EZ News

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened 71-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 24,033 on turnover of $7.2-billion N-T. Taiwan and US sign MOU on combating cross-border drug trafficking Taiwan and the United States have signed a memorandum of understanding to jointly combat transnational drug trafficking. According to the American Institute in Taiwan, the agreement will enhance intelligence sharing between the U-S Drug Enforcement Administration and the Taiwan High Prosecutors Office .. ….. by "enabling more efficient investigations and prosecutions of transnational drug trafficking organizations." A-I-T has issues a press release quoting D-E-A Asia Pacific Division Special Agent in charge John Scott as saying that the annual forum represents the "shared commitment of Taiwan and the United States to combat the scourge (禍害) of drug trafficking." NPM to show 'meat-shaped stone' in first exhibition in Yilan The National Palace Museum has announced that its iconic "meat-shaped stone" and 14 other artifacts will be going on disply in Yilan for the first time. The artifacts will be part of a special exhibition co-organized with the Lanyang Museum in December. Along with its famed "meat-shaped stone," the National Palace Museum also selected a jade duck piece dating back to the Song and Yuan dynasties, a porcelain chicken cup in doucai painted enamels from the Ming dynasty … … and a revolving vase with swimming fish in cobalt blue glaze (釉) from the Qing dynasty as some of the artifacts that will be featured in the Yilan exhibition. Moscow says foreign troops in Ukraine would be ‘unacceptable’ Russia called "absolutely unacceptable" the idea of deploying foreign forces in Ukraine discussed by Europe and Kiev as part of security guarantees for Ukraine. Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov accused the so-called "coalition of the willing" countries of attempts to undermine US President Donald Trump's peacemaking efforts. And reiterated (重申) any discussions of European security, Ukraine included, must involve Russia. Daria Bondarchuk reports from Moscow. Uganda Announces US Deal to Take Deported Migrants Uganda's foreign ministry says the African country has agreed to a deal with the United States to take deported migrants as long as they don’t have criminal records and are not unaccompanied minors. The ministry said in a statement Thursday that the agreement had been concluded but that terms were still being worked out. It added that Uganda prefers that the migrants sent there be of African nationalities (國籍), but did not elaborate on what Uganda might get in return for accepting deportees. The U.S. embassy in Uganda declined to comment on what it called “diplomatic negotiations." Human rights activists criticized the deal as possibly going against international law. New Evidence of Earlier Modern Humans and Neanderthals Interaction And new findings suggest that modern humans and Neanderthals may have interacted 100-thousand years earlier than previously thought. That's according to researchers who used CT scans and 3D mapping to study the bones of a child they believe was the result of interbreeding between the two distinct groups. The child was buried in a cave in Israel some 140-thousand years ago. Because no ancient DNA was extracted from the fossilized (變成化石的) remains, it’s impossible to confirm the child’s origins, but scientists say microscopic details in the bones indicate the child had traits of both groups. The findings, recently published in a peer-reviewed journal, help shed light on when the two groups began interacting and offers clues about their relationships. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up114-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 23,740 on turnover of $6.9-billion N-T. The market tumbled on Wednesday - losing more than 700 points as Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing came under heavy pressure, which pushed the electronics sector lower following a decline by tech stocks on Wall Street overnight. It was the first time the Tai-Ex had closed below the 24,000 point mark since August 6 and analysts says the steep declines among U-S tech stocks overnight prompted local investors to pocket gains from previous sessions. AI system predicting rogue waves to be deployed in 16 coastal regions The Central Weather Administration say it's developed an artificial intelligence-powered system that predicts the occurrence (發生) of rogue waves. It's been developed in conjunction with the National Cheng Kung University and can predicts rogue waves over the next 24 hours. According to the weather administration, the system will now be implemented (實施) in 16 of Taiwan's coastal municipalities by the end of this year. Administration deputy head Fong Qin-zi says rogue waves are not traceable like the weather but occur as a result of specific environmental conditions, which requires more precise predictions than simply issuing warnings of long waves. The Coastal Ocean Monitoring Center says a total of 430 rogue wave incidents have been recorded over the past 25 years, causing 750 casualties, one-third of which were fatalities. UN Warns IS Exploiting Instability and Remains a Threat U.N. counterterrorism experts warn that Islamic State extremists are exploiting instability in Africa and Syria and remain a significant threat in Afghanistan, Central Asia and Europe. They told a U.N. Security Council meeting on Wednesday that the militant group is now using advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence, and social media, which poses a new challenge. The Islamic State group declared a self-styled caliphate in a large swath of Syria and Iraq that it seized in 2014. It was declared defeated in Iraq in 2017 following a three-year battle that left tens of thousands of people dead and cities in ruins. But its sleeper cells remain in both countries and it has affiliates (附屬機構) and supporters in many other countries. Trump Administration slaps sanctions on more ICC judges The Trump administration has imposed fresh sanctions on four ICC judges and prosecutors, including individuals associated with cases involving alleged war crimes linked to Israel and the US. Critics say the sanctions threaten to impede the Court's ability to investigate other cases, including alleged (被指控的) war crimes carried out by Russia in Ukraine. Toni Waterman has more. NZ Announces Military Spending for Planes and Helicopters New Zealand's government has announced new military spending of $1.6 billion to replace aging planes and helicopters. Officials unveiled the package today, citing growing global tensions and a deteriorating security environment. The purchase of military planes and helicopters is the first procurement in a plan to double defense spending from 1% to 2% of GDP in the next decade. The procurement includes five Seahawk helicopters and two Airbus aircraft. New Zealand's defense minister says the government would move quickly to procure (採購) the helicopters through the United States' foreign military sales program. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 44-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 24,309 on turnover of 4.6-billion N-T. The market lost ground on Tuesday due to investor concerns over the impact of U-S tariffs on the local job market after machine tool maker Taiwan Takisawa Technology urged its employees to take three days off a week due to a decline in orders. Analysts say the Takisawa report delivered a shock to investors as it is a listed old economy company and there's now fear the impact will affect more Taiwanese machinery makers given the higher tariff burden plus a stronger New Taiwan dollar. Lai calls on defense medical university to strengthen battlefield medicine President Lai Ching-te says the newly upgraded National Defense Medical University needs to further enhance its training in battlefield trauma care. Speaking at a ceremony marking the school's elevation from the National Defense Medical Center, Lai said greater global exchanges will help it specialize ( 專精) in battlefield medicine and trauma care. According to Lai, international cooperation will allow the university to learn from other countries' military and medical education systems and apply those lessons to not only support the armed forces but also strengthen (加強) society's broader capacity to respond to crises. Lai described the university as a crucial asset for infectious disease research and prevention during his speech … The university was officially upgraded on August 1. Over 5 million votes required to pass nuclear power plant referendum The Central Election Commission says at least 5 million votes will be needed to pass Saturday's referendum on whether to extend the service of the Maanshan Nuclear Power Plant in Pingtung. Under the Referendum Act, the vote will pass only if votes in favor account for more than one-fourth of the total eligible voters and outnumber the votes against. According to the election commission, number of eligible (有資格的) voters is 20,002,091 - translating to a minimum threshold of 5,000,523 votes for passage of the referendum. The referendum question reads: "Do you agree that the Maanshan Nuclear Power Plant should continue operation upon approval by the competent authority and confirmation that there are no safety concerns?" US favors Budapest for Russia-Ukraine meeting The Trump administration is considering the Hungarian capital Budapest as the location for a summit (高峰會) between Donald Trump, Vladimir Putin and Volodymyr Zelenskyy. It comes as the White House weighs offering US air support as part of security guarantees for Ukraine to help end the conflict. Nick Harper reports from Washington. Mexico Maya Train Derailment A tourist-focused Maya Train running along Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula has derailed while moving slowly toward a station platform. The train was traveling Tuesday from Cancun to Merida when it left the tracks at a station in Izamal. Passengers were uninjured and transported by bus. The accident is under investigation, but the train is operating normally between other stations. The Maya Train began running in late 2023, but has had low ridership (客流量). Environmentalists have documented severe impacts on the delicate (脆弱的) cave systems under the train line. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 11-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 24,494 on turnover of $4.9-billion N-T. Shares in Taiwan closed at a new high Monday as buying in the bellwether electronics sector accelerated in the wake of gains posted by markets in the United States pointing to a possible higher opening later in the day. Amid optimism toward artificial intelligence development, iPhone assembler and AI server maker Hon Hai Precision Industry rose 1.45 percent. In the old economy sector, petrochemical stocks continued an uptrend led by Nan Ya Plastics Corp., on optimism over its supply of materials to PCB makers. 4.9 earthquake strikes Hualien No injuries or damage are being reported after a magnitude 4.9 earthquake struck Hualien at 9:26. The Central Weather Administration says, the depth of the quake was measured at 17.1 kilometers, and the epicenter was located 11.7 kilometers east of Hualien County Hall, in the ocean. The quake was felt at a maximum intensity of 4 in Hualien and a 3 in Yilan. (AH) UN: IS Backed Congo Rebels Kill Dozens The United Nations peacekeeping mission in Congo says that Islamic State-backed rebels in the eastern part of the country have killed at least 52 people. The mission says the attacks blamed on the Allied Democratic Forces took place from Aug. 9 to Aug. 16 in North Kivu province. The violence included abductions, looting (搶劫), and the burning of homes and vehicles. The death toll is expected to rise. Eastern Congo has faced deadly attacks from armed groups like the ADF, which has ties to the Islamic State. US Democrats End Walkout Over Redistricting From the US…. Texas Democrats are ending their walkout over redistricting (重新劃分選區), as California prepares to retaliate. AP correspondent Ed Donahue reports Air Canda Flight Attendant Strike Air Canada and the union representing 10,000 flight attendants have resumed talks for the first time since their strike began three days ago. That's according to a person familiar with the negotiations. The renewed talks on Monday come after the union for the Air Canada flight attendants said they won’t return to work even though the strike has been declared illegal. It has affected about 130-thousand travelers per day during the peak (高峰) summer travel season. Labor leaders are objecting to the Canadian government’s repeated use of a law that cuts off workers’ right to strike and forces them into binding arbitration. Cambridge Dictionary Adds 6000 New Words The Cambridge Dictionary has added over 6,000 new words including slang terms like “skibidi,” pronounced SKIH-bih-dee, "tradwife" and "delulu." Cambridge Dictionary says it uses the Cambridge English Corpus database of more than 2 billion words to monitor (監測) how new words are used, how often and in what contexts. Other additions this year include "mouse jiggler" for a tool to simulate (模擬) activity during remote work and “forever chemical” for persistent environmental pollutants. Representatives at the world's largest online dictionary say it has only added words it thinks have “staying power.” That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

ITRI raises output growth forecast for Taiwan semiconductors CWA heat warning for 6 locations Zelenskyy and EU to discuss "security guarentees" Europe Wild Fires Air Canada Flight Attendants Strike -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Two Taiwanese receive suspended sentences for filming US warplanes in South Korea A-Mei to perform at CPBL home run leader's retirement game Latest about Plastic Pollution Treaty Wallet found 240,000 km away and years later -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Highway Bureau says 5 provincial roads still blocked MOL expands subsidy program for furloughed workers amid tariff shock Taiwan-funded mobile clinics help 7,000 underprivileged in Guatemala Torrential rain battered South Korea capital National Guard arriving in Washington DC -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Tai-Ex opening up Typhoon Podul latest 10AM news Taiwan faces Mexico in Little League World Series opener Trump Zelensky to talk before US-Russia summit Russia Ukraine ceasefire deal -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Sea warning issued for Typhoon Podul Real wages and total earnings up in H1 2025 Two dead and 10 injured in steel plant in Pennsylvania AOL is finally shutting down its dial-up internet service US Antarctica Pilot stuck in Antarctica -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

