Westmead unit block fire forces overnight evacuation

Rubio reassures Gulf allies over Iran peace deal

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio attended the reopening of the U.S. Embassy in Kuwait as part of a tour of three Gulf countries. The diplomatic visit aims to reassure regional allies about America's recent peace deal with Iran, with Rubio emphasising that no toll will be imposed on passage through the Strait of Hormuz and that the U.S. will not undermine the security of its longstanding allies in the region. See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

Bill Gates reveals Russian affairs linked to Epstein plot

Bill Gates has disclosed the names of two Russian women, bridge player Mila Antonova and nuclear scientist Karima Nygmatenlina, who he says were involved in an alleged blackmail plot orchestrated by Jeffrey Epstein. In a closed-door Congressional Committee hearing, the Microsoft co-founder admitted to extramarital affairs with both women. Gates maintains Epstein never actually blackmailed him but believes the convicted sex offender contemplated using the affairs as leverage. See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

Two major earthquakes strike Venezuela's capital

Venezuela has been struck by two powerful earthquakes, measuring 7.2 and 7.5 in magnitude, occurring less than a minute apart. The initial quake hit at a depth of 13 kilometres, approximately 168 kilometres west of Caracas, causing buildings to collapse in the capital. The US Geological Survey warns of high casualties and widespread damage, with tsunami alerts issued for the Virgin Islands and Dominican Republic. See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

ASIO warns of unprecedented terror threat level

Australia's ASIO chief has revealed the agency has disrupted 31 major terror plots since 2014, with 14 occurring in just the last six months. The threats include state-sponsored attacks directed by foreign actors, such as an Australian citizen working for Iran's military who ordered a firebombing in Bondi, and an Australian in Iraq who directed an attack on a Melbourne synagogue. Young men are being rapidly radicalised online through encrypted forums and social media, with ASIO managing 30-40 active cases per week across extreme right-wing plots, Islamic extremist threats, and state-sponsored terrorism. See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.

Last ISIS bride granted return to Australia

The final remaining ISIS bride in a Syrian camp has been granted permission to return to Australia after her exclusion order was lifted. Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke confirmed that legal avenues were exhausted, requiring the government to approve her return. She will be subject to the strictest possible conditions, including mandatory reporting of her residence, work, study, travel plans, and 24-hour notice before using any telecommunications device or social media. See omnystudio.com/listener [https://omnystudio.com/listener] for privacy information.