Thai authorities have successfully dismantled a scam operation in Bang Lamung district, Chon Buri province, leading to the arrest of 20 South Korean nationals and one Chinese national. The arrests took place on June 21 at a luxurious pool villa, following a tip-off from the South Korean embassy.

Upon raiding the villa, officers from the Tourist Police, Immigration Bureau, and Bang Lamung police discovered a group of men working at computers. Some attempted to flee during the raid, resulting in one injury, but all were apprehended.

Investigators found a whiteboard detailing investment schemes in Korean, leading them to believe the villa was a hub for a larger criminal network. This network is suspected of engaging in "romance scams," where victims are deceived into fake relationships and then persuaded to transfer money.

Colonel Songwut Chueaplakij, superintendent of Tourist Police Division 2, stated that all confiscated items would be analyzed to confirm their use in illegal activities. The suspects are now facing legal proceedings under Thai law. It was also reported that a South Korean man who had allegedly been kidnapped and forced to work for the scam gang was rescued during the operation.

U.S. President Donald Trump has announced a "complete and total" ceasefire between Israel and Iran, intended to bring an end to what he termed "THE 12 DAY WAR." This declaration came shortly after both nations had threatened further attacks.

Trump, speaking on his Truth Social platform, indicated that the ceasefire would be implemented in a phased manner. He suggested that both Israel and Iran would have a limited time to conclude any ongoing military operations before the truce commenced. He congratulated both countries for their "Stamina, Courage, and Intelligence" in agreeing to end the conflict, which he believed "could have gone on for years, and destroyed the entire Middle East."


Neither the Iranian U.N. mission nor the Israeli embassy in Washington immediately commented on Trump's announcement. However, hours earlier, three Israeli officials had signaled their intention to conclude their campaign in Iran soon, a message conveyed to the United States. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated on Sunday that Israel was "very, very close to completing" its objectives. A senior Iranian official later confirmed to Reuters that Tehran had agreed to the U.S.-proposed ceasefire.




This ceasefire follows a period of escalating hostilities. Over the weekend, U.S. bombers used 30,000-pound bunker-buster bombs on Iranian underground nuclear facilities, directly joining Israel's ongoing aerial campaign against Iran. Iran retaliated with a missile attack on a U.S. air base in Qatar, which reportedly caused no injuries, with Trump thanking Tehran for providing early notice of the strikes.


The news of the ceasefire was met positively by financial markets. S&P 500 futures rose by 0.4% late on Monday, indicating an expected gain for the U.S. stock market on Tuesday. Conversely, U.S. crude futures fell in early Asian trading hours on Tuesday to their lowest level in over a week, as concerns about potential oil supply disruptions in the region eased with the announcement of a truce.

Effective July 1, 2025, Vietnam is implementing significant changes to its Law on Vietnamese Nationality, aiming to simplify the path to citizenship for certain foreign nationals. These revisions, recently approved by the National Assembly, are part of a broader government strategy to attract skilled professionals, investors, scientists, and experts, thereby fostering national development and integration.


A key amendment is the relaxation of naturalization requirements for foreigners with direct family ties to Vietnam. Previously, individuals applying for Vietnamese citizenship who had a Vietnamese spouse, child, parent, or grandparent faced stringent demands. They were required to demonstrate proficiency in the Vietnamese language, prove financial self-sufficiency, and have resided in Vietnam for at least five years. Under the new law, these specific requirements are now waived for applicants who can establish such familial connections. This also extends to children applying alongside a Vietnamese parent, for whom the legal capacity requirement will also be bypassed.


The eased conditions also apply to foreigners whose special contributions or proven benefits to Vietnam have been officially recognized. Similar to those with family ties, these individuals will no longer be subjected to the previous residency, language, or financial prerequisites, making it considerably easier for them to obtain Vietnamese citizenship.


Despite these relaxations, applicants are still expected to adhere to Vietnamese laws, show respect for local culture and customs, and demonstrate full legal capacity. However, as noted, the legal capacity requirement is waived for children applying concurrently with a Vietnamese parent. The government's aspiration is that these reforms will significantly enhance Vietnam's appeal to a global pool of talent.

In another notable shift, Vietnam will now permit some applicants to hold dual citizenship, a significant departure from its previous general principle of single nationality. This allowance is specifically for those with Vietnamese relatives who receive presidential approval. This expanded provision builds on earlier, more limited allowances for dual citizenship; for instance, before the new law's passage, statistics from March 2025 show that out of over 7,000 individuals granted Vietnamese nationality, 60 were permitted to hold dual citizenship, while 20 out of 311 approved for citizenship restoration also retained foreign citizenship. This indicates a clear trend towards greater flexibility. Furthermore, for those residing abroad, applications for Vietnamese citizenship can now be conveniently submitted through Vietnamese embassies or consulates.


