Author: Web Desk

Zurich: FIFA has announced that spectators attending the 2026 FIFA World Cup will not be allowed to bring reusable water bottles into stadiums, reversing an earlier policy that had permitted empty transparent bottles. Under the updated stadium code of conduct, which came into effect this week, reusable plastic bottles, along with cups, cans, jars and other containers, are now prohibited inside World Cup venues. FIFA said the decision was made to reduce the risk of injuries that could occur if such items were thrown onto the pitch or into crowds. The policy marks a significant change from guidance issued only…

Sydney: The Australian state of Victoria has introduced new legislation aimed at shutting down businesses involved in the illegal tobacco trade, as authorities respond to a significant rise in nicotine consumption across the country. The proposed laws would grant police and state regulators expanded powers to close businesses found selling illicit tobacco products. Authorities would be able to issue immediate closure notices and seek court orders to extend shutdown periods for repeat offenders. Under the legislation, businesses that fail to comply with enforcement orders could face penalties exceeding A$2.4 million, while individuals involved in serious breaches may face prison sentences…

Tokyo: Tropical Storm Jangmi swept across Japan, bringing powerful winds, heavy rainfall and widespread disruption to transport networks and businesses. Authorities warned residents to remain vigilant as the storm moved northeast along the Pacific coast, passing close to some of the country’s most densely populated regions. According to the Japan Meteorological Agency, the storm’s centre was located about 150 kilometres south of Tokyo during the afternoon, carrying maximum sustained winds of up to 25 metres per second. Officials warned that severe weather conditions could continue to affect eastern Japan, increasing the risk of flooding, landslides and damage to infrastructure. The…

Redmond: Microsoft has unveiled its latest quantum computing chip, Majorana 2, claiming it is 1,000 times more reliable than its predecessor and could accelerate the development of commercially useful quantum computers. The company says the new chip significantly improves the stability of qubits, the fundamental building blocks of quantum computers. While traditional computers process information using binary bits, quantum computers use qubits that can exist in multiple states simultaneously, potentially enabling them to solve highly complex problems far beyond the capabilities of today’s machines. According to Microsoft, qubits on the Majorana 2 chip can remain stable for an average of…

Kinshasa: The Democratic Republic of the Congo has reopened Bunia Airport in Ituri Province, reversing restrictions imposed at the height of the country’s worsening Ebola outbreak. The decision allows passenger flights to resume immediately while authorities continue efforts to contain the spread of the virus. The airport, located in the region hardest hit by the outbreak, had been closed to passenger traffic last month after health officials confirmed the first Ebola cases in the province. Humanitarian and medical flights were permitted to continue during the suspension, subject to government approval. According to the transport ministry, strict health protocols will now…

Tallahassee: The state of Florida has become the first in the United States to file a lawsuit against OpenAI, alleging that its chatbot ChatGPT poses serious risks to children and public safety. The lawsuit, filed by Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier, accuses OpenAI and its chief executive Sam Altman of prioritising rapid AI development and profits over user protection. The complaint alleges that ChatGPT has contributed to harmful behaviour, including encouraging dangerous actions, exposing minors to risks and failing to prevent misuse by individuals involved in violent crimes. Florida authorities are also conducting a separate criminal investigation into whether ChatGPT…

Washington: Fresh military tensions have emerged between the United States and Iran after both countries reported carrying out air strikes over the weekend, raising concerns about the fragile state of ongoing peace negotiations. The US Central Command said it conducted what it described as self-defence strikes against Iranian military facilities, including radar systems, drone command centres and air defence infrastructure located in southern Iran and nearby islands in the Gulf region. According to US officials, the operation was launched in response to what they called aggressive Iranian actions, including the reported downing of an American MQ-1 drone operating over international…

Ahmedabad: Virat Kohli produced another memorable performance as Royal Challengers Bengaluru defeated Gujarat Titans by five wickets to retain the Indian Premier League title. Chasing a target of 156 in the final at Ahmedabad, Bengaluru completed the run chase with two overs remaining, thanks largely to Kohli’s unbeaten 75 from just 42 deliveries. The veteran batter struck nine boundaries and three sixes, finishing the contest in style by hitting the winning runs over the boundary. The victory secured RCB’s second IPL title and marked back-to-back championships after the franchise lifted its maiden trophy in 2025. Kohli, who was named Player…

Singapore: Japan’s Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi has strongly rejected China’s accusations that Tokyo is moving towards militarism, arguing instead that Beijing’s expanding military capabilities are a far greater concern for regional security. Speaking at the annual Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, Koizumi dismissed claims that Japan was embracing a ‘new militarism’. His comments came after Chinese officials recently warned that Japan’s growing military strength and defence spending were reviving concerns linked to the country’s wartime past. China has repeatedly criticised Tokyo’s efforts to expand its military capabilities under Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi. Koizumi argued that Japan’s military developments are aimed solely…

Bunia: The Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo has reached a critical stage, with humanitarian organisations warning that the disease is spreading faster than response efforts can contain it. Health officials have now reported more than 1,000 suspected cases and at least 246 deaths, making it one of the most serious Ebola emergencies the country has faced in recent years. Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) described the situation as ‘deeply alarming’, warning that the outbreak is expanding at an unprecedented rate. Dr Alan Gonzales, MSF’s deputy director, said never before had an Ebola outbreak recorded so many cases…