A Sudanese-American poet, Emi Mahmoud, discusses the takeover of her hometown, El Fasher, by the Rapid Support Forces in Sudan. She talks about the impact of this event on her community and personal history.
Key Facts
Emi Mahmoud is a Sudanese-American poet.
Mahmoud's hometown, El Fasher, is located in Sudan.
The Rapid Support Forces, a group in Sudan, have taken control of El Fasher.
Mahmoud spoke about this event with NPR's Leila Fadel.
The poet shared how this takeover affects her and her community.
The conversation was part of NPR's Morning Edition program.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Hurricane Melissa, a strong storm in the Atlantic, hit eastern Cuba after causing damage in Jamaica. The hurricane brought powerful winds and flooding to both countries.
Key Facts
Hurricane Melissa is one of the strongest storms recorded in the Atlantic.
The hurricane made landfall in Cuba 14 hours after hitting Jamaica.
The storm brought strong winds and flooding to Jamaica before reaching Cuba.
Hurricane Melissa first affected Jamaica, causing significant damage.
It is a weather-related event impacting parts of the Caribbean.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Aid organizations are working to help people recover from Hurricane Melissa. NPR's Michel Martin talked with Dana Sacchetti from the World Food Programme about the recovery efforts in Jamaica.
Key Facts
Hurricane Melissa recently hit, causing damage and affecting many people.
Aid organizations are involved in recovery efforts to help survivors.
Michel Martin from NPR interviewed Dana Sacchetti from the World Food Programme.
The recovery efforts are focused on helping residents in Jamaica.
Dana Sacchetti is leading the World Food Programme's activities in the region.
The discussion was part of NPR's Morning Edition program.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered air strikes on Gaza. This happened shortly after a ceasefire deal was made. The situation puts the ceasefire, supported by President Trump, at risk.
Key Facts
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is behind the decision to carry out air strikes in Gaza.
The air strikes were ordered a few weeks into a ceasefire agreement.
Netanyahu claims the action is in response to an attack on Israeli troops.
Hamas denies attacking Israeli forces.
The ceasefire had support from President Donald Trump.
This development may jeopardize the current ceasefire agreement.
The situation is part of ongoing tensions between Israel and Gaza.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Hurricane Melissa hit eastern Cuba as a strong Category 3 storm. It caused severe weather threats, including heavy rain, potential flooding, and landslides in Cuba after impacting Jamaica. Thousands were evacuated, and there were deaths reported in the Caribbean.
Key Facts
Hurricane Melissa made landfall in eastern Cuba near Chivirico as a Category 3 storm.
It had sustained winds of 120 mph (193 kph) and was moving northeast.
Over 185 mph (295 kph) winds were recorded when it hit Jamaica.
Heavy rain, up to 20 inches, may lead to flooding and landslides in Cuba.
Cuban provinces impacted include Granma, Santiago de Cuba, Guantanamo, Holguin, and Las Tunas.
Seven deaths occurred in the Caribbean due to the storm: three in Jamaica, three in Haiti, and one in the Dominican Republic.
Jamaica reported significant damage, including power outages affecting over half a million customers.
Cuba's President Díaz-Canel assured full efforts to protect lives and resources.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Chinese coast guard ships traveled through important straits near Japan's main islands as part of a 31-day patrol. Japan monitored the ships closely using both sea and air surveillance. China's actions reflect its expanding maritime presence in the Pacific, highlighting tensions in the region.
Key Facts
Chinese coast guard ships passed through the Tsugaru Strait between Japan's Honshu and Hokkaido islands.
The Tsugaru Strait is a key waterway, connecting the Sea of Japan with the North Pacific.
Japan designated this strait as one of its international straits where territorial waters are narrower.
Japan's Self-Defense Forces conducted round-the-clock surveillance of the area.
Chinese vessels were on a 31-day patrol to protect fishery resources, starting from Shanghai and returning on October 10.
A Chinese military and media report showed the ships traveled around Japan, passing through the Tsushima Strait between Japan and South Korea.
