An election in eastern Germany’s Saxony-Anhalt state could result in the country’s first far-right governor since World War II. The anti-immigration party Alternative for Germany (AfD) is leading in polls, challenging Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s ruling Christian Democratic Union in a region with economic difficulties.
Key Facts
The election takes place in Saxony-Anhalt, a state in eastern Germany with about 2.1 million people.
The AfD party, known for opposing migration, is leading in polls for this state’s upcoming vote.
If AfD wins, it would be the first time a far-right party governs a German state in modern history.
Chancellor Friedrich Merz and his Christian Democratic Union have led Saxony-Anhalt since 2002.
AfD became Germany’s largest opposition party in last year’s national election with 20.8% of the vote.
The AfD’s strength is particularly notable in eastern Germany, which includes former communist regions.
Experts say an AfD win would break a long-standing taboo in German politics.
The election result may reflect public dissatisfaction with Merz’s national government.
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Heavy flooding caused by a collapsing glacier in the Himalayan region has killed at least 903 people in Nepal and 16 in Tibet, with thousands more missing. Rescue teams from Nepal and other countries are searching for survivors, including about 90 people trapped inside hydropower tunnels.
Key Facts
A glacier collapse triggered the flooding on August 28, 2026, causing a big landslide and river swelling.
The flooding destroyed buildings, bridges, and roads in Nepal and Tibet near the Himalayas.
Nepal’s death toll is 903, with 4,247 people missing, including 592 foreigners.
Tibet reported 16 deaths and 546 missing, including many foreigners and Nepalese.
About 90 people remain trapped inside tunnels at hydropower plants.
Rescue operations have been ongoing for four days with help from foreign teams.
The glacier collapse caused a seismic event measuring magnitude 5.2.
A major highway in Nepal was washed away, cutting off some districts from neighboring areas.
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Police in New South Wales found the body of a newborn baby boy in a rubbish bin in Auburn, Sydney. They are searching for the baby’s mother, who they say needs urgent medical care.
Key Facts
The baby’s body was found on Monday morning at 11:20 am in a rubbish bin on Harrow Road, Auburn.
Emergency services and police officers responded quickly to the scene.
A crime scene has been set up, and detectives have started investigating.
Police are very worried about the health and safety of the baby’s mother.
The mother is urged to go to the nearest hospital for urgent care.
Authorities are asking the public for any information or video footage that could help.
People can contact Auburn police station or Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000.
Police planned to hold a press conference later the same day at 4 pm AEST.
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Nepal is burying hundreds of people killed by a huge flood that hit the Himalayan border with Tibet. The flood has killed over 900 people, and thousands, including many workers at hydropower plants, are still missing in Nepal and China.
Key Facts
Over 900 people have died in flooding along the Nepal-Tibet border.
Authorities are searching for more than 4,000 missing people in the area.
Among the missing are 933 workers from hydropower plants in Nepal.
Chinese officials reported 16 deaths and 546 people missing due to the floods.
The disaster started after a glacier collapsed high in the Himalayas, causing a massive flood.
The flood carried ice, rocks, and debris, destroying villages and sweeping people away.
Rescue efforts are ongoing but are slowed by bad weather and flooding.
Some of the missing people are foreigners, including many Nepalis working abroad.
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Over the weekend, severe flash floods caused by a collapsing glacier in the Himalayas struck villages in Nepal and Tibet, killing at least 903 people and leaving more than 4,000 missing. Rescue teams are working to save survivors trapped by mud and debris, while experts warn such disasters may become more frequent due to climate change and melting glaciers.
Key Facts
A large piece of glacier ice broke off in the Himalayas on Wednesday morning, triggering an avalanche of ice and rock.
The avalanche caused flash floods that destroyed villages and infrastructure near the Nepal-Tibet border.
At least 903 people have died, and over 4,000 are reported missing from the disaster.
Many survivors remain stranded on rooftops or trapped underground where rescuers cannot easily reach them.
