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Sheikh Hikmat al-Hijri has condemned recent violence near Damascus as a genocidal campaign against Druze minorities, claiming at least 101 people were killed. The conflict began after an audio clip of a Druze scholar went viral on social media, leading to the deaths of Sahnaya’s former mayor and 70 civilians, including 30 loyalists and 21 fighters. The Syrian government reached a deal with Druze dignitaries but ongoing tensions persist as foreign intervention remains firmly rejected by Damascus.

Microsoft is thrilled to launch its AI Skills Fest, offering free training until May 28th for all skill levels. Attendees can dive into diverse topics like Minecraft Education and GitHub Copilot tutorials, even after the event ends. The fest has shattered a world record with over 126k participants in one day, showcasing the demand for AI education.

Andrew Hastie, the shadow defence minister, revealed his decision not to run for the Liberal party leadership, citing personal challenges like raising young children and a long commute from Perth. His colleague Sussan Ley became the party’s first female leader following the election defeat, marking a significant milestone in Australian politics. Hastie emphasized that while he had a desire to lead, timing played a role in his decision, which has implications for how the Liberal party will shape its future under new leadership.

Find yourself a great deal with the Baseus Bowie MC1 Open Ear Clip-On Earbuds for just $39.99—save 44% from their original $70 price! This stylish pair features a unique hook-ear design that securely fits your ears, perfect for sports and fitness. With an open ear shape, you can hear your surroundings while working out or running. Water-resistant IP57 protection ensures durability, and control options are easy to use with buttons or the mobile app. At this price point, they offer a great balance of comfort and sound quality, making them a top choice over pricier alternatives like Shokz or AirPods. Trust IGN for reliable tech deals you’ll love!

Arsenal faces intense pressure to reach the Champions League final against Paris Saint-Germain as manager Mikel Arteta emphasized the need for a historic performance after their first-leg loss at home. Despite only trailing 1-0, Arsenal hasn't reached the final since 2006 and relies on key saves from goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma to secure crucial wins, while their recent form and Partey's return aim to turn things around but with tough challenges ahead.

A Chinese paraglider named Peng Yujiang survived an extraordinary ordeal when he was accidentally carried more than 8,000 meters high by a strong updraft after attempting a flight without proper preparation. Despite his intention to test new equipment, he nearly exceeded the height of Mount Everest before landing safely with a friend shortly after. His dramatic experience captured on camera later sparked widespread admiration and shock online as it trended viral. However, authorities found it an accident and banned him from flying for six months, while his friend Gu Zhimin faced additional restrictions following the incident.

A team of researchers discovered that the Mongolian Arc, part of China's Medieval Wall System, was primarily a shallow ditch rather than a thick stone wall. This suggests it was used to control border movements and manage regions rather than defend against invaders. The findings hint that past dynasties emphasized civilian infrastructure for both power symbols and trade purposes.

Sad Socket’s 9 Kings is a strategic roguelike where you build and manage your kingdom while playing through its unique card-based system. From the King of Nothing to the King of Spells, each King offers a different approach, pushing players to balance strategy with chaos. With its deep card pool, dynamic economy, and unpredictable progression, 9 Kings captivates players who love strategic deckbuilders and unpredictable roguelikes.

Don Quijote, a popular Japanese discount chain, is booming thanks to its unique mix of affordable yet trendy products like noopdeedop products and colorful party costumes, attracting both locals and tourists amid inflation. In Shibuya's busy stores, hundreds of visitors rush to fill their bags with snacks, souvenirs, and soufflé-like items from the narrow aisles. One tourist shares how the overwhelming variety and multilingual signage left them "overwhelmed" at first.

Judge Brian Murphy has criticized President Trump’s handling of deportations to South Sudan, claiming the actions may violate his court order forbidding such deportations. In a Boston hearing, Murphy accused the administration of contempt for allegedly ignoring an injunction requiring migrants to appeal their removal. While the Department of Homeland Security argued that information about the flight was classified, the judge emphasized the importance of due process and fair hearing under the Fifth Amendment. This case highlights Trump’s broader strategy to deport immigrants to countries with significant human rights concerns, including South Sudan and Libya.

