October 29, 2025
US
•29.10.2025
•Wednesday
•Yesterday
•⌨
US media continued its extensive coverage of Hurricane Melissa, which began the day as a Category 4 storm battering Cuba after devastating Jamaica. By early afternoon, the storm made landfall in eastern Cuba as a Category 3 hurricane, maintaining its strong impact. Concurrently, President Trump's visit to South Korea for a summit with regional leaders, where he discussed trade and received a high honor, also garnered consistent attention. As the day progressed, reports highlighted the widespread destruction and fatalities caused by Melissa across the Caribbean, particularly in Jamaica and Haiti, as the storm headed toward the Bahamas.
Israel
•29.10.2025
•Wednesday
•Yesterday
•⌨
The day opened with the death of reservist Yona Ephraim Peldebaum in Rafah, killed by enemy fire, which prompted renewed Israeli strikes in Gaza. A ceasefire was subsequently reinstated, with US President Trump supporting Israel's right to respond. In parallel, the Supreme Court debated the conscription of yeshiva students, drawing significant media attention. By early afternoon, the Knesset preliminarily approved a bill to split the Attorney General's role. Attention then shifted to a criminal investigation into a leaked Shde Teiman video, leading to the Chief Military Prosecutor's leave of absence amid suspicions of her involvement. The day concluded with the controversial proposed appointment of Yair Netanyahu to a senior, ministerial-level role in the World Zionist Organization, which was ultimately delayed by two weeks due to political backlash.
Germany
•29.10.2025
•Wednesday
•Yesterday
•⌨
German media observed significant international developments throughout the day. The morning focused on Hurricane Melissa's devastation in Jamaica, impacting half a million people, and a violent drug raid in Rio de Janeiro. Domestically, discussions included the Union's push to abolish dual citizenship and criticism of train cancellations in NRW. By mid-morning, reports emerged of renewed drone attacks targeting Russian infrastructure and Zelenskyy's focus on crippling Russia's economy. The afternoon saw concerns over US troop withdrawals from Europe and potential Trump-Xi trade deals affecting Taiwan. The evening was dominated by the Dutch election results, with multiple sources reporting that liberal-left parties were ahead and right-wing populist Geert Wilders suffered significant losses.
France
•29.10.2025
•Wednesday
•Yesterday
•⌨
French media on October 29 extensively covered the Louvre burglary, with reports in the early afternoon confirming that suspects had partially confessed, though the stolen jewels remained unfound. By evening, both suspects were formally charged and placed in provisional detention. Concurrently, discussions around the 2026 budget continued in parliament, with slow progress on amendments.
Hurricane Melissa, which devastated Jamaica the previous day, made landfall in Cuba in the morning and caused significant damage, with at least 10 deaths reported in Haiti by the afternoon. In other news, Israel announced a return to a ceasefire in Gaza following bombardments that reportedly killed over 100 people. France also definitively integrated the notion of non-consent into the legal definition of rape and sexual assault.
Hurricane Melissa, which devastated Jamaica the previous day, made landfall in Cuba in the morning and caused significant damage, with at least 10 deaths reported in Haiti by the afternoon. In other news, Israel announced a return to a ceasefire in Gaza following bombardments that reportedly killed over 100 people. France also definitively integrated the notion of non-consent into the legal definition of rape and sexual assault.
Lebanon
•29.10.2025
•Wednesday
•Yesterday
•⌨
Lebanese media on October 29 primarily focused on international diplomatic efforts and domestic political developments. In the morning, positive meetings for Ortagus in Beirut were reported, with a proposal to politically expand the "Mechanism" framework to include all Lebanese borders (Lebanon24, Kataeb). This diplomatic activity occurred amidst concerns about potential Israeli escalation (Lebanon24) and an ongoing internal debate between military confrontation and electoral solutions (Lebanon24, Kataeb).
