The Early Days: June 2024

Let the romance rumors begin! TMZ obtained photos of both Mescal and Abrams enjoying a meal together at BRAT Restaurant in London. In one picture, the actor reached over during the meal and stroked Abrams' cheek. The images sparked immediate speculation, but neither party commented at the time. Abrams, then focused on her The Secret of Us tour preparations, kept quiet. Mescal, meanwhile, was deep into filming Gladiator II under director Ridley Scott.

August 2024: First Public Comments

In a profile for The Sunday Times, Abrams addressed the interest in her personal life. 'It's all spooky,' she said. 'You hope for just privacy in your life as anyone else would. That's just the truth.' Her words reflected a desire to keep the relationship out of the spotlight, even as fans continued to piece together clues. Two months after first being spotted, Mescal and Abrams were photographed together again in London – this time holding hands. According to the Daily Mail, the duo enjoyed a shopping trip before attending the All Points East Music Festival. While enjoying Mitski's set, the pair were joined by Mescal's Normal People costar Daisy Edgar-Jones and her boyfriend, Ben Seed.

October 2024: Support at Concerts

When kicking off The Secret of Us tour, Abrams received some support from Mescal in the audience on October 5. According to People, the actor showed up at Radio City Music Hall in New York City to witness his rumored girlfriend's set. And yes, he was spotted dancing and singing along to her performance. Less than one week later, Mescal expressed his hopes that he can keep his personal life a bit more private. In an interview with GQ, the actor said that he's 'learned that there's certain lines in the sand now for me that just are going to be impenetrable for the benefit of my own sanity.' 'The speculation has been kind of mad for the last x amount of years,' Mescal added. 'I'm not comfortable inviting any access into that part of my life. How I am in my private life is so precious to me because I get very little of it, and it might be public interest, but it's not public-obligated information.'

Swifties spotted Mescal attending Swift's Eras tour on October 20 to watch Abrams' opening set at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, Florida. He seemingly watched the show from one of the private VIP sections on the floor of the stadium. Because there were no tent covers on the VIP suites in Miami, fans had a better view of who was in attendance.

November 2024 – December 2024: Red Carpet Debuts and SNL

Abrams supported Mescal at the Los Angeles premiere of his movie Gladiator II, according to social media footage. They were also seen hugging at the official afterparty. Then, in December, they made their respective Saturday Night Live debuts one week apart. Mescal hosted the December 7 episode, while Abrams served as the musical guest one week later. After Abrams' December 14 performance, they were spotted holding hands in New York City. Days later, Abrams made a rare comment about her private life: 'Abrams keeps it brief when I ask how she's found navigating personal relationships under this new public microscope,' Nylon's Lauren McCarthy wrote in an interview published on December 17. 'That has nothing to do with me,' she said, straight-faced. 'It doesn't affect me.'

July 2025: Instagram Official

After Abrams' set at England's Glastonbury Festival, she shared a recap of her highlights via Instagram. '❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️,' she captioned a carousel. In one of the uploads, Abrams snapped a selfie with Mescal during a beach day. Mescal's sister, Nell, replied, commenting, 'At any moment we can just say we're so back.' This post effectively confirmed their relationship to the world. In September 2025, Mescal made a rare comment on his love life by explaining to Rolling Stone why the couple decided to go 'Instagram official' over the summer. 'I actually do have an answer [as to the timing], but everything to do with that is deeply precious to me and I don't want to. … This isn't … I don't really … umm … I want to protect those things fundamentally,' he told the outlet.

January 2026: Love Declarations and Hamnet

'Also I love him surprise,' Abrams wrote via her Instagram Story alongside a photo of boyfriend Mescal wearing a 'Will Power' T-shirt that had William Shakespeare's face on it. In the picture, Mescal smoked a cigarette and threw open his jean jacket so Abrams could properly see the witty pun on his shirt, which was a nod to his portrayal of the iconic playwright in 2025's Hamnet. Abrams also applauded Mescal and Hamnet his costars in a series of Instagram Story uploads on January 16, calling them all 'singular.' She added, 'Thank god for what they made. Go see it and you will be better off.'

February 2026: Birthday Celebrations and PDA

Abrams celebrated the birthdays of two very special people in her life via Instagram on February 2, including her longtime friend she calls 'Clemmy' and boyfriend Mescal, who turned 30. 'P❤️Clemmy❤️ My whole heart!!!!!!!!!' the singer captioned a series of Instagram pictures of moments with both the birthday girl and birthday boy. 'I love February 2 … Happy birthday❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️I love you both more than words could ever describe. Thank you for making everything better.' Among the photos, Abrams gave fans a glimpse at her PDA-filled romance with Mescal. In one snap, the couple attended a Boston Red Sox game together, while another image showed them kissing in a photo booth. Mescal was also spotted kissing his girlfriend at one of her gigs in a third photo, while Abrams shared a cute snap of the actor at a candlelight dinner in another.

February – March 2026: Red Carpet Couple

Mescal and Abrams made their official red carpet debut at the 2025 BAFTA Film Awards in London, where they cuddled up in sweet snapshots. Weeks later, they had another date night at the 2026 Oscars, where they twinned in all-black. These appearances marked a significant shift from the earlier secrecy, signaling that the couple was comfortable sharing their relationship with the world.

June 2026: Abrams Opens Up

During an interview on The New York Times' 'Popcast,' Abrams was asked how she felt about her relationship with Mescal becoming more public as the pair collaborated on their song 'Imaginary Friend' and made red carpet appearances together. 'I don't like the feeling of hiding,' she admitted. 'I also love privacy where it feels like the right thing.' Abrams also gushed that writing a song with her boyfriend was 'so fun,' but it wasn't anything new. 'That wasn't some groundbreaking event for us,' she continued. 'We have a very creative home with friends who are so good at what they do and everyone feels happy to share that with one another.' Abrams said the relationship is a source of stability and comfort for her. 'That is a part of my life that brings me so much peace and joy,' she noted of her romance with Mescal. 'I'm not going to pretend like that's not true, but I also think it's not like an open-door policy.'

Abrams’ career has also flourished alongside her personal life. Her album The Secret of Us earned critical acclaim, and her opening slot on the Eras tour introduced her to millions of new fans. Mescal, meanwhile, has become one of Hollywood’s most sought-after actors, with Gladiator II and Hamnet cementing his status as a leading man. The couple’s ability to maintain a private core while sharing moments with the public has endeared them to fans. As Abrams put it, the relationship is a source of peace – and she refuses to pretend otherwise. Whether they are dancing at concerts or walking red carpets, Gracie Abrams and Paul Mescal continue to write their own love story, one that balances the thrill of public recognition with the preciousness of private time.

Source: MSN News

This effort has faced strong resistance from the conservative bloc and some victims' groups, but the Democratic Party argues that without such a change, prosecution reform would be incomplete. According to floor spokesperson Rep. Lee Ju-hee, the revision is "the final touch to complete the prosecutorial reform" and embodies the party's determination to address the "hotbed of politically motivated prosecutors." The liberal bloc contends that granting prosecutors both investigative and indictment powers has allowed them to weaponize their authority politically, enabling them to influence elections, collude with administrations, and target opponents.

Lasting impact of Roh Moo-hyun's legacy

The Democratic Party's drive for prosecutorial reform traces back more than two decades to Roh Moo-hyun, a liberal icon whose influence remains strong 17 years after his death. Roh was the first South Korean president to push for a criminal justice overhaul aligned with democratic principles. In 2004, he unsuccessfully tried to establish an independent agency for investigating high-ranking officials' corruption to check the prosecution's power. Just a year after his term ended, Roh died by suicide in 2009 while under investigation for corruption allegations. His supporters and many liberal politicians believe that investigation was politically motivated.

Rep. Han Byung-do, interim chair and floor leader of the Democratic Party, expressed the lasting anguish: "We can never forget the profound anguish of being unable to do anything in the face of the ruthless investigations and public pressure that pushed Roh's life to the brink." He warned that "the history of political prosecution could repeat itself at any time" and vowed not to pass on such failures and tragedies to future generations. Roh's suicide became a rallying symbol for reform, embedding a deep distrust of prosecutorial power in the progressive movement.

Grudge against prosecution

Roh's ambitions were revived by former President Moon Jae-in, his closest ally and attorney in the corruption case, when he took office in 2017. During Moon's term, major changes reduced the prosecution's powers: much of its investigative authority was transferred to the police; the National Office of Investigation was established; and the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials was created to probe powerful figures independently. Many liberals believe this reform — strongly opposed by conservatives and prosecutors — motivated criminal investigations against leading liberal figures. In 2019, former Justice Minister Cho Kuk, who spearheaded Moon's reforms, was indicted for forging academic credentials for his children and sentenced to two years in prison in 2024. In 2025, former President Moon was charged with bribery after his former son-in-law received over 200 million won from an entrepreneur. President Lee Jae-myung himself faced multiple criminal charges under the previous Yoon Suk Yeol administration, ranging from false claims in his 2022 presidential campaign to collusion with developers — all suspended shortly after his inauguration.

Benjamin Engel, an assistant professor of Korean Studies at Dankook University, noted, "It would be fair to say that progressives believe the prosecution unfairly targeted Cho Kuk to halt prosecutorial reform during the Moon Jae-in administration, and some progressives believe the charges against Lee Jae-myung are also politically motivated." He added, "In this reading, prosecutorial reform is politically motivated by grudges against the prosecution. However, because a 'grudge' may be part of the motivation does not mean the reform is unnecessary or unjustified." Bernard Rowan, a professor of political science at Chicago State University, said, "I cannot say whether there are deep-seated grudges, but grudges tend to happen on any and all sides in politics, and memories of perceived injustice run long."

Deep polarization

The political landscape has never been more favorable for the liberal bloc to implement sweeping prosecutorial reforms. The Democratic Party holds an overwhelming majority in the National Assembly, the president has been supportive throughout his career, and Lee's inauguration followed the political turmoil of Yoon's martial law declaration in December 2024. The reform drive is championed by lawmakers like Reps. Park Jie-won and Song Young-gil, who have personal grievances from politically motivated prosecutions. Six of the 161 Democratic Party lawmakers are former attorneys who defended Lee in his criminal cases. Engel asked, "Would politicians charged with crimes personally benefit from prosecutorial reform? Likely. But if we are going to ask who benefits from the reform, we also need to ask who would benefit from the reform being halted."

Experts warn that elements of the reform could deepen polarization. Rowan noted that the recent tit-for-tat prosecutions of both liberal and conservative former presidents and their families "partakes of a concern for limiting executive power, politics and polarization." He added, "I think that Korean democracy is strong, but since there have been for some time allegations for nearly each and every administration, it tends to make the public more cynical over time." Engel described the Democratic Party's unilateral push and the public backlash as "a symptom of polarization," saying, "In that sense, pushing for prosecutorial reform will undoubtedly elevate or maintain polarization in the short-term, because a polarized society has polarized views of prosecutorial reform. However, in the long-term, prosecutorial reform, if successful in depoliticizing the prosecution, can help alleviate polarization."

The revision to the Criminal Procedure Act is expected to be forwarded to the plenary session soon, and the party has announced plans for a party-line vote. The outcome will determine whether South Korea's prosecution system undergoes a fundamental transformation — and whether the decades-long drive for reform can finally be realized without further deepening the country's political divide.

Source: The Korea Herald News

Pulisic's Injury and Absence from Milan

Pulisic's absence from the match against Celtic was officially attributed to a leg injury sustained during the World Cup. In the Round of 16, the USMNT faced Belgium, and Pulisic suffered a bone bruise and microfracture in his right tibia and fibula after colliding with Belgian midfielder Youri Tielemans. The injury forced him out of the game, and he has been recovering ever since. AC Milan's medical staff have set a target for his return to training at Milanello around July 29, alongside fellow World Cup returnees Santiago Giménez and Rafael Leão.

The injury itself has become a secondary talking point, as Pulisic's own comments about finally getting a break drew sharp criticism from former USWNT star Carli Lloyd, who publicly questioned his toughness. Landon Donovan also weighed in, expressing frustration with how Pulisic's status is handled by the program, insisting he would have played through the pain. This criticism follows earlier backlash when Pulisic skipped the CONCACAF Gold Cup to rest after two demanding seasons with Milan.

Dating Rumors with Megan Moroney

The dating rumors between Pulisic and Moroney have been fueled by their public interactions and social media activity. Both follow each other on Instagram, and Moroney recently addressed her love life in an interview with Cosmopolitan, hinting that touring keeps her focused but leaving the door open after her tour concludes in October. Pulisic split from professional golfer Alexa Melton in April, a breakup that played out publicly. The Nashville outing is the strongest indication yet of a romantic connection, as the pair were seen in a relaxed setting, trading smiles over music.

Milan's Performance Without Pulisic

AC Milan's match at Celtic Park ended in a 2-2 draw, with the Scottish side taking a 2-0 lead through Camilo Durán and James Forrest before 18-year-old Francesco Camarda scored a penalty and then equalized. The match marked the debut of new manager Ruben Amorim, who is implementing a 3-4-2-1 formation. Amorim has already outlined plans for Pulisic's role once healthy, stating he sees the American as an inverted winger on the left. Milan's next preseason test is against Inter Milan in Australia, again without Pulisic.