Nomura's profits surged last quarter, exceeding both expectations and analyst forecasts as the Tokyo-based brokerage benefited from thriving equity markets following Donald Trump's presidency. The firm reported ¥72 billion in net income, up 27% year-over-year, surpassing estimates of ¥63.9 billion on average. Nomura is expanding its operations, including potential returns to cash prime brokerage in key markets like the U.S. and Europe after acquiring an asset management business.

The article highlights a security feature on Apple devices where users must press and hold the Home button for confirmation, adding an extra layer of protection against unauthorized access or bot interference.

Fourteen residents of Kanna, Gunma, experienced severe health issues after consuming contaminated tap water. Among those affected were children under 9 and individuals in their 80s, who exhibited symptoms including diarrhea, fever, and abdominal pain. Authorities linked the contamination to agricultural water entering the water supply reservoir, prompting residents not to drink tap water and instead use bottled water as a precaution.

Daniel Seavey's health has unfortunately compelled him to postpone all remaining shows on his "Second Wind" tour, with vocal cords rendering him unable to perform. Despite the last-minute decision, he expressed heartfelt gratitude to his fans for their understanding and support, promising to reschedule all shows as soon as possible. The singer, whose album was released three years after his band went on hiatus, will kick off a new tour aimed at restoring his health ahead of his first show in Perth this summer.

Microsoft expanded its Xbox cloud gaming initiative by rolling out the Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription to select LG smart TVs in 25 countries this week, marking a significant step beyond just console hardware. The update supports a range of LG models, including updated OLED and QNED TVs, with plans for additional availability through StanbyME screens later. This move complements Microsoft's broader strategy to offer the Xbox experience without requiring physical console ownership, following similar initiatives by Samsung and Amazon Fire TV.

Excited for fans of sports and entertainment, Fox One could be the ultimate streaming destination, offering everything from NFL games to Fox News. Launching before the NFL season in early September, it promises a one-stop hub for premium content, combining sports, news, and shows like *Bob's Burgers*. Find more details at [link].

Dorit Kemsley is making a major chapter in her life as she files for custody of their two children and steps away from her wedding ring days after announcing her divorce from Paul. The “Real Housewives of Beverly Hills” star, who once flaunted her massive diamond ring at galas, now ditched it while dropping the kids off at dance practice in her Range Rover—no makeup included. Meanwhile, her ex is reportedly seen with one of Ryan Seacrest’s old flames, adding to the ongoing tension that may have led to their split.

The author recently made a vow never to record concerts on their phone, inspired by seeing a fan's frustration with others watching concerts online. They reflect on how recording at live shows has often been done intentionally for social media, creating FOMO and capitalizing on exclusivity tied to ticket prices. The trend is further amplified during major tours, where capturing the best moments can become a race with its own perks but also risks losing the moment itself. Despite this, the author acknowledges that not everyone can attend every concert twice, and while others record for public service, it often disrupts personal experiences.

Mongolian Prime Minister Luvsannamsrain Oyun-Erdene resigned after losing a confidence vote amid widespread protests in Ulaanbaatar over corruption allegations. Speaking afterward, he emphasized his commitment to serving during challenging periods like pandemics, wars, and economic struggles.

In Ghent in 2020, journalist Bieke Depoorter encountered Henk, a man who spent hours gazing at the moon through a telescope, sparking her curiosity about why he held such a deep connection to the cosmos. Her new book, *Blinked Myself Awake*, weaves memoir and imagery to explore astronomy's history, stargazing practices—both amateur and professional—and how photography reflects objectivity while capturing moments of human wonder. Depoorter is particularly drawn to people observing the sky, as it mirrors their inward reflection in an age dominated by screens. Her work highlights the intimate link between gazing at the stars and inward thought.

Bianca Galic sealed a remarkable victory for Central Coast Mariners in the A-League Women grand final with a decisive penalty against Melbourne Victory after 120 minutes. The match turned into an intense eight-shot shootout, with Alana Jančevski narrowly missing the first but being saved by goalkeeper Courtney Newbon. Despite Melbourne Victory's strong efforts and VAR-assisted saves from Sarah Langman, the Mariners' team showcased heart and determination under coach Emily Husband, who navigated significant challenges to guide them through the match's climax, securing their first title.