The updated law also introduces more flexible naming conventions for naturalized citizens. While it remains a requirement for naturalized citizens to adopt a Vietnamese name or a name from one of Vietnam's ethnic groups, dual citizens are granted the unique allowance to combine a Vietnamese name with their original name. This combined name will be officially recognized in their citizenship documents, reflecting a more accommodating approach to their diverse identities. Some lawmakers had even advocated for further loosening naming requirements to better align with Vietnam's increasing global integration. It is important to note that while the law aims to attract talent and streamline the process, certain sensitive government and security roles will still mandate single Vietnamese nationality to ensure national loyalty and security.

Effective June 2025, individuals applying for F (student), M (vocational student), and J (exchange visitor) nonimmigrant visas to the United States are now mandated to disclose all social media usernames they have used over the past five years. This new requirement, announced by U.S. embassies, also stipulates that applicants must set the privacy settings of all their social media accounts to "public" to enable thorough vetting.

The U.S. State Department implemented these guidelines to bolster national security by allowing officials to scrutinize applicants' online activities. The goal is to identify potential threats that might not be detected through traditional background checks. This policy applies globally, impacting millions of students, scholars, and exchange visitors annually.

Embassies have emphasized that all information provided in visa applications must be truthful and accurate. Failing to disclose social media information or attempting to conceal activity could lead to visa denial and future ineligibility. Consular officers will be looking for signs of hostility towards the U.S., its citizens, culture, government, or founding principles, as well as advocacy for terrorist groups or unlawful antisemitic harassment or violence. They will also consider any behavior that suggests a lack of credibility or an intent to violate visa rules.

The State Department had temporarily halted the issuance of visas for foreign students in late May to develop these new social media guidelines. Visa appointments are now resuming, though applicants are advised to check embassy and consulate websites for availability, as the enhanced screening may lead to fewer appointments.

This move is part of broader U.S. immigration measures that have increased uncertainty for international students, including a new travel ban and visa restrictions on nationals from 19 countries that became effective on June 9. The new social media vetting applies to both new and returning applicants, and officials are instructed to review applicants' "entire online presence," not just social media, taking screenshots of any concerning material.

Heavy rainfall is currently affecting central and southern China, leading to significant evacuations in Hunan province. State news agency Xinhua reported that over 53,000 people in Hunan had been evacuated by 5:00 p.m. on Friday. The province is anticipating more torrential rain, with some isolated areas expected to experience "extremely heavy" downpours. Since Wednesday, certain parts of Hunan have already recorded over 400 millimeters (16 inches) of precipitation.

The China Meteorological Administration (CMA) has also issued warnings for heavy rain across southern and central China for Saturday, highlighting a "significant threat of mountain flood disasters" in some regions. This warning follows recent severe weather events, including the evacuation of nearly 70,000 people in southern China due to heavy flooding from Typhoon Wutip, which occurred earlier in June 2025. Last month, northern and central China experienced record-breaking heat in May, with temperatures in several major cities exceeding 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit).

China has consistently faced extreme weather, from intense heat and droughts to heavy rains and floods, over the past few summers. The country, while being the world's largest emitter of greenhouse gases, is also a leader in renewable energy and aims to achieve net-zero carbon dioxide emissions by 2060. For context, last August, Typhoon Gaemi caused torrential rains in eastern mainland China after moving from the Philippines and Taiwan, resulting in at least 30 fatalities and dozens missing.

On Sunday, the global community awaited Iran's reaction to significant U.S. airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites, an action that, along with Israel's ongoing military engagement, marks the largest Western military intervention against Iran since its 1979 revolution.

The U.S. targeted Iran's Fordow nuclear facility with 30,000-pound bunker-buster bombs. Following these attacks, American leaders urged de-escalation, while anti-war protests emerged in U.S. cities. President Donald Trump, in a post on Truth Social, suggested the possibility of regime change in Iran, stating, "if the current Iranian Regime is unable to MAKE IRAN GREAT AGAIN, why wouldn’t there be a Regime change???"

Meanwhile, Iran and Israel continued exchanging missile attacks. Israel confirmed hitting military targets in western Iran after Iranian missiles injured many and destroyed buildings in Tel Aviv.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security issued a "heightened threat environment" alert in the U.S., warning of potential cyberattacks and targeted violence, leading to increased law enforcement patrols around religious, cultural, and diplomatic sites in major cities. The U.S. State Department also advised American citizens abroad to exercise extreme caution due to possible anti-American demonstrations and airspace closures across the Middle East.

Although Iran has not yet directly retaliated against the U.S. by targeting bases or disrupting oil supplies, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi stated in Istanbul that all responses were being considered and that diplomacy would not resume until retaliation occurred. He criticized the U.S. for its disregard for international law, stating, "They only understand the language of threat and force."

