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German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Friday announced a suspension of all military equipment exports that could be used in Gaza, following Israel’s approval of operations to occupy the territory, according to Xinhua.

Merz urged Israel to avoid further moves toward annexing the West Bank and voiced concern over the worsening humanitarian situation in Gaza. He called on Israel to grant full access for aid deliveries and to take sustained steps to improve conditions for civilians.

At least 10 people have died and 33 remain missing after flash floods swept through Gansu province in northwestern China, state media reported Friday. The floods, triggered by days of heavy rain since August 7, have damaged roads and villages, leaving streets coated in silt and debris, according to Al Jazeera.

President Xi Jinping has ordered “all-out” rescue efforts and urged authorities to step up disaster prevention amid increasingly frequent extreme weather. China has faced record rainfall in recent weeks, with severe flooding killing over 60 people across the north, including Beijing, since late July.

US Vice President JD Vance has arrived in the UK for a working visit, starting with a meeting with British Foreign Secretary David Lammy. The trip will include cultural visits and meetings with US troops, Firstpost reported.

Known for his “America First” stance and sharp criticism of Britain’s Labour Party, Vance’s visit comes amid heightened transatlantic tensions. Despite political differences, Vance and Lammy share a personal connection through faith.

Discussions will likely focus on Ukraine, Gaza, and trade. Protests are expected, reflecting opposition to Vance’s policies seen during his previous US trip, according to Firstpost.

China has lodged a strong protest against Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr’s recent remarks that the Philippines could not stay out of a conflict over Taiwan. Speaking during a visit to India, Marcos highlighted the country’s large Filipino community in Taiwan and said the Philippines would be drawn into any all-out war there to protect its people, Firstpost reported.

In response, China reaffirmed its “One China” policy, stressing that Taiwan is an inalienable part of China and that the issue is a core internal matter. Chinese officials warned Manila against interfering in what they consider China’s sovereign affairs, despite geographic proximity and Filipino ties to Taiwan.

Marcos’s comments come amid escalating South China Sea tensions and reflect the Philippines’ push for stronger strategic partnerships, including with India, to bolster regional security. The Chinese embassy in Manila also lodged formal protests over the remarks, according to Firstpost.