Frequent AI chatbot use linked to belief in anti-vaccine myths, poll finds

• The World Economic Forum (WEF) warns that the global economy is shifting from globalization toward geo-economic fragmentation. • A full economic decoupling between Eastern and Western powers could result in a massive loss of up to $6.9 trillion from global GDP.

• The U.S. military presence in the Indian Ocean and along the maritime Silk Route is described as an "occupation" linked to its ongoing conflict with Iran. • This geopolitical tension has disrupted oil and gas supplies, causing energy costs to soar for emerging economies across South and Southeast Asia.

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Seychelles to expand India's defense diplomacy and strengthen maritime security in the Indian Ocean region. • As part of the visit, India handed over the fast patrol vessel *Lespwar* ("hope"), along with ten utility vehicles, five laser-radial boats, and six ambulances.

• A new report highlights India's expanding global influence, driven by its strategic focus on diplomacy, defense, and development. • India has emerged as a primary voice for developing nations by leveraging key international platforms, including the G20, BRICS, and Global South initiatives.

• The United States and Iran have reached a preliminary agreement to pause hostilities and strikes in West Asia to prevent further escalation. • U.S. envoys Steven Witkoff and Jared Kushner met with mediators in Doha, Qatar, though Qatari officials clarified that no direct talks between the U.S. and Iran are currently taking place.

• The United States is reportedly accelerating its withdrawal from European security commitments following a diplomatic rift regarding support for the U.S.-Israeli conflict against Iran. • An upcoming NATO summit in Turkey is expected to serve as a pivotal transition point for the alliance's structure and strategic direction.

• Turkish Defence Minister Yasar Guler stated that NATO is adapting to a changing security environment rather than facing a crisis. • Guler dismissed concerns regarding a U.S. exit from the alliance, asserting that Washington is seeking better burden-sharing from European allies rather than withdrawal.

• Internal power struggles within the Iranian regime have intensified as rival factions clash over the direction of the country's nuclear talks. • The conflict has escalated beyond foreign policy disagreements, evolving into a bitter battle for political influence at the highest levels of government.

• UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called for a renewed global commitment to combat terrorism by addressing its root causes rather than relying solely on security measures. • Guterres warned that terrorist threats are evolving, emphasizing that a rights-based approach is essential to prevent radicalization and ensure long-term stability.

Home Office assessment shows new limits on human rights route based on family ties could result in another 11,700 claims turned downMore than half of the people whose asylum and visa claims will be rejected under tightened human rights laws will continue to live in the UK, according to the Home Office’s own assessment.Documents released on Tuesday show that plans to set new limits on article 8 of the European convention on human rights are expected to result in another 11,700 people having their claims rejected. Continue reading...

Federal government releases options paper to improve regulation of accounting, auditing and consulting firms. Follow today’s news liveGet our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcastIndependent Nicolette Boele backs childcare reformsThe independent member for Bradfield, Nicolette Boele, has backed calls for a national early childhood education and care commission to manage supply and improve safety regulation in the sector.If you’re in that position, hearing that the government is waiting for Deloitte to finish a report before they can increase the childcare subsidy, doesn’t hold up. Families can’t budget around a maybe. I’ve written to the minister, and I want the government to commit to a national commission with a firm timeline – not keep it on the “considering” pile. Continue reading...

Justices upheld laws in West Virginia and Idaho, boosting similar restrictions in 25 other statesTransgender youth athletes have vowed to keep playing sports and fighting for equal access to teams after the US supreme court ruled in favor of laws banning their participation.The court’s conservative supermajority on Tuesday upheld laws in West Virginia and Idaho prohibiting trans girls from participating in women’s teams, finding the laws were constitutional. Continue reading...