The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea allows freedom of navigation in international waters, which China cited in its actions.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Researchers at the University of Birmingham found that certain foods and drinks high in flavanols, like tea and cocoa, may help reduce the health risks associated with sitting for long periods. The study involved 40 young men and showed that consuming high-flavanol cocoa helped maintain healthier blood vessel function during a two-hour sitting session.
Key Facts
Flavanols are natural compounds found in foods like tea, berries, apples, cocoa, and dark chocolate.
Prolonged sitting can increase the risk of heart disease and disrupt blood flow.
Eating or drinking flavanol-rich foods may protect blood vessels against sitting's harmful effects.
Flavanols boost the availability of nitric oxide, a molecule that helps relax and expand blood vessels.
The study involved 40 young men who drank either high-flavanol or low-flavanol cocoa.
Participants who consumed high-flavanol cocoa showed better blood vessel function after sitting.
Women were not included in this study due to potential hormonal influences, which may be researched later.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Two Polish fighter jets intercepted a Russian spy plane flying without an active transponder over the Baltic Sea. The Russian aircraft was on a reconnaissance mission and did not enter Polish airspace. The Polish military safely escorted the plane away from the area.
Key Facts
Poland intercepted a Russian Il-20 spy plane over the Baltic Sea.
The Russian plane flew without an active transponder.
A transponder helps identify and track an aircraft.
The Russian aircraft had not filed a flight plan.
Two Polish MiG-29 fighter jets were involved in the interception.
The Russian plane did not enter Polish territory.
The Baltic Sea is surrounded by NATO countries and Russia has a military presence there.
The operation was carried out safely by the Polish military.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Cameroon's Interior Minister announced legal action against opposition leader Issa Tchiroma Bakary, accusing him of inciting protests after the October election. The election, won by President Paul Biya, led to violent clashes with several protesters killed. Despite the unrest, Tchiroma Bakary claims he won the election and called the official results fraudulent.
Key Facts
Cameroon's election took place on 12 October, with President Paul Biya winning an eighth term.
The official results showed Biya receiving 53.7% of the vote, while opposition leader Issa Tchiroma Bakary got 35.2%.
The government accuses Tchiroma Bakary of inciting "violent post-election demonstrations" after the results.
At least four protesters died during clashes with security forces.
The international community, including the UN, African Union, and EU, has called for calm.
The Interior Minister claims Tchiroma Bakary's actions were part of an "insurrectionary plan."
Protests continue in parts of Cameroon, notably Douala and Garoua, with roadblocks and tyre burnings.
An investigation into the violence around the election has been announced by the government.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping are set to meet to discuss easing tensions between the U.S. and China. They are expected to agree on some measures to prevent further conflict, although many existing trade issues will continue. Talks will occur on the sidelines of the APEC summit in Gyeongju, South Korea.
Key Facts
President Trump and President Xi Jinping are meeting for the first time since 2019.
The two leaders aim to lower the rivalry between the U.S. and China during this meeting.
China plans to start export controls on rare earths from December 1.
Trump is expected to drop a proposed 100% tariff on Chinese goods.
China may increase its purchase of U.S. soybeans and help stop fentanyl chemical flow.
US-China trade tensions have led to high tariffs and restrictions for both countries.
Washington has restricted Chinese firms over national security concerns, and China has imposed controls and investigations on U.S. companies.
Declines in trade flows between the two countries have been noted, with specific falls in exports and imports.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
North Korea conducted tests of sea-to-surface cruise missiles, which it claims were successful, just as President Donald Trump visited South Korea. The missile tests were announced by North Korea hours before Trump was expected to meet with South Korean and possibly Chinese leaders. North Korea stated that the missiles expand its military capabilities, while Trump indicated a willingness to engage with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in the future.
Key Facts
North Korea tested sea-to-surface cruise missiles, claiming they flew over two hours and hit targets accurately.
The missile tests coincided with President Trump's visit to South Korea for political meetings.
South Korea and the U.S. monitored the missile tests and are assessing their capabilities.
North Korea's tests were attended by military officials and were part of an effort to strengthen its naval forces.