By midday, discussions continued on the election law within the Council of Ministers, with calls for expatriates to vote for all 128 MPs (Kataeb). Ortagus emphasized the Lebanese Armed Forces' responsibility to control weaponry (Naharnet, Janoubia). In the afternoon, the army announced the handover of individuals involved in recent killings (Al Joumhouria, LBC, LBCI), while the Council of Ministers continued to deliberate on the election law report (Kataeb).
In the evening, Lebanese stability was framed as impacting Syria (Al Joumhouria), and an Israeli report discussed the potential for war in Lebanon (Lebanon24). The Kataeb party warned that escalating Lebanon was Iran's last bet to avoid a potential Israeli-American strike (Kataeb).
Ukraine
•29.10.2025
•Wednesday
•Yesterday
•⌨
Ukrainian media on October 29 primarily focused on the escalating conflict in Pokrovsk, with initial reports in the morning detailing 45 enemy attacks repelled and almost 150 clashes on the front. By early afternoon, reports indicated Russian forces were consolidating in Pokrovsk, with concerns raised about a potential encirclement and the uncovering of vulnerabilities within Ukrainian defense lines. The situation intensified throughout the day, with confirmed reports of street battles and a "critical situation" in the battleground city, leading to discussions about the deployment of 11,000 Russian troops to surround the Pokrovsk agglomeration. The evening brought further confirmation from President Zelenskyy that the Pokrovsk direction remains the most challenging, though Ukrainian forces are defending positions in Kupiansk.
Palestine
•29.10.2025
•Wednesday
•Yesterday
•⌨
Palestinian media on October 29 prominently reported a renewed escalation of Israeli airstrikes on Gaza, resulting in dozens of casualties, including children, with sources highlighting a breach of the ceasefire. Early morning reports detailed dozens of casualties and an announcement by Al-Qassam Brigades of finding two captive bodies. In the late morning, Israeli announcements about resuming the ceasefire appeared, but reports continued regarding dozens killed and injured in Israeli overnight attacks. Throughout the afternoon, reports continued on Israeli violations of the Gaza ceasefire with renewed airstrikes and a rising death toll. By the evening, media continued to focus on Israeli violations of the ceasefire, with additional airstrikes and casualties in northern Gaza, along with ongoing discussions about settlement plans.
UK
•29.10.2025
•Wednesday
•Yesterday
•⌨
UK media began the day with extensive coverage of Hurricane Melissa, which had already devastated Jamaica with flooding and wind, and was intensifying as it moved towards Cuba. By mid-morning, Jamaica was declared a "disaster area," with reports of widespread destruction and thousands of tourists trapped. The focus shifted to Cuba as Melissa made landfall there with 120mph winds. By late afternoon and evening, the humanitarian impact in Jamaica and Haiti became prominent, with reports of widespread power outages in Jamaica and at least 20 deaths in Haiti, with four deaths later confirmed in Jamaica itself. The storm was nearing the Bahamas, leaving a trail of destruction across the Caribbean. Separately, the deportation of migrant sex offender Hadush Kebatu and discussions around potential income tax increases in the UK also featured.
Iran
•29.10.2025
•Wednesday
•Yesterday
•⌨
On October 29th, Iranian media significantly focused on the country's missile program and related diplomatic efforts. Morning reports highlighted the ongoing US President Trump's visit to South Korea amidst North Korean missile tests and renewed Israeli attacks in Gaza (BBC Persian, Iran International).
By early afternoon, attention shifted to Iran's defense capabilities, with reports of a massive import of sodium perchlorate from China, described as a key component for missile fuel (Radio Farda, Iran International, CNN via Kayhan London). This development was linked to a rapid rebuilding of Iran's missile program.
Simultaneously, regional diplomacy remained prominent, with discussions on efforts to restart negotiations between Iran and the US (Iran International, BBC Persian) and Iran's potential role as a 'realistic mediator' between Pakistan and Afghanistan (Shargh Daily). There were also reports of new movements detected at Iran's nuclear sites by Rafael Grossi (Iran International).
