AI-Created Songs Banned from Australia’s Music Charts
Songs that are largely or wholly created by AI have been banned from Australia's music charts, according to the Australian Recording Industry Association (ARIA).
Asia Pacific
NZ Religious Sect Leader Jailed for 10 Years in Follower Death
A New Zealand court has jailed Kaixiao Liu for more than 10 years for manslaughter and kidnapping, after the death of 70-year-old Shulai Wang. Liu was found guilty of the crime, with Wang’s body discovered wrapped in rice bags near Auckland in March 2024.
US strikes vessel in eastern Pacific, killing 2 in first attack in months
US forces struck a vessel in the eastern Pacific, killing two people, according to the US Southern Command. This marks the first such attack in months as part of a campaign targeting narco-traffickers.
Nepal Outrage Over Three-Year-Old Girl’s Rape and Murder
Activists and politicians in Nepal have called for tougher laws following the alleged rape and murder of a three-year-old girl, according to BBC.
AMED Leads Japan’s Longevity Research, New Amed Sportif Faaliyetler Launch
Japan's AMED is driving longevity research with clinical applications, while EA SPORTS FC™ 27 introduces Amed Sportif Faaliyetler player ratings.
India Used Pellets, Grenades on Gen Z Protests: Amnesty Report
Amnesty International has confirmed that Indian security forces used lethal weapons, including pellet-firing shotguns, grenades, batons, and electric shock devices, during protests in New Delhi last month, according to a report from Al Jazeera.
China Probes Formaldehyde Use to Keep Cabbages Fresh
Chinese authorities have launched an investigation into the reported use of formaldehyde to preserve cabbages for human consumption, according to state media.
Australian Shark Attack Victim Grateful for ‘Second Chance at Life’
An Australian woman who survived a shark attack at a popular Sydney beach says she has been given a 'second chance at life,' according to the BBC.
Nearly Three Million Teslas Recalled in China for Hidden Door Handles
China has announced the largest car recall in its history, affecting nearly three million vehicles, including 2.98 million Chinese-made Teslas, due to concerns over hidden door handles, according to the BBC.
Indiana Town Frustrated After 12-Day Power Outage
A former industrial town in Indiana has been without power for 12 days following severe storms on 11 August. Wind gusts reached 99 mph, leaving nearly 30,000 customers still without electricity as of Sunday, according to Nipsco.
Dozens of co-ordinated arson attacks hit southern Thailand
Dozens of co-ordinated arson attacks hit southern Thailand on August 22, 2026, prompting an overnight curfew in Narathiwat province. No group has claimed responsibility.
Japan Tokyo Earthquake Today: Magnitude 5.9 Rattles Eastern Japan
A magnitude 5.9 earthquake struck eastern Japan, including Tokyo, early Sunday, causing minor injuries and disruptions. No tsunami was expected, according to the Japan Meteorological Agency.
Father Leaves 7-Year-Old Alone on Mount Fuji for Hours
A Japanese father left his 7-year-old son alone on Mount Fuji for hours while continuing his hike, according to reports. The child was found at the sixth station, with police reuniting him with his father after a stern warning.
Royal Caribbean Cancels Navigator of the Seas Trips for 2027
Royal Caribbean has canceled several U.S. sailings for its 2027 season, including trips aboard the Navigator of the Seas, as the ship is being redeployed to Asia-Pacific destinations.
Gandhi’s Handwritten Notes on Life Fetch $1.69M at Mumbai Auction
A rare collection of handwritten notes by Mahatma Gandhi has sold for $1.69 million at an auction in Mumbai, setting a record for the highest price paid for an Indian historical document at an auction.