The draw against Celtic highlighted Milan's need for depth in the absence of key players. Other missing stars included Christopher Nkunku and Pervis Estupinan, who did not travel due to minor issues. The young forward Camarda impressed, but the team struggled to create chances without Pulisic's creativity. Amorim acknowledged the challenges, saying, "We are still building our identity, and injuries are part of the process."

Background on Christian Pulisic

Christian Pulisic emerged as a teenage sensation at Borussia Dortmund, where he became the youngest non-German to score in the Bundesliga. He transferred to Chelsea in 2019 for a reported €64 million, becoming the most expensive American player ever. At Chelsea, he won the Champions League, UEFA Super Cup, and Club World Cup, though his time was marred by injuries. In 2024, he moved to AC Milan, where he quickly became a fan favorite with his pace and technical skill. His leadership of the USMNT has been marked by high expectations, but the team's disappointing World Cup performances in 2022 and 2026 have drawn criticism. Pulisic's injury in the 2026 World Cup—the second time he was injured in a major tournament—has raised questions about his durability.

Off the field, Pulisic has become a celebrity figure, with endorsement deals and a growing Instagram following. His relationship with Moroney, a rising country star known for songs like Tennessee Orange, adds to his media profile. Moroney's music often draws on personal experiences, and fans are speculating whether Pulisic might inspire new material.

Reactions from US Soccer Legends

The backlash from Carli Lloyd and Landon Donovan reflects a broader frustration with the USMNT's recent failures. Lloyd, a two-time World Cup winner, did not mince words: "If he's hurt, he's hurt, but the way he talked about it showed a lack of grit." Donovan echoed this on his podcast, saying the program is "exhausted" with managing Pulisic's status. However, some have defended Pulisic, noting the severity of his injury and the need for rest to avoid long-term damage. The debate highlights the pressure on American soccer's biggest star as the team looks ahead to the 2030 World Cup.

Pulisic has not responded to the criticism, focusing on his recovery. His presence in Nashville suggests he is using his time off to relax, though the timing has raised eyebrows. Milan fans are eager to see him back in action, but Amorim's plans offer hope for a productive season. The club's next friendlies will test their depth before the Serie A season begins in August.

The combination of injury recovery, dating rumors, and public criticism makes this a pivotal moment for Pulisic. His return to the field will be closely watched, as will his relationship with Moroney. For now, the American star remains a tabloid fixture while his team competes without him.

Source: Yahoo Sports News

The accusation comes as Ukraine continues to face relentless Russian missile and drone attacks. On Sunday, Kyiv was targeted with ballistic missiles, according to Ukraine's Air Force. At the same time, Russia-installed officials in the occupied Zaporizhzhia region reported that a Ukrainian drone strike on a holiday camp killed 12 people, including five children. Ukraine denies targeting civilians, and the incident underscores the ongoing civilian toll of the war.

Diplomatic Moves and Civilian Casualties

Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev offered a potential path to peace, suggesting that a deal could be reached if the sides freeze the conflict and resume negotiations. Speaking alongside Putin at a forum in Omsk, Tokayev praised Putin's 'utmost diplomatic flexibility.' However, no concrete steps toward a ceasefire have emerged.

Elsewhere, a Russian aerial bomb attack on Sloviansk killed five people and injured nine, while drones struck a Nova Poshta facility in the Sumy region, killing three drivers. In the Sumy region, a separate drone strike killed two individuals. Both sides continue to deny deliberately targeting civilians, yet the frequency of such incidents raises questions about the conduct of operations.

International Reactions and Drone Incursions

Romania, a NATO member, shot down a suspected Shahed drone that entered its airspace for the first time on Friday, followed by a second drone interception on Saturday. President Nicușor Dan confirmed that F-16 pilots safely downed the drones in unpopulated areas near the Ukrainian border. This marks a worrying escalation for NATO as debris from Russian drones has previously been found in Romania, but this is the first time they have been engaged by fighter jets.

Iran summoned Ukraine's chargé d'affaires after a Ukrainian attack on an Iranian commercial vessel in the Caspian Sea killed one sailor and injured another. Tehran condemned the act as 'hostile and criminal,' while Kyiv has consistently countered Iranian drone supplies to Moscow. The incident highlights the broader regional implications of the war.

Ukrainian Drone Attacks on Russian Infrastructure

Ukraine has intensified its long-range drone campaign against Russian targets. A Ukrainian drone attack caused a fire at the Tyumen Oil Refinery in western Siberia, and warehouses of Russia's largest online retailer, Wildberries, have been repeatedly hit. Eight Wildberries facilities have been attacked since July 18, destroying millions of dollars worth of goods and disrupting logistics. Ukrainian officials say these strikes aim to make ordinary Russians feel the economic pain of the war.

In the Caspian Sea, Ukraine hit a Russian warship and vessels used for transporting Iranian-linked military cargo, according to Zelensky. The strikes are part of a strategy to degrade Russia's ability to conduct operations and to target supply lines. Ukraine's drone technology has evolved significantly, allowing it to reach deep into Russian territory, challenging Moscow's defenses.

Domestic Unrest in Ukraine and Russia's Economic Strain

Within Ukraine, protests continue over President Zelensky's decision to sack Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov. Thousands have rallied in Kyiv, demanding his reinstatement. Fedorov, a tech-savvy reformer credited with boosting Ukraine's drone capabilities, was offered other roles but refused. The protests represent rare wartime dissent against Zelensky's leadership.

In Russia, the central bank cut interest rates to 14% as the economy struggles with inflation fueled by war spending. The quarter-point cut was smaller than expected, reflecting a compromise between supporting growth and controlling inflation. Fuel shortages persist in some Russian regions after Ukrainian drone attacks on refineries, leading to price spikes and a ban on gasoline exports until year-end. Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak acknowledged the situation remains 'quite difficult' in parts of Siberia.

Political Maneuvering and Future Prospects

White House officials announced that President Donald Trump and Zelensky are expected to meet in Washington next week. Ukrainian and US officials have been discussing a possible air ceasefire as part of new peace proposals. Meanwhile, Trump ally Laura Loomer interviewed Zelensky and promised to ask Trump to ship signed MAGA hats to Ukraine's presidential palace via drone, in a bizarre twist of wartime diplomacy.

Italy's Defence Minister Guido Crosetto offered Fedorov a role as an adviser, praising his military innovations. Fedorov has not accepted, insisting he wants a position with actual authority to push reforms. The political mood in Ukraine remains tense, with many fearing that internal divisions could undermine the war effort.

On the battlefield, Ukrainian forces continue to fortify their border with Belarus, years after Russia launched its invasion from that direction. Anti-drone netting, razor wire, and concrete barriers now line the 1,084-kilometer border, a stark reminder of the persistent threat. As the war enters its fifth year, both sides face mounting losses and no clear path to resolution.

Russia has reportedly enlisted 221,000 people into its military in 2026 so far, while sustaining nearly 225,500 losses, according to Ukrainian intelligence. Zelensky noted that frontline medical care in Russia is 'catastrophically poor,' leading to high death tolls. The human cost of the conflict continues to mount, with no end in sight.

Source: MSN News

Who is Hiba Abouk?

Hiba Abouk was born on October 30, 1986, in Tunis, Tunisia, to a Spanish mother and a Tunisian father. She moved to Madrid, Spain, with her family at a young age and grew up in the multicultural environment of the Spanish capital. Her passion for acting led her to study at the Escuela de Actores de Madrid, and she soon began her career in Spanish television. She initially appeared in minor roles in series like El internado and La pecera de Eva, but her big break came with the role of Fátima in the hit TV series El Príncipe, which aired from 2014 to 2016. In the show, she played the love interest of a police officer involved in the conflict between the Spanish police and drug traffickers in Ceuta. Her performance was praised for its depth and authenticity, earning her a loyal fanbase. Abouk also starred in other series such as Con el tiempo and Déjate llevar, further establishing her as a rising star in the Spanish entertainment industry.

The Relationship Between Hiba Abouk and Achraf Hakimi

Achraf Hakimi and Hiba Abouk reportedly began dating in 2018, when Hakimi was playing for Borussia Dortmund in the German Bundesliga. The relationship was kept relatively private initially, but they soon became one of the most talked-about couples in the world of football and entertainment. In 2020, they welcomed their first son, Amin, and shortly after, they got married in a private ceremony. Hakimi and Abouk's marriage seemed idyllic from the outside, with the couple often posting glimpses of their family life on social media. In February 2023, they welcomed their second son. However, just a few months later, reports emerged that the marriage was in trouble. In April 2023, Spanish media reported that Hiba Abouk had made the decision to separate from Hakimi, citing allegations of infidelity on the part of the footballer. Abouk filed for divorce, seeking custody of their two children. The legal proceedings were handled amicably, with the couple agreeing to joint custody and co-parenting arrangements. Since the separation, both have remained focused on their respective careers and their children's well-being.

Achraf Hakimi's Rise to Football Stardom

To understand the full context of this relationship, one must appreciate Achraf Hakimi's remarkable journey in football. Born on November 4, 1998, in Madrid to Moroccan parents, Hakimi joined Real Madrid's youth academy at the age of eight. He progressed through the ranks and made his first-team debut in 2017. However, it was during his two-year loan spell at Borussia Dortmund that he truly emerged as a top-class right-back. His blistering pace, dribbling ability, and eye for goal made him one of the most exciting full-backs in Europe. After his time in Germany, he moved to Inter Milan, where he won the Serie A title in the 2020-21 season. His performances attracted the attention of Paris Saint-Germain, who signed him in 2021 for a fee in the region of €60 million. At PSG, Hakimi continued to excel, forming a formidable partnership with players like Kylian Mbappé and Lionel Messi. On the international stage, Hakimi chose to represent Morocco, the country of his parents, rather than Spain. He made his debut for the Atlas Lions in 2016 and quickly became a key player. During the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, Hakimi was instrumental in Morocco's historic run to the semi-finals, where they became the first African and Arab nation to reach that stage. His performances earned him widespread acclaim, and he was named the captain of the national team shortly after the tournament. Under his leadership, Morocco has high hopes for the 2026 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Life After the Divorce: Focus on Children and Careers

In the aftermath of their separation, both Achraf Hakimi and Hiba Abouk have maintained a respectful distance while prioritizing their children. Abouk has largely retreated from the public eye, focusing on her acting career and her role as a mother. She has been involved in new projects, including a lead role in a Spanish drama series set to premiere in 2024. Abouk has also been active on social media, often sharing pictures of her sons and advocating for privacy. Hakimi, meanwhile, has remained focused on football. He continues to be a pivotal figure for PSG and the Moroccan national team. In the 2023-24 season, he helped PSG secure another Ligue 1 title and contributed crucial goals and assists. His leadership on and off the pitch has earned him the respect of his teammates and coaches. Despite the end of their marriage, Hakimi and Abouk have shown that they can put their differences aside for the sake of their children. They are often seen spending time together with their sons, ensuring that the family remains united even after divorce.

Morocco's World Cup 2026 Campaign

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be the first to feature 48 teams and will be hosted across three nations: the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Morocco's qualification campaign began in November 2023, with the team drawn into a group featuring Zambia, Tanzania, and Niger. Under Hakimi's captaincy, Morocco started strong with convincing wins. The team's performance in the 2022 World Cup has raised expectations for 2026, with fans hoping for another deep run. Hakimi's leadership is crucial to the team's success. His experience playing at the highest level in Europe, combined with his ability to inspire his teammates, makes him an ideal captain. The Moroccan federation has invested heavily in the development of the national team, and the squad boasts several talented players, including Hakim Ziyech, Sofyan Amrabat, and Noussair Mazraoui. With the support of the passionate Moroccan fans around the world, the team is determined to make an even greater impact in 2026. For Hakimi, the tournament represents an opportunity to cement his legacy as one of the greatest Moroccan footballers of all time.

Hiba Abouk's Acting Legacy

While Hiba Abouk is known to many as the ex-wife of a famous footballer, she has carved out her own identity in the entertainment industry. Her acting credits include a mix of television and film projects. One of her most memorable roles was in the television series El Príncipe, which tackled issues of terrorism, love, and identity in a border city. Her portrayal of Fátima was both nuanced and compelling. She also appeared in the comedy series Déjate llevar and the drama Con el tiempo. Abouk has expressed interest in exploring more international projects, including those in the Arab world. Her dual heritage gives her a unique perspective that she brings to her roles. In interviews, she has emphasized the importance of representation for Arab and North African actors in Western media. Despite the challenges of her personal life, Abouk continues to pursue her passion for acting with determination. Her talent and resilience have earned her a loyal following, and she remains a prominent figure in Spanish television.

The Impact of Fame on Personal Relationships

The intense scrutiny that comes with being in the public eye can strain any relationship, and the marriage of Hakimi and Abouk was no exception. Constant media attention, rumors, and the demands of their respective careers took a toll. Hakimi's high-profile status as a footballer for PSG and the Moroccan national team meant that his every move was analyzed. Abouk, too, faced public interest in her personal life. The couple's separation was widely covered in the media, with many speculating about the reasons behind the split. Despite the challenges, both have handled the situation with dignity. They have maintained a cordial relationship for the sake of their children, avoiding public battles. This maturity has been praised by fans and commentators alike. Their story serves as a reminder that even in the glamorous world of sports and entertainment, relationships require work and privacy.

Looking Ahead: What's Next for Hakimi and Abouk?