**Expedition 33** delivers a visually stunning and strategically rich turn-based RPG experience, blending mythological characters with an expansive world that captivates even as it challenges navigation without detailed mini maps. Its dynamic combat system, influenced by games like Final Fantasy and Paper Mario, emphasizes strategy and reflexes, making it a standout choice for players seeking both action and depth in its narrative-driven exploration.

The rare white-faced darter dragonfly is making a comeback in Cumbria's South Solway Mosses national nature reserve as part of conservation efforts to save its declining population. The insect thrives in acidic habitats, which are being restored through peatland revitalization and the creation of mossy breeding pools. However, challenges such as habitat destruction from drainage and agriculture, alongside warmer and drier summers due to climate change, threaten the dragonfly's recovery. Experts hope reintroduction will stabilize the population within five years, with early translocations already underway in 2025, supported by the British Dragonfly Society.

"Digital rage is on the rise! A report reveals that 91% of consumers experience frustrating digital service issues within a year, leading to potential backlash, revenue loss, and damaged reputations. The study shows poor digital experiences cost businesses significantly: 55% abandon purchases, 50% switch brands, and 39% cancel subscriptions. Keith Zubchevich emphasizes the growing demand for seamless customer experiences but warns that businesses must address 'thousand little cuts' affecting different customer groups, resulting in higher churn without noticeable issues."

Bing has rolled out an AI-powered video tool called Bing Video Creator, which uses OpenAI's Sora to generate short videos based on text prompts. Available free in the mobile app now, it will soon come to desktops and Copilot Search. Microsoft has invested heavily in OpenAI, bringing its DALL-E image generation to Bing last year.

"The debate over free speech on American campuses, such as at Columbia University and UNC, centers on balancing individual freedom with collective responsibility. Advocates highlight its importance under the First Amendment but warn of risks when speech crosses legal boundaries. Critics emphasize the dangers of violent protests and the need for a safe learning environment. The tension reflects broader societal values and legal considerations."

The US Justice Department has accused Judge Hannah Dugan of obstructing immigration agents, sparking tension over President Trump’s hardline policies. Federal agents arrested her for allegedly refusing to hand over an undocumented migrant after immigration officers arrived in her court, helping him evade arrest by allowing him exit through a jury door. Despite brief appearances and public support, she was released on bail and scheduled to enter a plea later. The case highlights ongoing clashes between the Trump administration and courts over enforcement tactics.

Mark Carney, Canada’s prime minister and election contender, surprisingly cited "China" as the biggest threat to national security during a debate. His answer, coming after previously working with Chinese entities, has drawn criticism for creating a new political divide in an already heated election. Analysts note his attempt to distance himself from past ties to China amid heightened scrutiny of his work there.

The Japanese government is exploring full-scale discussions to increase its LNG imports from the U.S., positioning this move as a strategic leverage in potential trade negotiations with the United States. The U.S.-Japan talks aim to address Washington's demand for measures Japan will take to reduce its trade surplus, while the U.S. seeks similarly to lower tariffs. In 2024, Japan imported $3.8 billion worth of LNG from the U.S., ranking it fourth among major suppliers after Australia, Malaysia, and Russia.

"Unlock Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 with IGN’s interactive map, which locates must-visit spots, collectibles, shortcuts, and upgrade items like Chroma for swift progression. Defeat bosses such as Mimes, Story Bosses, and optional opponents while managing resources through Merchant locations and Lost Gestrals using the map. IGN guides further support your journey by offering strategic tips to optimize gameplay."

Team Beef, known for bringing popular first-person shooters like Doom and Quake to VR headsets, is set to release a Counter-Strike 1.6 VR port soon. Available on Quest and Pico devices, this conversion allows players to enjoy the game without relying on streaming or third-party software. Early access is available via Patreon at $6.50/month. Gameplay clips from Dust 2 show action-packed moments with unique controls and UI elements reminiscent of the original PC version. Fans hoping for a true VR experience are in for a treat, as this marks the group's first attempt to fully realize CS 1.6 in virtual reality.

Jimmie Johnson, the seven-time NASCAR Cup Series champion and one of motorsports’ most decorated drivers, joins forces with WME to expand his influence across brand representation, team ownership, and media, including his Sirius XM podcast “Never Settle” with Marty Smith. Known for his 83 career wins and record-breaking consecutive playoff appearances, Johnson also appeared in films, TV shows, and even voiced an animated lobster named Jimmie on “Bubble Guppies.” Currently a part-time racer driving the No. 84 Toyota Camry XSE for Legacy Motor Club, WME will continue to provide strategic support as he balances his racing career with other ventures.

