UK’s finance minister promises more spending, fuels election speculation
New British finance minister Sajid Javid said he will announce higher public spending on health, education and the police next week in order to “clear the decks for Brexit,” a move seen by many as preparation for an early election.
At start of 1MDB trial, prosecution paints a tale of excess and abuse
Malaysian prosecutors on Wednesday said former prime minister Najib Razak abused his power to cover up the theft of hundreds of millions of dollars from the state fund 1MDB and used the fund for self-gratification.
Taliban kill 14 pro-government militia in Afghanistan: officials
Taliban militants killed at least 14 members of a pro-government militia in Afghanistan on Wednesday, said officials, as Taliban and U.S. officials near a deal aimed at ending the 18-year war.
Hezbollah to retaliate against Israel but war unlikely: deputy chief
Hezbollah will retaliate against Israel after drones crashed in Beirut’s suburbs, but a new war between the old enemies remains unlikely, the Iran-backed movement’s deputy leader has said.
Six killed as Indonesian authorities open fire in Papua: news report
Indonesian authorities opened fire on Papuan protesters, killing six people, as they tried to storm a local government office in the Deiyai region on Wednesday, reported news website Suarapapua.com citing a separatist group spokesman.
Italy’s PD says no vetoes as talks resume with 5-Star
Italy’s ruling 5-Star Movement and opposition Democratic Party (PD) resumed talks on Wednesday over the formation of a new government led by outgoing prime minister Giuseppe Conte.
Poland’s ruling party has 41.5% support before October vote: IBRiS
Poland’s ruling nationalist Law and Justice (PiS) party still enjoys the highest support out of any grouping ahead of parliamentary elections in October, according to a poll released on Wednesday.
Hezbollah plans strike against Israel but war unlikely: deputy chief
Hezbollah’s deputy leader Sheikh Naim Qassem has said the Iran-backed movement will retaliate against Israel after two drones crashed in Beirut, but a new war between the two enemies remains unlikely.
South Korea says regrettable that Japan’s trade curbs have taken effect
It was deeply regrettable that Japan’s decision to scrap fast-track export status for South Korea has taken effect, Seoul said on Wednesday, adding that it was up to Tokyo to take action to reverse a sharp deterioration in the neighbors’ ties.
Hong Kong protesters aim their anger at Cathay Pacific ‘white terror’
Organizers of a Hong Kong rally planned for outside the airport offices of Cathay Pacific on Wednesday moved the protest downtown after police withheld permission and the airline warned against an illegal demonstration.
