A large asteroid, estimated to be the size of three CN Towers stacked, is set to pass Earth this weekend at its closest approach since the 17th century. Experts continue to monitor its trajectory as it nears our planet.

President Trump has threatened to implement a 100% tariff on nations imposing a digital services tax on U.S. companies. He stated that any country proceeding with such a tax would face immediate import duties, overriding existing trade agreements. Approximately half of OECD European members have proposed or enacted similar taxes.

A plane crashed into Beijing’s CITIC Tower, breaking apart upon impact with the city’s tallest building, leaving two windows damaged.

Europol reported a significant rise in organised crime within the EU, identifying 731 active criminal networks comprising over 400,000 members. Drug trafficking remains predominant, with cybercrime rapidly increasing. Law enforcement aims to dismantle these networks by targeting their financial structures and promoting cross-border collaboration.

What’s going on?
Iran has launched an attack on a vessel in the Strait of Hormuz, disrupting maritime traffic in the region. The incident coincided with the UN’s efforts to facilitate the evacuation of ships. This escalation has raised concerns regarding shipping safety and international trade routes.

NBC News framed the event as “Hormuz traffic flows despite ship attack as Iran fights to keep its grip on key trade route.” In contrast, CNN stated, “Iran strikes vessel, pausing UN efforts to evacuate ships from Hormuz.” NBC’s headline focuses on the ongoing shipping operations despite tensions, while CNN emphasises the setback for UN efforts following the attack.

Coverage analysed: NBC News | CNN

A Moroccan court sentenced 29 individuals, including politicians and sports figures, to prison terms of up to 12 years for their roles in an extensive drug trafficking and corruption scheme. The trial, linked to notorious trafficker El Hadj Ahmed Ben Brahim, revealed a network transporting Moroccan cannabis resin and cocaine across North Africa and Europe.

The residence designated for the prime minister has been classified as uninhabitable for several years. Currently, Prime Minister Mark Carney is living at Rideau Cottage, as the government seeks solutions for the notorious condition of the official residence.

Leon Black, co-founder of Apollo Global Management, is set to testify before the House Oversight Committee regarding his financial dealings with Jeffrey Epstein. Senator Ron Wyden has questioned Black’s payments exceeding $170 million for services purportedly related to tax advice and estate planning, amid ongoing scrutiny over Epstein’s criminal activities.

A 14-year-old boy has been charged with the murder of 14-year-old Lilly in Blaina, Wales, after her body was discovered in Duffryn Park. The suspect, who cannot be named for legal reasons, has been remanded in custody and is set to appear in Newport Magistrates’ Court on Friday.

Rescue missions continue in Venezuela following two powerful earthquakes, with nearly 50,000 people missing and at least 235 confirmed dead.