Disneyland is celebrating its 70th anniversary with a new tribute to Walt Disney, bringing him back as an Audio-Animatronic in a show called *Walt Disney - A Magical Life*. The exhibit features reimagined looks of Walt in his Burbank home and classic projects like Mary Poppins and Disneyland's earliest plans. Tom Fitzgerald noted how excited Walt is about sharing his life's work. Meanwhile, the park will also showcase never-before-seen Disneyland history through a gallery called *Evolution of a Dream* and highlight Disney cast members' impacts on the parks.

Reddit was shaken when AI bots impersonated users on its platform, raising concerns about authenticity and potential revenue loss from OpenAI. The bots posted over 1,700 comments, mimicking personas like abuse survivors or controversial figures, threatening the site's core identity. In response, Reddit filed a complaint with the experiment's university and announced plans to collaborate with third-party services to verify user humanity without requiring personal details. This move comes amid growing scrutiny from other social media companies, which are also implementing ID checks for added security but face challenges in balancing privacy concerns with platform integrity.

Aaron Paul thrilled fans with his role in "The Midnight Pool," a psychological thriller about a journalist entangled in an elite society seeking a career-defining story. Directed by James McTeigue ("V for Vendetta"), the film follows Johnny Black (Paul), whose descent into illusion and manipulation propels him toward a gripping narrative. Paul praised McTeigue's world, while McTeigue expressed how Aaron Paul's performance brought a thrilling dynamic to their collaboration. The film is set to shoot in Europe this year, with McTeigue already excited about the partnership.

The Oklahoma City Thunder secured their place in the NBA Finals with a thrilling 124-94 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves in Game 5 of the Western Conference finals, becoming the second youngest team since 1976-77 to reach the Finals. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the charge with an impressive 34-point, eight-assist performance, while Chet Holmgren and Jalen Williams contributed key points as the Thunder dominated both ends of the court. The team’s explosive offense and relentless defense, highlighted by a 17-point halftime lead against just nine points in the first quarter, set them up for their next challenge against the Indiana Pacers in the Eastern Conference finals.

Mike Waltz, Trump’s former NSAD, faced a security breach involving his use of TeleMessage, an official app from Smarsh. The hack exposed sensitive messages during a cabinet meeting. Smarsh suspended all services as a precaution. Waltz, now under interim assignment by Trump, continued using the app despite being fired last day, adding a journalist to his Signal group before the breach.

The student protester Mohsen Mahdawi, advocating for Palestinian rights at Columbia University, was detained under President Trump's administration as part of a broader crackdown on anti-Israel protests. A judge in Vermont has now granted his release pending his graduation, sparking debates about the implications of targeting pro-Palestinian speech and the balance between free expression and immigration policies. Critics argue this move signals overreach into academic affairs, while supporters highlight Mahdawi's commitment to justice and democracy amid the administration's antisemitic claims.

The Trump administration is investigating whether Apple's collaboration with Alibaba to integrate AI features into iPhones sold in China could result in data sharing between U.S. and Chinese tech companies, sparking concerns about its impact on U.S.-China relations. A report by *The New York Times* highlighted questions from White House officials and Congress about the terms of the deal, which has only been publicly confirmed by Alibaba. Representative Raja Krishnamoorthi criticized Alibaba as a symbol of China's military-civil fusion strategy, while acknowledging that ongoing U.S.-China tensions present other challenges for Apple, including tariffs.

"As U.S. tariffs on Chinese goods hit stride, shipping from China to the West Coast has taken a dramatic nosedive, with retailers like Seroka anticipating a more than third-of-normal volume drop in cargo next week. The port optimizer cites a 35% decline in Asia-bound shipments, while companies brace for even steeper cuts as import orders dwindle amid the economic fallout from tariffs announced by Trump earlier this year."

