bolsonaro’s troubles as part of a broader fight against what he views as politically motivated prosecutions. For Brazil, this adds pressure to an already volatile situation, with Bolsonaro’s legal fate still uncertain.

Edmonton’s city council has wrapped up a hearing on infill development with some tweaks to the rules. The big changes? Stricter design regulations—like requiring more space between buildings (side setbacks) and limiting what can be built in side yards. The goal is to make room for things like stairwells, landings, and pathways, balancing denser housing with livability.

Editor’s Note: Infill projects—building new homes on existing lots—are a hot topic in fast-growing cities like Edmonton. These changes aim to curb cramped, poorly planned developments while still encouraging density. It’s a compromise: developers get clarity, neighbors get more breathing room, and the city tries to avoid becoming a patchwork of awkwardly squeezed-in houses. Not a revolution, but a step toward smarter growth.

The US has imposed sanctions on Francesca Albanese, a UN expert known for her criticism of Israel’s military actions in Gaza. Secretary of State Marco Rubio tied the decision to her backing of the International Criminal Court (ICC), which has been investigating alleged war crimes in the conflict.

Editor’s Note: This move signals escalating tensions between the US and international bodies like the ICC over the Gaza war. By targeting Albanese, the US is taking a hard stance against critics of Israel, which could further isolate Washington diplomatically—especially among allies who support the ICC’s independence. It’s another flashpoint in the broader debate over accountability in the conflict.