Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) launch a security crackdown in Hasaka, aiming to integrate over 9,000 Asayish members into Syrian internal security forces. Meanwhile, Israel's Finance Minister announces plans for over 2,000 new settlement homes in the West Bank, drawing condemnation and warnings of escalation.
China has ordered Meta to reverse its $2 billion acquisition of Manus, a Singapore-based AI startup with Chinese roots, in a decision elevated to the National Security Commission chaired by Xi Jinping. The move underscores Beijing's determination to protect its technology ecosystem and talent base, demonstrating that 'Singapore washing' does not shield companies from Chinese regulatory extraterritoriality. The case follows similar blocked deals like Qualcomm-NXP and Nvidia-Arm, illustrating China's use of antitrust law as economic statecraft.
Home Minister Amit Shah outlined BJP's election promises for West Bengal at a Ranaghat rally, including implementation of Uniform Civil Code, ban on triple talaq, ending polygamy, Rs 3,000 monthly for women and unemployed youth, free bus travel for women, and crackdown on cattle smuggling and infiltrators. He criticized previous governments for soft approach to terrorism and highlighted BJP's national security record. Phase I polling recorded 91.78% turnout with Phase II on April 29 and counting on May 4.
