Tens of thousands of Israelis living abroad are preparing to return home to vote in the October 27 election, which could determine Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s political future. The Fly&Vote initiative estimates that around 67,000 expatriates may travel to Israel to cast their ballots. Israel generally does not allow citizens living overseas to vote by post or at embassies, requiring most to vote in person. Many returning voters oppose Netanyahu’s leadership and hope for a change in government. However, the actual number of returning voters and their political preferences remain uncertain, and the election is expected to be closely contested. (PC: The Telegraph)

Elon Musk has spent more than $442 million supporting Republican candidates and political groups ahead of the US midterm elections, according to a News18 report. The spending highlights the billionaire’s growing role in American politics as Republicans seek to strengthen their position in Congress. Musk, the world’s richest person, has previously supported Republican causes and backed Donald Trump. His financial contributions have made him a major political donor, drawing attention to the influence of wealthy individuals on election campaigns. The midterm elections will determine control of Congress and could shape the direction of the Trump administration’s policies. (PC: News18)

Protests across France turned tense as tens of thousands of people took to the streets, with police firing tear gas in Lyon and Marseille. In Bordeaux, demonstrators tore boards from shops and built barricades. Interior Minister said 135 people had been arrested nationwide. Police in Paris also seized weapons and gas masks. However, the demonstrations have not yet caused the widespread chaos seen during previous protests. Authorities banned several marches and imposed restrictions following last weekend’s riots and looting, which led to more than 2,700 arrests. Rainy weather also helped police maintain control, though tensions could rise after nightfall. (PC: BBC)

The United States is reducing staff at its embassies in Jordan, Lebanon, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates following intelligence warnings of alleged Iranian plots targeting American personnel. A memo sent by Director of National Intelligence Jay Clayton to Secretary of State Marco Rubio on October 23 said Iran had significantly increased efforts to target US personnel, with some suspected plots reaching advanced stages. US officials also cited threats from Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi rebels. The embassies will remain open under restricted operations, while staff in these 4 countries have not been ordered to leave. (PC: X)

Protests began across France on October 24, 2026, as students, trade unions and “Yellow Vest” demonstrators mobilised over rising living costs, housing concerns and underfunded schools. Authorities deployed around 70,000 security personnel to prevent a repeat of last weekend’s violence and looting. Shops and restaurants boarded up their premises, while major Paris attractions, including the Louvre and Musée d’Orsay, closed temporarily. Several metro stations were also shut, disrupting transport. Authorities restricted demonstrations in some cities amid security concerns, while protesters continued demanding government action on economic pressures and public services. (PC: AFP)

Iran has unveiled a provocative billboard installation in Tehran featuring an actor resembling US President Donald Trump inside a mock prison cell. Located at Tajrish Square, the display shows the impersonator pacing behind bars and taking naps, attracting crowds and public attention. The installation forms part of Tehran’s campaign accusing Washington of responsibility for civilian deaths, including a reported strike on a wedding gathering in southern Iran. Iranian authorities describe the display as a demand for justice. The United States maintains that its forces do not deliberately target civilians, amid continuing tensions between the two countries. 

France will deploy approximately 70,000 police officers nationwide on Saturday to prevent renewed violence during planned protests. The demonstrations began with students demanding better school conditions but have expanded amid growing anger over the rising cost of living. Last weekend’s unrest involved looting, arson and clashes with police. President Emmanuel Macron met student representatives, who urged continued protests until the government presents concrete solutions. Authorities have imposed restrictions on demonstrations in several cities and announced the closure of major Paris museums, including the Louvre. The unrest comes months before France’s next presidential election. (PC: Reuters)

The United Nations’ Fund for Responding to Loss and Damage has provisionally set aside $21.6 million for Nepal following devastating floods on August 26, 2026. The decision, taken on October 22, includes $20 million in potential assistance and $1.6 million for oversight costs. The disaster killed around 1,500 people, left thousands missing and caused extensive damage to infrastructure. Nepal estimates reconstruction needs at approximately $4.7 billion. This marks the fund’s first response to a specific climate-related disaster, highlighting growing calls for faster international climate finance for vulnerable countries. (PC: File)

French President Emmanuel Macron has condemned a suspected racist terrorist attack in Trappes and nearby La Verrière, west of Paris, on October 23, 2026. A gunman opened fire at three locations, including a petrol station, medical centre and children’s playground, killing one person and injuring five others, including a 12-year-old girl. The suspect, identified as Kevin T., was arrested within 20 minutes. Police recovered a submachine gun and tear gas from his vehicle, while investigators discovered suspected booby traps at his home. France’s anti-terrorism prosecutors are investigating whether racism or religious hatred motivated the attack. 

Final opinion polls ahead of Israel’s October 27, 2026, parliamentary election indicate that neither Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s bloc nor the opposition is projected to secure a clear majority. Surveys by Israeli broadcasters place Netanyahu’s coalition at around 50 seats, while the opposition bloc led by Gadi Eisenkot is projected to win between 52 and 56 seats. A party or coalition needs 61 seats in the 120-member Knesset to form a majority government. The results suggest potential political deadlock, making smaller parties and coalition negotiations crucial to determining Israel’s next government.