Early satellite images were unclear due to dust, initially leading scientists to suspect an earthquake instead of glacier collapse.
The Nepali army is leading rescue operations, clearing roads and searching for survivors.
This disaster highlights risks linked to climate change, including faster glacier melting and increased flooding.
A headteacher saved 900 children by evacuating them just before the flood hit their town.
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The long-running Scottish TV show River City is ending after 24 years, with its final episode airing soon. The show’s writer and cast shared thoughts about the finale, which features intense scenes including a fire and focuses on a key villain, Lenny Murdoch.
Key Facts
River City has been on air for 24 years and is now ending.
Johnny McKnight, a writer for the show for nearly 10 years, wrote the final episode.
The last episode will include dramatic moments like a fire and show the villain Lenny Murdoch, played by Frank Gallagher.
The show is known for mixing drama with humor, representing Scottish life.
Grant Stott, who played Sam Spiller, joined River City despite limited TV drama experience.
Jenny Hulse, who has played Amber for 10 years, highlighted the show’s fast filming pace and strong production schedule.
River City has served as a training ground for many TV industry professionals, including actors, writers, and crew.
Some cast members have moved on to directing and writing within the show, showing its role in developing talent.
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A new report says coral reefs are bleaching more often and cannot recover before the next event. Coral cover worldwide has dropped sharply and could suffer permanent damage if current trends continue.
Key Facts
Coral bleaching happens when corals lose algae that give them color and food.
Bleached corals are not dead but need cooler water and time to recover.
The frequency of coral bleaching events has roughly doubled recently.
Coral reefs stayed mostly stable for 40 years until about 2010, then declined steeply.
In 2023, coral bleaching affected 77% of coral reef areas globally, the worst on record.
Scientists warn that another major bleaching event is very likely this year due to warm ocean temperatures.
Coral reefs cover less than 1% of the ocean floor but support over 25% of marine life.
The Pacific Islands Forum, which discusses climate and ocean issues, is seeing reduced attendance by some member leaders.
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Russian missile strikes have destroyed large parts of Ukraine's book printing and cultural sites ahead of the new school year. Around 12 million books have been destroyed, and important cultural heritage sites, including the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra monastery, have been damaged.
Key Facts
Russian attacks hit printing presses and publishing houses across Ukraine.
12 million books were destroyed, which is about one third of Ukraine's printed books this year.
A Kyiv printing press that supplied 10% of schoolbooks was completely destroyed.
Kyiv's Pochaina second-hand book market was also damaged, losing many books.
Cultural sites like museums, art galleries, and opera houses have been hit.
The Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra monastery suffered roof damage from a drone attack.
Repairs to the monastery’s roof are expected to cost $11.2 million and take two years.
UNESCO condemned the attacks and listed the monastery as a world heritage site in danger.
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Climate change is affecting the world unevenly, with wealthier countries better able to handle extreme events like wildfires, while poorer countries experience greater damage and loss. Recent disasters, such as deadly floods in Nepal and heat waves in India, highlight the growing challenges faced by vulnerable communities with fewer resources.
Key Facts
Nepal experienced severe floods that killed over 750 people, with thousands still missing.
The cost to rebuild Nepal’s flood damage could be about $5 billion, around one-tenth of its economy.
European countries like France and the UK have provided financial aid and support to help communities recover from wildfires.
Wealthier countries use advanced technology, like AI-powered wildfire insurance, to manage climate risks.
Coral reef destruction impacts coastal economies, such as Jamaica, by reducing marine life and increasing storm damage.
Warmer temperatures cause more frequent and deadly heat waves, for example in India, where thousands of heat-related deaths were recorded recently.
Poorer regions face greater climate risks due to limited access to shelter, cooling, and fresh water.
These vulnerable areas, called “climate hotspots,” combine strong climate effects with poverty and limited resources.
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A British documentary reveals that the UK government forced around 250,000 unmarried women to give up their babies for adoption. The film shares the stories of the affected mothers to highlight this forced adoption scandal.
