EZ News

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening  The Tai-Ex opened up 35-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 45,546 on turnover of 4-billion N-T. The market closed lower yesterday, led by the electronics sector amid concerns over AI development after the heads of three U-S AI giants warned of risks and called for a slowdown in development. FM announces plans to open representative's office in Cebu Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung says the Lai administration is preparing to open a representative office (代表處) in Cebu Province in the Philippines. According to Lin, the office will be Taiwan's second in the country after Manila and will serve travelers and businesspeople in the central Philippines, which is a popular tourism destination (旅遊目的地). The statement comes after Nikkei Asia reported on the new office earlier this week. Lin has not said when the Cebu office will open. CDC warns that flu cases are expected to peak around Mid-Autumn Festival The Centers for Disease Control says the number of flu cases continued to rise last week. According to the C-D-C, a total of 136,796 outpatient (門診病患；門診的) and emergency visits for flu-like symptoms were recorded from September 6 through 12 and that's a 16.5-per cent increase from the previous week. The C-D-C's Epidemic Intelligence Center says the current flu epidemic is now expected to peak (達到高峰) around the Mid-Autumn Festival holiday, when outpatient and emergency visits will likely reach between 150,000 and 160,000. Influenza A viruses remain dominant in the community, with the A-H-1-N-1 subtype accounting for 82.2-per cent of all detected cases. The first phase of the government's free flu vaccination program begins on October 1. Nikkei: China applies sweeping new entry and exit rules tied to national security New entry and exit rules have taken effect in China, as Beijing links entry rules to national security in legal terms. Nikkei Asia reports that under the new rules, Chinese citizens can be banned from leaving the country for a minimum of 6 months to an indefinite (無限期的；期限不定的) period. Foreign nationals can also be barred from entering the country if they submit inaccurate information or make false statements in visa applications. The provisions (條款；規定) are particularly concerning to company founders and executives following a series of high-profile cases of individuals unable to leave. Beijing previously banned a foreign bank employee and US government worker from leaving China and also reportedly imposed exit restrictions on two founders of an AI startup. Legal experts say the change highlights China's increasing use of explicit legal language to bar people from leaving, as opposed to holding people who don't know what they're being held for. Nvidia's Huang and Anthropic's Amodei clash over AI safety as Trump calls fears a 'hoax' Salesforce has unveiled (發布；揭曉) a new artificial intelligence model called Koa at the opening of its annual Dreamforce conference in San Francisco, where the debate over the safety of rapidly advancing AI technology is dominating (主導；佔據主要地位) discussion among more than 43,000 attendees. Anthropic and OpenAI have both called for the industry to slow down, while Nvidia chief executive Jensen Huang and US President Donald Trump have pushed back against those concerns. Some critics, however, say the safety argument may serve a commercial purpose. Ira Spitzer reports from San Francisco. … That was Ira Spitzer reporting.  That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

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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 46,010 on turnover of 8.2-billion N-T. The market moved sharply lower on Friday, led by the electronics sector, amid growing fears over an interest rate hike by the U-S Federal Reserve and a surge in international crude oil prices. Earthquakes rattle east coast area No damage or injuries are being reported following this morning's earthquakes that rattled Hualien. The first of the quakes had a magnitude 4.7 and struck at 3:21 and was centered some 54-kilometers south southwest of Hualien County Hall at a depth of 17-kilometers. It was felt stongest in Hualien's Wanrong Township and Nantou's Yushan area - where it registered a magnitude 4 on the Central Weather Administration's intensity scale. The quake registered a 3 on the intensity scale in other parts of Hualien. The second quake struck at 6:44 and was centered some 43-kilometers east southeast of Taitung County Hall at a depth of 10-kilometers. It was stongest in Taitung's Donghe Township and on Green Island - where it registered a magnitude 4 on the Central Weather Administration's intensity scale. That quake also registered a magnitude 3 on the scale in other parts of Taitung, as well as in parts of Hualien. Dwight Howard headlines New Taipei Kings charity event Naismith Basketball Hall of Famer Dwight Howard returned to Taiwan this past weekend to attend a charity event organized by the New Taipei Kings and The Asian Tournament. Speaking with reporters at the opening of the event at Xinzhuang Gymnasium in New Taipei, Howard said he was "always glad" to return to Taiwan and he missed Taiwan's food. The Kings' says part of the proceeds from the event are being donated to PACK Taiwan, an animal welfare (動物福利) organization. Howard became one of Taiwan's most prominent foreign athletes after joining the Taoyuan Leopards in the now-defunct T1 League for the 2022-2023 season, following an 18-season N-B-A career. NKorea LiveFire Drills include Ballistic Missiles North Korea says it has conducted a joint live-fire drill involving missiles, artillery and drones that it claimed demonstrated “the huge destructive power of concentrated fire.” The official Korean Central News Agency said Monday that Saturday’s drill was meant to get familiar with the procedure for the operation of the integrated firepower control system. South Korea’s military earlier said it detected short-range ballistic missile launches from North Korea’s eastern coastal Wonsan area on Saturday morning. The Joint Chiefs of Staff said several missiles each flew about 250 kilometers toward North Korea’s eastern waters. Experts say the flight distances signal the weapons are designed to (用來) strike targets in South Korea. MICROSOFT'S NADELLA BACKS DELIBERATE AI SLOWDOWN WITH CAVEATS AS WASHINGTON DEBATES RESPONSE Microsoft chief executive Satya Nadella has backed calls for a more deliberate pace of artificial intelligence development, though he says companies must retain full control over their proprietary knowledge and that any safety regime must protect enterprise privacy. Nadella's statement on Sunday afternoon came a day after the heads of Anthropic, OpenAI and Elon Musk's xAI jointly called for the industry to slow down the building of more powerful models — a call US President Donald Trump dismissed from Ireland as exaggerated (誇張的). White House AI adviser David Sacks has told the companies to stop waiting for government permission and to regulate themselves. Kate Fisher reports from Washington. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _. －－－－以下為 SoundOn 動態廣告－－－－ 你的職涯卡關了嗎? 高屏澎東分署青年職涯發展中心YS陪你跨出關鍵下一步！ 專為 15-29 歲青年提供「完全免費」的職涯服務： 職涯探索：職涯諮詢、適性測驗 認識職場：職人講座、職場參訪 職場續航：實戰技能、企業主管與心理師指引 點我報名活動：https://sofm.pse.is/9lplv9 以上廣告由勞動部勞動力發展署高屏澎東分署提供 -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened opened down 289-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 46,651 on turnover of 10.9-billion N-T. Two-story building damaged by adjacent construction work in Taipei A two-story building in Taipei has been severely damaged after an adjacent (鄰近的) construction work caused its ground floor to crack and leak yellowish muddy water. No injuries were reported. The building are located in an alley off Minquan East Road, near Xingtian Temple M-R-T Station. Officials say an initial investigation suggests that a breach in the underground diaphragm wall during foundation excavation and retaining operations caused water and sand leakage. The Taipei City Government says construction work at the site has been suspended due to failure to maintain the safety of adjacent public facilities and buildings, and work will not resume until an improvement plan has been submitted and approved. The contractor and the supervisor have each been fined 90-thousand N-T. Citrus taiwanica becomes Taiwan's first patent-protected Indigenous crop Citrus taiwanica has received patent protection covering products derived from the plant and been licensed to a Saisiyat cooperative in Miaoli County. Citrus taiwanica is a citrus species traditionally used by the Indigenous Saisiyat people. According to the Forestry and Nature Conservation Agency, the patent covers applications of the plant and products derived from (源自) it, with authorization from the Saisiyat tribe required for their use. The case marks the first time a traditional Indigenous crop and products derived from it have received patent protection. The agency says the traditional knowledge underlying the use of the citrus came from the Saisiyat tribe and that technologies and products developed through modern research based on that knowledge should benefit its original holders. Authorities are insisting that license is not intended to monopolize the plant, but aimed at protecting and preserving the traditional knowledge of the Saisiyat people. Yemen Houthis Take Control of Mokha The Iran-backed Houthi rebel group has taken control of Yemen's strategic Red Sea port city of Mokha. Houthi and Yemeni officials confirmed the takeover. This move could bring them closer to controlling a critical waterway to the Red Sea. Meanwhile, Yemeni government forces launched airstrikes targeting Houthi reinforcements west of Taiz. Clashes also continued along Yemen’s western coast. Mokha had been held by forces aligned with Yemen’s internationally recognized government. The Houthis have been fighting a civil war with the government since 2014. The fighting now threatens a fragile (脆弱的) truce that took effect in 2022. TRUMP'S $5,000 DIVIDEND PLEDGE FACES LEGAL DOUBTS AND BOND MARKET JITTERS AS CRITICS CALL IT A BRIBE US President Donald Trump's pledge to give every American adult five thousand dollars if Republicans hold Congress in the midterm elections could cost more than one-point-two trillion dollars, with no clear plan to pay for it. Legal experts have questioned whether the president even has the authority to authorise (授權) such a payment, since the US Constitution requires Congress to approve government spending. Nick Harper, our reporter in Washington, says the president has a track record of floating (提出想法、試探性地提出) similar dividend proposals that have never been delivered. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _. －－－－以下為 SoundOn 動態廣告－－－－ 【高雄出發 日本滑雪團限時優惠】 9/30前報名付訂，每人折$5,000 11/30前報名付訂，每人折$3,000 凡參加過滑雪團系列商品，老朋友獨享優惠每人再折$1,000 自備雪具者另享減價優惠 https://sofm.pse.is/9lgn85 -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening  The Tai-Ex opened down 52-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 47,130 on turnover of 8-billion N-T. The market closed slightly higher on Wednesday despite giving up early gains, as investors await the release of the latest data on U-S consumer prices (消費者物價) and inflation. Investor momentum (動能) stalled as profit-taking set in when the Tai-Ex moved closer to the all-time intraday high of 48,218 points. AIT chief on economic impact of Taiwan Strait conflict  American Institute in Taiwan Director Raymond Greene says a conflict across the Taiwan Strait could inflict (造成傷害／損失) an economic cost greater than that of World War II. Greene made the remarks in a keynote address at the 2026 Taipei Security Dialogue. The event was organized by the government funded Institute for National Defense and Security Research think tank (智庫). According to Greene, Taiwan doesn't need to demonstrate that it can win a war outright in order to deter a conflict, but it must convince a potential adversary that landing a large ground force would be extremely difficult. CDC reports 30 mpox cases in 2026 and imported infections double The Centers for Disease Control says 30 confirmed mpox cases have been reported so far this year. According to the C-D-C, imported cases have more than doubled from last year and most cases are linked to unprotected sexual contact (無防護性接觸). The statement comes as the C-D-C announced two new mpox infections - one of which was locally acquired and the other imported. Health authorities say both cases involved unvaccinated men who had engaged in unprotected sexual activity. Data shows that as of September 7, the C-D-C had confirmed 20 domestic and 10 imported mpox cases so far this year. All of the patients were men aged between 20 and 50. IAEA refers Iran to UN security council for first time in 20 years as war enters 8th month The International Atomic Energy Agency's Board of Governors has voted to refer Iran to the United Nations Security Council for breaching its nuclear non-proliferation (核不擴散) obligations — the first such referral in twenty years. The vote came as US President Donald Trump said the war with Iran would end immediately after November's midterm elections, saying Tehran cannot sustain (維持) the conflict much longer — though the White House says it is not seeking to resume negotiations. The president's comments come amid rising energy costs, with oil climbing above a hundred dollars a barrel during the seven-month conflict. Jagruti Dave, our reporter in Washington, says the IAEA resolution adds diplomatic pressure on Tehran but is widely seen as unlikely to produce new sanctions because of the vetoes held by Russia and China on the Security Council. Kenya Nurses Strike Ends wtih Return-to-Work Agreement A 43-day nurses’ strike in Kenya that paralyzed (使癱瘓／使陷入停擺) public hospitals has ended after the government and the nurses’ union signed a return-to-work agreement. The nurses marched Tuesday to the Council of Governors’ office, a body established to bring together Kenya’s 47 county governments. On Wednesday, union representatives signed the agreement at the same office.  The union said nurses would return to hospitals within 24 hours.  They say the return-to-work agreement provided 45 days for negotiations to conclude on the implementation (實施／執行) of the 2017 agreement. 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 36-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 47,142 on turnover of 8.5-billion N-T. The market ended lower on Tuesday, largely due to a lack of guidance from Wall Street, as U-S indices were closed on Monday for a holiday. The index initially posted solid gains, but soon turned lower, as investors opted to stay on the sidelines (保持觀望). However, market heavyweight Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing remained resilient (表現穩健的；有韌性的) and closed the day in positive territory, to stop the broader market from falling further. Man arrested for alleged hit-and-run killing of nurse Police in Taichung have arrested a man wanted in connection with a hit-and-run (肇事逃逸) incident that resulted in the death of a nurse. The case has been referred to prosecutors and the man is facing charges of homicide (殺人罪；致人死亡) and hit-and-run. The incident occured early Tuesday morning and closed circuit television footage has been aired on local TV news channels. The car can been seen hitting the nurse, making a U-turn, and then hitting her again, before leaving the scene. Emergency services were called to the scene immediately following the incident and the nurse was taken to a hospital, but efforts to resuscitate (急救使恢復生命跡象；施行復甦術) her were unsuccessful. Lai highlights expanded support for Taiwan athletes at Asian Games President Lai Ching-te is touting (宣揚；強調) his administration's increased support for Taiwan's athletes at the 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games -- saying the Ministry of Sports is "making every effort" to support them. Speaking at a flag-presentation ceremony at the Taiwan Sports Training Center in Kaohsiung, Lai touted highlighted expanded medical and rehabilitation services and increased support staffing. Lai said those increases are evidence (證據；證明) of the sports ministry's effort to provide the best possible support for Taiwan's athletes. Taiwan is sending 482 athletes to compete in 34 sports at the Games. The 2026 Asian Games will be held from September 19 to October 4. US FORCES DESTROY FIVE IRANIAN OIL TANKERS AS TEHRAN RETALIATES WITH MISSILE STRIKE ON JORDAN BASE The United States Central Command has confirmed American forces destroyed five Iranian crude oil tankers linked to Iran's Revolutionary Guard, striking targets near Kharg Island and the port city of Jask. The strikes came in retaliation (作為報復) after Iranian forces twice targeted a US Navy warship with ballistic missiles over the past two days — attacks the Pentagon says the warship successfully evaded (躲避；避開). Iran's Revolutionary Guard has responded by launching a ballistic missile attack on the Al-Azraq air base in Jordan, saying it struck hangars housing American fighter jets. Jagruti Dave reports from Washington. UK Flights Disrupted After Traffic Control System Malfunction A technical issue in the U.K. air traffic control system has led to the cancellation of more than 1,000 flights. That's according to flight-tracing website, Flightradar24.  Britain's National Air Traffic Services said there was a problem in its system on Tuesday that affected departing flights (出發航班). The problem was fixed but delays were expected to continue.  Fifteen airports across the U.K., including Heathrow, Gatwick and Stansted, reported disruptions (中斷；擾亂；運作受阻) and advised passengers to check their flight status with their airline. The cause of the technical problem remains unclear. 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 yesterday's close, at 47,335 on turnover of 10.9-billion N-T. The market rose by over 700 points on Monday to close at its second-highest ever record as buying focused on large-cap semiconductor stocks after U-S tech companies rallied at the end of last week. Arrest warrant issued for missing senior aide indicted in lawmaker's corruption case The Taipei District Court has issued an arrest warrant for Kao Chin Su-mei's former legislative office director after he jumped bail. According to the court, police responded late Sunday after an electronic wrist monitor belonging to Chang Chun-chieh issued a low-battery alert. Police failed to locate Chang, but recovered his wrist monitor, which had been "broken and thrown away." Chang was indicted along with Kao Chin and 22 other people in early June on charges of corruption and fraud-related charges related to the embezzlement of public funds and the importation (進口) of unapproved COVID-19 test kits from China. He was released on 10-million N-T bail in June on health grounds. MOHW on this year's flu shots The Ministry of Health says it could purchase more enhanced flu vaccines if those being introduced into the government's free vaccination program this year prove to be effective. The statement comes after the ministry announced it had purchased 200,000 doses of enhanced flu vaccines - with residents of long-term care facilities being given priority. Health officials says if funding is available, it plans to purchases to 600,000 doses of the enhanced (增強的、提高的) vaccines next year. The first phase of the government's free flu vaccination program begins on October 1 and the Centers for Disease Control has said it purchased just over 7-million doses for the publicly funded program this year. Indonesia Flights Resume After Volcano Eruption Flights to and from Indonesia’s capital of Jakarta have resumed after ash from a volcanic eruption forced a two-day closure that halted nearly 3,000 flights. The transportation minister said Soekarno-Hatta International Airport and Halim Perdanakusuma Airport serving Jakarta reopened early today. Three smaller airports also reopened just after midnight, but three others remain closed until 10 a.m. The continuous eruption of Anak Krakatau with lava fountains and loud booms (轟，隆隆聲) ended Sunday but the volcanic island remained active Tuesday morning. The airport closures Sunday and Monday affected about 341-thousand passengers. CANADA'S RETALIATORY TARIFFS** TAKE EFFECT AS TRUMP THREATENS TO BAN** BOMBARDIER SALES IN THE US Canada has imposed retaliatory tariffs on more than twenty-seven billion dollars' worth of American goods, with levies of up to fifty per cent taking effect today. The move comes after US President Donald Trump threatened on Monday to ban the Canadian aircraft manufacturer Bombardier from selling planes in the United States, writing on Truth Social that the company must build in America or lose access to the market. Quebec's premier has vowed defiance, saying her province will not allow anyone to dictate (決定，規定) where Canadian companies must produce. Jagruti Dave reports from Washington. Bayeaux Tapestry Goes on Display at British Museum The Bayeux Tapestry goes on display at the British Museum this week, marking its return to British soil for the first time since the 11th century. Tickets are sold out for months, and the museum expects 1 million visitors before the exhibition ends in July. The tapestry depicts the Norman conquest of England in 1066, a pivotal moment in European history. The tapestry's vivid scenes offer insights (見解) into 11th-century life and have sparked debates among historians. Its loan comes after years of diplomacy and is being hailed as a symbol of Franco-British friendship That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _. －－－－以下為 SoundOn 動態廣告－－－－ 【高雄出發 日本滑雪團限時優惠】 9/30前報名付訂，每人折$5,000 11/30前報名付訂，每人折$3,000 凡參加過滑雪團系列商品，老朋友獨享優惠每人再折$1,000 自備雪具者另享減價優惠 https://sofm.pse.is/9lpxdq -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 172-points this morning from Friday's close, at 46,724 on turnover of 14.1-billion N-T. The market gained ground Friday following two days of volatility, as investors reacted to a rise on Wall Street overnight, as big tech companies rallied. Artists welcome return of 'Taiwan Pavilion' name as Gwangju Biennale opens Taiwan artists and curators are welcoming the opening of the Gwangju Biennale's Pavilion Project's "Taiwan Pavilion." It follows a naming controversy that led to China's withdrawal from the event. The foundation had initially listed the pavilion as being part of the National Taiwan Museum of Fine Arts in promotional materials. However, it was agreed to allow it to use the name "Taiwan Pavilion" on August 26 following accusations of political censorship (政治審查) from artists and the Lai administration. China's curatorial team announced its withdrawal from the Pavilion Project last week, citing the participation of Taiwan. The Gwangju Biennale runs from now through Nov. 15. Taiwan tops foreign arrivals to Busan as flights surge South Korea's Yonhap News Agency is reporting that Taiwan has become the largest source of foreign visitors to Busan, following a sharp increase in direct flights. According to Yonhap, data shows a total of 2,927,674 foreign tourists visited Busan from January to July, 605,000 of whom were from Taiwan. Citing aviation statistics released by the Korea Airports Corporation, Yonhap says 6,609 flights operated between Busan and Taiwan in the first seven months of this year. That figure matched the total for all of 2024 and equivalent to 82.9-per cent of the flights recorded in all of 2025. NKorea Kim Commissions Second Naval Destroyer North Korea says leader Kim Jong Un has commissioned his second naval destroyer and called for building a more reliable nuclear deterrent. The report today came as the U.S., South Korea and Japan were to begin a trilateral military exercise that he views as a security threat. State media photos showed Kim toured the Kang Kon warship with his teenage daughter, who South Korea's spy service views as his likely heir. The ship and the Choe Hyon, commissioned (正式委托) in June, are both 5,000-ton destroyers equipped with nuclear-capable missiles, making them North Korea's most advanced warships. The development comes as North Korea is dialing up pressure on the U.S. after rebuffing President Donald Trump's decision to scale back a major military drill with South Korea in a conciliatory step toward Kim. US ENVOYS WITKOFF AND KUSHNER HOLD TALKS IN KYIV AFTER KREMLIN MEETING AS BOTH SIDES PAUSE STRIKES ON CAPITALS U.S. envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner say they have held encouraging talks in Kyiv. The trip on Sunday was their first official visit to Ukraine with European partners joining a third round of the discussions. The trip follows the American envoys' meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow on Saturday that produced no announced breakthroughs. Both Moscow and Kyiv have agreed to a three-day pause on strikes against each other's capitals while the diplomatic shuttle continues, though previous (先前的) attempts at a peace plan have foundered over security guarantees for Ukraine and territorial demands from Russia. Reporter Jagruti Dave in Washington says the limited ceasefire covering the two capitals has not stopped the fighting elsewhere, with Russia continuing to strike other Ukrainian cities and Ukraine hitting a Russian oil refinery. 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 134-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 45,991 on turnover of 8.9-billion N-T. Record Kaohsiung rainfall causes NT$77 million in agricultural losses Kaohsiung officials say, record rainfall in the city has caused more than 77 million NT in agricultural losses. The city's Agricultural Bureau says that wax apple growers were hardest hit, losing around 80 hectares of crops worth over 18 million. Guava growers were the second worst affected, followed by papaya farmers. Kaohsiung received a cumulative (累計) 1712 milimeters of rainfall in August… surpassing the previous record for August rainfall, set in 1931, and was four times the month average. Tang Prize** exhibition opens in Taipei** The 2026 Tang Prize Exhibition opened yesterday at Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall. The exhibition features the optical tool used by Sustainable Development laureate Susan Solomon nearly 40 years ago. The tool measured wavelengths of moonlight and scattered sunlight, helping prove that chlorofluorocarbons were the primary cause of the expanding ozone hole. Six 2026 laureates are scheduled to visit Taiwan later this month for the award ceremony, public lectures, and exchanges with students. The exhibition will run for two months with free admission (入場). IRAN CLAIMS FRESH OVERNIGHT STRIKES ON US BASES IN KUWAIT AND UAE AS KUWAIT CONDEMNS 'BLATANT AGGRESSION' Iran's military says it launched fresh overnight attacks on American bases in Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates, with Kuwaiti authorities condemning what they called blatant (明目張膽的) Iranian aggression. The strikes are the latest in a series of Iranian retaliatory actions against US forces across the region, with the Pentagon's casualty database now listing 767 American troops wounded in the six-month-old war. The White House has been trying to reshape the narrative around the conflict, with Vice President JD Vance telling reporters the initial military operation went exactly as US President Donald Trump had planned. Nick Harper, our reporter in Washington, saysVance pointed to what he described as behind-the-scenes cooperation from Beijing in pressuring Tehran economically. UN: Foreign Networks Fueling Sudan War The United Nations reports foreign networks are fueling Sudan's brutal war between the army and the Rapid Support Forces since 2023. The conflict has killed at least 59,000 people and displaced 13 million. The U.N. found groups from the UAE, Colombia, and Chad have facilitated money and weapon shipments, including drones, into Sudan. Investigators urge the U.N. Security Council to extend (延長) its arms embargo on Sudan. They documented drone attacks on civilians that may be war crimes. The U.S. seeks new sanctions to pressure the warring parties into negotiations. Brazil Approves Bill Regulating Critical Mineral Exploration Brazil’s Senate has approved a bill to regulate the exploration of critical minerals, including rare earths, marking a step toward exploiting its vast reserves. The bill approved Thursday now awaits the president's signature. It establishes a legal framework and offers tax incentives for domestic processing. Brazil holds the world’s second-largest reserves of rare earth elements, used in products like smartphones and electric vehicles. While China dominates the global supply chain, Brazil aims to position itself as an alternative (替代方案). The bill also creates a fund to support mining projects and encourages mineral processing within the country. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _. －－－－以下為 SoundOn 動態廣告－－－－ 【高雄出發 日本滑雪團限時優惠】 9/30前報名付訂，每人折$5,000 11/30前報名付訂，每人折$3,000 凡參加過滑雪團系列商品，老朋友獨享優惠每人再折$1,000 自備雪具者另享減價優惠 https://sofm.pse.is/9kzlzw -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening  The Tai-Ex opened 161-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 46,325 on turnover of $10-billion N-T. Shares in Taiwan fell sharply Wednesday as a spike (急遽上升) in international crude oil prices amid renewed United States attacks on Iran heightened fears of inflationary pressures. The bellwether electronics index fell 2.06 percent after contract chipmaker TSMC shed 2.25 percent, and with the tech sector facing a sell-off, buying rotated to select old economy stocks as safe havens (避險標的). The financial sector also outperformed the broader market, rising 0.45 percent, as analysts say many stocks have been undervalued, encouraging bargain hunters to buy. Civil groups calls for relase of HK activist  Civil groups are calling for the release of Hong Kong activist Joshua Wong after he pleaded guilty (認罪) to a national security charge with a potential life sentence. Representatives from groups including Amnesty International Taiwan and the Taiwan Hong Kong Association called for Wong's release and for charges against him to be dropped. They also urged an end to what they called the use of national security laws to suppress (壓制／打壓) peaceful advocacy and freedom of expression (言論自由). They also called on Taiwan's government to publicly speak out over Wong's case. The 29 year old is already serving a 4 year 8 month prison sentence in a separate national security case, which he had been expected to complete early next year. Congo Ebola Outbreak Kills Over 3000 Congo’s Ebola outbreak (疫情爆發) has killed more than 3,000 people out of more than 6,100 confirmed cases. That's according to the latest government statistics from Wednesday.  Numbers from Congo's Ministry of Health show that the outbreak has recorded 6,186 confirmed cases including 3,007 deaths since it was declared in mid-May. It remains the fastest-growing outbreak of the disease ever.  The disease has continued to spread rapidly for several reasons.  They included conflict in the eastern region of the country where the outbreak is concentrated (集中於). The resumption of school in the middle of the outbreak has also raised concerns about transmission in classrooms. Top US doctors offer updated flu and COVID vaccine recommendations, aiming to ease confusion Top US doctors offer updated flu and COVID vaccine recommendations, aiming to ease confusion AP correspondent Ed Donahue reports on new vaccination (疫苗接種) recommendations. Macron and King Charles Visit Bayeux Tapestry French President Emmanuel Macron and Britain's King Charles III have visited the Bayeux Tapestry at the British Museum. They hailed the 1,000-year-old artwork as a symbol of the intertwined (緊密交織的) histories of France and Britain. The tapestry, depicting (描繪) the 1066 Norman conquest of England, is on loan from France for a 10-month exhibition. This marks the first time it has been in Britain since the 11th century.  The visit underscores efforts to strengthen ties between the two nations, especially following Brexit. British Prime Minister Andy Burnham and Macron are due to hold talks today. 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. THSRC Apologizes for Signal Failure Causing Delays A signal failure near Taipei Station caused train delays across the Taiwan High Speed Rail network last night. High speed rail officials reported that a turnout mechanism malfunctioned at the northern end of Taipei Station at 8:42 p.m. Maintenance crews were deployed immediately, and normal train operations were restored by 9:36 p.m. Taiwan High Speed Rail Corp. apologized for the travel disruptions (中斷 / 擾亂), and confirmed that passengers delayed between 30 and 60 minutes qualify for a 50% ticket refund. Travelers affected by the service delay have up to one year to claim their refund at any high-speed rail station. (NS) CWA Rain Advisories for South and East The Central Weather Administration issued heavy rain advisories for Kaohsiung, Pingtung, and Taitung on Wednesday due to a persistent low-pressure system. The CWA warns that strong southwest winds will drive intense convective cloud systems across Taiwan through Sept. 4-th, bringing localized downpours, lightning, and strong gusts. Forecasters say two tropical storms, Saudel and Krovanh, are currently tracking within the broader low-pressure system but are not expected to directly impact Taiwan. But they say heavy accumulated rainfall over consecutive (連續的) days increases the risk of landslides and rockfalls in mountainous regions, alongside localized flooding in low-lying areas. The CWA says conditions are expected to improve gradually starting Sept. 5 as atmospheric moisture shifts south away from Taiwan. (NS) US STRIKES IRGC TARGETS IN IRAN AS TEHRAN RETALIATES AGAINST AMERICAN FORCES IN JORDAN AND UAE The United States has launched a fresh wave of strikes against Iran's Revolutionary Guard, targeting air defence sites, radar systems and maritime assets near the Strait of Hormuz. Iran has struck back, with its Revolutionary Guard saying it targeted American forces in Jordan and the United Arab Emirates — though authorities in both countries say all the Iranian weapons were intercepted (攔截) or fell without causing damage. US President Donald Trump has warned Tehran that any further retaliation will be met with force at what he called a much harder and higher level. Jagruti Dave reports from Washington. Canada PM Pushes Back Against Trump Admin Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney says the Trump administration needs to “stop trying to be tough.” He was pushing back against a fresh wave of attacks from Washington. Carney says Tuesday that U.S.-Canada trade talks could resume if Washington became serious about negotiations. But he also accused the United States of pursuing terms that could leave Canadian industries “gradually wound down (逐步縮減) in Canada and wiped out." Carney commented after a new barrage of attacks from Washington since trade talks collapsed, including Trump’s move to rename Lake Ontario “Lake America” and his social media posts taunting Canada and U.S. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth’s social media post mocking female Canadian cadets. China Xi Visiting Egypt China’s President Xi Jinping visits Egypt this week for the first time in a decade. Xi arrived Tuesday evening lcoal time at the Cairo airport, which was adorned with Chinese and Egyptian flags. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi and military guards greeted him on the tarmac (停機坪／跑道) with a red-carpet ceremony. The leaders are scheduled to hold talks today, and Xi plans to visit the Grand Egyptian Museum, near the pyramids of Giza. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _. －－－－以下為 SoundOn 動態廣告－－－－ 【日本／韓國滑雪團限時優惠】 9/30前報名付訂，日本團每人折$5,000 11/30前報名付訂，日本團每人折$3,000、韓國團每人折$1,500 凡參加過滑雪團系列商品，老朋友獨享優惠每人再折$1,000 自備雪具者另享減價優惠 https://sofm.pse.is/9kzm26 -- Kurt Wu X 中信 X 米米立 X Bonny&Read 天天登入抽聯名活動 📍活動路徑：中信銀行APP>右下角更多>數位點任務牆>【天天登入抽】前往活動頁 👉立即抽獎> https://sofm.pse.is/9m9e29 -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 49-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 46,177 on turnover of 10-billion N-T. Shares in Taiwan ended lower Monday despite a late rally as bargain hunting emerged ahead of an increase in the local market's weighting under the latest MSCI regular index review. The market came under pressure initially after U.S. stocks fell Friday, following hawkish remarks by Federal Reserve Chairman Kevin Warsh, and the early downturn also reflected a spike in crude oil prices following renewed military strikes in the Middle East. Taiwan Day to showcase Taiwanese culture in Poland The National Cultural Association of Taiwan is holding a two-day "Taiwan Day" cultural event in Poland later this month… featuring Taiwanese contemporary dance and folk arts (民間藝術), plus a market showcasing Taiwanese food and culture. A social media post said that performances at the event will "transform the Polish streets into a Taiwan temple front." The event on September 11th and 12th will see stalls showcasing Taiwanese foods and goods, including dumplings, which are described as the Taiwanese counterpart to Polish pierogi. At a promotional press event in Taipei, Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim, who also serves as NCAT vice president, said the cultural tour is aimed at inspiring Europeans to visit Taiwan and experience the country. TRUMP HINTS AT FURTHER MILITARY ACTION AGAINST IRAN DESPITE SHIFT TO SANCTIONS STRATEGY US President Donald Trump has warned that the door remains open to further military strikes on Iran, delivering a blunt assessment of Tehran's weakened state while speaking to reporters at the White House. The comments came as the Washington Post reported that Iran's economy is feeling new pain from the latest sanctions campaign, though analysts doubt the measures will bring Tehran to the negotiating table. Iran has rejected (拒絕) the sanctions, with its economy minister saying the new measures will fail. Mitch Mccann in New York says a social media post by US President Donald Trump showing an AI-generated image of bombs hitting Iran's main oil export facility has raised concerns about what the White House may be planning. Congo Ebola Tops 6Thousand Cases Congo’s authorities report that the fastest-growing Ebola outbreak in history has topped 6,000 cases with 2,911 deaths. More than 1,360 people have recovered from the virus which authorities on Monday called an “encouraging” development. The outbreak in eastern Congo is spreading under extremely (極為) difficult conditions. Insecurity, displacement, a health workers’ strike and intense population movements fuel the crisis. The virus spread into two new health zones in the region last week. The World Health Organization says it remains out of control and is on track to surpass the 2014-2016 West Africa Ebola outbreak which is the deadliest on record. Indonesia Mt Sinabung Erupts Mount Sinabung in Indonesia has erupted, spewing black ash and smoke into the sky over Sumatra island. Gray ash covered several villages after Monday's eruption, and authorities distributed (分發) masks to residents to protect themselves. People were advised to refrain from activities in nearby villages in Karo district in North Sumatra province and areas within 6 kilometers of the summit. No casualties, evacuations or disruptions to flights were reported. I ndonesia’s Geological Agency raised the alert to the second-highest level for volcanic activity and expanded the safe zone around the mountain. Sinabung has had increased volcanic activity recently, and the agency's chief said a larger eruption (噴發) could occur. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _. －－－－以下為 SoundOn 動態廣告－－－－ Kurt Wu X 中信 X 米米立 X Bonny&Read 天天登入抽聯名活動 📍活動路徑：中信銀行APP>右下角更多>數位點任務牆>【天天登入抽】前往活動頁 👉立即抽獎> https://sofm.pse.is/9lk52t -- 準備賣房嗎？ 即日起至12月31日， 把房屋專任委託給台南住商不動產，即可參加「好友五吉」抽獎活動，賣房抽五機~有機會抽中最新 iPhone 18！ 錦上添花, 好運大獎拿不完! 詳情請洽台南住商任一加盟店。 https://sofm.pse.is/9krz5g -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

