Tourism activities surged across China as millions traveled during the combined National Day and Mid-Autumn Festival holidays. Popular destinations, cultural sites, and scenic spots witnessed record crowds, boosting local economies. The holiday season highlighted strong domestic travel demand and growing interest in cultural and recreational experiences nationwide.

After pressuring U.S. colleges to follow its ideological directives, the Trump administration is now offering financial incentives to encourage compliance, according to a government memo. The move marks a shift from coercion to inducement as officials seek greater influence over higher education institutions.

Israel faced global condemnation and protests after its military intercepted nearly 40 aid boats headed for Gaza. More than 450 foreign activists were detained, including Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg. Rights groups denounced the action as unlawful, while Israel defended it as a security measure under its blockade policy.

ROME: Thousands of Italians joined a nationwide strike to express solidarity with Gaza after Israel intercepted the Sumud flotilla. Demonstrators condemned the blockade and called for greater international action to protect civilians. Organizers said the strike highlights growing European opposition to Israel’s handling of the Gaza situation.

LOS ANGELES: A major fire broke out in a jet fuel production unit at Chevron’s El Segundo refinery near Los Angeles, sending huge flames and thick smoke into the sky. The facility is one of the largest refineries on the U.S. West Coast. Authorities have not yet reported casualties.

The dollar is on track for its steepest weekly loss since late July, pressured by mounting uncertainty over the U.S. government shutdown. Meanwhile, the yen eased from recent highs as traders await signals from the Bank of Japan and the outcome of the ruling party’s leadership election this weekend.

Organizers of the Global Solidarity Flotilla said Israel has intercepted the last remaining vessel attempting to reach Gaza. The flotilla, carrying aid and international activists, aimed to challenge Israel’s blockade. Activists condemned the interception as a violation of humanitarian principles, while Israeli authorities defended it on security grounds.

ISTANBUL: Turkish security forces arrested an alleged Mossad spy during a secret operation on Friday. Authorities said the individual was detained in Istanbul as part of efforts to counter foreign intelligence activities. The arrest highlights Turkey’s ongoing measures against espionage and covert operations within its territory.