Trump downplayed the missile launches and expressed future interest in meeting Kim Jong Un.
North Korea has refused talks with the U.S. since previous diplomatic efforts stalled in 2019.
Kim Jong Un has shifted focus to Russia, providing military aid for its conflict in Ukraine, and expressed opposition to U.S. policies.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
North Korea launched sea-to-surface cruise missiles into its western waters just before President Trump arrived in South Korea. The missiles were tested as part of North Korea's efforts to develop its nuclear capabilities. President Trump is visiting South Korea to meet with regional leaders, including the potential for a meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.
Key Facts
North Korea launched several cruise missiles in the Yellow Sea, according to its state media.
The missiles flew for more than two hours and hit their targets precisely.
North Korea aims to develop its nuclear forces as a deterrent, according to military official Pak Jong Chon.
South Korea detected the missile launch and is analyzing the situation with the United States.
President Trump is in South Korea for meetings with regional leaders, including a scheduled summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping.
North Korea has avoided talks with the U.S. and South Korea since Kim Jong Un's diplomacy with Trump ended in 2019.
Before arriving in South Korea, President Trump met with families of Japanese people abducted by North Korea during his visit to Tokyo.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
A large police operation in Rio de Janeiro targeted a drug gang called the Red Command, resulting in at least 64 deaths and 81 arrests. The operation saw 2,500 police and soldiers use helicopters and armored vehicles to raid the favelas of Complexo do Alemao and Penha. The mission led to significant violence and has drawn calls for investigation from human rights groups.
Key Facts
The raid involved approximately 2,500 Brazilian police and soldiers.
At least 64 people died, including 60 criminal suspects and four police officers.
The operation led to the arrest of 81 suspects.
Police seized 93 rifles and over half a ton of drugs.
Human rights organizations have urged investigations into the deaths.
The United Nations expressed concern over the deadly nature of the operation.
The operation followed a year-long investigation into the Red Command gang.
The raid led to the closure of 46 schools and the cancelation of university night classes in Rio.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Fighting between Russia and Ukraine continues, with Russian attacks on Ukrainian regions leading to deaths and injuries. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed readiness for peace talks but insists no more Ukrainian territory will be given up. Talks are planned with European leaders, and President Zelenskyy has asked U.S. President Trump to pressure China regarding its support for Russia.
Key Facts
Russia launched 396 attacks in Ukraine's Zaporizhia region, causing one death and three injuries.
Russian attacks in Kherson region resulted in one death and six injuries.
Ukraine evacuated thousands from Kupiansk city due to advancing Russian forces.
Ukrainian attacks in Russian-occupied Kherson killed an 85-year-old woman.
Ukrainian drones disrupted air traffic near Moscow for three nights in a row.
Ukrainian forces killed one person in Russia's Bryansk region, with nearly 20 deaths reported in recent Ukrainian attacks on Russian territories.
President Zelenskyy announced willingness for peace talks but no territorial concessions.
Zelenskyy and European officials plan to discuss a ceasefire soon, focusing first on halting the fighting.
Ukrainian and U.S. officials urge China to stop supporting Russia.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Australian police report that online crime networks are targeting young Australian girls to commit violent acts. These networks use gaming and messaging platforms to recruit and manipulate girls, often without the girls fully understanding the situation. Authorities have set up a task force to work with international partners to address this issue.
Key Facts
Online crime gangs are targeting young Australian girls for violent acts.
The girls are recruited through platforms like Roblox, Discord, and Telegram.
The crime rings involve ideologies such as nihilism, sadism, Nazism, and satanism.
These actions are not motivated by money or sexual reasons but for amusement or popularity.
Around 60 suspects have been identified in Australia.
The Australian Federal Police are collaborating with other countries like the US, UK, New Zealand, and Canada.
Australia's new social media laws for under 16s come in December, but gaming platforms are not included.