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Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 96-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 46,070 on turnover of 12.5-billion N-T. Government preparing search and rescue team after Nepal‑Tibet flood The government says its has prepared Taiwan's national search and rescue team to travel to Nepal following the deadly flash floods near the Nepal‑China border earlier this week. According to the National Fire Agency, it has ordered the national special search and rescue team and rotating (輪流) units from Tainan, Hsinchu City and Chiayi County to prepare for departure. Fire Agency Director‑General Hsiao Huang‑chang says although Taiwan has yet to receive a request for help, the national special rescue and research team will respond in coordination with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to any such requests from affected countries. And the foreign ministry says there have been no reports of any Taiwan nationals being trapped or affected by the disaster. Russia Launches Attacks on Ukraine with Drones and Missiles Russia has launched a major attack on Ukraine that targeted nine cities with missiles and drones. The assault began Wednesday night and continued into Thursday. The strikes hit areas such as the capital Kyiv and caused civilian casualties. Ukrainian officials say that Russia builds up missile stocks to exhaust (用完，耗盡) air defenses. Ukraine has targeted Russian sites including online retailers in response. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy emphasized the need for more air defense support from the United States and Europe. Zelenskyy is due to visit Moldova which reported drones breaching its airspace. The ongoing conflict has raised concerns among Russia's neighbors about a potential wider conflict. TRUMP SIGNS EXECUTIVE ORDER RENAMING LAKE ONTARIO 'LAKE AMERICA' AS CANADA REJECTS THE MOVE US President Donald Trump has signed an executive order renaming Lake Ontario as "Lake America," deepening the rift with Canada that has already triggered (觸發) retaliatory tariffs worth billions of dollars. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has rejected the name change, saying Canadians will continue to use the lake's original name, which derives from an indigenous Wendat word more than four hundred years old. Jagruti Dave, our reporter in Washington, says the executive order has limited practical effect beyond US federal maps, and other countries are unlikely to adopt the new name. Malaysia to Repatriate Myanmar Nationals Malaysia is set to repatriate nearly 1-thousand-500 Myanmar nationals this weekend as part of a voluntary program. The Home Ministry announced Thursday that this is the first phase of a broader (更廣泛的) effort involving 5,000 eligible individuals. The first group, identified by Myanmar’s government, will be sent back on Sept. 29 on Myanmar's navy vessels. As of Aug. 15, the ministry said over 10-thousand Myanmar nationals were held in immigration detention depots (拘留所). It said the government is also introducing a new Refugee Registration Document to manage refugees and asylum seekers. 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 57-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 45,890 on turnover of 8.4-billion N-T. However, the main board surged nearly 400 points within ten minutes of the opening bell to bounce back over the 46,000 mark, as investors were boosted by Nvidia's latest quarterly results - which beat expectations. AI-related and heavyweight electronics stocks are in focus this morning. Lawmakers to vote on drone procurement bills today Lawmakers are voting today on competing (競爭的) drone procurement (採購) bills. The vote had originally been scheduled for tomorrow. However, Legislative Speaker Han Kuo-yu proposed bringing it forward during cross-party caucus talks. The legislative caucuses agreed to move up the vote to allow lawmakers to return to their districts to inspect damage caused by the recent heavy rains and flooding in southern Taiwan. However, the D-P-P, K-M-T and Taiwan People's Party caucuses failed to agree on key aspects of the bills, including which ministry will oversee the drone procurement program, the budget for drone procurement and whether annual spending caps will be imposed. ASF found in** pig carcass in Kinmen and pork shipments suspended** The Kinmen County Government has suspended shipments of pork and processed pork products to Taiwan proper and other outlying islands after a African swine fever was detected in the carcass of a pig that had washed ashore. The suspension (暫停) of shipments of processed pork products runs until next Monday. Live pigs from Kinmen are already banned from being shipped to Taiwan proper and other outlying islands under existing regulations. According to Kinmen County Department of Economic Development, the pig carcass was found on the shoreline at Wu-sha-jiao in Jin-ning Township on Saturday by Coast Guard personnel. County animal health officials disinfected the site as well as the surrounding area. USArmy to spend $2B to build nuclear microreactors at 5 bases as US seeks to ramp up nuclear power The US Army is set to spend $2-billion dollars to build nuclear microreactors (微型核反應爐) at 5 bases as the country seeks to ramp up nuclear power. AP's Lisa Dwyer reports Canada PM to Address EU Parliament Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney will address the European Parliament next month in a high-profile visit that underscores Canada’s push to deepen ties with Europe. The announcement Wednesday comes after a sharp break with the United States under President Donald Trump as the trade war escalates. The prime minister will also attend the European Union’s annual State of the Union address. Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is scheduled to deliver her annual address Sept. 16. Carney is expected to speak the following day. The visit comes days after U.S.-Canada trade talks collapsed and Trump imposed new 50% tariffs on about $20 billion worth of Canadian goods, prompting (推動，使) Ottawa to announce retaliatory tariffs. Carney has set a goal of doubling Canada’s non-U.S. exports over the next decade as he seeks to reduce the country’s economic dependence on the United States. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _. －－－－以下為 SoundOn 動態廣告－－－－ (裕富數位 | 吉速袋) 資金需求別久等，線上操作超便利！ 手機、機車多筆申請免抵押 全程線上辦理3步驟 專人依序審核，核准後最快當日撥款。 立即了解資金方案：https://sofm.pse.is/9mplxy (警語)總費用年百分率約16.45%~24.15%。年利率15.75%~15.99%，手續費1~2.5千元不等。詳參裕富官網。實際撥款時間與條件視審核而定。請謹慎理財。 -- 準備賣房嗎？ 即日起至12月31日， 把房屋專任委託給台南住商不動產，即可參加「好友五吉」抽獎活動，賣房抽五機~有機會抽中最新 iPhone 18！ 錦上添花, 好運大獎拿不完! 詳情請洽台南住商任一加盟店。 https://sofm.pse.is/9kbkd3 -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 12-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 45,158 on turnover of $7-billion N-T. The market closed higher on Tuesday as major semiconductor stocks recouped early losses, but turnover remained moderate with as investors opted to sit on the sidelines as they wait for Nvidia's second-quarterly earnings results. Free flu and COVID-19 vaccination program to start on October 1 The Centers for Disease Control says this year's government-funded seasonal flu and COVID-19 vaccinations will begin as usual on October 1. According to the C-D-C, it has purchased a record 7.05-million publicly funded flu vaccine doses for the upcoming flu season. The C-D-C also says the government has also purchased 2.4-million COVID-19 vaccine doses, including 1.9 million doses of newer-generation (新一代) vaccines for people aged 12 years or older. The publicly funded flu and COVID-19 vaccination program will open on October 1 for adults aged 65 and older, preschool-aged children, healthcare and disease prevention personnel, and people with chronic illnesses. Adults aged between 50 and 64 without high-risk chronic conditions will be eligible for the free flu and COVID-19 jabs from November 2. Haiti Attack Leaves Dozens Dead and Kidnapped The United Nations says armed men have killed at least 47 people and kidnapped over 50 others near Haiti’s capital. This attack, which took place Sunday in Kenscoff, is believed to be one of the largest mass kidnappings in Haiti in recent years. A gang leader has threatened to kill the hostages if authorities harm any gang members. The attack challenges the belief that security in Haiti is improving. Experts say it poses (造成) a major test for the government and police. The attack might also be a show of force as Haiti prepares for general elections in December. CANADA HITS BACK WITH RETALIATORY TARIFFS ON MORE THAN 700 US PRODUCTS AS TRUMP ESCALATES RHETORIC Canada on Tuesday announced retaliatory tariffs on more than seven hundred American products, doubling duties on steel and aluminium to fifty per cent and imposing (強制實行) new levies on electronics, dairy and clothing. The move came after trade talks collapsed late on Friday, prompting Washington to impose fifty per cent tariffs on roughly twenty billion dollars' worth of Canadian goods. US President Donald Trump has responded with a barrage of personal attacks on Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and has floated renaming Lake Ontario. Kate Fisher reports from Washington. US Empire State Building Glow Pink in Dolly Parton Tribute New York City's Empire State Building is illuminating its tower lights in pink in memory of American icon Dolly Parton, and in support of the Imagination Library. Parton, who was 80 years old, died in Nashville after a brief (短暫的) battle with cancer. For nearly six decades, Parton was a singular force in music, film, television and philanthropy. She wrote some of country music's most enduring songs and also starred in films. Parton also launched the Imagination Library in 1995, a literacy program that now sends more than 3 million free books each month to children from birth through age five across the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia and Ireland. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _. －－－－以下為 SoundOn 動態廣告－－－－ 你的職涯卡關了嗎? 高屏澎東分署青年職涯發展中心YS陪你跨出關鍵下一步！ 專為 15-29 歲青年提供「完全免費」的職涯服務： 職涯探索：職涯諮詢、適性測驗 認識職場：職人講座、職場參訪 職場續航：實戰技能、企業主管與心理師指引 點我報名活動：https://sofm.pse.is/9lt66r 以上廣告由勞動部勞動力發展署高屏澎東分署提供 -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 33-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 44,728 on turnover of 5-billion N-T. The market lost ground on Monday, reversing earlier gains amid concerns about a possible major pullback following recent strong showing prompted many investors to stay on the sidelines, resulting in lower turnover. Business group raises concerns over labor shortage in white paper The Taiwan-based Chinese National Federation of Industries says labor shortages are a major issue facing the country's industrial development. The warning is included in the federation's 2026 white paper. According to federation vice chairman Zhan Cheng-tien, a declining birth rate and aging population are worsening the labor shortage and the lack of workers is a pressing challenge in terms of enhancing industrial innovation (工業創新) and economic resilience. The white paper suggests the government review its policy on migrant workers by shifting from a focus on the 3-K industries -- those considered to dangerous, dirty and intense -- to one guided by actual labor shortages. The federation is also urging the government to extend the length of time industrial migrant workers can stay in Taiwan from 12 to 14 years. Donations for Kumamoto earthquake surpass NT$300 million mark And, The Ministry of Foreign Affairs says donations raised by the government to help people affected by the magnitude 7.1 earthquake that struck Japan's Kumamoto Prefecture late last month have surpassed (超越) 300-million N-T. The designated Mega International Commercial Bank account was set up on August 1 and will continue to accept public donations until August 31. According to the foreign ministry, the government and its Japanese counterparts are still discussing how the funds will be used to assist post-disaster relief efforts after the one-month donation period ends. The government has also already donated 5-million N-T to support Japan's reconstruction efforts following the earthquake. US TREASURY SECRETARY UNVEILS 'OPERATION ECONOMIC OUTCAST' SANCTIONS CAMPAIGN AGAINST IRAN BUT HOLDS OFF ON IMMEDIATE PENALTIES US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has unveiled (公佈) a sweeping new sanctions campaign against Iran dubbed "Operation Economic Outcast" — but stopped short of imposing immediate penalties, describing the announcement as a "warning shot" to countries still doing business with Tehran. Iran's currency hit a record low on Monday as the new measures were announced, while Iran's Supreme National Security Council secretary warned that no oil would leave the Persian Gulf if the campaign is broadened. The sanctions target a network of brokers, companies and shadow-fleet vessels across several countries that transport Iranian oil and channel revenue to Iran's Revolutionary Guard. Nick Harper reports from Washington. HRW Colombia Criminals Recruiting Children for Dangerous Tasks A new Human Rights Watch report says drug gangs and rebel groups in Colombia are increasingly recruiting children for dangerous tasks, including piloting drones carrying explosives. The report published Monday also highlights how the groups use social media to recruit children, especially in rural areas. The groups profit from the drug trade, extortion and illegal mining in those areas. Colombia’s Human Rights Defenders' Office says at least 1,500 children have been recruited (被招募) since 2021. Human Rights Watch urges the Colombian government and social media platforms to take stronger action against child recruitment. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _. －－－－以下為 SoundOn 動態廣告－－－－ (裕富數位 | 吉速袋) 資金需求別久等，線上操作超便利！ 手機、機車多筆申請免抵押 全程線上辦理3步驟 專人依序審核，核准後最快當日撥款。 立即了解資金方案：https://sofm.pse.is/9mjqgz (警語)總費用年百分率約16.45%~24.15%。年利率15.75%~15.99%，手續費1~2.5千元不等。詳參裕富官網。實際撥款時間與條件視審核而定。請謹慎理財。 -- 準備賣房嗎？ 即日起至12月31日， 把房屋專任委託給台南住商不動產，即可參加「好友五吉」抽獎活動，賣房抽五機~有機會抽中最新 iPhone 18！ 錦上添花, 好運大獎拿不完! 詳情請洽台南住商任一加盟店。 https://sofm.pse.is/9krz4v -- 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 45,240 on turnover of 5.1-billion N-T. The market closed higher Friday as tech heavyweights rebounded from earlier weakness on bargain hunting. However, turnover was down from its five-day average of 880-billion N-T. Lai uses 1958 Kinmen defense ceremony to push his defense budget President Lai Ching-te says he believes that successful defense of Kinmen in 1958 is a prime example of "peace through strength. The statement came as Lai was attending the annual memorial of the anniversary of a Chinese artillery bombardment of Kinmen at the beginning of the Second Taiwan Strait Crisis. Speaking to the ceremony, Lai said the heroes in Kinmen - regardless of the their backgrounds - united as one to repel the aggression of communist totalitarianism and urged cross-party unity to supporting his 2027 defense budget. Prior to delivering his speech, Lai burned incense, laid a wreath (花圈), and bowed his head to pay his respects amid pouring rain to the soldiers who successfully repelled the attempted Chinese invasion of Kinmen. Taiwan-born astronaut to appear at Washington Nationals Taiwan day Taiwan-born NASA astronaut Kjell Lindgren is set to throw out the ceremonial first pitch at the Washington Nationals second Taiwan Heritage Day at Nationals Park on August 29. According to the Millennial Global Youth Foundation, which organizes of the annual Taiwan Heritage Day, Lindgren was chosen for the honor because of his status as an accomplished (技藝高超，有造詣) astronaut who connects Taiwan and the U-S through his multicultural heritage. Lindgren, whose Chinese name is Lin Chi-erh, was born in Taipei in 1973 while his father was serving in the U-S Air Force in Taiwan and lived in Taichung for more than two years. His mother is Taiwanese. TRUMP SIGNALS NO RETREAT ON CANADA TARIFFS AS TRADE WAR ESCALATES US President Donald Trump has posted on social media that Canada wants the benefits of being a state without being one, signalling no retreat after fifty per cent tariffs on Canadian goods came into force on Saturday. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has announced retaliatory (報復性的) tariffs targeting American steel, dairy and electronics from the eighth of September, saying Washington asked too much and offered too little. US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer says there are no new talks planned with Ottawa. Jagruti Dave has more from Washington. Guinea Refuse Site Landslide Kills 30 Guinea's civil protection service says a mountainous heap of refuse has collapsed at Dar Es Salam, the largest landfill in the capital of Conakry, killing 30 people. Heavy rain that started around 2 a.m. on Sunday washed over the refuse, triggering a landslide that buried nearby shacks. Officials say the site — an open-air waste dump that is the largest in the city — had been designated for (指定用於) closure on Sunday. Locals living around the landfill had been given eviction notices, which forced many to leave the area, but many others were still around at the time of the disaster, according to authorities. Indonesia Arrests Amid Forest and Peatland Fires Indonesian authorities have arrested 72 people suspected of starting forest and peatland fires. The fires have caused a choking haze cloud in central and west Indonesia. Officials say the fires are driven by an intensifying El Nino pattern and a prolonged dry season. The agency resumed cloud-seeding operations, deploying helicopters for water-bombing missions. Authorities are investigating whether companies financed the land clearing, which could expand the probe (調查) beyond those arrested. The blazes have spread smoke into Malaysia, straining relations with neighboring countries. On Sunday, parts of Borneo and South Sumatra were heavily affected. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _. －－－－以下為 SoundOn 動態廣告－－－－ 準備賣房嗎？ 即日起至12月31日， 把房屋專任委託給台南住商不動產，即可參加「好友五吉」抽獎活動，賣房抽五機~有機會抽中最新 iPhone 18！ 錦上添花, 好運大獎拿不完! 詳情請洽台南住商任一加盟店。 https://sofm.pse.is/9kbknp -- Kurt Wu X 中信 X 米米立 X Bonny&Read 天天登入抽聯名活動 📍活動路徑：中信銀行APP>右下角更多>數位點任務牆>【天天登入抽】前往活動頁 👉立即抽獎> https://sofm.pse.is/9lun42 -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening  The Tai-Ex opened up 222-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 44,942 on turnover of 12.1-billion N-T. The market closed in negative territory (下跌；收黑) on Wednesday, as the main board was dragged down (拖累) by the tech sector after A-I stocks were the heaviest losers on Wall Street overnight amid investor criticism that their prices have moved too high. Probe into allegations against Geneva envoy could take two months Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung says an ongoing investigation into numerous allegations (指控) against the Lai administration's representative in Geneva is likely to take two months. According to Lin, Greg Lee has now returned to Taiwan and is cooperating with investigators. The statements come after the foreign ministry received complaints that detailed seven categories of alleged serious misconduct by Lee…including workplace bullying (職場霸凌), incompetent leadership and using public resources for personal purposes. The foreign ministry's Personnel Department has said if the investigation finds that Lee was engaged in workplace bullying, he will be removed from his post in Geneva and face follow-up disciplinary action. Southern township prepares pole-climbing contest for Ghost Festival Hengchun Township in Pingtung County is preparing for its annual Ghost Festival pole-climbing contest on August 27. Organizers have erected (豎立；搭建) a 21-meter bamboo lantern pole in a traditional ritual inviting wandering spirits (孤魂野鬼) to join the festivities. Using an excavator, workers hoisted (吊起) the 21-meter pole onto the roof of the competition structure -- a raised structure supported by 36 wooden poles for the event. Locally known as Ciang-gu (搶孤), the contest sees five-member teams form a human pyramid and help a climber scale (攀爬) a 13-meter wooden pole slicked with beef fat to seize a ceremonial flag at the top. The first team to do so wins a prize of 350,000 N-T.  TRUMP CONFIRMS HE WILL MEET KIM JONG UN THIS YEAR AS NORTH KOREA DISMISSES DIPLOMATIC OVERTURES US President Donald Trump has confirmed he plans to meet North Korean leader Kim Jong Un this year, with a possible summit on the sidelines of the APEC gathering in November. Pyongyang has so far poured cold water on (對…潑冷水；降低…的可能性) the prospect of talks, with Kim Jong Un's sister Kim Yo Jong saying she is not aware of any communication between the two nations. President Trump's confirmation comes as he faces criticism over his decision to cut short joint military drills with South Korea. Nick Harper reports from Washington. Canada US Closer to Trade Agreement Canada and the United States have moved closer to finalizing a trade agreement that would avert (避免；防止) threatened 50% U.S. tariffs. A senior Canadian official calls the emerging terms “a very good deal for Canada” while cautioning that negotiations are not complete. The senior Canadian official said the emerging agreement would provide greater certainty, protect Canada’s dairy sector and jobs threatened by the new tariffs, and preserve what Ottawa considers favorable trade terms with the United States. The tariffs on about $20 billion dollars worth of Canadian imports have been postponed until 12:01 a.m. Saturday. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has also asked provincial premiers to return U.S. alcohol to store shelves, according to Nova Scotia's premier. Nearly 72% of Canada’s goods exports last year went to the United States.  And analysts say the Trump administration might be wary of (對…有所顧忌；保持警惕) imposing a hefty new tariff, paid by U.S. importers who try to pass along the cost to consumers via higher prices, ahead of November’s midterm elections. 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 237-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 45,071 on turnover of 9-billion N-T. The market lost ground on Tuesday as investors opted to pocket gains from recent sessions amid concerns over volatility (波動) in the market on the settlement of August futures contracts. 4 firms and 15 individuals indicted in contaminated cooking oil scandal The Taichung District Prosecutors' Office has indicted (起訴) four companies and 15 individuals in connection with the recent contaminated cooking oil scandal involving Central Union Oil Corporation. All of the defendants (被告) have been charged with violating the Act Governing Food Safety and Sanitation as well for forgery (偽造) and fraud. According to the prosecutors' office, Central Union senior executives were aware that certain shipments of soybeans imported from Brazil had higher levels of heat damage, increasing the risk of a carcinogen (致癌物) forming during the manufacturing process. Prosecutors say they loosened the company's heat-damage control standard without introducing corresponding measures such as increased testing and monitoring in order to avoid immediately reporting the issue. The case affected more than 13,000 businesses across Taiwan. 'A Foggy Tale' named Taiwan's Oscars submission The Ministry of Culture has announced that "A Foggy Tale" will represent Taiwan in the Best International Feature Film category at the 99th Academy Awards. The movie was directed by Chen Yu-hsun and is set during the White Terror era. The selection committee says it chose the film for its vivid characters, compelling (引人入勝的) storytelling and portrayal (刻畫；描寫) of the lives of everyday people during one of Taiwan's darkest chapters. The movie was released last November here in Taiwan and and won Best Narrative Feature, Best Original Screenplay (劇本), Best Makeup and Costume Design and Best Art Direction at the 62nd Golden Horse Awards. The 99th Academy Awards are scheduled to take place on March 14, 2027. META STANDS TRIAL IN OAKLAND AS FOUR US STATES SEEK UP TO $1.4 TRILLION OVER ALLEGED CHILD HARMS The trial of Meta over alleged (被指控的；涉嫌的) child harms from Instagram and Facebook has begun in Oakland, California, with opening statements from both sides on Tuesday. Four US states are seeking up to one-point-four trillion dollars in damages, alleging the company knowingly (明知地；蓄意地) designed its platforms to hook young users. Meta's chief executive Mark Zuckerberg is among the witnesses prosecutors plan to call during the six-week trial. Ira Spitzer has more from San Francisco. Peru Remains Found Near Historic Lima Cultural Site Archaeologists in Peru have unveiled (公布；展示) skeletal remains (遺骸) near Huaca Pucllana, an ancient pyramid in Lima. They believe the remains are of a man sacrificed in a ritual linked to a ceremonial pool. The body was found inside a canal, positioned with the skull facing the pyramid and the Pacific Ocean. Experts say the bones will help researchers understand the rituals of the Lima culture. The Lima culture thrived (蓬勃發展；繁盛) between the first and seventh centuries, long before the Inca Empire. Huaca Pucllana was a key ceremonial center and is now a tourist site. 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 65-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 45,922 on turnover of 8.4-billion N-T. The market closed slightly higher, but on reduced turnover on Monday as investors appeared reluctant to chase prices amid concerns of a major pullback and instead opted to lock-in early gains in large-cap tech stocks. Premier Cho declines to countersign child savings legislation Premier Cho Jung-tai has refused to countersign the Special Act on Taiwan Future Accounts. The Act which was passed by lawmakers in July. According to the Cabinet, Cho is refusing to sign the Act due to violations of constitutional principles and due to concerns that it could allow wealthier families to accumulate larger amounts and ultimately (最終) widen the wealth gap, violating the principle of proportionality (比例原則 ， 相稱性原則). Cabinet spokeswoman Michelle Lee says the government will instead continue implementing the family support measures it approved in May. It's the sixth time since December 2025 that the Premier has refused to countersign legislation. Taiwan and New Zealand announce six areas for deeper economic cooperation Taiwan and New Zealand have agreed on six areas for closer cooperation over the next three years. The agreement was reached during a joint committee meeting to review the implementation (執行) results of the Agreement between New Zealand and the Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen, and Matsu on Economic Cooperation. That agreement has been in effect since December 2013. According to the Ministry of Economic Affairs, delegates at the 13th ANZTEC Joint Committee meeting discussed the results of the implementation of previous provisions such as food safety inspections and plant quarantine, e-commerce and intellectual property. The ministry says members of Taiwan delegation also voiced their hopes that reviews concerning the agreement's growth will continue. US Senator to Introduce Resolution Barring MIlitary Action Against Oman Senator Tim Kaine, a Democrat from Virginia, has announced plans to introduce a resolution barring military action against Oman when the US Senate returns from its August recess. It's a direct response to US President Donald Trump's threat to bomb the Gulf state if it interferes (幹擾) in a deal over control of the Strait of Hormuz. The threat came as a 60-day deadline for a wider peace deal between Washington and Tehran expired on Monday without agreement, with no concrete plans (具體計畫，實質規畫) to end the 24-week war. The White House says it is now shifting to what it calls an economic pressure campaign, with a fresh round of sanctions expected in the coming days. James Gooderson reports from Washington. Brazil President Warms to Oil Drilling in Northern Coastal Regions Brazil’s President Lula da Silva says oil drilling in northern coastal regions could be a "passport to the country’s future." He visited a Petrobras offshore drilling vessel on Monday, following a find announced last week near the Amazon River. Petrobras detected hydrocarbons off Amapa state, suggesting significant (重要的，有份量的) reserves. Lula emphasizes Brazil's commitment to biofuel innovation and renewable energy. He faces a tight election in October and is balancing drilling with alternative energy efforts. The region could hold up to 10 billion barrels of oil. Lula's announcement aligns with his election campaign, aiming to gain support in northern Brazil. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _. －－－－以下為 SoundOn 動態廣告－－－－ 準備賣房嗎？ 即日起至12月31日， 把房屋專任委託給台南住商不動產，即可參加「好友五吉」抽獎活動，賣房抽五機~有機會抽中最新 iPhone 18！ 錦上添花, 好運大獎拿不完! 詳情請洽台南住商任一加盟店。 https://sofm.pse.is/9krz5e -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 30-points this morning from Friday's close, at 45,841 on turnover of 10.9-billion N-T. The market lost ground last Friday, on profit taking ahead of the nearest technical resistance around 46,000 points as Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing gave up its earlier gains. Lawmakers to attend Asian Pacific Parliamentarians' Union meetings A delegation of 13 lawmakers is slated to travel to to Japan later this month to attend the Asian Pacific Parliamentarians’ Union 54th General Assembly and 88th Council Meeting. The delegation will be led by Deputy Legislative Speaker Johnny Chiang. The event this year will held under the themes of inter-parliamentary cooperation to maintain (維持) a free and open economic order and strengthen regional supply chain resilience. Taiwan hosted the Asian Pacific Parliamentarians’ Union General Assembly last year. Starlux's Sorayama-themed A350 arrives in Taiwan A Starlux Airbus A350-1000 featuring livery by renowned Japanese artist Hajime Sorayama has arrived at Taoyuan International Airport. The aircraft, named "Airsorayama Gold," is at the airport ahead of its commercial debut flight (首航) on the carrier's Taipei-Tokyo route later this week. Starlux says it is the second plane in the airline's "Starlux Airsorayama" art project, which showcases Sorayama's signature metallic aesthetic. The new aircraft features a gold-themed livery and the airline says it complements its first Sorayama-designed jet, the "Airsorayama Silver." The aircraft is scheduled to enter commercial service on Starlux's Taipei-Narita route starting Thursday. TRUMP ORDERS PENTAGON TO SCALE BACK JOINT MILITARY EXERCISES WITH SOUTH KOREA HOURS BEFORE DRILLS DUE TO BEGIN US President Donald Trump has ordered Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth to scale back annual joint military exercises with South Korea, posting on Truth Social just hours before the drills were due to begin that they send a message he called hostile to North Korea. The Ulchi Freedom Shield exercises were set to run for eleven days and involve (使參與) around eighteen thousand South Korean troops alongside American forces stationed on the peninsula. The announcement came days after North Korea's eleventh ballistic missile test of the year, and a day after President Trump posted a photograph of himself alongside North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. Reporter Nick Harper in Washington says Trump also linked the decision to South Korea's refusal to support the American-led campaign in Iran. Italy Museum Theft Thieves have stolen four works attributed to Sicilian Renaissance painter Antonello da Messina from a regional museum in the city of Messina in Sicily. According to local news, the theft occurred on Saturday during the Italian Ferragosto holiday. The thieves bypassed (繞過、避開) alarm systems in the evening, taking three panels of the San Gregorio Polyptych and a double-sided panel of the Virgin Mary and the dead Christ. The museum was closed on Sunday while investigators gathered evidence. The theft comes just days after police in the northern Italian city of Parma announced that they had recovered three stolen artworks by Renoir, Cézanne and Matisse worth about $11.5 million US dollars. Five people have been detained in the March theft in Parma province. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _. －－－－以下為 SoundOn 動態廣告－－－－ 準備賣房嗎？ 即日起至12月31日， 把房屋專任委託給台南住商不動產，即可參加「好友五吉」抽獎活動，賣房抽五機~有機會抽中最新 iPhone 18！ 錦上添花, 好運大獎拿不完! 詳情請洽台南住商任一加盟店。 https://sofm.pse.is/9krz4q -- Kurt Wu X 中信 X 米米立 X Bonny&Read 天天登入抽聯名活動 📍活動路徑：中信銀行APP>右下角更多>數位點任務牆>【天天登入抽】前往活動頁 👉立即抽獎> https://sofm.pse.is/9m9dyf -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 82 points this morning from yesterday's close, at 46,104 on turnover of 10.5-billion N-T. MOFA warns on Uganda travel The Ministry of Foreign Affairs says Ugandan immigration officers have withheld the passports of three Taiwan travelers and demanded that they produce Chinese passports, citing the country's "One China principle." According to the minister, three encountered the officers on arriving at Entebbe International Airport on Wednesday. They were eventually allowed to enter Uganda. However, the foreign ministry says immigration officers refused to return their Taiwan passports unless they produced passports issued by China in which entry stamps could be placed. Taiwan's representative office in Somaliland, which is responsible for affairs involving Uganda, and the Taiwanese business association in the country immediately provided assistance to the travelers. The foreign ministry is advising Taiwan nationals to carefully assess (評估) the necessity and potential risks of traveling to Uganda and to postpone planned visits for the time being. NKorea Threatens SelfDefense Amid US SKorean Drills North Korea has threatened to exercise its right to self-defense in a statement that slammed the upcoming U.S.-South Korean military drills as a war rehearsal. In a statement carried by state media Friday, North Korea's Foreign Ministry called the U.S.-South Korean training “a rehearsal for an aggressive war” that is triggering a different level of instability in the region. North Korea also said the drills would be of a “more serious provocative (挑釁的) nature and dangerousness than last year" and involve all the military assets and war-fighting modes of the U.S. and South Korea. The U.S. and South Korea have described the training's scope this year as similar to past years. They say the Ulchi Freedom Shield exercises are meant to strengthen their alliance’s capability and reiterate that the drills are defensive in nature. US CARRIER ROTATION AIMS TO SUSTAIN IRAN BLOCKADE 'INDEFINITELY' AS NAVY READINESS STRETCHED THIN US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth claims the American military can maintain its naval blockade on Iran indefinitely by rotating aircraft carriers in and out of the Strait of Hormuz. The carrier currently enforcing the blockade has been at sea for a record two hundred consecutive days, prompting growing concern among lawmakers in Washington about crew welfare. A replacement vessel is now on its way from the Pacific to relieve it — a move Washington hopes will undermine (破壞) any Iranian assumption that the deployment is unsustainable. James Gooderson, our reporter in Washington, says the carrier rotation is exposing the strain the war in Iran is placing on the US Navy's global posture, with the departure of a vessel from the Pacific leaving China with greater freedom to project power in the region. Vietnam Seizes Ivory Illegally Shipped from Africa Vietnamese authorities have seized a large shipment of ivory illegally shipped from Africa. The haul includes 221 pieces of elephant ivory weighing over 1,193 kilograms. It was displayed to the media on Wednesday in Gia Lai province. Vietnam is a major hub for the illicit wildlife trade, with much of the contraband transshipped (轉船 / 換船) to China. Inspections last week found the ivory hidden in sawn timber in a shipment from the Republic of the Congo. The illegal cargo also contained animal bones often used in traditional medicine. A criminal investigation has been launched. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _. －－－－以下為 SoundOn 動態廣告－－－－ 準備賣房嗎？ 即日起至12月31日， 把房屋專任委託給台南住商不動產，即可參加「好友五吉」抽獎活動，賣房抽五機~有機會抽中最新 iPhone 18！ 錦上添花, 好運大獎拿不完! 詳情請洽台南住商任一加盟店。 https://sofm.pse.is/9kbkbt -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 158-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 45,676 on turnover of 15.4-billion N-T. The market closed higher on Wednesday led by AI-related stocks, but turnover was limited as investors awaited the release of the latest U-S consumer price index data. Market watchers say the Tai-Ex managed to gain ground despite Wall Street declining overnight, as AI-related stocks listed on U-S indexes still moved higher, which sparked buying in their counterparts here in Taiwan. MOFA** seeks Indonesia clarification over China-announced joint naval exercise** The Ministry of Foreign Affairs says it has asked Indonesia to clarify a joint naval exercise east of Taiwan announced by China. The statement comes after China's defense ministry announced that joint Chinese-Indonesian Naval navigation exercises would be taking place. According to the foreign ministry, it "immediately contacted relevant parties" to learn more about the situation and asked the Indonesian side for clarification (說明) after China "unilaterally claimed" Indonesia would participate in the drill. Jakarta has described its planned naval activities as "Passing Exercises" that are "not war-fighting in nature." Taoyuan to expand free milk program to junior high school students The Taoyuan City Government has announced plans to expand its free milk program. The move will include junior high school students beginning with the 2026 school year that commences on August 31. According to Taoyuan Mayor Simon Chang, the expansion of the program will benefit some 280,000 students aged between 2 and 15, from preschool through junior high school. The program was launched in February and provides one free milk or soy milk product per week to every preschool and elementary school student in Taoyuan. The city government has said the take-up rate (參與率) had reached about 70-per cent. UN: Taliban Detained Two Afghan Members of UN Political Mission The United Nations says Afghanistan’s Taliban rulers have detained two Afghan members of the U.N. political mission in the country. U.N. deputy spokesman Farhan Haq told U.N. reporters on Wednesday that the Taliban’s General Directorate of Intelligence detained the two staffers in the western city of Herat on Sunday. He said the U.N. mission has not been informed of the charges against the two men or been able to visit them. The Taliban seized power in 2021, as U.S. and NATO forces withdrew (轍) from the country after two decades of war. MEDIA GROUPS SUE TRUMP OVER TRUTH SOCIAL'S PAID API SERVICE, CALLING IT UNCONSTITUTIONAL Two media organisations have filed a federal lawsuit against US President Donald Trump and senior White House officials, challenging Truth Social's paid subscription service as unconstitutional. The service charges up to a hundred thousand dollars a month for early access to the president's posts — many of which serve as the sole channel for official government announcements. Nick Harper in Washington says the lawsuit could prompt the White House to further restrict (限制) press access. Ecuador Cocaine Shipment Seized Police in Ecuador have seized a cocaine shipment featuring soccer star Erling Haaland's face on the packaging. The bust occurred near the Colombian border, with 469 kilograms of cocaine found in a truck. The driver was arrested, but police didn't explain why Haaland's image was used. It's common for traffickers to label shipments with celebrity images to identify networks and clients. The operation followed an anonymous tip (匿名線索) on Tuesday. The shipment's value is estimated at over $11 million in the U.S. 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 opens higher The Tai-Ex opened up 54 points this morning from yesterday's close, at 45,175, on turnover of 10.3-billion N.T. The market closed slightly higher on Tuesday after recovering from early losses, as investors bought selected electronic component stocks (電子零組件股) at lower prices. Market watchers say the early decline followed losses on Wall Street after crude oil prices (原油價格) rose sharply. However, investors soon began buying AI-related stocks. Strong demand for AI devices also helped the Tai-Ex move back into positive territory (上漲區間) by the end of trading. Coast Guard apologizes over illegal entry case Coast Guard Administration Director-General Chang Chung-lung (張忠龍) has apologized for failures in the handling of two Chinese nationals who illegally entered Taiwan by rubber boat (橡皮艇). A member of the public found the boat near Taipei Port. Chang says a radar operator failed to follow standard procedures (標準作業程序), while patrol officers did not fully search the coastline. He says the agency will not protect those responsible and will hold them accountable. The boat was found near Taipei Port's northern breakwater in New Taipei's Bali District on July 24. Coast Guard officers later identified the two suspects using footage from coastal monitoring systems (海岸監控系統). They were arrested in Taoyuan on July 30. Metro Sanying Line to extend operating hours The MRT Sanying Line will begin operating from 6 a.m. to midnight this Sunday. The newly opened line connects Dingpu Station on the Bannan Line with Yingge District. Passengers will continue to travel for free during the trial period (試營運期間). The metro operator (捷運營運單位) says the longer hours will give more people a chance to use the line. They will also allow staff to test its performance under normal operating conditions. The Sanying Line began trial operations on June 30. Since August 1, it has operated from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., with trains running every six to eight minutes. South Korea says North Korea launches ballistic missile South Korea says North Korea has launched a ballistic missile (彈道飛彈) toward the sea. It was North Korea's second missile test in less than a week. South Korea's military says it detected the launch from North Korea's east coast at around 6 a.m. The test may be a protest against upcoming South Korea-U.S. military exercises (軍事演習). North Korea considers the drills preparation for an invasion (入侵). The launch came two days after South Korea and the United States announced that their annual exercises would begin next week. The two countries say the drills are aimed at improving their ability to respond to threats from North Korea. Former US Marine released from Russian detention Former U.S. Marine Robert Gilman is returning to the United States after Russia released him from detention (拘留、羈押). U.S. President Donald Trump says he spoke with Gilman on Tuesday. Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a pardon (特赦) on what officials called humanitarian grounds (人道考量). The decision followed negotiations over the weekend. U.S. officials say Washington did not agree to a prisoner exchange (換囚、交換囚犯) or make any concessions. Gilman had been held for more than four years following an incident on a train to Moscow. He is expected to arrive at Joint Base Andrews on Tuesday evening. Nick Harper reports from Washington. 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. The Tai-Ex opened down 44-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 44,883 on turnover of 11.7-billion N-T. The market gained solid ground on Monday as buying was sparked by a rally on Wall Street last Friday after weaker-than-expected job data and eased concerns about a rate hike by the U-S Federal Reserve. MOFA** probes workplace bullying accusations against Geneva envoy** The Ministry of Foreign Affairs says it has opened an investigation into allegations that President Lai Ching-te's top envoy in Geneva was involved in workplace bullying and other misconduct. According to the ministry, it formed a special task force, composed mainly of personnel from outside the ministry to conduct (執行) the investigation, after receiving a complaint against Greg Lee. The petition was from some of his subordinates (下屬) at the Taiwan representative office in Switzerland. The foreign ministry says the investigation is focusing on accusations of workplace bullying, while other complaints of misbehavior will be handled by the appropriate government agencies. Taiwan sees** population decline for 31st consecutive month** And, The Ministry of the Interior says data shows that Taiwan's population declined for a 31st consecutive month in July. According to the ministry, Taiwan’s population stood at 23,235,002 at the end of last month - which was a decline of 102,934 from the same period of last year. The number of newborns (新生兒) last month rose to 7,906, which was up by 582 from June. However, the total number of births during the first seven months of this year stood at 54,250 and that's a decline of15.7-per cent from the same period of last year. WHO Warning on Ebola Outbreak in Congo The World Health Organization says the fastest-growing Ebola outbreak started in February, months before it was officially declared in May. The WHO regional director says early cases were wrongly attributed to malaria and typhoid. Confirmed cases have reached 4,200, with over 1,900 deaths. The Bundibugyo virus responsible for this outbreak has no approved vaccines or treatments. WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus has warned that Ebola is spreading faster than efforts to fight it. Access to healthcare is challenged by years of conflict (衝突) in one of Congo’s most remote areas. US Trump Signs Order Spacing** Out Childhood Vaccines** US President Donald Trump wants changes in the way childhood vaccines are delivered. The AP's Jennifer King reports. UK France Brace for 5th Heatwave The U.K. and France are bracing for the fifth heat wave of the season, adding to an intense stretch of hot weather that has repeatedly sent temperatures soaring across Europe since May. France's national weather agency is warning about temperatures approaching 40 C from today onward in southeastern France. Across Europe, the extreme heat began in May and has contributed to (導致) major wildfires, prolonged (延長) drought and new national temperature records, as well as thousands of projected heat-related deaths. According to climate statistics, globally so fa, this is the third-hottest year, behind 2024 and 2025. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