Russia
•29.10.2025
•Wednesday
•Yesterday
•⌨
Russian media began the day reporting continued Ukrainian drone attacks, including a claim of 100 drones shot down overnight. Early discussions also touched on a BRICS grain exchange and alleged terror plots. However, the day's dominant narrative shifted significantly around noon with President Putin's announcement of successful tests of the "Poseidon" underwater nuclear-powered drone, a story that built on previous days' reports of the "Burevestnik" missile test. This was widely covered across state media, with subsequent reports detailing the drone's nuclear capabilities and strategic importance for Russia's security. Putin also offered a temporary ceasefire to allow media into encircled Ukrainian areas.
Italy
•29.10.2025
•Wednesday
•Yesterday
•⌨
Italian media on October 29 initially focused on renewed Israeli raids in Gaza, reporting dozens of casualties after accusations of ceasefire violations. President Trump reiterated support for Israel's self-defense and stated the truce was not at risk. Concurrently, a fatal road accident in Treviso involving a SUV and a student bus, resulting in one death and multiple injuries, gained significant attention. By early afternoon, reports highlighted Russia's testing of the Poseidon submarine missile, described as unparalleled globally, and Putin's call for encircled Ukrainian soldiers to surrender. In the late afternoon and evening, the dominant narrative shifted to the Court of Accounts' rejection of the Strait of Messina Bridge project. This decision led to strong criticism from Prime Minister Meloni, who labeled it judicial overreach, with Deputy Prime Minister Salvini stating the government would proceed regardless.
Japan
•29.10.2025
•Wednesday
•Yesterday
•⌨
Japanese media outlets prominently featured the Nikkei Stock Average surging past 51,000 yen in the morning, hitting a new record high of 51,307 yen by the afternoon. This continued the upward trend observed in previous days. Concurrently, US-Japan alliance cooperation remained a focus, though some outlets noted a lack of clear strategy. Prime Minister Takaichi's upcoming meeting with President Xi Jinping on the 31st was also being arranged. Additionally, the estimated cost for the Chuo Shinkansen line between Tokyo and Nagoya saw a significant increase of 4 trillion yen, reaching 11 trillion yen, with no clear opening date. Later in the day, an agreement between the US and South Korea on a trade deal at the APEC summit was reported, alongside an agreement by political parties to make high school education free from 2026.
Netherlands
•29.10.2025
•Wednesday
•Yesterday
•⌨
Dutch media heavily focused on the national elections throughout the day. Morning reports highlighted the start of voting, final debates, and candidates' efforts to appear prime minister-worthy. Discussions also touched upon voter sentiment and the ongoing influence of Geert Wilders.
By early afternoon, attention shifted to turnout figures, which were initially slightly lower nationally than in previous elections, though higher in Amsterdam. Concerns about the state of democracy were also raised.
In the evening, initial exit polls indicated D66 as the largest party with 27 seats, closely followed by PVV and VVD. This led to Frans Timmermans' resignation as leader of GroenLinks-PvdA due to a significant setback for his party. D66's lead was seen as an unprecedented gain, with party leaders expressing optimism for a potential centrist cabinet.
By early afternoon, attention shifted to turnout figures, which were initially slightly lower nationally than in previous elections, though higher in Amsterdam. Concerns about the state of democracy were also raised.
In the evening, initial exit polls indicated D66 as the largest party with 27 seats, closely followed by PVV and VVD. This led to Frans Timmermans' resignation as leader of GroenLinks-PvdA due to a significant setback for his party. D66's lead was seen as an unprecedented gain, with party leaders expressing optimism for a potential centrist cabinet.