President Trump lauded the strikes as a "spectacular military success," claiming Iran's key nuclear enrichment facilities were "completely and totally obliterated." Commercial satellite imagery suggests severe damage to the deeply buried Fordow plant, though its exact status remains unconfirmed. The International Atomic Energy Agency reported no increased off-site radiation levels but could not yet assess underground damage. A senior Iranian source, however, claimed most highly enriched uranium at Fordow was relocated before the attack, a claim Reuters could not immediately verify.

Trump urged Iran to forgo retaliation, stating that it "must now make peace" or face "far greater and a lot easier" future attacks. In a move seen as Iran's most significant threat to Western interests, its parliament approved closing the Strait of Hormuz, through which nearly a quarter of global oil shipments pass. This action would require approval from Iran's Supreme National Security Council and could drastically increase global oil prices, potentially inviting conflict with the U.S. Navy's Fifth Fleet, which is tasked with keeping the strait open. Following the attacks, Brent crude and U.S. crude futures rose to their highest levels since January.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio indicated no further military operations were planned against Iran unless they provoked. The U.N. Security Council met to discuss the U.S. strikes, with Russia, China, and Pakistan proposing a ceasefire resolution. U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres described the U.S. bombings as a dangerous escalation and called for a halt to fighting and a return to nuclear program negotiations.

Despite U.S. officials stressing that their mission was not about regime change, Israeli officials, who initiated hostilities with a surprise attack on June 13, have increasingly expressed their goal of toppling Iran's ruling clerical establishment. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that Israel was close to eliminating the threats posed by Iran's ballistic missiles and nuclear program.

New Zealand announced on Monday that its newly revised foreign investor migrant visa has attracted a surge in applications, as the center-right government seeks to draw more wealthy individuals to help boost the country's economy.

In April, the government made significant changes to the visa rules, including reducing the minimum investment required for higher-risk categories from NZ$15 million (approximately US$9 million) to NZ$5 million (about US$3 million). It also removed the English language requirement for applicants.

Immigration Minister Erica Stanford described the response as “a flood of formal interest” in the revamped "golden visa" program. She noted that the new applications could bring up to NZ$845 million in fresh investment into New Zealand businesses.

According to Stanford, in less than three months, the government received 189 applications for the Active Investor Plus visa — a notable increase compared to the 116 applications submitted under the old rules over a span of two and a half years.

Among the applicants, U.S. citizens made up the largest group, submitting 85 applications. They were followed by individuals from mainland China (26 applications) and Hong Kong (24 applications).

The surge in interest comes as New Zealand’s economy showed stronger-than-expected growth in the first quarter, according to recent official figures. This improvement offers some optimism after the country experienced a technical recession last year — its worst economic performance, aside from the pandemic, since 1991.

Residents in Beijing sought shade and relief on Monday as the Chinese capital sweltered under one of the hottest days of the year so far. The city’s meteorological bureau issued an orange-level heat warning—the second-highest on China’s three-tier heat alert system—as temperatures soared close to 38 degrees Celsius (100°F).

The warning prompted city officials to urge the public to minimize outdoor activities, drink plenty of fluids, and be vigilant about symptoms of heatstroke. With a population of over 22 million, Beijing was placed on alert amid ongoing heatwaves that have increasingly gripped northern China in recent years. In contrast, some southern parts of the country are contending with heavy rains and flooding, highlighting the growing climate imbalance across regions.

Li Weijun, a 22-year-old intern, said the unrelenting heat had disrupted his daily routine. “It’s been very hot lately, especially the last few days,” he told AFP. He has stopped wearing formal clothing to work and now delays his evening exercise until after 10 p.m. to avoid the worst of the heat. “I think this is related to climate change, and maybe also to how nature has been damaged,” he added.

Protective Measures and Public Response

Guidelines issued by city authorities advised that construction workers limit their hours under the sun, and urged the elderly or individuals with health conditions to avoid strenuous activity. On the streets, residents took visible measures to shield themselves from the sun.

Zhang Chen, 28, who works in IT, told reporters she always carried an umbrella for sun protection. “I used to cycle, but once it gets this hot, I stop,” she said.

While many avoided the sun, delivery drivers continued working, zipping through the downtown area at midday to keep Beijing’s workforce fed and caffeinated. Some sought brief respite by parking their scooters in shady spots, while others cooled down with ice cream or waded into city canals for relief.

Rising Temperatures and Climate Implications

Although Monday’s temperatures didn’t surpass Beijing’s record-high June reading of 41.1°C set in 2023, the persistent heat has reignited concerns about global climate change. Human activities, particularly the burning of fossil fuels, have accelerated the release of greenhouse gases, leading to longer, more intense heatwaves worldwide.