Commissioner Krissy Barrett highlighted this issue in a recent speech.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Recent newspapers highlight Hurricane Melissa, which hit Jamaica with extreme winds and flooding. It is described as the strongest hurricane ever recorded in the Caribbean nation, causing significant worry about the danger it poses to people there. Additionally, the papers also pay tribute to actress Prunella Scales, known for her role in the sitcom Fawlty Towers, who has passed away.
Key Facts
Hurricane Melissa made landfall in Jamaica with 185mph winds.
It is the strongest hurricane recorded for Jamaica.
The hurricane is causing "catastrophic and life-threatening" flooding.
Thousands of people in Jamaica are not seeking shelter despite the storm.
Papers also report on the death of actress Prunella Scales.
Prunella Scales was famous for her role as Sybil Fawlty in Fawlty Towers.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
Talks between Pakistan and Afghanistan in Istanbul ended without progress, trying to ease tensions following recent border clashes. Discussions were aimed at maintaining a ceasefire reached earlier but failed mainly due to disputes over addressing the Pakistan Taliban (TTP) issue. Both countries accuse each other of not being cooperative in negotiations.
Key Facts
Talks took place in Istanbul over three days, mediated by Qatar and Türkiye.
A temporary ceasefire was previously achieved in Doha on October 19.
Pakistan demands Afghanistan crack down on the Pakistan Taliban (TTP).
Afghanistan accuses Pakistan of poor coordination during talks.
Cross-border violence has resulted in deaths and injuries on both sides.
President Donald Trump expressed willingness to resolve the crisis quickly.
Historical tensions and mutual mistrust hinder long-term solutions.
The TTP is ideologically aligned with the Afghan Taliban but operates independently.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
An 80-year-old woman, part of a cruise group, was left on Lizard Island in Australia's Great Barrier Reef. After a search, her body was found on Sunday morning. Authorities are investigating what happened.
Key Facts
The woman was an 80-year-old passenger on the Coral Adventurer cruise ship.
She was last seen hiking on Lizard Island, which is north of Cairns, Australia.
The ship left the island around sunset and returned hours later when the crew realized she was missing.
The Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) is investigating the incident.
A search operation began Saturday night and found her body Sunday morning.
The woman was on the first stop of a 60-day cruise around Australia.
Queensland police stated the death was sudden and non-suspicious.
The cruise line reached out to her family to offer support.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
A woman, referred to as "Sarah" for privacy, asked the police to inform her about her boyfriend's violent past under Clare's Law, a policy allowing individuals to request information about a partner's history of abuse. The police initially told her there was nothing to disclose, but later revealed that her boyfriend had previously strangled partners. She experienced abuse before the police provided the correct information.
Key Facts
Sarah was concerned about her boyfriend's behavior and asked the police for information about his past under Clare's Law.
Clare's Law allows people to check if their partner has a history of violence.
Police should respond to these requests within 28 days, according to government guidelines.
Sarah was initially told by police there was no abusive history to disclose.
Five months later, police informed her about her boyfriend's past violence.
Sarah experienced abuse from her boyfriend while waiting for the correct information.
Data suggests some police forces in England and Wales frequently miss the 28-day response deadline.
Several police forces revealed delays in responding to such requests, sometimes exceeding two years.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
A BBC investigation uncovered illegal teeth-whitening treatments being sold in the UK. Some products have unsafe levels of bleaching agents and are being sold in non-professional settings like car parks. The investigation revealed potential harm to users, including severe dental damage.
Key Facts
The investigation found teeth-whitening kits being sold illegally in car parks and on social media.
Some products tested had up to 53% hydrogen peroxide, far above the legal limit.
UK law permits teeth-whitening products with more than 0.1% hydrogen peroxide to be used only by dental professionals.
A BBC reporter obtained a fake teeth-whitening qualification to expose the illegal practice.
A treatment using excessive bleaching agents left one woman, Kellie Howson, with severe dental damage and the loss of four teeth.
The BBC found beauticians in the Manchester and Merseyside areas selling highly concentrated bleaching kits online.
Products sold illegally included syringes of gel without safety instructions or professional guidelines.
Read the Original
Want the full story? Tap a source to open the original
article.
