Israeli strike hits Beirut waterfront near tents of displaced
At least six people are dead from an Israeli strike on Beirut’s Ramlet al-Baida seafront. [Continue Reading]
Atlassian cuts hundreds of Australian jobs as AI slashes labour needs
Atlassian's Australian workforce will account for 30 per cent of the tech giant's global job cuts, with the freed-up funds to be invested in AI and enterprise sales. [Continue Reading]
Major regional city backs compulsory voting for WA's council elections
Councillors in one of WA's biggest regional cities back making voting at local government elections compulsory, amid growing concerns about low turnout and fringe candidates running for councils across the state. [Continue Reading]
Multi-car crash on major bridge injures 10, shuts Hong Kong airport-bound lanes
More than 10 cars collided on a major bridge on Thursday morning, injuring 10 people and resulting in the closure of most lanes leading to the Hong Kong airport. Hong Kong police said they received a report about the crash on Tsing Ma Bridge at 8.31am, adding that 10 people were slightly injured. Photographs from the scene show at least one vehicle flipped onto its side. The Transport Department said at 9.35am that the lower deck of the bridge had been reopened to drivers, while some... [Continue Reading]
Iran’s authorities warn against protests as Israel threatens Basij forces
Police chief says protesters seen as acting at the behest of the US and Israel will be treated as enemies. [Continue Reading]
Graham A. Harris, a giant of the Hong Kong Bar
The Hong Kong Bar Association was founded in 1949. To properly recognise barristers who have made a lasting and very significant contribution, members are able to nominate such giants for Life Membership. It is bestowed on those who “have rendered outstanding service to the Bar … or to the administration of justice in Hong Kong”. Over the years, only a handful of our members have been elected as Life Members. Nominees must be proposed by 20 members, including no fewer than 10 senior counsel, and... [Continue Reading]
To make AI safe, put women and girls at the heart of the technology
In late February, Hong Kong’s Office of the Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data co-signed, alongside 60 overseas organisations, a statement to bring attention to the rising misuse of deepfakes. With rapid technological developments, growing AI integration and lower barriers to access, swift action is needed to safeguard women and girls against growing forms of technology-facilitated violence. Technology-facilitated violence is not new; it has simply evolved. What began as pre-internet... [Continue Reading]
The scale of northern Australia’s record-breaking floods revealed in data and maps
Some river levels are still increasing after parts of Queensland recorded their highest three-day rainfall totalsFollow our Australia news live blog for latest updatesGet our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcastDozens of sites across northern Australia have been subjected to major flooding over the past couple of days, with some river levels still increasing after parts of Queensland recorded their highest three-day rainfall totals between Sunday and Tuesday.The map below shows the status for the more than 90 monitoring stations (many of them at different points along the same rivers) across New South Wales, the Northern Territory... [Continue Reading]
Two dead after boat capsizes at river bar crossing on NSW North Coast
A man and woman have died and another person is in hospital after a boat capsized near the Yamba breakwater. [Continue Reading]
Breaking: Mother sentenced for 17 years for criminal neglect of children
A mother who admitted to criminally neglecting three of her children, including her daughter who died when she was six-years-old, has been jailed for 17 years. [Continue Reading]
Emergency services conduct helicopter rescues in Katherine amid severe flooding and crocodile threats
In a dramatic response to a severe flooding event, emergency services undertook a helicopter rescue operation in Katherine, where individuals were trapped in waters populated by crocodiles. The rescue operation occurred on Wednesday, as flood levels in Katherine saw a minor reduction, currently reported at 16.3 meters and falling. However, the situation is exacerbated to the south, where the Daly River/Nauiyu area is grappling with the second-worst flood on record. The incident highlights the escalating dangers posed by the ongoing floods, prompting emergency services to issue warnings against driving through flooded areas. The current rescue success underscores the urgency of... [Continue Reading]