Key Facts
The British state forced 250,000 unmarried women to give up their babies.
The documentary is told mainly by the mothers who experienced the forced adoptions.
It exposes a widespread scandal involving forced adoptions in the UK.
The documentary aims to reveal the scale and impact of these adoptions.
It was first shown on September 1, 2026, and is available for 11 months.
The program may contain upsetting scenes and covers sensitive topics like abuse.
Support information related to the issues discussed is available through the BBC website.
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Leaders from China, Russia, India, and other countries are meeting in Kyrgyzstan for a summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), which aims to offer an alternative to U.S. global influence. The group was founded in 2001 for regional security and now includes 10 countries, with the leaders holding talks to strengthen cooperation amid tensions with Western nations.
Key Facts
The SCO summit is taking place in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan.
Chinese President Xi Jinping, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi are attending.
Russia and Iran, both involved in conflicts against Western countries, see the summit as a chance to build non-Western partnerships.
The SCO began in 2001 with China, Russia, and four Central Asian countries as a security forum.
The organization now has 10 member countries, including Pakistan, Belarus, and Iran.
China and Russia promote the SCO as an alternative to Western groups like the G7.
The SCO focuses on regional cooperation but does not act as a unified political or military alliance.
Some leaders use the summit to show they keep strong global relationships despite worsening ties with the West.
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This article lists new entertainment options available for streaming from August 31 to September 6. It highlights movies like "Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu" on Disney+, the return of the "Scary Movie" series on Paramount+, and new music albums from Ellie Goulding and Natalie Imbruglia.
Key Facts
"Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu" will stream on Disney+ starting Wednesday.
The latest "Scary Movie," featuring the return of the Wayans family, will stream on Paramount+ Thursday.
"The Runner," an action thriller starring Gal Gadot, premieres Wednesday on Prime Video.
Ellie Goulding releases her sixth album, "I Know Too Much," on Friday with diverse songs ranging from synth-pop to acoustic ballads.
Natalie Imbruglia releases her seventh album, "Algorithm," also on Friday, featuring dreamy guitar pop.
The article includes reviews noting that "The Mandalorian and Grogu" uses heavy computer effects and that "Scary Movie" mixes skits on horror and current events.
New series and other entertainment options are also mentioned but not fully detailed in the excerpt.
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In Nepal’s Nuwakot district, people are returning to their homes damaged by flash floods caused by a glacier collapse. The disaster has killed at least 781 people and over 2,500 are still missing as rescue efforts continue.
Key Facts
A glacier collapse triggered flash floods in Nepal’s mountain valleys.
At least 781 people have died due to the floods.
More than 2,500 people are reported missing.
The disaster mainly affected the Nuwakot district.
Survivors are searching through mud and debris for their belongings.
Rescue and recovery operations are ongoing in the affected areas.
The floods caused significant damage to homes and property.
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Leaders from Russia, China, and other countries are meeting in Kyrgyzstan for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit. The group focuses on economic and political cooperation, and this summit highlights their shared views on global issues and relations with the West.
Key Facts
The SCO annual summit is taking place in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan.
Russia’s President Putin and China’s President Xi Jinping are attending, along with more than a dozen other leaders.
The SCO focuses on economic cooperation but also discusses political issues like global power balance.
Iran joined the SCO in 2023 and is attending; Turkey is participating as a dialogue partner but is not a full member.
India and Pakistan, both full SCO members, are expected to attend.
The SCO represents about 40% of the world’s population and 25% of global GDP.
The meeting occurs after the US Treasury Secretary criticized China’s large trade surplus and plans talks with Chinese officials.
This year marks the 25th anniversary of the SCO’s founding.
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A Russian drone hit an ammunition depot near the village of Myla, close to Kyiv, causing heavy damage to homes and killing 38 people, including many from a nearby care home. Local residents are upset that weapons were stored so close to their homes, which led to dangerous explosions and destruction.
