Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant declared a new phase in the war following explosions in Lebanon that killed 20 people and injured over 450. This escalation came after at least 12 were killed a day earlier when pagers used by Hezbollah members exploded. Israel is ramping up its military response, with Defence officials stating they have not yet fully activated their capabilities. Hezbollah accused Israel of breaching its communications, but Mossad’s alleged involvement remains unconfirmed. The violence has intensified tensions, raising concerns about a broader conflict.

In Lebanon, at least 20 people have been killed and over 450 injured following a second wave of explosions involving hand-held radios. The blasts occurred during funerals for victims of an earlier attack using pagers. Hezbollah claimed responsibility for the cross-border attack into Israel, though the US has denied involvement and cautioned against escalation. The violence has led to widespread panic and fear in Beirut, with numerous casualties and heightened security concerns. Hezbollah operatives were seen removing the devices from the scene, as angry and distressed residents faced further turmoil.

A study in the UK trialed reducing pint sizes to two-thirds in 13 pubs, bars, and restaurants to promote public health. Led by Professor Dame Theresa Marteau from the University of Cambridge, the trial showed a 10% decrease in beer sales, suggesting reduced consumption could lessen alcohol-related harm. Although some resistance from venue owners was expected due to income loss, Marteau emphasized that smaller portions lead to lower consumption. The study highlighted the potential benefits of reducing alcohol intake and called for policy changes to support such initiatives.

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) stated that Saudi Arabia will not recognize Israel without the establishment of an independent Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital. Speaking at an annual address to the Shura Council, MBS condemned Israeli actions against Palestinians and emphasized the kingdom’s commitment to the Palestinian cause. This comes after the Saudi-US-backed normalization talks with Israel were halted following the October 2023 war between Israel and Hamas. MBS had previously indicated that Saudi Arabia was close to normalizing ties with Israel, but the conflict shifted the kingdom’s diplomatic priorities.

Japanese firm Icom is investigating reports that its discontinued walkie-talkies were involved in deadly explosions in Lebanon. The company clarified that the devices, out of production since 2014, required batteries discontinued nearly a decade ago. Icom stated, "We are currently investigating the facts surrounding this matter." The explosions, which have claimed 20 lives and injured over 450, occurred in Hezbollah-controlled regions of Lebanon. This follows the detonation of pagers used by Hezbollah members, causing 12 deaths and 2,800 injuries the day before. While Israel has not commented, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant hinted at a “new phase in the war.”

Walkie-talkies used by Hezbollah exploded across Lebanon on Wednesday, killing 14 people and injuring over 450. The explosions occurred just a day after similar blasts involving pagers rocked the southern region and Beirut’s suburbs, where Hezbollah holds significant influence. One of the blasts took place during a funeral procession for Mahdi Ammar, son of Lebanese MP Ali Ammar. Hezbollah has accused Israel of infiltrating their telecommunications system, leading to these explosions. Mossad is suspected of planting explosives in pagers used by the group. Tensions are rising as Hezbollah retaliates with rocket attacks on Israeli artillery.

Ukrainian drones targeted a missile warehouse deep in Russia’s Tver region, about 300 miles from the border, on September 18. The strike triggered a massive explosion, obliterating the ammunition depot. A Ukrainian security official confirmed that the attack was orchestrated by military intelligence and special forces, describing it as a complete destruction of the facility. This comes amid Ukraine’s efforts to convince Western allies to lift restrictions on the weapons supplied for such operations. The attack underscores Ukraine's growing capability to hit military targets far inside Russian territory.

Sadiq Khan, the Mayor of London, has unveiled plans to pedestrianise a 0.7-mile stretch of Oxford Street, aiming to restore its former retail prominence. The street has been heavily impacted by the rise of online shopping and the Covid-19 pandemic. Backed by Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner, the project is expected to boost economic growth by creating jobs and revitalising London's night-time economy. However, Westminster City Council, responsible for the area, has expressed concerns over practical challenges. The £150 million project will require collaboration between local businesses, funders, and the council for its execution.

14 people have died and over 300 were hurt after walkie-talkies exploded in Hezbollah-controlled areas in Lebanon. The blasts occurred a day after similar explosions involving pagers, which left 12 dead and thousands wounded. Hezbollah blamed Israel for the attacks, calling them a "massacre." Israeli spy agency Mossad allegedly planted explosives in communication devices used by Hezbollah. The explosions have heightened tensions between Hezbollah and Israel, leading to further cross-border violence. Iran-backed Hezbollah has vowed to retaliate and continue supporting Hamas in Gaza.

The UK has launched a campaign urging immigrants, including Indians, to switch from physical immigration documents to eVisas. By December 2024, many biometric residence permits (BRPs), visa vignette stickers, and biometric residence cards (BRCs) will expire. The government aims to fully digitize its immigration system, making eVisas the standard. The switch is free, secure, and prevents issues like lost or stolen documents. The UK government is providing £4 million in support for those needing help with the process. A nationwide ad campaign will raise awareness and encourage action before the deadline.