China
Landslides in Guizhou Leave
2 Dead, 19 Missing
On 22 May, heavy rains triggered landslides in Guizhou province, southwestern China, resulting in at least two deaths and 19 missing persons. Rescue operations are ongoing as authorities navigate challenging terrain and continued rainfall. The disaster underscores the region’s vulnerability to extreme weather events, prompting calls for improved infrastructure and emergency preparedness.
Australia
Catastrophic Floods Devastate New South Wales
Starting on 20 May, a slow-moving low-pressure system unleashed torrential rains across New South Wales, Australia, leading to catastrophic flooding. The Mid North Coast and Hunter Valley regions were hardest hit, with towns like Taree and Coffs Harbour submerged. Five people lost their lives, and over 170 flood rescues were conducted. Authorities described it as a 1-in-500-year event, prompting both state and federal governments to activate disaster funding. This disaster underscores the increasing frequency of extreme weather events linked to climate change.
U.S.
Senate Passes ‘No Tax on Tips’ Act
On 20 May, the U.S. Senate unanimously passed the ‘No Tax on Tips’ Act, a bipartisan bill aimed at exempting tipped income from federal taxation. The legislation is part of broader efforts to provide financial relief to service industry workers. The bill now moves to the House of Representatives for consideration.
U.S.
Supreme Court Upholds Revocation of TPS for Venezuelans
On 19 May, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that the Trump administration could revoke Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for approximately 350,000 Venezuelan immigrants. The decision allows the administration to proceed with plans to end protections, potentially leading to mass deportations. Immigration advocates have expressed concern over the humanitarian implications of the ruling.
Africa
Trump-Ramaphosa Meeting Sparks Diplomatic Tensions
During a state visit on 21 May, U.S. President Donald Trump confronted South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, alleging a ‘genocide against Afrikaners.’ President Ramaphosa strongly denied the claims, leading to diplomatic tensions between the two nations. The incident has drawn criticism from international observers, who view the allegations as unfounded and potentially harmful to bilateral relations.
Israel
Two Israeli Embassy Staff Killed in Washington, D.C.
On 21 May, two Israeli embassy staff members were shot and killed outside the Capital Jewish Museum in Washington, D.C., after attending an event. The suspect, Elias Rodriguez, was arrested at the scene and charged with two counts of first-degree murder. The motive remains under investigation, and the incident has heightened security concerns for diplomatic personnel in the U.S.
UK
UK Disposable Vape Ban Spurs Panic Buying and Smoking Fears
Ahead of the UK’s 1st June ban on disposable vapes, users are stockpiling their favourites, worried the change will push them back to smoking. The government cites environmental and youth health concerns, noting five million disposable vapes are binned weekly. Retailers report soaring demand, while users remain sceptical about reusable options. A recent poll shows 18% of disposable vape users may resume smoking once the ban kicks in. Critics warn the ban could undermine years of tobacco harm-reduction progress.
India
Fire in Hyderabad Building Kills 17
A devastating fire broke out on 18 May in a three-story commercial building in Hyderabad, India, resulting in 17 deaths. Preliminary investigations suggest the fire was caused by an electrical short circuit. The incident has raised questions about building safety regulations and enforcement in urban areas.
GAZA
Israeli Airstrike Kills Nine of Gaza Doctor’s Children
An Israeli airstrike in Khan Younis, Gaza, on 23 May 2025, targeted the home of Dr. Alaa al-Najjar, a paediatrician at Nasser Hospital, resulting in the deaths of nine of her ten children. Her surviving 11-year-old son, Adam, sustained severe injuries and is currently undergoing treatment. Dr. al-Najjar’s husband, also a doctor, was critically injured but survived. The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) stated that the strike targeted militants operating near IDF troops, and the claim regarding civilian casualties is under review. The incident has drawn widespread condemnation and raised concerns over the impact of military operations on civilians.
Trump Administration Blocks Harvard’s International Students
On 22 May, the Trump administration revoked Harvard University’s certification to enroll international students, citing alleged ties to the Chinese Communist Party and campus antisemitism. The move endangered visas for over 7,000 students. Harvard filed a lawsuit, and a federal judge issued a temporary restraining order halting the ban. The administration also froze $2.2 billion in federal grants and threatened the university’s tax-exempt status. Harvard President Alan Garber condemned the actions as unlawful and detrimental to the academic community.