Key Facts
A drone strike targeted an ammunition dump in Myla, 15 miles from Kyiv.
The strike caused multiple explosions over about six hours.
Thirty-eight people died, and four are missing after the attack.
Many homes, gardens, and greenhouses near the depot were damaged.
Residents said they were unaware that ammunition was stored nearby.
Dangerous munitions like mines, rocket shells, and bullets were found on residents’ properties.
Ukrainian emergency teams are cleaning up the site amid ongoing drone threats.
Ukraine’s intelligence services have opened an investigation into the location of the depot and the resulting deaths.
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The article invites readers to send questions and comments about political topics to the hosts of the Politics Weekly podcast. It does not provide specific political news but encourages audience engagement on subjects like the UK's possible rejoining of the European Union, donors to Burnham, and the bedroom tax.
Key Facts
The Politics Weekly podcast covers various political topics.
Listeners can send questions or comments to the hosts via email.
The topics mentioned include the UK rejoining the EU, donations related to Burnham, and the bedroom tax.
The article includes a photo credited to WPA/Getty Images.
No detailed news or updates are provided in this article itself.
The focus is on audience interaction and political discussion.
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Leaders from small Pacific island nations gathered in Palau for the Pacific Islands Forum summit to discuss important regional issues. The meeting is overshadowed by growing competition among major powers like China, the United States, Taiwan, Australia, and New Zealand, all seeking influence in the Pacific region.
Key Facts
The Pacific Islands Forum is a group of 18 member countries and territories, many with very small populations.
Palau, the host country for the 2026 summit, has about 18,000 residents, increasing to 20,000 with visiting delegates.
Forum members deal with issues like climate change and economic struggles.
The region has valuable natural resources, including fisheries and seabed minerals.
Pacific island nations control large exclusive economic zones important for global trade and military strategy.
Powerful countries have increased efforts to build alliances through security deals and funding in the Pacific.
Palau’s president asked major countries not to interfere and to focus on regional concerns rather than geopolitical competition.
The forum strives to make decisions by consensus, respecting the diverse cultures and political systems of its members.
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Israeli military forces carried out a raid in the city of Nablus in the occupied West Bank. During the operation, two Palestinians died and one person was taken into custody.
Key Facts
The raid took place in Nablus, a city in the occupied West Bank.
Israeli military vehicles and soldiers were deployed across the city.
Two Palestinians were reported killed during the raid.
One Palestinian was detained by Israeli forces.
The reported information comes from Israeli media sources.
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The US recently carried out its first attack on Iran in a month by striking targets on Larak Island. In response, Iran launched attacks on bases in Jordan where US forces are stationed, but the US said it intercepted the incoming missiles.
Key Facts
The US attacked sites on Larak Island, Iran.
This was the first US strike on Iran in one month.
Iran responded by targeting military bases in Jordan.
These bases in Jordan host US forces.
The US reported that it shot down the missiles fired by Iran.
The events show ongoing tension between the US and Iran.
The strikes and counterstrikes involve military actions in the Middle East.
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Russia’s Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said NATO’s increased military activities in the Arctic are a direct threat to Russia’s security. NATO started the Arctic Sentry mission in February to strengthen its presence there amid tensions related to Russia’s war in Ukraine and the U.S. interest in Greenland.
Key Facts
NATO launched the Arctic Sentry mission in February 2026 to boost its military presence in the Arctic.
Russia considers NATO’s Arctic activity a direct security threat and calls the military exercises aggressive.
The Arctic region is important to Russia for its naval fleet, including nuclear submarines, and for developing shipping routes to Asia.
Russia has the largest military presence and infrastructure in the Arctic.
China has increased its activity in the Arctic, mainly working with Russia.
Norway recently expanded a military brigade based in the Arctic as part of NATO’s defense buildup after Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine.
Lavrov warned that NATO’s actions increase the risk of armed conflict with dangerous consequences.
Russia has denied being a threat to NATO despite the rising military tensions in the Arctic.
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