Officials in Tokyo alarmed as cases hit record highs

13 Sept 14:27 Key points summarised by AI

Tokyo reported a third consecutive day of record-high COVID-19 cases, reaching 3,865 on Thursday, marking an unprecedented surge since the pandemic began.
Japanese officials expressed severe alarm over the rapid and widespread expansion of infections across Tokyo and the country, stating they have 'never experienced' such a magnitude of spread.
Experts attribute the surge to factors like the Olympics, summer vacation, and the highly infectious Delta variant, warning of imminent severe strain on Tokyo's already stressed medical system, with hospitals postponing procedures.
Governors of neighboring prefectures plan to request emergency status, while Tokyo's governor urged Olympic organizers to avoid burdening hospitals and called on young, largely unvaccinated residents to take precautions against the dangerous Delta strain.

Sihasak urges Thais in Europe to stay alert as protests spread

Yesterday 12:06 Key points summarised by AI

Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow advises Thai nationals in Europe to avoid protest areas and reconsider non-essential travel, citing widespread unrest in countries like France, Italy, and Spain.
The warning comes as demonstrations escalate, with some turning violent, prompting concerns for safety and leading to an emergency Cabinet meeting in Italy and a proposed postponement of diplomatic talks.
Thai embassies and the Department of Consular Affairs issue advisories, urging citizens to monitor local developments, follow official announcements, and register their travel details for assistance, while emphasizing that no Thais have been directly affected yet.