René Redzepi Steps Down at Noma Amid Allegations of Past Abuse
After 23 years running the Copenhagen restaurant, widely considered one of the most innovative and important in the world, the chef is leaving. [Continue Reading]
US launches probe into trading partners including the EU, China and India
The move comes weeks after the US Supreme Court struck down a key part of Trump's tariffs policies. [Continue Reading]
UK Met Office issues yellow warnings for strong winds across northern regions ahead of cold front
The UK is bracing for significant weather changes as the Met Office has issued yellow warnings for strong winds affecting northern regions, including Scotland, Northern Ireland, northern England, North Wales, and the north Midlands. These warnings coincide with a cold front that is set to move southwards throughout the day. The strongest winds are expected to commence ahead of this incoming cold front, potentially leading to transport disruptions. According to the Met Office, the warnings began on Thursday, with locals advised to remain vigilant as gusts could pose hazards. The weather system is anticipated to bring heavy rain followed by... [Continue Reading]
Meta disables 150,000 accounts in global sting on Southeast Asian scam centres
Meta disabled more than 150,000 accounts and Thai police arrested 21 people in a sweeping international crackdown on Southeast Asian criminal scam centres that targeted people around the world, the social media giant said on Wednesday. The operation was led by Thailand’s Royal Thai Police Anti-Cyber Scam Centre alongside the FBI and the US Justice Department’s Scam Centre Strike Force, with Meta investigators acting on intelligence shared in real time by law enforcement. Online scam networks –... [Continue Reading]
Republican candidate Blake Miguez faces scrutiny over 2007 rape allegation amid concerns about vetting process for endorsements
Blake Miguez, a Republican congressional candidate from Louisiana endorsed by former President Donald Trump, is facing scrutiny following revelations of a rape allegation dating back to 2007. This allegation was reported to local law enforcement on the same day as the incident but remained largely undisclosed until now. As Miguez rises in the Louisiana Republican Party, these past accusations are fueling concerns within the White House regarding the vetting process that led to his endorsement. The allegations against Miguez were made by a woman who referred to him as a "live-in ex-boyfriend" at the time of the alleged assault. Although... [Continue Reading]
Israel Imposes Closure on Al-Aqsa Mosque, Prompting Condemnation from Eight Nations During Ramadan
Over the past two weeks, Israel has imposed a closure on the Al-Aqsa Mosque, severely restricting access to one of Islam's holiest sites during the significant month of Ramadan. This action has drawn sharp condemnation from eight nations, including Qatar, Jordan, Indonesia, Turkiye, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and the United Arab Emirates. The collective statement from these nations highlights the ongoing tensions surrounding the control and status of religious sites in Jerusalem. The frequent closures of Al-Aqsa Mosque, particularly during periods of heightened religious observance, have long been a source of contention. For twelve consecutive days, the mosque and its... [Continue Reading]
Iran’s sea mines raise fears of Strait of Hormuz oil disruption
Tehran may seek to choke off oil traffic through the vital Strait of Hormuz following US and Israeli strikes on Iran, raising fears it could deploy sea mines, officials say. President Donald Trump said US forces struck 28 Iranian mine-laying vessels as concerns grow over threats to the strategic shipping lane. [Continue Reading]
‘Cyber confession room’ where China youth share struggles like financial problems gains traction
At first glance, it is just a photograph of an empty room. But on mainland social media, it has become something else entirely: a virtual confessional. Beneath such posts, users anonymously unburden themselves to strangers, sharing the guilt, anxiety and struggles they cannot voice to family or friends. Traditionally, the confessional in Christianity is a space where believers admit their sins to a priest and seek absolution. Such so-called cyber confession rooms have recently surged in... [Continue Reading]
Is Beijing stepping up island building in South China Sea after 10-year pause?
