Australia to shut state border as Melbourne infections surge

13 Sept 16:47 Key points summarised by AI

Australia's two largest states, New South Wales and Victoria, are closing their border following a significant surge in COVID-19 infections in Melbourne.
Melbourne recorded its highest-ever daily increase in cases and two deaths, with the overwhelming majority of new infections stemming from community transmission, unlike other parts of Australia.
Victorian authorities have implemented lockdowns in 36-40 Melbourne suburbs and confined residents in nine public housing blocks to contain the widespread virus spread.
The unprecedented border closure, agreed upon by state and federal leaders, signals a 'new phase' of the pandemic in Australia, moving past previous federal opposition to internal border restrictions.

Macron condemns those who 'sought to bring down the Republic' after rioting mars nationwide protests

Yesterday 12:56 Key points summarised by AI

President Macron condemned widespread rioting and looting during nationwide protests, blaming far-left activists and criminals for the "unrestrained violence" and vowing accountability for those who "sought to bring down the Republic."
Over 2,400 arrests were made as protests against rising living costs and poor school conditions escalated, causing extensive damage to public buildings and businesses in cities like Paris, Limoges (where City Hall burned), Marseille, and Lyon.
The unrest, which organizers hoped would revive the "yellow vest" movement, saw political leaders trade blame, with Macron instructing prefects to protect public buildings and potentially ban future protests to prevent further disorder.