Sri Lankans are voting in the first presidential election since mass protests in 2022 led to the ousting of the former leader due to the country's severe economic crisis. The election is viewed as a key moment for voters to decide on economic reforms aimed at recovery. However, many citizens are facing hardships from increased taxes and cuts to subsidies and welfare. Analysts expect economic issues like inflation and the cost of living to dominate the election. President Ranil Wickremesinghe, who has been tasked with leading the country's recovery, is seeking another term to stabilize Sri Lanka's economy and regain public and international confidence.

Israel's military conducted a targeted strike in Beirut, resulting in at least 14 deaths and numerous injuries. Among those killed was Hezbollah's operations commander, Ibrahim Aqil, alongside other senior members of the group's elite Radwan unit. This marks Israel's third strike on Beirut this year, amid escalating cross-border tensions following multiple attacks on Hezbollah members, attributed to Israeli actions. The Lebanese health ministry indicates that the death toll may rise as rescue operations continue in the rubble. The situation remains critical, with 66 reported injuries, nine of which are in serious condition.

The Israeli military is reportedly recruiting African asylum-seekers to support its Gaza war efforts, offering permanent residency in return. Advocacy groups express skepticism over the fulfillment of these promises. As of 2020, around 30,000 asylum-seekers, mostly from Sudan and Eritrea, reside in Israel, but less than 1% of claims are approved. Critics argue that this recruitment exploits vulnerable individuals, noting that military service should not be a condition for refugee status. Amid a soldier shortage, questions persist about the transparency and legality of these practices.

In London, a rape offence is reported every hour, according to data from the Metropolitan Police, which recorded over 8,800 incidents in 2023—an average of 24 daily. Charities label these figures "horrifying," emphasizing that many assaults go unreported. Nearly a quarter of reports come from individuals under 18, with over 4,300 minors alleging rape or sexual assault last year. The Met has committed to addressing sexual violence, stating rape charges have more than doubled since 2022. Experts warn these figures may only reflect a fraction of the actual crimes occurring in the capital.

An Israeli military airstrike on September 20, 2024, in Beirut's southern suburbs killed eight people, including Ibrahim Aqil, a senior Hezbollah commander leading the elite Radwan unit. The strike, which targeted Hezbollah’s stronghold, also injured 50 people. The Israeli Defense Forces confirmed that Aqil and other top Hezbollah operatives were planning cross-border attacks against Israel. This marks the third airstrike in the area since the start of the Israel-Hamas war in 2023. Hezbollah responded by firing over 150 rockets at northern Israel, escalating tensions along the Lebanon-Israel border.

Vice President Kamala Harris appeared alongside Oprah Winfrey in a talk show-style campaign event, “Unite for America,” held in Michigan on September 19, 2024. The event, featuring celebrities like Jennifer Lopez, Chris Rock, and Julia Roberts, aimed to engage undecided voters. Harris spoke about unity, economic reform, and reproductive rights, pledging a $50,000 tax deduction for small businesses. She also addressed gun control, joking about her own gun ownership. Critics noted Harris's limited media appearances since becoming the Democratic nominee, but polls show a tight race with Donald Trump, with both candidates tied at 47%.

An Israeli airstrike in Beirut has reportedly killed eight people, including Hezbollah's Radwan unit commander Ibrahim Aqil. The Israeli military confirmed the "targeted strike," marking the third attack in southern Beirut since the recent escalation in violence. While Hezbollah has not officially confirmed Aqil's death, sources indicate he was a key figure linked to past attacks on U.S. interests. The strike follows intensified clashes along the Israel-Lebanon border amid shifting military objectives, raising concerns of a wider regional conflict as international mediators call for restraint from all sides.

Turkey has applied to the European Commission for "traditional specialty guaranteed" status for döner kebab, potentially impacting its preparation in Germany. The proposal mandates specific meat sources and preparation methods, raising concerns among German producers. Germany’s Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture expressed astonishment, emphasizing that döner kebab is part of German culture and should maintain its diverse recipes. The application has led to objections from various stakeholders, fearing economic consequences and legal challenges. As the decision looms, kebab shop owners are exploring alternative names to adapt to possible regulations.

In a press conference in the UK, lawyers representing 37 alleged victims described the late billionaire Mohamed Al Fayed as a "monster" and a "predator" who preyed on vulnerable individuals. Allegations include sexual abuse and exploitation at Harrods, the luxury department store he owned. One victim recounted being summoned to Fayed's apartment under false pretenses, where she faced sexual misconduct. Lawyers likened the case to those of notorious abusers like Jimmy Savile and Harvey Weinstein, highlighting a "system of abuse" that spanned Al Fayed's businesses. Harrods expressed its "utmost appall" at the allegations.

At Oprah's virtual town hall with Kamala Harris, actress Meryl Streep mistakenly addressed Harris as “President” before correcting herself. Streep’s slip came as celebrities like Chris Rock, Ben Stiller, and Julia Roberts expressed support for Harris’s presidential bid. Chris Rock highlighted Harris’s leadership, saying he looks forward to introducing his daughters to “this Black woman president.” Harris discussed critical issues like gun violence and reproductive rights, sharing a moment of reflection on the stakes of the upcoming election. With 47 days until the US election, polls show a tight race between Harris and Trump.