準備賣房嗎？ 即日起至12月31日， 把房屋專任委託給台南住商不動產，即可參加「好友五吉」抽獎活動，賣房抽五機~有機會抽中最新 iPhone 18！ 錦上添花, 好運大獎拿不完! 詳情請洽台南住商任一加盟店。 https://sofm.pse.is/9gw8y9 －－－－以上為 SoundOn 動態廣告－－－－ Tai-Ex opening upward Taiwan envoy to Japan protests Nagasaki memorial designation, skips event Lai inspects Taoyuan Avenger Air Defense System Netanyahu rejects Trump's Gaza peace roadmap Ancient Rome shipwreck found -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Lai boards coast guard vessel to observe coastal defense President Lai Ching-te boarded a Coast Guard Administration vessel in New Taipei's Bali District to observe coastal defense (海岸防禦) operations during the Han Kuang military exercise. According to the Presidential Office, Lai received briefings (簡報) on the patrol vessel's equipment and coastal strike operations. He also inspected its missile launcher system and learned about its configuration and operational readiness (作戰準備狀態). Thursday marked the second day of the Han Kuang exercise, with drills in the north focusing on coastal defense and other defensive operations. Typhoon Dolphin moves west Meteorologist Wu De Rong says Typhoon Dolphin appears to be moving further west even as it continues to weaken. The Central News Agency cites Wu as saying that while the system is expected to pass near the Ryukyu Islands today, uncertainty in its projected track (預測路徑) is increasing, making it less likely that the storm might miss Taiwan completely. Because of this, Wu is warning of intense rainfall in northern Taiwan and later in central and southern Taiwan tomorrow through the early morning of the 10th. While temperatures are expected to drop in parts of Taiwan, eastern Taiwan may experience extreme heat due to downslope warming (下坡增溫) caused by air descending over the mountains. Strong wind gusts are also expected across Taiwan, and residents are advised to take precautions. National Central University planning Arctic expedition Members of the National Central University's Polar Institute are taking part in what is Taiwan's first ever independently planned expedition (考察／探險) to the Arctic. According to the university, a 30-member team will be spending 12 days near Norway's Svalbard archipelago (群島), which is located midway between mainland Norway and the North Pole. The team includes scientists from Academia Sinica, the National Taiwan University and the National Academy of Marine Research. The university says although Taiwan is not an Arctic nation, changes in the Arctic could have long-term consequences for Taiwan. UKRAINE WARNS ALLIED AIR DEFENCE MISSILE SUPPLIES DOWN BY A THIRD AS ZELENSKY URGES URGENT ACTION AHEAD OF WINTER Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy says Ukraine has hit more oil facilities deep inside Russia. The attacks are part of Kyiv's effort to undermine (削弱) Moscow's wartime economy. Meanwhile, Russian drone and glide bomb attacks across Ukraine killed at least three civilians and wounded 22 others. Zelenskyy is urging his allies to supply interceptor missiles to bolster (加強／強化) Ukraine's air defenses. William Denselow reports from Brussels. That was William Denselow reporting. Iran reviews ban on US ships An Iranian parliamentary committee is ​reviewing a preliminary bill ‌that would bar (禁止) U.S., Israeli and ​other "hostile" vessels from ​transiting the Strait of Hormuz. The ban was reported by Iran's semi-official ​Fars news agency… and its citing a lawmaker. The draft bill would impose ​fines (處以罰款) of up ​to 20% of a ship's ‌cargo value for violations of the proposed restrictions. The lawmaker said ​the ​legislation was still under expert review ​and that ​parliament had invited specialists to submit recommendations before the ​draft is ​finalised. Canada climate change wildfires In North America, a new analysis (分析) found that climate change created conditions that led to Canada's Wildfires… even though the Trump administration thinks otherwise. Ed Donahue explains. 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 123-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 44,487 on turnover of 14.2-billion N-T. The market returned to the 44,000-point level on Wednesday.  Strong gains in technology shares helped the index move back above its monthly and quarterly averages (季度平均線). MAC warns on China's new entry-exit rules  The Mainland Affairs Council says China's new entry-exit rules (出入境規定) could increase the risks for Taiwanese travelers visiting the country. The council says the rules include unclear national security measures and give authorities broad power to limit people's movement (限制人員行動). Speaking at a legislative hearing, council minister Chiu Chui-cheng said the rules put many of China's existing controls into law. He said these controls are already very strict for both Chinese citizens and foreigners. Chiu told lawmakers that the conditions for limiting people's movement remain unclear and too broad. He said this lack of clear legal standards (法律標準) is the main reason for concern. The new rules will take effect on September 15. EVA to launch Taipei-Delhi flights in December EVA Airways will launch nonstop flights (直飛航班) between Taipei and Delhi on December 1. Tickets are now available through the airline's website and travel agencies. EVA will operate five round trips (來回航班) a week using Airbus A330-300 aircraft. It will become the only Taiwan-based airline offering nonstop passenger flights to India. EVA Air President Clay Sun says the new route comes as Taiwan and India strengthen ties in manufacturing, semiconductors, artificial intelligence and other technology industries. These growing ties have increased demand for faster travel between the two countries. The airline says the service will also give Indian business travelers, students and researchers easier connections (轉機航班) through Taipei to North America. Myanmar leader visits Thailand in push for regional engagement Myanmar's military leader, Min Aung Hlaing, is visiting Thailand as Bangkok seeks to restart talks between Myanmar and ASEAN. Min Aung Hlaing is expected to meet Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul before attending a business forum (商業論壇) between the two countries. Thailand says its careful approach aims to keep communication open and encourage Myanmar to follow ASEAN's peace plan (和平計畫), which has made little progress (進展甚微). Myanmar's leaders have been banned from ASEAN summits since the military took power in 2021, leading to a civil war. Min Aung Hlaing became president in April after an army-backed (由軍方支持的) party won an election without any strong opposition. Flavio Bolsonaro names Alfredo Gaspar as running mate Brazilian presidential candidate Flavio Bolsonaro has chosen conservative lawmaker Alfredo Gaspar as his running mate (競選搭檔) in October's election. The decision surprised observers because Bolsonaro had considered choosing a woman to attract more voters. Gaspar represents the northeastern state of Alagoas and previously served as the state's public security secretary. He also led a congressional investigation into Brazil's social security agency. The investigation has raised questions involving one of President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva's sons. Lula's son denies any wrongdoing (不當行為). Indonesia drought boosts salt harvest but threatens crops A drought (乾旱) caused by El Niño is sharply increasing salt production in Indonesia. However, farmers are also preparing for stronger heat and crop losses. In West Java, salt production reached nearly 600 metric tons in July. That is much higher than the 25 to 30 tons produced during the same month last year. Most salt in Indonesia is made by allowing seawater to dry in shallow ponds (淺水池) near the coast. Long periods of sunshine help speed up this process. The national weather agency says the dry season is expected to reach its strongest point this month and could continue into early 2027. More than 5-thousand possible fire areas were found across Indonesia last month, raising concerns about wildfires. Salt producers expect a very large harvest.  Meanwhile, crop farmers are being advised to change their planting schedules and prepare for a long dry period. 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 449 points higher this morning from yesterday's close, at 43-thousand-809, on turnover of 25.5-billion N-T. The market closed almost unchanged (幾乎沒有變化) on Tuesday after moving by more than 1,000 points during the session. Early gains (早盤漲幅) were reduced by selling, as investors largely ignored an overnight rally (上漲行情) on Wall Street. Lai meets with Eswatini's visiting PM President Lai Ching-te has held talks with visiting Eswatini Prime Minister Russell Dlamini. During the meeting, Lai said the two countries are working together in industry, public health and digital development. He said his administration will continue to strengthen exchanges (加強交流) with Eswatini and help the country meet its development goals (發展目標). The cooperation includes energy projects, such as facilities for storing emergency oil supplies (緊急石油儲備). Lai also thanked Dlamini for Eswatini's support for Taiwan's participation in international organizations (國際組織) during the United Nations General Assembly. MOTC eyeing future of Taoyuan International Airport's Terminal 1  The Ministry of Transport is reportedly considering several options for the future of Terminal 1 at Taoyuan International Airport. The terminal has been in service for nearly 50 years. The ministry says an evaluation (評估) is now underway, but detailed plans will not be released until construction of Terminal 3 is completed at the end of next year. Possible options include demolishing (拆除) and rebuilding Terminal 1 or carrying out another major upgrade (進行升級改建). The Taoyuan International Airport Corporation is expected to submit its own proposal by the end of this year. The terminal was upgraded between 2010 and 2013, raising its annual passenger capacity (旅客運量) from 12 million to 15 million. Qatar reports progress in U.S.-Iran mediation Qatar says mediators (調停者) are making progress toward ending the U.S.-Iran war, although conflicting statements have raised doubts about a quick agreement. Qatar says it is working with Pakistan and Oman to exchange draft proposals (提案草案) between Washington and Tehran. U.S. President Donald Trump says direct talks have begun, but Iranian officials deny that negotiations with the United States are taking place. Iran says separate talks with Oman about safe shipping routes (航運路線) through the Strait of Hormuz are going well. Brent crude oil prices fell more than 5 percent on hopes that ships may soon be able to use the strait again. However, the important shipping route remains almost completely closed. Another cargo ship was hit near the strait, forcing the crew to leave the vessel. One crew member (船員) remains missing. North Korea warns of new military measures against Japan North Korea says it may take additional military action (額外軍事行動) in response to Japan's recent test launch (試射) of a Tomahawk cruise missile. Kim Yo Jong, the sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, criticized the launch in a statement published by state media. Japan fired the long-range missile from the Aegis destroyer Chokai in the Pacific Ocean. Kim also mentioned Japan's tests of other missiles and its participation in a U.S.-led military exercise in the Philippines in May. She accused Japan of trying to become a major military power and said the United States was supporting those efforts. Kim said North Korea would prepare additional military options to respond to what it sees as a potential threat (潛在威脅), but she gave no details. SpaceX rocket debris set to strike moon A discarded (被丟棄的／廢棄的) piece of a SpaceX rocket is expected to crash into the moon at around 2:35 this afternoon Taiwan time. The four-metric-ton object is the second stage (火箭級段) of a Falcon 9 rocket launched in January 2025. It is expected to hit Einstein Crater at a speed of about 8-thousand-690 kilometers per hour. SpaceX says the crash was not planned. The rocket stage ran out of fuel and could no longer be controlled after completing its mission. The impact is expected to send lunar dust into the air, although it will be difficult to see from Earth without special equipment. Experts say the crash poses no danger, but it raises concerns about how space debris (太空垃圾) will be managed as more missions travel to the moon. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

準備賣房嗎？ 即日起至12月31日， 把房屋專任委託給台南住商不動產，即可參加「好友五吉」抽獎活動，賣房抽五機~有機會抽中最新 iPhone 18！ 錦上添花, 好運大獎拿不完! 詳情請洽台南住商任一加盟店。 https://sofm.pse.is/9fsm7z －－－－以上為 SoundOn 動態廣告－－－－ KMT calls for accountability over delayed reporting in tainted oil case Domestic travel trips and spending hit record highs in 2025 EU calls for stronger borders Cuba's blackouts threaten people's lives Trump complains about energy companies making too much money -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

準備賣房嗎？ 即日起至12月31日， 把房屋專任委託給台南住商不動產，即可參加「好友五吉」抽獎活動，賣房抽五機~有機會抽中最新 iPhone 18！ 錦上添花, 好運大獎拿不完! 詳情請洽台南住商任一加盟店。 https://sofm.pse.is/9hecmh －－－－以上為 SoundOn 動態廣告－－－－ Typhoon Dolphin's current situation Han Kuang highlights: US-type methods, new tanks, more reserves Chou Ling-wen elected as first female CTBA president Japan's Economy Minister pledges greater market transparency Brazil President Lula's bid for reelection -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 1,677-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 41,610 on turnover of $33.5-billion N-T. Taiwan shares closed below the 40,000-point threshold on Thursday after a volatile session that saw the benchmark index swing more than 1,700 points, erasing an intraday surge of over 1,100 points as late selling dragged the market lower. Analysts say the correction has been unusually steep, with the Taiex down more than 6,192 points so far this month and on track for its biggest monthly point decline on record. MOFA opens Kumamoto earthquake donation account The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has opened a dedicated bank account for cash donations as it works to establish a relief fund for people in Japan affected by Tuesday's magnitude 7.1 earthquake that struck Kumamoto Prefecture. The Mega Bank account will accept donations from the public from tomorrow through August 31. Presidential Office spokesperson Karen Kuo says President Lai Ching-te, Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim and Premier Cho Jung-tai will each donate 200,000 N-T to the account. Kuo said Taiwan and Japan have supported each other during difficult times over the years and she's calling on the public to extend (給予，提供) their goodwill to earthquake-hit areas and help residents return to normal life as soon as possible. COSTA RICA'S GRYNSPAN LEADS FIRST UN SECURITY COUNCIL STRAW POLL IN RACE TO SUCCEED GUTERRES Costa Rica's Rebeca Grynspan has emerged as the frontrunner in the first informal straw poll (非正式投票) to choose the next United Nations Secretary-General, winning ten votes of encouragement from the fifteen members of the Security Council. Seven candidates — four women and three men — are vying to succeed António Guterres, whose second five-year term ends at the end of December. The Security Council did not officially release the results, and paper ballots were destroyed after counting. Mitch Mccann reports from New York. Liberia Burns Confiscated Concaine Liberian law enforcement agents have burned some 4.2 metric tons of cocaine worth about $336 million. The action comes after the country’s largest-ever drug seizure, which implicated senior police officials. Authorities say investigators identified officers who allegedly helped escort the cocaine. The police chief of highway patrol and the head of major crimes have been charged, while a deputy police commander is also a suspect. The Justice Ministry says the cocaine was recovered during a raid near the capital, Monrovia. Liberia's police and drug enforcement agency also burned cocaine seized in June. West Africa has become a key transit route (轉運路線) for cocaine trafficked from South America to Europe. Argentina Emergency Decree to Deny Entry or Expel Foreigners who Incite Violence Argentine President Javier Milei has signed an emergency decree allowing the government to deny entry to or expel foreigners who incite discrimination or violence against Argentines. This measure adds new grounds to Argentina’s immigration law, allowing authorities to revoke visas and deport those promoting hatred against Argentines. The move follows weeks of international backlash during and after the World Cup, when controversy over refereeing decisions, Argentina’s aggressive style of play and a post-match brawl broadened into criticism of the country itself. The decree does not apply to protected speech but leaves unclear how officials will distinguish prohibited hate speech. 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 slightly higher this morning at 40,048 points, with turnover of 15.7-billion N.T. dollars. The market fell sharply (大幅下跌) again on Wednesday, losing more than 1,500 points. Investors remain worried about the large amount of money companies are spending on artificial intelligence (人工智慧). MOFA to protest 'Taiwan, China' name in South Africa's ETA system The Ministry of Foreign Affairs says it will protest (抗議) South Africa's use of the name "Taiwan, China" in its Electronic Travel Authorization (旅行授權) system. Taiwanese travelers are not yet able to use the system. But reports say Taiwan appears in the website's passport menu under the incorrect (不正確的) name "Taiwan, China." The foreign ministry says Taiwan's representative office in Pretoria has been told to file a formal protest and ask South Africa to correct the name. Control Yuan refers former top trade negotiator, Yang Jen-ni to disciplinary court The Control Yuan has impeached (彈劾) former top trade negotiator Yang Jen-ni and sent her case to the Disciplinary Court. Yang was removed from her position last month after an investigation found that she repeatedly (一再地；反覆地) bullied her former deputy, Yen Huai-hsing. Yen resigned in February and died on March 12 at the age of 53. The Control Yuan says Yang seriously violated (違反) rules for public officials and should face a disciplinary review (懲戒審查). Yang denies any wrongdoing. TRUMP VOWS HEAVY STRIKES ON IRAN AFTER US INTERCEPTS BALLISTIC MISSILE ATTACK ON FORCES IN JORDAN U.S. President Donald Trump has promised heavy strikes on Iran after Iran's Revolutionary Guard fired several ballistic missiles (彈道飛彈) at U.S. military sites in Jordan on Tuesday. All of the missiles were intercepted (攔截). The attack ended a pause in the fighting. It came as U.S. and Saudi fighter jets carried out joint strikes on Iran-linked militia targets in Iraq. Iraq's Popular Mobilisation Forces says at least 20 people were killed. Iran says it does not want the conflict (衝突) to grow, but more countries are now becoming involved. Kate Fisher reports from Washington. Kenya elephants suspected to have been poisoned Wildlife officials in Kenya say 15 elephants may have been poisoned (中毒；被下毒) after eating tomatoes contaminated with cyanide (氰化物). The elephants died over the past month near Amboseli National Park in southern Kenya. Authorities have not said who may be responsible. In the past, some farmers have been suspected of poisoning elephants to protect their crops. The Kenya Wildlife Service says the contamination could also affect livestock (牲畜) in the area. Officials say the toxic substances (有毒物質) found in the elephants do not pose an immediate risk to people. 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 112-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 41,491 on turnover of 13.6-billion N-T. Shares in Taiwan posted the third largest single-session point decline Tuesday as tech stocks took a beating amid lingering concerns over massive spending on AI development that may not deliver comparable returns. Analysts say the index faced pressure soon after the market opened as investors witnessed losses posted by tech stocks in the United States overnight. And memory chip suppliers in South Korea also tumbled, triggering more of a sell-off among local semiconductor stocks. (CNA - NS) Taiwan Search and Rescue on Standby After Kumamoto Quake Taiwan’s elite search and rescue teams are on standby to deploy to Japan following a powerful earthquake in Kumamoto Prefecture. President Lai Ching-te and Premier Cho Jung-tai has instructed emergency agencies to prepare for deployment (部署). The National Fire Agency says it has contacted the Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association and Japan’s Fire and Disaster Management Agency to express sympathy and offer support. And officials say Taiwan’s international humanitarian aid mechanism will officially activate as soon as Japan’s government formally requests emergency assistance through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. (NS) Japan 13 Dead** After Kumamoto Quake** Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi said 13 people have been found dead after a powerful quake shook part of southwestern Japan. The magnitude 7.1 earthquake struck the Kumamoto area on the southern main island of Kyushu late Tuesday afternoon. Takaichi says this morning that many other people were injured or still missing as rescue work continued overnight. Part of a shopping center collapsed, apparently due to a gas leak, and a huge chimney at a paper factory collapsed (倒塌). The Fire and Disaster Management Agency said more than 260,000 people were advised to evacuate, most of them in Kumamoto prefecture, but also in the neighboring Nagasaki prefecture. IRAN VOWS 'ANY ACTION' TO KEEP CONTROL OF STRAIT OF HORMUZ AS TRUMP AND NETANYAHU DISCUSS TEHRAN'S NUCLEAR PROGRAMME Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi has said on Tuesday that Tehran will take any action to keep control of the Strait of Hormuz, rejecting an Omani proposal to divide shipping routes and refusing to negotiate (談判) with Washington. The declaration came as US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu concluded White House talks the two described as excellent — with both leaders reaffirming what the White House called an ironclad commitment to preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons. Attention has now turned to whether Washington has given Israel permission to strike Iranian energy infrastructure — something Israel's defence minister says the United States has so far blocked. Mitch Mccann has more from New York. Kashmir Pakistani Officials Accuse Outlawed Political Group of Sabotage Officials in Pakistan administered Kashmir are accusing an outlawed political group of trying to sabotage elections for the region’s constitutional assembly. They also allege that Pakistani Taliban militants have infiltrated ongoing protests. The accusations follow clashes on Monday that left one paramilitary officer dead and several others wounded. Armed protesters reportedly opened fire on police and security personnel during a sit-in. The protests have overshadowed (給……蒙上陰影) the election, which began Monday and runs through Aug. 10-th. Authorities claim the Joint Awami Action Committee is behind the unrest and warn that armed militants pose a threat to public order. 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 412-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 43,221 on turnover of 13.4-billion N-T. The market ended marginally lower on Monday, as large-cap tech stocks rebounded from early losses, while rotational buying in the financial sector helped limit the downturn. FDA** releases findings on Central Union cooking oil contamination** The Food and Drug Administration has released the findings of an independent investigation into the cause of carcinogen contamination in seven batches of cooking oil produced by Central Union Oil Corporation. Minister Without Portfolio Chen Shih-chung says the contamination began with a shipment of Brazilian soybeans. The investigation was conducted by an expert panel convened by the Food Industry Research and Development Institute. According to Chen, it identified three main problems - those being that high-risk raw materials were not properly managed, production irregularities were not adequately addressed and the company's food safety risk management was insufficient (不足的). The Cabinet last week approved draft amendments to the Act Governing Food Safety and Sanitation and sent them to the Legislature for review. MODA warns of increasing number of ransomware threats The Ministry of Digital Affairs is warned the number of ransomware attacks targeting local businesses is increasing, as hackers are turning to generative A-I. According to the ministry's Administration for Cyber Security, ransomware is one of the biggest cybersecurity risks facing companies and businesses need to take steps to strengthen protection. Administration director-general Tsai Fu-lung says businesses need to take four steps to ensure their data is secure - those being making regular backups and software updates, ensuring the use of strong passwords, and issuing warnings to employees about suspicious (可疑的) links. Tsai says ransomware attacks this year have targeted local companies in the paper manufacturing, biotech, and semiconductor sectors. MACRON VISITS GIRONDE AS FRENCH WILDFIRE AUTHORITIES WARN BLAZE COULD BURN FOR MONTHS French President Emmanuel Macron is travelling to the Gironde region of southwestern France, to meet emergency workers battling wildfires. The fires have burned more than 42-thousand hectares and forced some 220-thousand people from their homes. The Gironde prefecture said the situation (情況) overnight was "globally stable" — a change from previous days — but fire authorities have warned the blaze could take months to fully extinguish. Will Denselow reports from Mios, one of several towns near Bordeaux, where evacuation orders were issued on Sunday. Canada US Consulate Shooting A shooter fired at the U.S. Consulate in Toronto early Monday morning, marking the second such incident this year. Police reported no injuries but found a single shell casing and damage to the building's facade. A high-speed chase followed, but no arrests were made. The U.S. Consulate was also targeted March 10, when two suspects allegedly fired multiple shots at the building before driving away in a stolen vehicle. Two were arrested and charged wtih multiple offences. Authorities are investigating possible links to gun-for-hire networks, which have also targeted (有針對性的) synagogues and Jewish-owned bakeries in the city. Subject: C*OUTRO Return to Table of contents 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 43,585 on turnover of 8.6-billion N-T. The market took a beating on Friday, plunging over 1,000 points as a spike in crude oil prices due to escalating military conflicts in the Middle East and lingering concerns over a possible AI bubble spooked investor sentiment. 6,000 more doses of COVID-19 vaccine now available in Taipei The Centers for Disease Control says 6,000 doses of COVID-19 vaccines will be delivered to the Taipei City Department of Health this week and will be distributed to contracted (承包的) medical institutions and outpatient hospital clinics. The statement comes amid claims that clinics in Taipei were reportedly out of COVID-19 vaccine doses. Concern over a lack of vaccine doses comes after the C-D-C last week announced the extension of its publicly funded COVID-19 vaccination program through September 28 due to a rise in the number of cases. According to the C-D-C, Taiwan entered a new COVID-19 epidemic phase two weeks ago, as outpatient and emergency room visits rose by 66.5-per cent in the week of July 12 to 18 from the previous week. The publicly funded vaccination had been scheduled to end July 31. Miaoli Mazu** temple becomes Taiwan's 1st to retire carbon credits** The Baishatun Gongtian Temple in Miaoli County has become the first in Taiwan to offer visitors the option of offsetting their carbon emissions through the retirement of Gold Standard carbon credits. According to the Tourism Innovation Association of Taiwan, data shows the average visitor to the temple generated about 0.04 kilograms of carbon dioxide equivalent. Under the new scheme, government agencies, businesses, schools, organizations and religious groups visiting the temple for worship, company outings, or cultural tours can apply to retire carbon credits based on the number of participants. The association is also partnering with the Miaoli County government's Culture and Tourism Bureau to develop travel itineraries centered on Gongtian Temple that have also obtained carbon credit retirement certification. US Seattle Shooting Multiple Dead In the US… Multiple people were injured in a shooting Sunday night at an events complex (大型展演場館) close to the Space Needle in Seattle, police said in a statement. Authorities did not immediately release more information. US AND IRAN HOLD FIRE FOR SECOND DAY AS OMAN BROKERS TALKS ON STRAIT OF HORMUZ SHIPPING ROUTES The United States and Iran have held their fire for a second consecutive day, as negotiators work to revive an interim (暫時的) ceasefire deal to end the war. US Ambassador to the United Nations Mike Waltz has said US President Donald Trump is giving the talks room, while a senior Iranian source has told Reuters that Tehran will maintain the pause as long as Washington does. An Omani delegation is now in Tehran to discuss the management of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz — the issue at the heart of the conflict. Jagruti Dave reports from Washington. Brazil Recalls Ambassador to Argentina After Milei Insult Brazil’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs says it has recalled its ambassador to Argentina after President Javier Milei insulted Brazilian officials while in their country. The decision comes a day after Milei was in Sao Paulo participating in an event where Brazilian Sen. Flávio Bolsonaro, a son of former President Jair Bolsonaro, was confirmed as the presidential candidate of his father’s party. During his speech at Saturday’s event, Milei accused Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva of being a “thief” and a “delinquent” (違法者) among other things. Lula is seeking reelection and will run against Sen. Flávio Bolsonaro, whose family has many ties with the Trump administration. 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 opens lower The Taiwan Stock Exchange opened 81 points lower this morning. Opening turnover reached 6.77 billion N-T dollars. Taiwan shares followed other Asian markets lower as oil prices rose above 100 U-S dollars a barrel amid growing conflict (衝突) in the Gulf. U-S stocks also fell overnight as higher oil prices worried investors. The S&P 500 lost 1.2 percent, the Dow fell 1 percent, and the Nasdaq dropped 2.2 percent. Traffic controls possible as Noul approaches The Directorate General of Highways says traffic controls (交通管制) may be introduced on five highway sections. These include the Southern Cross-Island Highway and the East Coast Highway. The announcement comes after the Central Weather Administration issued a sea warning for Tropical Storm Noul. Noul is the 12th tropical storm of this year's season. The highways agency also activated its emergency response team (緊急應變小組) at 7 this morning. Officials said mountain roads could become blocked (受阻的、無法通行的) or damaged during the storm. Traffic controls will be changed based on the latest weather reports and road conditions. MAC to cancel citizenship of China-born organizer The Mainland Affairs Council says it will cancel the Taiwan citizenship (公民身分、國籍) of a China-born woman convicted (被判有罪的) of working for Beijing in Taiwan. Zhou Man-zhi became a Taiwan citizen through marriage in 2004. Earlier this week, the Supreme Court confirmed her eight-year prison sentence (監禁刑期) for breaking the National Security Act. The court found that Zhou tried to develop two groups for marriage immigrants in Taiwan. It said she acted for China-based organizations controlled by the Chinese Communist Party. Trump links Saudi nuclear deal to Israel ties U-S President Donald Trump says a civilian nuclear cooperation agreement (合作協議) with Saudi Arabia can only move forward if the kingdom establishes relations (建立關係) with Israel. Saudi Arabia has long refused to join the agreements without a clear path toward an independent (獨立) Palestinian state. Sagher Meghani reports. Human Rights Watch criticizes Indian police Human Rights Watch is calling on India's government to investigate police actions against student protesters in New Delhi. The group says security forces used unnecessary and excessive force (過度武力), including tear gas (催淚瓦斯) and batons, against mostly peaceful protesters. The criticism comes as Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government has offered to hold talks with protest leaders. The protesters are demanding that the country's education minister resign (辭職). India is now ranked as the country with the highest risk of civil unrest (社會動盪) on a major international index. The number of people joining protests has more than doubled over the past year. Neha Poonia reports from New Delhi. Diplomats consider removing ICC prosecutor Diplomats are preparing to vote on whether to remove the chief prosecutor (首席檢察官) of the International Criminal Court. The vote follows findings of sexual misconduct (性行為不當). The prosecutor is also banned from entering the U-S and is under U-S sanctions. The sanctions (制裁) are linked to the court's investigation of Israeli officials over the conflict in Gaza. Molly Quell has the latest. 