As the world’s largest emitter of carbon dioxide, China plays a pivotal role in global climate discussions. The country has pledged to peak its emissions by 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality by 2060. In recent years, it has also taken major strides in expanding renewable energy infrastructure, as part of efforts to reduce its reliance on coal.

Coping with the Heat – A Local Perspective

For many longtime residents of the capital, such scorching summers are nothing new, but attitudes are shifting. “I was born and raised in Beijing, and summer has always been like this,” said 42-year-old Lucy Lu, who spent her lunch break playing jianzi, a traditional Chinese game, with friends in a shaded area.

Still, she expressed concern over working conditions in extreme heat. “I do think when the temperature goes over 40 degrees, people should be allowed to work from home or have some time off to reduce the risk of heatstroke,” she suggested.

As the mercury continues to rise in major cities like Beijing, climate resilience and public safety are becoming increasingly urgent topics—both for local policymakers and global leaders.

A Canadian man who says he has beaten cancer has won three lottery jackpots since August 2024, with total winnings amounting to US$2.5 million.

Officials from the Western Canada Lottery Corporation (WCLC) confirmed that from August 2024 to May 2025, David Serkin from Alberta Province hit the jackpot three times.

He won $500,000 in August 2024, $1 million in November 2024, and another $1 million on May 3.


David Serkin poses for a photo as the winner of a LOTTO 6/49 jackpot. Photo courtesy of Western Canada Lottery Corporation

According to People, Serkin has now hit the jackpot four times since he began playing LOTTO 6/49 when it launched in 1982, with his first big win occurring over a decade ago.

Serkin shared that he bought his most recent winning ticket while filling up his car at a local gas station.

"I know the odds are astronomical. I don't think it'll happen again, but I still like buying tickets," Serkin was quoted in a press release by the WCLC.

He said his friends reacted to his latest win by exclaiming, "not again?!" during a coffee outing.

"I'm a cancer survivor and I'm retired, so I am just grateful for all of it," he said, according to the New York Post.

Serkin, who did not disclose the type of cancer or when he overcame it, said he plans to take his wife on a vacation to celebrate.

He added that they had "a wonderful time" when he took her to Hawaii after his previous win.


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Sunjay Kapur, an Indian businessman and ex-husband of Bollywood actress Karisma Kapoora, has died shortly after he reportedly swallowed a bee by accident while playing polo in England, and was stung.

Kapur, 53, chairman of global car parts giant Sona Comstar, died from anaphylactic shock after a bee possibly stung him in the mouth during a sporting event in Windsor, The Telegraph reported.

Witnesses initially heard him exclaim, "I've swallowed something" before collapsing. Some said he lost consciousness after bending over on his horse during the match break.

Reports by The Telegraph and The Mirror suggest he was stung in the mouth by a bee, possibly triggering anaphylactic shock and a heart attack.

Anaphylaxis causes the immune system to release chemicals that can cause a person to go into shock.

"Blood pressure drops suddenly, and the airways narrow, blocking breathing. Signs and symptoms include a rapid, weak pulse; a skin rash; and nausea and vomiting. Common triggers include certain foods, some medications, insect venom and latex," People cited the Mayo Clinic as saying.

The London-based Indian business tycoon inherited Sona Comstar from his father, Dr. Surinder Kapur, who founded the automotive component company in 1987.

Forbes reported that Sunjay Kapur’s net worth was US$1.2 billion at the time of his passing.

Sunjay Kapur was a passionate polo player and frequently played alongside members of the British royal family, including Prince William.

He was married to Bollywood star Karisma Kapoor from 2003 to 2016, after which he married actor-model Priya Sachdev.

His passing came shortly after he shared a condolence message on X regarding the fatal Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad on Thursday.

"Terrible news of the tragic Air India crash in Ahmedabad. My thoughts and prayers are with all the families affected. May they find strength in this difficult hour," he wrote.

In a statement regarding his death, as reported by People, Sona Comstar said: "We are deeply saddened by the sudden demise of our Chairman, Mr. Sunjay Kapur. He was a visionary leader whose passion, insight and dedication shaped the identity and success of our company."


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Israel and Iran kept up their attacks, killing and wounding civilians and raising concern among world leaders meeting in Canada this week that the biggest battle between the two old enemies could lead to a broader regional conflict.

The Iranian death toll in four days of Israeli strikes, carried out with the declared aim of wiping out Iran’s nuclear and ballistic missile programs, had reached at least 224, with 90% of the casualties reported to be civilians, an Iranian health ministry spokesperson said.

At least 10 people in Israel, including children, have been killed so far, according to authorities there.

