Gerard Butler recently attended the How to Train Your Dragon regional premiere in Riyadh, highlighting Saudi Arabia’s rapid cinematic rise since lifting its 2018 cinema ban. Butler praised the Kingdom’s hospitality and growing film industry, while reflecting on his role as Stoick the Vast, showcasing both a country and a character opening up to the world.
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Fresh doubts surround the 2024 US election as reports allege unannounced changes to voting machines approved by Pro V&V, a federally certified testing lab. Despite director Jack Cobb's insistence that updates were minor, watchdogs like SMART Elections claim inadequate testing raises security risks.
Ursula von der Leyen urged a diplomatic resolution to Iran's nuclear ambitions in a call with Benjamin Netanyahu, affirming Israel's right to self-defense. Speaking at the G7 summit, she highlighted Iran's role in regional instability and its support for Russia, noting the use of Iranian missiles in both Israel and Ukraine.
A significant 5.9 magnitude earthquake rattled Taiwan, with its epicenter south of Hualien City. Buildings in Taipei swayed for about a minute, but initial reports indicate no major damage. Situated on the Pacific "Ring of Fire," Taiwan is earthquake-prone, having learned from a devastating 1999 quake, implementing stricter building codes and public education.
Devastating floods in South Africa's Eastern Cape province have claimed 78 lives, with the toll expected to rise as search and rescue operations continue. President Cyril Ramaphosa is scheduled to visit the affected areas amid criticism of the government's response. Extreme weather triggered the disaster, overwhelming local resources and leaving residents traumatized by the loss and destruction.
Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir announced that Israel has effectively turned Iran's 'ring of fire' strategy against them, targeting Iranian assets within their own territory. Major General Shlomi Binder reported successful strikes against the Quds Force and Khatam al-Anbiya leadership, emphasising Israel's determination to neutralise threats and continue the campaign at full pace.
The IDF reported intercepting over 100 Iranian UAVs launched towards Israel, while Iranian security forces claimed to discover a secret Israeli drone factory within Iran. Israel's strikes targeted Iranian nuclear scientists, military officials, and weapon production sites, including those belonging to the Quds Force. Amidst the escalating conflict, Israeli citizens are advised to remain near shelters.
US President Donald Trump has extended the deadline for TikTok to operate in the United States by 90 days. This extension aims to allow more time for negotiating a deal for American ownership. This is the third time Trump has extended the deadline. The administration wants to ensure user data security.
Iran has launched a fresh wave of missile attacks targeting Israel, escalating the regional conflict. Iranian state media confirmed the offensive, reporting missile launches from Tehran and Kermanshah. In response, the Israeli military issued warnings, urging citizens to seek shelter as sirens blared across the country.