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 73 points higher this morning at 44,899. Turnover reached 7.3 billion N-T dollars. The market bounced back on Wednesday, led by chip and technology shares. The gains came after the Philadelphia Semiconductor Index rose 5.21 percent overnight, as major chipmakers (晶片製造商) and other A-I-related companies gained in the U-S. Foreign minister repeats South China Sea position Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung has repeated Taiwan's claims in the South China Sea. However, he said the Lai administration is not actively pushing those claims. His comments come as tensions continue between China and the Philippines in the disputed waters (爭議海域). Speaking at a legislative hearing on the government's South China Sea policy, Lin said Taiwan's claims over islands in the area have not changed. He said Taiwan's position is based on four principles (原則). These include solving disputes peacefully under international law, including Taiwan in international talks, protecting freedom of navigation (航行自由) and air travel, and sharing regional resources. Possible tropical storm could affect Taiwan this weekend The Central Weather Administration says a tropical depression (熱帶性低氣壓) east of the Philippines could become a tropical storm as early as today. The weather system could reach waters near Taiwan this weekend. A sea warning (海上警報) may be issued as it moves through the Bashi Channel and into the South China Sea. The tropical depression is about 1,400 kilometers east-southeast of Eluanbi, Taiwan's southernmost point. It is moving northwest at 27 kilometers per hour. If it becomes a tropical storm, it will be named Noul. It would be the 12th named storm of this year's Pacific typhoon season. US signs agreement with Saudi Arabia on uranium enrichment  The U-S has signed an agreement with Saudi Arabia on the kingdom's civilian (民用的) nuclear energy program. The deal could allow Saudi Arabia to develop the ability to enrich uranium (濃縮鈾). The Trump administration has released few details about the agreement. However, it could lead to the construction of a uranium enrichment center after a joint U-S-Saudi study. The U-S Department of Energy says the peaceful nuclear agreement will also give American companies greater access to Saudi Arabia's nuclear energy program. Major wildfire burns in central Spain Firefighters in central Spain are battling a major wildfire (野火、森林大火) in Guadalajara. The fire has burned more than 32,000 hectares (公頃) of land. Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez visited the area on Wednesday and called for political parties to work together against climate change. He said climate change is a scientific issue, not a political one. The Guadalajara fire is one of the largest in Spain's history. It comes less than two weeks after another fire in southern Spain killed 13 people. A heat wave is making firefighting more difficult, with temperatures reaching 42 degrees. Other European countries are also facing extreme heat and wildfires. Police station opens at Hitler's birthplace in Austria Austria has opened a police station in the house where Adolf Hitler was born. The Nazi leader was born in the former inn (以前的旅館) in April 1889. For years, Austrian officials debated what to do with the 17th-century building. They wanted to stop it from becoming a place where neo-Nazis would gather. The building has now been refurbished (翻修), and its outside appearance has been changed. The government first announced plans to turn it into a police station in 2019. Police musicians performed at the opening ceremony. Louvre reopens Apollo Gallery after jewel theft The Louvre Museum in Paris has reopened its Apollo Gallery. The gallery (展廳、畫廊) had been closed after crown jewels (王室珠寶) worth more than 100 million U-S dollars were stolen during a daytime robbery last October. The AP's Alex Turnbull 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. PLA helicopter crosses Taiwan Strait median line The Ministry of National Defense says a Chinese military helicopter was detected crossing the median line of the Taiwan Strait median line on Monday. Officials say the helicopter and a drone were detected between 10:20AM and 7:40PM on Monday. Chieh Chung, a researcher at the Institute for National Defense and Security Research, says he believes it is the first time a Chinese military helicopter has been detected crossing the median line. Chieh says that represents a new form of "gray-zone" operation. Defense officials have not said whether the detected helicopter was a shipborne aircraft (艦載機) or had been dispatched from a nearby Army aviation base along China's coast. Taiwan enters new COVID-19 epidemic phase: CDC Taiwan has officially entered a new COVID-19 epidemic phase after more than 47 hundred people sought treatment for the disease during July 12-18. The Centers for Disease Control says that figure marks a 66.5 percent increase from the previous week. Officials say Taiwan has sufficient supplies of antiviral medications and vaccines to respond to the outbreak. She said the NB.1.8.1 variant has remained the dominant strain in Taiwan for the past four weeks. The most common symptoms include sore throat, cough, nasal congestion (鼻塞) or a runny nose, fever, fatigue, headache and muscle aches. COVID-19 activity is also increasing in China, Hong Kong, Japan and South Korea, Tseng said. Taipei retains** 14th place in global student city rankings** Taipei ranked 14th in the U.K.-based Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) Best Student Cities 2027 rankings. The rankings were based on indicators including university rankings, desirability, affordability, student mix and employer activity. QS noted that Taiwan's ranked cities performed particularly well for affordability (可負擔性), with all placing among the world's top 30. But Taiwan's cities lagged in employer activity, which measures how strongly employers associate a city with producing high-quality graduates. Globally, Seoul topped the 2027 rankings, followed by Tokyo, London and Melbourne. Munich and Sydney tied for fifth, ahead of Paris, Berlin, Vienna and Zurich. US STRIKES IRAN FOR TENTH CONSECUTIVE DAY A 10th straight day of attacks between the United States and Iran across the Middle East has overshadowed (使蒙上陰影) diplomatic efforts in Pakistan to salvage an interim ceasefire deal that collapsed earlier this month. US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth says the Iran war has cost $37.5 billion, so far. It is now unclear what new arrangement might be reached to end the war… which has turned into a battle for control over the Strait of Hormuz… Ed Donahue reports on the mood from the White House. France social media ban French lawmakers have approved a bill banning children under 15 from using social media. The move makes France the first country in the European Union to pass a blanket ban (全面禁令) on platforms as concerns grow worldwide over the harmful effects of digital content on kids. Both chambers of the Parliament voted Tuesday in favor of the measure, a flagship initiative of French President Emmanuel Macron’s second term. The bill also bans the use of mobile phones in high schools. 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 117-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 42,566 on turnover of 3.9-billion N-T. The market extended is losses on Monday from a session earlier amid fears over further volatility after a recent strong showing. Analysts say investors continued to cut their holdings in semiconductor stocks, reversing an initial upturn after the tech-heavy Seoul market continued to move lower … …. but Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing appeared resilient on bargain hunting to lend some support to the broader market. Former-TSMC manager indicted over alleged bid to leak secrets to China The Intellectual Property Prosecutors' Office has indicted a former Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing executive for allegedly attempting to leak the chipmaker's core technologies to China. According to prosecutors, the former deputy manager has been charged with violating (違反) the National Security Act and the Trade Secrets Act. Prosecutors have requested a seven-year prison sentence - arguing that the former T-S-M-C employees actions threatened Taiwan's technological advantage. The executive made unauthorized copies of classified and general trade-secret documents belonging to T-S-M-C and took them home with the intention of using them in China. Prosecutors say T-S-M-C detected the irregularities through an internal investigation and recovered all of the copied documents before any technology was transferred. New elevated walkway opens at Minquan Bridge in Taipei An elevated pedestrian walkway connected to (連接到) the Minquan Bridge in Taipei has opened. Speaking at the opening ceremony, Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an said it's part of a broader renovation project designed to bolster the bridge's resistance to earthquakes and floods while also improving the area's recreational facilities and pedestrian-friendly urban environment. Construction of the walkway began in August of last year and was completed on May 28. The walkway features a lightweight steel structure and circular viewing platforms overlooking the Keelung River. Houthis Announce Maritime Embargo Against Saudi Arabia Yemen's Iranian-backed Houthi rebels have announced a maritime embargo (禁運) against Saudi Arabia. Monday's decision comes in retaliation for a blockade on Yemen and a recent attack on Sanaa International Airport. The embargo affects the Bab al-Mandeb strait, a crucial waterway for global trade and gateway to the Red Sea as Saudi Arabia seeks an alternative to the Iran-gripped Strait of Hormuz. The blockade raises fears of renewed conflict in the region. Saudi Arabia has not responded. This comes as the British military said a tanker came under attack early Tuesday in the Strait of Hormuz off Oman, the latest assault to target shipping in the strategic waterway. The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations center said the ship reported over the radio it had been hit by an unknown projectile. Two other ships were attacked in the strait over the last day, with Iran’ paramilitary Revolutionary Guard claiming those assaults. Ex-Mexican drug lord Ismael ‘El** Mayo’ Zambada denounces violence as he's **sentenced to life in prison A former drug kingpin is sentenced to life in prison. AP correspondent Jennifer King 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 121-points this morning from Friday's close, at 42,793 on turnover of 15.5-billion N-T. The market saw its biggest single-day drop on record last Friday -- tumbling just over 2,950-points -- as a sell-off in artificial intelligence-related shares dragged Wall Street lower and weighed on global equities. President Lai honors F-16V pilot who died in January training accident President Lai Ching-te has presented a posthumous presidential citation (追授獎項) honoring Air Force pilot Hsin Po-yi. Hsin died after his F-16V fighter jet crashed during a nighttime training mission off of Hualien in January. Hsin's father, Hsin Chin-yu, accepted the citation from Lai at a ceremony. Hsin served with the Air Force's Hualien-based 5th Tactical Composite Wing and was posthumously promoted from captain to major and awarded the Order of Loyalty and Valor. Hsin's F-16V fighter jet disappeared from radar on the evening of January 6 on a routine raining mission shortly after he reported becoming separated from the lead aircraft while flying through clouds. The aircraft's flight data recorder was recovered in March. Taiwan's students shine at international Biology, Chemistry Olympiads Taiwan students have ranked first and third, respectively, in gold medal tallies, at the International Biology Olympiad and the International Chemistry Olympiad. The students won four gold medals at the Biology Olympiad and three golds and one silver at the Chemistry Olympiad. Both events took place in Vilnius, Lithuania, According to the Ministry of Education, Taiwan sent students from the Taipei Municipal Chien Kuo High School, the Taipei First Girls High School the Taichung Municipal Taichung First Senior High School to the event. Taiwan's four-gold haul topped the medal table among 78 participating countries and 302 contestants. US STRIKES ABADAN AS WASHINGTON FACES QUESTIONS OVER MILITARY READINESS FOR WIDER IRAN CONFLICT The United States struck targets on the outskirts of the Iranian city of Abadan on Sunday evening, extending what has now been more than a week of consecutive American strikes against Iran. The latest attack came as the White House faces accusations (指控) of sending mixed signals on its strategy — having reimposed sanctions on Iranian oil exports after initially lifting them under a memorandum of understanding that now appears to have collapsed. Kate Fisher reports from Washington. Nigeria UNICEF Warns of Child Malnutrition Health workers in northern Nigeria say more children are relapsing into malnutrition and cite knock-on effects from the war in the Middle East. The region is already under pressure from an insurgency crisis. The conflict in the Middle East has worsened food security for millions, especially children. UNICEF warns that if the war continues, millions more children could fall into poverty. The war has also affected fertilizer supplies and prices, threatening the planting season and worsening the fate (命運) of mostly farming communities in northern Nigeria. Hungary President Signs to End his Term Hungary's president has signed a constitutional amendment ending his term, resolving a dispute with the new government. Prime Minister Péter Magyar, who defeated Viktor Orbán in April, had urged Tamás Sulyok to resign, accusing him of failing to oppose Orbán's antidemocratic actions. When Sulyok refused, Magyar's party passed an amendment for his immediate removal. Sulyok signed it on the final day before the deadline. His term officially ends today. Magyar's government has been dismantling (拆解) Orbán's influence by removing appointees and making judicial reforms. It also plans to nominate a new president soon. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _. －－－－以下為 SoundOn 動態廣告－－－－ 準備賣房嗎？ 即日起至12月31日， 把房屋專任委託給台南住商不動產，即可參加「好友五吉」抽獎活動，賣房抽五機~有機會抽中最新 iPhone 18！ 錦上添花, 好運大獎拿不完! 詳情請洽台南住商任一加盟店。 https://sofm.pse.is/9erfpz -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 391-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 45,234 on turnover of $17.4-billion N-T. Shares in Taiwan closed little changed Thursday after contract chipmaker TSMC rebounded from the day's low amid continued enthusiasm (熱情) over artificial intelligence (AI), helping the broader market recover most of its earlier losses, dealers said. Taiwan's freedom, prosperity indicies rise in annual report Taiwan's freedom and prosperity (繁榮) indicies have risen in an annual international report. Taiwan ranked 21st in the freedom index and 19th in the prosperity index out of 171 countries surveyed. Both those indices mark improvements from last year. But around the world, political freedom and the rule of the law declined overall, while prosperity growth slowed. The only country to beat out Taiwan for freedom was Japan at number 14… but Singapore was the only one to beat Taiwan for prosperity. The indices from the Atlantic Council were established in 2022 and have been published annually since. (AH-CNA) Qatar Warns Public amid Iranian Missiles Qatar is warning the public to take shelter as a barrage of Iranian missiles targets the nation. People heard explosions overhead early today as air defenses fired to intercept the missiles. Iran earlier targeted Bahrain and Kuwait over U.S. airstrikes hitting bridges in the Islamic Republic overnight. Qatar is a key mediator with Pakistan in trying to reach an end to the Iran war. This comes as the United States intensified its strikes on Iran, hitting targets farther north. American forces also fired into a ship they accused of trying to break a U.S. naval blockade (封鎖) on the Islamic Republic. Iran retaliated Thursday with missile and drone fire targeting U.S. allies Bahrain, Jordan and Kuwait. The interim ceasefire agreed to last month has collapsed and the region has endured days of back-and-forth attacks by the U.S. and Iran as they battle for control of the Strait of Hormuz. CANADIAN WILDFIRE SMOKE** CHOKES 17 US STATES AS DETROIT'S AIR QUALITY INDEX** HITS DOUBLE THE HAZARDOUS THRESHOLD Canadian wildfire smoke has worsened sharply across the United States on Thursday Air quality alerts now covering at least 17 states and some 115 million people. The densest plumes are pushing south from the Midwest toward Washington and New York, with forecasters warning conditions in the capital could deteriorate (惡化) by Friday. Jagruti Dave reports from Washington. Japan to Pass Law Insisting on MaleOnly Imperial Heir A law set to pass Friday by Japan’s parliament could doom its 1,500-year-old hereditary institution by insisting that only men can be emperor, sparking worry about the shrinking, fast-aging imperial family. The revisions include adoption of distant male relatives to father future heirs and allowing princesses to keep their royal status after marrying commoners. Emperor Naruhito’s 24-year-old daughter is hugely popular, and many Japanese want her to be his successor. Princess Aiko is ineligible because she is a woman. Japan’s male-only succession rule means the emperor’s teenage nephew and second in line, Prince Hisahito, will probably be the heir. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _. －－－－以下為 SoundOn 動態廣告－－－－ 準備賣房嗎？ 即日起至12月31日， 把房屋專任委託給台南住商不動產，即可參加「好友五吉」抽獎活動，賣房抽五機~有機會抽中最新 iPhone 18！ 錦上添花, 好運大獎拿不完! 詳情請洽台南住商任一加盟店。 https://sofm.pse.is/9f5mf3 -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 120-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 45,512 on turnover of $9.1 billion N-T. Shares in Taiwan bounced back Wednesday from a slump a session earlier, with buying sparked by a rally in the United States overnight after slower-than-expected June inflation. Contract chipmaker TSMC gained only 0.83 percent. Its consolidation capped the Taiex's upturn and limited turnover. Nontech stocks also attracted buying in line with the broader market. Petrochemical stocks continued to move higher, led by the four major entities of the conglomerate Formosa Plastics Corp. National Forest pet bans extended to 2028' The Forestry and Nature Conservation Agency has announced that it will continue prohibiting visitors from bringing cats, dogs, and other mammals into 19 forest recreation areas. That's in an effort to prevent the spread of rabies. The government says that it's extending (延長) the ban beyond its original expiration date at the end of the month, citing a lack of reduction in the geographic range where rabies has been detected in wildlife. The restriction covering 19 national forest areas will be extended for 2 years, through July 2028. The agency first imposed the ban in August 2013 after several ferret-badgers tested positive for rabies and has extended the measure several times since then.' But some pets will be allowed under certain conditions at Neidong, Chihnan, and Jhihben, as well as three plains-level forest parks. US Ends Overnight Iran Strikes The US military says it has ended a wave of overnight airstrikes that rattled (使慌亂、使緊張) parts of northern Iran for the first time. Iranian state media reported explosions around Iran’s capital, Tehran, for the first time of the latest attacks over control of the Strait of Hormuz. It also reported American attacks targeted Iran’s Semnan province, home to ballistic missile production and its space program. There was no immediate word on casualties or damage from the attacks. US FACES STATUTORY DE**ADLINE TO IMPOSE 25 PERCENT TARIFF ON THOUSANDS OF **BRAZILIAN GOODS The United States Trade Representative faces a statutory deadline on Wednesday to finalise, modify or abandon a proposed twenty-five per cent tariff on thousands of Brazilian goods, after months of negotiations that officials in Brasília have described as largely unproductive (沒有成效的). The tariff, imposed under Section 301 of US trade law, would target more than four thousand products worth some fifteen billion dollars a year, though key Brazilian exports including beef, coffee and aircraft parts are expected to be exempt. Brazil's government says it is bracing for the tariff to land, but has not ruled out a last-minute diplomatic push. Nick Harper reports from Washington. UK Gov Announces Social Media** Curfew Plans** The British government has announced plans for a six-hour social media curfew from midnight for 16- and 17-year-olds. They can override this default setting. On Wednesday, the Labour government also said features like autoplay videos will be switched off by default (預設) for older teenagers. This follows a recent social media ban for under-16s. The UK's online safety minister says a pilot program showed reduced social media usage and improved sleep. Critics argue the curfew may not be effective, and a leading children's charity has called for stronger measures to address addictive design features. The measures, which are one of the final acts of the government of Prime Minister Keir Starmer, will have to be legislated upon. It is widely believed that his expected successor Andy Burnham will follow through with the plans. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _. －－－－以下為 SoundOn 動態廣告－－－－ 準備賣房嗎？ 即日起至12月31日， 把房屋專任委託給台南住商不動產，即可參加「好友五吉」抽獎活動，賣房抽五機~有機會抽中最新 iPhone 18！ 錦上添花, 好運大獎拿不完! 詳情請洽台南住商任一加盟店。 https://sofm.pse.is/9erfq5 -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 113-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 44,851 on turnover of $9.9-billion N-T. Shares in Taiwan came under pressure Tuesday, falling below 44,000 points at one point, before rebounding in the last 90 minutes of the session to cap the losses. But while most non-tech stocks were also in the doldrums, the petrochemical sector outperformed the market on a spike in international crude oil prices amid renewed unease in the Middle East, which could boost product prices. Heat and Afternoon Thunderstorms Over Next Few Days Forecasters are warning of intense heat and severe afternoon thunderstorms across Taiwan over the next several days. The Central Weather Administration today issued high-temperature alerts for eight counties and cities. Officials say Changhua, Yunlin, Tainan, and Hualien are under an orange alert… meaning temperatures could repeatedly exceed (超過) 36 degrees Celsius. Taipei, New Taipei, Chiayi, and Taitung are under a yellow alert. Taitung also faces a high risk of hot, dry foehn winds. Meteorologist Wu Der-rong says tropical disturbances in the South China Sea and near the Philippines are bringing large amounts of moisture toward Taiwan, creating highly unstable conditions. Wu warns that severe convective thunderstorms will develop in mountainous areas every afternoon through July 21st, and te storms will likely trigger lightning, strong winds, and flash flooding in low-lying areas. (NS) China Senior CCP Member Expelled Chinese state media says a senior official has been expelled from the ruling Communist Party. Ma Xingrui is one of three members of the current Politburo purged in leader Xi Jinping's anti-corruption campaign, alongside two military generals. Analysts see the campaign as a tool to enforce loyalty to Xi and root out (根除) corruption. Party authorities concluded that Ma committed violations including accepting gifts and using his position to help others. The 66-year-old Ma was previously the Communist Party chief of Xinjiang and governor of Guangdong province. Gold trader gets time served in Iran sanctions case that strained US-Turkey relations A Turkish businessman charged in a conspiracy to help Iran evade (逃避) sanctions gets no additional prison time after helping U.S. investigators. The AP's Jennifer King reports. Spain Gibraltar Border Fence** Dismantled** The fence separating Gibraltar from Spain has been dismantled, easing travel for thousands who cross daily. This change, which goes into effect today, follows years of post-Brexit negotiations between the European Union and the United Kingdom over Gibraltar, a British Overseas Territory that is also claimed by Spain. On Tuesday, the U.K. and the E.U. signed an agreement securing Gibraltar’s economic future. The deal de facto brings Gibraltar into the EU’s Schengen free travel area. Gibraltar officials say live facial recognition (臉部辨識) cameras are now set up at entry points. When Britain left the EU in 2020, the relationship between Gibraltar and the bloc had been left unresolved. In 2025, the EU and U.K. announced an agreement on those issues, with the two sides and Gibraltar’s government signing a treaty Tuesday that eases border crossings. 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 16-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 45,364 on turnover of $8.7-billion N-T. Shares in Taiwan closed little changed Monday with an initial significant upturn eroded as investors rushed to lock in earlier gains in the wake of losses on other regional markets. But analysts say TSMC appeared resilient and posted gains to lend support to the broader market, with investors also expecting the company to deliver positive leads from its Thursday investor conference. New partnership to boost protection of Penghu marine park The Marine National Park Headquarters has signed a cooperation agreement with TIPC Marine Corporation to strengthen maritime patrols in the waters of South Penghu Marine National Park. Returning port service vessels will carry park personnel (人員) on patrol missions during their return voyages, increasing surveillance of protected waters. The partnership will also establish a system for sharing vessel tracking data, images and patrol records to help detect suspected illegal fishing, coral reef damage and other violations. Officials say the partnership will expand patrol coverage and create a stronger marine patrol network, helping better protect the national park's marine ecosystem. The two sides also plan to work together on marine conservation education and public awareness programs. (IG) UAE: Iran Attacks Tankers Leaving One Dead The United Arab Emirates says Iran attacked two tankers in the Strait of Hormuz, killing one mariner and wounding eight others. The Emirati Defense Ministry said Iran launched two cruise missiles at the tankers Mombasa and Al Bahiyah. The attacks set both tankers ablaze, though the fires were extinguished (撲滅). Bahrain also came under renewed attack early Tuesday morning as Iran retaliated over the latest round of U.S. airstrikes. Bahrain sounded its missile alert siren, urging the public to seek shelter. There was no word on any damage or casualties from the attack. US Minnesota prosecutors obtain long withheld evidence in investigation into protest shooting deaths From the US… Minnesota prosecutors have obtain (獲得) long withheld evidence in the state investigation of ICE related shootings in Minnesota. AP correspondent Ed Donahue reports Spain PM Faces Backlash for** France World Cup Team Comments** Former Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy is facing backlash for comments about France's World Cup team ahead of their semifinal match. He claimed the team "does not have any French players," which leaders in France and Spain have called racist. Rajoy made the remarks in a column for a Spanish outlet. France's foreign minister and the president of the French soccer federation condemned (譴責) the comments, calling them racist. Spain's ruling Socialist government and Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez swiftly condemned the comments. It's not the first time France's team has faced racism during this year's World Cup. Earlier this month, France captain and star player Kylian Mbappé condemned a Paraguayan senator over remarks she made following Paraguay’s loss to France in the round of 16. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _. －－－－以下為 SoundOn 動態廣告－－－－ 準備賣房嗎？ 即日起至12月31日， 把房屋專任委託給台南住商不動產，即可參加「好友五吉」抽獎活動，賣房抽五機~有機會抽中最新 iPhone 18！ 錦上添花, 好運大獎拿不完! 詳情請洽台南住商任一加盟店。 https://sofm.pse.is/9erfq4 -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 146-points this morning from Thursday's close, at 45,500 on turnover of $14.8-billion N-T. Shares in Taiwan closed lower Thursday after an earlier upturn was reversed when market sentiment became spooked by renewed geopolitical concerns as the United States and Iran launched fresh attacks. Selling focused on select large-cap liquid tech stocks as contract chipmaker TSMC faced heavier pressure, pushing down the Taiex. 86 Indonesian students awarded Taiwan scholarships Eighty-six Indonesian students have been awarded Taiwanese government scholarships to study in Taiwan this year. Before leaving, they attended a pre-departure orientation in Jakarta held by Taiwan’s representative office there, covering student visas, residency procedures and campus life. Taiwan's representative to Indonesia, Bruce Hung, said more than 19 thousand Indonesian students are currently studying in Taiwan, making Indonesia the second-largest source of international students after Vietnam. Hung said Taiwan offers a strong Mandarin-learning environment and diverse (多種多樣的) higher education opportunities, and encouraged the students to learn more about the island's AI and semiconductor industries during their studies. Thailand Pub Fire Leaves Dozens Dead and Injured A huge fire that engulfed a pub in Bangkok overnight has killed at least 27 people and injured dozens more. Rescuers said the fire was reported around midnight Sunday, and firefighters brought the blaze under control early Monday. Footage shared online by first responders shows a huge blaze raging and plumes coming out of the front door of the pub in the northern part of the Thai capital. Thailand's prime minister told reporters at the scene that several people have been taken to the hospital. He says a musician who was performing at the pub told him that he saw smoke coming out of a circuit breaker (斷路器) near the stage before the power went out, then an explosion was heard and thick smoke quickly filled the venue Many of victims were found at the restrooms at the back of the pub. US Launches Strikes on Iranian Military Sites The United States Central Command has launched fresh strikes on Iranian military sites near the Strait of Hormuz, as Washington presses Tehran to guarantee safe passage for commercial shipping through the waterway. The escalation comes as the US political landscape shifts following the death of Senator Lindsey Graham, a prominent (著名的) foreign policy hawk who advocated for military action against Iran and strong ties with European allies. Jagruti Dave has the story from Washington. Syria NewlyElected Parliament Holds First Session Syria's newly elected parliament has held its first session since the ouster of former President Bashar Assad. The reconvening of parliament aims to restart the legislative process after years of conflict and autocratic rule. Two-thirds of the 210-member People's Assembly were elected while one-third were appointed by interim President Ahmed al-Sharaa. The new parliament will serve a 30-month term. The launch indicates progress in drafting new laws as Syria recovers from decades of Assad's rule and a deadly war. Legislators elected Abdul Hamid al-Awak as speaker. Al-Awak, a former judge, defected from the Assad government early in the uprising (起義、叛亂). That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _. －－－－以下為 SoundOn 動態廣告－－－－ 準備賣房嗎？ 即日起至12月31日， 把房屋專任委託給台南住商不動產，即可參加「好友五吉」抽獎活動，賣房抽五機~有機會抽中最新 iPhone 18！ 錦上添花, 好運大獎拿不完! 詳情請洽台南住商任一加盟店。 https://sofm.pse.is/9erfpy -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening  The Tai-Ex opened 71-points higher this morning from yesterday's close, at 45,805, on turnover of 9.8 billion N-T. The market rose again on Wednesday after falling a day earlier.  Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing got support from last-minute buying near the end of trading. Lawmakers call for officials to resign over contaminated cooking oil case A Legislative committee has passed a motion (動議) calling for (要求) Premier Cho Jung-tai, Health Minister Shih Chung-liang and Food and Drug Administration head Chiang Chih-kang to step down (辭職) and take responsibility for the latest cooking oil contamination case. The motion was passed during a meeting of the legislative Social Welfare and Environmental Hygiene Committee. The committee asked health, education and economics officials to report on food safety measures following the discovery of excessive levels (含量過高) of a carcinogen (致癌物) in soybean oil produced by Central Union Oil Corp. Opposition lawmakers criticized the Lai administration for changing its policy on the issue several times. The motion also asks all three officials to apologize (道歉) to the public. Lai touts ties with Guatemala  President Lai Ching-te says Taiwan will build stronger ties with Guatemala. He says his administration will encourage (鼓勵) more Taiwanese companies to use Guatemala as a base (以…為基地) for entering Latin American markets. The statement came as Lai held talks with the visiting president of Guatemala's Congress, Luis Alberto Contreras Colindres. According to Lai, closer ties between Taiwan and Guatemala will bring more business opportunities for both sides. Lai also said Guatemalan exports to Taiwan have reached 130 million US dollars for two years in a row. He said Guatemala is quickly becoming Taiwan's largest supplier of sugar and fourth-largest supplier of coffee. US launches second, larger wave of strikes on Iran as Trump says ceasefire is over The United States has launched a second, larger wave of airstrikes (空襲) against Iran. The strikes targeted (以…為目標) coastal radar installations and anti-ship missile sites along the country's southeastern coast. US President Donald Trump declared the ceasefire with Tehran "over" while attending the NATO summit in Ankara. He warned of further escalation if Iran continued to target commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. Iran's Revolutionary Guard responded by launching missiles and drones at dozens of American military sites in Bahrain and Kuwait. But reporter Kate Fisher in Washington says Trump later seemed to leave a small chance for talks to restart (重新開始). China allocates funds for disaster relief China has allocated (撥款) millions in relief (救助) funding for disaster-hit areas after severe storms and a deadly landslide. The central government has provided 7.4 million US dollars to repair infrastructure (修復基礎設施) in Hubei province. It has also provided other funds to rebuild homes and move residents to safer places. Eleven people died in thunderstorms and tornadoes on Monday. Gansu province will receive 4.4 million US dollars after a landslide killed 21 forestry workers. Earlier funding was given to Guangxi, where flooding from Tropical Storm Maysak has caused six deaths and forced 130,000 people to leave their homes. Heavy rain is still hitting parts of China, and more rain from a typhoon is expected over the weekend. Canada PM Visiting Saudi Arabia Canada's prime minister is visiting Saudi Arabia. It is the first trip by a Canadian leader to the kingdom in 26 years. The visit is aimed at expanding (擴大) Canada's economic ties beyond the United States. Today, Mark Carney will meet Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who is Saudi Arabia's de facto ruler. He will also speak at the Saudi Arabia-Canada Investment Forum. The trip shows Canada's effort to diversify (多元化) trade as it faces US tariff threats. Saudi Arabia is also looking for foreign investment as it tries to move its economy beyond oil. Canada and Saudi Arabia restored full diplomatic ties in 2023, ending a dispute over human rights criticism. 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 45-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 45,524 on turnover of 8.7-billion N-T. The market tumbled on Tuesday as investors continued to rotate funds out of the electronics sector amid worries over valuations (估價). MOHW expands contaminated cooking oil recall Health Minister Shih Chung-liang has announced the widening of a recall order for products linked to contaminated cooking oil produced by Central Union Oil. The latest move means that all processed foods made using the affected oil should have been removed from store shelves by midnight. It overrides a previous order that only products containing more than 20-per cent of the affected oil needed to be recalled (撤回) and removed from stores. According to the health ministry, all affected secondary products must now be removed from the market as a precaution and can only return to store shelves after manufacturers provide test results confirming they are safe for human consumption. Taoyuan Airport sees record number of passengers in first half of year The Taoyuan International Airport reportedly handled some 25.78-million passengers in the first half of this year. That figure is a new record for the period. Reports says the airport saw passenger volume rise by 9-per cent from the same period of last year. According to the airport operator, it firmly (牢牢) believes that passenger volume for the whole of this year could reach 50-million. Summer travel demand is expected to peak this month and next month, when total takeoffs and landings are forecast to reach 46,000. US RETALIATORY STR**IKES HIT IRANIAN PORTS AND MILITARY SITES AFTER IRAN **ATTACKS THREE COMMERCIAL VESSELS IN STRAIT OF HORMUZ The United States has launched retaliatory (報復性) strikes against Iran, hitting port facilities, missile and drone sites, and air defence installations on Tuesday evening — in response to Iranian attacks on three commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. The website Axios reports the American military response far exceeded previous exchanges between the two sides, while Iran's deputy foreign minister has warned Tehran will take decisive measures. Jagruti Dave in Washington says the conflict's impact on oil prices is a growing concern in the United States, particularly with midterm elections on the horizon. Pakistan Cargo Plane Search Continues A Pakistani cargo plane with five crew members is missing after rapidly descending (下降) and losing contact with air traffic controllers. Pakistan’s airport authority reported the incident late Tuesday off the coast of Karachi. The Boeing 737 reported a navigation system problem at 9:18 p.m. local time. Radar data showed it rapidly descending and changing course at about 9:21 p.m. before losing contact about 287 kilometers west of Karachi. Search-and-rescue operations are underway in the Arabian Sea. France Le Pen to Run for Presidency Far-right leader Marine Le Pen says she’ll run for the French presidency next year despite being sentenced to wear a court-ordered electronic monitor for embezzlement. The decision by the 57-year-old veteran of three presidential races sets up a fourth campaign like no other. She potentially could be seeking votes while subject to electronic monitoring and a judge’s determination (判定) of how, and for how long, the punishment is applied. Le Pen said she will appeal Tuesday's ruling to France’s highest 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 slightly (稍微) lower this morning at 46,537. Turnover stood at 11-billion N.T. dollars. The market closed lower Monday after an early rise. Investors were worried that tech stocks had become too expensive. That led to a large selloff (拋售) in the tech sector. MAC claims China may be involved in attack on Japanese commentator The Mainland Affairs Council says China may have been involved in an attack on Japanese commentator (評論員) Akio Yaita. A Hong Kong man was arrested on suspicion of punching Yaita after he gave a speech in Taichung. The attack led to claims on social media that China may have been involved. The council says it warned other agencies that the case "could involve transnational repression (跨國鎮壓)." Yaita is the CEO of the Indo-Pacific Strategic Thinktank. He had just finished giving a speech at an an event organized by the Spring Rain Foundation at a hotel in Taichung when he was punched in the face as he was making a phone call Keelung to revoke preschool's license over child abuse case The Keelung City Government says a preschool may lose its license (執照) as early as tomorrow over a child abuse (虐待) case. Officials will review the second stage of the investigation later today. The city has released the names of two teachers found responsible for abuse. The city also filed a criminal complaint last week. Several children at the preschool in Qidu District were found with bruises (瘀青) allegedly caused by abuse. French President visits Syria after Assad's ouster French President Emmanuel Macron has arrived in Syria, becoming the first major Western leader to visit since Bashar al-Assad's ouster (驅逐) in 2024. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy visited in April, but Macron is the first from western Europe or North America. His visit comes during a period of relative calm (相對平靜) in the Middle East after the monthlong war in Iran and Lebanon. Macron is also set to attend a NATO summit (高峰會) in Ankara, Turkey. Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa is also expected to attend the summit and hold a high-profile meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump. Trump's pardons for Jan. 6 rioters don't apply to DC pipe bomb suspect, judge rules A judge says US President Donald Trump’s pardons (赦免) for January 6th rioters do not apply to a suspect in the D.C. pipe bomb case. The case may now move toward trial. Prosecutors say the suspect may have a link to the Capitol riot. But that claim has not yet been tested in court. AP correspondent Ed Donahue reports  Cuba hit by islandwide blackout Cuba has been hit by an islandwide blackout (停電) as fuel supplies (燃料供應) run low. The country’s Electric Union reported the blackout Monday. It says the cause is still under investigation. Fuel has been running out since January, after U.S. President Donald Trump threatened tariffs on countries that sell oil to Cuba. Public transportation has largely stopped, and officials have canceled tens of thousands of surgeries. 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 116-points this morning from Friday's close, at 46,897 on turnover of 10.8-billion N-T. The market ended marginally higher last Friday, after key AI related stocks ended mixed on Wall Street overnight. Tainted oil recall's 20% threshold based on 2017 guidelines Health Minister Shih Chung-liang says the decision to order a precautionary (預防性的) recall of processed foods containing at least 20-per cent carcinogen-tainted cooking oil is based on food safety guidelines established in 2017. The statement comes after the Food and Drug Administration expanded its recall order over soybean salad oil produced by Taichung-based Central Union Oil. The oil was found to contain excessive levels of a carcinogen late last week. The expanded recall covers unprocessed oil sold in its original form, such as soybean salad oil and blended oils; and processed foods containing 20-per cent or more of the affected oil. The contaminated batch totals about 1,300 metric tons and was supplied to three companies before entering the downstream food supply chain. CWA warns of extended heat in 2027 as Taiwan develops tiered response plan The Central Weather Administration says Taiwan is likely to experience a warmer-than-normal winter this year due to strong El Nino effects. According to the administration, the extreme heat likely to extend into the spring and summer of next year. Data shows Taiwan experienced its most severe (劇烈) heat between 2020 and 2021, driven by the combination of an unusually strong subtropical high-pressure system, La Nina conditions and regional sea surface temperature changes. Taipei recorded 100 days with temperatures above 35 degrees Celsius in 2020, the highest annual total since records began. EU Wildfires Hundreds of firefighters are battling wildfires in Portugal, Spain and Greece. Spain and Italy have sent reinforcements to Portugal, where a massive blaze has been burning for more than three days. In central Portugal, over 1,200 firefighters are fighting a fire that has burned 12-thousand hectares since Thursday. Meanwhile, in Greece, authorities have warned residents in parts of the country's second largest city of Thessaloniki about toxic smoke from a wildfire that engulfed a recycling plant. A 76-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of starting the blaze. Greece frequently (頻繁地) suffers devastating wildfires during its hot, dry summers. Trump's administration won'**t seek new bids to repair the Lincoln Memorial **Reflecting Pool The Trump administration says it will not seek new bids (投標) to repair the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. AP correspondent Donna Warder reports. Canada to Choose Sub Contractor Canada is expected today to choose between German and South Korean bids to build a multibillion-dollar fleet (艦隊) of 12 submarines. Germany’s ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems and South Korea’s Hanwha Ocean are competing for the contract to build 12 conventionally (傳統地) powered submarines worth tens of billions of dollars. The widely expected announcement will come just before Carney heads to the NATO summit in Turkey as NATO allies boost defense spending. Carney’s government has pledged to meet NATO’s higher defense spending targets, committing to spend 5% of Canada’s gross domestic product on defense by 2035 after reaching the alliance’s previous 2% benchmark this year. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Tai-ex Opening Financial markets opened with the New Taiwan dollar at 31.92 against the U.S. dollar in the foreign exchange market today.  The NT was down 0.01 from the previous close. The currency traded in a range of NT$31.92 to NT$31.93 per U.S. dollar in early trading. Taipei shares also opened lower… The Taiex was down 199.02 points, and the index started the day at 46,545.14 points.  Turnover at the opening totaled NT$10.134 billion. 1,300 tonnes of tainted cooking oil products recalled The Food and Drug Administration has recalled around 1,300 tonnes of cooking oil products (大豆沙拉油) after they were found to contain excessive levels of a carcinogenic compound. The F-D-A says the affected soy-based cooking oil was produced by Taichung-based Central Union Oil and supplied to three major local food oil companies. The affected oil was sold to the three companies between April 8 and April 10. The F-D-A says the three companies immediately recalled the products after being notified by Central Union of the anomaly. Central Union has been ordered to suspend (停產) production while authorities review its manufacturing processes (生產流程) to determine the cause of the problem. CWA monitoring Typhoon Bavi Typhoon Bavi is now a moderate typhoon (輕度颱風). It is expected to continue intensifying into a strong typhoon by tonight.. and its likely to impact Taiwan later next week. Independent meterologist Wu De Rong describes Bavi as a large and powerful typhoon typical of an El Niño (聖嬰年) year. Wu said Bavi is expected to move west-northwestward reaching waters southeast of Japan's Ryukyu Islands (琉球群島) by the middle of next week. Iran imposes new tanker routes In interntaional news,   Iran’s joint military command is warning that all oil tankers moving through the Strait of Hormuz must use its approved routes or face a “forceful response.”  Ship passage through the vital waterway is continuing to rebound (持續回升), even after Iran attacked two commercial vessels last week. Karen Chammas reports. Vatican excommunicates traditionalists The Vatican has responded aggressively to a traditionalist society that consecrated bishops without the pope’s consent (同意). The Vatican declared that the Society of St. Pius X had formally broken with the Catholic Church and it excommunicated (絕罰) its bishops.  It also warning its faithful they also could face the harsh sanctions.  The Vatican went above and beyond the minimal sanctions foreseen by the church’s canon law to respond to the consecrations Wednesday of four new bishops at the society’s seminary in Switzerland. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Good afternoon, I'm _ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening  The Tai-Ex opened down 185 points this morning from yesterday's close, at 46,833, on turnover of 11.8 billion NT. The market closed sharply (大幅地) higher on Wednesday. The main board rose for a second day. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing ended at the day's highest price, after its American depositary receipts made strong gains in overnight (一夜之間的 / 隔夜的) trading. Presidential Order removes top trade representative from office  The Office of the President has issued a Presidential Order formally remove the government's top trade negotiator from office. The move comes after Premier Cho Jung-tai suspended (停職) Yang Jen-ni on Monday. An investigation (調查) found Yang had bullied her late deputy, Yen Huai-shing, at work. Yen died in March at the age of 53, shortly after resigning from her job as the deputy chief of the Office of Trade Negotiations. A Cabinet report said Yang created a difficult workplace for Yen. Yang has repeatedly denied doing anything wrong. She is threatening to take legal action, saying the case has hurt her reputation (名譽). Philippines extends 14-day visa-free entry for Taiwanese travelers The Philippines has extended (延長) its 14-day visa-free entry program for Taiwan passport holders (護照持有人) until June 30, 2027. The Manila Economic and Cultural Office says the move gives Taiwan passport holders the same special treatment (待遇) they received last year. The office says the extension follows the Philippine government's order to give equal visa-free benefits (好處 / 優惠) to Taiwan. That is because Philippine passport holders can also travel to Taiwan without a visa. The Philippines first allowed Taiwan travelers to enter visa-free for up to 14 days on July 1, 2025. The program was originally set to end on June 30 of this year. Qatar declares 'positive progress' in indirect US-Iran talks Qatar's Foreign Ministry says there has been "positive progress" in indirect (間接的) talks between the United States and Iran in Doha. Mediators (調停人 / 調解人) have been moving between the two sides to discuss issues linked to a memorandum of understanding. US President Donald Trump says denuclearisation is "moving along well." But Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi says official talks have not started yet, and working groups are still being formed. The two sides seem to disagree on more than the main issues. They also disagree on whether important topics have even been discussed. Mitch Mccann reports from New York. Ivory Coast floods kill 59 Floods in Ivory Coast have killed at least 59 people this year, according to a government spokesperson. The announcement came after a Cabinet meeting, where officials discussed the high number of deaths. On Monday, heavy rain caused floods and landslides (土石流 / 山崩) in the capitals of Ghana and Ivory Coast. At least 24 people died. The government urged people to follow safety rules and evacuate (疏散 / 撤離) high-risk areas. The World Meteorological Organization says Africa is one of the parts of the world most at risk from extreme weather. But Africa produces only a small share of the world's greenhouse gas emissions (排放). Rising number of whales spotted off Brazil A conservation (保育) group says humpback whales are now seen more often off Rio de Janeiro. It says their numbers are recovering after years of commercial whaling in the past. The Humpback Whale Project says the population (族群數量) has grown from about 2,000 to 35,000 in 40 years. In 1982, the International Whaling Commission ordered a pause in commercial whaling. That pause began three years later. Between June and November, humpback whales move through Brazilian waters. Their return is helping tourism. Some companies now offer whale-watching trips. 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 108 points this morning from yesterday's close, at 46,234 on turnover of 19.1 billion N-T. The market went solidly higher on Tuesday. It also saw its third-biggest point rise during a trading day. Investors were again interested in big electronics and semiconductor shares. That helped push the main board higher. MOFA stepping up official document security amid negligence accusation The Ministry of Foreign Affairs says it is taking steps to make its official (官方的) document system safer. The statement comes after a Control Yuan report accused the ministry of poor handling of several possible document leaks (洩漏) in 2024 and 2025. Foreign ministry spokesman Hsiao Kuang-wei says the ministry has been checking its electronic document rules. He says it is also working to make the system safer after finding possible leaks of official papers. The Control Yuan report questioned some of the ministry's earlier responses to the leaked documents. Taipei Metro to accept credit cards and mobile pay starting today And, Passengers (乘客) on the Taipei Metro can use credit cards or digital wallets linked to those cards starting today. Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an announced the new payment (付款) service. He said the move is meant to help Taipei follow international trends. The metro operator says it will accept major international and Taiwan credit cards. It will also accept Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay. The change follows the launch (推出) of Q-R code payments in January. That system lets passengers use major electronic payment services to take buses and M-R-T trains in Taipei and New Taipei. Iran refuses direct talks with US in Doha Iran says it will not hold direct talks (直接談判) with the United States in Doha yet. Iran says the current ceasefire agreement must first be fully carried out. Qatar's Foreign Ministry also says Iranian officials and U-S envoy Steve Witkoff will not meet face-to-face on Tuesday. Washington had hoped to use the 60-day talks to pressure Tehran on its nuclear program (核子計畫). But Iran says the main goal is to make sure the U-S-Iran ceasefire continues. Tehran is also calling for a three-country committee to help protect Lebanon's sovereignty as part of the wider peace deal. Nick Harper in Washington says Iran's refusal to talk directly with the American team is making it harder for Washington to deal with the nuclear issue during the 60-day period. Thousands protest immigration in South Africa Thousands of protesters (抗議者) have gathered in South Africa to protest illegal immigration. It is the country's largest protest about migration since 2008. Activists blame migrants (移民) for joblessness and crime. They gave the government until June 30 to remove all migrants staying in the country illegally. But the government rejected the deadline. It says only officials can carry out immigration laws. President Cyril Ramaphosa has called for peaceful protests. Police have sent hundreds of officers to cities such as Johannesburg and Durban to stop violence. Past protests have led to attacks on migrants and damage to property. Thousands of migrants are now leaving South Africa because they fear for their safety (安全). 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 165-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 45,165 on turnover of 12.7-billion N-T. The main board rebounded on Monday from Friday's slump on a mild technical rebound, but turnover still shrank as many investors remain concerned about possible volatility in the local market. Premier suspends his top trade negotiator after bullying probe Premier Cho Jung-tai has suspended the government's top trade negotiator after an investigation found she had engaged in workplace bullying of her late deputy. The move comes after an an investigative committee found that Minister Without Portfolio Jenni Yang bullied Yen Huai-shing. Yen died in March at the age of 53, shortly after resigning (辭職) from her job as the deputy chief of the Office of Trade Negotiations. The investigation found that Yang dismissed Yen's opinions, creating an "offensive and unfriendly" work environment that placed her under mental pressure. Cabinet spokeswoman Michelle Lee says the premier met with Yang before suspending her from her duties. Su Li-yang wins men's singles championship at the Yonex U-S Badminton Openin California And, Taiwan's Su Li-yang has won the men's singles championship at the Yonex U-S Badminton Open in California. Su is currently ranked No. 46 in the men's singles and he beat No. 38 Sri-kanth Kidambi of India 21-15, 16-21, 21-9 at the 17th Badminton World Federation World Tour stop. It was Su's first professional title, following two gold medal wins in B-W-F junior competitions in 2018 and 2019. Su took silver at the Taipei Open in 2023, as well as four runner-up titles at lower-level B-W-F international challenges and series events. Monaco Explosion Injures Three A blast from an explosive device has seriously injured three people at a residential building in Monaco. Authorities said the attacker fled to neighboring France. Monaco officials say the explosion occurred around 9 p.m. at the entryway (入口通道) of a residence near the French border, injuring two adults and a child who were taken to hospitals in France. French and Ukrainian media reported that a Ukrainian construction tycoon and his family were those injured. One of the reports says he was targeted by Ukrainian sanctions in 2023 for ties to Russia. French and Monaco authorities are searching for the attacker, whose motive is under investigation. SUPREME COURT REFUSES TO HEAR** TRUMP'S APPEAL AGAINST E. JEAN CARROLL SEXUAL** ABUSE VERDICT The United States Supreme Court has refused to hear US President Donald Trump's appeal against a jury finding that he sexually abused and defamed (誹謗) the writer E. Jean Carroll, leaving a five-million-dollar civil judgment intact. None of the nine justices — including three appointed by President Trump himself — issued a written dissent, and Carroll's lawyer said the ruling ends the president's effort to avoid accountability. President Trump responded on his Truth Social platform, calling the case fake and vowing to continue fighting what he described as lawfare. David Smith, Washington Bureau Chief for The Guardian, says the ruling will shape how history regards the president. 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 23-points this morning from Friday's close, at 44,594 on turnover of 10.5-billion N-T. The market suffered its third steepest point fall in history on Friday, as it was dragged down by the bellwether electronics sector after heavy losses among tech stocks on Wall Street overnight. Water level meter installed at Hualien barrier lake to improve monitoring The Forestry and Nature Conservation Agency has installed a water level meter at the barrier lake on the Wanli River in Hualien. The agency says it will allow authorities to receive water-level data every 10 minutes to improve monitoring (監控) and emergency response times. According to the agency, data is now being transmitted to the Ministry of Agriculture's Forest Disaster Prevention Response and Barrier Lake Monitoring System. Installation of the water level meter comes amid concerns of the barrier lake overflowing. The Hualien County government has urged the public to stay away from the Wanli River, Matai'an Creek and surrounding hazardous areas. Nearly 200 residents of Wanrong and Fenglin townships have been evacuated as a precaution. First batch** of Taiwan mangoes shipped to UK** A total of 500-kilograms of Taiwan Irwin mangoes has been air-shipped to the U-K. According to the Tainan City government, it is the first such shipment of the popular (受歡迎的) fruit to the U-K. The shipment of mangoes headed for the U-K is being transported using cold packaging, which means they will be refrigerated in low temperatures during the entire trip. The mangoes have been transported to be Frankfurt Airport in Germany and been transferred to Manchester Airport in northern England. The total production of Taiwan mangoes in 2025 was 102,578 tons, of which, 836 tons were exported to different markets. Along with the U-K, Taiwan's Irwin mangoes have been exported to France this year. Ukraine Intensifies Drone Attacks on Russia Ukraine has intensified its drone attacks on Russia, setting fire to a major oil refinery in the south and killing at least two people, according to Russian authorities. Kyiv's long-range strikes aim to disrupt Russian fuel supplies and military deliveries, pressuring the Kremlin to negotiate. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed the strike on the Slavyansk refinery and claimed another hit in the Yaroslavl region. Ukraine's campaign targets Russian military industries and energy facilities to cut Moscow’s revenue and apply pressure. The campaign has choked Russian fuel supplies, causing widespread shortages and long lines at gas stations across the country and prompting (敦促，推動) authorities in many regions to introduce fuel rationing. According to Western analysts, it has also slowed Moscow’s efforts on the battlefield, adding pressure on the Kremlin to come to the negotiating table. France records around 1,000 ad**ditional deaths as extreme heat sets European **records France records around 1,000 additional deaths as extreme heat sets European records (記錄). 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 down 67-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 46,189 on turnover of $10.9-billion N-T. Downpours Cause Flooding in Tainan (10AM) Authorities are warning residents to prepare for severe rainfall today and Saturday, as strong winds and moisture from tropical storm Mekkhala trigger torrential downpours across Taiwan. From midnight to 8:00 a.m. today, Pingtung’s Wandan Township recorded a maximum rainfall of 332 millimeters, while Tainan’s Guiren District logged 270 millimeters and Kaohsiung’s Xiaogang District saw 257 millimeters. Flooding has been reported in several parts of Tainan, including the East, Ren-de, and Yong-kang Districts, with water reaching up to waist-deep levels in some areas. Firefighters in the city are deploying inflatable boats to rescue trapped residents and traffic is gridlocked (交通嚴重堵塞) around a major national highway interchange. The Taiwan Railway Corporation is also suspending services between Tainan's Yongkang and Kaohsiung's Gangshan stations, after flooding along railway tracks in southern Taiwan. Independent meteorologist Wu Der-rong warns that the combination of an approaching weather front and tropical moisture will bring severe weather, including lightning strikes, strong wind gusts, and sudden downpours, across the entire island through Saturday. (NS) More School and Work Closures Amid Downpours (10AM) Meanwhile… The persistent heavy rains have triggered localized flooding across Hsinchu County, prompting two local schools to call off classes today. The Hsinchu County Government announced this morning that Xinpu Junior High School in Xinpu Township will suspend classes for the entire day and Taoshan Elementary School in mountainous Wufeng Township has canceled classes as well. Overall rainfall levels across Hsinchu have not yet reached the official thresholds for a county-wide closure, but officials note that under government regulations, individual agency heads and school principals are fully authorized to cancel work and classes independently based on immediate, localized (本地化的) safety conditions. Schools and offices are already closed today in Tainan, Kaohsiung and Pingtung due to the rain. (NS) SCOTUS Allows End to Legal Protections for Fleeing Migrants from Haiti Syria From the US….. The Supreme Court is allowing the Trump administration to end legal protections for migrants fleeing violence and natural disaster in Haiti and Syria. The decision Thursday blocks lower court orders and allows the Department of Homeland Security to swiftly end temporary protected status. That program protects a total of 1.3 million people from 17 countries, and the move exposes hundreds of thousands more people to potential deportation. The administration had argued that Homeland Security can revoke protections without court interference. Immigration lawyers say the decision to end the program ignored the law and was tainted by racial animus (種族仇恨、種族敵意). US Senator Warning on Planned Deportation of Unaccompanied Migrant Children Meanwhile… A US Senator is warning of a potential plan to deport unaccompanied (無人陪伴) migrant children AP correspondent Haya Panjwani 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 296-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 46,339 on turnover of 23.8-billion N-T. The market plunged (暴跌) over 1,000 points on Wednesday after tech stocks suffered heavy losses on Wall Street overnight. FSC closely monitoring growing personal loans amid equity boom The Financial Supervisory Commission says it's closely monitoring expanding personal credit (個人信用貸款) as more and more retail investors (散戶投資人) are opting to borrow money to invest in the local stock market amid the current equity boom. According to the commission's Financial Examination Bureau, it's now conducting regular reviews of the local banking sector and will continue monitoring lending activity. The statements come amid concerns over possible risks caused by retail investors using personal loans to buy stocks, and that once the stock market faces volatility (波動), borrowers could fail to repay their loans, pushing up the number of non-performing loans shouldered by banks. CWA issues heavy rain warnings  The Central Weather Administration has issued rain warnings today. Extremely heavy rain or torrential rain (豪雨；暴雨) advisories (警示) are in effect for Kaohsiung, Pingtung and the Hengchun Peninsula. Heavy rain or extremely heavy rain advisories have been issued for the North Coast area, Taipei, New Taipei and Tainan. While a heavy rain advisory is in effect for Keelung, Yunlin both Chiayi city and county, mountainous area of Taitung, Penghu and Matsu. All of the rain warnings are currently in effect through early tomorrow morning. White House asks Congress for USD$87.6B in supplemental spending for Iran War, farm aid, and ebola response The White House has asked Congress for 87.6 billion US dollars in emergency spending, with the bulk of the money earmarked (指定用途) for the war in Iran. Democrats have dismissed (駁回；不予理會) the request, with Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer calling it an attempt to paper over the damage of what he called a reckless war. Connecticut Senator Chris Murphy said the package appeared designed not to pass. The request comes a day after both chambers of Congress voted to rebuke (譴責) US President Donald Trump over the conflict. Mitch Mccann reports from New York. Powerful earthquake rattles Japan A powerful earthquake has struck off Japan’s northern coast but there was no danger of a tsunami, the country’s meteorological agency said. The Japan Meteorological Agency says the quake had a preliminary magnitude (初步規模) of 6.9 and occurred off the eastern coast of Iwate at a depth of about 50 kilometers. The U.S. Geological Survey also reported a magnitude of 6.9. The rattling (搖晃；震動) occurred in the area where strong earthquakes have repeatedly been reported in recent months. The quake struck Japan’s northeastern region during rush hour this morning, and also mildly shook Tokyo. Some bullet trains and other local lines have been suspended for safety checks. Officials say nuclear power plants and facilities and a spent fuel reprocessing plant in Aomori, have not reported any abnormalities (異常) from Thursday's earthquake. 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 190-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 46,909 on turnover of 17.6-billion N-T. The market lost ground (下跌；走低) on Tuesday as semiconductor stocks, especially memory chip suppliers came under heavy pressure as investors rushed to pocket gains (獲利了結；把收益落袋) built in recent sessions. Lai urges democracies to unite against transnational repression President Lai Ching-te is once again calling for closer international cooperation to counter (對抗；反制) transnational repression (跨國鎮壓) and describing it as a growing challenge facing democracies around the world. Speaking at the opening ceremony of a Global Cooperation and Training Framework workshop in Taipei, Lai told attendees that threats facing democratic countries today have gone beyond traditional military domains and geographic boundaries (地理界線). The workshop was titled "Building Resilient Democracies: Responding to Transnational Repression." Organizers say it brought together experts and scholars from 29 countries to exchange views on safeguarding democracy, freedom, human rights and the rule of law. Oil tanker chartered by CPC expected to arrive in Taiwan in July C-P-C has confirmed that a an oil tanker (油輪) it chartered (包租；租用) is expected to arrive in Taiwan in mid-July after exiting the Strait of Hormuz. According to the state-refiner, the "Dubai Energy" is carrying 2-million barrels of crude oil. The statements come after Reuters reported that the Dubai Energy left the Strait of Hormuz and is bound for Kaohsiung. The vessel had been stranded in the Strait for over three months due to the Iran war. C-P-C says the crude oil being shipped to Taiwan will be assigned to C-P-C's refinery plants (煉油廠) in Kaohsiung and Taoyuan based on market demand. NKorea Commissions New Destroyer North Korea has commissioned (正式服役) a 5,000-ton destroyer that leader Kim Jong Un touts as a symbol of the country’s growing naval and nuclear capabilities. North Korea’s official Korean Central News Agency says Kim made the comments Tuesday at a commissioning ceremony at the western port of Nampo. Kim says that warships such as the Choe Hyon show that the nuclear armament (核武裝) of his navy is progressing as planned. State media says Kim during Tuesday’s speech said Kang Kon, a second destroyer in the same class as the Choe Hyon, will also be entering service soon. North Korea also has separate plans to build a larger, 10,000-ton destroyer. US Senate passes war powers resolution on Iran for first time The United States Senate has voted to approve a war powers resolution (戰爭權力決議) directing US President Donald Trump to withdraw American forces (撤軍) from the conflict with Iran — the first time such a measure has passed both chambers of Congress. The White House has dismissed the vote as having no legal significance (法律效力；法律意義), but four Republican senators broke ranks (倒戈；不跟隨所屬陣營立場) to support the resolution alongside Democrats. Mitch Mccann reports from New York. That was Mitch Mccann reporting from New York. Germany Trains Halted Amid System Malfunction A problem with a communications system forced Germany’s railway system to halt all trains, leaving passengers stranded (受困；滯留) across the country. Trains were held at stations late Tuesday evening and would-be travelers stood in long lines at information desks as they tried to figure out how to get to their destinations. The main national railway operator said shortly before 1 a.m., nearly two-and-a-half hours after it first reported the outage (系統中斷；故障), that the problem had been resolved and service was resuming “step by step.” (逐步恢復) The company said there was a nationwide problem with a system which is used for internal communication on the railway network. 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 53 -points this morning from yesterday's close, at 47,795 on turnover of 21.5-billion N-T. The market closed at yet another record high on Monday after surging more than 1,200 points, as Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing smashed previous closing levels amid ongoing optimism over global AI development. Cancer remains No. 1 cause of death in Taiwan for 44th straight year The Ministry of Health and Welfare says cancer remained the leading cause of death here in Taiwan in 2025 - maintaining that trend for the 44th consecutive (連續的) year. According to the ministry, data shows cancer, heart disease, and pneumonia remained the top three causes of death last year. That was followed by cerebrovascular disease and diabetes. Cancer claimed 54,838 lives in 2025 accounting for 27.5-per cent of all deaths and the cancer mortality rate was 234.9 deaths per 100,000 people. The average annual increase of cancer deaths over the past decade has been 1.5-per cent. Lung, liver and colorectal malignancies remained the main causes of cancer deaths in 2025 for the 22nd consecutive year. Suspect in Taipei knife attack on cheerleader detained A man suspected of carrying out a knife attack on C-T-B-C Brothers' Passion Sisters cheerleading team member, Wang Ching-wen has been ordered detained. The 52 year old man was detained after the Shilin District Court approved a request for a detention order submitted by the Shihlin District Prosecutors' Office. The court says it accepted the request based on strong evidence of attempted murder and assault (突擊), as well as the risk that he could reoffend. Wang, who is known by her stage name Wen Wen, was taking part in a private photo shoot at a photo studio in Taipei on Saturday when she was attacked by a man with a knife. The motive for the attack remains under investigation. Iran Pushes Back on US Claims for Agreement on Nuclear Inspectors Iran has pushed back against claims by US Vice President JD Vance that Tehran agreed during talks in Switzerland to readmit international nuclear inspectors — with Iran's foreign ministry saying cooperation with the UN's atomic watchdog would continue under existing procedures. Vance had described the opening round of negotiations at Bürgenstock as "very, very good," but Tehran says substantive (實質Shízhì) discussions on the nuclear issue have not yet begun. The two sides have agreed a road map to reach a final deal within sixty days, with Qatar and Pakistan acting as mediators. Washington correspondent Kate Fisher says the lifting of sanctions on Iranian oil presents a challenge for the US — because Washington will have far less control over how Tehran spends the revenue it earns on the open market. Egypt Detains Hundreds for Illegal Goldmining and Smuggling Egyptian security forces have detained hundreds of people, including foreigners, near the Sudan border. They are accused of illegal gold mining and smuggling, according to the Egyptian military. The military said the detainees included 87 Egyptians and 136 foreigners. Egypt's military said some surrendered (投降) and were sent home. The operation seized large amounts of mining equipment. The southern region of Egypt is rich in gold mines, including the Sukari mine. Sudan, also rich in gold, has seen much of its gold smuggled due to the war there. 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 214-points this morning from Thursday's close, at 4,6679 on turnover of 25.1-billion N-T. The market smashed record closing levels once again last Thursday - the final trading day of the national holiday shortened week - with large cap tech stocks in focus as investors continued to focus on strong AI development. Testing of MQ-9B 'SkyGuardian' drone underway in Taiwan Reports says testing of MQ-9B "SkyGuardian" drones is already underway here in Taiwan. Four of the drones were ordered from the United States in 2020. The U-S agreed to deliver the four MQ-9Bs to Taiwan in two batches in 2026 and 2027 and defense officials have not said how many of the drones were included in the first shipment, which was recently delivered. According to an anonymous source,the military and the drone manufacturer are working together on assembly and will next proceed to ( 進行，繼續進行) flight testing. MQ-9Bs are capable of long-term, long-range surveillance. Lin Yu-ting wins silver at World Boxing Cup in China Olympic gold medalist Lin Yu-ting has won silver at the 2026 World Boxing Cup stop in Guiyang, China, after losing to Kazakhstan's Viktoriya Grafeyeva in the women's 60-kilogram final. Lin's coach Tseng Tzu-chiang says the heavier weight class tested Lin's stamina (耐力) and she appeared not to have fully recovered from her semifinal against Chinese former world champion Yang Cheng-yu on Saturday. Lin returned to the ring earlier this year after taking a 19-month break from international competition amid uncertainty surrounding World Boxing's new sex-testing regulations. IRAN-US TALKS IN CRISIS AS TEHRAN DELEGATION REFUSES TO RETURN AFTER A senior U.S. diplomat says negotiators anticipate working through the night after U.S.-Iran talks on their interim deal to end the war had a tense start in Switzerland. Nuclear talks between the two sides were thrown into turmoil at the Bürgenstock resort, with Iran's delegation refusing to return to the negotiating table after a break, citing what Tehran called threatening and insulting remarks by US President Donald Trump. Trump said on Sunday the US might take over the Strait of Hormuz if no deal is reached, and warned Iranian officials they would not have a country if they closed the waterway. The two sides have given sharply different accounts of events at the summit, with deep mistrust evident (明顯) even before formal sessions began. Allister Dsouza reports from Washington. Bolivia Roadblocks Continue Amid Protests Bolivia continues to clear roadblocks isolating its capital, La Paz, and other cities. This follows President Rodrigo Paz's state of emergency declaration, ratified by parliament. On Sunday, a tragic plane crash killed six people, including Bolivian Air Force officers. The aircraft was monitoring a blocked highway between La Paz and Cochabamba. Although many blockades have been lifted, some persist in Cochabamba, led by coca growers' unions allied with former President Evo Morales. The government accuses Morales of instigating (煽動) protests to avoid legal issues. The state of emergency will last 90 days but could end sooner if violence subsides. 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 (上漲開盤) 95-points this morning from yesterday's close (收盤), at 45,972 on turnover (成交金額) of $15-billion N-T. ---- 90 percent of suspended social media accounts restored: MODA The Ministry of Digital Affairs says Meta has promised to restore (恢復) thousands of social media accounts wrongly suspended (被停用 / 被停權) over the weekend, with nearly 90 percent recovered as of Wednesday afternoon. Between 3,000 and 4,000 accounts were suspended late Sunday after a technical issue caused Meta's system to mistakenly flag users as being under 13 years old, part of a new age-verification mechanism (年齡驗證機制) the company rolled out in May. About 200 accounts belonged to media organizations and public figures, with thousands more belonging to individual users. The ministry instructed Meta to restore a list of nearly 100 accounts, including those of major broadcasters and prominent political figures, by 6 p.m. Wednesday. Meta also said its existing appeal mechanisms remain available for users whose accounts are still suspended. ---- Banqiao man arrested after robbing bank with scissors A 50-year-old man was arrested (被逮捕) Wednesday morning after robbing a bank in New Taipei's Banqiao District with a pair of scissors. Police said the robbery at the Taishin International Bank branch was reported at around 10:15 a.m. Officers arrived four minutes later to find the suspect (嫌犯), surnamed Wang, seated in the customer area counting cash. He was arrested on the spot. Wang is being questioned on suspicion of robbery. Investigators are working to determine whether any accomplices (共犯) were involved and whether the crime was premeditated. ---- US and Iran digitally sign MOU to end war as Trump warns he'll resume bombing if talks fail US President Donald Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian have digitally signed a fourteen-point memorandum of understanding (諒解備忘錄) to end the war between the United States, Israel and Iran. The deal calls for an immediate ceasefire (停火), the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and the lifting of sanctions (制裁) on Iranian oil exports, but President Trump has warned the agreement is not final and the US would resume military action if further talks fail. A further round of negotiations is due to begin in Switzerland on Friday, with those talks expected to conclude within sixty days. Kate Fisher has more from Washington. That was Kate Fisher in Washington. ---- UN Warns of Acute Hunger Across Global Hotspots The United Nations’ food agencies warn that acute hunger (嚴重飢餓) is set to worsen across 13 global hot spots in the coming months, calling for urgent action. Conflict, funding shortages, and climate shocks are pushing millions closer to famine (飢荒). A new joint report from the Food and Agriculture Organization and the World Food Program highlights that conditions are expected to deteriorate between June and November 2026. Around 266 million people already face high levels of acute food insecurity (糧食不安全). The report says "Sudan, South Sudan, Yemen, and Palestine" remain the countries of greatest concern. Nigeria and Somalia have been newly added to that category as conditions worsen and famine risks rise. ---- UK Stonehenge "Prototype" Discovered Archaeologists (考古學家) say they have discovered a structure near Stonehenge that may have served as a “prototype” (原型) for the monument. A team from Wessex Archaeology says the structure, found near Bulford, predates Stonehenge by around 500 years. It consisted of two wooden poles aligned with the sun during solstices (至日). The site also revealed pottery, animal bones, and a rare knife, suggesting it was a focus for religious gatherings. The discovery was made as part of work for the British defense ministry. Stonehenge remains a symbol of British culture and a major tourist attraction. ---- 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 124-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 45,685 on turnover of $8-billion N-T. Shares in Taiwan extended momentum (延續動能) from a session earlier and closed at the day's high Tuesday, led by the electronics and financial sectors amid improved sentiment (市場信心改善) with the United States and Iran scheduled to sign a peace agreement Friday. Optimism toward geopolitics continued to drive the local main board higher, but analysts say the gains lagged behind a strong rally in the United States as some investors appeared reluctant to chase prices amid fears of possible volatility (波動性) today, the settlement day of the June futures. Kaohsiung hospital dengue cluster linked to imported case: CDC The Centers for Disease Control says a dengue fever cluster (群聚感染) at Kaohsiung Municipal Min-Sheng Hospital has been confirmed as linked to an imported case from Vietnam. A localized dengue cluster emerged at Min-Sheng Hospital after five inpatients tested positive for dengue fever on June 12-th. At a weekly briefing, the CDC said genetic sequencing (基因定序) showed all infections in the cluster matched an imported case reported earlier this month. As of Monday, the cluster totaled six cases, with no new infections reported. The CDC has since expanded testing to more than 1,400 people at the hospital, but there is currently no evidence of broader community transmission (社區傳播). The center is stressing that dengue fever is a mosquito-borne disease and is not transmitted from person to person, thus mosquito prevention remains the most important measure. FBI foil terror plot against White House UFC event The FBI has arrested multiple people in connection with (與…有關) an alleged (涉嫌的) terrorist plot to attack Sunday’s Ultimate Fighting Championship event at the White House. It was designed to coincide with (與…同時發生) Donald Trump's 80th birthday celebrations. Nick Harper reports from Washington. Toronto Links Multiple Shootings to GunforHire Networks Toronto police have linked multiple shootings, including one at the U.S. Consulate in March, to complex gun-for-hire networks (受僱開槍犯罪網絡). The Canadian city's police chief says young adults are being recruited through encrypted messaging apps (加密通訊軟體) to carry out attacks. Some firearms used in these shootings have been seized. A veteran officer was killed last week during a related raid (突襲行動). Toronto police, along with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and FBI, are investigating who is funding these attacks. Two firearms involved in over 25 shootings originated in the U.S. A suspect remains hospitalized, and another is wanted in connection with the consulate shooting. Uffizi Repositions Botticelli Masterpieces The Uffizi Gallery has repositioned (重新調整位置) Sandro Botticelli’s masterpieces “The Birth of Venus” and “Primavera.” Starting Tuesday, visitors can view “The Birth of Venus” in one room and then turn to see “Primavera” in an adjoining space (相鄰空間). The director of the famed musuem in Italy, says this update marks a new phase in the ongoing renovation (持續進行的整修) of the Uffizi. Previously, the paintings were displayed on adjacent walls, allowing both to be viewed at once. In earlier decades, they hung on opposite walls in the same room, leading to crowding. 