Amid rising tensions, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has threatened a swift nuclear response to any attack by South Korea or the United States, criticizing their recent military maneuvers.

Meanwhile, in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, the deadliest to strike the US mainland since Katrina, rescue teams are diligently working in harsh conditions to search for victims, with North Carolina particularly affected and President Joe Biden promising federal support.

In Guanajuato, Mexico, cartel violence continues to spiral, as 12 bodies were discovered following ruthless attacks amidst ongoing turf wars, prompting newly elected President Claudia Sheinbaum to announce her national security strategy next week.

Over in Pakistan, Islamabad has been sealed off and communications cut amid large-scale protests by supporters of former Prime Minister Imran Khan, with authorities trying to stave off unrest while Khan urges peaceful assembly.

On a more positive note, the World Health Organization has approved the first diagnostic test for mpox, aiming to bolster outbreak responses in affected countries, particularly in regions grappling with significant cases and fatalities.

Lastly, the Philippines has intensified its crackdown on love scams with a major raid in Manila, detaining over 250 individuals involved in online fraud schemes, underscoring President Ferdinand Marcos' commitment to fighting financial crimes.