Efforts to locate an Air Self-Defense Force training aircraft that crashed shortly after takeoff in Aichi Prefecture remain ongoing. The jet, along with two crew members, is believed to have been lost. Search teams have recovered parts of the aircraft and equipment from a reservoir near the crash site, where oil slicks were also observed. The Defense Ministry confirmed these findings. In an Upper House meeting, Defense Minister Gen Nakatani apologized for the incident and emphasized the government's commitment to recover the crew and aircraft.

While trade-war minutiae dominate headlines in Washington, the quiet yet significant devaluation of the yen looms as a central issue. The U.S. administration has hinted at revoking President Trump’s July 2021 declaration of a Yuan peg, suggesting a potential "Plaza Accord 2.0" to stabilize the currency—referencing the historic 1985 agreement that strengthened the yen during the 1980s trade war with Japan. However, Japan remains steadfast in its belief that market forces should dictate the value of its currency, rejecting any government intervention. Meanwhile, discussions over U.S.-Japan tariffs have sidestepped the yen issue altogether, barely touching on it at all or only superficially.

In the nostalgic days of the 1990s internet, parents were left to fend for themselves as their children navigated the vast, unfiltered world of the World Wide Web. Now, with generative AI tools like ChatGPT reshaping how we interact with technology, Google has stepped in to protect its own future generation, launching a kid-friendly version called Gemini for users under 13. Parents can control access through Google Family Link and discuss AI's ethics with their kids before letting them explore this new tool. While some accounts already have Gemini set up, not all are available yet, with plans to expand access gradually.

In a high-stakes meeting in the Oval Office, President Trump sparked controversy by calling out white South Africans, positioning himself as their protector amid allegations of racial violence, despite evidence to the contrary.

Hundreds of thousands of Haitians are being torn from their homes and sent across a dangerous border following mass deportations ordered by the Dominican Republic, despite calls from the UN to halt the operation due to escalating violence and hunger in Haiti. The move has deepened family separations and fear among residents, as immigration agents use physical traits to identify those they deem as Haitian. Families are struggling to reunite, and officials face pressure over detaining vulnerable groups like breastfeeding women and children, highlighting the human cost of this crackdown on a nation in turmoil.

President Donald Trump's decision to eliminate the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) marks a significant blow to an independent agency tasked with protecting consumers from harmful products. In a surprising move, the President fired three Democratic commissioners without cause, leading to resignations and accusations of arbitrary rule-making. The firings raise questions about accountability in high-stakes regulatory roles, with Commissioner Mary Boyle stating she believes her duties were being hindered by the Acting Chairman. Meanwhile, legal battles over these actions are ongoing, potentially shaping the future of consumer protections under Trump's administration.

New mothers in Japan face significant financial challenges, often struggling to meet basic living expenses. To address this, Save the Children Japan introduced the Hello! Baby Box initiative in 2022, providing essential baby supplies to those who need it most. A survey conducted among 254 eligible women revealed that 80% lack sufficient funds for daily needs, underscoring the program's importance in alleviating these burdens and improving child care costs for vulnerable mothers.

The "naked dressing" trend, which began with Adam and Eve in the Bible and has evolved over the decades, continues to gain popularity as more women opt for revealing outfits like sheer gowns at events such as the Grammys. However, fashion houses are now taking a more conservative approach, banning or restricting provocative red-carpet displays ahead of major events like the Cannes Film Festival. Despite these rules, some argue that enforcing them stifles creativity and individual expression.

TikTok's mental health content can be both a blessing and a curse—offering access to various perspectives but also spreading misinformation about conditions like anxiety, depression, and trauma. A study revealed that half of the top #mentalhealthtips videos contain inaccuracies or harmful tips, with experts identifying four main issues: oversimplifying mental health disorders, using misleading language, promoting ineffective treatments, and sharing anecdotal evidence. Meanwhile, platforms like Meta are either slow to address misinformation or have taken a hands-off approach, leaving TikTok's users to navigate the minefield of online mental health information on their own.

Twitch saw a quiet April streaming landscape, with total hours watched dropping slightly compared to February despite two extra days. Major game releases were missing, keeping viewership steady but down from March. However, Call of Duty: Warzone dominated, with 45 million hours watched—a 146% increase—thanks to the return of its beloved Verdansk map. Meanwhile, streamer Caedrel continued to lead Twitch's April total with his League of Legends commentary as Los Ratones won EMEA Masters.