Malaysia is laying the groundwork for a surge in domestic exploration through a proposed RM1,000 tax break on local travel and cultural activities. Part of Budget 2026, the initiative aims to encourage citizens to discover lesser-known destinations, regional festivals, and cultural experiences.

Paige Beauchemin, a 2023 state representative, is challenging Democrat Maggie Goodlander in New Hampshire’s 2nd Congressional District. Their different stances on immigration and the War in Gaza underscore the evolving political landscape in the Granite State.

In a sudden escalation of hostilities, fierce border clashes between Pakistan and Afghanistan have left dozens killed, making it the most serious confrontation since the Taliban assumed power in Kabul. Pakistani officials reported 23 fatalities among their soldiers, while the Taliban said nine of its fighters died in the fighting, prompting a closure of a key border crossing.

After two years of conflict, Israelis now brace for the return of their loved ones from Gaza. The ceasefire agreement, though fragile, offers a brief respite from the violence. As families prepare to welcome back those who survived, they also mourn for those who will never return.

Palestinian militant group Hamas intends to release dozens of Israeli hostages it has been holding in Gaza. While details about the specific hostages remain sparse, the plan marks a significant development closely watched by local and international audiences.

Legal back-and-forths have left Illinois National Guard troops in a complex position in the Chicago area. While troops remain federalized, courts have limited their deployment, underscoring a tug-of-war between the Trump administration and judicial decisions.

Illinois National Guard members are reflecting on the constitutional obligations of following lawful military orders. Two soldiers see potential gray areas in their recent deployment to the Chicago area, where they assist federal immigration agents.

Oregon Health & Science University has diverted emergency helicopter flights after lasers were pointed at aircraft circling near Portland’s ICE facility. Officials warn that such interference risks delaying critical care for patients who rely on timely medical transport.

The Federation for American Immigration Reform (FAIR) has filed a FOIA lawsuit against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to uncover details surrounding the Biden Administration’s cancellation of Operation Talon. FAIR’s legal action focuses on promoting government accountability and transparency, aiming to “pierce the veil of secrecy.”

San Francisco’s approach to homelessness and addiction spending has come under scrutiny. The city is facing questions about billions allocated to address “untreated mental illness or addiction” and whether taxpayer dollars are being spent effectively.

In a swift escalation of tactics, the White House budget office announced mass firings of federal workers. The move, aimed at applying additional pressure on Democratic lawmakers, underscores the mounting fallout of an ongoing government shutdown.

In a brief yet urgent letter, Morrison appeals to readers to stand up for those in Gaza. By focusing on psychological trauma, the piece underscores a pressing need for public awareness and support.

Hillary Clinton and Condoleezza Rice, two former secretaries of state, have praised the Trump administration for its initial work on a Gaza peace plan. The pair spoke to CBS News’ Norah O’Donnell, calling the developments in the Middle East “monumental.”

President Donald Trump signaled that he might cancel a proposed meeting with Chinese leader Xi Jinping during his upcoming trip to South Korea. Citing China’s restriction on essential rare earth exports, he also threatened to impose more tariffs, potentially escalating the conflict between the two nations.

Russian President Vladimir Putin publicly lauded President Donald Trump’s peace-building efforts, despite Trump’s absence from the Nobel Prize winners’ list. Putin also expressed optimism about extending a pivotal nuclear arms agreement with the United States for another year.

Military families are bracing for missed paychecks after the House blocked a Democratic bill to fund troop salaries during the ongoing government shutdown. Lawmakers remain deadlocked, with critics pointing to one key representative as preventing the bill’s passage.

Indonesia’s decision to deny visas to Israeli gymnasts has prompted a restrained response from the International Gymnastics Federation (FIG). While the federation “takes note” of the move, it has stopped short of a direct condemnation in the lead-up to the world championships in Jakarta.

Russian drone and missile strikes on Ukraine’s capital have wounded at least 20 people and damaged residential buildings, leading to widespread blackouts. Separate attacks have also claimed the life of a child, reflecting the widespread impact of the ongoing conflict.

President Donald Trump has threatened economic retaliation against China over its export controls on critical rare earths. He criticized Chinese leader Xi Jinping on social media, saying he no longer sees a reason to meet with Xi later this year.

India has upgraded its diplomatic outpost in Kabul from a technical mission to a full embassy, bolstering bilateral ties after a four-year hiatus. The move paves the way for enhanced trade, potential mining investments, and the revival of key transport routes, including the air freight corridor via Chabahar port.

Janet Mills, who previously said she had no intention of running for further public office, is now expected to unveil her Senate ambitions as early as next week. Political observers note that this shift comes just months after her firm statements in April, making it a noteworthy development ahead of Election 2026.