For Achraf Hakimi, the immediate focus is on the rest of the 2023-24 season with PSG and the upcoming World Cup qualifiers. He has also expressed a desire to continue improving his game and leading Morocco to new heights. Off the pitch, he has been involved in charitable work, using his platform to support causes in Morocco and beyond. Hiba Abouk, on the other hand, is planning to expand her acting career. She has signed on for a new Spanish drama series that is expected to air in 2025, and there are rumors of her involvement in a film project in Tunisia. She continues to co-parent with Hakimi, ensuring that their sons grow up in a stable and loving environment. Both have moved on from their marriage, but they remain connected through their children and their shared history. As Hakimi leads Morocco's World Cup 2026 campaign, and Abouk pursues her artistic passions, they are both building new chapters in their lives.

Source: Hindustan Times News

HomeKit Secure Video is a feature introduced with iOS 13.2 that allows compatible third-party security cameras and doorbells to use Apple's iCloud service for secure streaming and storage of recorded video clips. This feature prioritizes privacy by encrypting video footage end-to-end and processing video analysis locally on a designated home hub rather than in the cloud. Users receive activity notifications directly through the Home app, which include thumbnails for a quick preview of detected events.

Requirements for HomeKit Secure Video

For HomeKit Secure Video to function, a user must have an iPad, HomePod, or Apple TV set up as a home hub within the home. This hub connects the cameras to the internet and performs local analysis to determine if a camera has detected a person, animal, vehicle, or other object. This local processing is key to maintaining end-to-end encryption and reducing bandwidth usage.

The feature is tied to an iCloud storage subscription. To record and store video clips, users need a paid 200GB iCloud plan, which supports one camera, or a 2TB plan, which supports up to five cameras. Importantly, recorded video footage does not count against the user's iCloud data limits, and up to ten days of clips are saved. Live video streaming does not require any iCloud plan.

How HomeKit Secure Video Works

When a camera detects motion, it sends a signal to the home hub. The hub then analyzes the footage locally—using machine learning models provided by Apple—to identify what triggered the event. The encrypted video is then securely uploaded to iCloud for storage. Users can view live feeds and recorded clips through the Home app on iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Watch. Notifications can be customized to show thumbnails and specify which types of objects (people, pets, vehicles, or packages) trigger alerts.

Compatible Cameras and Doorbells

Several third-party manufacturers have adopted HomeKit Secure Video, including Netatmo, Logitech, Anker's eufy brand, Eve, and Aqara. These companies offer a range of indoor, outdoor, and doorbell cameras with varying resolutions and features.

Eve Cam

Eve Systems released the Eve Cam, an indoor camera with a 1080p resolution, 150-degree field of view, infrared motion sensor, and night vision up to five meters. It underwent a 2025 update that added USB-C connectivity and improved night vision, though resolution remained at 1080p. Priced at $150, it integrates seamlessly with HomeKit Secure Video and offers a solid balance of privacy and performance.

Logitech Circle View

Logitech offers the Circle View Camera, a wired indoor/outdoor camera with 1080p HD video, a 180-degree diagonal field of view, and HDR. The Circle View Wired Doorbell is also available, featuring head-to-toe HD video, color night vision, and a 160-degree field. Both devices support HomeKit Secure Video and are sold through Apple and other retailers.

Anker eufyCam 2 Pro

Anker's eufy brand introduced the eufyCam 2 Pro, a wireless outdoor camera with 2K resolution and a 140-degree field of view. It includes a home base station for local storage and processing, and received firmware updates to add HomeKit Secure Video support. The two-camera kit is priced at $349.95 and offers battery-powered operation.

Aqara Family

Aqara has become a major player in the HomeKit Secure Video ecosystem with several products. The G2H Camera Hub (2020) is an indoor camera that also serves as a Zigbee hub. The Video Doorbell G4 (2023) is the first battery-powered HomeKit Secure Video doorbell, featuring 1080p video, facial recognition, and a 162-degree lens. In 2025, Aqara launched the G410 doorbell with 2K resolution, mmWave presence detection, and Matter compatibility. The Camera E1 offers 2K pan-and-tilt functionality for just $60, making it an affordable option. Aqara also showcased the Panel Hub S1 Plus at CES 2025, a touchscreen hub that integrates various smart home sensors.

Netatmo Smart Indoor Camera

Netatmo released a firmware update for its Smart Indoor Camera in February 2020 to enable HomeKit Secure Video. This camera offers 1080p recording and integrates with Netatmo's weather and security ecosystem. It was one of the earliest devices to support the feature.

Belkin Wemo Smart Video Doorbell

Belkin's Wemo brand debuted a $250 wired video doorbell in January 2022 with HomeKit Secure Video support. It features a 120-degree field of view and works with existing doorbell wiring. The doorbell became available through Apple's stores later that year.

Notable Updates and Events

In iOS 15, Apple expanded HomeKit Secure Video by adding package detection, allowing cameras to notify users when a delivery arrives. This was part of the broader iCloud+ service that also included privacy-focused features like Private Relay. Later software updates resolved glitches such as thumbnail refresh failures in the Home app, which affected some users in early 2022.

At CES 2023, Aqara announced the G4 doorbell and the U100 smart lock with Apple Home Key support. Eve introduced the Outdoor Cam, a floodlight camera with HomeKit Secure Video, in 2022. Other brands like Ecobee added support through firmware updates for their SmartCamera. By mid-2026, Aqara continued to expand its lineup with the G410 doorbell and G100 camera, both supporting Matter and 2K resolution.

Privacy and Security Considerations

HomeKit Secure Video is designed with privacy as a core principle. Video footage is encrypted on the camera and transmitted only through the home hub, which processes analysis locally. Apple states that it does not have access to the video content. The encrypted clips are stored in iCloud, where they are protected by the user's Apple ID credentials. This architecture contrasts with many cloud-based security cameras that send raw video to remote servers for analysis.

Popular Models Overview

For users seeking a balance between features and cost, the Aqara Camera E1 offers 2K resolution and pan/tilt capabilities at a low price point. The Eve Cam remains a strong choice for indoor privacy-conscious users. For outdoor and doorbell needs, the Logitech Circle View and Belkin Wemo provide reliable wired options. Wireless users can consider the eufyCam 2 Pro or Aqara G4 doorbell. High-end options like the Aqara G410 bring advanced detection and Matter compatibility.

Apple's ecosystem ensures that all these devices offer consistent setup, notification handling, and integration with scenes and automations in the Home app. As more manufacturers adopt Matter, interoperability with other smart home platforms will improve, although HomeKit Secure Video remains exclusive to Apple devices.

The growing selection of cameras and doorbells supporting HomeKit Secure Video provides users with a secure, privacy-focused way to monitor their homes. With ongoing updates and new product releases, the feature continues to evolve, offering greater resolution, intelligent alerts, and deeper integration with Apple's smart home infrastructure.

Source: Macrumors News

Key Facts

Lee, who earned three Olympic medals at both the Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024 Games, is among several gymnasts making comebacks for the 2028 Olympics. Her announcement follows Jade Carey, who declared her own return three months earlier and competed at the American Classic in late June, winning two gold medals. Additionally, college gymnast Katelyn Ohashi surprised the gymnastics world by announcing her return to elite competition after more than a decade away; she won a bronze medal on the balance beam at the same classic.

The potential roster for the 2028 U.S. women's gymnastics team is already generating buzz. Alongside Lee, Carey, and Ohashi, speculation surrounds the possible return of Simone Biles, the most decorated American Olympic gymnast in history. Biles has previously indicated a 50% chance she will compete in 2028, and Jordan Chiles, who competed with Biles in 2020 and 2024, has also left the door open for a comeback. Other contenders include 2024 alternate Hezly Rivera, Skye Blakely, and others.

Background: Suni Lee's Journey

Suni Lee, now 24, burst onto the international scene at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, where she won gold in the all-around, silver with the team, and bronze on the uneven bars. She followed that with another three medals in Paris 2024: gold in the team event, bronze in the all-around, and bronze on the uneven bars. Lee's journey has been marked by resilience, including overcoming health issues like kidney-related problems that affected her training. Her return for the 2028 Games signals a continued dedication to the sport and a desire to compete on home soil.

Jade Carey's Return

Jade Carey, 26, also competed in Tokyo and Paris, earning a gold medal in the floor exercise in 2020 after Biles withdrew due to the twisties. In Paris, she contributed to the team gold and won individual silver on vault. Carey's return to competition at the American Classic showcased her strong form, and she is expected to be a key contender for the 2028 team.

Katelyn Ohashi's Surprising Comeback

Katelyn Ohashi, now 29, is one of the most intriguing returnees. She gained fame as a college gymnast at UCLA, where her viral floor routines earned millions of views. Ohashi's elite career began early, and she famously defeated Simone Biles in the all-around at the 2013 American Cup. However, a series of back and shoulder injuries forced her to step away from elite competition. Her return to the American Classic—her first elite meet in over a decade—earned her a bronze on beam. Ohashi's quote, "I'm pretty much a senior citizen," captures the unusual nature of her comeback. Her experience and artistry could add depth to the U.S. team.

What We Don't Know: Simone Biles and Others

The biggest unknown remains Simone Biles, who, at 31 for the 2028 Games, would be the oldest American female gymnast to compete at an Olympics in decades. Biles has stated there's a 50% chance she'll compete in Los Angeles, but she has not made a formal announcement. Her decision will heavily influence the team's makeup. Jordan Chiles, a key member of the 2024 gold-winning team, has also suggested she might return, though no official confirmation exists. Other potential candidates include Skye Blakely, a seasoned elite gymnast who is targeting LA 2028, and Hezly Rivera, the 2024 alternate.

Historical Context: U.S. Women's Gymnastics Dominance

The U.S. women's gymnastics team has been a powerhouse for over a decade. The 2016 Rio Olympics 'Final Five'—Biles, Aly Raisman, Gabby Douglas, Laurie Hernandez, and Madison Kocian—won team gold and catapulted Biles to stardom. In Tokyo 2020, the team of Biles, Lee, Chiles, and Grace McCallum earned silver after Biles withdrew from several events due to the twisties; Carey won gold on floor as an individual. In Paris 2024, the team of Biles, Lee, Carey, and Chiles reclaimed gold. The 2028 team could feature a mix of veterans and newcomers, potentially rewriting the history books again.

The official roster for the 2028 U.S. women's gymnastics team will be determined at the U.S. Olympic Team Trials, scheduled for June 19, 2028, after two days of competition. Fans will eagerly watch the lead-up to the trials, as several gymnasts—including Suni Lee, Jade Carey, and Katelyn Ohashi—have already declared their intentions. The prospect of Simone Biles returning for a fourth Olympics adds an extra layer of anticipation. The 2028 Los Angeles Games promise to be a showcase of both resilience and excellence in American gymnastics.

Source: Yahoo Sports News

The remarks come amid intensifying competition among major economies—including the United States, China, and the European Union—to secure supplies of minerals essential for modern technologies, from smartphones and electric vehicles to fighter jets and renewable energy systems. Okonjo-Iweala emphasized that critical minerals are increasingly treated as strategic assets rather than mere commodities, driving interstate rivalry. She warned that developing economies risk being trapped at the lowest rung of the value chain, exporting raw materials while higher-value jobs, technologies, and profits flow elsewhere.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres echoed these concerns, noting that armed groups in eastern Congo are profiting from illegal mining and smuggling of minerals like cobalt, which accounts for over 70% of global production. The resulting conflict has devastated civilian populations. In Sudan, the exploitation of natural resources—particularly gold and gum arabic—has fueled a brutal war between government forces and paramilitaries, leading to atrocities and mass displacement. 'The minerals beneath Africa or any developing region's soil should never help to finance the conflicts above it,' Okonjo-Iweala said.

Historical Context of Resource Exploitation

The link between mineral wealth and conflict is not new. For decades, the 'resource curse' has plagued countries rich in oil, diamonds, and metals, where abundance has often correlated with corruption, authoritarianism, and civil war. In Africa, the exploitation of minerals like coltan and diamonds in countries such as Sierra Leone, Angola, and the DRC has funded rebel groups and fueled devastating conflicts. The current scramble for critical minerals risks repeating these patterns unless systemic changes are implemented.

Critical minerals are defined as those essential to economic and national security, with supply chains vulnerable to disruption. The International Energy Agency projects that demand for lithium could increase 40-fold by 2040 under net-zero emissions scenarios, while demand for rare earths used in magnets and electronics could grow by 5-7 times. This shift is driving a geopolitical race reminiscent of the 19th century 'scramble for Africa,' but with modern implications.

Opportunities for Transformation

Despite the risks, Okonjo-Iweala sees a path forward. She proposed three priorities for resource-rich developing countries:

• Demand local processing and refining: Instead of exporting raw ores, countries should insist on value-addition within their borders. For example, processing cobalt in the DRC or lithium in Zimbabwe could create jobs, build technical expertise, and capture more revenue.
• Strengthen the international rule of law: Transparent contracts, anti-corruption measures, and dispute resolution mechanisms are essential to ensure that mineral wealth benefits local populations rather than fueling conflict.
• Leverage collective bargaining power: Resource-rich nations should collaborate to negotiate better terms with multinational corporations and importing countries, reversing the historical pattern of exporting low-value raw materials and importing high-value finished goods.

These recommendations align with broader efforts to reform global supply chains. The WTO has been facilitating discussions on trade in critical minerals, aiming to reduce barriers and promote sustainable development. Okonjo-Iweala stressed that the world cannot achieve energy security, the green transition, or digital transformation without these minerals. Africa alone holds roughly 30% of global critical mineral reserves, and less than half of its deposits have been explored, indicating vast untapped potential.