CWA expected to issue sea and land warnings for Tropical Storm Podul Women's tug-of-war team wins 6th straight World Games title European leaders support Ukraine ahead of Trump-Putin meeting Many Countries Criticized Israel Armenia-Azerbaijan react to "peace deal" -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Tropical Storm Podul formed Control Yuan censures Fisheries Agency over typhoon crew evacuations failures Trump wants Intel's CEO to quit immediately United-Nations-Africa-Terrorism Judge halts construction of "Alligator Alcatraz" -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 270-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 23,717 on turnover of $12.2-billion N-T. The market fell sharply on Wednesday - as semiconductor stocks tumbled after U-S President Donald Trump announced that he will announce new tariffs on chips within the next week or so. NGO says migrant workers facing fraud but reluctant to report it The TransAsia Sisters Association says migrant workers in Taiwan are facing many types of fraud - but the cases are going underreported because of language barriers and other factors. According to the association, it has identified several potential problems in the effort to fight scams against migrants through interviews over the past year with mainly migrant workers and a small proportion (部分) of foreign spouses. The association says around 30-per cent of interviewees had experienced financial fraud, but that only a third of them reported their cases to authorities. The group is attributing the reluctance to report fraud cases to police to a lack of readily available multilingual services at police stations. The Workforce Development Agency says migrant workers can use the 1955 hotline, which provides multilingual services, to help them identify potential fraud schemes .. .. and the hotline can contact third parties on behalf of workers to verify suspicious situations and report cases to local labor authorities. Trump says 100% tariff coming on some imported semiconductors US President Donald Trump says he will impose a 100% tariff on imports of semiconductors. But he said he would exempt companies making their chips in the US… or are in the process of (的過程中) building chip fabrication facilities in the country. Toni Waterman has more. UN Report on Taliban Weaponizing Law Against Women and Girls The independent U.N. investigator on human rights in Afghanistan says its Taliban rulers have “weaponized” the legal and judicial system to oppress women and girls in what amounts to “crimes against humanity." Richard Bennett said in a report to the U.N. General Assembly circulated Wednesday that after seizing power in 2021 the Taliban suspended the 2004 constitution and specific laws protecting the rights of women and girls. These include a landmark law that criminalized 22 forms of violence against women, including rape and child and forced marriage. The Taliban defend their approach to justice by claiming they are implementing Islamic sharia law, but Islamic scholars and others have said their interpretation is unparalleled (無與倫比的) in other Muslim-majority countries and does not adhere to Islamic teachings. Bennett urged all countries to support efforts to bring Afghanistan before the International Court of Justice, the U.N.’s highest tribunal. Barbary Lion Cubs Born at Czech Zoo Four Barbary lion cubs have been born in a Czech zoo. The birth marks a significant boost for the rare species, which is extinct (滅絕的) in the wild. The three females and one male were seen playing at Dvur Kralove Safari Park on Wednesday. Soon, the cubs will be sent to other zoos as part of an international program to ensure (確保) their survival. Zoo officials say that while reintroducing the Barbary lion into its natural habitat is considered, it remains a distant goal. The Barbary lion once roamed northern Africa but was wiped out due to human activities. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 217-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 23,443 on turnover of 7.2-billion N-T. The market rebounded from slumps seen during the the previous two sessions on Tuesday following a strong showing on Wall Street overnight. **President Lai Ching-te vows to increase defense budget to more than 3% of **GDP President Lai Ching-te says he plans to increase next year's defense budget to more than 3-per cent of G-D-P. Speaking at the opening of the Ketagalan Forum-Indo-Pacific Security Dialogue in Taipei, Lai said the budget will be increased based on continuing reforms within the island's armed forces and more investment (投資) in national defense. According to Lai, his administration will also continue to boost Taiwan's economic resilience and advance economic security by stepping up trade cooperation with other countries, And Lai also used his opening address to say his government remains committed to maintaining cross-strait "status quo”and ensuring peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. 10 KMT affiliates indicted in Chiayi for recall petition forgery The Chiayi District Prosecutors' Office has indicted 10 people affiliated with K-M-T for forging 2,067 signatures on a petition to recall D-P-P lawmaker Chen Guan-ting. Those indicted include Yang Fu-cheng, the secretary-general of the K-M-T's Chiayi County branch; Ho Bo-lun, the director of -K-M-T lawmaker Wang Yu-min's local office. The eight other people indicted all worked for the K-M-T' Chiayi County branch. According to the Prosecutors' Office, all 10 suspects have charged with forgery (偽造) and violations of the Personal Data Protection Act. Another eight people have been granted deferred prosecution for one year. NATO to coordinate regular and large-scale arm deliveries to Ukraine NATO is set to coordinate (協調) regular and large-scale arm deliveries to Ukraine The AP's Jennifer King reports. Nigeria Trafficked Birds Seized Nigerian customs have seized over 1,600 parrots and canaries being transported from Lagos to Kuwait without a permit. This is one of the biggest wildlife trafficking seizures in years. On July 31, customs agents seized ring-necked parakeets and green and yellow fronted canaries at Lagos airport. These are protected species. The birds were not accompanied by the required permits. An investigation is ongoing (正在進行的) to find those responsible. The birds will be handed to the National Parks Service for rehabilitation and release. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 119-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 23,498 on turnover of 5.7-billion N-T. The market lost ground on Monday as selling was triggered by a decline on Wall Street at the end of last week. And analysts say U-S indexes dictated the local main board yesterday as it came under heavy pressure in a knee-jerk reaction to Friday's losses and U-S tariff announcements. Alaska's governor says Taiwan is close to record deal for 6 million tons of LNG The governor of Alaska says Taiwan is close to finalizing a deal to purchase 6-million tons of liquefied natural gas from the U-S state. According to Mike Dunleavy, when completed, it will mark the largest such sale in Alaska's history. The purchase will reportedly account for about 30-per cent of the Alaska L-N-G Project's planned annual output of 20-million tons. The government has not commented on Dunleavy's remarks. However, C-P-C says no information is available on the purchase volume or total cost of the deal as it's still waiting for the finalized (敲定) details from the seller. According to the Energy Administration, the U-S currently supplies 10-per cent of Taiwan's L-N-G, making it the country's third-largest source after Australia and Qatar. Torrential rain in Taiwan causes 5 deaths, 3 missing, 78 injuries The Central Emergency Operation Center has increased the death toll due to the torrential rains that have battered much of the south since July 28 to five. The center says a total of 78 rain related injuries have been reported and three people remain missing. According to the Central Weather Administration, it recorded accumulated rainfall of 292-centimeters in Kaohsiung's Maolin District and 236-centimeters in Pingtung's Wutai Township between 12AM on July 28 and 4PM yesterday. The Ministry of Agriculture is reporting estimated agricultural losses of 260-million N-T. Premier Cho Jung-tai says the Cabinet is set to pass a special bill with more than 30-billion N-T earmarked for rebuilding in the aftermath of Typhoon Danas. India says Trump plans to raise tariffs "unjustified" India's foreign ministry has described US President Trump's declaration that he would "substantially" raise tariffs on imports from India, as "unjustified and unreasonable." President Trump claimed that India is profiting (獲利) by reselling cheap Russian oil on the open market. Kate Fisher reports from Washington Denmark Zoo Asks for Donated Pets as Food for Predators A zoo in Denmark is asking for people to donate small pets as food for its predators. The Aalborg Zoo says it is trying to mimic the natural food chain of the animals housed there and offers assurances the pets will be “gently euthanized” by trained staff. The zoo in northern Denmark explained in a Facebook post that “if you have a healthy animal that needs to be given away for various (各種各樣的) reasons, feel free to donate it to us.” The zoo points to guinea pigs, rabbits and chickens as possible donations. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 174-points this morning from Friday's close, at 23,260 on turnover of 5.8-billion N-T. The market fell into negative territory in Friday after the U-S imposed a 20-per cent tariff on Taiwan's imports. Analysts say investors were caught off guard, as many had been anticipating Taiwan would get a 15-per cent tariff like Japan and South Korea and investors are concerned the higher levy (稅款) will make Taiwan exporters less competitive. Southern Taiwan sees over 2 meters of rain in 7 days The Central Weather Administration says over 2-meters of rainfall fell in parts the south from between July 28 to 9AM on Sunday. According to the administration, Kaohsiung's Taoyuan District saw total rainfall of 220-centimeters, while some 206-centimeters was recorded in Sandimen Township in Pingtung. The weather administration's forecast center says three factors have been contributing to the continuous intensive rainfall in the south. Those being successive southwestern air currents that moved landward, southwesterly winds brought in unstable air that developed into convection currents (對流…) .. .. and the southwesterly winds sweeping into southern Taiwan's mountainous areas causing intense rain in those areas. Village chief in Hualien dismissed over Chinese nationality A village chief in Hualien has dismissed from office over her China nationality status. The move means Teng Wan-hua has becoming the first local official to have been removed from office (撤職) for that reason. Teng served as chief of Xuetian Village in Hualien Fuli Township. According to the Ministry of the Interior, she is one of five village or borough chiefs who were found in January to hold China nationality in violation of the Nationality Act. Teng is denying any wrongdoing - saying she holds an R-O-C Taiwan passport, and not a Chinese one and also doesn't have P-R-C nationality. Israeli Minister Prays at Jerusalem Holy Site A far-right Israeli minister has visited and prayed at Jerusalem’s most sensitive holy site, sparking regional condemnation. The visit by Itamar Ben-Gvir threatens to escalate tensions and complicate international efforts to halt Israel’s nearly two-year military offensive in Gaza. Palestinian leaders, along with Jordan and Saudi Arabia, have condemned the visit as incitement. The visit followed Hamas' release of videos showing emaciated Israeli hostages that have caused an uproar (騷亂；騷動) in Israel. Meanwhile, hospitals in Gaza say 33 more Palestinians have been killed by Israeli fire while seeking food aid. Israel faces global criticism over famine-like conditions in the besieged strip. UK Oasis Fan Falls to Death During Concert Oasis has expressed shock and sadness after a man fell to his death during their concert at Wembley Stadium in London. The Metropolitan Police said officers and paramedics responded to reports of an injured person just before 10:30 Saturday night. A man in his 40s was found with injuries consistent with (符合) a fall and was pronounced dead at the scene. The police have urged anyone who witnessed the incident or captured it on video to contact them. Oasis offered condolences to the victim's family and friends. Their first tour in 16 years began July 4 in Cardiff, Wales. NZ Woman Faces Charges After Girl Found in Suitcase A New Zealand woman faces a child neglect charge after a bus driver found a 2-year-old girl in a suitcase. Authorities say the incident happened Sunday when the driver noticed movement in the luggage compartment (車廂) during a stop in Kaiwaka, north of Auckland. A detective reports the child was very hot but otherwise unharmed. The girl was taken to a hospital and remained there Sunday night. The woman, whose name has not been released, was charged with ill-treatment or neglect of a child and was due in court Monday. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 224-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 23,318 on turnover of $6.3-billion N-T. The market bucked a regional downward trend on Thursday and moved higher, as investors shrugged off a decline on Wall Street overnight caused by concerns that U-S Federal Reserve may not deliver interest rates cuts by September. Turnover also bounced back (恢復) from the decline seen during the previous session - as investor concerns over U-S tariff polices on Taiwan appeared to weaken. MOC launches new cultural program in tandem with Expo 2025 Osaka The Ministry of Culture says cultural program organized for Expo 2025 Osaka will premiere this weekend with a special exhibition featuring 50 selected picture books about various aspects of life in Taiwan. According to the ministry, the "We TAIWAN" cultural program is designed to partner with and make the most of the 2025 World Expo. The ministry says teams that left for Osaka last week have been setting up exhibitions (展覽) and rehearsing for the program - and the main "We TAIWAN" visual display has been set-up at the Grand Green Osaka venue. The first event of the program will be an exhibition of 50 picture books by Taiwanese writers and illustrators. The show will also feature elements from Taiwan's Indigenous Peoples, local folklore, daily life, as well as Taiwan's food culture, religions, arts and natural scenery (自然風光). The "We TAIWAN" program features 38 groups of artists from Taiwan and Japan who will put on a total of 129 performances from August 2 through 20. US special envoy meets Netanyahu as Gaza "famine" unfolds US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff has met Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem as global outrage intensifies over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Canada is the latest Western power to say it will recognise (正式認定) a Palestinian state. Kate fisher reports from Washington Macao ExDemocracy Lawmaker Arrested Under Security Law Macao police say they have arrested a man on suspicion of colluding with forces outside the Chinese casino hub to endanger national security. It was the first publicly known arrest under the city’s national security law. Local media outlets report former pro-democracy lawmaker Au Kam San is the suspect. Police said Thursday the 68-year-old Macao resident with the surname Au allegedly colluded (串通;勾結;) with an anti-China group outside of the city and provided false and seditious materials for public display online or abroad. He also is accused of maintaining long-term contact with multiple anti-China entities outside of Macao and repeatedly providing unfounded information to them or their media outlets for dissemination. Peru PreIncan Tombs Discovered Utility workers in Peru's capital have discovered two pre-Incan tombs while expanding underground gas networks. One tomb was empty, but the other contained remains about 1,000 years old, along with clay and pumpkin shell vessels (容器, 器皿). Archaeologists say the vessels' (容器, 器皿) design links them to the pre-Incan Chancay culture. Lima, a city with over 400 archaeological sites, often reveals such finds during construction projects. The company responsible for the gas network has made over 2,200 discoveries in two decades. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Rain Storms and Purple Rain Warning Lai apologizes for recall defeat and vows support for August 23 votes Government to spend NT$100bn on flood control US Fed keeps interest rates steady More killings in Gaza as people seek food -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Tai-Ex opening up CWA's rain advisories for central and southern Taiwan Premier visits flood-hit Tainan Tsunami warnings for Japan, Alaska, Hawaii IMF raises global growth forecast -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened marginally higher this morning from yesterday's close, at 23,414 on turnover of 4.7-billion N-T. The market ended the day in positive territory on Monday, as investors reacted to the U-S' trade deal with the European Union and await the outcome of two-days of tariff talks between Washington and Beijing - which are taking place in Stockholm. Taipei MRT Wenhu Line Resumes After Morning Disruptions Taipei's Wen-hu MRT line has mostly resumed (恢復) normal operations after a system alert and disruptions earlier this morning. Around 8am today, the Taipei Rapid Transit Corporation reported a train alert message on the Wenhu Line, between Dazhi Station and Taipei Zoo Station in the direction of Taipei Zoo, was impacting train operations. This alert led to longer train stops and increased waiting times on platforms. Taipei Metro says the line has resumed operations, after advising passengers to allow an extra 15 minutes for their commute (通勤). The corporation says passengers who have questions regarding tickets or refunds can check at information counters or on the MRT's official website or the Taipei Metro GO app. (NS) CWB issues rain alerts And, The Central Weather Administration has issued rain advisories (公告，警告) for part of the island. Torrential rain alerts are in effect for Tainan, Kaohsiung and Pingtung. Extremely heavy rain warnings have been issued for Chiayi, Punghu and mountainous area of Taitung. While heavy rain advisories are in effect for Keelung and the North Coast area, New Taipei, Taipei, Taoyuan, Hsinchu, Chungua, Nantou, Yunlin and low lying areas of Taitung. All of the advisories will remain in effect through tonight. Trump cuts 50-day deadline for Russia to make a peace deal with Ukraine US President Donald Trump has reduced his 50-day deadline for Russia to make a peace deal with Ukraine, giving the Kremlin less than two-weeks to end the war or face massive (大量的，巨大的) secondary tariffs. The President set the new deadline ahead of a meeting with the UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer in Scotland. Toni Waterman has more from Washington Colombia President Found Guilty of Witness Tampering and Bribery Former Colombian President Alvaro Uribe has been found guilty of witness tampering and bribery charges. The ruling was announced on Monday by a judge in the country’s capital, following a nearly six-month trial in which prosecutors presented evidence that Uribe attempted to influence witnesses who accused the leader of having links to a paramilitary group founded in the 1990s. Uribe faces up to 12 years in prison and the sentencing will be delivered in a separate (不同的) hearing. He is expected to appeal the ruling in a high court. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 112-points this morning from Friday's close, at 23,477 on turnover of 7.3-billion N-T. The market closed marginally lower on Friday ahead of strong technical resistance near the 23,500-point intraday-high mark and renewed concerns over U-S tariff policies. Work and School Cancellations Due to Rain School and work have been cancelled in parts of central Taiwan due to heavy rain and flooding. The Directorate-General of Personnel Administration says all of Chiayi County, as well as Shui-lin Township in Yunlin County will suspend work and classes, as both areas see precipitation through last night. Local officials are reporting flooding along several roadways and homes, up to 30 centimeters high, and hundreds of water pumps (抽水機) have been deployed. Forecasters say more thunderstorms are expected this afternoon, and they are advising the public to be on the lookout for more flooding as well as landslides. (NS) MAC bemoans China's recall comments The Mainland Affairs Council is slamming China's Taiwan Affairs Office for accusing the D-P-P of "political manipulation" and of saying it has lost public support following this past weekend's failed recall votes targeting 24 K-M-T lawmakers. According to the council, Beijing's "lack of democratic experience" means it has no right to comment on, or misinterpret (曲解), Taiwan's democratic system. The council is describing the recall vote as an example of Taiwan's democratic constitutional system and a major democratic achievement by civil society groups. The comments come after China's Taiwan Affairs Office issued a statement saying the D-P-P "has lost popular support and its policies run counter to the true mainstream public opinion in Taiwan." NKorea Rebuffs SKorea Efforts at Ties The influential sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has rebuffed (回絕) outreach by South Korea’s new liberal government, saying that North Korea has no interests in talks with South Korea for whatever proposal its rival offers. It’s North Korea’s first official statement on the government of South Korean President Lee Jae Myung, which took office in early June. In an effort to improve badly frayed ties with North Korea, Lee's government has halted anti-Pyongyang frontline loudspeaker broadcasts, taken steps to ban activists from flying balloons with propaganda leaflets across the border and repatriated North Koreans who were drifted (漂流) south in wooden boats months earlier. Kim Yo Jong called such steps “sincere efforts” but she said the Lee government won't be much different from its predecessors, citing what it calls “their blind trust” to the military alliance with the U.S. and attempt to “stand in confrontation” with North Korea. US Terrorism Assault Charges for Walmart Attacker Authorities seek to file terrorism and assault (攻擊) charges against suspect in Walmart knife attack AP correspondent Julie Walker reports That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 81-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 23,455 on turnover of $5.2-billion N-T. The market continued to gain ground on Thursday, but the day's gains were limited by strong technical resistance near the 23,500-point mark and renewed concerns over U-S tariff policies. Rita Jhang Interview (part B) Many Taiwanese voters are heading to the polls tomorrow to vote in recalls targeting 24 KMT lawmakers across the country, plsu suspended TPP Hsinchu Mayor Gao Hong An. ICRT spoke with academic and former secretary general of Green Party Taiwan, Dr. Rita Jhang, who described who has driven this movement. ***** Although she emphasized that there is hope in the new volunteers' participation, Jhang also raised concerns about increasing polarization (極化) and violence directed towards recall volunteers. Ukraine New Bill Restoring Independence of AntiCorruption Agencies Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has submitted a new bill restoring the independence of the country’s anti-corruption agencies. Zelenskyy said on Thursday the new bill that was sent to parliament for review “guarantees real strengthening of Ukraine’s law enforcement system, the independence of anti-corruption bodies, and reliable protection of the legal system from any Russian interference (干涉).” The two main agencies quickly welcomed the new bill. The development seeks to defuse tensions caused by his earlier approval of a controversial law placing them under his authority. That sparked a public outcry and protests, the first major demonstrations since the war began, as well as sharp criticism from the European Union. Trump spars with Fed chair over building renovations US President Donald Trump has made an unusual visit to the Federal Reserve's headquarters to inspect (檢查) the building's renovation… and continue his criticism of Fed Chair Jerome Powell. The president has been pressuring Powell to lower interest rates. Ira Spitzer reports. Italy Banksy Artwork Removed for Restoration and Display Art restorers have removed a deteriorating piece of graffiti by the street artist Banksy titled “The Migrant Child” from the side of a building overlooking a Venetian canal. It's a project to preserve the work for future public display. The removal and restoration is being financed by the Venice-based Banca Ifis carried out in consultation with people close to the secretive British street artist. The artwork depicting a shipwrecked child holding a pink smoke bomb and wearing a lifejacket appeared along Rio di San Pantalon in Venice in May 2019. The bank intends to display the work to the public as part of free cultural events organized by Ifis art once restoration (修復) is completed. No time frame was given. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

CTFA revokes suspended coach's license over bullying case Former Taipei Mayor Ko Wen-je's office head posts bail in corruption trial ICJ Delivers Ruling on Climate Change Turkey Rescuers Died Fighting Wildfire Iran Holds Public Holiday for Heatwave -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 75-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 23,063 on turnover of 5.3-billion N-T. The market came under heavy pressure on Tuesday - tumbling more than 350-points - amid increasing investors concerns over U-S tariff threats. Analyst says many investors are now turning downbeat about the ongoing tariff talks with the U-S - as the negotiations have yet to yield any conclusions. Competing rallies planned ahead of recall votes The D-P-P and the K-M-T are set to hold competing rallies on Ketagalan Boulevard in Taipei later this week as they make a final push ahead of Saturday's batch of recall votes targeting 24 K-M-T lawmakers. The D-P-P will be holding a rally there on Thursday. And according to the "Oppose CCP, Safeguard Taiwan Alliance," a livestreamed (直播) rally will also be held on Friday night on Jinan Road. Meanwhile, the K-M-T is set to hold a rally on Friday night on Ketagalan Boulevard. Traffic restrictions will be in place in the area on both days. 12 imported cases of dengue fever reported last week The Centers for Disease Control is reporting 12 new imported dengue fever cases. According to the C-D-C, the cases were recorded from July 15 through 21 and it's the highest single-weekly total this year. The C-D-C's Epidemic Intelligence Center says the cases came Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, Myanmar and Cambodia. A total of 109 confirmed imported cases of the mosquito-borne disease have been reported here in Taiwan so far this year and 91.7-per cent of them have come from Southeast Asia. Indonesia accounted for (佔) the most with 45 cases. US agrees trade & security deal with Philippines The US and the Philippines have agreed a trade deal that will see goods (商品) from the Southeast Asian country face a 19% tariff. US President Donald Trump announced the news following a visit from the nation's President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Nick Harper reports from Washington. Syria Finds Thousand Deaths in Sectarian Violence A Syrian government investigation says more than 1,400 people died in sectarian (宗派的) violence along the coast earlier this year. The clashes began in March after armed groups loyal to former President Bashar Assad attacked security forces of the new government. Retaliation led to widespread violence against civilians, with sectarian motives largely driven by revenge. Meanwhile, recent violence in Sweida province has displaced over 128-thousand people. The Syrian Red Crescent reports dire (嚴重的；危急的) conditions with shortages of supplies and damaged infrastructure. Aid deliveries have started, but concerns remain about the long-term displacement. British Wreck Found on Scottish Beach Archaeologists have identified a 250-year-old shipwreck uncovered on a remote Scottish beach. The 18th-century naval warship and whaling vessel called the Earl of Chatham was revealed (露出) in February 2024 after a storm swept away sand. Local farmers and researchers worked together to recover the ship’s 12 tons of oak timbers. Experts traced the ship’s history using tree-ring dating (樹木年輪學) and historical records. It was originally named HMS Hind and it served in the American War of Independence before becoming a whaling ship. It was wrecked off Sanday in 1788. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 38-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 23,301 on turnover of 5.2-billion N-T. The market lost ground on Monday as Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing fell into consolidation mode on the back of lingering concerns over U-S tariff policies. US House approves 'Honest Maps' amendment targeting China's depiction of Taiwan The U-S House has passed an amendment banning the Defense Department from creating, buying, or displaying any map that shows Taiwan as part of the People's Republic of China. The "Honest Maps" amendment was proposed by Republican Representative Tom Tiffany and approved as part of the Department of Defense Appropriations Act for the 2026 fiscal year. The amendment prohibits using any funds from the Act to create, buy, or display maps that show Taiwan, Kinmen, Matsu, Penghu, Wuciou, Green Island, or Orchid Island as part of the P-R-C. The Act includes 831.5-billion U-S dollars in discretionary (自行決定的) spending. Officials deny 32% US tariff rumors Economics minister Kuo Jyh-huei is dismissing claims that the U-S has already set a 32-per cent tariff rate for Taiwan. Speaking at a legislative hearing, Kuo said he has no idea where the rumors came from and he remains confident that Taiwan can negotiate a lower tariff rate than the 25-per cent given to Japan and South Korea. Cabinet spokesperson Michelle Lee is also denying the rumors (謠言) about the tariff rate - saying the government has yet to receive any notification from Washington. The statements come after former Broadcasting Corporation of China Chairman Jaw Shaw-kang made the claim about the 32-per cent tariff rate for Taiwan. Vice Premier Cheng Li-chun is leading a delegation to the U-S this week for a fourth round of tariff negotiations. HARVARD ARGUES WHITE HOUSE VIOLATED CONSTITUTION OVER FUNDING FREEZE Harvard University lawyers argued in a Boston court on Monday that the Trump administration blatantly violated the U.S. Constitution by freezing federal funding. It follows the White House freezing (停止) around two billion dollars' worth of grants to the elite (精英) private university in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Mitch McCann reports: Milan Mayor Denies Wrongdoing in Real Estate Probe Milan's mayor says he will not step down in the face of a sweeping probe into the city’s massive urban development over the last two decades. The city’s top urban development official resigned while denying wrongdoing. Milan prosecutors last week announced the investigation into Milan’s real estate boom that has seen skyscrapers transform the city’s skyline and entire neighborhoods rebuilt. It includes the construction of a new Olympic village for the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Games. The investigation targets more than 70 people for a system of corruption that prosecutors allege made Italy’s financial and fashion capital “a commodity to be plundered (被掠奪).’ That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 68-points this morning from Friday's close, at 23,314 on turnover of 5.3-billion N-T. The market gained solid ground on relativily strong turnover on Friday, after Wall Street rose to more records overnight following better than-expected updates on America's economy and a mixed set of profit reports from several leading U-S companies. Police investigating egg throwing in front of DPP's Taipei headquarters Police in Taipei say they're investigating incidents of eggs being thrown at the D-P-P headquarters building. Eggs were reportedly thrown at the building on Beiping East Road during an anti-recall rally organized by the Taiwan People's Party. Speaking at the event, T-P-P Chairman, Huang Kuo-chang called on voters to turn out (出席) in support of five of the K-M-T candidates facing recalls this coming Saturday. The event was attended by all eight members of the T-P-P legislative caucus and the five Taipei K-M-T lawmakers being targeted by the recall. Taiwan's new representative arrives in Thailand Taiwan's new representative to Thailand, Peter Lan has arrived in Bangkok to take up his post. Lan and his wife were greeted by his deputy and staff at the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Thailand, as well as Taiwanese businesspeople and expats on their arrival at Bangkok's main international airport. Speaking briefly there, Lan said he plans to promote (推動) cooperation and build connections between Taiwan and Thailand in trade, technology, education, labor and culture. Lan arrived in Thailand after serving as the head of the foreign ministry's Department of East Asian and Pacific Affairs since July of 2023. Indonesia Ferry Fire Leaves 3 Dead Indonesian rescuers evacuating people from a passenger ferry that caught fire at sea say more than 560 were rescued and three died. The ferry was making a regular half-day journey to Manado, the capital of North Sulawesi province, from a port in the same province Sunday when the fire started about midday. Rescue crews pulled many people from the sea, and local fishermen also saved some survivors (倖存者) as they were drifting in the choppy waters. Authorities previously said five people died, but revised it to three Monday after two passengers initially reported as dead were saved in a hospital. Request to unseal Epstein grand jury transcripts likely to disappoint, ex-prosecutors say A former prosecutor says a request to unseal the Epstein grand jury transcripts (文字記錄) are likely to disappoint. AP correspondent Julie Walker reports Japan Decontaminated Soil at PM Office Decontaminated but slightly radioactive soil from Fukushima has been delivered to the Japanese prime minister’s office to be reused in an effort to showcase its safety. Officials say the soil meets safety standards set by the Environment Ministry and the International Atomic Energy Agency. It will be covered with topsoil in a lawn garden to keep radiation levels negligible and monitored regularly. Saturday's delivery marks the first reuse of such soil outside Fukushima experiments (實驗). The government hopes this move will reassure the public of its safety as it seeks to reduce the massive volume of contaminated soil stored near the nuclear plant. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 232-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 23,346 on turnover of $9.8-billion N-T. Shares in Taiwan closed slightly higher Thursday as contract chipmaker TSMC moved in a narrow rage ahead of an investor conference slated to open after the trading session. Analysts say investors remained cautious before the chipmaker gave guidance for the third quarter, and it was no surprise that the Taiex fell into consolidation mode throughout the session. Attention shifted to select old economy stocks and the buying provided some support to the broader market. 5 arrested on suspicion of money laundering via virtual accounts The Criminal Investigation Bureau says it had busted a money laundering ring and arrested five people suspected of using e-commerce platforms to conceal (隱藏) the flow of illicit funds. The CIB says the raid and arrests followed an investigation of suspicious financial flows, facilitated by illegal third-party payment providers and a gambling syndicate (聯合組織). Investigators say the money laundering ring was essentially providing "real-time payment services" for a gambling syndicate involving about $30-billion NT over a one-year period. After months of surveillance and investigation, the CIB task force launched a coordinated raid of the two third-party payment companies on March 13-th and arrested five suspects. They were handed over to the New Taipei District Prosecutors Office on charges that included fraud and money laundering. Trump denies plans to fire Fed Chair Powell Donald Trump has denied he plans to fire the head of the US central bank Jerome Powell. The president has reportedly drafted a letter of termination (解僱) for the Federal Reserve chairman, but is now walking back claims he's planning to let him go. Kate Fisher reports from Washington. UN Chief Wants More Progress from Cyprus Talks The United Nations chief says he would have liked more results from his meetings with the rival leaders of divided Cyprus. The Turkish Cypriot leader said Thursday that he was “very, very upset” that there was no agreement on opening four new border crossings. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called the meetings “constructive” (建設性的) and pointed to progress on four of the six initiatives the leaders agreed to in March. But he cautioned that “there’s a long road ahead.” The Mediterranean island was divided in 1974 when Turkey invaded following a coup by supporters of uniting the island with Greece. Only Turkey recognizes a Turkish Cypriot declaration of independence, and it maintains more than 35,000 troops in the island’s northern third. Brazil Lower House Passes Controversial Environmental Legislation Brazil’s lower house has passed a controversial bill that overhauls environmental legislation. The bill simplifies environmental licensing, allowing companies to self-declare compliance (遵守) online. Environmental experts warn this could increase pollution, deforestation, and water scarcity while threatening protected areas. Over 300 non-profits, including Greenpeace and WWF Brazil, have opposed the bill, calling it a major setback. The legislation now awaits President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva’s decision to either approve or veto it, fully or partially. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Taiwan: hope China will follow olympic protocol in naming Beijing says, Chinese media will continue to refer to Taiwan's team as "Taipei, China" in reports on the upcoming World Games in Chengdu… while Taiwan said it "hopes" the Chinese sides will follow the "Olympic Protocol" and refer to its team as "Chinese Taipei." A spokesperson from China's Taiwan Affairs Office said that protocol only applies to sports-related matters and has been, and will continue to be, implemented at international sporting events held in China… but he said that the protocol does not apply to news media or areas beyong sports events. The spokesman's remarks indicate that China will continue to use the name that Taiwanese authorities see as diminishing of Taiwan's status- Taipei, China- instead of the olympic-approved "Chinese Taipei." The situation mirrors a controversy earlier this year during the Asian Winter Games in Harbin, where both the Taiwan Office and media in China referred to the delegation of Taiwan as "Taipei, China." The games are set to be held in Chengdu in august. Molicel cell maker adjusts capacity following plant fire Molie Quantum Energy Corporation announced yesterday that it will adjust production capacity at its Southern Taiwan Science Park facility. The park will support high-end product shipments originally (起初) handled by the Kaohsiung facility. This comes after a fire broke out at its lithium-ion battery cell plant in Kaohsiung earlier this week. The company's battery cell brand, Molicel, supplies premium markets including supercars, aerospace, and AI server data center backup systems. The Southern Taiwan Science Park facility's three production lines will begin assisting with shipments next month. (AH-CNA) GHF: 20 Palestinians Killed at Distribution Site An American aid organization says 20 Palestinians were killed at a distribution site in Gaza. The Gaza Humanitarian Foundation said it believed 19 died from trampling Wednesday at its food distribution (分發) center and one was stabbed. The group accuses Hamas of spreading panic but provided no evidence. Witnesses said GHF guards threw stun grenades and used pepper spray on people pressing to get into the site before it opened, causing panic. The United Nations reports 875 Palestinians have died near aid sites since May. Meanwhile, hospital officials say Israeli strikes killed 54 others, including 14 children. Israel says its strikes target Hamas, accusing the group of hiding among civilians. Officials downgrade Alaska tsunami warning after 7.3 magnitude earthquake From the US….. A Tsunami warning for parts of Alaska has now been downgraded (降級). AP’s Lisa Dwyer reports Belgium Festival Fire A huge fire has damaged (損壞) the main stage at the Tomorrowland festival site in Belgium. The fire broke out on Wednesday in the town of Boom, north of Brussels. No concerts were happening at the time and no injuries were reported. I The festival, which attracts tens of thousands of visitors from across Europe, was set to open on Friday. In a statement shared online, festival organizers said the stage was “severely damaged” but that no one was hurt. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 132-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 22,968 on turnover of $5.5-billion N-T. Japan's defense ministry highlights Chinese military drills around Taiwan Japanese Defense Minister Gen Nakatani highlighted Chinese drills around Taiwan yesterday in the defense white paper. His ministry emphasized China's intensification of the drills surrounding Taiwan since last year, and they accuse Beijing of trying to isolate the DPP government. The document points out that China has been actively increasing its military presence around Taiwan in recent years. The report noted Beijing's large-scale drills after President Lai Ching Te's inauguration in May of last year, as well as those around National Day on October 10th. Beijing aims to criticize the Lai administration and deter the US from deepening security ties with Taiwan, according to the report. The PRC further aims to divide Taiwanese society and isolate the Lai government by using a dual strategy of hardline (強硬的) military action in addition to pushing to strengthen economic ties with Taiwan. The report says that the exercises around Taiwan share three main characteristics, including combat training, propaganda orientation, and normalization. Notably, the report emphasizes that the exercises serve as a political messaging tool for the CCP, who broadcast footage of the drills widely. Nakatani says, Japan will reinforce its defense capabilities and respond calmly. (AH-CNA) EU Seeking Action from Israel on Aid to Gaza The European Union is seeking updates and more action from Israel on implementing a new deal to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza. The deal aims to provide food and fuel to Gaza’s 2.3 million residents after more than 21 months of war. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said Tuesday there was a need for effective implementation (執行) and called for a ceasefire. Ministers meeting in Brussels will also discuss Iran’s nuclear program, tensions in Georgia and Moldova and new sanctions on Russia. Supreme Court paves way for Department of Education dismantling The US Supreme Court has paved the way for the dismantling of the Department of Education - saying the Trump administration can move ahead with mass layoffs. A lower court had blocked the move over concerns that gutting (摧毀內部) the agency would undermine its mission - which is dictated by Congress. Toni Waterman has more. France PM Proposes Cutting Two Public Holidays France’s prime minister has proposed cutting two public holidays to save money in next year’s budget. He suggested on Tuesday to remove Easter Monday and Victory Day which marks the Allied victory over the Nazis. The prime minister argued that this would boost tax revenues from increased economic activity. The proposal is part of a broader plan to save $51.3 billion US dollars and reduce France’s debt and deficit. President Emmanuel Macron tasked the prime minister with balancing these cuts while increasing defense spending. The plan faces opposition from unions and political rivals (競爭對手). The government has no parliamentary majority and must secure support to pass the budget this fall. That leaves its fate uncertain. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 3-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 22,618 on turnover of 3.5-billion N-T. Shares in Taiwan closed lower Monday as investors remained concerned U.S. President Donald Trump's tariff policies after he intensified trade tensions by announcing a 30 percent levy on imports from Europe and Mexico over the weekend. Analysts say the bellwether electronics sector led the downturn on the broader market as investors locked in profits built by the sector last week, helping the Taiex rebound. KMT Volunteers Receive Deferred Prosecution for Forged Recall Petitions Nineteen individuals associated with the KMT New Taipei City party headquarters have been granted deferred prosecution, in a case involving forged recall petitions. The New Taipei District Prosecutor's Office is investigating alleged forgery in recall petitions targeting DPP legislators including Su Chiao-hui, Chang Hong-lu and Lee Kun-cheng, indicting over 31 people on charges related to violating personal data protection laws and forgery last month. Now the office says 19 individuals, including KMT volunteers and relatives, admitted to forging (偽造) signatures on recall petitions, and received a one-year deferred prosecution. The individuals must also complete three hours of legal education and eighter pay a fine of up to $30-thousand NT to the public treasury, or perform 40 hours of community service. (NS) Trump threatens 100% tariffs if no Ukraine-Russia ceasfire in 50 days US President Donald Trump has threatened "secondary tariffs" if Russia does not reach a ceasefire (停火) deal with Ukraine in the next 50 days. He has also agreed to send new weapons to Ukraine under an agreement that will see NATO members buy American-made arms. Nick Harper reports from Washington. UN Global Vaccine Coverage Report Warns of Unequal Access U.N. health officials reported that more than 14 million children did not receive a single vaccine last year. In their annual estimate of global vaccine coverage, released today, the World Health Organization and UNICEF said access to vaccines remained “deeply unequal” and that conflict and humanitarian crises quickly unraveled progress. The data showed that nine countries accounted for 52% of all children who missed out on immunizations entirely: Nigeria, India, Sudan, Congo, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Yemen, Afghanistan and Angola. The WHO and UNICEF said that coverage against measles rose slightly, with 76% of children worldwide receiving both vaccine doses. But experts say measles vaccine rates need to reach 95% to prevent outbreaks of the extremely contagious (傳染性的) disease. WHO noted that 60 countries reported big measles outbreaks last year, including the US, which is now having its worst measles outbreak in more than three decades. Germany Tarantula Smuggling Attempt Busted Customs officials have released photos from a seizure of roughly 1-thousand-500 young tarantulas found inside plastic containers that had been hidden in chocolate spongecake boxes shipped to an airport in western Germany. Customs officials said the shipment was found at Cologne Bonn airport in a package that had arrived from Vietnam. The tarantulas were discovered three weeks ago. But the customs office only made the photos public on Monday. The office says many of the eight-legged creatures didn't survive the trip, while survivors were given to the care of an expert handler. Criminal proceedings are underway (正在進行) against the intended recipient. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 72-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 22,679 on turnover of 39-billion N-T. Shares in Taiwan closed higher Friday as rotational buying escalated, helping the broader market recoup its losses earlier in the session at a time of lingering concerns over the United States' arbitrary (隨意的) tariff threats. TSMC's suppliers got a boost from rotational buying, and Largan Precision Co., a supplier of smartphone camera lenses to Apple Inc., reported a large foreign exchange loss for the second quarter, citing a stronger Taiwan dollar. 3 soldiers injured during drills Three soldiers were injured in an accident over the weekend while participating in the Han Kuang drills. The injuries were not life-threatening. The incident occurred when a light reconnaissance tactical vehicle assigned to the 8th Army Corps struck a roadside curb in Kaohsiung. Officials say, the three injured servicemen in the vehicle were taken to a hospital for treatment, where doctors found that they sustained (持續) bone fractures and contusions. Authorities plan to strengthen training on military vehicle driving safety. That's the third military vehicle-related accident since the live-fire phase of the annual Han Kuang exercises began on Wednesday, but no injuries were reported in the other two incidents. (AH-CNA) F4 reunites during concert at Taipei Arena Taiwanese boy band F4 reunited on stage over the weekend during the finale of pop-rock band Mayday's concert at Taipei Arena. The performance was the first time since 2016 that the members of F4 shared a public appearance together. Their reunion as guests at Mayday's final of eight Taipei Arena concerts was revealed last month, and Mayday members say the appearance (公開露面,) took two years of planning. F4 officiallly disbanded in 2009 and its members spread into different areas of the Asian entertainment industry. (AH-CNA) France Announces More Military Spending French President Emmanuel Macron has announced $7.6 billion euros in additional military spending over the next two years. Speaking Sunday, he cited unprecedented threats from Russia, terrorism and online attacks. Macron aims to double annual defense spending to $74.8 billion by 2027, compared to $37 billion in 2017. He has stressed the need for a powerful military to protect freedom and Europe amid growing dangers, including Russia’s war in Ukraine and global disinformation (假資訊) campaigns. Macron also calls for a strategic dialogue with European partners on France’s nuclear arsenal. His plan faces criticism from left-wing parties over potential cuts to social programs. US Kentucky Church Shooting Leaves Multiple Injured From the US….. Multiple (多個的) people have been hurt in a church shooting in Kentucky. AP correspondent Julie Walker reports Trump UK 2nd State Visit U.S. President Donald Trump will make an unprecedented (空前的) second state visit to the U.K. between Sept. 17 and 19th. Buckingham Palace says Trump will be accompanied (陪伴) by his wife, Melania Trump during the three-day visit. He will be hosted by King Charles II and Queen Camilla at Windsor Castle. No U.S. president has been invited for a second state visit. Trump also conducted a state visit in 2019 during his first term when he was hosted by Charles’s late mother, Queen Elizabeth II. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. MOFA thanks NATO chief for comments in China's ambition of taking Taiwan The Ministry of Foreign Affairs says it welcomes comments by NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte concerning China's military buildup and its ambitions toward Taiwan. According to the ministry, the Lai administration will continue working with partners such as the G-7 and NATO to contribute to peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific and Taiwan Strait. The statement comes after Rutte has issued a warning over China's threat to Taiwan earlier this week - in which he called the growing alignment (結盟) between Beijing, Moscow and other authoritarian regimes a serious threat to global stability. Rutte was speaking at a press conference with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz in Berlin - and said China is increasingly preparing to pursue its ambitions to take over Taiwan and will likely do so in coordination with Russia. Rutte, made a similar warning in a recent interview with the New York Times, saying Beijing could attempt to seize Taiwan while urging Moscow to launch a parallel attack on NATO territory. Tainan cancels urban resilience drills due to typhoon The Tainan City Government has announced that the city's urban resilience drills scheduled for July 16 will be canceled, as it prioritizes disaster relief and reconstruction (重建) after Typhoon Danas battered the south. According to Tainan Mayor Huang Wei-che, efforts are still underway to restore power and water to areas affected by the storm - which caused power outages for 282,000 households and downed over 600 utility poles. Some 84-per cent of power has now been restored. Huang says over 1,300 military personnel are supporting disaster relief. The Chiayi City and County governments have also announced the cancellation of their urban resilience drills - which had been scheduled for July 15. US weighs new severe sanctions on Russia Russia could face severe new US sanctions as President Donald Trump and Republican congressional leaders begin to show more openness to a bill that would punish (懲罰) Russia for its war in Ukraine. Kate fisher reports from Washington Ecuador Passes Law Allowing Private Companies to Manage Protected Land Ecuador’s parliament has passed a law allowing private companies to help manage protected areas, prompting backlash from Indigenous groups and environmental advocates. Critics say the legislation violates the country’s constitution and at least 15 international agreements, and was approved without proper (恰當的) consultation. They warn it could lead to the erosion of Indigenous land rights and environmental protections. The government argues the law, which passed on Thursday, will strengthen oversight, promote ecotourism and combat illegal mining without allowing extractive activity. Moo Deng Celebrates Birthday Thousands of fans have flocked to a Thailand zoo to celebrate the first birthday of Moo Deng, the baby pygmy hippo that's become a social media sensation. The Khao Kheow Open Zoo on Thursday launched a four-day event featuring free entry for children under 12. Fans from around the world, including the United States and Malaysia, traveled to see Moo Deng, who charmed visitors with her playful antics (滑稽動作). The zoo also held auctions of Moo Deng-themed items to support animal care. Pygmy hippos are native to West Africa. They are endangered, with only 2,000-3,000 left in the wild. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

No bumps in trade talks with US Educational facility typhoon damage estimated at NT$260 million Red Sea Cargo Ship Sinks After Houthi Attack Trump hosts African leaders at White House Czech Republic Bans DeepSeek Products in State Admins -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 109-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 22,253 on turnover of 4.8-billion N-T. The market lost ground on Tuesday amid lingering investor concerns over U-S tariff policies. Market watchers say investors appear cautious, as they await a possible trade agreement between Taiwan and the U-S, while foreign institutional investors continue to hold a large number of short futures contracts, indicating they also remain wary of the tariff issues. Taiwan to ask allies to raise China flight route issue at ICAO meet The government reportedly plans to ask Taiwan's diplomatic and unofficial allies to raise the issue of China's decision to unilaterally launch a new flight route in the Taiwan Strait at the International Civil Aviation Organization's triennial assembly (三年一次的). It comes comes after China on Sunday announced that it will open the northwest-to-southeast W-121 route connecting Dongshan in Zhejiang province to the north-south M-503 flight route in the Taiwan Strait. The International Civil Aviation Organization's triennial assembly will be taking place in Montreal in September Taiwan last attended the event as a guest in 2013. CDC offers free syphilis tests to under-24s as youth cases rise The Centers for Disease Control has rolled out free, rapid syphilis tests to people under the age of 24. The program began on July 1 and is available through 13 participating hospitals nationwide. The C-D-C's Division of Chronic Infectious Disease says the tests have been introduced to a rise in the number of cases of syphilis among people aged 13 to 24. According to the C-D-C, the number of cases involving people in that age bracket (年齡段) has increased for four consecutive years. The C-D-C says the free syphilis testing program has no set deadline or quota. Texas flooding death toll rises to over 100 people More than 100 people, many of them children, are now confirmed dead after flash floods ravaged a part of central Texas. Search efforts are now in their fifth day. US correspondent Kate Fisher reports Canada Arrests for Land Seizing Plot Canadian police have arrested four individuals, including two active members of Canada's military, for allegedly plotting to seize land in the province of Quebec. Royal Canadian Mounted Police announced on Tuesday that three suspects are charged with facilitating “terrorist activity.” They allegedly planned to form an anti-government militia and conducted military-style training and scouting operations. Police said that the investigation began in March 2023. That led to January 2024 searches that uncovered explosives, ammunition, and firearms. A fourth suspect faces weapons-related charges. Authorities describe the case as ideologically (意識形態上) motivated extremism. The suspects allegedly used Instagram to recruit (招募) members. Greece Closes Acropolis Due to Heat Authorities in Athens closed the Acropolis for several hours due to high temperatures. The closure lasted from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Tuesday. Mandatory work breaks remain in effect in parts of Greece, especially islands and central regions where temperatures have exceeded 40 degrees Celsius. These measures, which began Monday, include fines of 2,000 euros per worker for noncompliance. Officials warn that the risk of wildfires, already at a "very high" level in the eastern mainland, could worsen (惡化) later this week. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 53-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 22,375 on turnover of 3.7-billion N-T. The market lost ground on Monday as investors anxiously awaited for news on "reciprocal tariffs" to be imposed by the United States following a 90-day pause which ends on Wednesday. Market watchers say investors were nervous (緊張的) due to a lack of guidance concerning the status of tariff talks between Taiwan and the U-S. Power grid disrupted as Danas swept across Taiwan Tai-Power says electricity has been restored to over 450,000 households affected by power outages as Danas swept across Taiwan yesterday. According to the state-generator, more than 650 electricity poles and three transmission towers collapsed (倒塌) as a result of the storm. That resulted in over 710,000 households being left without power at the peak of the storm. Tai-Power says the hardest-hit areas included Chiayi city and country - which together saw more than 250,000 outages. While 190,000 households lost power in Tainan. Tai-Power says it mobilized 4,000 personnel for emergency repairs. Two women on scooter killed in knife attack in New Taipei Police in New Taipei say a man remains in custody (拘留) following the stabbing of two woman in the city's Tucheng District. According to law enforcement officials, the two women died after they were allegedly stabbed multiple times by one of the women's husbands while on a scooter. Police say the man had been following them in car prior to the stabbing. Both women were rushed by a nearby hospital, but were later pronounced dead. The suspect was arrested by police in Changhua County some three hours later. The suspect is being held in custody as prosecutors investigate whether he should be charged with murder. More than 90 dead in Texas floods as search efforts continue Search efforts are continuing for a fourth day for dozens of people still missing following flash floods in central Texas - even as more storms are forecast (預報). US correspondent Kate Fisher reports UN Resolution Against Taliban Oppression of Women and Girls The U.N. General Assembly has adopted a resolution over U.S. objections calling on Afghanistan’s Taliban rulers to reverse their worsening oppression of women and girls and eliminate all terrorist organizations. The 11-page resolution also emphasizes “the importance of creating opportunities for economic recovery, development and prosperity (繁榮) in Afghanistan,” and urges donors to address the country’s dire humanitarian and economic crisis. The resolution adopted Monday is not legally binding but is seen as a reflection of world opinion. The vote was 116 in favor, with two — the United States and close ally Israel — opposed, and 12 abstentions, including Russia, China, India and Iran. UAE Singing Highway A highway in the United Arab Emirates now plays Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony as cars drive over special rumble strips. Known as the "Street of Music," this art project spans nearly a kilometer on the E84 highway coming into the city of Fujairah. Drivers in the right-hand lane can hear the iconic "Ode to Joy" as they drive over the rumble strips. The strips look like a larger, rectangular version of the dash lines separating the three-lane highway, and the grooves of the road combine with the speed of the vehicle to make music. The experience is a collaboration (合作) between Fujairah Fine Arts Academy and local authorities which aims to blend art with daily life. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened marginally higher this morning from Friday's close, at 22,550 on turnover of 2.1 -billion N-T. The market closed down on Friday as uncertainties over U-S tariff policies continued to impact investor sentiment after U-S President Donald Trump said letters will be countries specifying what "reciprocal" tariffs they will face without an extension of a 90-day pause. Danas downgraded as storm moves away from Taiwan The Central Weather Administration has downgraded typhoon Danas to a tropical storm as it continues to move away from Taiwan. The storm is currently located some 70-kilometers north-northwest of Taipei and moving in a north-north-easterly direction at speeds of between 10 and 16-kilometers-an-hour. Danas now has a radius of 100-kilometers and is packing sustained wind speeds of 90-kilometers-an-hour, with gust of up to 119-kilometers-an-hour. Land and seas warnings are still in effect - with the land warnings currently covering Keelung, New Taipei, Taipei, Taoyuan, Hsinchu, Miaoli and Yilan. The weather administration is expected to lift the remaining land warnings by noon at the earliest, while the sea warning is expected to remain in place until this evening. The High Speed Rail Corporation has now resumed full services, while the Taiwan Railway Corporation will resume regular services this afternoon. Tai-Power says some 490,000 households lost power as the storm impacted Taiwan proper - and some 380,00 of households in are still waiting for power supplies to resume. Most of those effected households are in the Tainan area. Israel Houthis Trade Fire Israel’s military launched airstrikes early today targeting ports and facilities held by Yemen’s Houthi rebels, with the rebels responding with missile fire targeting Israel. The attacks came after a suspected Houthi attack targeting a ship in the Red Sea that caught fire and took on water, later forcing its crew to abandon the vessel. The Israeli military said it struck Houthi-held ports at Hodeida, Ras Isa and Salif. The Houthis then responded with an apparent missile attack on Israel. The Israeli military said it attempted to intercept (攔截) the missile, but it appeared to make impact, though there were no immediate reports of injuries from the attack. Pressure from Trump for trade deals before Wednesday deadline, but hints of more time for talks The U.S. is putting the pressure (壓力) on trading partners to make a new deal before a Wednesday deadline. AP correspondent Donna Warder reports. Spain begins BullRunning Festival Tens of thousands of revelers have packed Pamplona’s town hall square in northern Spain to celebrate the traditional firework blast that marks the start of the San Fermin bull-running festival. The highlight of the nine-day festival, which started on Sunday, is the early morning bull runs, when thousands of runners sprint to avoid six bulls charging along a winding cobblestoned route to the city’s bullring. The festival is not without controversy, with gorings and injuries among runners, as well as bull fights where animals that run int he morning are slain by professional matadors (鬥牛士) each afternoon. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 44-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 22,757 on turnover of $4.5-billion N-T. MODA to bring Threads under its anti-fraud regulatory framework The Ministry of Digital Affairs says it will officially place Threads under its anti-fraud regulatory framework from September 15. According to the ministry, the text-based social media app is being included under regulatory management as it has a growing number of users in Taiwan and poses the risk of it being used to publish fraudulent advertisements. It's the seventh online advertising platform to have regulated under the Fraud Crime Hazard Prevention Act - which went into effect in July of last year. The Act was introduced as part of efforts to push major online platform operators Meta, Line, Instagram, TikTok, Youtube, and Google to implement stronger anti-fraud measures. The law requires platforms to verify (核實) advertisers, develop anti-fraud strategies, and promptly remove fraudulent content upon request. They must also publish transparency reports detailing their efforts at combating online fraud. Freediver breaks 2 continental records at Japan world championship Taiwan freediver Zhan Kai-xiang has won three gold medals and broken two Asian records at the 34th AIDA Freediving Pool World Championship in Wakayama. Zhan won gold in the Dynamic With Fins and Dynamic Without Fins events - swimming 300-meters with fins and 240-meters without, both in a single breath. His 300-meter swim also set a new Taiwan national record. He also won silver in the Dynamic With Bifins event, covering 270-meters in one breath, and set another national record in the Static Apnea by holding his breath for 8-minutes and 41-seconds. Zhan was crowned the overall men's champion. It was his third gold medal at the AIDA competition (競賽). SKorea Claims North Korean Man in Custody After Crossing Border South Korea’s military says an unidentified North Korean man crossed the heavily fortified land border separating the two Koreas and is in custody. The South’s Joint Chiefs of Staff said today that the military identified and tracked the individual near the military demarcation line and conducted (實施) a guiding operation to take the person into custody. It said authorities plan to investigate the border crossing and did not immediately say whether they view the incident as a defection attempt. The Joint Chiefs said it wasn’t immediately detecting any signs of unusual military activity by the North. Trump and Putin discuss Ukraine, Iran in phone call says Kremlin US President Donald Trump and Russia's leader Vladimir Putin have had "a detailed discussion" about the war in Ukraine and Iran in an almost hour-long phone call according to (據…所說) the Kremlin. Ukraine's President Volodomyr Zelensky is also planning to speak to Mr Trump as soon as Friday, after Washington announced it would stop sending some weapons to Kyiv. Jagruti Dave reports from Washington. Ethiopia Dam Completed Ethiopia’s prime minister says the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam on the Nile has been completed. Egypt has long opposed (反對) the dam as a potential threat to its water supply. Egypt relies almost entirely on the Nile for agriculture and its population of over 100 million. Ethiopia disputes these concerns and plans to officially inaugurate (發動) the dam soon. On Thursday, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said Ethiopia's growth would not come at the expense of Egypt and Sudan. The dam, on the Blue Nile near the Sudan border, already generates power and ultimately (最終) is expected to double Ethiopia's electricity output. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 129-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 22,707 on turnover of 8.7-billion N-T. The market closed moderatly higher on Wednesday on the back of last-ditch buying focusing on select electronics and old economy heavyweights. But turnover remained thin - with market watchers saying that's an indication that many investors are uneasy as the end of a 90-day pause on U-S tariffs is fast approaching. VP warns Taiwan and the US face 'bumps' in ongoing tariff talks Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim says she believes Taiwan and the U-S are having some "bumps" due to the potential imposition of sweeping tariffs on Taiwanese goods by Washington … …. but both sides are still talking with the hope of reaching a mutually acceptable solution. Hsiao made the comments at reception hosted by the American Institute in Taiwan to celebrate U-S Independence Day. Meanwhile, A-I-T Director Raymond Greene, said in his address that the U-S and Taiwan's economies are "well-positioned to help each other thrive (蓬勃發展), especially in new and critical technologies" … And Greene also praised Taiwan's expertise in high-tech, large-scale production saying its "the perfect match for innovative U-S drone companies." CDC reports 1st imported case of P. knowlesi malaria in 20 years The Centers for Disease Control is reporting Taiwan's first case of P. knowlesi malaria in 20 years. The strain is primarily found in Southeast Asia and the C-D-C says the case was imported. C-D-C spokesman Philip Luo says the patient began experiencing symptoms before entering Taiwan on June 19 and sought medical attention on June 25. He was diagnosed with malaria two days later and remains hospitalized. The new case has prompted (促使，提示) the C-D-C to lift the travel alert for the Philippines to Level 1 for malaria. US Freezes Some Weapons Shipments to Ukraine The White House has confirmed that the US has frozen the shipment of some air defense and precision guided weapons that were on track to be sent to Ukraine. Officials said the decision followed an assessment (評估) of U.S. stockpiles. Kate Fisher reports from Washington Indonesia Ferry Sinking Leaves Dozens Missing Rescuers are searching for 43 people missing in rough seas overnight after a ferry carrying 65 people sank near Indonesia’s resort island of Bali. The ferry sank almost half an hour after leaving East Java’s Ketapang port late Wednesday. The ferry carried 53 passengers, 12 crew members and 22 vehicles. Two bodies have been recovered and 20 were rescued, many of them unconscious after drifting in choppy (波浪滔滔的) waters for hours. Nine boats have been searching for the missing people. Japan Emporer to Honor WWII POWS in Mongolia Japan's Emperor Naruhito has announced plans to honor Japanese World War II prisoners during his visit to Mongolia next week. Speaking Wednesday, he highlighted the hardships faced by thousands of Japanese POWs who were captured (俘虜) after the Soviet Union declared war on Japan in 1945. Around 12-to-14-thousand prisoners were forced into labor under harsh (嚴酷的) conditions, with about 1,700 dying in Mongolia. Naruhito’s visit marks the 80th anniversary of the war's end as he continues his efforts to promote peace. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Tai-Ex opening down 90 points Lai calls for public support of military investment Whooping cough cases hit 10-year high after surge in June Europe experiencing heat wave Trump's visit to a new migrant detention center -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 163-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 22,419 on turnover of 6.4-billion N-T. The market tumbled more than 300-points on Monday, as investor concerns over the strength of the New Taiwan dollar against the U-S dollar persisted and on the back of selling by foreign institutional investors. New national, local rules taking effect in Taiwan in July Several amended national regulations are gradually taking effect this month. They include the Central Weather Administration's wind strength forecast for coastal townships during typhoon season. The administration will also hold video conferences with the mayors and magistrates of coastal locations to address the difference in wind strength observed inland and around the coast. The move is part of efforts to provide local leaders with more information when contemplating (考慮) work and school suspensions. Meanwhile, The Ministry of the Interior will be carrying out inspections of air raid shelters beginning this month. That means buildings constructed with air raid shelters will need to be reported to the government and be subjected to safety inspections. The ministry says the safety checks are aimed at ensuring that the buildings will be up to standard for use by members of the general public during emergencies and drills. CWA issues heat alerts The Central Weather Administration has issued heat alerts for parts of the island today. "Orange" alerts are in effect for New Taipei City and Changhua - where the daily maximum temperature is forecast to reaches 36-degrees for three consecutive (連續的) days. While "Yellow" alerts have been issued for Taoyuan, Taichung, Nantou, Yunlin, Chiayi, Tainan, Kaohsiung, Pingtung and Hualien - where the daily maximum temperature is forecast to reaches 36-degrees today. All of the alerts will remain in effect through late this afternoon. US Idaho New Info on Shootnig of Firefighters From the US…. Police have new information on the shooting deaths of two firefighters in Idaho. AP's Lisa Dwyer reports. UK Investigation into Glastonbury Performance British police have launched a criminal investigation into a performance by rap-punk duo Bob Vylan at the Glastonbury Festival on Saturday, when the group led chants of “death to the IDF,” or Israel Defense Forces. The U.S. State Department has revoked their visas, citing the performance as a “hateful tirade.” The BBC said it regretted livestreaming the act and called it antisemitic. Prime Minister Keir Starmer has condemned the chants (反复喊叫) as hate speech. Irish-language band Kneecap, which has been in the headlines for its pro-Palestinian stance, is also under investigation. Police said both performances have been recorded as public order incidents. Brazil National Museum Offers Sneak Peak Brazil’s National Museum has offered a glimpse at its renovated building and collection. It comes two days before it reopens for visitors and seven years after a devastating fire destroyed it. Journalists and special guests previewed the renovated museum in Rio de Janeiro, where they could also see a large part of its 20-million-artifact collection. Brazil’s Education Minister says the museum’s complete renovation is slated for (預定的) completion by the end of 2027. He added that the reconstruction budget of almost $95 million is being split between public and private companies. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 71-points this morning from Friday's close, at 22,508 on turnover of 5.4-billion N-T. The market closed in positive territory on Friday, as investor concerns about U-S tariffs receded on the back of positive signs from Taiwan-US negotiations and as the Israel-Iran ceasefire remains in place - lessening worries about crude supplies. Taiwan and UK hold trade talks Annual trade talks between Taiwan and the U-K are underway in Taipei. The U-K delegation is being led by Minister for Trade Policy and Economic Security Douglas Alexander. According to the British Office, Alexander is visiting Taiwan for two days, during which time he will meet with President Lai Ching-te and co-chair the trade talks with Taiwan's Deputy Economics Minister Cynthia Jiang. The British Office says Alexander will tour the Taiwan Space Agency in Hsinchu, engage (接合，互動) with representatives from British and Taiwanese businesses and witness the signing of three Enhanced Trade Partnership pillars between the U-K and Taiwan. Bad weather disrupts flights at Kaohsiung and Tainan airports And, Heavy rain on Sunday forced temporary suspensions of operations at Kaohsiung International Airport and Tainan Airport - disrupting multiple flights. According to the Civil Aviation Administration, Kaohsiung International Airport halted ground operations at 3:15PM and resumed service some 45-minutes later, affecting 12 flights. While Tainan Airport suspended ground operations from 4:41PM to 5:37PM, when two flights were impacted. The administration says flight delays could also affect other airports with connections to Tainan and has instructed terminals to notify passengers via bulletin boards, scrolling (捲動) displays and public announcements. US Senate Pushes Ahead with Trump Tax Break From the US….. The Senate is pushing ahead on President Donald Trump's tax break and spending cut plan AP correspondent Donna Warder reports Turkey Detains Dozens During Istanbul Pride Turkish authorities have detained over 50 people during Istanbul Pride on Sunday, continuing a decade-long crackdown on the event. A heavy police presence forced organizers to change gathering locations multiple times. Local media say 54 people were detained, including six lawyers. By Sunday evening, seven had been released, while 47 remained in custody (拘留). Istanbul Pride, once attracting tens of thousands, has been banned since 2015 as the government appeals to conservative supporters. France Cannes Bans Large Cruise Ships from Harbor The French city of Cannes is banning cruise ships carrying over 1,000 passengers from its harbor starting next year. The decision is part of a wider backlash against overtourism. City officials also cited concerns about pollution. Larger ships must use smaller boats to transfer visitors to the port. The new rules limit daily disembarkations (下船) to 6,000 passengers. Cannes is seeking to balance tourism’s economic benefits while managing growing crowds. Cruise ship companies say such measures are counterproductive. Nearby Nice and other European cities have also introduced cruise ship restrictions recently. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 12-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 22,504 on turnover of $4.8-billion N-T. Cabinet passes plan to develop central Taiwan smart manufacturing hub Premier Cho Jung-tai instructed the Ministry of Economic Affairs to work closely with local governments based on a draft plan to transform central Taiwan into a smart manufacturing hub. The premier issued the instruction during a weekly Cabinet meeting, at which a draft plan to turn central Taiwan into a global hub of smart manufacturing with existing industries and new businesses was approved. The Cabinet says machinery and precision manufacturing industries in Taichung will be transformed through the introduction of artificial intelligence to improve production efficiency and integration of the supply chain. A-I is also expected to also help the metal manufacturing business in Changhua to reduce production costs, improve energy efficiency (效率) and make operations more environmentally friendly. While technologies will be introduced in Nantou and Yunlin to improve efficiency in production and distribution of their respective agricultural and aquacultural products. Construction on Taichung MRT Blue Line begins Construction of the Taichung M-R-T's Blue Line has gotten underway at a groundbreaking ceremony. The city government has said the 24.7-kilometer line is scheduled for completion in 2034. Taichung Mayor Lu Shiow-yen says the 20 station Blue Line will run from the East District to the Port of Taichung, with future extensions planned to the Mountain Line and Coastal Line areas. The line will intersect the Green Line at City Hall, forming what Lu called a "golden cross" - a project she described (形容) as central Taiwan's most significant infrastructure development over the next decade. Ukraine Claims Russian Sumy Advance Halted Ukrainian forces claim to have stopped Russia’s advance into the northern Sumy region, stabilizing the front line near the border. Ukraine’s top military commander said on Thursday that this success (成功) has prevented Russia from redeploying 50,000 troops, including elite units, to other areas. Russian officials have not commented on the claim. Fighting continues along the 1,000-kilometer front line, with Ukraine relying on drones to counter Russia’s slow but costly advances. In Donetsk, Russia claims to have captured two villages as part of its offensive. Both sides are also launching long-range drone strikes, causing injuries and damage across multiple regions. US Sec of Defense Berates Press as New Details on Iran Bombing Emerge US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth berated the press as Anti-Trump during a briefing on Thursday, but offered no new details on the extent of the damage caused by US strikes on Iran's nuclear facilities. This comes after a classified preliminary assessment by US intelligence was leaked (洩漏) to the media - suggesting the damage may not amount to complete obliteration as the President claims. Toni Waterman has more from Washington. UK Steps Back from NAfrica Energy Project The United Kingdom is stepping back from funding a project to transmit power generated by North Africa’s winds and sun via underwater cables and is pivoting instead to projects seen as less risky. The country’s Energy Security Department said on Thursday it planned to step back from the $33 billion project due to a “high level of inherent risk, related to both delivery and security.” Xlinks said the project would provide an equivalent of 8% of Britain’s current electricity needs, or roughly 7 million homes. British officials plan to focus on other wind and solar projects to meet their goal to generate (產生) all of the country's energy from renewable sources by 2030. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

2025 Han Kuang exercise to combine civilian and war of attrition drills Environment ministry to launch PM0.1 monitoring trials in 2026 US Trump Doubles Down on Iran Nuclear Damage NATO Agrees to Defense Spending Hike Mexico Investigates Possible SpaceX Rocket Contamination -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 153-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 22,341 on turnover of 6-billion N-T. The market rebounded on Tuesday, as it recovered from a recent slump (猛跌) to close above the key 22,000-point mark as investors reacted positively to U-S President Donald Trump's announcement that Israel and Iran had reached a ceasefire. 31 charged over KMT-led recall campaign forged petitions in New Taipei The New Taipei District Prosecutors' Office has indicted 31 people for allegedly forging thousands of signatures in recall campaigns targeting three D-P-P lawmakers. Prosecutors says all of those charged are affiliated (有關聯的) with the K-M-T. According to the prosecutors' office, a total of 2,566 forged recall proposal forms in the initial petition were found during the investigation. All 31 people face charges of document forgery and violations of the Personal Data Protection Act. Prosecutors says an additional 19 people, including volunteers and associates of those indicted, have been granted deferred prosecutions. Taiwan fishing boat captain indicted over dolphin poaching The Pingtung District Prosecutors' Office has indicted the captain of a Taiwan-registered long-distance fishing boat for instructing Indonesian crew members to kill dolphins for use as bait (餌) to catch sharks. The prosecutors' office says it wrapped up its investigation into the case earlier this month and evidence found that the boat's captain and seven foreign crew members violated the Act on Wildlife Conservation. Prosecutors have granted deferred prosecution to the seven Indonesian fishermen. The incident occurred in June of last year, when the vessel was operating in the northwestern Pacific Ocean. The illegal act was documented and reported by Canadian authorities and referred to Ministry of Agriculture for further action. Japan Test Fires Missile Japan has test-fired a missile on Japanese territory for the first time as the country accelerates its military buildup to deter China. The Type 88 surface-to-ship, short-range missile was tested at a firing range on Hokkaido and targeted a boat with no crew about 40 kilometers off the island's southern coast.. Due to space limitations and safety concerns, Japan conducted past missile tests in the United States, a treaty ally, and Australia, a top Japanese defense partner where vast (廣大的) training grounds are available. The military said the test was successful. It plans another through Sunday. Dozens of protesters stood outside a neighboring army camp, saying missile tests only escalates tension in Asia and risks for Japan to be involved in possible conflicts. Tuesday’s first domestic missile test underscores Japan’s push toward a more self-sufficient military and its acquisition of strike-back capabilities. Millions of Americans under extreme heat warnings A heat wave has shattered temperature records in several US cities and tens of millions of Americans remain under extreme heat warnings. Authorities are urging people to take precautions (預防措施) to avoid heat-related illnesses. Ira Spitzer reports That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 295-points this morning from Friday's close, at 21,750 on turnover of 4.4-billion N-T. The market rose on Friday, after crude oil prices have rebounded, but investors remain wary about whether the U-S will launch an attack on Iran within the next two weeks. CSBC refutes submarine prototype hull deformation rumor C-S-B-C is refuting reports that have been appearing on the internet claiming its Narwhal indigenous submarine prototype showed signs of hull deformation during its initial sea trials last week. The shipbuilder says protrusion on the port side of the bow of the Narwhal, houses the submarine's passive ranging sonar system, and was not a deformation as has been alleged by some internet users. According to C-S-B-C, the sonar dome protects the sonar system, and the protrusion (凸起) is due to the installation of high-precision electronic sonar components inside the dome. Reports say the posts on the internet are believed to be part Beijing's campaign to spread military disinformation targeting Taiwan. Debutant Lee Kuang-hsin shatters record to win Cross Penghu Bay Swim And, First-time competitor Lee Guang-hsin slashed 23-minutes off the men's 5,000-meter record to claim victory in the 23rd Cross Penghu Bay Swim's marquee (大牌的) race. Lee led from start to finish, completing the crossing from Da-Guo-Ye Columnar Basalt on Xiyu Island to Guanyin Temple on Penghu's main island in 1-hour, 17-minutes and 51-seconds. Organizers say more than 2,300 took to the water for the two-day multisport festival - which began on Saturday with 600 amateur swimmers braving changing currents and jellyfish to make the 500-meter crossing of Penghu Bay. Syria Suicide Bomber Kills 20 in Church A suicide bomber has killed at least 20 in a Greek Orthodox church in Syria AP correspondent Donna Warder reports Turkey Detains Journalist Critical of Erdogan Turkish state media say authorities have formally arrested a prominent journalist on Sunday for allegedly "threatening" President Recep Tayyip Erdogan online. The detention of Fatih Altayli, whose daily commentaries on YouTube attract hundreds of thousands of viewers, comes amid a widespread crackdown on the opposition. State-run Anadolu Agency said he was questioned after his detention late Saturday over a comment he made following a recent poll that showed more than 70% of the public opposed (反對) a lifetime presidency for Erdogan, who has been in power for more than two decades. Local media says Altayli denied the accusation during police questioning. Spain Reaches NATO Deal on Defense Spending Target Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez says that Spain reached a deal with NATO to be excluded from a 5% of GDP defense spending target. The deal was reached days before the military alliance’s leaders will gather at a summit in The Hague. Sanchez said that Spain would be able to keep its commitments to the 32-nation military alliance by spending 2.1% of GDP on defense needs. In letters exchanged on Sunday between NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte and Sanchez, Spain was granted the exemption (免除，豁免) and the language around the 5% spending target was adjusted (調整) to no longer include all 32 allies. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 43-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 21,961 on turnover of $5.1-billion N-T. The market fell more than 350 points on Thursday as market sentiment was spooked by the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran, and a hint by the U-S Federal Reserve that it's in no hurry to cut interest rates. Sell-offs were seen across the board, led by the bellwether electronics sector, with Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing in focus, which pushed the main board below the 240-day moving average of around 22,280-points by the end of the session. Philippines grants Taiwan visa-free entry starting July Taiwan passport holders will be able to travel to the Philippines visa-free entry starting in July. The announcement was made by the Manila Economic and Cultural Office. According to the office, starting July 1, Taiwan passport holders can enter the Philippines "for tourism purposes without a visa for a non-extendible (不得延長的) and non-convertible period of 14 days." However, the office is stressing that Taiwan passport holders planning to visit the Philippines for more than two weeks or other purposes still need to apply for a visa. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs says it welcomes the decision. The announcement comes after Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung said on June 13 that Taiwan will be extending its visa-waiver program for Philippine passport holders for another year starting August 1. Trump to Decide on Iran Action in 2 Weeks US President Donald Trump says he will decide on whether to take military action in Iran within the next two weeks. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters the US president believes there is a "substantial (可觀的) chance of negotiations with Iran in the near future. Kate Fisher reports from Washington Canada Bank Rockslide Rescue crews, police and paramedics scrambled to a remote Canadian Rocky Mountain region of Banff National Park amid reports that a group of hikers were hit by a rock slide. Royal Canadian Mounted Police say the initial (最初的) report indicated there were multiple hikers and there may be serious injuries and or fatalities. The site is north of Lake Louise on the Icefields Parkway, about 200 kilometers northwest of Calgary. Nigeria Artifacts Returned by Netherlands The Netherlands has returned 119 artifacts looted from Nigeria, including human and animal figures, plaques, royal regalia and a bell. The artifacts, known as the Benin Bronzes and mostly housed in a museum in the city of Leiden, were looted in the late 19th century by British soldiers. In recent years, museums across Europe and North America have moved to address ownership disputes over artifacts looted during the colonial era. Nigeria formally requested the return of hundreds of objects from museums around the world in 2022. The Benin Bronzes were stolen in 1897 when British forces sacked (洗劫，劫掠) the Benin kingdom and forced the monarch at the time, into a six-month exile. