Earthquake Response in Indonesia: A magnitude-7.7 quake hit eastern Indonesia, killing at least 51 and injuring dozens, with about 5,000 evacuated as landslides blocked roads and rescuers searched for survivors across Flores. Hurricane Lala Threatens Hawaii: Tropical Storm Lala strengthened into a Category 1 hurricane, with heavy rain, strong winds and life-threatening flooding risks prompting emergency preparations on Hawaii’s Big Island. US–China AI Pressure: The US plans to tell dozens of countries to choose sides in the AI race with China, warning they could be excluded from a US-led AI coalition if they align with Beijing’s framework. Japan Remilitarisation Debate: Taiwan groups warned Japan’s neo-militarism could destabilize the Taiwan Strait, as North Korea also stepped up criticism of Japan’s defense shift. India–Myanmar Border Tension: Reports of a possible land adjustment in Manipur sparked concern, while India’s foreign ministry said only unsettled border portions remain under discussion. Regional Tech & Jobs: Philippines higher education officials pushed responsible AI and regional academic cooperation, while Indian states are targeting over a million jobs and 1,300+ GCCs by 2031. Sports Spotlight: India hosts the BWF World Championships in New Delhi, with PV Sindhu, Lakshya Sen and Satwik-Chirag among medal hopes. Energy & Trade: India set LPG production targets for refineries to build a domestic buffer after West Asia disruptions, while Strait of Hormuz shipping risks kept oil prices elevated.