Regional Specifics

The DRC accounts for over 70% of global cobalt production, a metal crucial for batteries in electric vehicles and electronics. However, much of the mining is artisanal and informal, with human rights abuses and child labor documented in some operations. Zambia and the DRC are also major copper producers, while South Africa holds the world's largest reserves of platinum and manganese—both vital for catalytic converters and steel production. Between 10 and 12 African countries have commercially exploitable lithium reserves, including Zimbabwe, Namibia, and Ghana. Additionally, 15 to 20 African nations have rare earth deposits needed for magnets, lasers, and precision-guided munitions.

Beyond Africa, other regions face similar challenges. Latin American countries like Chile and Bolivia, which hold vast lithium reserves in salt flats, are grappling with environmental concerns and indigenous rights. In Southeast Asia, the Philippines and Indonesia are major nickel producers, but extraction often leads to deforestation and water pollution. Okonjo-Iweala's warnings apply globally: without proper frameworks, the green transition could perpetuate exploitation.

Call for Global Cooperation

The UN Security Council session highlighted the need for international coordination. Several council members called for binding agreements to ensure ethical sourcing and conflict-free supply chains. The WTO, UN, and other bodies are working on guidelines for responsible mining, including the 'Due Diligence Guidance' from the OECD, which helps companies avoid financing conflict through mineral purchases. Okonjo-Iweala urged member states to support the development of local industries in resource-rich countries, such as battery manufacturing in Africa, which could create a more diversified global economy. 'The minerals are a gift, but they must be managed wisely,' she concluded.

Source: MSN News

« C'est typiquement une illustration du contrôle coercitif. Cette femme était sous l'emprise de son ex-mari. Son récit peut paraître étonnant pour les non avertis et pourtant… À l'unité médico-judiciaire de Compiègne (Oise), en 2025, un quart des violences conjugales que nous avons prises en charge concernait des viols. C'est inédit et ça ira en empirant, malheureusement. »

Une rencontre sur une application et des mensonges

En avril 2018, Jeanne se remet péniblement de la séparation d'avec le père de ses deux enfants. Elle rencontre alors Cyril (le prénom a été changé), via une application. « J'étais pourtant loin d'être naïve. Je dirigeais une équipe d'une trentaine d'hommes dans mon travail… » Au bout de six mois, elle se rend néanmoins compte de ses mensonges, découvre que son compagnon a six enfants et qu'il est toujours en couple. « Il avait toujours réponse à tout et tout était crédible, poursuit-elle. Il était charmant, attentionné et est rapidement venu vivre chez moi. Je me suis retrouvée à la tête d'une famille de 8 enfants (avec les deux siens, une fille et un fils). Je payais tout car il était interdit bancaire, mais je vivais une vraie lune de miel avec lui. C'était l'homme de mes rêves. »

Une lune de miel qui vire au cauchemar

Rapidement, le gentleman s'avère avoir un appétit sexuel hors norme. Il commence par lui envoyer des colis avec des jouets intimes et, même si elle n'adhère pas, elle veut lui faire plaisir. « La première année, il était doux. » Elle découvrira plus tard qu'il avait de nombreuses maîtresses. En 2019, Jeanne tombe malade. « Le soir, il me faisait m'asseoir sur le canapé, me coulait un bain et m'apportait un verre de vin, un café ou une tisane pour que je me détende après ma journée de travail. » Jeanne le trouve prévenant. « Je dormais 16 heures par nuit. Je me réveillais avec des bleus sur les cuisses, des saignements interminables qui duraient parfois plusieurs semaines, j'enchaînais les problèmes gynécologiques, les pertes d'équilibre, de mémoire. J'ai consulté de nombreux médecins, mais pour eux, c'était un burn-out. »

Pour le Dr Marc, pas du tout : elle aurait été victime de soumission chimique. « Si les professionnels consultés ne lui ont pas posé les bonnes questions, rien n'a pu être fait à temps pour le prouver, précise le spécialiste. Beaucoup d'abus sexuels sont commis avec des prises d'alcool ou des tranquillisants, souvent prescrits à la victime, mais administrés en surdose par le conjoint pour avoir un contrôle total. »

Violences physiques et sexuelles sous emprise

En 2022, le couple se marie et achète une maison près de Compiègne. Le cauchemar s'accentue. Le fils de Jeanne aurait même subi des violences physiques. « Il l'attrapait au cou et le soulevait. Ses enfants, à lui, obéissaient dès qu'il claquait des doigts. On vivait dans un climat de terreur. » La nuit, dans l'intimité de la chambre, la violence règne aussi. « Je me faisais réveiller en pleine nuit par une pénétration, Je voulais juste dormir… Puis, il a été de plus en plus distant, ne me parlait plus que de sexe. Je recevais 50 à 100 textos pornos par jour. Il voulait que j'excite d'autres hommes par message. J'ai fini par le faire, mais j'ai toujours refusé d'aller en rencontrer, même s'il avait programmé des rendez-vous sur des bords de route avec des inconnus. » Cette situation s'éternise pendant un an et demi. « À l'été 2023, les viols étaient de plus en plus violents et c'était partout, en voiture, en forêt, relate Jeanne. Je ne le reconnaissais plus, mais je l'aimais encore. J'espérais retrouver l'homme que j'ai connu la première année. »

Le divorce et l'escalade des violences

En septembre 2023, Jeanne finit par demander le divorce. En attendant qu'il soit prononcé, la cohabitation est douloureuse. Les violences s'accentuent. Un jour, Cyril aurait tenté d'étrangler sa propre fille de 11 ans. « J'ai cru qu'il allait la tuer avant que je n'aie le temps de l'arrêter. Il m'a cassé un os de la main, m'a étranglée aussi, donnée des coups de poing. » En parallèle, la fille de Jeanne, collégienne, va de plus en plus mal. « Elle s'est déscolarisée, a été hospitalisée et, comme moi, elle avait peur la nuit, détaille la mère de famille. Après la plainte et après des entretiens avec des enquêteurs spécialisés, j'ai appris qu'elle s'était réveillée plusieurs fois dans un état second sur notre lit conjugal. Elle a dit qu'il m'avait violée devant elle quand elle avait 12 ans. »

L'échec de la justice classique

Suite au dépôt de plainte, des lésions compatibles avec de viols ont bien été constatées sur l'adolescente, mais là encore, impossibles à dater… et donc impossible de prouver quoi que ce soit. Placé en garde à vue, Cyril n'a pas été poursuivi pour les violences sexuelles. « Le système judiciaire ne sait pas comment traiter cette histoire, analyse le Dr Marc. Je crois ce qu'elle raconte, mais je ne peux pas apporter toutes les preuves, elles sont venues trop tard, comme pour beaucoup de victimes car elles n'ont pas été bien orientées à l'époque. »

Plus de traces dans le sang, les cheveux ou les urines, lésions trop anciennes et difficiles à dater… « Les parquets sont obligés de classer sans suite et c'est la double peine pour les victimes, soupire le médecin légiste. En cour criminelle, le dossier ne tiendrait pas. Le viol conjugal a été pénalisé récemment parce qu'il est en hausse, malheureusement de nombreuses femmes trouvent encore ça normal et s'y soumettent. Quand elles réalisent, il est trop tard. »

Un combat pour que la parole de sa fille soit entendue

Maigre consolation pour Jeanne, son ancien mari sera jugé début septembre, au tribunal de Compiègne, pour les violences physiques qu'il aurait commises sur elle et son fils. Une toute petite partie de ce qu'elle dit avoir subi. « Moi, encore, je suis prête à tourner la page, conclut-elle. Mais ma fille a le droit à ce que sa parole soit entendue. Et là, on la condamne au silence. » Si son ex-mari doit être jugé en septembre pour des violences physiques, Jeanne se bat aujourd'hui pour que les deux plaintes pour violences sexuelles, classées sans suite, déposées en mai 2024 pour elle et février 2025 pour sa fille adolescente, soient entendues par la justice. Elle se rend tous les lundis devant le tribunal de Compiègne, avec d'autres femmes qui exigent une loi-cadre contre les violences faites aux femmes et aux enfants. Son avocate vient de déposer une nouvelle plainte avec constitution de partie civile auprès d'un juge d'instruction pour tenter de rouvrir le dossier. En attendant, Jeanne remue ciel et terre jusqu'à parler au grand jour de ce qu'elle a subi des années durant.

Le docteur Bernard Marc insiste sur l'importance de détecter ces violences invisibles. « Ici, on ne trouve pas d'œil au beurre noir, pas de traces visibles, soupire le médecin. La culture de la pornographie se banalisant, cela entraîne ces situations dramatiques. » Il rappelle que la soumission chimique est un phénomène sous-estimé. « Si les professionnels consultés ne lui ont pas posé les bonnes questions, rien n'a pu être fait à temps pour le prouver. Beaucoup d'abus sexuels sont commis avec des prises d'alcool ou des tranquillisants, souvent prescrits à la victime, mais administrés en surdose par le conjoint pour avoir un contrôle total. » Ce témoignage poignant, qui fait écho à l'affaire Gisèle Pelicot, met en lumière les difficultés des victimes de violences conjugales à obtenir justice face à des preuves souvent difficiles à établir.

Source: leparisien.fr News

The State Department's announcement cited credible information that Giammattei accepted bribes in exchange for performing his public functions during his tenure as president, actions that undermined the rule of law and government transparency. Spokesman Matthew Miller emphasized that the United States remains committed to strengthening transparency and governance in Guatemala and throughout the Western Hemisphere, using all available tools to promote accountability.

Giammattei, a 64-year-old former prison director and physician, served a single four-year term that ended on Sunday. His presidency was plagued by corruption allegations, including opaque purchases of Russian COVID-19 vaccines and accusations of taking bribes from Russian mining companies in exchange for political support. Despite numerous legal complaints filed against him, investigations stalled under Attorney General Consuelo Porras, who was herself sanctioned by the U.S. government for obstructing anti-corruption efforts.

The U.S. action came just days after the inauguration of new President Bernardo Arévalo, a progressive anti-corruption crusader who won a landslide victory in August 2023. Arévalo has vowed to root out corruption, but his path is fraught with challenges. Guatemala's attorney general, Porras, remains in office and has been accused of protecting corrupt actors, including Giammattei. Arévalo cannot remove her without a criminal conviction.

The Biden administration had increasingly criticized Giammattei's government as prosecutors sought to prevent Arévalo's inauguration. In the months leading up to January 14, 2024, Guatemalan prosecutors launched legal challenges against Arévalo and his Movimiento Semilla party, accusing them of fraud in the party's founding. Giammattei publicly maintained he could not intervene due to separation of powers, but critics accused him of turning a blind eye—or even facilitating—the attacks on the democratic transition.

Under Giammattei, much of the progress made by the United Nations-sponsored International Commission against Impunity in Guatemala (CICIG) was reversed. CICIG, which operated from 2007 to 2019, helped prosecute former presidents and high-level officials, but after its dissolution, anti-corruption prosecutors and judges fled the country or were imprisoned. Giammattei's government appointed loyalists to key judicial positions, further entrenching impunity.

Juan Francisco Sandoval, the former head of Guatemala's special prosecutor's office against corruption, who was forced into exile by Porras, called the U.S. sanction "foreseeable" given the evidence of corruption against Giammattei. Sandoval expressed hope that the ban would lead to U.S. criminal proceedings, as Porras' office protects corrupt actors. He noted that Porras had personally reviewed corruption complaints against Giammattei, effectively shielding him from investigation.

The U.S. government has imposed sanctions on hundreds of Guatemalan officials and private citizens accused of undermining democracy. Vice President Kamala Harris visited Guatemala in 2021, stating that unchecked corruption drives emigration. The State Department's action against Giammattei is part of a broader strategy to pressure Central American governments to combat graft and strengthen democratic institutions.

Corruption in Guatemala is deeply embedded, with a history of weak institutions and impunity. Giammattei's predecessor, Jimmy Morales, also faced corruption allegations, and the country's political elite often use the legal system to target opponents. Arévalo, a sociologist and former diplomat, campaigned on restarting the fight against corruption, but he inherits a system where the attorney general and many judges are beholden to the old guard.

The State Department's decision to bar Giammattei sends a strong signal to other leaders in the region. The United States has also sanctioned Porras and others involved in the judiciary's subversion. Assistant Secretary of State Brian A. Nichols warned last week that the U.S. would continue identifying those who undermine democracy.

Giammattei's term was also marked by economic stagnation, a rise in violent crime, and a crackdown on journalists and civil society. Critics say his government prioritized loyalty over competence, leading to widespread corruption. The Russian vaccine deal, in particular, raised eyebrows: Guatemala paid millions for Sputnik V doses at three times the market rate, and the purchase was made through an intermediary. Giammattei denied any wrongdoing, but no independent investigation was conducted.

As Arévalo begins his presidency, he faces a hostile attorney general, a hostile congress, and a judiciary packed with Giammattei loyalists. The U.S. bar on Giammattei may embolden reformers, but it also risks deepening polarization. Giammattei called the sanctions politically motivated, but he has little recourse.

The ex-president has expressed interest in returning to private life, but the U.S. ban effectively prevents him from traveling to the United States for business or leisure. His family reportedly owns property in Florida, and he had planned to visit family after leaving office. Now, those plans are in limbo.