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 103-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 45,500 on turnover of $14-billion N-T. Shares in Taiwan surged more than 1,200 points and closed above the 45,000-point mark Monday on an announcement by the United States and Iran that they have reached a peace deal slated to be signed Friday. Contract chipmaker TSMC rose 2.81 percent, contributing about 520 points to the Taiex's rise and sending the electronics index up 2.97 percent. Analysts say buying also rotated to passive electronics component makers, adding momentum to the tech sector. TFDA confirms no contaminated forumla imported The Food and Drug Administration is confirming that a contaminated (受污染的) infant formula in the US was not imported into Taiwan. The product came under scrutiny after three cases of infant botulism (肉毒桿菌中毒) were reported in the US. The US CDC found that all three affected infants had consumed the formula. Taiwanese officials say that there are no import records for the product over the past three years. According to the U.S. FDA, the three illnesses began between April and May 2026. Testing of the infant formula in question and related investigations remain ongoing. US & Iran sign peace deal, starting more negotiations US President Donald Trump says Washington and Tehran have signed a deal to end the conflict (衝突) and start further negotiations on Iran’s nuclear program. The two sides are scheduled to take part in a signing ceremony on Friday in Geneva. Nick Harper reports from Washington. UN Resolution Calls on Taliban to Reverse Crackdown on Women The U.N. Security Council has unanimously adopted a resolution calling on Afghanistan’s Taliban rulers to swiftly reverse their crackdown on women. China’s U.N. Ambassador, whose country sponsored the resolution, said the hope is that the Afghan government will “take more proactive measures to protect human rights, especially the rights of women, and project an image of openness, inclusivity (包容性) and responsibility.” The resolution adopted on Monday extends the U.N. political mission in Afghanistan until June 17, 2027. It authorizes the mission to support humanitarian aid deliveries and promote national and local governance “without any discrimination based on sex, religion or ethnicity, with the full, equal, meaningful and safe participation of women." 1st Edition Wuthering Heights Up for Auction A rare first-edition copy of Emily Brontë’s novel "Wuthering Heights" is up for auction for the first time in over a century. Christie's auction house announced Monday that this is the first copy in the publisher’s original cloth binding to be auctioned since 1908. Only about 250 copies of the first edition were printed, and this one has been in a private library since shortly after (不久之後) its publication in 1847. The book, along with a copy of Anne Brontë’s "Agnes Grey," is expected to sell for up to $800-thousand US dollars at a June 30th sale in London. 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 279-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 44,448 on turnover of $18.6-billion N-T. Shares in Taiwan closed more than 1,000 points higher Friday with AI-related stocks in focus amid improved sentiment after U.S. President Donald Trump cancelled planned strikes against Iran. Analysts say electronics heavyweights, notably in the semiconductor industry simply followed suit and the momentum largely reflected optimism toward AI development. And select raw material stocks also moved higher in line with the Taiex. Civil groups urge protections for migrant caregivers through agency hiring Civil groups are urging the government to allow household migrant caregivers to be hired and managed by long-term care agencies. They say, the move would prevent overwork and better protect the interests of both those providing and receiving care. Protesters demonstrated at a rally outside the Ministry of Health and Welfare, saying "exploitation (利用，剝削) is not a choice." Advocates described facing long working hours, limited opportunities for rest or leave, and increasing care responsibilities that often go beyond what one person can do. They noted that the rights to rest and take leave are "fundamental labor and human rights," and emphasized that caregivers being overworked affected the quality of care received by older adults. MOHW officials say that the proposed change would require significant regulatory changes and careful assessment. 2 Mercury viewing events coming up The Taipei Astronomical Museum says, stargazers may be able to view Mercury with the naked eye twice this week… This month Mercury is visible low in the western sky after sunset and can be seen more easily with binoculars. The first event will occur tomorrow, with one of the best chances all year to observe the planet. Then on Wednesday, Mercury will join Venus, Jupiter, and a crescent moon in the western sky,with all four objects forming a vertical arrangement. The museum recommended viewing the events between 7 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. from a location with an unobstructed (無障礙的) view of the western horizon… but they do warn of unstable weather affecting visibility. Gaza latest Gaza’s Health Ministry says the Palestinian death toll from the Israel-Hamas war has surpassed 73,000. The updated toll came as Israel has continued to strike what it says are militant targets, often killing civilians, despite a fragile (脆弱的) ceasefire deal reached in October. Donna Warder again. G7 Summit Protests Thousands of demonstrators are converging in Geneva to show their discontent with the G7 group of rich countries. U.S. President Donald Trump and counterparts are set to hold a summit starting today across Lake Geneva in France. Environmentalists and feminists on Sunday joined protesters against imperialism (帝國主義), defenders of independent media and supporters of Palestinian rights and others in a lakeside park for a march across town. The summit from Monday to Wednesday in Evian-les-Bains, France, will discuss the Middle East, Ukraine and global economic issues. Demonstrators have been gathering for days. Switzerland Rejects Proposal to Cap Population Swiss voters have rejected a proposal to cap the country's population at 10 million. The initiative, led by the right-wing Swiss People's Party, was seen as a move against migration. Preliminary results showed nearly 55% opposed the measure, with a turnout of almost 59%. Critics warned it could harm Switzerland's ties with the European Union. Switzerland isn't an EU member but is surrounded by EU countries. The proposal's defeat reflects ongoing debates about immigration in Europe. Swiss democracy allows voters to directly influence policy through referendums, highlighting the country's unique approach to governance (治理). 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 438-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 43,588 on turnover of $22.6-billion N-T. The market lost ground on Thursday, as investors reacted to another sell-off of artificial-intelligence stocks that dragged Wall Street down overnight. The loses were far less than Thursday's sharp decline, but the main board still closed lower. Taiwan slips to 42nd in Global Peace Index Taiwan ranks 42nd in terms of peacefulness in the 2026 Global Peace Index. Taiwan has an overall score of 1.751 this year and fell from 37th place in last year's report. The report is published by the global Institute for Economics and Peace and covers 163 countries. The overall score measures a country's level of peacefulness, using 23 quantitative and qualitative indicators across three domains - those being ongoing domestic and international conflict, societal safety and security, and militarization. Each indicator is weighted on a scale of 1 to 5, with lower scores indicating greater peacefulness. Although Taiwan ranks 42nd worldwide, it's listed in 9th place among the 19 Asian-Pacific countries in the report. Iceland remained the most peaceful country in the world for the 19th consecutive (連續的) year, with an overall score of 1.161, followed by New Zealand, Switzerland, Slovenia and Ireland. New Taipei launches new commuter bus routes over Danjiang Bridge The New Taipei Transportation Department has launched (啓動，開始) four new bus routes that cross that Danjiang Bridge. The new routes provide 80 daily services between Banqiao and Tamsui, Tamsui and Taoyuan International Airport, and Tamsui and Bali. Route 988 connects Banqiao Bus Station and Danhai New Town with 20 services each way on weekdays and 18 each way on weekends. Airport routes 989 and 990, provide 10 services each way between Taoyuan Airport and Danhai New Town, and Tamsui Metro Station. The 115 route will operate as a commuter service between Tamsui and Bali on weekdays and as a tourism-focused route on weekends and public holidays. Philippine QuakeHit Town Pleads for Food Supplies The mayor of a quake-hit southern Philippine town is pleading for air force helicopters to transport food to stave off hunger in places isolated by landslides. The earthquake Monday off southern Sarangani province has left 47 people dead with 31 others still missing and 45,000 displaced. The mayor of the town of Glan says 10 villages remained isolated (被孤立) mostly due to landslides. He pleaded for the immediate deployment of air force helicopters to deliver food to the stricken areas. The town doesn't have power and phone service is unreliable. UK Defence Secretary Resigns The UK defence secretary has resigned. John Healey says the government's plans for spending on defence 'falls well short of what's required.' John Bevir reports. Thailand Princess Dies Age 47 Thailand’s Princess Bajrakitiyabha "Pacha-raki-ti-ya-Pa" Mahidol, a lawyer and the eldest of King Maha Vajiralongkorn’s children, has died at age 47. The palace said she died Thursday. She had been on life support after falling unconscious in 2022. The princess was active in justice reform and known for her “Inspire” project to rehabilitate (恢復正常生活，獲得改造) incarcerated women. She had a doctoral degree from Cornell University, where scholarships to the law school were established in her name. 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 43,172 on turnover of 11.9-billion N-T. The market tumbled (大跌、暴跌) on Wednesday after heavy selling in major tech stocks triggered a decline that sent the benchmark index back to below its monthly moving average and erased all of the previous session's gains. Two leading House Republicans to meet with KMT chair Two leading U-S House Republicans are meeting with K-M-T Chair Cheng Li-wun in Washington, House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Brian Mast, and Young Kim, who leads a subcommittee (小組委員會) overseeing East Asia policy have both said they will sit down with Cheng. Mast has admitted he doesn't have specific expectations for the meeting. While a spokesperson for Kim, says the lawmaker plans to encourage Cheng and the K-M-T to support more defense spending to show Taiwan's commitment to self-defense and deterrence (嚇阻、威懾). NGO warns large fish disappearing from Taiwan's coasts due to overfishing Greenpeace Taiwan says research shows that smaller fish are making up an increasing share of Taiwan's inshore and offshore catches (近海與離岸漁獲), a trend the group says indicates larger fish are becoming rarer due to overfishing. According to the study, the proportion of fish caught before reaching "Lm50" — or the length at which 50 percent of a species reaches sexual maturity (性成熟) — rose from 77.7-percent in 2022 to 93.3-percent in 2025. Researchers say the survey points to severe overfishing and shows that without effective management measures, fish populations could face bottleneck effects (瓶頸效應) that result in progressively smaller fish. Iran latest Bahrain sounded its missile alert sirens (飛彈警報器) early Thursday morning after Iran threatened to retaliate (報復、反擊) over a new round of U.S. airstrikes targeting the Islamic Republic. Bahrain's urged the public to seek shelter. Iran’s paramilitary (準軍事的) Revolutionary Guard had threatened to strike Bahrain over the attacks. The second day of American strikes comes hours after Bahrain, Kuwait and Jordan — all of which host U.S. troops — came under Iranian fire. Iran has said it will close the Strait of Hormuz in response. Congo Ebola outbreak spreads in the east Congo's Ebola outbreak (疫情、爆發) has spread to another health zone in the country's northeastern province of Ituri. Health officials say the outbreak has now affected 26 health zones nationwide. That includes 18 in Ituri where most of the confirmed cases (確診病例) have been reported. Officials reported 37 new confirmed cases and 12 deaths in the past 24 hours. The outbreak has now recorded 635 confirmed cases and 127 deaths across three eastern provinces. It is caused by the rare Bundibugyo strain (病毒株) of Ebola. Officials say there is no approved vaccine or specific treatment for that strain. Treatment activities are now underway at Ebola centers in two affected areas. Pope Leo blesses Sagrada Familia's tallest tower Pope Leo has blessed the newest tower of Barcelona's Sagrada Familia, making it the tallest church in the world. The 172-meter Tower of Jesus Christ is topped with a large ceramic cross visible across the city. Leo called the basilica an "architectural masterpiece" (建築傑作) during a Mass attended by Spain's king, queen and prime minister. The ceremony came 100 years after the death of architect Antoni Gaudi. The pope also used his sermon (講道、布道) to say Christians "cannot believe in Jesus and promote war." Earlier in the day, Leo became the first pope to visit a Spanish prison. He urged inmates at Brians 1 prison to make amends (彌補過錯、改過) and choose better lives. The Sagrada Familia was meant to be completed this year, but construction is now expected to continue until 2035. 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 122-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 44,581 on turnover of 8.6-billion N-T. The market staged a technical rebound (技術性反彈) on Tuesday led by the electronics sector, after tech stocks rallied on Wall Street overnight, while buying also rotated to (輪動至) the financial sector, to give an additional boost to the broader market. Lai touts Shinzo Abe's legacy at Tokyo forum  President Lai Ching-te said Taiwan and Japan face identical security challenges along the First Island Chain. In a pre-recorded address at the inaugural (首屆的) Shinzo Abe and Modern Japan International Research Forum in Tokyo, Lai said the late Prime Minister's declaration that "a Taiwan contingency (緊急事態) is a Japanese contingency" highlights the importance of continued peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. The president also used the opportunity to thank Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi for continuing Abe’s legacy. The forum was cohosted by the National Chengchi University's Shinzo Abe Research Center and the Japan Institute for National Fundamentals think tank… it brought together experts from Taiwan, Japan and the U-S to discuss Abe's legacy and strategy. Hsinchu gas explosion cause under investigation  Fire investigators (調查人員) and police are looking into the cause of an explosion that left two people dead and two others injured in Hsinchu City on Tuesday. The explosion ripped through (炸穿 / 猛烈摧毀) a lunchbox store on Gaocui Road in the city's East District. The blast collapsed a wall onto a neighboring bakery - where the two elderly victims were sleeping. Both were later pronounced dead at a nearby hospital. Firefighters believe the blast was due gas accumulating (累積 / 聚積) overnight inside the lunchbox store after it closed. US Launches New Attacks on Iran Following Helicopter Incident Bahrain has sounded its missile alert sirens as Iran said it targeted the island nation to retaliate (報復) for US strikes. Iran said it had targeted the U.S. Navy’s 5th Fleet headquarters in Bahrain, the island nation in the Persian Gulf off the coast of Saudi Arabia. Bahrain’s Interior Ministry urged (呼籲) the public to seek shelter. The US launched fresh strikes on Iran following the downing of an Apache helicopter near the Strait of Hormuz, putting any new peace agreement in jeopardy (陷入危險). Mitch McCann reports. … That was correspondent Mitch McCann. Brazil Crackdown on Smugglers of Cuban Migrants Brazilian police have rescued more than 100 Cuban migrants from human smugglers (走私者 / 偷渡集團) at the northern border with Guyana. Officials say the 108 migrants are in custody while authorities work to regularize (使合法化) their immigration status. Five people have been arrested on smuggling charges. The smugglers, known as "coyotes," charged high fees and provided unsafe travel conditions. The operation, conducted Monday, marks the largest humanitarian rescue in the state. Cuban migration to Brazil has surged since 2022 due to Cuba's economic crisis and U.S. sanctions. More affluent migrants often fly to Sao Paulo, while others travel overland through northern Amazon states. 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 184-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 43,687 on turnover of 22.7-billion N-T. The market recorded its third largest ever point decline on Monday as investors reacted to plunge on Wall Street last Friday as big artificial intelligence-related stocks fell. MND calls China Coast Guard patrols 'provocative' Defense Minister Wellington Koo is describing Chinese Coast Guard patrols in waters east of Taiwan as being a "provocative act." The statement comes after four Chinese ships, including three coast guard vessels, sailed into Taiwan's restricted waters 30-nautical miles southwest of the island's southern most tip on Sunday. The Coast Guard Administration dispatched seven if its vessels the area to warn away ​the Chinese ships. According to the defense minister, China's actions were a form of cognitive warfare, that was aimed at claiming Taiwan's eastern waters as belonging to Beijing - which shows serious disrespect for Taiwan's national sovereignty. MOJ seeking death for etomidate trafficking Justice Minister Cheng Ming-chien says his office is taking steps to reclassify etomidate, which is also known as "zombie vape." According to Cheng, the Narcotics Review Committee will hold talks next week, at which the drug could be upgraded from a Category 2 narcotic to Category 1 due to its potential for abuse. Cheng says if the committee agrees to reclassify the drug, those convicted of manufacturing, transporting or selling etomidate could face life in prison or the death penalty. The statements come after the National Police Agency recently reported that large numbers of people have been arrested for driving under the influence of etomidate in recent years. Premier Cho Jung-tai last week told reporters that authorities will be stepping up border inspections targeting the so called "zombie vapes." Ukraine Strikes Russian Oil Facilities Ukrainian forces have struck oil facilities in Russia and occupied Ukraine as part of their campaign to impose economic costs on Moscow. Ukrainian and Russian officials confirmed the attacks on Monday. Ukraine's President Zelenskyy has confirmed that Roman Abramovich acted as a mediator between Kyiv and Moscow, delivering messages from Russian President Putin. Russia's Defense Ministry reported shooting down 310 Ukrainian drones overnight. Meanwhile, Ukraine's General Staff said Ukrainian forces targeted Russia’s Krasnodar Krai region and Crimea, sparking fires at oil facilities. Russian drone strikes injured civilians in several Ukrainian regions, including Kharkiv and Odesa. US Federal judge blocks Trump’s $100,000 visas for high skilled workers A federal judge has blocked President Trump’s policy of imposing (推行，強制實行) a $100,000 fee for H-1B visas - which are used to bring highly skilled workers to the United States. Toni Waterman has the details. Germany Presidential Office Popup Art Show A pop-up art show featuring contemporary works is set to open at the German president's official residency this week before renovations (整修，裝潢) begin. President Frank-Walter Steinmeier expressed his support for the show on Monday, emphasizing (強調) the importance of free art in democracy. The exhibition will run for two weeks starting Friday and is organized by Berlin's Academy of Arts. Interest has been high, with the ticket website crashing last month. The show includes works by artists like Katharina Grosse and Wolfgang Tillmans. Visitors can also interact with artists through performances and discussions. 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 563-points this morning from Friday's close, at 44,507 on turnover of 31--billion N-T. The market lost ground on Friday after big artificial intelligence-related stocks saw sharp declines on Wall Street overnight, but financial stocks helped stabilize (穩定) the main board. Analysts says that decline came as many investors rushed to (趕往、衝向) pocket recent gains built in the electronics sector in the wake of the U-S losses. VP encourages tourists to visit Palau during 1st ally trip Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim is urging more Taiwan tourists to visit Palau. She made the call after snorkeling with Palau's President Surangel Whipps during her first visit to the diplomatic ally as vice president. Hsiao arrived in Palau on Saturday on a direct flight from Taiwan. She joined Whipps on a boat trip Sunday morning to Big Drop Off, a renowned snorkeling and diving site in the southern part of Palau's Rock Islands. According to Hsiao, after working hard in their daily lives, people in Taiwan deserve to arrange an island getaway to relax and recharge, and Palau is a convenient (方便的) choice because it is close to Taiwan and served by direct flights. Taiwan's Japan rep. attends Tokyo Pride and highlights equality Taiwan's representative to Japan, Lee Yi-yang has attended the Tokyo Pride Parade. Lee was invited to speak on the event's main stage by Britain's ambassador to Japan, Julia Longbottom. He was only official representative from an Asian country to do so. Lee used his speech to tout Taiwan becaming the first country in Asia to legalize same-sex marriage in 2019, describing the move as not only a legal milestone but also a reflection of broader (更廣泛的) social progress. Members of Team Taiwan, a group formed by the Taipei Representative Office in Japan, the Taiwan Alliance to Promote Civil Partnership Rights and the Taiwan AIDS Foundation attended the event. Ebola latest Officials of the Democratic ​Republic of ‌Congo said that ​the number of confirmed ​Ebola cases ​had increased to 515 ​after ​27 new samples ‌tested positive in the previous 24 ​hours. Government data showing the ​confirmed cases include ​91 ​deaths. Donna Warder has more on efforts to bring the epidemic to a head (達到緊要關頭). Philippines 7.8Earthquake and Tsunami Warning A magnitude 7.8 earthquake has shaken part of the southern Philippines, and a tsunami was possible on some regional coasts. Power outages were reported and people were urged to (力勸，強烈要求) go to higher ground. No further information on damage or casualties was immediately available. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology said the epicenter was 13 kilometers from General Santos city on the island of Mindanao. It was just 10 kilometers deep and struck at 7:37 this morning. The Pacific Tsunami Warning Center said tsunami waves up to 3 meters were possible on some coasts of the Philippines. Waves up to 1 meter were possible in parts of Indonesia. 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 58-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 45,620 on turnover of $18-billion N-T. Premier talks lifetime license ban for fatal drug-impaired driving Premier Cho Jung-tai says motorists who cause death or serious injury while driving under the influence of drugs will face a lifetime license ban under planned amendments to the law. According to the Cabinet, the Ministry of Justice has been instructed to draft amendments imposing harsher (更嚴厲的) criminal penalties for drug-impaired driving as soon as possible. The premier says Cabinet would discuss establishing a legal basis for rapid saliva testing of suspected drug-impaired drivers and those tests could also be used alongside existing urine tests in schools to strengthen anti-drug efforts. The premier also says authorities will step up border inspections targeting vapes and that he's instructed the justice ministry to convene a narcotics review committee to consider reclassifying etomidate from a Category 2 to a Category 1 narcotic. The proposed changes come after the Ministry of Transport earlier this week unveiled a package of stricter administrative penalties that also covered passengers riding with drug-impaired drivers and expanded license revocations. Taipei Zoo to receive two red pandas on Saturday: Officials Taipei Zoo is scheduled to receive two red pandas from Shanghai Zoo tomorrow. The red pandas are coming to Taiwan under an agreement signed at the 2024 Shanghai-Taipei Twin City Forum. Taipei Zoo will be sending white‑handed gibbons to Shanghai Zoo instead of African penguins as originally (起初) stated in the agreement. Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan‑an says the red pandas are expected to make their public debut after completing a one-month quarantine period following their arrival. Former Trump advisor John Bolton reportedly reaches plea deal Donald Trump’s former national security advisor John Bolton has reportedly agreed to plead guilty to mishandling classified misinformation, stemming from a critical book he wrote about his time in the administration.. The case is part of the US President’s campaign to aggressively (激烈地，竭力地) prosecute his perceived (認為) critics. Ira Spitzer has more. Somalia Opposition Clashes in Mogadishu Somalia's opposition supporters and security forces have clashed in Mogadishu for a second day ahead of a planned anti-government demonstration. The United Nations and the United States called for restraint (克制) as the government and opposition blame each other for the violence. Residents reported heavy gunfire and explosions in several neighborhoods. The clashes highlight growing political tensions over elections and the constitution. Gunfire subsides Thursday afternoon after mediation efforts. Opposition figures say the rally protests constitutional violations and efforts by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud to extend his tenure. The government rejects those allegations. EU Expands Ocean Monitoring Network The European Union is expanding its ocean monitoring network with underwater drones and satellites as climate change intensifies heat waves and storms. EU Commision President Ursula von der Leyen $107-million US dollars will fund this effort. Oceans are vital ecosystems covering about 70% of planet Earth, hosting complex webs of life that generate oxygen and absorb (吸收) greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide. The EU aims to lead global ocean research and protection. Funds will support oceanic technology incubators and the United Nations' Global Ocean Observing System. By 2035, the EU hopes to cover 35% of Earth's maritime monitoring network. 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 95-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 46,364 on turnover of 13-billion N-T. The market closed at yet another record high on Wednesday, it surpassed the 46,000 mark following an overnight rally among tech stocks on Wall Street - which triggered buying, particularly in the bellwether electronics sector (指標電子類股). In news from and about Taiwan this morning, Research group to work with US defense firm on drone development The government-sponsored Metal Industries Research & Development Center has signed a memorandum of understanding (合作備忘錄) with US-based defense technology developer Anduril Industries for the development of unmanned aerial vehicles (無人機). The agreement was signed by Center Chairperson Liu Chia-ru and Anduril founder Palmer Luckey in Taipei. According to the center, cooperation will focus on the development of A-I autonomous systems and key drone components and the two parties will integrate the supply chains, promote localized production (在地化生產) and expand technology exchanges. 2025 carbon reduction estimated at 9%, below 10% goal Environment Minister Peng Chi-ming says Taiwan's greenhouse gas emissions (溫室氣體排放) in 2025 are estimated to have been about 9-per cent below 2005 levels, narrowly missing the government's 10-per cent reduction target (減量目標). According to Peng, the official goal remain to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 28-per cent, plus or minus 2 percentage points, by 2030 compared with 2005 levels. Peng says in order to meet the 2030 target, the government will need to reduce emissions by nearly 20-per cent over the next five years. Peng is describing that possibilty as being challenging, despite emissions here in Taiwan being on a steady downward trend (下降趨勢). House delivers bipartisan condemnation of Iran war House lawmakers have delivered a bipartisan condemnation (譴責) of the Iran war, passing a resolution to block U.S. President Donald Trump from ordering further strikes. Kate Fisher reports from Washington Indonesia Arrests Nutrition Agency Head Over Corruption Indonesia's former head of the National Nutrition Agency has been arrested on corruption charges (貪污指控) related to a multibillion-dollar free-meals program. The initiative aimed to fight malnutrition (營養不良) by feeding nearly 90 million children and pregnant women. President Prabowo Subianto fired Dadan Hindayana on Tuesday, replacing him with the agency's deputy chief. Investigators searched the agency’s offices early Wednesday. Prosecutors also arrested two other officials. The program, expected to cost $28 billion through 2029, has faced criticism for high costs and food poisoning (食物中毒) cases. WHO says Congo's Ebola outbreak testing is improving The World Health Organization says Congo's Ebola outbreak (疫情爆發) had a head start, but testing is improving, even as violence plagues the region. Since mid-May, 344 cases and 60 deaths have been confirmed in three eastern provinces. The number of suspected cases (疑似病例) has dropped significantly. Uganda has 15 confirmed cases, including one death. The outbreak involves a rare Ebola type with no approved medicine or vaccine. Limited testing and access issues make assessing the outbreak's extent difficult. The W-H-O says only 45-per cent of contacts have been traced, with insecurity and displacement complicating efforts. 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 103-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 45,660. However, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing saw its share prices (股價) soar to a record high (歷史新高) of 2,440 N-T with the opening minutes - and that resulted in the main board making a significant gain of 841 points … .. which pushed the market above the 46,000 point mark, as it reached 46,398. Market watchers say the rises are due to investor optimism (投資人樂觀情緒) toward A-I, as keynote speeches at Computex Taipei has boosted tech stocks values both here in Taiwan and on Wall Street overnight. Air Force grounds T-34C trainers follow crash  The Air Force has grounded (停飛) all of its T-34C trainers pending safety checks (安全檢查) following a crash at the Gangshan Air Base in Kaohsiung that left two pilots dead. The two-seater aircraft crashed while conducting a routine simulated engine-failure training exercise. Both Lt. Col. Lu Chi-yu and Lt. Col. Kuo Chun-nan were pronounced dead at the scene. According to Air Force Chief Inspector Major General Chiang Yi-cheng, the pilots reported no anomalies or malfunctions (故障) during the flight test and weather conditions, including visibility, were suitable for flying. The Air Force has formed a special task force to investigate the cause of the crash. Taiwan makes 1st large-scale shipment of summer fruits to Europe Agriculture Minister Chen Junne-jih has overseen a send-off ceremony for the first large-scale export (大規模出口) of Taiwan-grown summer fruits to Europe. The 6 metric tons of mangoes, lychees and dragon fruit left Pingtung County after meeting European Union import and quarantine requirements (檢疫規定). Speaking at the ceremony Chen said Taiwan's fresh fruit exports to Europe had previously been limited, but this latest shipment mark the start of a more systematic push into the European market. According to the exporter, the shipment is destined for Rungis, France's largest wholesale fresh produce market (生鮮批發市場), which serves as a key sourcing hub for Michelin-starred restaurants, hotels and major retailers. Starmer's WhatApp messages set to disappear as Mandelson files deepen leadership crisis British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer's official spokesperson (官方發言人) has confirmed the prime minister's WhatsApp messages are set to automatically disappear (自動消失)… A revelation that emerged after a cabinet meeting on the same day as the release of around a thousand pages of documents related to the appointment and dismissal of Peter Mandelson as British ambassador to Washington. The opposition Conservatives say they are surprised by how little of the prime minister's own communications feature in the release, and have accused the government of a cover-up (掩蓋真相). Olly Barratt reports from London. Canada Calls on US Mexico to Renew FTA Canada is calling on the United States and Mexico to renew (延長 / 續約) the free trade agreement (自由貿易協定) between the countries for another 16 years just as U.S. President Donald Trump revives talk of making Canada the 51st state. Canada’s minister for U.S. trade sent a letter to United States Trade Representative Jamieson Greer and Mexico’s Secretary of Economy Marcelo Ebrard on Tuesday that conveys Canada’s recommendation. The letter comes ahead of the scheduled July review of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement. Its the latest version of free trade agreements among the U.S., Mexico and Canada dating back to the early 1990s that have intertwined (緊密相連 / 交織在一起) the economies of the three North American countries. Trump posted “51st State!” on social media late 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 up 51-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 45,388 on turnover of 19.1-billion N-T. The market gained solid ground and closed above the 45,000-point mark for the first time on Monday, amid investor enthusiasm over the artificial intelligence boom. The rise came as some of the world's leading tech companies are in Taiwan for Computex this week - where they're expected to give solid guidance for A-I at a series of forums and keynote speeches. Analysts say Computex-driven business opportunities could help push the market higher for much of this week. Vystrcil says China cannot decide Czech-Taiwanese ties Visiting Czech Senate President Milos Vystrcil says China cannot tell the Czech Republic whom to befriend (交朋友). The statement came shortly after Vystrcil arrived in Taiwan on Monday heading a delegation of around 40 people for a four-day visit at the invitation of Legislative Speaker Han Kuo-yu. Along with meeting with representatives from the K-M-T and the D-P-P, Vystrcil is also slated to hold talks with President Lai Ching-te and other senior government officials this week. MOHW announces that foreign professionals and dependents eligible for long-term care services The Ministry of Health says foreign professionals and their dependents will soon be eligible for long-term care services. According to the ministry, the move means foreign professionals with permanent residency status along with their spouses, children under the age of 18 will have access to the services beginning June 30. Foreign professionals with permanent residency, dependants aged 65 or over or with disabilities will also be eligible. However, eligibilty only applies to those who have legally lived in Taiwan for 10 cumulative years and spent at least 183 days per year here. The health ministry says the move is expected to benefit (造福) between 100 to 200 people. Israel UltraOrthodox Protests Against Military Enlistment Tens of thousands of ultra-Orthodox Israelis have demonstrated across the country against mandatory military enlistment. On Monday, they blocked roads and trains, lit cars on fire, and attacked a soldier. Police struggled to control the crowds with water cannons and horses. The protest disrupted highways and public transportation in Jerusalem and Tel Aviv. Military service is compulsory for most Jewish men and women in Israel, but ultra-Orthodox parties have historically secured exemptions. Israel is currently maintaining a simultaneous (同時) military presence in Gaza, Lebanon and Syria, in addition to fighting a war with Iran, which has stretched its robust military to the breaking point. The issue is tearing apart Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s governing coalition, possibly moving elections up by several weeks this fall after the ultra-Orthodox parties withdrew their support for Netanyahu. Anthropic files for IPO The artificial intelligence company Anthropic says it has filed paperwork for an initial public offering, setting the stage for a blockbuster IPO possibly later this year. The maker of the chatbot Claude will be competing (競爭) with rival OpenAI, as well as SpaceX, both of which are also planning to go public. Ira Spitzer reports from San Francisco. 