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Lebanon
Hezbollah says Israeli strikes on Baalbek have killed eight members
Two Hezbollah have confirmed to the Associated Press that eight of their members, including local-level officials, were killed in Friday’s Israeli attacks on the eastern Baalbek region. The IDF says the strikes eliminated members planning operations against Israel.
Cinema
Women's rights documentary makes historic Berlinale premiere
For the first time in its history, a Kazakh documentary has premiered at the Berlinale’s Forum section — one of the world’s most influential film festivals. ‘River Dreams’, the debut feature by director Kristina Mikhailova, gives voice to women imagining life beyond male dominance.
Culture news
One goal, two approaches: Cultural connections in Central Asia
Central Asia is investing heavily in cultural infrastructure, from privately funded museums in Kazakhstan to state-led institutions in Uzbekistan. These contrasting approaches reveal how culture is being mobilised as strategy, legacy and soft power across the region.
Space
Uzbekistan preps first homegrown satellite and astronaut mission
Uzbekistan plans to launch a 6U CubeSat in 2028 while preparing the framework for a 10–14 day astronaut mission in cooperation with international partners. The focus is on Earth observation data, scientific research and technical capacity building.
South Korea
Former President Yoon handed life sentence for imposing martial law
A court in Seoul sentenced South Korea’s former President Yoon Suk-yeol to life in prison after finding him guilty of leading an insurrection. The court ruled his short imposition of martial law amounted to a “rebellion” and aimed to establish unchecked power for a “considerable time”.