Here’s a quick look at the biggest global news stories for October 25, 2024. Cyclone Dana makes landfall in Odisha and West Bengal, causing severe damage and prompting mass evacuations. In Jammu and Kashmir’s Baramulla, a terror attack leaves two soldiers and two porters dead. Meanwhile, the U.S. economy experiences slower growth in Q3, raising concerns about a potential recession. Other top headlines include escalating violence in Gaza, a UK court blocking the government’s migrant deportation plan, and NASA preparing for its historic Artemis 3 Moon mission.
1. Cyclone Dana Makes Landfall in Odisha and West Bengal
Cyclone Dana struck the eastern coast of India, affecting both Odisha and West Bengal with severe winds reaching up to 110 km/h. The cyclone caused heavy rainfall, resulting in widespread flooding, particularly in low-lying areas. Thousands of residents were evacuated from coastal regions as a precautionary measure, and rescue teams are on high alert. The storm disrupted transportation, with train services halted and flights grounded. Authorities in both states have set up relief centers stocked with essential supplies. Fishermen were advised to stay ashore as sea conditions remain dangerous. The Indian government is closely monitoring the situation to minimize casualties.
2. Baramulla Terror Attack
In Baramulla, Jammu and Kashmir, two Indian soldiers and two civilian porters were killed in a terror attack. Militants ambushed an Army convoy near the Line of Control, leading to an intense firefight. The attack comes amid a rise in militant activities in the region, raising concerns about infiltration attempts from across the border. Security forces have launched a search operation to track down the attackers. Local political leaders condemned the attack, calling for an end to violence in the region. This incident is part of a broader security challenge that Jammu and Kashmir faces in combating insurgency.
3. US Economy Shows Slower Growth in Q3
The U.S. economy grew at a slower pace in the third quarter of 2024, with GDP expanding by just 2%, down from 3.8% in the previous quarter. The slowdown has been attributed to weakened consumer spending and reduced business investments amid rising interest rates. Analysts are now concerned about the possibility of a recession as inflation continues to outpace wage growth. Supply chain disruptions and higher energy prices have also contributed to the economic slump. Federal Reserve policymakers are expected to debate further rate hikes to control inflation. However, economic recovery remains fragile, with uncertain global market conditions.
4. Israel-Gaza Ceasefire Talks Continue
Ceasefire talks between Israel and Hamas continue under the mediation of international bodies as violence escalates in the Gaza Strip. The renewed conflict has resulted in significant civilian casualties on both sides, with dozens of people killed in airstrikes and rocket attacks. Negotiators are pushing for a humanitarian truce to allow aid into affected areas, but the situation remains volatile. The international community has expressed concern over the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Israeli forces have intensified their military operations in response to rocket fire from Hamas, while civilian infrastructure, including hospitals and schools, has been damaged. Both sides remain entrenched in their positions, complicating the peace process.
5. UK Court Blocks Migrant Deportation Plan
A UK court has blocked the government’s controversial plan to deport asylum seekers to Rwanda, citing concerns over human rights violations. The ruling dealt a blow to Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s immigration policy, which aimed to deter illegal migrants by relocating them to Rwanda. Human rights groups welcomed the decision, arguing that the policy would have violated international law and the rights of vulnerable individuals. The government is expected to appeal the ruling, insisting that it is necessary to curb the rise in illegal immigration across the English Channel. Critics argue that the policy fails to address the root causes of migration and risks further damaging the UK’s international reputation. The issue continues to divide public opinion.
6. AI Technology Forum Kicks Off in Tokyo
The AI Technology Forum 2024, a major global summit, has commenced in Tokyo, attracting leaders from both the public and private sectors to discuss the future of artificial intelligence. Central topics include AI ethics, regulation, and the impact of automation on job markets. Concerns over the potential misuse of AI in surveillance and warfare were also highlighted, prompting calls for international standards on AI governance. Tech companies showcased cutting-edge advancements in AI, emphasizing their potential to revolutionize industries such as healthcare, transportation, and finance. However, critics warned of the dangers of uncontrolled AI development. Policymakers from various nations have vowed to collaborate on creating a framework for responsible AI innovation.
7. Protests Erupt in Argentina After Presidential Election
Massive protests have erupted across Argentina following the results of the 2024 presidential election, where neither candidate conceded defeat. Supporters of both leading candidates, representing opposing political ideologies, clashed in major cities, including Buenos Aires. Allegations of electoral fraud and vote tampering have exacerbated tensions, with the losing party calling for an investigation. The election has exposed deep political and economic divisions in the country, which has been grappling with inflation, poverty, and unemployment. The government has urged calm, while international observers have been deployed to ensure transparency in the recount process. The outcome of the election remains uncertain, fueling further unrest.
8. Global Fuel Prices Surge
Fuel prices have reached their highest levels in a decade due to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and supply chain disruptions. The conflict in the region, particularly in oil-rich areas, has led to concerns over reduced output, pushing prices up globally. Consumers and businesses alike are feeling the pinch as transportation costs soar, adding to inflationary pressures in major economies. Governments are considering releasing strategic oil reserves to stabilize the market, but analysts warn that this may only offer temporary relief. The energy crisis has sparked debates on transitioning to renewable energy to reduce dependency on fossil fuels. Rising costs are expected to have a ripple effect across global supply chains.
9. NASA Prepares to Launch Artemis 3
NASA is finalizing preparations for the launch of Artemis 3, which aims to return humans to the Moon for the first time in over five decades. The mission, set for November 2024, will mark a significant milestone in space exploration and pave the way for a sustained human presence on the Moon. The mission will also include the first woman and person of color to land on the lunar surface. NASA is collaborating with international partners, including the European Space Agency, to develop lunar habitats and conduct scientific research. The Artemis program is seen as a precursor to future missions to Mars. Space enthusiasts around the world eagerly await this historic event.
10. Massive Earthquake Strikes Chile
A powerful earthquake measuring 7.8 on the Richter scale has struck Chile’s coastal region, causing widespread damage and triggering tsunami warnings across the Pacific. Buildings have collapsed, and roads have been rendered impassable, with emergency services struggling to reach affected areas. The quake’s epicenter was located near the city of Valdivia, one of the hardest-hit regions. Thousands of residents have been evacuated to higher ground as aftershocks continue to shake the area. International aid has been offered by several nations, and Chile’s government has declared a state of emergency. Rescue efforts are underway, but the full extent of the damage is still being assessed.