The Biden administration has made anti-corruption a cornerstone of its foreign policy in Latin America. Through sanctions, public designations, and diplomatic pressure, the United States aims to erode the impunity that has allowed figures like Giammattei to operate. However, critics argue that sanctions alone are insufficient and that the U.S. must support local institutions and civil society to achieve lasting change.

In the meantime, Guatemala's new government must navigate a treacherous landscape. Arévalo has called for a national pact against corruption, but he lacks the political power to immediately overhaul the system. The U.S. has promised continued support, but the challenge remains immense. Giammattei's legacy of corruption and impunity will take years to undo.

Source: Yahoo News News

A decade of 'Badlands'

Badlands was a groundbreaking debut. It debuted at number two on the Billboard 200 and has since been certified multi-platinum. The album's singles 'New Americana' and 'Colors' became anthems for a generation, with their themes of youthful rebellion and self-discovery. Halsey, born Ashley Nicolette Frangipane, crafted a dystopian world in the album's lyrics and visuals, drawing from personal struggles with mental health and identity. The album's success established Halsey as one of the most prominent voices in pop music, leading to subsequent albums like Hopeless Fountain Kingdom (2017), Manic (2020), and If I Can't Have Love, I Want Power (2021), as well as the 2024 release The Great Impersonator.

The 'Back to Badlands' tour is not just a nostalgic trip; it's a full-scale production designed to honor the album's legacy. Fans can expect performances of all 16 tracks from the original album, including deep cuts like 'Castle' and 'Gasoline,' alongside fan favorites. Halsey has hinted at elaborate stage designs and special guests, though no supporting acts have been announced yet.

How to buy tickets

Ticket availability will follow a two-phase process. An artist presale is slated for Tuesday, September 2, 2025, giving dedicated fans early access to secure their spots. The general onsale will begin on Friday, September 5, 2025, at 10 A.M. local time. All tickets can be purchased through the official tour website, badlandstour.com. Prices are expected to range from $50 to $150 for standard seats, with VIP packages offering premium experiences such as early entry, exclusive merchandise, and soundcheck access.

Halsey has also announced that a portion of proceeds from the tour will benefit mental health charities, continuing her long-standing advocacy. Fans are advised to register for the presale through Halsey's official website to increase their chances of securing tickets, as demand is anticipated to be high given the album's enduring popularity.

Full tour dates

The 'Back to Badlands' tour kicks off with an intimate show at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery in Los Angeles on October 14, 2025. From there, Halsey will traverse the United States, performing at venues like the South Side Ballroom in Dallas, the Coca-Cola Roxy in Atlanta, the Fillmore Philadelphia, MGM Music Hall at Fenway in Boston, The Anthem in Washington DC, The Armory in Minneapolis, Byline Bank Aragon Ballroom in Chicago, and Fillmore Auditorium in Denver. After a winter break, the tour resumes in January 2026 with a show at History in Toronto, followed by Hammerstein Ballroom in New York, and The Fillmore Detroit.

International dates commence in late January 2026 with European shows: AFAS Live in Amsterdam, Velodrom in Berlin, Mitsubishi Electric Halle in Dusseldorf, and L'Olympia in Paris. The UK leg includes Aviva Studios in Manchester and the iconic 02 Academy Brixton in London. Finally, Halsey will head to Australia for performances at The Hordern Pavilion in Sydney, Riverstage in Brisbane, and Festival Hall in Melbourne.

Here is the complete list of announced dates:

• October 14 – Los Angeles, CA – Hollywood Forever
• October 22 – Mexico City, MX – Pabellón Oeste
• October 24 – Dallas, TX – South Side Ballroom
• October 26 – Atlanta, GA – Coca-Cola Roxy
• October 29 – Philadelphia, PA – The Fillmore Philadelphia
• November 2 – Boston, MA – MGM Music Hall at Fenway
• November 4 – Washington DC – The Anthem
• November 6 – Minneapolis, MN – The Armory
• November 8 – Chicago, IL – Byline Bank Aragon Ballroom
• November 12 – Denver, CO – Fillmore Auditorium
• January 9, 2026 – Toronto, ON – History
• January 13, 2026 – New York, NY – Hammerstein Ballroom
• January 17, 2026 – Detroit, MI – The Fillmore Detroit
• January 22, 2026 – Amsterdam, NL – AFAS LIVE
• January 23, 2026 – Berlin, DE – Velodrom
• January 24, 2026 – Dusseldorf, DE – Mitsubishi Electric Halle
• January 26, 2026 – Paris, FR – L’Olympia
• January 29, 2026 – Manchester, UK – Aviva Studios
• February 3, 2026 – London, UK – O2 Academy Brixton
• February 13, 2026 – Sydney, AU – The Hordern Pavilion
• February 17, 2026 – Brisbane, AU – Riverstage
• February 19, 2026 – Melbourne, AU – Festival Hall

What to expect from the tour

Halsey has always been known for theatrical live performances, and the 'Back to Badlands' tour promises to be no different. With a setlist that celebrates the raw energy of her debut, fans can anticipate a mix of high-energy anthems and emotional ballads. Halsey's vocal range and stage presence have evolved significantly over the past decade, and this tour will showcase both her growth as a performer and her deep connection to the material that launched her career.

In addition to the music, the tour will feature visual elements inspired by the album's aesthetic – a desolate, almost post-apocalyptic landscape contrasted with vivid colors. This aesthetic became a signature of Halsey's early work and has influenced a generation of pop artists. The 'Back to Badlands' tour is also expected to include interactive elements, allowing fans to engage with the album's world in new ways.

Halsey's impact and legacy

Since the release of Badlands, Halsey has become a trailblazer in pop music, known for fearlessly addressing topics such as bisexuality, bipolar disorder, and miscarriage. Her willingness to be vulnerable has resonated with millions, making her one of the most influential artists of her generation. The 'Back to Badlands' tour is not only a celebration of an album but also a recognition of the community that has grown around Halsey's music.

The album's lead single, 'New Americana,' was hailed as a generational anthem, with lyrics that challenged traditional American values and championed diversity. 'Colors' became a fan-favorite for its poignant exploration of love and heartbreak. These songs, along with others like 'Control' and 'Driving,' helped define the mid-2010s pop landscape and laid the groundwork for Halsey's subsequent projects.

Beyond her music, Halsey has been a vocal advocate for social justice, using her platform to speak out on issues ranging from abortion rights to mental health awareness. This tour, with its charitable component, continues that tradition, ensuring that the festivities also make a positive impact on the world.

Looking ahead

As Halsey prepares to revisit her debut, fans are also speculating about future projects. In a recent interview, the singer hinted at new music that could explore different genres, possibly even a rock or folk-influenced album. For now, though, the focus is firmly on Badlands and the opportunity to experience it live once more.

The 'Back to Badlands' tour is set to be one of the most anticipated events of 2025 and 2026. With tickets going on sale soon, fans are encouraged to act quickly to secure their spot at what promises to be an unforgettable celebration of a decade of Halsey. Whether you're a longtime listener or a new fan, this tour offers a chance to witness a pivotal moment in pop history, performed by an artist at the height of her powers.

Source: The FADER News

Here's the full breakdown of their relationship, expanded with context about their careers and personal lives.

2019 - First known meeting

While it's difficult to say when they first met, it's likely to be in 2019 during the filming of the 2021 movie Sweet Girl, where Adria and Jason play husband and wife. At the time, Adria was newly married to her long-term boyfriend Edgardo Canales, who she married in August that year. Jason was also married to Lisa Bonet, who he began dating in 2005, and had officially married in 2017. Jason, known for his roles in 'Game of Thrones' and 'Aquaman', was already a major star, while Adria was building her career with roles in 'Good Omens' and 'Morbius'. The film 'Sweet Girl' was a action thriller directed by Brian Andrew Mendoza, and the co-stars developed a professional rapport that would later blossom into romance.

2022 - 2023 - Both end relationships with their partners

It was early 2022 when Lisa and Jason announced their split, after being together for over 16 years and having two children. Lisa filed for divorce in January 2024, listing their date of separation as October 2020. Then, in 2023, Adria separated from her husband Edgardo Canales, a stylist. Both separations were amicable but drew significant media attention due to the fame of the individuals involved. Jason and Lisa had been considered a power couple in Hollywood, and their split surprised many fans. Adria's marriage ended quietly, but she later spoke about focusing on her career and personal growth.

May 11, 2024 - Jason teases a relationship

Just five months after his divorce was finalized (years after his separation!), Jason teased fans in an interview at Basingstoke Comic Con, stating that he was "very much in a relationship," adding: "You'll find out very soon." The comment sent fans into a frenzy, speculating about who the lucky person might be. Given that he and Adria had been seen together in casual settings, rumors began to swirl. Jason, known for his playful and open personality, clearly wanted to share his happiness with his fans.

May 20, 2024 - Jason makes it Instagram official

With no time to spare, Jason stayed true to his word and made the relationship Instagram official just nine days later. He shared a series of Instagram photos of his time in Japan, where Adria was the star of the show. He added in the caption that he was "sharing another amazing adventure with mi amor." The post was met with millions of likes and supportive comments from fans and fellow celebrities. Adria also posted similar photos, confirming the romance. This marked the first public acknowledgment of their relationship after years of private connection.

February 14, 2025 - Red carpet debut for the SNL50 Show

The couple remained relatively quiet for much of 2024, focusing on their careers and private life. Then, on Valentine's Day 2025, they made their first red carpet debut almost a year after they made their relationship public. They stepped out for the Homecoming Concert at Radio City Music Hall to celebrate SNL's 50th anniversary. The event was star-studded, but all eyes were on Jason and Adria as they posed for photos hand-in-hand. Adria wore a stunning gown, while Jason looked dapper in a suit. This appearance solidified them as a couple to watch.

March 11, 2025 - Red carpet for Black Bag premiere

The couple hasn't been shy with red carpet events, with February marking the beginning of a string of appearances. In March 2025, Jason and Adria attended the premiere of Black Bag; neither of them is featured in the film, so it's likely that it was a date night supporting friends. The premiere took place in Los Angeles, and the couple was photographed looking glamorous and happy. This further fueled media interest in their relationship, with many outlets covering their red carpet style and chemistry.

May 19, 2025 - Cannes Film Festival

An honorable mention for their appearance at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival, because we can't not discuss it when Adria looked that good (and of course, Jason too!). The couple attended the premiere of Splitsville, in which Adria starred alongside Dakota Johnson. The film premiered to positive reviews, and Adria walked the red carpet in a breathtaking custom gown. Jason accompanied her, looking proud and supportive. The couple also attended the amfAR gala, further showcasing their status as a beloved Hollywood duo.

Jason has expressed that it was difficult going through a separation publicly but it's now also his first time dating publicly, having been with Lisa prior to his Game of Thrones days and Hollywood breakout. So, you couldn't blame them if they wanted to keep their relationship out of the public eye; we can only be grateful for them giving us a stream of public appearances to fawn over.

Background on the Stars

Jason Momoa rose to fame as Khal Drogo in "Game of Thrones" and later as Aquaman in the DC Extended Universe. He is also known for his roles in "See," "Dune," and "Frontier." He has a passion for environmental causes and motorcycle culture. Adria Arjona is a Guatemalan-Puerto Rican actress who has starred in "Pacific Rim: Uprising," "Morbius," "Good Omens," and "Hit Man." She is known for her versatility and has become a rising star in Hollywood.

The couple's combined charisma and talent make them one of the most exciting pairs in the industry. Their relationship timeline shows a slow burn that eventually led to a very public romance, much to the delight of fans worldwide.

Source: MSN News

The political landscape in France has been rocked by yet another scandal, this time centered on Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo. The embattled left-wing mayor has been accused of spending public funds on luxury fashion and travel, prompting a fierce backlash. In a desperate bid to deflect criticism, Hidalgo has adopted a 'scorched earth' tactic by disclosing the expenses of all district mayors in Paris, a move that has been dubbed the 'war of the expenses'.

Background and Context

Anne Hidalgo, 66, has been the mayor of Paris since 2014, serving a tumultuous 12-year term. A member of the Socialist Party, she has overseen significant urban transformations, including the greening of the city, the promotion of cycling, and the successful hosting of the 2024 Olympic Games. However, her tenure has also been marked by controversy, particularly regarding her use of public funds. The latest scandal erupted after an anti-corruption group, Civic Transparency, obtained receipts under a freedom of information request, revealing that Hidalgo had charged €6,320 for two Dior dresses, a Burberry coat for €3,067, a Dior blouse for €1,120, and €858 on beauty treatments during the Paralympics in Tokyo. In total, the receipts for €84,200 in clothing and travel expenses were uncovered.

Details of the Scandal

Hidalgo defended her purchases, stating that the clothing was necessary for official engagements and that she had not exceeded her expenses ceiling. However, the optics were damaging, leading to posters across Paris bearing the slogan: 'Parisians: this is how Hidalgo spends your money!' Opposition politicians, such as Paul Hatte of the council's center-Right, called for her resignation, alleging theft and describing the spending as 'luxury' that the public has been financing for years.