Group of Seven leaders began gathering in the Canadian Rockies on Sunday with the Israel-Iran conflict expected to be a top priority.


Firefighters and rescue personnel work at an impact site following missile attack from Iran on Israel, in Haifa, Israel, June 15, 2025. Photo by Reuters

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said his goals for the summit include for Iran to not develop or possess nuclear weapons, ensuring Israel's right to defend itself, avoiding escalation of the conflict and creating room for diplomacy.

"This issue will be very high on the agenda of the G7 summit," Merz told reporters.

Before leaving for the summit on Sunday, U.S. President Donald Trump was asked what he was doing to de-escalate the situation. "I hope there's going to be a deal. I think it's time for a deal," he told reporters. "Sometimes they have to fight it out."

Iran has told mediators Qatar and Oman that it is not open to negotiating a ceasefire while it is under Israeli attack, an official briefed on the communications told Reuters on Sunday.

First daylight attack on Israel

Explosions shook Tel Aviv on Sunday during Iran’s first daylight missile attack since Israel’s strike on Friday. Shortly after nightfall, Iranian missiles hit a residential street in Haifa, a mixed Jewish-Arab city, and in Israel's south.

In Bat Yam, a city near Tel Aviv, residents braced on Sunday evening for another sleepless night after an overnight strike on an apartment tower.

"It's very dreadful. It's not fun. People are losing their lives and their homes," said Shem, 29.

Images from Tehran showed the night sky lit up by a huge blaze at a fuel depot after Israel began strikes against Iran's oil and gas sector - raising the stakes for the global economy and the functioning of the Iranian state.

Brent crude futures were up $1.17, or 1.6%, to $75.39 a barrel by 0015 GMT, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude futures gained $1.11, or 1.6%, to $74.14. They had surged more than $4 earlier in the session.

Trump vetoes plan to target Khamenei, officials say

In Washington, two U.S. officials told Reuters that Trump had vetoed an Israeli plan in recent days to kill Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

When asked about the Reuters report, Netanyahu told Fox News on Sunday: "There's so many false reports of conversations that never happened, and I'm not going to get into that."

"We do what we need to do," he told Fox's "Special Report With Bret Baier."

Israel began the assault with a surprise attack on Friday that wiped out the top echelon of Iran's military command and damaged its nuclear sites, and says the campaign will escalate in coming days.

The intelligence chief of Iran's Revolutionary Guards, Mohammad Kazemi, and his deputy were killed in attacks on Tehran on Sunday, Iran's semi-official Tasnim news agency said.

Iran has vowed to "open the gates of hell" in retaliation.

Trump warns Iran not to attack

Trump has lauded Israel's offensive while denying Iranian allegations that the U.S. has taken part and warning Tehran not to widen its retaliation to include U.S. targets.

Two U.S. officials said on Friday the U.S. military had helped shoot down Iranian missiles that were headed toward Israel.

The U.S. president has repeatedly said Iran could end the war by agreeing to tough restrictions on its nuclear program, which Iran says is for peaceful purposes but which Western countries and the IAEA nuclear watchdog say could be used to make an atomic bomb.

The latest round of nuclear negotiations between Iran and the U.S., due on Sunday, was scrapped after Tehran said it would not negotiate while under Israeli attack.


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Terra Dotta, an edtech solutions provider, has launched a new platform to help U.S. institutions manage compliance and better support international students amid increasingly complex regulations.

The platform, called ISSS Next Generation or Next Gen, streamlines the entire visa lifecycle, integrating case management for a range of student visa categories.

"Amid budget constraints and what's going on with regulatory compliance, the expectations of administrators to do things faster, more accurately and with less staff are increasing," said Travis Ulrich, Terra Dotta’s senior vice president of enterprise solutions, in an interview with The PIE News.

Ulrich noted that while compliance has always been essential, it has become more urgent in light of recent SEVIS (Student and Exchange Visitor Information System) terminations and heightened scrutiny of OPT (Optional Practical Training) students. OPT is a temporary employment authorization for F-1 international students in the U.S.

A key feature of the platform is its real-time integration with SEVIS, allowing international officers to instantly access termination data, quickly identify affected students, and provide timely support, The PIE reported.

SEVIS is a web-based system used by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to track SEVP-certified schools, F-1 and M-1 students, and J-1 visa Exchange Visitor Program participants.

A recent DHS directive requiring OPT students to update SEVIS with employer details or risk removal from the U.S. has sparked widespread concern about potential deportations.

Terra Dotta says it aims to ease these worries by notifying students to report their employment status promptly.

International students are also facing increasing uncertainty due to recent U.S. immigration measures. Last week, former President Trump issued a proclamation temporarily halting visas for newly admitted international students at Harvard, an action that was quickly blocked by a judge. Although specific to Harvard, the move reflects a broader trend of tightening immigration controls.

