Thailand, Cambodia border tensions continue as talks conclude in Malaysia
As Thai and Cambodian officials meet in Kuala Lumpur to strengthen a fragile ceasefire, tensions remain high along their disputed border. Despite a truce brokered by Malaysia on July 28, both sides have accused each other of violations while continuing troop buildups, Al Jazeera reported.
Thai lawmaker Wasawat Puangpornsri, visiting the Nam Yuen border district, reported forces from both nations positioned just 50 metres apart. The standoff has stalled the return of 20,000 displaced Thai residents.
Locals remain on alert following deadly clashes in July, with many still sheltering and mourning losses. Officials continue damage assessments as fears of renewed fighting persist.
China using AI to expand global influence, US officials warn
China is turning to AI to boost its propaganda efforts abroad, a new report reveals. A Chinese firm linked to the state, GoLaxy, has been tracking individuals and gathering data on US lawmakers, while running influence operations in Hong Kong and Taiwan, according to Firstpost.
Though no direct activity has been seen in the US, officials are watching closely, warning that AI could soon be used to sway political debates or elections.
Experts say AI is reshaping propaganda, making it faster, broader, and harder to detect—marking a new chapter in global information warfare, Firstpost reported.
Israeli military opposes Netanyahu’s Gaza expansion plan
Israel’s military chief Eyal Zamir has warned Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu against expanding operations into remaining parts of Gaza, saying it could trap troops and endanger hostages.
In a tense meeting on Tuesday, military leaders argued that 75 percent of Gaza is already under control and further expansion risks long-term entanglement. They also pushed back against proposals to impose military rule or rebuild settlements, according to Firstpost.
Netanyahu, under pressure to secure a ceasefire and free hostages, criticized the army for failing to rescue captives. Defense Minister Israel Katz later said the military will carry out government decisions despite internal disagreements.
Trump's sweeping new tariffs take effect against dozens of countries
US President Donald Trump's sweeping new tariffs on more than 90 countries around the world have come into effect, BBC reported.
"IT'S MIDNIGHT!!! BILLIONS OF DOLLARS IN TARIFFS ARE NOW FLOWING INTO THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA!," Trump said on social media minutes before the deadline in Washington, DC.
Earlier, the president hit India with a 50% tariff, which will take effect on 27 August unless it stops buying Russian oil.
Trump also threatened a 100% tariff on foreign-made computer chips as he pushes tech firms to invest in the US. It came as Apple announced a new $100bn (£75bn) US investment after coming under pressure from the White House to move more production to America, according to BBC.