India
•29.10.2025
•Wednesday
•Yesterday
•⌨
Indian media on October 29 extensively covered Cyclone Montha, which weakened into a cyclonic storm after making landfall on the Andhra Pradesh coast. Early reports detailed damage and casualties, with ongoing coverage throughout the morning on its impact and severe weather. Concurrently, the Bihar election campaign remained a significant focus, with Rahul Gandhi criticizing the state government and Amit Shah targeting the RJD-Congress alliance. By midday, PM Modi highlighted the rapid progress of India's maritime sector. In the afternoon, farmers protested in Nagpur, defying a court order, with leader Bachchu Kadu threatening arrest. Separately, India coordinated with Thailand for the repatriation of 500 citizens stranded after fleeing a Myanmar scam hub.
Poland
•29.10.2025
•Wednesday
•Yesterday
•⌨
On October 29, Polish media extensively covered the ongoing CPK land deal scandal, focusing on developments related to the potential repurchase of land from Dawtona. Morning reports continued to highlight accusations against the government for misleading the public regarding the CPK affair. By early afternoon, wPolityce reported that KOWR could repurchase the land at the 2023 price, citing key agreement provisions. In the late afternoon, KOWR formally requested to repurchase the land under CPK, which became a central point of discussion. This action was scrutinized by OKO.press, which questioned KOWR's right to demand the sale, while PiS acknowledged the complexities of the situation. Simultaneously, the media continued to discuss Zbigniew Ziobro's assertions against the current government and a new trade agreement with Ukraine, which maintained Poland's embargo.
Spain
•29.10.2025
•Wednesday
•Yesterday
•⌨
Spanish media on October 29th continued its extensive coverage of the one-year anniversary of the DANA floods, with renewed focus on Israeli airstrikes in Gaza during the early morning hours. By late morning, Mazón acknowledged shortcomings in the DANA response and declared October 29th an official day of remembrance, amidst ongoing victim indignation and political scrutiny.
In the afternoon, public outcry intensified, with reports detailing protests against Mazón in Valencia. The State funeral for DANA victims in the late afternoon and evening became a focal point, as families vehemently expressed anger at Mazón, shouting "murderer" and "coward." King Felipe VI's call for analysis into the tragedy's causes also received attention, while King Juan Carlos I's return to Spain was noted by one outlet.
In the afternoon, public outcry intensified, with reports detailing protests against Mazón in Valencia. The State funeral for DANA victims in the late afternoon and evening became a focal point, as families vehemently expressed anger at Mazón, shouting "murderer" and "coward." King Felipe VI's call for analysis into the tragedy's causes also received attention, while King Juan Carlos I's return to Spain was noted by one outlet.
Turkey
•29.10.2025
•Wednesday
•Yesterday
•⌨
Turkish media on October 29 was largely dominated by Republic Day celebrations. The morning saw President Erdoğan and state officials visiting Anıtkabir, with messages from Emine Erdoğan widely featured. These celebrations continued into the late morning and early afternoon, with reports of nationwide festivities and special campaigns. Concurrently, the "spy case" continued to be a notable story, with questions raised about Ekrem İmamoğlu's whereabouts during the coup attempt and Ruşen Çakır's analysis. Separately, a building collapse in Gebze emerged as a significant incident, with rescue efforts underway and later reports of fatalities. Throughout the day, President Erdoğan's Republic Day messages, emphasizing a "Türkiye free of terrorism," were a central focus, alongside discussions of the "process" agenda, including an İmralı committee meeting with Erdoğan. The President's awards and party leaders not attending a reception also received coverage.
China
•29.10.2025
•Wednesday
•Yesterday
•⌨
Chinese state media opened the day continuing its extensive coverage of the 15th Five-Year Plan, emphasizing its significance for development and modernization, and the importance of technological self-reliance. This built on several days of focus on the plan and the Fourth Plenary Session. Early morning reports also referenced an upcoming meeting between US President Donald Trump and President Xi Jinping. By mid-morning, numerous state media outlets prominently reported that Xi and Trump would meet on October 30 in Busan, South Korea, to discuss bilateral relations and issues of mutual concern. This news dominated the editorial landscape throughout the day, overshadowing other developments, including details about the 15th Five-Year Plan's goals for immigration and global sea power.