China using AI to expand global influence, US officials warn
China is turning to AI to boost its propaganda efforts abroad, a new report reveals. A Chinese firm linked to the state, GoLaxy, has been tracking individuals and gathering data on US lawmakers, while running influence operations in Hong Kong and Taiwan, according to Firstpost.
Though no direct activity has been seen in the US, officials are watching closely, warning that AI could soon be used to sway political debates or elections.
Experts say AI is reshaping propaganda, making it faster, broader, and harder to detect—marking a new chapter in global information warfare, Firstpost reported.
Israeli military opposes Netanyahu’s Gaza expansion plan
Israel’s military chief Eyal Zamir has warned Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu against expanding operations into remaining parts of Gaza, saying it could trap troops and endanger hostages.
In a tense meeting on Tuesday, military leaders argued that 75 percent of Gaza is already under control and further expansion risks long-term entanglement. They also pushed back against proposals to impose military rule or rebuild settlements, according to Firstpost.
Netanyahu, under pressure to secure a ceasefire and free hostages, criticized the army for failing to rescue captives. Defense Minister Israel Katz later said the military will carry out government decisions despite internal disagreements.
Trump's sweeping new tariffs take effect against dozens of countries
US President Donald Trump's sweeping new tariffs on more than 90 countries around the world have come into effect, BBC reported.
"IT'S MIDNIGHT!!! BILLIONS OF DOLLARS IN TARIFFS ARE NOW FLOWING INTO THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA!," Trump said on social media minutes before the deadline in Washington, DC.
Earlier, the president hit India with a 50% tariff, which will take effect on 27 August unless it stops buying Russian oil.
Trump also threatened a 100% tariff on foreign-made computer chips as he pushes tech firms to invest in the US. It came as Apple announced a new $100bn (£75bn) US investment after coming under pressure from the White House to move more production to America, according to BBC.
Myanmar’s acting President Myint Swe dies after a long illness
Myint Swe, who became Myanmar’s acting president under controversial circumstances after the military seized power from the elected government of Aung San Suu Kyi more than four years ago, died on Thursday, the military said. He was 74, Associated Press reported.
He died at a military hospital in the capital, Naypyitaw, on Thursday morning, according to a statement from Myanmar’s military information office.
Myint Swe’s death came more than a year after he stopped actively carrying out his presidential duties after he was publicly reported to be ailing.
His funeral will be held at the state level but the date has not been disclosed, a separate statement from the military information office said, according to Associated Press.
