Explainer

Public trust in social media is declining in Australia and globally, driven by concerns over misinformation and mental health impacts. While podcasts are viewed more positively, they too spread false claims. Critical thinking and accountability across platforms are essential

A global study reveals over 20 bird species use a shared call to warn against brood parasites like cuckoos. This call, both learned and instinctive, offers rare insight into language evolution, supporting Darwin’s theory on language origins

A study warns that pertussis (whooping cough) in infants can be life-threatening, often lacking typical symptoms. Researchers stress maternal vaccination during pregnancy as vital for newborn protection. Early antibiotic treatment and widespread immunisation remain key to preventing severe cases

A new US peace plan for Gaza, unveiled by President Trump and accepted by Israeli PM Netanyahu, proposes Israeli withdrawal, hostage-prisoner swaps, and an international force. Hamas is reviewing it. Critics say the plan may serve political aims more than peace

Kerala has seen rising drug incidents as Pakistan-linked Dawood syndicate, allegedly backed by the ISI, shifts meth trafficking via Sri Lanka into Kerala. Corruption, compromised prison staff, long coastlines and Nigerian facilitators enable large-scale smuggling into India and Southeast Asia

Saudi Arabia and Pakistan signed a Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement amid rising Middle East tensions. While echoing NATO-like terms, the pact aims at mutual protection without affecting Saudi-India ties. India remains cautious, considering Pakistan’s strategic alliances and Kashmir-linked Islamic support

As more nations recognise Palestine, the reality on the ground—fragmented by expanding Israeli settlements and political instability—raises doubts about viable statehood. Without diplomatic action to halt settlement growth, recognition risks becoming symbolic rather than supporting lasting peace or sovereignty

President Donald Trump escalated his campaign of political retribution, overseeing the indictment of former FBI Director James Comey and directing efforts to label liberal groups as domestic terrorists, sparking bipartisan concern over abuse of power and weaponization of federal agencies

Matcha, though rich in antioxidants and health benefits, may reduce iron absorption due to its polyphenol and phytic acid content. Excessive intake, especially near meals, can contribute to iron deficiency—particularly in menstruating women. Balance and timing are essential

In Uganda's Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, communities have shifted from poaching to conservation as tourism generates vital income. Named gorillas are treated with deep care, and reformed poachers now protect them, highlighting a powerful link between economic benefit and wildlife preservation

Charlie Kirk’s killing has exposed deep divisions in America, especially among Black clergy who reject his portrayal as a martyr, citing his history of racist and divisive rhetoric. His memorial, blending religion and politics, fuels debates over faith, race, and nationalism

Every 20 years, Japan's Ise Jingu shrine is entirely rebuilt using sacred cypress trees in a 1,300-year-old ritual. This spiritual renewal blends tradition, craftsmanship, and Shinto belief, symbolizing continuity, reverence for nature, and connection across generations

Estonia has invoked NATO's Article 4 after Russian jets violated its airspace, prompting urgent consultations among allies. This marks the second Article 4 request in two weeks amid growing eastern flank tensions, though it doesn't mandate military action

Climate change is driving marine species to migrate, with tropical fish appearing in temperate reefs like those off Sydney. Using environmental DNA (eDNA) alongside traditional surveys, scientists uncover hidden species movements, offering better insight into shifting marine biodiversity

Critically endangered yellow-crested cockatoos have found refuge in Hong Kong, but urban development threatens their nesting sites. Conservationists are installing artificial nest boxes to protect the birds, while illegal trade and habitat loss continue to endanger their survival globally

The viral spread of Charlie Kirk’s assassination video highlights growing concerns about unfiltered violent content on social media. Experts warn of serious impacts on young users’ mental health, urging platforms and regulators to act decisively to curb harm and enforce safety

Brazil’s Supreme Court justice Alexandre de Moraes led the conviction of ex-President Jair Bolsonaro for orchestrating a coup attempt, sentencing him to 27 years. Revered by some as a defender of democracy and reviled by others, de Moraes’ bold rulings polarized Brazil

Authorities are probing the motive behind the fatal shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk at Utah Valley University. Suspect Tyler James Robinson, 22, faces murder charges as political tensions rise. A memorial will be held in Arizona on September 21

An Israeli strike on Hamas officials in Qatar has sparked fears in Turkiye that it could be the next target. Ankara warns of regional escalation, boosts defences, and strengthens support for Hamas amid rising tensions with Israel in Syria and beyond

Conservative activist Charlie Kirk was fatally shot during a Utah Valley University event, triggering panic and nationwide shock. Known for his controversial views, Kirk’s death highlights rising political violence in the U.S. The shooter remains at large

After a meeting hosted by Emmanuel Macron, 26 nations pledged to form a “reassurance force” for Ukraine if a peace deal with Russia is reached. Meanwhile, a map and recent rhetoric suggest Putin’s territorial ambitions extend beyond occupied Ukrainian regions

A decade-long University of Montreal study shows declawing cats causes irreversible nerve damage, chronic pain, and mobility issues, especially in heavier cats. Despite bans in Europe and Quebec, the practice remains widespread in North America, demanding urgent global prohibition

A new study found extreme hot, dry and windy conditions fueling Iberian wildfires were 40 times more likely due to climate change. Fires in Spain and Portugal killed eight, displaced 35,000, and scorched 640,000 hectares, worsened by rural neglect and poor forestry management

AI models are now decoding animal emotions through vocalizations, aiding in welfare monitoring across species like pigs, cows, dogs, whales, and bees. While promising, the technology raises ethical concerns about overinterpretation, ecological cost, and human responsibility in responding to distress signals