Additionally, the White House announced a new travel ban and further visa restrictions on nationals from 19 countries, effective June 9. The State Department has also paused scheduling new visa interviews for foreign students.


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A small plane crashed into a San Diego neighborhood Thursday morning, killing everyone on board and causing widespread destruction. The Cessna 550 went down around 3:45 a.m. near Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport, destroying a home and setting over a dozen cars on fire. Here's what we know so far:

Fatalities and Injuries: Six people were aboard the plane, and unfortunately, all of them lost their lives. One of the victims was identified as Dave Shapiro, a music agent and founder of Sound Talent Group. Two other staff members from the company were also on the plane.

Destruction and Response: The crash damaged at least 10 houses, and vehicles on both sides of the street went up in flames. San Diego Fire Department Assistant Chief Dan Eddy reported one house was badly damaged, but miraculously, no one on the ground was seriously hurt. The fire department and other emergency responders quickly arrived at the scene.

Cause of the Crash: The cause is still under investigation, but it's believed the plane clipped a nearby power line before going down in thick fog. The Federal Aviation Administration and National Transportation Safety Board will likely investigate the incident.

Neighborhood Impact: The residential area where the plane crashed is largely military housing, with many families living in the neighborhood. Witnesses described the scene as chaotic, with flames and smoke visible from a distance.

Witness Accounts: Yasmine Sierra, a local resident, helped her neighbors escape their burning house by using a ladder to reach them in their backyard. Jeremy Serna, a Navy personnel, recounted hearing a loud bang and seeing the sky turn orange before realizing everything was on fire.

The investigation is ongoing, and more details will be released as they become available. Unfortunately, this incident adds to a recent string of aviation accidents in the US.

The Trump administration has revoked Harvard University's authorization to enroll international students, effective immediately. This decision affects nearly 6,800 international students, representing 27.3% of the student body, who may need to transfer to other schools or lose their legal permission to stay in the US.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) took this action, citing Harvard's failure to comply with requests for records about its foreign students. However, Harvard disputes this claim, stating that it provided the requested records as required by law. According to Harvard's complaint, the university submitted records on April 30 and May 14, but the DHS still revoked its certification without explanation or citation of any regulation that Harvard failed to comply with.

Impact on International Students:
Students who completed their degrees this semester will be allowed to graduate.
Currently enrolled international students attending Harvard under the Student Exchange and Visitor Program will be forced to enroll at another US institution or leave the country.

New international students who were planning to enroll in the fall will not be able to attend Harvard unless the government changes its decision or a court intervenes.
Harvard President Alan M. Garber condemned the action, calling it "unlawful and unwarranted." The university has filed a complaint and plans to seek a temporary restraining order. Harvard spokesperson Jason Newton stated that the government's action is "retaliatory" and "threatens serious harm to the Harvard community and our country."

Harvard's Response:
Harvard has filed a lawsuit against the federal government in response to the revocation of its authorization.

The university is working to provide guidance and support to affected students.
Harvard president Alan M. Garber emphasized the importance of international students to the university's community and academic mission.

Reactions from International Students:
Leo Gerdén, an international student from Sweden, found the announcement "devastating" and urged Harvard to fight the DHS decision using all available resources.
Karl N. Molden, another international student, expressed widespread panic among students and faith in Harvard's ability to push back against the Trump administration's efforts

France has introduced new legislation to combat unwanted telemarketing calls, which will require companies to prove that individuals have given their explicit consent before being contacted. The law, expected to come into effect in August 2026, aims to protect citizens from harassment and potential scams. According to a recent survey, 97% of French people find these cold calls irritating, with many using tactics such as spoofing phone numbers to reach their targets.
The legislation was prompted by the failure of a existing service, Bloctel, to effectively prevent spam calls. Minister Amelie de Montchalin emphasized that the law will safeguard vulnerable individuals, including the elderly, from falling victim to massive fraud schemes. Senator Pierre-Jean Verzelen, who promoted the measure, stated that companies will have a year to adapt to the new regulations, after which there will be no exceptions.
The law will allow companies to contact individuals only if they have an existing contract or have given explicit consent. This move is part of a broader effort to protect citizens from unwanted marketing and potential scams. Spain is also considering similar action, with its government proposing that telecom operators block calls from firms not using a dedicated prefix to identify themselves as commercial callers.

Severe flooding has devastated eastern Australia, particularly in northern New South Wales, leaving 50,000 people isolated and four dead. The floodwaters, which have engulfed homes and roads, are starting to recede, revealing widespread damage. Over 2,000 workers have been deployed to aid in the cleanup and rescue efforts, with more than 600 people rescued so far.

