19 October 2026

Daily Brief · 25 stories
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World

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World

France counts mass arrests after cost-of-living protests turn violent

French authorities reported more than 1,800 arrests after protests over living costs and school conditions brought clashes, arson and looting. Hundreds of police and emergency personnel were injured. Damage spread across several cities, including serious damage to Limoges' historic town hall, while arrest and injury figures remained provisional.

World

Egypt backs Saudi defence as parliament weighs military mandate

Egypt's National Defence Council pledged support for Saudi Arabia following Houthi attacks on Riyadh's airport and oil facilities. President Sisi sought authority to provide defensive assistance if requested. Parliamentary discussions were due to continue on Monday. The council called for diplomacy and did not specify a troop deployment.

World

Europe demands action after settlers attack diplomats in West Bank

The EU condemned an Israeli settler attack on European diplomats near Taybeh in the occupied West Bank. A French mayor said he was beaten while accompanying Palestinian olive farmers. France and Belgium demanded prosecutions; Israeli police opened an investigation. The incident followed an assault on an American photojournalist.

World

Ukraine strikes oil and technology sites around St Petersburg

Ukrainian drones hit oil, logistics and data facilities around St Petersburg, with Russian authorities reporting one death and 15 injuries across the city and surrounding region. Fires broke out at energy sites and warehouses. Ozon reported damage, while VK said its services remained available despite a strike on a data centre.

World

Seven arrested after Kolkata Puja crush kills 19 people

Police arrested seven people after a crowd crush at Kolkata's Chorbagan Durga Puja pandal killed 19 and injured dozens. Organisers and security personnel are among those held. Authorities are examining crowd controls and CCTV footage, while the state announced compensation and temporarily restricted entry to other busy Puja venues.

World

Japan sets launch for first sample return from Mars moon

Japan's MMX mission is scheduled to launch on 20 October to collect at least 10 grammes from Phobos, a moon of Mars. The samples could help explain how Mars's moons formed. Arrival is expected in 2027, with a planned return to Earth in 2031. Launch is set for 1:41am Bangladesh time.