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.

Indian firefighters achieved remarkable success at the 15th World Fire Fighter Games held in Aalborg, Denmark, from September 7 to 14. A team of 10 top players from India secured 21 medals: 8 gold, 11 silver, and 2 bronze. The medals were won in various events including relay races, hurdles, tug of war, wrestling, long jump, badminton, and chess. Notable performances include Mariyappan from Tamil Nadu with four golds and Sharad Kumar Tewatia from Delhi with multiple medals. The team’s achievements were celebrated upon their return to India.

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.

A US court has summoned the Indian government, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, and former R&AW chief Samant Goel following a civil lawsuit filed by Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. The lawsuit alleges a plot to murder Pannun, who heads the radical group Sikhs for Justice. The summons was issued by the US District Court for Southern District of New York, requesting a response within 21 days. India’s Ministry of External Affairs expressed concern and launched a probe. Despite the case, both nations maintain that India-US ties remain unaffected.

NASA’s “Hidden Figures,” Black female mathematicians and engineers who played pivotal roles during the 20th-century space race, were posthumously awarded the Congressional Gold Medal on Capitol Hill. Honorees include Mary Jackson, Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, and Christine Darden, who were celebrated for their critical work that helped NASA launch successful missions, including the first American astronaut to orbit Earth. House Speaker Mike Johnson praised their courage and contributions, saying they "laid the foundation for American space exploration." Their legacy, captured in the film “Hidden Figures,” continues to inspire future generations.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to address a rally in Srinagar today, part of the ongoing campaign for the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections. The rally will be held at Sher-e-Kashmir Park, where 30,000 supporters are expected. The BJP has fielded candidates in 19 out of 47 constituencies in the Kashmir region. Modi's speech will focus on thanking the public for their enthusiastic turnout during Phase 1 of voting, which saw a 61% voter participation. He will also meet with BJP candidates to boost morale ahead of the remaining election phases.

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.