Hamas launches surprise attack as gunmen enter Israel

1 Oct 22:40 Key points summarised by AI

Hamas initiated a large-scale surprise attack on Israel, combining extensive rocket fire from Gaza with ground incursions by gunmen into multiple Israeli towns.
The unprecedented assault resulted in gunbattles across southern Israel, casualties, and reports of Israeli citizens and soldiers being taken captive.
Israel declared a state of war, launching retaliatory air strikes on Gaza and mobilizing reservists, with officials condemning Hamas's "grave mistake."
Hamas military commander Mohammad Deif claimed 5,000 rockets were launched, calling the operation "the greatest battle to end the last occupation on earth."

Bai Lu meet-and-greet cancelled days after China’s safety warning

Yesterday 15:28 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand's Tourism and Sports Minister announced the government will seek clarification from the Chinese Embassy regarding its recent travel advisory warning Chinese nationals about safety concerns in Thailand.
The travel advisory is anticipated to negatively impact the number of Chinese tourists visiting Thailand, despite recent increases in arrivals.
A meet-and-greet event featuring Chinese actress Bai Lu, a WeTV Global Ambassador, was abruptly cancelled just days after the Chinese Embassy issued its safety warning, though no official reason was provided.
The Chinese Embassy's advisory urged citizens to beware of job scams, fraudulent investments, suspicious travel arrangements, and the risk of illegal detention or being lured to the Thai-Myanmar border.
Chinese nationals were advised to verify job offers, use legitimate transport, avoid high-risk border areas, protect personal documents, and keep family informed of travel plans.