China has significantly stepped up its land reclamation activities on a disputed shoal in the South China Sea, according to satellite images. One image, reportedly taken on Monday, suggested that the surface area of Antelope Reef, once a mostly submerged feature in the Paracel Islands, had expanded substantially. The picture, published on social media by Damien Symon, a researcher with global intelligence research network The Intel Lab, also showed more than 30 vessels, believed to be dredgers... [Continue Reading]
John Carpenter’s Toxic Commando review – from the director of The Thing
If you’re a fan of old school 80s horror and sci-fi movies, you’ll know exactly who John Carpenter is and so you’ll probably also appreciate this Xbox 360 era action throwback. [Continue Reading]
US lawmakers probe Epstein’s wealth as ex-accountant testifies on finances and ties
US House lawmakers on Wednesday examined Jeffrey Epstein’s financial empire as a committee questioned his former accountant in a closed-door deposition. Richard Kahn, an executor of Epstein’s estate, told lawmakers he had not seen evidence of abuse but described how the financier accumulated hundreds of millions and cultivated ties with powerful figures. [Continue Reading]
Israel Bombards Lebanese Capital in Latest Round of Strikes
Lebanon’s health ministry said at least seven people were killed in the Beirut attacks early Thursday. [Continue Reading]
Wind warnings issued as colder weather and mountain snow head south
Strong winds are likely across many parts of the UK and conditions are turning colder towards the end of the week. [Continue Reading]
Beth Mooney sold for record fee in Women's Hundred
Australia's evergreen run machine Beth Mooney has cashed in on her enduring excellence, scooping a joint-record payday of $395,000 in the auction for The Women's Hundred. [Continue Reading]
Qatar PM urges resilience and unity amid Iran strikes
Qatar’s Prime Minister calls for strengthening the country’s ability to withstand “hardship” amid regional war. [Continue Reading]
Kanye West ordered to pay $140K in Malibu mansion renovation lawsuit
A handyman had sought $1.7m (£1.267m) from the rapper over claims of unpaid work, medical expenses and being unfairly fired. [Continue Reading]
Trump-endorsed Republican in Louisiana accused of rape in 2007
Blake Miguez, 44, not criminally charged over allegation reported to local police but never disclosed to publicA Louisiana Republican congressional candidate endorsed by Donald Trump was the subject of a 2007 rape accusation that was reported to local law enforcement the same day of the alleged assault – but never disclosed to the public or, reportedly, the president’s team as he became one of the rising stars in the state’s Republican party.That has raised concerns within the White House that Blake Miguez “either wasn’t fully vetted or wasn’t forthcoming about discoverable documents from his past” before securing Trump’s backing, the... [Continue Reading]
How will Hong Kong follow mainland China’s ethnic unity promotion law?
Hong Kong should step up education on Chinese history and culture while highlighting security threats to cultivate public awareness about the need to defend the country, experts have said, as the nation’s legislature is set to pass a law promoting ethnic unity. The expert’s comments came ahead of the closing session of the 14th National People’s Congress (NPC) on Thursday, which is due to pass the Law on Promoting Ethnic Unity and Progress. The law aims to forge a strong “sense of community for... [Continue Reading]
'Premier League elite suffer rude awakening in Europe'
Chief football writer Phil McNulty examines the state of the Premier League after a disappointing week in Europe for all six of its clubs. [Continue Reading]
'Freight train' earthquake triggers precautionary checks at major dams
Two major regional NSW water storages will be inspected today following a magnitude-4.4 earthquake north of Canberra overnight. [Continue Reading]
Breaking: Woman and child found dead in Logan, man assisting police
After speaking with a wounded man at a supermarket in Logan about 7:30 this morning, police attended a nearby address and found the bodies of a woman and child. [Continue Reading]
International firms evacuate staff and close offices in Gulf amid rising Iran-related threats to US and Israel-linked businesses
In response to escalating threats from Iran targeting US- and Israel-linked economic establishments in the Gulf, several major international banking, finance, and consultancy firms have initiated evacuations of their staff and closures of offices across the region. This move highlights the geopolitical tensions brewing in the Middle East and their impact on global business operations. Reports indicate that groups such as Citi, a prominent American financial institution, and Deloitte, a leading British consultancy, closed their offices in Dubai's financial centre. This follows Iran's warning against threats to its sovereignty and security interests, particularly those associated with US and Israeli interests... [Continue Reading]
King penguins on Crozet Islands are breeding earlier and achieving higher success rates due to changing environmental conditions