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 139-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 44,872 on turnover of 22.5-billion N-T. The market closed up over 1,000 points to hit another a new high on Friday as buying focused on the bellwether electronics sector amid continued A-I enthusiasm ahead of this week's Computex. Summer electricity rates take effect today - pushing up average bills up Tai-Power's summer electricity rates for residential customers (顧客) kick-in today. It means that the average household can be expected to pay about 446 N-T more per month through the end of September. According to Tai-Power, the seasonal rates will apply to about 15-million residential and small commercial users from today through September 30. Around 26,000 high-voltage and extra-high-voltage users are subject to summer rates from May 16 to October 15. Based on data from last year, the average monthly household electricity bill rose to 1,084 N-T during the summer, nearly 70-per cent higher than in non-summer months. Taipei Zoo marks World Parrot Day, The Taipei Zoo has marked World Parrot Day with a special educational event featuring a sulphur-crested cockatoo. The zoo used the occasion to urge the public not to abandon pet parrots and to reject the illegal wildlife trade. According to the zoo, parrots are popular companion animals because of their colorful plumage (全身羽毛), ability to mimic sounds and strong learning skills, but demand from the pet market has also fueled illegal capture and trade, threatening wild populations. To raise public awareness, the zoo held a pop-up educational session in the Children's area, with a sulphur-crested cockatoo serving as a "teaching assistant" to help visitors learn about parrot behavior and social habits. Israeli Forces Kill Palestinian Man at West Bank Barrier Israeli forces have shot and killed a Palestinian man at a barrier (障礙物) separating the West Bank from Jerusalem, according to the Palestinian Health Ministry. The man, 26 years old, was shot in the thigh on Sunday and later died at a hospital in Ramallah. He was attempting to cross into Israel for work due to an economic crisis in the West Bank. Many Palestinians have tried to enter Israel illegally for jobs, especially after access was restricted following the war in Gaza. Unemployment has surged and many have been killed or arrested. US Detention Center Curfew After ICE Clashes From the US…. Newark's mayor has a curfew (宵禁) around an immigration detention center in New Jersey after clashes between protesters and ICE. AP correspondent Julie Walker reports Colombia Presidential Election Results Contested Iván Cepeda has refused to immediately accept the result of the first round of voting in Colombia's presidential election, after falling behind tough-on-crime outsider Aberaldo de la Espriella. Cepeda and de la Espriella are slated to head to a run-off election June. But Cepeda is now claiming without evidence that foreign actors (參與者、行動者) manipulated the results of the election. Cepeda said he was waiting for electoral authorities to scrutinise the results before accepting the election. 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 179-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 43,815 on turnover of $16.3-billion N-T. Taipei logs hottest May temperature on record at 38.3°C The Central Weather Administration says data shows temperatures at the Taipei weather station hit 38.3-degrees on Wednesday afternoon - marking the hottest May temperature ever recorded by the station since it was established in 1896. According to the administration's forecast center, the temperature was recorded shortly before 3PM at the station in Taipei's Zhongzheng District. It surpassed the previous May record of 38.2 degrees, which was set twice, on May 28, 2021 and May 27, 2018. The forecast center is attributed the extreme heat to the combined effects of a Pacific high-pressure system, reduced cloud cover and descending (下降) air currents brought by southwesterly winds, which pushed temperatures higher across the Taipei Basin. The highest temperature on Wednesday islandwide was recorded in Tainan's Yujing District, where the mercury hit 39.8-degrees. Report: US & Iran reach initial agreement The US and Iran have reached an agreement to extend (延長) the ceasefire and open nuclear talks, according to the American news outlet Axios. However, US President Donald Trump reportedly still needs to agree to the plan. Nick Harper reports from Washington. UN Sexual Violence Report Includes Israeli and Russian Forces An annual United Nations report documenting sexual violence in conflicts worldwide has included Israeli forces for the first time since the review began more than 15 years ago for their treatment of Palestinian detainees. Russian armed and security forces were also blacklisted for the first time this year for sexual violence against prisoners of war and civilians detained during the war in Ukraine. Israel and Russia both deny the accusations (指控). The 35-page report was shared by the Israeli mission to the U.N. late Thursday ahead of its expected release Friday. The report says the number of cases of sexual violence in conflicts rose sharply in 2025 from 2024. Both Israel and Russia were warned in last year's report by U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres that they could be put on the list. The ambassadors of both countries expressed outrage at their inclusion and lashed out at Guterres. Canada on US New Partnership Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney is calling for a new partnership with the United States. He is making the comments just weeks before President Donald Trump decides on whether to renew the free trade agreement between the countries. Carney says there should be a “true partnership” that reimagines cooperation in specific sectors deeply challenged by global competition. But warned “we live in a world where integration has been weaponized (武器化)” and noted that is why Canada is diversifying away from the U.S. and signing trade deals with countries around the world. Carney made a speech at the Economic Club of New York. 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 down this morning from yesterday's close, at 44,240 on turnover of 12.7-billion NT. The market closed above the 44,000-point mark for the first time on Wednesday after the bellwether electronics sector rebounded following a rally on Wall Street overnight led by US tech stocks. Nvidia's Jensen Huang touts Taiwan as being the 'epicenter of AI revolution' Visiting Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang is describing Taiwan as being the "epicenter (中心) of the AI revolution" and at the center of nearly everything his company does. Huang made the statement at a company employee gathering celebrating Nvidia's planned Taiwan headquarters at the Beitou-Shilin Technology Park in Taipei. Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an also attended the event, at which he presented Huang with a Key to the City to welcome Nvidia to Taipei. Chiang told attendees that the world is watching how Nvidia shapes the future of A-I and Taipei was proud to be part of that future. Construction of the new Nvidia headquarters is scheduled to begin at the end of this year and be completed in 2030. Canada Day celebrations to mark 159th birthday set for late June And, The Canadian Trade Office in Taipei has announced that Canada Day celebrations will be taking place at the Hakka Cultural Park in Taipei once again this year on June 27. According to the office, the festival has become "a very important celebration not just for Canadians living in Taiwan, but also for people in Taipei and throughout Taiwan who travel to the capital to join the festivities (節慶活動)." Celebration Canada festival is free and will be taking place from 1 to 9PM on Saturday June 27. The annual Taipei event has long been touted as being the largest Canada Day celebration outside of Canada. White House dismisses Iranian reports of draft deal as Trump says he doesn't care about the midterms Iran’s state TV says Tehran has obtained a draft of an unofficial framework for a memorandum of understanding with the U.S. to end the war. But the White House has dismissed the report as a complete fabrication (純屬虛構) and during a cabinet meeting President Trump expressed indifference (冷漠) to the political pressure caused by the unpopularity of the conflict. Kate Fisher reports from Washington Brazil Announces Highway Investment Brazil’s government has announced a $75 million investment in the BR-319 highway, a move environmentalists fear could speed up Amazon deforestation (森林砍伐). President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva claims it will be the most environmentally advanced road in the world. The highway, linking Amazonas and Rondonia, remains mostly unpaved since its 1976 inauguration. The government also unveiled an environmental protection plan that includes monitoring and conservation units. Critics argue the project lacks necessary safeguards and could worsen deforestation. The Amazon, the world’s largest rainforest, plays a critical role in regulating the global climate. The road cuts through one of the biome’s (生態群系) most well-preserved regions, home to dozens of protected areas and Indigenous territories. 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 316-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 43,842 on turnover of 26.4-billion N-T. The market lost ground on Tuesday, as Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing's share price fell from its day's high on technical corrections after a recent rally, pushing the broader market to negative territory - despite it briefly breaching the 44,000 point mark. Ex-Czechia official to speak at democracy forum in Taipei Former foreign ministers from the Czech Republic and the Philippines will be speaking at the inaugural Forum for Democratic Cooperation in Taipei today. The event has been organized by the Forum 2000 Foundation and has received government backing here from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Speaking to reporters in Taipei, foundation executive director, Jakub Klepal, said Taiwan was chosen as the forum's first stop given the growth of A-I and the restructuring (重組) of the global economy, in which Taiwan plays crucial roles. The Forum 2000 Foundation was created by the late Czech President Vaclav Havel and seeks to get democratic actors to address shared challenges in "an increasingly contested global environment." CWA heat alerts remain in effect The Central Weather Administration says hot weather is expected across Taiwan once again today. "Red" heat alerts - meaning maximum temperature could reaches 38-degrees for three consecutive days - have been issued for the Tainan and Pingtung areas. "Orange" heat alerts are in effect in Keelung, Taipei, New Taipei, Changhua, Yunlin, Chiayi, Kaohsiung, Hualien and Taitung - where the mercury could reach a daily maximum temperature of 38-degrees today, or reach 36-degrees for three consecutive days. While a "yellow" heat alert has been issued for Taoyuan - where the temperatures is forecast to reach 36-degrees today. All of the heat alerts are currently (現在) in effect through this afternoon. NASA announces next steps for planned 'moon base' The US space agency NASA has unveiled plans for a permanent (常駐) base on the moon, with the first missions set to launch later this year. The announcement comes just days after China sent three astronauts into orbit as part of its own push to reach the lunar surface by 2030. Ira Spitzer has more. Canada Germany on Possible Deal to Export LNG A person familiar with the matter says Canada has reached a deal to export liquefied natural gas to Germany from a planned Pacific Coast terminal. The official confirmed Canada will sign the agreement with Germany’s leading utility company "Securing Energy for Europe", from a proposed (建議的，提議的) export facility on the coast of British Columbia. The official spoke on condition of anonymity as they were not authorized to speak ahead of today’s announcement. The official said up to million metric tons of liquefied natural gas per year will be exported. Prime Minister Mark Carney has set a goal to double non-U.S. trade in a decade. 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 64-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 43,708 on turnover of 16.2-billion N-T. The market closed sharply higher on Monday as the main board registered its fifth ever largest point gain amid continuing investor interest in A-I development related stocks and decreasing concerns over the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Lawmakers set to visit Dongsha Island A group of lawmakers are set to visit the Dongsha Island in the South China Sea this summer. If the trip takes place, it will mark the first visit the island by lawmakers in eight years. K-M-T lawmaker Liao Hsien-hsiang says the trip is scheduled for July 9 and lawmakers will inspect Coast Guard personnel stationed on the island and facilities at Dongsha National Park. The group will receive a briefing on the government's latest conservation (保護) and management efforts on the island, visit a water treatment plant and the Dongsha Post Office, and have a guided tour of Dongsha Wharf. Dongsha Island is located about 450 kilometers southwest of Kaohsiung. Jensen Huang to attend employee meeting in Taipei tomorrow Visiting Nvidia C-E-O Jensen Huang will be attending an employee meeting in Taipei tomorrow to celebrate the launch of the company's Taiwan headquarters project. According to Nvidia, the event will be taking place at the the site of the company's planned headquarters at the Beitou-Shilin Technology Park. Known as the Nvidia Constellation, the headquarters will be located on the T-17 and T-18 plots in the technology park, which is located the Taipei's Beitou District. Nvidia has reportedly not yet applied for a construction permit for the site, but the Taipei City Construction Management Office says landowners or developers can still hold ceremonial (儀式的) groundbreaking events without formal approval. Pope calls for regulation of AI Pope Leo the fourteenth is calling for the robust (強壯的) regulation of AI in a manifesto that touches on the future of humanity. AP correspondent Paolo Santalucia reports. That was Paolo Santalucia. Brazil Commits Funds for Ecological Investment The Brazilian government has committed $617.5 million to boost ecological investment in the Amazon. Eight banks have pledged an additional $2 billion. Announced Monday, this funding supports sustainable tourism, infrastructure and the bioeconomy. The Eco Invest program, designed to reduce investment risks, has already committed $28 billion. Brazil aims for net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. However, recent legislative moves threaten (威脅) environmental policies. The lower house approved bills that weaken efforts against illegal deforestation. These measures still need Senate approval. Despite setbacks, Brazil's environment minister insists the country remains committed to reducing deforestation. 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 399-points this morning from Friday's close, at 42,667 on turnover of 27.5-billion N-T. The market gained ground on Friday to rebound to back over the 42,000 point mark following a losing run - as regional markets advanced following modest gains on Wall Street overnight after pressure from the bond market eased and oil prices fell. Lai touts his child allowance proposal during visit to Chiayi temple President Lai Ching-te has been touting (宣傳) his proposal to boost childcare benefits and increases to farmers’ allowances. Speaking during a visit to the Wangling Temple in Chiayi County, Lai said families will receive 5,000 N-T per month for each child from birth through the age of 18 starting from next January. According to Lai, that will ensure (確保) that payments for each child between those ages will reach 1.08-million N-T by adulthood if payments continue through the full period. Lai said parents will be advised to set aside part of the allowance for the children's college or future business plans. THSR original schedule cancelled from 8AM due to signal problems The High Speed ​​Rail Corporation cancelled it regular scheduled trains at 8AM today following a signal malfunction on Miaoli section of line. According to the network operator, three trains are running per hour and will depart from Nangang Station southbound and Zuoying Station northbound, stopping at each station. Departure times from the terminal stations are on the hour, 20 minutes past the hour, and 40 minutes past the hour. The High Speed ​​Rail Corporation says signal anomaly occurred during pre-operational preparations (準備工作) earlier this morning and repairs are ongoing and it will release updates on the status of services when they are available. US Downplays Hopes for Iran Deal U.S. leader Donald Trump said he had told his representatives not to rush (急速行進) into any deal with Iran, as his administration played down ​hopes of an imminent breakthrough in the three-month-old war that had been raised a day earlier. Trump indicated the U.S. blockade on Iranian ships in the Strait of Hormuz would "remain in full force and effect until ‌an agreement is reached, certified, and signed." Joe Federman has details. That was Joe Federman. Madrid Protests Against Rising Housing Costs Thousands have rallied in central Madrid against spiraling housing costs that have priced many Spaniards out of the market. Protesters chanted slogans and held banners highlighting their right to housing. The country has a tradition of homeownership and limited public housing (公共住宅), with rents driven up by tourism and immigration. Last month, Spain’s government passed a 7 billion euro plan to build more public housing. However, a decree to extend temporary rent freezes did not pass Parliament. 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 80-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 41,448 on turnover of $12.8-billion N-T. The market rebouded on Thursday after losing ground for five consecutive sessions following a solid earning's report from Nvidia, which lifted investor interest in tech stocks. Taiwan targets 100,000 monthly drone output and export growth The Ministry of Economic Affairs says the island's drone industry is expected to expand significantly (顯著地) by 2030. According to the ministry's Industrial Development Administration, Taiwan's drone output value grew 2.5-fold last year to 12.9-billion N-T under a government program to develop the unmanned vehicle sector. The administration says current monthly drone production capacity is about 15,000 units, but the industry can quickly scale-up as demand increases, This means capacity is projected to exceed 100,000 units per month by 2030 and 50-per cent of that total will be exported. Exports of Taiwan-made drones currently account for just over 20-per cent. The top buyers are the Czech Republic, Poland and the United States. Elderly anteater missing from Taipei Zoo The Taipei Zoo is asking for public help in finding a lesser anteater that escaped from its enclosure (圍起來的區域) earlier in the week. According to the zoo, the anteater has not been seen since Monday and 65 staff members have been searching for the 12-year-old animal. She was last seen on surveillance cameras around 6:55PM on Monday near a visitor walkway in a bromeliad garden. Zookeepers are speculating that a banana tree inside the enclosure may have snapped under the animal's weight while she was climbing, creating a "bridge" to an adjacent artificial rock formation, allowing her to escape. The zoo says lesser anteaters are nocturnal and tend to hide in dense vegetation during the day, which makes the search efforts difficult. The searches so far have been focused on the zoo's rainforest zone, nearby trails, and hillsides around the giant panda exhibit. Israel Releases Gaza Flotilla Activists Israel says it has released and deported hundreds of activists who took part in a flotilla attempting to breach Israel's naval blockade (海上封鎖) of Gaza. About 420 activists placed on a flight to Turkey landed Thursday in Istanbul. The Israeli Foreign Ministry said all foreign activists had been deported. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered the deportations after criticizing Israel's national security minister for taunting detained activists. The flotilla, with over 50 boats, left from Turkey to draw attention to Gaza's conditions. US House to vote on limiting Trump's Iran war power The US House of Representatives is expected to vote on legislation that would severely (程度很深，嚴重) limit president Donald Trump’s ability to continue to wage war against Iran. A similar war powers resolution passed the Senate earlier this week. Nick Harper reports from Washington. Mexico US Homeland Security Sec Visiting Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum said that she and the U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin agreed to maintain bilateral cooperation rooted in mutual respect. Mullin's two-day Mexico visit follows tensions over the deaths of two CIA agents at Mexico’s northern border and U.S. indictments against 10 Mexican officials. Sheinbaum's administration has emphasized cooperation while maintaining sovereignty. Mullin, who assumed the position in March after Kristi Noem’s departure (離開), is also scheduled to meet with Mexico’s Security Cabinet. 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 242-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 40,263 on turnover of 14.-billion N-T. The market lost ground for a fifth consecutive session on Wednesday, after Wall Street stumbled overnight and gave back more of its record-setting rally as invertors shunned tech stocks. CDC raises Ebola travel advisory for DRC and Uganda The Centers for Disease Control has raised the level of its Ebola travel advisory for Congo and Uganda and is urging hospitals and doctors clinics to ask patients about their travel and exposure history. The C-D-C has raised its travel advisory for Congo and Uganda from "watch" to the second-level "alert." That advisory level urges travelers to "take enhanced precautionary (預防性的) measures" in regions experiencing Ebola outbreaks. However, the C-D-C is stressing that it considers the Ebola outbreak's threat to Taiwan relatively low. Detection of hidden camera in Taichung store triggers more inspections Taichung Mayor Lu Shiow-yen says inspections of retail spaces will extend to 17 big-box and department stores starting from tomorrow. The statement comes after a camera invading customers' privacy (隱私) was found in a fitting room at a local store. According to Lu, citywide inspections for illegal hidden cameras had previously focused on cosmetic surgery clinics, sports facilities with changing rooms, and saunas .. .. but they will now be expanded to department stores and other big-box stores with fitting rooms, as they could be "hot spots" for covert filming. The move is in response to the discovery of a surveillance camera pointing toward a mirror inside a fitting room at the Under Armour store in Mitsui Shopping Park LaLaport in Taichung. US indicts former Cuban president Raul Castro The US Justice Department has field criminal charges against Raúl Castro, the 94-year-old former president of Cuba. He’s been charged with murder and a conspiracy (陰謀) to kill U.S. citizens stemming from the fatal downing of two planes 30 years ago. Kate Fisher reports from Washington UN Votes for Climate Change Resolution The U.N. General Assembly has voted overwhelmingly to support strong action to prevent climate change. The 193-member world body approved a nonbinding resolution Wednesday endorsing the landmark advisory opinion by the U.N.’s top court last July that called failure by countries to protect the planet from climate change a violation of international law. The measure was opposed by the U.S., Russia, Iran and Saudi Arabia — some of the highest oil-producing nations and major emitters (發出者) of greenhouse gas. The text includes adopting a national climate action plan to limit global temperature rise to below 1.5 degrees Celsius, phasing out subsidies for fossil fuel exploration, production and exploitation (開發利用, 不公平地使用); and urging those in violation to provide “full reparation” for damage. The U.N. resolution had initially included stronger language from the International Court of Justice opinion that called for establishing an “International Register of Damage” to record evidence and claims, but it was removed after nearly a dozen consultations in order to receive more support. 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 opens higher The Tai-Ex opened higher (開高) this morning. It was up 28 points at 40,204. Turnover (成交量) was 9.1-billion NT. The market fell on Tuesday for a fourth day in a row. Investors sold tech shares because of worries about the war with Iran. Some investors moved their money into non-tech shares (科技股). ---- Government to expand parental leave and family support measures Premier Cho Jung-tai has announced new plans to help families. The measures are aimed at Taiwan's falling birth rate (出生率). They include longer parental leave (育嬰假) and tax breaks (稅務優惠) on housing for parents. Cho says the government wants to support children from birth to age 18. The plan would cover childbirth, child care and education. It is expected to go to the Cabinet for approval on May 28. ---- CDC confirms first mpox clade Ib case  The Centers for Disease Control has confirmed (證實) the first m-pox clade Ib case in Taiwan. Officials say the case was imported (境外移入病例). It involves a man in his 20s. Another new mpox case this month involves a man in his 40s in northern Taiwan. The CDC says neither man had been vaccinated (已接種疫苗) against mpox. Mpox became a notifiable disease in Taiwan in 2022. ---- Israeli Airstrikes in Lebanon Leave Over Dozen Dead Lebanon's Health Ministry says Israeli airstrikes (空襲) in southern Lebanon have killed at least 19 people. The dead include four women and three children. The strikes come as fighting continues between Israel and Hezbollah. That is despite a U.S.-brokered ceasefire (停火). Israel says it is targeting Hezbollah infrastructure. Hezbollah is both a militant group and a powerful political group in Lebanon. More than one million people in Lebanon have been displaced (流離失所的). ---- US government drops tax claims against Trump as part of IRS lawsuit deal The U.S. government has agreed to drop tax claims (稅務索賠) against President Donald Trump. The deal is part of Trump's 10-billion U.S. dollar lawsuit (訴訟) against the IRS. The lawsuit is about the leak of Trump's tax returns. The settlement (和解協議) could protect Trump from more review of his finances. It also creates a fund of nearly 1.8-billion U.S. dollars. The money would go to people who say they were targeted for political reasons. Kate Fisher reports from Washington. ---- 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 lower this morning from yesterday's close, at 40,883 on turnover of 11-billion N-T. The market lost ground on Monday, as investors reacted to a decline on Wall Streeet at the end of last week and opted to shun big tech stocks. With analysts saying the decline cames as the market is pulling back from recent record highs and moving into consolidation mode. MOFA talks hopes for Trump to talk with Lai Deputy Foreign Minister Chen Ming-chi says the government would welcome a direct call between U-S President Donald Trump and President Lai Ching-te. The statement comes as Chen told reporters that Trump's recent remarks that arms sales to Taiwan could be used as a bargaining chip with China and he was still undecided on new arms ​sales to the island. Trump also appeared to suggest that he was seeking to speak with Lai about the issue - albeit (雖然，儘管) without actually naming him. According to Chen, Trump's remarks had "caused some unnecessary concern" in Taiwan, despite the ​government believing that "nothing has changed." The deputy foreign minister is also stressing that the government is seeking confirmation from Washington about whether Trump wants to speak to Lai and is also using all available channels to understand what the U-S side is actually thinking. Taiwan students win eight awards at world robotics competition Taiwan students have won eight awards at this year's Robofest World Competition - which took place at the Lawrence Technological University in Michigan. They bagged two gold medals, one silver, and one bronze at the international robotics competition. Dozens of Taiwanese elementary, junior high, and senior high school students competed against teams from 25 countries. Taiwan's representative office in Chicago has presented congratulatory messages to the award-winning students, commending (讚揚) their dedication (奉獻、投注（時間、精力等）) and encouraging them to continue striving for excellence in their future endeavors. Israel Intercepts Flotilla Headed to Gaza The Israeli military has intercepted boats in international waters off the coast of Cyprus, part of a flotilla attempting to break Israel's naval blockade of Gaza. More than 50 vessels departed from Turkey last week. Organizers say the boats were intercepted Monday 250 nautical miles from Gaza's shores. Cypriot authorities confirmed the interceptions on Monday took place outside its territorial waters. Israel's Foreign Ministry called the flotilla a provocation (挑釁) while Turkey condemned the intervention as piracy. The blockade has been in effect since 2007, restricting movement in and out of Gaza. Previous attempts to breach the blockade have failed. Organizers hope to draw attention to Gaza's living conditions. Tanzania's President, Dangote hold talks in Dar es Salaam amid refinery debate Tanzania’s President held investment talks in Dar es Salaam amid growing regional competition over a refinery project’s location (地點). Isaac Lukando reports. Mexico Uruguay Aid Arrives in Cuba A ship carrying humanitarian aid from Mexico and Uruguay has arrived in Havana to help ease Cuba’s spiriling crises. The ship, which left from a Mexican port, includes food and personal hygiene items, according to a government statement. Cuba’s food industry minister says the aid arrives during a time of great economic hardship, worsened by the U.S. blockade. The aid will prioritize children, the elderly, and vulnerable (易受影響的，易受傷害的) families. Cuba’s economic and electric crises have deepened this year after the U.S. invaded Venezuela in January, halting (停頓) critical oil shipments. A severe gas shortage and widespread blackouts continue across the island. 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 76-points this morning from Friday's close, at 41,095 on turnover of 9.8-billion N-T. The market lost 1.39-per cent on Friday after falling back close to the 41,000 point mark, as U-S President Donald Trump wrapped up his summit in Beijing with China's Xi Jinping. FM in Geneva for WHA sidelines events Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung will be attending events organized by the government and N-G-O's in Geneva this week to coincide with the upcoming World Health Assembly. The trip means that Lin is Taiwan's first top diplomat to have visited the Swiss city during the annual meeting of the global health body. Lin says he has already attended two events there with Health Minister Shih Chung-liang. Taking to Facebook, the foreign minister said he attended an annual symposium organized by the European Federation of Taiwan Health Alliance and a banquet (宴會) hosted by the health ministers and permanent representatives of allied nations in Geneva. Taiwan's representative office in Geneva, says Lin and Shih also held a press event on Sunday to release a government-produced promotional video calling for Taiwan's inclusion in the W-H-A. Japan variety goods chain 3coins to open 1st shop in Taiwan in August And, Japanese discount variety goods chain, 3 coins, is slated to open its first outlet here in Taiwan in August. The company says its first store will open in an Eslite Spectrum outlet located on Wuchang Street in Taipei's Ximending business district. 3coins' has a pricing strategy in Japan of charging only 300 Japanese yen, or about 60 N-T for most of the products it displays The retailer provides a wide range of products, from kitchenware to cosmetics and beauty goods, and seasonal (季節性的) merchandise. Competing Discount Japanese variety chain, Daiso, opened its first shop in Taiwan in the early 2000s. Ukraine conducts large-scale drone strikes on Russia, killing 4 and wounding a dozen others Ukraine conducts large-scale drone strikes on Russia, killing 4 and wounding a dozen others. AP correspondent Julie Walker reports Canada Confirms Hantavirus in One from Cruise Canada's national health agency confirms that one of four Canadians returning from a cruise ship with a hantavirus outbreak has tested positive. The Public Health Agency of Canada announced the positive test Sunday, following initial reports from the public health officer for the province of British Columbia. The individual, part of a couple in their 70s from the Yukon, is hospitalized in Victoria. The other three travelers are also in isolation. The outbreak on the cruise ship MV Hondius has resulted in three deaths and 10 confirmed cases. The agency states the risk to the general Canadian population remains (保持) low and is working with the World Health Organization on the investigation. Oldest Surviving English Poem Discovered Researchers in Dublin have uncovered the oldest surviving English poem in a Roman library. The poem, "Caedmon’s Hymn," was composed in Old English by a Northumbrian worker in the seventh century. It appears within the Latin text "Ecclesiastical (教會的) History of the English People" by the monk known as the Venerable Bede. The discovery highlights the diffusion of the English language centuries earlier than previously believed. The manuscript had a complex history, traveling across Europe and the Atlantic before being found in Rome's public library. The library's digitization (數位化) efforts may lead to more discoveries. 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 79-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 41,830 on turnover of $17.7-billion N-T. The market closed higher on Thursday as the electronics sector was in focus, but the gains were capped by technical resistance ahead of the 42,000-point mark - as the main board followed a rally on Wall Street overnight, led by large-cap AI-related electronics stocks. Taipei Zoo otter arrives in New Zealand for conservation program The Taipei Zoo says one of its Asian small-clawed otters has arrived at New Zealand's Auckland Zoo to participate in an international conservation program aimed at contributing to biodiversity. According to the zoo, the otter departed for Auckland on Tuesday evening to participate in the program, which is being coordinated by the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria. The program selected the Taiwan-born otter to help conserve the Asian small-clawed otter population by contributing to genetic diversity through its transfer (搬遷) to the New Zealand zoo. The otter is currently undergoing quarantine procedures in Auckland, after which it will join the zoo's Asian small-clawed otter family. The Asian small-clawed otter is the smallest otter species and is commonly found in the wetlands, rivers, and lakes of Southeast and South Asia. It is listed as "vulnerable" on the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List of Threatened Species. Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister says India's mediator role would be welcome Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister says he told top Indian officials that Tehran would welcome any diplomatic initiative (新措施) by New Delhi regarding the West Asia war. This comes as the Foreign Ministers of BRICS nations, which include India, Russia, China, Iran, and the UAE are meeting in New Delhi. Ishan Garg tells us more. Bolivia Clashes Erupt as Miners Protest in Capital Clashes have erupted in Bolivia's capital as police use tear gas to disperse miners trying to breach the government palace. The miners set off small dynamite charges, a tactic that's become common during this second week of nationwide unrest. The unrest challenges President Rodrigo Paz, who was sworn in late last year, marking a new era after nearly 20 years of one-party rule. Thousands of miners descended (降臨) on downtown La Paz to demand labor reforms and fuel. As the hours passed, they began chanting for the president’s resignation. Blockades and marches have paralyzed the Bolivian capital in recent days. Austria Eurovision Heads into Finale The Eurovision Song Contest final lineup is set after Thursday's second semifinal. Fifteen countries competed for 10 spots in Saturday's finale, with votes from national juries and viewers worldwide deciding the outcome. Denmark, Australia, and Bulgaria are among those advancing. The U.K., France, Germany, Italy, and host Austria automatically qualify. Political tensions are clouding the pan-continental pop contest, with protests against Israel's participation and a five-country boycott. Despite challenges, Eurovision plans to expand with a spinoff (分支，番外篇) in Asia later this year. Organizers also hope Hungary will return to the contest for the first time since 2016. 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 121-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 41,496 on turnover of 18.4-billion N-T. The market moved sharply lower on Wednesday, as the bellwether electronics sector was dragged down following losses by U-S tech companies on Wall Street overnight amid a surge in inflation in America. Gov't touts Taiwan as a full APEC member The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is insisting that Taiwan remains a full APEC member. It comes after China's Taiwan Affairs Office said Taiwan's participation in the forum is conducted under the "one-China principle." China is hosting this year's APEC events. The foreign ministry here in Taipei says Taiwan formally became a full APEC member economy in 1991 under the name "Chinese Taipei" through the signing of an accession (正式加入) MOU. The ministry is also calling on Beijing to "fulfill its duties and commitments as APEC host in accordance with APEC guidelines, standards, and practices." Taipei expands rat control measures, seeks national monitoring model And, The Taipei City Government's Department of Environmental Protection says its stepping up efforts against rodent infestations by expanding tracking methods … .. while also call central government to establish a unified national monitoring system to better assess (評估) pest control effectiveness. According to the department, until such a system is established, the city will expand its use of the "trap-night" method, while also tracking active rat burrows and public reports as indicators of infestation trends. The department also says it currently has more than 80 disinfection specialists, each assisted by one or two cleaning workers, which should be sufficient to meet current demand. Russia Launches Massive Drone Attack on Ukraine Russia has launched a massive daytime drone attack on Ukraine, firing at least 800 drones across 20 regions of the country. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy says at least six people were killed and dozens wounded, including children. Wednesday’s targets included the cities of Kyiv, Lviv and Odesa. Zelenskyy is warning of possible cruise and ballistic missile attacks by Moscow following the drone barrage (猛烈的攻擊). U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin have suggested the war could be nearing an end. However, they provided no evidence or details to support those statements. BRICS Foreign Ministers meet in New Delhi amid internal rift BRICS foreign ministers are arriving in India today ahead of a key meeting later this week - with the grouping facing fresh internal strain. The Iran conflict is casting a shadow over the bloc - even as New Delhi looks to keep the focus on economic cooperation and Global South priorities. Ishan Garg reports from New Delhi. UK King Outlines Gov Plans King Charles III has outlined the British government's legislative plans as Prime Minister Keir Starmer faces pressure to stay in power. In a ceremonial speech to Parliament, the king emphasized the U.K.'s focus on energy policy, defense, and national security amid the conflicts in Iran and Ukraine. He also pledged action against antisemitism, highlighting British values of decency (正直) and tolerance. Starmer's leadership is under scrutiny (密切觀察，詳細檢查) after significant losses in local elections. Some Labour Party members have urged him to set a departure timetable, and Health Secretary Wes Streeting might challenge him. 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 102 points this morning from yesterday's close, at 41,795. Turnover (成交金額) stood at 12.8 billion NT. The market rose again on Tuesday after briefly reaching the 42,000-point mark. The rise was led by major electronics stocks (電子類股), after U.S. tech shares gained on Wall Street overnight. ---- Lai says obstruction of Eswatini visit proof of consolidating authoritarianism President Lai Ching-te says China’s alleged obstruction (阻撓) of his state visit to Eswatini shows that authoritarian governments are becoming more united. Lai made the comments in a pre-recorded speech for the Copenhagen Democracy Summit. He said the world is now at an important turning point in the competition between democracy and authoritarianism (威權主義). Lai said authoritarian governments are using military threats, economic pressure, cyberattacks, and grey zone tactics. He said these actions are creating serious challenges for peace, stability, and democracy. Lai also said China is willing to damage aviation safety and order for political reasons. ---- CDC to purchase over 7-million trivalent flu vaccines  The Centers for Disease Control says it plans to buy more than 7 million trivalent (三價的) flu vaccine doses (疫苗劑量) this year. That is 35,000 more doses than last year. The CDC says the vaccines will include about 6.85 million standard flu vaccine doses and about 200,000 enhanced immune-response vaccine doses. This is the first time the CDC has bought enhanced immune-response flu vaccines for the government-funded immunization program (免疫接種計畫). The vaccines are being bought from GSK, Sanofi, Adimmune, and TTY Biopharm. The first phase of the free government flu vaccine program will begin as usual on October 1. ---- Lebanon Militant Group Calls for Withdrawal from Israel Talks The leader of the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah is calling on Lebanon to withdraw (退出) from direct talks with Israel. Naim Kassem said the talks are a concession (讓步). He said Lebanon should hold indirect talks instead, through a third party. Lebanon and Israel are set to hold another round of talks in Washington starting Thursday. The talks will focus on how to end the war and discuss future relations. Although the U.S. helped arrange a ceasefire (停火) on April 17, Hezbollah and Israel have continued to attack each other every day. Hezbollah confirmed that one of its commanders was killed in an airstrike near Beirut last week. Lebanon’s health minister says 380 people have been killed since the ceasefire. That brings the total death toll to more than 2,800 since the war began in March. ---- Modi heads to UAE and Europe with energy and trade on agenda Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is visiting the Middle East and Europe this week. The trip is being seen as one of his most important diplomatic visits (外交行程) of the year. Energy and trade (貿易) are expected to be major topics during the trip. Ishan Garg has more from New Delhi. ---- Eurovision Down to Final 10 Ten countries have moved on to the Eurovision Song Contest final after the first semifinal (準決賽). They include Finland, one of the favorites, and Israel. Israel’s participation has led five countries to boycott (抵制) the contest. Israeli singer Noam Bettan heard both cheers and protest shouts when he performed the rock ballad "Michelle." Moldova, Croatia, and Sweden also made it to the final. Estonia, Georgia, Montenegro, Portugal, and San Marino were eliminated. The second semifinal will be held Thursday. Pro-Palestinian demonstrators (示威者) are planning to protest Israel’s participation before Saturday’s final. 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 90-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 41,880 on turnover of 18.5-billion N-T. The market closed higher once again on Monday, but the gains were muted after Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing saw losses following a the Wall Street Journal report that Apple could shift its orders to Intel. Statute of limitations for child sex crimes to be extended The Ministry of Health has announced draft amendments to Sexual Assault Crime Prevention Act and the Child and Youth Sexual Exploitation Prevention Act. According to the ministry, the planned revisions seek to change the starting point for the statute of limitations in sexual assault cases involving minors to when a victim turns 20. The head of the ministry's Department of Protective Services says the proposed amendments are aimed at ensuring victims can seek justice after gaining a better understanding of their victimization (受害) and having greater resources to speak out. Under current regulations, the statute of limitations begins from the date the offense was committed, making it difficult for victims abused as minors to pursue legal action after reaching adulthood. Taipei conducting 5-day cleaning drive to counter 'rat problem' The Taipei City government is continuing a cleaning and sanitation (衛生) drive across all 12 administrative districts this week, as it seeks to combat concerns about recent increases in rat sightings. According to the city government, the cleaning drive that began last Friday in Zhongshan District is is now being expanded to other city districts through Thursday. City officials say sanitation work will focus on Nangang, Wenshan and Neihu districts today. It will continue tomorrow in Songshan, Daan and Xinyi districts, before concluding on Thursday in Shilin and Beitou districts. US Passengers exposed to Hantavirus arrive back in US US health officials say eighteen passengers from a cruise ship linked to a hantavirus outbreak have now been flown back to the US and placed under monitoring. One passenger who tested positive for the rare virus strain is being treated in a biocontainment (生物隔離) unit. Ira Spitzer has more. Indigenous Orgs Urg UN Protections Against Organized Crime Indigenous organizations from across the Amazon and Latin America have sent a letter to the United Nations warning that organized crime — including illegal mining, drug trafficking and logging — is driving violence and environmental destruction in Indigenous territories. The groups urged governments to avoid heavily militarized responses and instead strengthen Indigenous-led protections. Leaders from Peru’s Amazon warned criminal networks are increasingly recruiting Indigenous youth, exploiting girls and expanding influence in remote communities where state presence is weak. Signatories say the expansion of organized crime is undermining Indigenous governance systems and threatening communities that have long acted as stewards (管理員) of some of the world’s most biodiverse ecosystems. The letter calls on the U.N. Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues to conduct a dedicated study on organized crime and illicit economies in Indigenous territories and urged U.N. agencies to include Indigenous perspectives in anti-crime and anti-corruption policies. 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 110-points this morning from Friday's close, at 41,714 on turnover of 19.5-billion N-T. The market closed lower on Friday amid re-emerging concerns over tensions in the Middle East after the U-S and Iran exchanged fire in the Strait of Hormuz. However, the main board still managed to close the day above the 41,000 point mark. ---- Taiwan's top envoy in US warn China against attacking Taiwan ahead of Trump-Xi meeting Taiwan's top envoy (最高代表) to the U-S, Alexander Yui has told Fox News that any attempt by Beijing to take Taiwan by force would severely disrupt global trade (擾亂全球貿易). According to Yui, China needs to be aware that other countries with interests in the region could respond to such an attack. Yui said the Lai administration remains open to dialogue with China, but any cross-strait talks must be based on mutual respect (相互尊重) and the US position on Taiwan remains unchanged .. ….. as peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait are beneficial to all relevant parties, including the U-S, China, Taiwan, and Japan. The interview comes as U-S President Donald Trump is slated to travel to China Wednesday evening for talks with Xi Jinping in Beijing. ---- Tuvalu delegation visiting Taiwan for tech and energy talks A delegation (代表團) led by Tuvalu's transport, energy, communications, and innovation minister has arrived in Taiwan for a five-day visit. According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Simon Kofe is leading a four-member delegation for talks on digital infrastructure (數位基礎建設), communications, and energy security (能源安全). The ministry says the delegation is slated to meet with several government agencies and private sector companies to discuss information and communications technology, digital governance, network resilience, and energy development. Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung traveled to Tuvalu in March, where he held talks with Tuvalu's Prime Minister Feleti Teo. Those talks included a submarine cable project, Taiwan-Tuvalu cooperation on digital resilience, and secure network infrastructure. ---- Remains of US soldier who went missing during military exercises in Morocco have been recovered The remains (遺骸) of one US soldier who went missing during military exercises in Morocco has been recovered (尋獲). AP's Lisa Dwyer reports. ---- Iran Nobel Laureate Transfered to Hospital Nobel Peace laureate (得主) Narges Mohammadi has been transferred to a Tehran hospital after collapsing (昏倒) in prison. Her foundation says this comes after days of pleading by her family and others. Mohammadi has been granted a prison sentence suspension on bail. She had been imprisoned since December. She lost consciousness twice and was transferred to a local hospital on May 1. Her foundation says the suspended sentence is not enough and that Mohammadi needs permanent, specialized care. The statement calls for her unconditional freedom (無條件釋放) and the dismissal of all charges. ---- French President Visting Kenya French President Emmanuel Macron has kicked off (展開) a visit to Kenya ahead of a two-day Africa Forward Summit. The gathering, which starts today, is meant to showcase France’s new policy for the continent, in what Paris describes as a partnership of equals (平等夥伴關係). The summit comes after French troops completed their withdrawal (撤軍) from West Africa last year. On Sunday, Kenya and France signed 11 agreements involving investments in various sectors, including an ambitious nuclear energy plant, modernized transport, and sustainable agriculture. ---- 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 48-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 41,886 on turnover of $11-billion N-T. The market continued to rally on Thursday - with the main board briefly surpassing the 42,000-point mark for the first time to hit yet another new intraday high, as investors were buoyed by hopes the Strait of Hormuz will soon reopen to shipping. Government seeking separate, tougher penalties for drug driving Transport Minister Chen Shih-kai says the government is considering treating drug-impaired driving as a distinct offense separate from drunk driving - potentially leading to harsher penalties. According to Chen, officials from the transport and interior ministries are scheduled to meet next Monday to discuss possible amendments to current laws, including tougher penalties and joint liability provisions for drug-impaired driving. Chen says while drug use itself is already a criminal offense, driving a vehicle under the influence of narcotics - especially when it results in injury or death - should carry tougher penalties than drunk driving. The statements come amid growing concern over a recent spate of (一連串) serious traffic accidents involving drivers under the influence of narcotics. Those incidents include a drug-driving crash on May 4 that resulted in the deaths two people. Several lawmakers have voiced their support for criminal liability for drug driving to be made different from that for drunk driving. Iran Creates Gov Agency to Control Tax Vessels in Strait Iran has created a government agency to control and tax vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz. That's according to the shipping data company Lloyd's List Intelligence, which reported the move Thursday. The Iranian effort to formalize control over the channel raised new concerns about international shipping as hundreds of commercial ships remained bottled up (圍困，困住) in the Persian Gulf, unable to reach the open sea. A spokesperson for Iran's Foreign Ministry said officials in Tehran are still reviewing messages from Pakistan, which is mediating peace proposals between the Islamic Republic with the U.S. Court strikes down Trump 10% global tariffs A US federal trade court has struck down President Donald Trump's global 10% tariff, declaring it illegal. The White House imposed (強制實行,) the rate in February after the Supreme Court ruled against the administration's Liberation Day tariffs. Nick Harper reports from Washington. El Salvador News Outlet Assets Froze Salvadoran investigative news outlet El Faro has announced that its members’ assets have been frozen. The outlet on Thursday accused the government of President Nayib Bukele of escalating political persecution. El Faro has clashed (不相容，相牴觸) with Bukele over its investigations into corruption, including alleged negotiations with gangs. Bukele, who came to power in 2019 on an anti-corruption platform, has faced criticism for cracking down on dissent. The outlet learned of the asset freeze through a bank and property registry. El Faro has been audited (查賬目) since 2020 over alleged tax evasion, which it denies. Many of its members now live in 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 121 points higher this morning at 41,259. Turnover reached $20.3 billion NT. On Wednesday, the market set more closing records. Tech stocks helped support the market after a rally (上漲) on Wall Street overnight. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing closed unchanged (持平). But investors bought other chip stocks (晶片股), which gave the market strong support. ---- MOFA says Taiwan is working with allies to build drone supply chain center The Ministry of Foreign Affairs says Taiwan is working to become the Asia-Pacific center for the democratic drone (無人機) supply chain (供應鏈). The head of MOFA's Drone Diplomacy Task Force, Chiang Zhen-wei, made the statement at the Taiwanese-German Aerospace Conference in Taipei. Chiang said Taiwan plays an important role in the global "non-red" drone supply chain because of its strong manufacturing abilities. He said the task force is using Taiwan's experience in "chip diplomacy" to help develop the drone industry. He added that drones could become an important part of Taiwan's national defense (國防). At the same time, Taiwan is working with allies and like-minded countries to promote drone-related projects. ---- Lai gives top honor to Michael Fonte for supporting Taiwan-U.S. ties President Lai Ching-te has given one of Taiwan's highest honors (榮譽) for foreign nationals (外國人士) to Michael J. Fonte. Fonte is a former head of the DPP's mission in the United States. He received the Order of Brilliant Star with Grand Cordon at a ceremony at the Presidential Office. Officials said Fonte was honored for his important work in promoting Taiwan-U.S. relations. Fonte first came to Taiwan in 1967 as a missionary (傳教士). He worked with farmers in Taichung, Changhua, and Miaoli. ---- White House says deal may be coming to end Iran conflict (衝突) U.S. President Donald Trump says talks with Iran are making progress. Reports say a one-page memo (備忘錄) is being prepared. It could help end the war in the Middle East. But Trump is also warning that he could resume (恢復) attacks on Iran. His comments came 24 hours after his Secretary of State said Operation Epic Fury had ended. Simon Marks reports from Washington. ----- Search continues for missing U.S. soldiers in Morocco More than 600 military personnel (軍事人員) from several countries are searching for two U.S. soldiers missing in Morocco. They disappeared during U.S.-African military exercises. The search is now in its fifth day. Teams are looking in underwater caves and along the Atlantic coast near the training area. Officials believe the soldiers may have been on a recreational hike (休閒健行) and may have fallen into the ocean. The African Lion military drills include more than 7,000 personnel from over 30 countries. The drills are set to end Friday. Moroccan and U.S. forces are taking part in the search, along with aircraft and vessels (船隻). 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 213 points higher this morning at 40-983. Turnover reached $21.3 billion NT On Tuesday, the market continued to set new closing records. Investors bought shares across different sectors. But gains were limited because Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing entered a period of consolidation. ---- MOFA says Paraguay president's visit shows strong ties The Ministry of Foreign Affairs says Paraguay President Santiago Pena will visit Taiwan later this week. The ministry says the visit shows that ties (關係) between Taiwan and Paraguay remain strong, despite pressure from China. Pena will lead a group of business representatives to Taiwan for a four-day visit. He will meet with President Lai Ching-te and other senior officials. Officials say the talks will focus on investment, international cooperation (合作), and ways to strengthen relations between the two sides. The visit comes after reports that Beijing has been pressuring Paraguay to cut ties with Taiwan and recognize China instead. ---- Taipei to launch new anti-rat campaign Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an says the city will launch a new round of sanitation (環境衛生) measures to deal with rat problems. The city will also introduce "rodent control specialists" to help residents. The move comes after many people posted online about seeing more rats in parts of Taipei. Chiang says households will be able to apply for a specialist to visit their home. The specialist will check for signs of rats and give advice on prevention (預防) and control. Officials say the specialists will help find where the rats are coming from, improve home environments, and support better pest control. ---- Trump pauses Project Freedom, citing progress on Iran deal U.S. President Donald Trump says the U.S. is pausing (暫停) Project Freedom. The project has involved the U.S. Navy escorting (護送) ships through the Strait of Hormuz. Trump wrote on social media that the pause is because of "great progress" on a possible deal with Iran. Nick Harper reports from Washington. ---- Princess of Wales to make first overseas trip since cancer treatment Britain's Princess of Wales will travel to Italy next week. It will be her first official overseas visit since her cancer diagnosis (診斷) and treatment. Kensington Palace says Kate will spend two days in Reggio Emilia in northern Italy. The visit will focus on her work in early childhood development. The trip will highlight the "Reggio Emilia approach." This is an educational idea that focuses on relationships, the learning environment, and the community in a child's development. Kate said in 2024 that she was receiving chemotherapy (化療) for cancer. Last year, she said she was in remission (病情緩解). She has slowly made more public appearances since then. But this will be her first overseas trip without Prince William. Early childhood development is one of Kate's main areas of work. She launched the Royal Foundation Centre for Early Childhood in 2021. ---- 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 yesterday's close, at 40,708 on turnover of 8-billion N-T. The market posted a record daily gain of more than 1,700 points on Monday to close above the 40,000-point mark for the first time. Analysts says buying in the semiconductor industry was sparked by massive spending proposed by major U-S cloud service providers last week and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing was the largest beneficiary of that on Monday .. … and saw its share price rose 6.56-per cent to close at a high of 2,275 N-T. Premier directs ministries to assist shipping companies Premier Cho Jung-tai has instructed government agencies to coordinate assistance for Taiwan shipping company whose vessels are stranded due to the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. According to the Cabinet, the directive was issues after the Ministry of Foreign Affairs released data showing of the about 1,600 vessels from various countries currently stranded (受困), eight are operated by Taiwan firms. The Cabinet says Cho has asked the Ministry of Transport to coordinate with the foreign ministry in contacting foreign governments and Taiwan shipping firms, to offer assistance measures to enable the vessels to resume normal operations as soon as possible. However, the Cabinet has not released any details concerning how such measures could be adopted. Hon Hai's 2nd generation satellites launched successfully Two second-generation satellites developed by Hon Hai has been launched successfully into orbit from the Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. According to Hon Hai, the low-Earth orbit satellites PEARL-1A and PEARL-2B have entered their intended orbits for expected on-orbit mission durations of between one to three years. The satellites have been primarily designed for payload technology verification (驗証，確認) in communication and space science. Hon Hai co-developed the satellites with the National Central University. China Fireworks Explosion State media in China says an explosion at a fireworks plant in a central Chinese province has killed at least 21 people and injured 61 others. China’s official news agency Xinhua says the blast occurred at a fireworks plant in Changsha city of Hunan province on Monday afternoon. Nearly 500 rescuers were deployed to the scene and evacuations were conducted in danger zones. Authorities are investigating the cause of the blast. 19 people jailed in France for facilitating a network of migrant smugglers 19 people in France received jail terms for facilitating (促進) a network of migrant smugglers operating along the northern French coasts. Prosecutors at the trial in the northern city of Lille (LEEL) said those convicted worked as lookouts, masterminds, and drivers for smuggling gangs. Ross Cullen reports. Mauritania Lawmakers Sentenced for Insulting President Two female opposition lawmakers in Mauritania have been sentenced to four years in prison for insulting the president and inciting (煽動) violence. Their lawyers say Monday that the charges stem from social media posts accusing the president of discrimination against Black people and descendants (後人) of slaves. Last month, Marieme Cheikh Dieng and Ghamou Achour were charged with “attacking the symbols of the state.” Mauritania outlawed slavery in 1981 but human rights groups report around 149-thousand people remain in modern slavery in the country. 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 301-points this morning from last Thursday's close, at 39,228 on turnover of 15.3-billion N-T. The market fell on Thursday with a dramatic 922-point intraday swing amid analyst warnings about overheating in the market, which surpassed the historic 40,000 threshold just three prior to that. Taiwan deepens medical cooperation with Eswatini, eyes AI integration Health Minister Shih Chung-liang says Taiwan is expanding its long-standing medical cooperation with Eswatini, with future efforts to focus on digital health and artificial intelligence applications. Shih made the remarks on the sidelines of a health forum in Taipei as President Lai Ching-te is continuing a state visit to Southern Afican kingdom. According to Shih, Taiwan's medical mission in Eswatini has operated for years, initially focusing on clinical services (臨床服務 ) and personnel training with support from Taipei Medical University. The health minister says the next phase will center on adopting Fast Healthcare Interoperability Resources, an international standard for medical records that could help Eswatini develop AI-assisted healthcare systems. 83-year-old arrested after Tainan arson and axe attack Police in Tainan have arrested an 83-year-old man after he set fire to a relative's home, attacked three people with an axe and stole an ambulance. The city's Fire Bureau says firefighters were attacked by the man when the entered the townhouse on Xinle Road in the city's South District after arriving at the scene and finding smoke pouring out of the building. Two emergency service personnel and one female resident of the building were injured in the attack and taken to the National Cheng Kung University Hospital for treatment (治療). The man ran out of the building and jumped into an empty ambulance before fleeing the scene. Police followed the stolen ambulance to the Yongkang District before arresting the suspect. Suspected Hantavirus Outbreak on Cruise Ship Kills 3 The World Health Organization says that a suspected hantavirus (漢他病毒) outbreak on a cruise ship in the Atlantic Ocean has killed three people and sickened at least three others. In a statement to The Associated Press on Sunday, the WHO said an investigation was ongoing but that at least one case of hantavirus had been confirmed. One of the patients was in intensive care in a South African hospital, the U.N.’s health agency said. The company that runs the cruise said it was trying to evacuate two crew members who were sick and still onboard. The outbreak happened on the Dutch-flagged MV Hondius cruise ship. US on WH Correspondents Dinner Attack Authorities have more details about last weekend's White House Correspondents' dinner attack. AP correspondent Julie Walker reports on what Shakira Free Concert in Rio Shakira has performed a free concert on Copacabana Beach in Rio de Janeiro. The Brazilian city's mayor said 2 million people attended the event on Saturday night. It was part of her “Women No Longer Cry” world tour. The performance is part of Rio’s effort to boost the economy after major festivities such as the famous Carnival and New Year’s Eve festivities and before the monthlong Saint John’s Day celebrations in June. The mayor said the show could generate (產生) significant financial returns. 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 267-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 39,571 on turnover of 16.8-billion N-T. The market bucked rises registered in other neighboring markets and lost ground on Wednesday, as investors reacted to a slump in A-I related stocks on Wall Street. Premier guarantees minimum wage to exceed NT$30,000 next year Premier Cho Jung-tai is guaranteeing that the monthly minimum wage will exceed 30,000 N-T next year. Cho made the pledge (保證) during an award ceremony honoring model workers. According to Cho, he's guaranteeing the monthly minimum wage will exceed 30,000 N-T in 2027 based on the rapid development of the island's economy and markets across the country showing strong momentum. The current monthly minimum wage is 29,500 N-T, while the current hourly minimum wage to 196 N-T. Baristas to compete as 'Chinese Taipei' The Taiwan Coffee Association says competitors will be competing under the name "Chinese Taipei" in events organized by the World Coffee Championships. Competitors in the event have participated under the name "Taiwan" since 2007. According to the association, the change is an unavoidable (不可避免的) condition to safeguard participation rights and the new rules must be followed to ensure continuing participation in international events. Baristas from Taiwan regularly takes part in six major World Coffee Championship events. Two Jewish men stabbed in London Two Jewish men have been stabbed in North London in what police are describing as a terrorist incident. Counterterrorism police are investigating possible links to recent arson attacks on synagogues (猶太教堂). Lara Bentley reports from London SAfrica Protests Against Illegal Immigration Hundreds of South Africans have protested in Johannesburg against illegal migration. Demonstrations have been held across the country, including Pretoria, with anti-migration groups demanding stricter immigration enforcement (執行，執法). South Africa is a major economic hub that attracts many migrants seeking opportunities. Estimates of undocumented immigrants range from 3 to 5 million. Protesters claim illegal immigration causes urban overcrowding, labor tensions, and security threats. The protests led to shop closures amid fears of looting. The U.N. secretary-general has expressed concern over xenophobic (仇外的) attacks. South Africa plans to rebuild its busiest land ports to enhance security and reduce illegal migration. Thailand Thaksin to be Released Next Month Former Thai Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra is set to be released from a Bangkok prison next month after a Justice Ministry panel decision to grant him parole (假釋). The Corrections Department announced on Wednesday that the 76-year-old Thaksin will be released from Klong Prem Central Prison on May 11. He has completed two-thirds of his one-year sentence, the minimum required by law. Thaksin was sentenced in 2023 for abuse of power. His release marks the end of a legal saga that began when he returned to Thailand after more than a decade of self-imposed 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 345-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 39,176 on turnover of 19.3-billion N-T. The market lost ground on Tuesday after selling set in just off the 40,000-point mark as investors remained cautious ahead of key U-S tech earnings this week. KMT-TPP alliance backs Lee Shu-chuan for New Taipei mayoral race Former Taipei Deputy Mayor Lee Shu-chuan of the K-M-T has been selected as the joint nominee for New Taipei mayor after beating Taiwan People's Party Chairman Huang Kuo-chang in a poll conducted by the two parties. The results found Lee leading D-P-P candidate Su Chiao-hui in both surveys Lee says the results marked "the beginning of responsibility" and he's pledging (保證) to honor agreements between the K-M-T and the T-P-P - including incorporating policy proposals put forward by Huang. While Huang is pledging his full support for Lee's campaign, saying the process reflected democratic values through dialogue and fair competition. High speed rail to install platform doors at all stations The High Speed Rail Corporation has announced plans to install platform screen doors at all of its stations. According to the company, construction is underway at its Hsinchu and Banqiao stations - where the new screen doors are expected to be operational (運作中的) in the fourth quarter of this year. Screen doors will be next installed at Taichung, Taoyuan, Miaoli, Changhua, Yunlin, Chiayi and Tainan stations. Full installation of platform screen doors across the network is scheduled for completion in the first quarter of 2028 The project is costing the corporation about 2-billion N-T. Ukraine Accuses Israel of Allowing Russia Imports of Stolen Grain Ukraine is accusing Israel of allowing the import of grain it claims Russia stole from occupied areas. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy says a vessel carrying grain arrived at an Israeli port, calling the trade illegal and warning of sanctions. Israel denies the vessel entered the port, although tracking shows it in Haifa for days. Israel's foreign minister dismissed (不理會，不考慮) the comments as "Twitter diplomacy” and says Ukraine hasn't provided enough information. kraine's Foreign Ministry says more vessels have arrived with grain it describes as stolen. Kyiv urges Israel to stop these imports, warning it could harm relations between both countries. Taylor Swift concert terror plotter stands trial A man accused of plotting a terror attack at a Taylor Swift concert in Austria is set to stand trial from today. The 21-year-old is alleged to have planned to target a venue in Vienna in August 2024. He faces up to 20 years in prison if convicted (被定罪的). Europe correspondent William Denselow reports Australia Proposes News Tax on Digital Giants Australia is proposing to tax digital giants Meta, Google and TikTok a proportion of their revenue (收入) to pay for news reporters. The government released draft legislation Tuesday that it intends to introduce to Parliament by July. It would create a financial incentive (財務誘因) for the social media companies to strike deals with news organizations to pay for journalism. The platforms’ have said the proposal was a “digital services tax” that misunderstood the evolving advertising industry and would fail to deliver a sustainable news sector. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese says a monetary value needs to be attached to journalists’ work. 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 84-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 39,531 on turnover of 24-billion N-T. The market closed nearly 2-per cent higher on Monday, despite pulling back after topping the 40,000-point mark for the first time in history. New CEC chair outlines agency's key priorities The newly appointed chair of the Central Election Commission has been sworn-in. Speaking at a handover ceremony, Michael You thanked President Lai Ching-te and Premier Cho Jung-tai for their support and he pledged to lead the commission as a neutral, fair, objective (客觀的) and professional body. You also outlined the agency's key priorities - those being upcoming elections, referendum procedures, absentee voting (缺席投票) and the political rights of naturalized Chinese spouses. You was a member of the D-P-P before leaving the party in 2019 and previously served as the chairman of the Taiwan Public Opinion Foundation. Man filmed holding sea turtle on Taiwan island may face fine The Pingtung District Prosecutors' Office says a man filmed holding a sea turtle while visiting Xiaoliuqiu is facing a fine of up to 300,000 N-T. The statement comes after the man was reported by a member of the public on Sunday afternoon after he was seen touching a sea turtle near Vase Rock. According to the Coast Guard Administration, the person who reported the incident also provided video footage of the encounter and officers later identified the man based on his clothing in the video. He was found by Coast Guard personnel near the shoreline (海岸線) and taken in for questioning. Coast Guard officials say the man, in his 50s, is a Chinese national who is visiting relatives in Taiwan. British King & Queen arrive in DC Britain's King Charles III and Queen Camilia have arrived in the US for a 4-day visit, which will include a state dinner at the White House and an address to Congress. The royal visit is seen as an opportunity to smooth over (緩和) tense relations and bolster ties between the UK and US. Toni Waterman has more from Washington. Canada PM Announces Gov Investment Fund Canada's prime minister says the country is developing a government-owned investment fund. The fund will invest in major Canadian industrial projects in areas like energy, infrastructure, mining, agriculture and technology. It will start at $18 billion. Prime Minister Mark Carney said Monday that the federal government will provide funds alongside private investors. The money will help fund projects that Carney's government is focused on building as Canada seeks to diversify away from the United States. Sovereign wealth funds invest in assets such as stocks, bonds and real estate. They are typically funded by a country’s budgetary surplus (預算盈餘), which Canada currently doesn't have. The announcement came a day before Carney's government is due to announce its spring economic update. 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 926-points this morning from Friday's close, at 39,858 on turnover of 26.4-billion N-T. The market surged more than 3-per cent Friday as Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing closed at a new high after the Financial Supervisory Commission raised the investment ceiling for the stock by active exchange-traded funds. Yilan village chief recalled over mining project in Indigenous territory A village chief in Yilan has been recalled following controversy over his handling of a mining project in an Indigenous traditional territory. The recall vote against Lunpi Village chief Wu Ping-tsung in Datong Township passed with 214 in favor of the recall, 120 against, and four invalid ballots. Accordibg to the Yilan County Election Commission, votes in favor accounted for 35.31-per cent of the village's 606 eligible voters, exceeding both the legal threshold and the number of opposing votes. Initiators of the recall argued that Wu ignored local opposition to the mining project and instead supported the developer under the guise of (假借…的名義，以…為藉口) administrative neutrality. They also says the recall was aimed at protecting future generations from potential environmental harm. Wu said in a Facebook post in March that the project proceeded in accordance with the Indigenous Peoples Basic Law and he denied claims he supported the company that won the bid. Rain expected later next week The Central Weather Administration says temperatures will rise further today, with clear skies are forecast a across much of the island both today and tomorrow. However, new frontal system combined with a cloud system moving eastward from southern China, is expected to pass Taiwan on Wednesday and Thursday. That front is expected to bring cloudy skies and brief showers or thunderstorms to the west on Wednesday, while eastern parts of the island will scattered showers. Showers are likely to continue across much of the island on Thursday. The rain is forecast to ease off on Friday as northeasterly winds weaken and we'll see mostly cloudy to sunny skies islandwide. Russia Ukraine Strikes Leave Over Dozen Dead Strikes across Ukraine, Russian-occupied territory and Russia have killed at least 16 people. The attacks on Sunday coincided with the 40th anniversary of the Chernobyl disaster, prompting warnings about risks near the plant. Ukrainian forces struck an oil refinery in Russia, sparking fires. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy warned that Russian attacks risk repeating history. Rafael Grossi of the International Atomic Energy Agency stresses the need for immediate (即時) repairs to Chernobyl's protective shell. The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development estimates (估計) that the repairs will require at least $586 million US dollars. Death toll from bus bombing in southwest Colombia rises to 20 during a waveof violence The death toll has risen in the weekend bombing attack on a bus in Colombia. AP correspondent Donna Warder reports. Japan Earthquake Hits but No Damage Reported A magnitude 6.2 earthquake shook part of northern Japan early today, but no damage or casualties have been reported. No tsunami advisory was issued by the Japan Meteorological Agency. The U.S. Geological Survey said the epicenter was west of the small town of Sarabetsu on Japan’s northernmost main island of Hokkaido. The USGS said the magnitude was 6.1 and the quake was about 81 kilometers . A week ago, a 7.7 magnitude earthquake prompted Japan to issue an advisory (公告，警告) of a slightly higher risk of a possible megaquake for the nation’s northeastern coastal areas. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn