Top World News
Blanche formally rescinds Trump’s $1.8bn ‘anti-weaponization fund’ ahead of nomination hearing
Aug 3, 2026 - World 
Todd Blanche issues formal order terminating measure widely derided as a ‘slush fund’, in move that could clear path for his nomination as attorney generalActing US attorney general Todd Blanche issued a formal order late on Sunday terminating Donald Trump’s $1.8bn “anti-weaponization fund” to compensate his political allies, a move that follows weeks of negotiations with two Republican senators who were blocking his nomination to become attorney general.While Blanche has repeatedly said publicly that the fund was dead, the justice department had resisted formally confirming that in writing. That had drawn concern from lawmakers that it could be revived in some form, especially after Trump expressed continued support for the idea. Continue reading...
One Nation names eight Victorian election candidates as Hanson bars ABC and Guardian from press conferences
Aug 3, 2026 - World 
Former Liberal, ‘anti-woke’ film animator and councillor who says he used to work on Daniel Andrews’ security team among lineup for November’s state pollFollow our Australia news live blog for latest updatesGet our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcastOne Nation has named its first candidates for the upcoming Victorian state election, as the party leader, Pauline Hanson, has vowed to ban the ABC and the Guardian from attending her press conferences during the campaign.Guardian Australia understands reporters from the ABC and the Age were refused entry to Hanson’s press conference on Monday, where she announced seven of the eight candidates who will lead One Nation’s upper house tickets. Continue reading...
New Zealand legislation making English an official language ridiculed as ‘pathetic’
Aug 3, 2026 - World 
Passing of bill gives English same status as Māori and sign language but, with it already spoken by 95% of country, critics call it ‘a pointless exercise’Legislation recognising English as an official language of New Zealand has been passed by parliament, prompting derision from linguists and legal experts and a now-viral broadside from a Māori MP who called it “pathetic”.The English language bill became law on 30 July giving English, which is spoken by 95% of the country, the same official status as te reo Māori (Māori language) and New Zealand sign language. Continue reading...
Number of people missing unknown after ferry fire that killed 5, rescuers say
Aug 3, 2026 - World 
Indonesian rescuers are searching for possible missing passengers after a ferry fire off Java Sunday killed at least five people
Water-dropping aircraft take off to tackle major Greek wildfire
Aug 3, 2026 - World 
Water-dropping planes and helicopters have taken off at first light to help hundreds of firefighters battling a major wildfire west of Athens, Greece
