QUICKREADS

Mutation behind monkeypox spread? WHO’s reply; Roman numerals in clades' names
The world saw 7,500 new monkeypox cases last week, a 20 per cent surge compared to the previous week, WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said on Wednesday, giving the latest updates on the virus that has triggered concern globally. With the latest spike, the global monkeypox tally has passed the 35,000-mark and 12 deaths have so far been reported; the virus has spread to 92 countries and territories.
Luigi Mangione wins dismissal of terrorism counts in UnitedHealthcare executive Brian Thompson murder case
A New York judge dismissed terrorism charges against Luigi Mangione in the murder of health insurance executive Brian Thompson, citing insufficient evidence of intent to intimidate. Mangione, still facing second-degree murder charges, could receive life in prison if convicted. He also faces a federal indictment seeking the death penalty. Supporters gathered outside the courtroom, highlighting mixed public sentiments.

Nepal gives kingly send off to Gen Z victims of protests
Amid national mourning, Nepal honored 11 Gen Z protest victims with a state funeral. The interim government declared the students martyrs, with a procession through Kathmandu, reflecting grief over the deadly anti-corruption demonstrations that claimed 72 lives.

Florida boys, 12 and 13, arrested for $50K library vandalism after moms turn them in
Two 12 and 13-year-old Florida boys vandalized their school library, causing $50,000 in damage. Caught on surveillance, they were arrested after their mothers turned them in, facing multiple charges including burglary and criminal mischief.

Israel strikes rebel-held Yemen port after evacuation warnings
Israel launched airstrikes on Yemen's Hodeida port, targeting Houthi rebel infrastructure. The Iran-backed group reported multiple strikes, escalating tensions in the region amid ongoing conflict and strategic maritime disruptions.
Luxembourg to recognise State of Palestine
Luxembourg plans to recognize the State of Palestine, as announced by Prime Minister Luc Frieden and Foreign Minister Xavier Bettel. The decision is expected later this month at the UN General Assembly, amid rising European calls to end the Gaza conflict, which has reportedly claimed over 60,000 Palestinian lives. The EU is also adopting a tougher stance on Israel.

Kash Patel to face Senate questions over probe into Charlie Kirk’s killing
FBI Director Kash Patel will face Senate Democrats at a hearing to address the investigation into the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk and allegations of political retribution against senior officials. Concurrently, prosecutors plan to charge Tyler Robinson, accused of Kirk's assassination, with capital murder. The hearing comes amid rising concerns over political violence in the U.S.

Robert Redford, screen idol turned director and activist, dies at 89
Robert Redford, the iconic actor, director, and producer, passed away at 89. Known for his roles in classics like "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid" and "Out of Africa," he became a champion for independent film through the Sundance Institute. Despite never winning an Oscar for acting, his directorial debut "Ordinary People" earned critical acclaim, solidifying his legacy in cinema.

Arab-Islamic summit in Qatar: Here's a look at 57 members of Organisation of Islamic Cooperation
Arab-Islamic summit in Qatar convened 57 OIC members to condemn Israeli actions, reaffirm solidarity with Palestine, and call for international accountability. The organization represents 2.1 billion people across four continents, emphasizing global Muslim unity and diplomatic cooperation.

UK: Large crowd rallies at Trafalgar Square against Yunus regime, chanting 'Joy Bangla'
Thousands of British-Bangladeshis rallied at Trafalgar Square to oppose the "repressive Yunus regime" in Bangladesh, calling for the restoration of democratic rights. The Bangladesh Awami League highlighted the symbolic significance of the location, linking it to past struggles for independence, and emphasized a message of solidarity for those facing persecution in Bangladesh.
Why Trump is suing New York Times for a massive $15 billion
President Trump announced a $15 billion defamation lawsuit against The New York Times, labeling it a "fake news network" and criticizing its coverage of him and his associates. He accused the paper of a long history of dishonesty and pledged to end what he termed their defamatory practices. The lawsuit will be filed in Florida.

Russian ship owner, linked to 2020 Beirut blast, arrested in Bulgaria
Bulgarian authorities arrested Igor Grechushkin, a Russian ship owner linked to the ammonium nitrate cargo involved in the 2020 Beirut port explosion. He was detained at Sofia International Airport on September 6, based on an Interpol red notice. Grechushkin faces extradition to Lebanon, where he is wanted for his role in the disaster that killed 218 people.

How did Tyler Robinson obtain Mauser 98 rifle to kill Charlie Kirk? Did he receive help from crowd at UVU?
Tyler Robinson allegedly killed Charlie Kirk at a Utah Valley University event using a Mauser 98 rifle. He previously discussed plans to kill Kirk, and forensic evidence links him to the shooting. Investigations continue to determine if he received assistance from the crowd.

Why did George Zinn falsely confess to shooting Charlie Kirk? His chilling admission revealed
George Zinn falsely confessed to Charlie Kirk's murder, claiming to draw attention from the real shooter. The 71-year-old political agitator was arrested, facing obstruction of justice charges, while the actual suspect, Tyler Robinson, remains in custody.
Tensions rise between China and Philippines as ships collide in disputed waters
China and Philippines clash in South China Sea as ships collide near Scarborough Shoal. Chinese vessels used water cannons against Philippine ships, escalating maritime tensions. International observers, including the US, condemn China's territorial actions and nature reserve declaration.

Kash Patel summoned to Senate over Charlie Kirk probe and FBI turmoil
Kash Patel will face Senate Democrats at a hearing on Tuesday amid skepticism over his leadership and recent firings at the FBI. Lawmakers will question him about Charlie Kirk's killing and allegations of illegal political retribution linked to the firings. Patel, a Trump ally, seeks to reassure Congress while addressing concerns about politicization within the FBI.