Retaliation: Opening All Mayors' Expenses

As the scandal deepened, Hidalgo's close ally Éric Lejoindre, the Socialist mayor of the 18th arrondissement, faced embarrassment over expenses that included €6,500 on dry cleaning, two lunches at a luxury hotel totaling €1,248, and a €104 bottle of Bordeaux, along with pizzas for his children. In response, Hidalgo opened the expenses of all 20 arrondissement mayors to press scrutiny, a move she claimed was in the interests of transparency. This triggered a wave of revelations, including Philippe Goujon, the right-wing mayor of the 15th arrondissement, spending €150 per person per meal, and Jean-Pierre Lecoq, right-wing mayor of the 6th arrondissement, spending €745 on women's shoes during a holiday.

Political Fallout

The disclosures have caused outrage among both left-wing and right-wing mayors. One unnamed right-wing district mayor accused Hidalgo of adopting a 'after me, the deluge' attitude, calling her actions irresponsible. Even her allies expressed unease, with one asking: 'Does she want to drag us all down with her?' The scandal has reignited Hidalgo's rivalry with Rachida Dati, the combative right-wing culture minister and likely successor, who has attacked Hidalgo's record. However, Dati faces her own scrutiny for failing to declare €400,000 worth of jewelry and watches, which she received from an ex-boyfriend.

Broader Implications for French Politics

This scandal comes amid a series of political crises in France. Former President Nicolas Sarkozy was recently sentenced to five years in jail for conspiring to finance his 2007 presidential campaign using funds from Muammar Gaddafi. Additionally, a political crisis threatens to topple President Emmanuel Macron after bringing down his government, with his popularity sinking to a record low. The expenses scandal further diminishes public trust in politicians, a trend that has been exacerbated by the actions of Hidalgo and others.

Hidalgo's Defenders and Achievements

Supporters of Hidalgo have dismissed the controversy as sour grapes and misogyny, arguing that it will pale in comparison to her achievements. They highlight the successful Olympic Games, the promotion of cycling, the greening of Paris, the halving of pollution, and major urban projects. Her deputy, Lamia El Aaraje, accused the opposition of stooping to 'Trumpism,' while Communist senator Ian Brossat argued that Hidalgo's expenses are being discussed ad nauseam while Rachida Dati's affairs are ignored. They also pointed out that the transparency campaign was funded by a billionaire businessman with ties to the far-Right, suggesting a political motive.

Historical Context: Previous Scandals

This is not the first time Hidalgo has faced scrutiny over her use of public funds. An anti-corruption group filed a criminal complaint against her last year for misusing taxpayers' money, leading to a police raid on her offices. The inquiry is ongoing. In late 2023, she was accused of spending £52,000 on a work trip to Tahiti, which she extended for a two-week holiday. She faced further criticism for posting photos of herself cycling by the Seine while actually in French Polynesia, giving the impression she was in the capital.

Political Capital and Future

Hidalgo's political capital has nosedived. She received only 1.7% of the national vote in the 2022 presidential election, the Socialist Party's worst ever result. Barely 2% of Parisians voted for her. Her favored successor was defeated in a recent Socialist primary by Emmanuel Grégoire, a former deputy mayor whom she reportedly detests. As she heads into the final six months of her term, the expenses scandal threatens to further tarnish her legacy. However, her supporters remain optimistic, believing that her contributions to the city will be remembered positively in the long term.

Key Facts

• Anne Hidalgo spent €84,200 on clothing and travel expenses, including Dior dresses and a Burberry coat, charged to the public purse.
• She retaliated by releasing the expenses of all 20 arrondissement mayors, leading to revelations of lavish spending by both left-wing and right-wing officials.
• The scandal occurs against a backdrop of political crises in France, including Sarkozy's jail sentence and Macron's declining popularity.
• Hidalgo's supporters argue the controversy is politically motivated and downplay its significance compared to her achievements.

Source: Yahoo News News

Lee finished 1-for-4 with the triple, an RBI, and a run scored. While the box score shows a modest line, the triple was a key moment in the game, showcasing the kind of gap-to-gap power that made him a star in the Korea Baseball Organization (KBO) and a highly coveted international free agent. Lee's ability to drive the ball into the right-center gap and turn it into three bases is a reminder of the tools that earned him a six-year, $113 million contract with the Giants last winter.

Hot Streak at the Plate

Wednesday's performance extended a strong stretch for Lee. Over his last six games, he has recorded at least one hit in five of them, batting .304 (7-for-23) with four runs scored, one RBI, and a .360 on-base percentage. In 25 plate appearances during that span, he has shown the disciplined approach that has defined his career: swinging at strikes and making contact more than 90% of the time. Even in a small sample, that recent tear underscores why the Giants invested so heavily in him as a long-term building block.

On the season, Lee is slashing .302/.335/.427 across 376 plate appearances. He has scored 50 runs, driven in 34, stolen six bases, and hit five home runs. While the power numbers are modest by MLB standards—especially for a corner outfielder—his batting average ranks among the top 20 in the National League, and his contact skills are elite. He strikes out in just 10.5% of his plate appearances, a rate that places him in the 99th percentile among qualified hitters. That ability to put the ball in play makes him a valuable table-setter, even if the exit velocities are not always eye-popping.

Background and Journey to the Majors

Jung Hoo Lee was born on August 20, 1998, in Suwon, South Korea. His father, Lee Jong-beom, is a legendary figure in Korean baseball, known as the "Son of the Wind" for his speed and all-around game. Growing up in that environment, Jung Hoo developed a unique combination of patience, hand-eye coordination, and a smooth left-handed swing. He entered the KBO directly out of high school, selected by the Nexen (now Kiwoom) Heroes with the first overall pick in the 2017 draft.

Lee quickly made an impact in the KBO, winning the Rookie of the Year award in 2017 and the league MVP in 2022. Over seven KBO seasons, he hit .342 with a .407 on-base percentage and .491 slugging, totaling 65 home runs, 663 runs, and 515 RBIs. He was a five-time All-Star and won five Gold Gloves, establishing himself as one of the best hitters to ever play in the league. His 2022 season was particularly dominant: .349/.421/.575 with 23 home runs and 113 RBIs, earning him the MVP trophy.

After being posted by the Heroes in the winter of 2023, Lee attracted interest from multiple MLB teams. The Giants, under president of baseball operations Farhan Zaidi and manager Bob Melvin, were aggressive in their pursuit, seeing Lee as a high-OBP, contact-oriented fit for Oracle Park—a pitcher-friendly venue that rewards line-drive hitters who can use the gaps. Lee signed with San Francisco in December 2023, and expectations were high for his debut season.

Season Overview and Adjustments

Lee's 2026 campaign has not been without its challenges. In early May, he missed two weeks with a mild hamstring strain, and he has occasionally struggled against elite velocity—a common adjustment for hitters moving from the KBO to MLB. However, his overall numbers reflect a player who is more than holding his own. With a .302 average, he has been a consistent presence in the lineup, often batting second or sixth depending on matchups.

One area where Lee has exceeded expectations is his base running. While not a burner, he has swiped six bags in nine attempts, and his instincts on the bases are evident. The triple against Kansas City was his third of the season, and he has shown an ability to take extra bases when outfielders are careless. His defense in center field, where he has started the majority of games, has also been solid: he has 4 defensive runs saved above average, and his route efficiency is among the best on the team.

Comparison to Other Korean MLB Stars

Lee's performance through his first 90 games is reminiscent of other Korean hitters who have made the transition. Shin-Soo Choo, for example, posted a .260/.370/.400 line in his rookie season at age 24, though Choo had a higher walk rate. Ha-Seong Kim, who moved from the KBO to the Padres, hit .242 in his first year before developing into a Gold Glove infielder. Lee's .302 average is the highest among Korean-born rookies since the KBO began exporting players en masse, and his strikeout rate is substantially lower than both Choo's and Kim's early numbers.

If Lee continues at this pace, he could finish the season with a batting average around .295-.305, which would be a remarkable achievement for a player in his first MLB campaign. His on-base percentage is slightly lower than hoped, due to a walk rate of just 5.9%, but as he gains more experience with the strike zone against advanced pitching, that number should rise. Even as is, his .335 OBP is a valuable asset for a Giants lineup that has struggled with consistency.

Giants Team Context

The Giants entered Wednesday's game with a 52-48 record, sitting three games out of the final wild-card spot in the National League. The loss to the Royals, a team with a losing record, was a missed opportunity. San Francisco's offense has been streaky all season, relying heavily on the top of the order: Lee, LaMonte Wade Jr., and Mike Yastrzemski. Behind them, production from the infield has been inconsistent, with shortstop Brandon Crawford Jr. hitting just .241 and third baseman David Villar struggling with strikeouts.

In that context, Lee's consistent bat has been a stabilizing force. When he reaches base, the Giants are 26-16; when he does not, they are 26-32. That kind of correlation underscores his importance to the team's success. Manager Bob Melvin has noted that "Jung Hoo gives us a professional at-bat every time up. He doesn't chase, he uses the whole field, and he plays hard." Those attributes are exactly what a team chasing a playoff spot needs from a leadoff or No. 2 hitter.

Future Projections

With roughly two months remaining in the regular season, Lee is on pace for about 100 runs, 70 RBIs, and 12 stolen bases—all solid numbers for a rookie. The home run total may not reach double digits, but the gap power is real: he has 28 doubles and 3 triples, giving him an isolated slugging percentage of .125, which is slightly below league average but acceptable for a contact-first player. More importantly, his barrel rate (4.2%) and hard-hit rate (31.5%) suggest there is room for growth as he gets stronger and more familiar with MLB pitchers.

Lee's defensive value is also a variable. Most scouts project him as an average to slightly above-average center fielder, with enough range to stay there for another two or three seasons before potentially moving to a corner. In the meantime, his arm has been respectable, with 3 outfield assists. If he can maintain his offensive production and provide solid defense, he will be a core piece for a Giants team that has few locked-in long-term assets.

Off the field, Lee has been embraced by the San Francisco fanbase, which appreciates his blue-collar approach and quiet demeanor. He communicates through a translator in postgame interviews, but teammates say his baseball IQ is evident in the clubhouse. The Korean community in the Bay Area has also rallied around him, making his home games feel like a mini-festival on certain weekends.

As the Giants prepare for a crucial series against the division-rival Dodgers this weekend, Lee's bat will be essential. The team has dropped four of its last seven games and needs a spark. If Wednesday's triple is any indication, Lee is ready to provide it. For now, he will focus on the day-to-day routines that have made him successful: early batting practice, video study, and the same swing that has produced hits at every level of baseball.

Source: CBS Sports News

For network engineers, the keynote offered a clear blueprint of what the future holds and how their roles must evolve. Below are the five key themes that emerged from Rahim’s presentation and the implications for day-to-day work and career trajectory.

The network is now the AI foundation

Rahim opened with a powerful analogy: San Francisco’s Millennium Tower, a skyscraper that began to tilt because its foundation was not designed for long-term environmental pressures. He compared this to enterprise AI deployment, where massive data movement, constant inference, real-time responsiveness, and explosive scale will cause any network not built for this new era to fail. “The network is no longer infrastructure sitting quietly in the background,” he said. “It’s become the strategic platform for how organizations operate, innovate, and scale.” He warned that organizations can invest billions in GPUs, but if the network introduces latency, bottlenecks, and instability, performance will be severely limited.

What this means for network engineers: They must design for AI-era baselines rather than legacy traffic assumptions. This involves planning for sustained east-west flows, low jitter, and deterministic paths that support both AI training and inference, not just classic north-south traffic. Engineers need to translate network health into business outcomes for AI, such as linking latency and packet loss to model training time or inference SLAs. They should also get involved early in AI projects to ensure connectivity and data movement patterns are engineered from the start.

AI for networks: self-driving operations become table stakes

The core thesis of Rahim’s presentation was that legacy networks cannot withstand the rigors of AI. “The old model of networking—static, manual, and reactive—simply cannot keep up with the speed and complexity AI introduces,” he stated. His alternative is an AI-native, self-driving operations model spanning Aruba Central and Mist, powered by Marvis, Marvis Minis, and an agentic AI framework. On stage, he was joined by Sunalini Sankhavaram, vice president of product management at HPE, who elaborated on the shift. “Experience-first AI in action is built on real-life experience data—every user, every minute—validated against real customer support cases and enriched with digital twins.” In one demonstration, Marvis detected that over 6% of user minutes were bad, isolated the issue to a few overutilized access points, and autonomously fixed the problem by enabling dual-band 5 GHz, cutting peak utilization from 90% to 54%. Rahim summarized: “The network identified the issue, understood the root cause, determined the right action, and resolved the problem automatically before any user even had a chance to complain.”

For engineers, this represents a fundamental shift from being the resolver to configuring, supervising, and governing these AI systems. They must lean into AIOps rather than treating it as a dashboard, feeding full-fidelity telemetry into platforms like Mist and Aruba Central and actively testing recommendations. Their value increasingly lies in defining SLAs, allowed action scopes, and approval workflows for autonomous changes. They also need to learn the new language of operations—SLAs and “bad user minutes”—which will become the common currency between IT and the business.

One AI-native fabric across campus, branch, and routing

A major structural message in the keynote was unification: Juniper plus Aruba, Mist plus Central, wired plus wireless plus routing, all tied together by a common AI engine. Sankhavaram explained that with microservices, they can develop self-driving innovations once and deploy them on both HPE Aruba Central and HPE Mist platforms. Marvis is being integrated into the global north view in Aruba Central, including the Marvis Trust List—actions that can run fully autonomously, such as automatically recovering a dead camera port to restore video without human intervention. On the hardware front, HPE has already shipped a dual-platform access point and is bringing the HPE networking CX portfolio to Mist for day zero, day one, and day two operations. Rahim articulated the design principle: “Our mission is simple. Bring the best innovations to both platforms, so that every customer in every industry gets the same powerful self-driving network.”

