Advocates applaud Halifax council’s move to restrict Dartmouth Cove infilling

UK house price growth has slowed significantly, with the average home price dropping by £794 to £298,184 in September. This follows a modest 1.3% annual increase, marking the weakest growth since April 2024. The cautious approach from buyers ahead of the upcoming budget reflects broader economic uncertainties, making it a critical moment for the housing market.

Halifax firefighters are demanding a leadership overhaul in their department, citing concerns that reported abuse has been overlooked. This call for change highlights the urgent need for accountability and reform within the firefighting community, as the well-being of both firefighters and the public is at stake.

The United Nations is set to reduce its global peacekeeping force by 25% due to funding cuts from the United States. This decision, influenced by President Trump's 'America First' policy, means that thousands of troops will be withdrawn from missions around the world. This reduction raises concerns about the effectiveness of peacekeeping efforts in conflict zones, highlighting the impact of political decisions on international stability.

In a lively session at Parliament House, Australian politicians Burke and Ley engaged in a heated debate regarding the support provided to women and children returning from detention in Syria. This discussion is significant as it highlights the ongoing political tensions surrounding immigration and humanitarian policies in Australia, reflecting broader societal concerns about how the government addresses the needs of vulnerable populations.

In a significant step towards peace, Israel and Hamas have agreed to a hostage release, marking a potential turning point in the two-year conflict in the Gaza Strip. This development is crucial as it aligns with President Trump's foreign-policy goal of ending the war, offering hope for a resolution and stability in the region.

In a significant development, US President Trump has announced that all hostages in Gaza will be released 'very soon,' and Israel is preparing to withdraw its troops to a designated line as part of a ceasefire agreement with Hamas. This news is crucial as it marks a potential turning point in the ongoing conflict, offering hope for peace and stability in the region. The involvement of the US in facilitating this process underscores the importance of international diplomacy in resolving such complex issues.

China has implemented new regulations requiring foreign organizations and individuals to secure a dual-use export license from its Ministry of Commerce before they can export rare-earth products and technologies. This move is significant as it could disrupt global supply chains and increase tensions in international trade, particularly affecting industries reliant on these critical materials.

In a shocking revelation at an ICAC hearing, Ibrahim Helmy, a bureaucrat from New South Wales, admitted to receiving envelopes of cash at Oporto to create fake invoices as part of a multimillion-dollar kickback scheme. This admission raises serious concerns about corruption within the transport sector and highlights the need for greater oversight and accountability in public spending. Such scandals not only undermine public trust but also divert essential resources from critical infrastructure projects.