On October 1, Israel’s military reported that Iran launched over 200 missiles targeting key areas. Israeli residents scrambled to bomb shelters. In response, U.S. President Joe Biden ordered American military support to help Israel intercept the missiles. The Israel Defense Forces confirmed the attack and warned of further retaliation.
South Korea warns North of ‘Kim regime’s end’ over nuclear weapon use
South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol warned North Korea’s Kim Jong Un that using nuclear weapons against Seoul would end his regime. Speaking on Armed Forces Day, Yeol highlighted North Korea’s growing nuclear threats, including its recent uranium enrichment facility disclosure. He also emphasized the strong US-South Korea alliance, backed by thousands of US troops stationed in the country.
Russia proposes record defense budget for Ukraine victory pursuit
The Russian government plans to allocate a record 32.5% of its 2025 budget for defense, up from 28.3% this year, as it aims to succeed in the Ukraine war. The draft budget proposes nearly 13.5 trillion rubles (over $145 billion) for national defense, significantly increasing from 2024. As military spending strains the economy, President Putin is exploring ways to sustain the war effort, while Ukraine seeks continued support from allies. The budget will undergo three readings in parliament before final approval.
‘The country is lost’: Lebanon gripped by fear as Israel invades
In recent days, Lebanon anticipated an Israeli ground invasion in the south as Israel signaled its campaign against Hezbollah would extend beyond the death of leader Hassan Nasrallah. The Israeli military has confirmed a “limited, localized, and targeted” operation, raising fears of a broader conflict. Historical precedent shows Israeli troops can easily enter Lebanon but struggle to exit. Lebanese citizens express despair, with one friend stating, “The country is lost,” and others predicting a long, difficult period ahead, hoping for the best.
Chinese woman arrested in Germany for arms firm espionage
A Chinese woman, Yaqi X, 38, has been arrested in Leipzig for allegedly passing sensitive information about Leipzig/Halle airport to Chinese intelligence. Working for a logistics firm at the airport, she reportedly sent details on flights, passengers, and military cargo to Jian G, a previous suspect linked to the far-right AfD party and detained earlier this year. Prosecutors claim Yaqi X provided Jian G with information on military equipment transport related to Germany’s largest defense company, Rheinmetall, which supplies weapons to Ukraine. Yaqi X has been remanded in custody, and searches were conducted at her home and workplace.