Advice for engineers: Design for platform optionality, assuming that management planes may change over the life of hardware. Favor equipment that can switch between Mist and Central without rip-and-replace. Embed digital twins into workflows—experience twins and synthetic testing should be part of pre-deployment validation and change management. Build API-first automation muscle; Sankhavaram emphasized an API-first approach, making data and actions accessible programmatically, which deepens skills in Python, CI/CD, and infrastructure-as-code.

Networking and security converge with AI-aware controls

Rahim repeatedly stressed that networking and security can no longer operate separately. “Attackers are already using the network as their weapon of choice,” he said, “and with AI making threats faster, smarter, and more sophisticated, defenders need to use the network as part of their defense.” This aligns with research showing that 83% of network engineers now have security as part of their remit. Customer voices underscored the point: Royal Bank of Canada’s Marlon Drummond said, “Security for us is job number one. We don’t have any other job other than protecting our client data.” RBC troubleshoots at the network layer, the only place to get immutable evidence, using SD-WAN and deep packet inspection to create a persona for a user and treat deviations as anomalies.

On the product side, HPE announced a unified SASE orchestrator that combines Edge Connect SD-WAN with SSE stack into a single console. The session also showcased an AI-aware firewall that distinguishes between sanctioned, unsanctioned, and tolerated AI apps, enforcing fine-grained guardrails on uploads, prompts, and keywords. This lets customers see, govern, and protect how AI is used across their organizations without slowing down business. For network engineers, this means they will own more of the zero-trust and AI-governance story, implementing policies like “block ChatGPT, tolerate Gemini with upload and keyword controls” in their SASE and firewall fabric. They must instrument the network as a primary security sensor, building detection pipelines around network telemetry and lateral movement patterns. Self-driving changes must respect segmentation and zero-trust boundaries, requiring engineers to think like both a network engineer and a security architect.

Experience-first networking at real-world scale

The most compelling parts of the keynote were customer segments showcasing just how unforgiving modern environments have become. Ohio State CIO Rob Lowden described a campus that is a small city with 66,000 students, 8,500 faculty, 22,000 HPE access points, and a football stadium that can see over 200,000 people on game day. With that density, AI ops are needed to crunch data in real time, reducing problem resolution from hours to minutes. At Sentara Health, director Tom Johnson highlighted the criticality of network in healthcare: “We move massive amounts of data across the organization, and it directly impacts patient care. That’s why our network must be resilient, secure, and always available.” Ambient AI that listens to patient conversations and generates clinical notes is already in production, but it requires real-time, reliable, secure data delivery.

Disney’s Ben Croy, who runs global networking, described studio networks where a single animated feature could generate a petabyte of content, with over 200 concurrent productions globally. The requirement is speed and simplicity; the network must be foundational yet invisible so filmmakers focus on story. Network engineers should take these stories as lessons to measure what users feel, not just what devices report. Adopt SLAs around app quality as primary KPIs and design telemetry and AI-ops to optimize those. Use AI-driven digital twins and synthetic tests to avoid disasters before they happen, pre-testing big launches with synthetic users and paths. Finally, become a vertical expert—understanding domain-specific workflows in healthcare, finance, education, or media allows engineers to prioritize and tune the network for what matters to clinicians, traders, students, or artists.

Source: Network World News

The server is based on the Nvidia Vera Rubin NVL4 platform, which combines Nvidia's Vera CPU with the Rubin GPU into a unified architecture. This marks a significant generational leap in compute density and memory capacity, according to Dell. The XE8812 delivers 50% more memory per socket and GPU memory compared to the previous generation, enabling organizations to run their largest models and simulations entirely in-memory without the need for staging or swapping data. This eliminates the latency penalties associated with moving data between host memory and storage, which is particularly impactful for modern AI and high-performance computing (HPC) workloads.

Dell stated that the shift from the Nvidia GB200 NVL4 to the Vera Rubin NVL4 architecture brings expanded host memory, more cores (from 144 to 176), increased GPU memory, and greater computational power. When paired with Nvidia CUDA-X libraries, the system allows HPC organizations to run complex simulations and AI training tasks with unprecedented processing power. The XE8812 is at the heart of the Dell AI Factory with Nvidia, a preconfigured package that includes Dell PowerEdge AI servers, Nvidia GPUs (ranging from H100 to Blackwell and now Vera Rubin), high-speed Ethernet or InfiniBand networking, Dell PowerScale and PowerStore storage, and AI software such as Nvidia AI Enterprise and NIM inference microservices.

Architectural Details and Management

The PowerEdge XE8812 incorporates several Dell management tools to simplify deployment and monitoring. The Integrated Dell Remote Access Controller (iDRAC) allows IT teams to deploy, update, and monitor PowerEdge servers remotely. For rack-level visibility, the system includes the Dell Integrated Rack Controller and OpenManage Enterprise, which use real-time telemetry and automated leak detection to identify issues early. Given the liquid cooling required for the high-density GPUs, leak detection is a critical feature to prevent damage and downtime.

Dell emphasized that as AI and HPC simulation workloads converge, the scale and pace of these workloads are outgrowing what incremental infrastructure upgrades can handle. The global push for AI innovation is accelerating demand for high-performance infrastructure that keeps data, compute, and control where organizations need it. Citing a recent Gartner study, Dell noted that AI investment is projected to grow 44% year-over-year in 2026, and 87% of organizations say innovation and AI are key to their business strategy. Gartner also predicted that building AI foundations alone will drive a 49% increase in spending on AI-optimized servers for 2026, representing 17% of total AI spending, and that AI infrastructure will add $401 billion in spending in 2026 as technology providers build out AI foundations.

Nvidia's Vera Rubin Platform and Competitive Landscape

The Dell announcement is part of a broader Nvidia rollout of its Vera Rubin architecture, which was detailed in March 2026. Nvidia described the Vera Rubin platform as combining compute, networking, and data processing into rack-scale deployments for large AI data centers. The platform integrates the Vera CPU, Rubin GPU, NVLink 6 switch, ConnectX-9 SuperNIC, BlueField-4 DPU, and Spectrum-6 Ethernet switch, along with the newly added Groq 3 LPU, into a single system designed to operate as an AI supercomputer. The architecture supports all stages of AI workloads, from large-scale training and post-training to real-time inference, and is aimed at AI factory-type deployments or large-scale data center applications.

Super Micro also announced plans to roll out a Nvidia Vera Rubin-based AI server that will include up to 1,152 Nvidia Rubin GPUs and 576 Nvidia Vera CPUs in liquid-cooled racks. That server will be at the core of Super Micro's Data Center Building Block Solutions (DCBBS) Blueprint offering, which defines compute, networking, advanced liquid cooling, power distribution, and site definition recommendations for building AI infrastructure. Super Micro stated that the DCBBS Blueprint covers the full end-to-end sequence the company has used to complete large-scale liquid-cooled projects at record-breaking speeds, including on-site facility surveys that assess loading dock access, data hall measurements, floor load ratings, and existing power and cooling infrastructure.

The convergence of AI and HPC is driving demand for systems that can handle both training and inference at massive scale. Nvidia's Vera Rubin platform represents a significant step forward in this convergence, enabling scientific research and enterprise AI applications that were previously impossible due to memory or bandwidth constraints. Dell's PowerEdge XE8812 is positioned as a ready-to-deploy solution for organizations that need to build out AI infrastructure quickly, without sacrificing performance or reliability. The server's liquid cooling allows for higher density deployments, reducing the physical footprint required for large GPU clusters.

Dell's strategy with the AI Factory is to provide a complete, prevalidated stack that reduces integration risks and accelerates time to value for enterprise AI initiatives. By bundling servers, storage, networking, and software, Dell aims to simplify the procurement and deployment process for customers who may not have the in-house expertise to piece together components from multiple vendors. The PowerEdge XE8812 is the latest and most powerful addition to this portfolio, targeting organizations that are ready to invest heavily in AI infrastructure to gain a competitive edge.

The broader market context shows that AI infrastructure spending is surging, with organizations recognizing that AI is no longer an experimental technology but a core business driver. The ability to run large AI models entirely in-memory, as enabled by the XE8812, is a key differentiator because it eliminates the latency caused by data movement, allowing models to train faster and inference to happen in real time. This is especially important for applications such as autonomous driving, drug discovery, financial modeling, and generative AI, where even microsecond delays can be unacceptable.

Dell's XE8812 also supports the latest networking technologies, including high-speed Ethernet and InfiniBand, ensuring that data can flow efficiently between GPUs and storage. The integration with Nvidia's CUDA-X libraries gives developers access to optimized algorithms for AI, HPC, and data analytics, further accelerating time to insights. Dell's management tools, including OpenManage Enterprise, provide a single pane of glass for monitoring and managing the entire AI infrastructure, from servers to storage to networking.

As more organizations move toward AI factories—dedicated facilities designed to run AI workloads at scale—the need for standardized, modular infrastructure becomes critical. Dell's PowerEdge XE8812, with its support for up to 144 GPUs per rack, is designed to be a building block for such facilities. The liquid cooling not only allows for higher density but also reduces power consumption and noise, making it suitable for both data centers and edge deployments where environmental constraints may be tighter.

Nvidia's Vera Rubin platform is expected to be widely adopted across the AI industry, with multiple server vendors offering systems based on it. Dell's early commitment to the platform positions it as a leader in the enterprise AI server market, alongside competitors such as Super Micro, HPE, and Lenovo. The combination of Dell's global supply chain, service and support capabilities, and the proven PowerEdge reliability makes the XE8812 an attractive option for enterprises that require high availability and long-term support for their AI investments.

In summary, the Dell PowerEdge XE8812 represents a major milestone in the evolution of AI infrastructure, leveraging Nvidia's latest Vera Rubin architecture to deliver unprecedented memory capacity and compute density. As AI workloads continue to grow in size and complexity, systems like the XE8812 will be essential for organizations that need to train and deploy large models efficiently. The integration with Dell's AI Factory and management tools further simplifies adoption, making it easier for enterprises to harness the power of AI at scale.

Source: Network World News

The Bundesliga has long talked about turning “data into devotion,” and now it has an agentic AI companion in its official app that lets fans chat in natural language, access live stats and historical context, and view personalized video highlights—all without leaving the app.

Bundesliga is the premier professional soccer league in Germany. It built its new AI companion, called Captain, on AWS and embedded it in the official league app. For IT pros, this is more than just a clever sports-tech use case. It’s an early glimpse of what the customer experience will feel like when generative and agentic AI are not bolted on but, instead, become the primary way users navigate data, content, and services.

Understanding Captain

Captain serves as a conversational interface in the Bundesliga app, acting like a knowledgeable friend who watches every game with you. Fans can ask questions like, “How has Jamal Musiala been playing for Bayern this season compared to his national team?” and receive responses grounded in official league data, complete with stats, historical context, and relevant clips.

Key capabilities include:

• On-demand access to live statistics, historical match data, tactical analysis, trivia, and video highlights via chat.
• Proactive insights during key moments, such as goals, penalties, milestones, where AI agents surface streaks, records, or parallels to historic games.
• A “coach mode” that gamifies learning the sport, adapting explanations and daily lessons to each fan’s knowledge level.

Under the hood, Captain uses a multi-agent architecture built on Amazon Bedrock and Amazon Nova, dynamically routing each request to the appropriate model and workflow. Simple questions go to a lightweight model, while complex reasoning and data mashups are handled by more capable models, with text-to-SQL pipelines translating natural language into queries against the Bundesliga’s analytics stack. The result is a conversational front end built on a robust data platform.

The data foundation

What makes this notable is not only the UI but also the data infrastructure needed to deliver these capabilities. Historically, the Bundesliga tracked one point per player per second, generating roughly 3.6 million data points per match. With their move to 3D skeletal tracking—21 points per player at 50 frames per second—they now process roughly 200 million data points per match.

That data lands in a modern analytics and AI stack on AWS, including:

• Streaming ingestion via Amazon MSK and other services to handle real-time feeds.
• A data lake and lakehouse foundation using S3 Tables and Apache Iceberg for open, schema-evolving storage.
• Query and analytics via Amazon Athena and associated text-to-SQL workflows for on-the-fly question answering.
• Vector stores to cache question-to-SQL patterns and reduce cost on repeated queries.

On top of this, a set of agentic workflows continuously monitors live events, generates candidate “stories,” and pushes the best ones into Captain so fans see relevant narratives without having to know what to ask. This same foundation is already being used by the league to generate thousands of AI-powered narratives per season for broadcasters and editors, demonstrating how editorial and fan experiences can share a common AI backbone.

For IT leaders, a key lesson learned is that data strategy is as important as model selection in building compelling generative AI experiences.

What this signals about the future of customer experience

Captain illustrates several important shifts that will define AI-driven CX across industries.