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 118-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 22,238 on turnover of 7-billion N-T. The market closed on higher Wednesday as investor interest in the bellwether electronics and financial sectors resumed .. … and the main board reversed an initial downturn, as investors remained upbeat about the local semiconductor sector and continued to increase their holdings, in particular in Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing. Kinmen pork barred from rest of Taiwan amid African swine fever scare The Ministry of Agriculture has banned shipments of pork and pork products from Kinmen from entering any other parts of Taiwan after a pig carcass found on a beach last week tested positive for African swine fever. The ban currently runs until next Monday. The ministry says it implemented the measures after it identified (識別, 確定) the virus found in the dead pig as matching a strain currently spreading in China. The pig carcass was spotted by the Coast Guard Administration last Saturday in the northwestern part of Kinmen's main island. Local animal disease control personnel took samples from the carcass before it was incinerated and officials say the surrounding area has been disinfected. Scandal-hit Vietnam beauty queen dropped as Taiwan tourism ambassador The Tourism Administration has announced that it terminated its contracts with a Vietnamese beauty pageant queen immediately after she was accused of fraud. Nguyen Thuc Thuy Tien won Miss Vietnam in 2018 and Miss Grand International in 2021. She was invited to serve as a tourism ambassador by the administration in 2024 to to help boost interest in Taiwan as a travel destination for Vietnamese people. However, she was accused of promoting a counterfeit (偽造) fiber supplement by Vietnamese authorities in April and was arrested for consumer fraud a month later. Rights Group Reports Israeli Strikes Kill Over 600 in Iran A human rights group says Israeli strikes on Iran have killed at least 639 people and wounded over 1-thousand-300 others. The Washington-based group Human Rights Activists offered the figures, which covers the entirety of Iran. It said Thursday it identified over 260 civilians and 150 security force personnel among the dead. Iran has not been given regular death tolls during the conflict and has minimized (最小化) casualties in the past. It has not updated its figures since Monday. US Donald Trump says he “may” or “may not” strike Iran Donald Trump says he "may" or "may not" instruct the US military to strike Iran, as the situation also exposes (使曝光) divisions within his party and among his supporters. Jagruti Dave has more from Washington. Peru Mummy Discovered Utility workers excavating trenches to expand the network of natural gas pipelines in Peru’s capital have uncovered a pre-Inca mummy approximately 1,000 years old, barely half a meter from the surface. The mummy had gone unnoticed (未被注意到的) despite urban development in a district of Lima where former agricultural and livestock fields have been converted into working-class neighborhoods over the past decades. An archaeologist working on the site says the unearthed mummy was found in a seated position. It was covered by a bundle, and still has dark brown hair. Officials believe the mummy would have belonged to a society of fishermen of the Chancay culture, which flourished between 1,000 and 1,470 AD. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 75-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 22,135 on turnover of 4.3-billion N-T. The market rose on Tuesday as Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing led the broader market higher following a rally among tech stocks on Wall Street overnight. Interest in T-S-M-C resumed after the Philadelphia Semiconductor Index surged by just over 3-per cent overnight and that came after the company's American depositary receipts rose 2.17-per cent. T-S-M-C's gains contributed about 160 points to the Tai-Ex's overall rise and helped the electronics index jump by 1.1-per cent. Taiwan hosts sea drone exhibition Twelve domestic and foreign companies are participating in a sea drone technology exhibition in Yilan. The two-day exhibition is taking place as defense ministry-affiliated institutions are urging the government to include them in national defense procurement (採購) and development programs in order to strengthen the island's deterrence capabilities. The Ministry of National Defense is set to allocate next year's budget for the large-scale procurement of unmanned surface vehicles. According National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology President Li Shi-qiang, the project will require participation from numerous companies - both domestic and foreign. The institute signed a partnership agreement on the sides of the exhibition with the US and German-based company Auterion for drone software battle-tested in Ukraine. Reports say that deal could eventually lead to the technology being used in millions of drones for Taiwan. 2025 Solar Festival on Now The Tourism Administration's Solar Festival is now underway, offering a wide range of summer activities across Taiwan throughout June, July, and August. From the peaks of Yushan to the coast of Dapeng Bay, the festival highlights regional experiences designed for both local and international travelers. To help "visitors" stay cool, enjoy seasonal refreshments (點心和飲料) like iced tea, cold-brew coffee, and traditional shaved ice available at key destinations. Travelers can also take advantage of special transit offers, including Taiwan Sightseeing Bus tours in Pingtung and Hualien. For more details, visit the Tourism Administration website. US Trump Posts Suggest Greater Involvement in IsraelIran Conflict Donald Trump has fired off a series of highly provocative (挑釁的) social media posts which seem to suggest the US is about to get much more involved in the Israel - Iran conflict. The messages came as the President headed into a meeting with his top National Security officials in the White House Situation Room on Tuesday. Toni Waterman has more from Washington. Indonesia Volcano Eruption Mount Lewotobi Laki Laki volcano in south-central Indonesia has erupted, spewing (噴出) towering columns of hot ash. Authorities raised the eruption alert to the highest level and expanded the danger zone to about 8 kilometers from the crater. Indonesia’s Geology Agency said it recorded the volcano unleashing about 10,000 meters of thick grey clouds on Tuesday afternoon. There were no casualties reported. Residents were warned to be vigilant (警戒的) about heavy rainfall triggering lava flows in rivers originating from the volcano. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 122-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 22,172 on turnover of 5.2-billion N-T. The market bucked a regional upturn and lost ground on Monday as the exchange of missile fire between Israel and Iran entered its fourth day. Market watchers say bargain hunters turned active as the main moved closer to the nearest technical support ahead of the 22,000 point mark - which gave some support to the Tai-Ex. However, geopolitical unease largely dictated the direction of the market through much of the session. 4 KMT staff and 1 activist charged for recall vote forgeries in Taipei The Taipei District Prosecutors' Office has indicted five individuals affiliated with the K-M-T for allegedly forging (偽造) thousands of signatures in a campaign to recall two D-P-P lawmakers. Those indicted include include K-M-T Taipei branch chief Huang Lu Chin-ru, Secretary-General Chu Wen-ching and Secretary Yao Fu-wen. According to the prosecutors' office, they fabricated a total of 5,211 signature forms related to the recall of D-P-P lawmakers Wu Pei-yi and Wu Si-yao. The three suspects are in detention. Prosecutors have also indicted Lai Yi-ren, who has been identified as the organizer of the campaign to recall Wu Si-yao, and Chen Kuei-hsun, an executive at the K-M-T's fourth district office in Taipei City. CGA urges public to use ocean safety app after drowning incidents The Coast Guard Administration is urging beachgoers to check real-time conditions on the "Go Ocean" mobile app following a recent string of drowning incidents. The warning comes after a high school student drowned off the coast of Fangliao Township in Pingtung on Sunday. However, that is one of several recent fatal or near-fatal accidents linked to dangerous ocean conditions. The Coast Guard Administration says in each of the cases, the "Go Ocean" app had issued red alerts, warning of unsafe conditions. The app was Developed by the National Academy of Marine Research, and uses color-coded alerts and combines (結合) data from various sources to display wave, wind and current conditions. US UK sign trade deal at G7 U.S. President Donald Trump and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer say they have finalized a trade deal. It will bring into force parts of a pact (協定) agreed between the two countries last month, including reducing tariffs on UK cars. Kate Fisher reports from Washington Louvre Staff Protests The Louvre Museum has failed to open on time Monday, leaving thousands of visitors stuck in long, unmoving lines. A union representative said staff at the world's most-visited museum are protesting working conditions. She said the disruption was caused by a spontaneous movement among front-of-house staff, including gallery attendants, reception, and security workers. A few months ago, President Emmanuel Macron unveiled a sweeping decade-long plan to rescue the Louvre from precisely (就是) the problems now boiling over — water leaks, dangerous temperature swings, outdated infrastructure, and foot traffic far beyond what the museum can handle. Just a day earlier, coordinated anti-tourism protests swept across southern Europe. Thousands rallied in Mallorca, Venice, Lisbon and beyond, denouncing (譴責) an economic model they say displaces locals and erodes city life. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 14 -points this morning from Friday's close, at 22,058 on turnover of 2.2-billion N-T. The market closed in negative territory on Friday, after Wall Street made marginal gains following the release of more data about inflation in America. Influencer Holger Chen denies receiving money on China trip Online celebrity Holger Chen is denying claims that he received money from China to travel there last week. Speaking to reporters after wrapping-up a six-day trip to Shanghai, the gym-entrepreneur-turned-online-influencer, stressed the he paid for the trip to China with his own money. Chen also said that he "never degraded Taiwan and never said Taiwan was not good" during his trip - despite allegations (指控) that he belittled Taiwan by praising China. According to Chen, he also didn't engage any business discussions on the trip, but he hopes to have commercial opportunities in China in the future. Chen arrived in Shanghai last Tuesday, stating he was hoping to act as an "ambassador of peace" and encourage more cross-strait exchanges on his first trip to China. Pope Leo XIV blesses Taiwanese newlyweds and wishes peace for Taiwan Pope Leo XIV has blessed a newlywed Taiwanese couple in person during a public appearance in Rome - where he applauded missionary work in Taiwan and pledging (誓言) to pray for peace in the country. According to a Facebook post by Taiwan's Embassy to the Holy See, the couple met the Pope during the weekly Public Audience, and the Pope smiled warmly and his eyes "lit up" upon hearing they were from Taiwan. The post says the Pope praised the missionary work of Taiwan's Chinese Regional Bishops' Conference and the local Catholic Church, and promised to pray for "no wars" for the nation. Trump says Israel-Iran will come to deal 'soon' and warns Tehran against retaliating against US US President Donald Trump wants Israel to hold off on a plan to assassinate (暗殺) Iran's top leader, as he holds out hope for a negotiated settlement. The AP's Jennifer King reports. France Macron Stops in Greenland French President Emmanuel Macron warned that Greenland is “not to be sold” nor “to be taken” in a key visit to the strategic Arctic territory. Macron says he’s conveying a message of French and European solidarity, as the French leader is on his way to a summit of the Group of Seven leading industrialized nations in Canada that will be also attended by US President Donald Trump. Last week, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth appeared to acknowledge (承認) that the Pentagon has developed plans to take over Greenland and Panama by force if necessary but refused to answer repeated questions during a congressional hearing Thursday. UK MI6 Female Chief From the UK…. MI6 has appointed its first female chief. Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced Sunday that Blaise Metreweli will be the next director of the U.K.’s foreign intelligence agency. She is currently the MI6 director of technology and innovation (創新). Metrewel steps from the shadows into the light as the only MI6 employee whose name is made public. She will take up her post in the fall. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 72-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 22,216 on turnover of $6.7-billion N-T. Kaohsiung Districts Suspend Work and Classes Due to Heavy Rain Parts of Kaohsiung are suspending work and classes, due to heavy rain. The city government announced that school and work in Mao-lin District, as well as parts of Tao-yuan District will be cancelled today for safety. Officials say a now-dissipated tropical depression has resulted in torrential (滂沱) showers in mountainous areas, with risks of rockslides and overflowing rivers. (NS) Israel Claims Tehran Attack Targeted MIlitary and Nuclear Program Officials Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel targeted Iran’s main enrichment facility in Natanz and the country’s ballistic missile program, as well as top nuclear scientists and officials, in an attack today. He said Iran was working on a new plan to destroy Israel after its old plan, failed. Netanyahu said in an address on social media that the attacks will continue “for as many days at it takes to remove this threat.” Iranian state television says the head of Iran𠏋 paramilitary Revolutionary Guard is feared dead. The report offered few other details about what happened to Gen. Hossein Salami of the Guard. The report on air added that one other top Guard officials, as well as two nuclear scientists were also feared dead. State television also reported the attack set the headquarters of Iran𠏋 paramilitary Revolutionary Guard ablaze. Meanwhile U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Israel took “unilateral (單方面) action against Iran” and that Israel advised the U.S. that it believed the strikes were necessary for its self-defense. Rubio also issued a warning to Iran that it should not target U.S. interests or personnel. The attack comes as tensions reached new heights over Tehran’s advancing nuclear program. The International Atomic Energy Agency for the first time in 20 years censured Iran over it not working with its inspectors. Iran immediately announced it would establish a third enrichment site in the country and swap out some centrifuges for more-advanced ones. Both Iran and Israel closed their airspace. Benchmark Brent crude spiked on the attack, rising nearly 5% on the news. NKorea Relaunches Damaged Destroyer North Korea says it has repaired its damaged second destroyer and launched it into the water in the presence of leader Kim Jong Un. North Korea’s Korean Central News Agency said it launched (下水) the destroyer — the second it built this year — off the east coast of the country on Thursday. KCNA cited Kim as saying the country’s two destroyers will play a big role in improving the North Korean navy’s operational capabilities. Kim reiterated previous claims that his naval buildup is a justified response to perceived threats posed by the United States and its allies in Asia. France Doubles Down on Children Social Media Ban The French government is doubling down on plans to ban children from social media. The education minister says "we must protect our young people from overexposure (過度曝露) to screens". Ross Cullen reports. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn