Rights groups and analysts say Iranian authorities are increasingly confiscating property belonging to Baha’is, dissidents and critics at home and abroad. They describe the seizures as both a tool of intimidation and a source of limited revenue amid severe economic pressure.
Belarus has agreed to release 25 prisoners as the United States prepares to ease sanctions on two companies, US envoy John Coale said. The sides also plan further talks on additional releases and sanctions, while rights group Viasna says more than 900 political prisoners remain detained.
Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte appeared before International Criminal Court judges for the first time in person as they considered claims about his memory and health. Duterte denies crimes-against-humanity charges linked to his anti-drug campaign; prosecutors say he is fit to exercise his trial rights.
The World Economic Forum says global gender parity has reached 69.2%, but full equality could still be 120 years away. Its 2026 report highlights declining female political representation, persistent gaps in senior leadership and a shortage of women in artificial-intelligence roles.
The US State Department has approved Aurelien Lechevallier, France’s choice as ambassador to Washington, after Paris apologised for criticism of US policy following a United Nations vote. Lechevallier is expected to take up the post in the coming weeks.
Raids, arrests and account blocks targeting LGBTQ+ activists and organizations in Turkey have prompted protests and condemnation from Turkish groups and EU officials. Authorities linked the operation to investigations into alleged obscene content and LGBTQ+ propaganda, while critics said it threatened fundamental rights.
Anne Applebaum argues that the United States is moving away from democratic-alliance leadership toward a more transactional approach to power. In the France 24 discussion, she says Canada and European governments are responding by exploring broader economic, political and security relationships.
A wave of arrests and raids in Turkey reflects a broader rollback of LGBTQ+ rights, experts told DW. They said governments often invoke family and child protection while using LGBTQ+ people as scapegoats during political or social crises.
A Defense Priorities Foundation study urges the United States to narrow its Indo-Pacific defense commitments and move forces behind the first island chain. Analysts cited by DW warn that abandoning alliances could weaken deterrence, expand China’s influence and damage cooperation on regional security and trade.
A Defense Priorities Foundation study calls for the United States to narrow its Indo-Pacific commitments and move forces away from the first island chain. Analysts told DW that abandoning alliances could weaken deterrence, expand China’s influence and damage regional cooperation, although there is no indication the White House will adopt the plan.
Serbia’s student movement has submitted a candidate list for the 25 October parliamentary election after a major demonstration in Belgrade. The movement emerged from protests over the Novi Sad railway station canopy collapse and is challenging President Aleksandar Vučić’s ruling party.
Dozens of white South Africans seeking resettlement in the United States have reportedly been rejected, despite an administration programme launched after Donald Trump promoted claims of persecution. Applicants cited criminal-history findings, alleged errors and misunderstandings, while USCIS said cases are assessed individually and rejections cannot be appealed.
Turkish police used tear gas to disperse a pro-LGBTQ rally in Izmir after nationwide raids led to dozens of arrests, according to AFP and France 24. Rights groups rejected the government’s family-values justification, while the European Union expressed concern about the arrests and proceedings.
European leaders meeting in Finland called for greater EU action in the Arctic as Russia’s military activity, China’s growing interest, climate change and competition for resources reshape the region. The summit declaration backs investment in infrastructure, military mobility, connectivity and critical raw materials ahead of an EU strategy update planned for 2026.
Twelve European countries urged the EU to adopt a more strategic role in the Arctic, citing climate-driven changes, emerging maritime routes and growing security concerns involving Russia. Leaders also discussed the need for icebreaking capacity ahead of a new EU Arctic strategy expected in the coming weeks.
Iran’s judiciary has frozen 182 bank accounts and confiscated property belonging to journalists, activists and public figures accused of supporting hostile governments. The measures come as arrests linked to protests reportedly exceed 6,000, while at least 532 people have been executed since January, including 29 connected to the demonstrations.
German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul is visiting Hungary as Berlin works to rebuild relations with Budapest. Separately, Germany’s homeownership rate has reached its lowest level in two decades, according to DW.
German prosecutors have charged a Berlin marketing executive with allegedly using political and military contacts to help a Russian intelligence officer access influential circles. They also accuse her of seeking information about Germany’s defense policy.
European leaders are discussing shipping, resources and security in the Arctic as pressure from the United States, China and Russia grows. The European Union considers the region increasingly important to its security as melting ice improves access.
Indonesian rescuers, including coast guard and navy personnel, resumed efforts Monday to find 129 people missing after a passenger ferry capsized in the Java Sea over the weekend. Officials said six people have been confirmed dead.
Turkish police arrested at least 60 people during raids on gay bars and LGBTQ activists’ homes, authorities said, describing the operation as a move to promote traditional family values. Rights groups, opposition parties and the European Parliament’s Turkey rapporteur condemned the action.
Iran is redirecting trade toward northern ports and overland routes amid a US blockade affecting southern shipping. Analysts say these corridors may sustain flows of essential goods but cannot fully substitute for maritime commerce.
Indonesian authorities intensified efforts to locate 129 people missing after a ferry overturned in bad weather in the Java Sea. At least six passengers have died, according to the supplied report.
US President Donald Trump downplayed reports that Chinese entities provided Iran with satellite imagery before a strike on a military base in Jordan. The attack killed three American soldiers, according to the supplied report.
Iran’s Atomic Energy Organisation chief is not expected to attend the International Atomic Energy Agency’s annual General Conference in Vienna, according to an official briefed on the matter. The official said he is barred from international travel, which would mark his first absence from the gathering in years.
A disability support worker says a police drug raid at an assisted-living home left three vulnerable women shaken. The residents reportedly continue to need assistance managing anxiety after the operation.