Israel launched multiple airstrikes on Hezbollah's military headquarters in Beirut, Lebanon, on Friday. Israeli sources claim Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah was present at the time, but his fate remains unclear. The strikes are part of Israel's ongoing military operations against Hezbollah, escalating tensions in the region. Rescue efforts are underway as the Israeli military assesses the situation. The Lebanese government has condemned the strikes, calling for international intervention to prevent further escalation.

Three Just Stop Oil activists threw soup at two of Vincent van Gogh’s paintings in London’s National Gallery. This act of defiance followed the jailing of two activists for a similar stunt in 2022. The targeted artworks, including "Sunflowers," were unharmed, but the frames were slightly damaged. The group seeks to draw attention to the climate crisis and demand an end to fossil fuel licensing. The activists were arrested, and Just Stop Oil emphasized their stance against the UK government’s environmental policies.

Israel targeted Hezbollah’s central headquarters in Beirut on Friday, with residents reporting large blasts and smoke in the city’s southern suburbs. The Israeli military confirmed the strike, while rescue workers searched the rubble. The attack came shortly after Prime Minister Netanyahu’s address at the UN, where he rejected calls for an immediate ceasefire and warned Iran of Israel’s reach across the Middle East. Israel is reportedly preparing for a potential ground incursion in Lebanon as the conflict intensifies.

Dame Maggie Smith, renowned for her roles in Harry Potter and Downton Abbey, has died at 89. A statement from her sons reveals she passed peacefully in hospital, surrounded by family. Fellow actor Hugh Bonneville hailed her as a “true legend” with “sharp wit and formidable talent.” Smith's illustrious career spanned decades, earning her two Oscars and numerous accolades, including a Tony Award. She was an international star who captured hearts with her performances. The National Theatre described her as "one of the greatest actors" the UK has known.

Over 700 people have died in Israel's offensive against Hezbollah in Lebanon this week, with 25 casualties reported on Friday. Israeli forces have increased their military presence near the northern border, signaling an impending ground invasion. Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant emphasized the urgency of the situation, warning that Lebanon could face destruction if Hezbollah's rocket attacks continue. As Israel conducts heavy bombardments, over 30,000 people have been displaced, and countries prepare for evacuations of their citizens from Lebanon. The humanitarian crisis deepens as hospitals are overwhelmed with casualties.

At Labour’s annual conference in Liverpool, business leaders sought clarity on the party’s economic policies following its election victory. Chancellor Rachel Reeves hinted at a potential relaxation of fiscal rules to prioritize UK investment in the upcoming budget on October 30. Meanwhile, leader Keir Starmer urged executives to collaborate directly with the government. Labour’s “new deal for working people” aims to reform employment rights, including banning zero-hours contracts. Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds confirmed legislative plans will be announced by October 10, promising a maximum six-month probation period and protections against unfair dismissal.

Chaos erupted at Green Park Stadium in Kanpur on September 27, when Bangladeshi fan ‘Tiger Roby’ was allegedly assaulted by spectators during the second Test between India and Bangladesh. Roby reported being hit on his back and lower abdomen, leading to his hospitalization. Local police, however, suggested his condition was due to dehydration rather than an altercation. Roby claimed he had faced abuse from the crowd throughout the day and sought refuge in a balcony. This incident follows previous tensions between Indian and Bangladeshi cricket fans, highlighting ongoing security concerns.

In anticipation of Durga Puja, Bangladesh has granted a special permit for the export of 2,420 tonnes of hilsa to India between September 26 and October 12. This comes after a ban on hilsa exports since July 2012. The first shipment of 40 tonnes is expected to reach West Bengal via the Petrapole-Benapole border. However, concerns about low fish availability due to climate change and changes in natural movement cycles may limit actual procurement. Previously, only 587 tonnes were exported last September despite a 3,950-tonne export permit.

Storm Helene, which made landfall in Florida as a category four hurricane, has now weakened to a tropical storm but continues to pose "life-threatening" conditions. It has caused severe flooding in Georgia, where two people died, and in Florida, where a falling sign killed one. Over 3 million people are without power, with rainfall expected to reach up to 20 inches in some areas, leading to catastrophic flash flooding. Rescue efforts are ongoing, as communities assess the extensive damage across the southeastern United States.

Maggie Smith, the esteemed British actress celebrated for her roles in "Harry Potter" and "Downton Abbey," has passed away at 89. Renowned for her Shakespearian performances, Smith garnered two Oscars, an Emmy, and a Tony throughout her illustrious career. She first gained recognition for her portrayal of Desdemona in "Othello" (1965) and won her first Academy Award for "The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie" (1969). Her second Oscar came from "California Suite" (1978). In 1990, she was honored with a knighthood, becoming Dame Maggie Smith, leaving behind a remarkable legacy in film and theatre.