Vietnam’s top tourist destination flooded after record rainfall

Vietnam is facing a devastating situation as record rains and floods have resulted in the tragic loss of nine lives and affected over 100,000 homes, particularly in popular tourist destinations like Hue and Hoi An. This disaster not only poses immediate dangers to residents but also threatens the local economy, which heavily relies on tourism. With more rain predicted, the urgency for aid and recovery efforts is critical.

The tragic deaths of Greta Otteson and Arno Quinton from methanol poisoning in Vietnam have sparked urgent calls for intervention from political leaders, including Keir Starmer. This incident highlights the dangers associated with unregulated alcohol production and the need for stricter safety measures to protect travelers. As more people venture abroad, ensuring their safety from such preventable tragedies becomes increasingly important.

The BBC has expressed deep concern for the wellbeing of one of its journalists who has been barred from leaving Vietnam and subjected to intense interrogation by local authorities. This troubling incident highlights ongoing issues of press freedom in Vietnam, especially as it coincides with a significant visit by Vietnam's leader to the UK. The journalist, a Vietnamese citizen residing in Thailand, had returned to Vietnam to renew their passport, only to find themselves caught in a situation that raises serious questions about the treatment of media professionals in the country.

The BBC has expressed deep concern over a journalist who has been unable to leave Vietnam due to authorities withholding their renewed passport. This situation highlights the ongoing challenges faced by journalists in restrictive environments, raising questions about press freedom and the safety of media professionals. The implications of such actions can affect not only the individual journalist but also the broader landscape of journalism in the region.

Vietnam is facing severe flooding in the historic city of Hue, where the weather agency has reported record rainfall levels for a 24-hour period. This situation is alarming as it not only disrupts daily life but also threatens the preservation of Hue's rich cultural heritage. The impact of such extreme weather events highlights the growing concerns about climate change and its effects on vulnerable regions.

The former imperial city of Hue in Vietnam is facing severe flooding after experiencing nearly two meters of rainfall in just 24 hours, breaking a record that stood since 1999. This extreme weather event highlights the growing impact of climate change, which scientists warn is making such storms and floods more frequent and destructive. With almost half of Vietnam's population living in flood-prone areas, this situation underscores the urgent need for climate resilience and disaster preparedness.

India has initiated a cloud-seeding trial over New Delhi to combat the severe smog that has been choking the city. While the intention is to induce rainfall and improve air quality, the move has sparked anger among residents who are concerned about the effectiveness and potential side effects of such interventions. This situation highlights the ongoing struggle with air pollution in urban areas and raises questions about the best methods to address environmental challenges.

Trump's recent departure from the ASEAN summit leaves many unanswered questions regarding trade in Southeast Asia. His agreements with Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia fail to tackle crucial issues like transshipment and semiconductor tariffs, which are vital for the region's economic stability. This oversight could hinder trade relations and economic growth in these countries, raising concerns among local businesses and governments.

Hadush Kebatu, a migrant sex offender, was forcibly deported and received £500 after threatening to disrupt the process. This incident raises concerns about the treatment of deportees and the implications of such threats on immigration policies.

In the Women's Cricket World Cup semi-final, England is set to chase a challenging target of 320 runs after South Africa's Wolvaardt scored an impressive 169. This match is crucial as it determines who will advance to the finals, highlighting the competitive spirit and skill in women's cricket. England, known for their strong fielding, will need to perform exceptionally to overcome this daunting challenge and secure their place in the championship.

In a significant political move, MPs have rejected Nigel Farage's proposal for the UK to leave the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR). The Liberal Democrats emphasized that the ECHR is crucial for protecting the elderly and vulnerable populations in society. This decision highlights ongoing debates about human rights and national security in the UK, reflecting concerns over the implications of such a departure on the most at-risk individuals.

GSK's CEO Emma Walmsley has emphasized the need for Britain to reform its drug pricing system to establish itself as a leader in life sciences. Her comments come as GSK's shares rise due to increased profits, and she expresses optimism about resolving ongoing issues with the NHS regarding medicine costs. This reform is crucial not only for GSK but for the broader UK economy, as it could enhance access to innovative treatments and attract more investment in the life sciences sector.

In South Korea, progressive groups and opposition politicians are rallying against the US, coinciding with Donald Trump's optimistic remarks about an upcoming summit with China. This protest reflects growing tensions regarding US influence in South Korea, especially as Trump finalizes a trade deal with South Korean leader Lee Jae Myung. The situation highlights the complexities of international relations and domestic sentiments, as many South Koreans express their discontent with US policies.

A new book delves into the 60-year-old mystery surrounding the disappearance of Moroccan politician Mehdi Ben Barka in Paris, just before a significant meeting with the French President. This gripping narrative not only uncovers new insights but also reignites discussions about political intrigue and historical events that have shaped relations between France and Morocco. The authors' findings are crucial as they shed light on a case that has puzzled many and highlights the ongoing impact of political disappearances.