Recent reports indicate that King penguins on the Crozet Islands are now breeding earlier and achieving higher success rates compared to two decades ago. This phenomenon, noted by researchers studying these unique birds, appears to be a direct response to changing environmental conditions and food availability in their habitat. Over the last 24 years, observations of the breeding patterns of King penguins have illustrated a notable shift. In earlier breeding seasons, the challenges faced by these animals were more pronounced. However, today's data suggests that not only are these penguins breeding earlier, but they are also experiencing better reproductive success.... [Continue Reading]
Israel bombards Beirut suburbs and southern Lebanon as conflict with Hezbollah escalates
Hezbollah and Iran had launched joint attack on more than 50 targets including Israeli military basesMiddle East live – latest updatesIsraeli warplanes bombarded Beirut’s southern suburbs and southern Lebanon after Hezbollah launched drones and rockets at northern Israel on Wednesday night in a sharp escalation of the 10-day conflict.Hezbollah let off successive volleys of rockets and drone swarms at Israel on Wednesday night, injuring two people, with most of the projectiles either being intercepted or falling into open areas. Continue reading... [Continue Reading]
US to release 172 million barrels of oil from strategic reserve to address rising prices amid ongoing conflict in the Middle East
The United States has announced that it will release 172 million barrels of oil from its strategic petroleum reserve. This decision, according to US Energy Secretary Chris Wright, is part of a larger strategy to combat soaring oil prices exacerbated by the ongoing conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran. Wright indicated that this release is part of a coordinated move involving the 32-member International Energy Agency, which has agreed to release a total of 400 million barrels. The oil release is expected to begin next week and will take an estimated 120 days to complete. Wright stated that... [Continue Reading]
Newborn and woman in hospital after baby found in Melbourne yard
Police are investigating after a resident found the baby in Keilor Downs this morning. [Continue Reading]
Chopper rescues pair and dog from croc-inhabited floodwaters in Katherine
Authorities are emphasising warnings not to drive in floodwaters, as dramatic vision emerges of a driver, passenger and dog stranded in rushing water in Katherine being winched to safety by a helicopter. [Continue Reading]
Epstein used modelling agent to recruit girls, Brazilian women tell BBC
Modelling agent used businesses to recruit girls and arrange US visas to visit Jeffrey Epstein, Brazilian women tell BBC. [Continue Reading]
UN Security Council passes resolution demanding Iran stop attacks on Gulf nations
In a significant development, the UN Security Council has passed a resolution demanding that Iran cease its attacks on Gulf nations. The resolution, which garnered 13 votes in favor and saw two abstentions, specifically calls for an immediate halt to all assaults by the Islamic Republic on Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Jordan. This directive comes amid escalating tensions in the region, particularly as Iran has been retaliating against perceived threats from US and Israeli military actions. The resolution has been framed as a response to Iran's increasing aggressiveness, which includes using military tactics... [Continue Reading]
Why Namibia's green energy dream could be a red flag for penguins
A near pristine desert and coastal wilderness in Namibia could soon host a huge hydrogen production facility. [Continue Reading]
Eight Arab, Islamic countries condemn Israeli closure of Al-Aqsa Mosque
For the past 12 days, Israel has closed Al-Aqsa Mosque and restricted movement in the Old City of Jerusalem. [Continue Reading]
Inquiry into student loans launched by MPs
The Treasury Committee will look at whether "the goalposts [have] been moved in a way which is unfair". [Continue Reading]
Queensland aviation operator charged over alleged people-smuggling flight
The Australian Federal Police was alerted to the alleged people smuggling operation when two wanted Sydney men landed in Indonesia in a light aircraft. [Continue Reading]
Hundreds of GPs tell BBC they have never refused a sick note over mental health concerns
The number of fit notes issued has been rising, with more than 11.2m approved in England last year. [Continue Reading]
Social media firms asked to toughen up age checks for under-13s
Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, YouTube and Roblox are among the platforms UK regulators say aren't putting children's safety at the heart of their products. [Continue Reading]
‘Convincing’ AI scams drove UK fraud cases to record 444,000 last year
Criminals using artificial intelligence tools to take over mobile, bank and online shopping accounts, says CifasCriminals are increasingly exploiting AI technology to take over people’s mobile, banking and online shopping accounts, the UK’s leading anti-fraud body has warned.Last year, a record number of scams were reported to the national fraud database, fuelled by AI, which allows for large-scale deception on “industrialised” levels, according to Cifas, the fraud prevention organisation. Continue reading... [Continue Reading]
Daily horoscope March 12, 2026: Today’s predictions for your star sign
The Moon in Capricorn is aligned with Neptune in Aries, making for a complex blend of rationality and excitement. [Continue Reading]
