☰
Get the full BangkokScoop experience on your smartphone app.
President Donald Trump says US and Nigerian forces killed ISIS “second-in-command” Abu-Bilal al-Minuki in a complex mission in Africa. He called it a major counterterrorism success, thanked Nigeria, and said the strike weakens ISIS operations globally. Al-Minuki had been under US sanctions since 2023.
At least 65 people have died in a new Ebola outbreak in eastern DR Congo, with 246 suspected cases reported. Health officials fear a rare strain may be involved, raising concerns over vaccine effectiveness and possible cross-border spread in the region.
Powerful thunderstorms, lightning and dust storms swept across India’s Uttar Pradesh state, killing more than 100 people and injuring dozens. Homes, trees and power lines were destroyed as severe weather battered multiple districts. Authorities launched emergency relief operations and announced compensation for victims’ families.
Indonesia is reviewing its visa-free entry policy after authorities arrested more than 500 foreigners linked to online scam and illegal gambling syndicates. Officials say many suspects entered using visa waivers or visa-on-arrival schemes, raising concerns that Southeast Asia’s largest economy is becoming a new regional cybercrime hub.
US President Donald Trump arrived in Beijing for high-stakes talks with Xi Jinping focused on trade tensions, Taiwan, technology competition, and the Iran conflict. The visit comes as both powers seek leverage amid tariffs, AI rivalry, and growing geopolitical pressure across Asia and the Middle East.