The region received an extraordinary amount of rain - equivalent to half a year's worth in just three days - breaking flood records in some areas. State Premier Chris Minns described the flooding as unprecedented, with water levels not seen since 1920 in some local tributaries and rivers.

Residents and business owners are assessing the damage, with many expecting a long and challenging recovery process. The government has declared a natural disaster, unlocking additional resources for affected areas. Experts warn that climate change is likely to fuel more extreme weather patterns, citing this week's flooding as evidence of its impact.

The disaster zone stretches across a fertile region of rivers and valleys, with salvage crews preparing to embark on a massive cleanup operation. As waters recede, the full extent of the damage is becoming clear, with homes and businesses severely affected.

Nguyễn Thị Thành, Vietnam’s legendary street food chef known globally as the “Lunch Lady,” has died of cardiac arrest in Toronto at the age of 58, just days before the grand opening of her new restaurant in Canada.



The heartbreaking news was announced on May 21 via Instagram by the team behind The Lunch Lady restaurant in Vancouver — her first overseas culinary venture, which opened in 2020 in collaboration with Vietnamese-Canadian chef Michael Tran.

According to the South China Morning Post, Thành had just arrived in Toronto to prepare for the opening of her second Canadian restaurant, scheduled for June 3, when she suffered a sudden cardiac arrest. Emergency medical teams were unable to revive her.

Nguyễn Thị Thành rose from the bustling streets of Đa Kao Ward in Ho Chi Minh City’s District 1 to international stardom after a chance encounter with the late American celebrity chef Anthony Bourdain in 2008. Bourdain, known for his deep appreciation of authentic street cuisine, was captivated by her rotating daily menu of Vietnamese noodles, soups, and broths. He dubbed her the “Lunch Lady” — a nickname that stuck and made her an icon in global culinary circles.

“She served a different dish every day, and every one was unforgettable,” Bourdain said at the time. The praise from Bourdain — and later, media attention from around the world — turned her tiny food stall into a global foodie pilgrimage site.

Michael Tran, her business partner and founder of The Lunch Lady Vancouver, penned a heartfelt tribute:

“Cô Thành wasn’t just the heart and soul of The Lunch Lady. She was a mother, a mentor, and a quiet master of her craft. Her food told stories. Her presence made people feel seen. Her legacy lives in every bowl, every herb, every careful moment in the kitchen.”

Thành’s influence extended far beyond Vietnam. Her humble, rotating menu concept inspired a wave of modern Vietnamese eateries. She showed the world that extraordinary flavor doesn’t need white tablecloths — just heart, history, and herbs.

Plans are being made to bring her body back to Vietnam. In Ho Chi Minh City, fans and loyal customers are preparing to honor her with tributes at the original stall where it all began.

A queen of street food has left the table — but her legacy will simmer on forever.

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President Donald Trump recently unveiled plans for a massive, multi-billion dollar "Golden Dome" missile defense system for the United States, which he anticipates could be operational within approximately three years. Speaking from the Oval Office alongside Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, Trump asserted that this advanced system, once fully built, would be capable of intercepting missiles launched from anywhere in the world, including space, making it "the best system ever built."


The president specified that the chosen architecture for the "state-of-the-art" system will integrate next-generation technologies across land, sea, and space, including space-based sensors and interceptors. U.S. Space Force Gen. Michael Guetlein, the vice chief of space operations, has been tasked with overseeing this ambitious project.

Trump estimated the total cost of the "Golden Dome" to be around $175 billion, noting that an initial $25 billion has already been allocated in the upcoming year's defense funding package. He emphasized the critical importance of this endeavor for the nation's "success and even survival," citing the dangerous global landscape. Furthermore, Trump mentioned that Canada has expressed interest in joining the project.


For months, the president has advocated for a U.S. missile defense shield akin to Israel's highly effective Iron Dome. He had previously urged Congress in March to fund a "state-of-the-art Golden Dome shield to protect our homeland" and, in January, shortly after taking office, signed an executive order mandating the creation of "The Iron Dome of America."

While Trump remains optimistic about completing this colossal undertaking before his term concludes, analysts have voiced skepticism regarding the feasibility of developing such a comprehensive system for a country as vast as the United States, which is significantly larger than Israel.

Gerry Connolly, a prominent Democratic Congressman representing Northern Virginia and a strong advocate for the federal workforce, passed away on Wednesday at the age of 75. His family confirmed his death through a statement from his congressional office, expressing their pride in his enduring life's work and acknowledging the significant void his absence would leave.


Connolly had announced on April 28, 2025, that he would not seek re-election in 2026 and would step down as the ranking member of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform due to a recurrence of esophageal cancer. In an email to his constituents, he stated that his time in public service was nearing its end, conveying his joy in having served them.


He had initially disclosed his cancer treatment in November 2024. Despite this, just weeks later, he secured the position of ranking Democrat on the Oversight panel, winning a closed-door caucus vote against Rep. Alexandra Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.).

As the former chair of the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, Connolly represented a district with a large population of government employees, for whom he was a consistent champion. In 2010, while seeking re-election, he highlighted his district's high education levels and its understanding of economic drivers, stating, "They know how they’re employed; they know what generates economic activity. And it isn’t to say we embrace big bad government, not at all. We care about the deficit. I’m a deficit hawk. We believe the budget ought to come closer to balance — but not with a meat cleaver, with a scalpel."

During the Trump administration, Connolly became a vocal defender of U.S. government workers. In May 2025, he criticized President Trump and the Department of Government Employees (DOGE), stating, "Since day one, Trump and DOGE have wasted no time attacking the federal workforce, mercilessly slashing funding for life-saving services, and ripping away Americans’ access to basic necessities."

Connolly's interests also extended to global affairs. From 1979 to 1989, he worked as a staffer on the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, authoring reports on American foreign policy. In Congress, he served on the House Committee on Foreign Affairs and participated in various caucuses focused on international relations. In 2024, he was elected acting president of the NATO Parliamentary Assembly, an organization dedicated to addressing challenges faced by NATO member states. Rep. Mike Turner (R-Ohio), a former president of the Assembly, praised Connolly in April 2025 for his "relentless in his pursuit of establishing a Centre for Democratic Resilience at NATO headquarters, which will recognize the importance of strengthening democratic institutions across NATO allies and partner nations.”




Born Gerald Edward Connolly on March 30, 1950, in Boston, his family had historical ties to the Kennedys. He once remarked, upon his father's passing in 2016, that his father's role as a "Boston Democratic ward committeeman and a delegate to the 1962 state convention that nominated Ted Kennedy to the U.S. Senate" instilled in him a lifelong passion for politics and public service.


Connolly initially considered a career in the priesthood, spending several years studying at a seminary. In a 2012 interview, he explained his motivation: “I wanted to be a priest. I grew up in an Irish Catholic home and was the product of a Catholic education. I liked the message of the church and wanted to help other people.” However, he ultimately felt the church was not sufficiently engaged with major political issues of the time, such as the Vietnam War, leading him to pursue a different path. He studied literature at Maryknoll College in Illinois before attending Harvard’s Kennedy School of Government.


In that same 2012 interview, Connolly reflected positively on his career trajectory, stating, “I’ve never lost an election, and that’s everything from being the president of my high school, president of my college, president of my graduate school at Harvard, a twice-elected national delegate, president of my freshman class in Congress and I’ve won eight elections. This will be my ninth. But I’m very wonkish. I really love public policy.” His electoral victories included his 1995 election to the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, his elevation to board chair in 2003, and his 2008 victory for an open House seat against Republican Keith Fimian. In a close 2010 rematch against Fimian, he narrowly secured the win, commenting, “While trees were falling all over the woods, this one didn’t,” after Fimian conceded.

Potential Dangers of Combining Durian with Certain Foods and Beverages
Durian, a fruit known for its unique flavor and aroma, is also packed with beneficial nutrients like vitamins, minerals, fiber, protein, and various phytonutrients. Dr. Huynh Tan Vu of Ho Chi Minh City University of Medicine and Pharmacy Hospital highlights its numerous health advantages, including strengthening the immune system, aiding digestion, reducing inflammation, lowering blood pressure, and potentially even preventing cancer, supporting thyroid function, easing joint pain, and alleviating symptoms of anxiety and depression.


However, despite its health benefits, durian should not be consumed with certain other foods and beverages due to potential adverse reactions.

Here's why you should avoid pairing durian with these items:

Alcohol: Consuming durian alongside alcohol can significantly increase internal body heat. For individuals with pre-existing conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes, this combination can lead to severe symptoms like headaches, heart palpitations, and in extreme cases, internal bleeding or stroke.

Certain Meats and Seafood: Durian is naturally high in sugar, potassium, and fat, and has a high glycemic index. When eaten with fatty meats like beef, lamb, or dog meat, or with seafood—all of which are rich in saturated fats and protein—this combination can cause a sudden and significant surge in blood cholesterol levels.

Spicy Foods: Given durian's inherent "warming" properties, it is advisable to avoid eating it with spicy ingredients such as chili, ginger, garlic, or pepper. This particular combination can lead to feelings of restlessness and general discomfort.

Coffee: Durian contains sulfur compounds that can interfere with the enzyme aldehyde dehydrogenase when combined with the caffeine found in coffee. This inhibition prevents the body from effectively neutralizing a large percentage (up to 70%) of oxidants within cells, potentially leading to a buildup of toxins and other negative health effects.