• Apps shift to companions. Instead of forcing users to navigate menus and features, the Bundesliga consolidates multiple use cases – scores, stats, historical research, video discovery, and learning – into a single conversational surface. This mirrors what enterprises will do with “digital relationship managers” in banking, “patient companions” in healthcare, and “shopping concierges” in retail.
• From reactive support to proactive storytelling. Most chatbots answer questions; Captain also looks ahead. When a major event occurs, agents work autonomously to find interesting angles, such as a record broken, a rare streak, a historical déjà vu, and push them to fans in real time. Imagine similar patterns in other domains: an insurance AI flagging a better coverage option at renewal, or a B2B vendor surfacing adoption risks before a renewal conversation.
• Experiences become adaptive. Coach Mode exemplifies progressive disclosure: it teaches a new fan the rules while offering tactical deep dives for advanced fans, all within the same interface. That’s exactly the model enterprises will need—systems that can explain a process to a novice and to a domain expert in different ways, without duplicating apps or content.
• Static journeys are evolving into AI-driven micro-journeys. The Bundesliga is using agentic AI to stitch together micro-journeys in real time. A question triggers an answer; a research agent follows up with deeper content; a video agent suggests highlights—all personalized and sequenced. In enterprise CX, journeys will increasingly be orchestrated by AI that adapts steps, channels, and content to context, rather than by rigid workflows.

Implications for IT pros and CX leaders

For IT pros, CX improvement requires rethinking the architecture, governance, and operating models to support AI-native experiences. Here are some things to consider.

1. Start with a data-first mindset. Captain only works because the Bundesliga invested years in building a robust data foundation. That includes high-fidelity tracking, consistent schemas, and streaming infrastructure. Before promising AI companions to your business stakeholders, you need to:

• Inventory your customer data sources and identify gaps in coverage, latency, and quality.
• Rationalize schemas and metadata so AI agents can reason across systems (CRM, transactional systems, content libraries) without brittle transformations.
• Plan for real-time or near-real-time data where “moment of truth” interactions matter.

Without this groundwork, generative AI projects risk turning into expensive prototypes that can’t scale.

2. Think in terms of AI agents, not just models. Bundesliga’s architecture separates concerns into agents: a router agent to determine intent, stats agents to query the right backends, and research agents to autonomously investigate events and propose stories. IT teams should similarly design:

• Routing layers that determine whether a request is informational, transactional, or analytical.
• Specialized agents for data retrieval, verification, personalization, and safety.
• Clear SLAs and guardrails for agent interactions with core systems.

This moves you from one big LLM to an orchestrated system in which different components can evolve independently.

3. Leverage dynamic routing for cost and performance. Bundesliga explicitly uses dynamic model routing. This approach uses lighter models for simple questions and more powerful ones for complex reasoning, cutting chat costs by more than a third without sacrificing accuracy. Enterprise IT can borrow this pattern:

• Use smaller models or even retrieval plus templating for repeatable queries.
• Reserve premium models for complex, high-value interactions.
• Continuously collect analytics on query types to refine routing policies.

The result is an AI experience that scales economically rather than collapsing under inference costs.

4. Redefine UX around conversation and context. Captain’s UX is not just chat; it’s chat tightly coupled with video playback, stats visualization, and contextual recommendations. For IT and product teams, this means:

• Designing conversational experiences that can invoke micro-apps or widgets (e.g., forms, dashboards, media players) in context.
• Maintaining conversation state across channels, so a user can move from mobile to web or from chat to voice without losing context.
• Instrumenting these flows to understand where AI helps, confuses, or frustrates users.

Generative AI should be treated as a new interaction layer, not a standalone feature.

5. Treat safety and trust as first-class requirements. Captain is built on official league data and protected by content safety guardrails to prevent hallucinations or inappropriate content. In enterprise settings, this translates to:

• Strict grounding of AI outputs in trusted systems of record.
• Fine-grained access controls so agents see only what they should.
• Human-in-the-loop workflows for high-risk outputs (e.g., financial advice, medical suggestions, legal communications).

Trust will be the differentiator between AI experiences that delight and those that harm brand equity.

How IT pros should think about next steps

For most organizations, the Bundesliga’s Captain should be viewed as aspirational but certainly doable. Practically, IT pros can start by:

• Identifying one high-value, data-rich customer journey (e.g., onboarding, troubleshooting, order tracking) as a pilot.
• Standing up a modest but modern data foundation for that journey, including event streaming and a unified view of context.
• Prototyping an AI companion that combines retrieval-augmented generation with a couple of simple agents (for routing and follow-ups).
• Instrumenting everything—latency, cost, satisfaction, containment—to build the business case for expanding to more journeys.

The Bundesliga shows what happens when an organization treats AI not as a feature but as a new way to connect with fans. IT leaders who treat generative and agentic AI as central to their customer experience strategy will be the ones who turn their own data into genuine customer devotion.

Source: Network World News

Discovery and attribution

Diachenko posted on LinkedIn about finding a list of stolen FortiGate passwords. SOCRadar later independently discovered an operational server belonging to an unnamed threat actor. That server contained a list of stolen FortiGate passwords, tools, automation infrastructure, a victim list, and telling information about who could be behind the attack. "Attribution is ongoing, but the operational fingerprints are clear," SOCRadar researchers said in a blog post, adding that the tooling and targeting choices are consistent with Russian-speaking threat actors.

According to independent analyses, including by SOCRadar, Hudson Rock, and Beaumont, the threat actors systematically collected configuration files from internet-facing Fortinet FortiGate firewalls and used them to recover working administrator credentials. The initial access vector is presently unknown, but Benjamin Harris, CEO of watchTowr, noted that the campaign is consistent with what he has been seeing lately. "The uncomfortable reality is that modern exploitation isn't always about immediate impact," he said. "It's about harvesting data that retains value long after the underlying vulnerability has been patched." These credentials were likely accumulated over time by exploiting many vulnerabilities affecting sensitive, externally facing Fortinet applications, he added.

Scale and global reach

While SOCRadar initially reported that the dataset contained working login credentials for over 30,791 devices, further analysis by Beaumont and Hudson Rock placed the affected devices at 75,000. Researchers found affected devices across 194 countries, spanning more than 21,000 domains. The dataset reportedly contains a mix of administrative and SSL VPN credentials recovered from compromised configuration files. Researchers said the operation is highly automated, allowing threat actors to collect, process, and crack credential material at a very large scale. SOCRadar found the top affected countries to be India, the US, and Mexico, with a little under 12,000 compromised credentials between them. A credential-type breakdown revealed organization-specific credentials to be most probed, indicating enterprise targeting.

Explaining the potential impact, Beaumont said the threat actors "can log in remotely and gain remote access to the firewall — and so the network." They can also change settings, including security controls, and make backdoor users, he added. This level of access could allow attackers to pivot deeper into an organization's internal systems, reconfigure firewall rules to allow malicious traffic, or exfiltrate sensitive data over VPN tunnels.

Old hashes, new problems

Additional investigation into the campaign highlighted why some Fortinet deployments proved easier to crack than others. Researchers noted that many affected systems stored administrator credentials using older hashing approaches that were significantly less resistant to offline password-cracking attacks than more recent implementations. Fortinet introduced PBKDF2-based password hashing for administrator credentials in FortiOS versions 7.2.11, 7.4.8, and 7.6.1, replacing the legacy SHA-256-based storage mechanism. However, when upgrading from earlier versions, existing administrator passwords remain stored as SHA-256 hashes until the corresponding administrator successfully logs in following the upgrade. This has led to many organizations continuing to store admin credentials using the older SHA-256 with salt hashing mechanism, which can be cracked far more quickly using GPU-based tools like hashcat.

The difference in security is stark. PBKDF2 is a key derivation function that applies a configurable number of iterations (Fortinet uses thousands), making brute-force and dictionary attacks computationally expensive. SHA-256, while still a strong hash, is designed for speed, meaning an attacker with a modern graphics card can test billions of password candidates per second. If the salt (a random value added to each password before hashing) is also exposed — which it is in FortiGate configuration files — the attacker has everything needed to crack passwords offline at high speed.

This has been a known issue in the Fortinet ecosystem for years. Security researchers have previously warned that many organizations fail to upgrade their firewall firmware in a timely manner, or do not enforce administrator password changes post-upgrade. The FortiBleed campaign appears to have capitalized on this gap.

Defenders told to assume credential exposure

Researchers urged organizations to assume that credentials contained in exposed FortiGate configuration files have been compromised and to immediately rotate affected administrative and VPN passwords. Additional recommendations include enforcing multi-factor authentication (MFA), restricting internet access to management interfaces, and reviewing devices for signs of unauthorized access. Upgrading to supported FortiOS versions and replacing weaker or reused passwords was also advised. "After upgrading FortiOS, require all administrators to log in to the firewall at least once: this will automatically set the encryption to PBKDF2," researchers said. Admin passwords can also be manually updated by using a super_admin account, they noted.

The broader implication of the FortiBleed campaign is a wake-up call for network security teams worldwide. Firewalls are often treated as the first line of defense, yet many organizations neglect to secure their configuration files or enforce strong password hashing. The use of default or weak administrative passwords remains a persistent problem, and attackers have repeatedly demonstrated that they are willing to harvest credentials at massive scale for later use.

Given the tens of thousands of affected devices and the likelihood that many have already been backdoored, organizations should conduct forensic audits of their FortiGate logs, looking for unauthorized administrative logins, unexpected configuration changes, or VPN sessions from unknown IP addresses. The threat actors behind FortiBleed are likely to continue leveraging stolen credentials long after the initial breach is discovered, especially if organizations fail to rotate passwords and enable multi-factor authentication.

Fortinet did not immediately respond to CSO's request for comment at the time of publication. But independent experts have already published detailed guidance on how to detect compromise and recover from the attack. The incident underscores that credential compromise remains one of the most effective — and underappreciated — attack vectors in modern cybersecurity, especially when combined with automated mass harvesting and offline cracking.

Source: Network World News

“We have entered a networking supercycle, because the network is so central to all the AI infrastructure the world is building now,” said Jeetu Patel, Cisco president and chief product officer, in a statement. The survey results underscore that enterprises may need to broaden their AI readiness planning far beyond data centers and cloud environments. The networks connecting employees, applications, and devices are becoming just as crucial to AI success, especially as organizations move beyond generative AI pilots and begin deploying AI agents that communicate continuously with other systems and applications.

The survey found that organizations reported a 34% increase in AI-related campus and branch network traffic over the past 12 months. That figure is only the beginning: traffic is projected to climb 209% over the next three years. Companies that are broadly deploying AI expect total network traffic to triple. Despite this explosive growth, 73% of respondents already face, or expect to face, campus and branch network capacity constraints within the next two years. Moreover, 67% said AI workloads are increasing east-west traffic between internal systems and applications—a traffic pattern that traditional hub-and-spoke networks are not designed to handle efficiently.

The security implications are equally stark. A full 80% of IT leaders said AI has expanded their attack surface, and 61% reported they are delaying additional AI deployments until they gain more confidence in their security posture. These figures highlight a growing tension between the desire to adopt AI at scale and the practical challenges of securing an increasingly complex network environment. The report also noted that 85% of respondents expect moderate or significant growth in AI agent deployments over the next two years, adding further pressure to already strained network architectures.

Changing traffic patterns inside enterprise environments are causing additional pressure for network teams. “Usually, networks are designed for consistent traffic, like SaaS and CRM traffic, and there aren’t a lot of unpredictable traffic patterns,” said the head of AI strategy for global IT and network engineering operations at a large U.S. technology company who participated in the research. “Suddenly, three AI agents are trying to talk to each other and solve a problem. That is going to be a big thing … how do we support increased east-west traffic?” This question resonates across industries as AI agents—autonomous software entities that perform tasks, interact with other systems, and make decisions—become more prevalent. Traditional network designs, which often rely on centralized data centers and limited bandwidth for lateral communication, are being stretched to their limits.

Cisco defined aggressive AI adopters as organizations with broad generative AI deployments across the enterprise, but only 30% of those organizations said they are fully prepared to support projected AI growth across their networks. As a result, 93% of IT decision makers said they are accelerating network modernization efforts. This modernization push is not just about adding more bandwidth; it involves rethinking network architecture, adopting intent-based networking, implementing zero-trust security models, and investing in AI-driven network management tools. The need for real-time visibility into traffic patterns and application performance has never been greater.

The report also highlighted an observability challenge that could complicate future deployments. As employees and business units increasingly experiment with AI tools, IT organizations may not know what is actually running on their networks. “Right now, we don’t even know what the AI-driven demand is,” the AI strategy executive said. “Observability is a huge gap. There is experimentation going on all over the place, and there is no way for us to really identify if somebody is deploying some kind of service on our network, whether it is a genAI solution or an agentic solution.” This lack of visibility creates risks not only for capacity planning but also for security and compliance. Without a clear picture of which AI workloads are running, where they are hosted, and how they interact, IT teams cannot effectively manage performance, troubleshoot issues, or enforce governance policies.

Security is emerging as a barrier to AI expansion as organizations struggle to govern rapidly growing numbers of AI tools and workloads. “The issue from a security standpoint is that it’s hard to create the guardrails for every possible AI tool that your organization must use,” said the vice president of infrastructure, network, and end-user services at a U.S. retail enterprise interviewed for the report. The proliferation of AI-powered applications—from chatbots to code assistants to data analytics platforms—means that traditional perimeter-based security models are no longer adequate. Network segmentation, micro-segmentation, and continuous monitoring are becoming essential to prevent lateral movement by attackers who might exploit AI workloads. Additionally, AI systems themselves can be vectors for attacks, such as adversarial machine learning or data poisoning, requiring specialized security measures.

The AI readiness conversation has often centered on data centers, but AI applications operate where employees work, devices connect, and business processes run. That means campus and branch environments may become just as important to AI success as the infrastructure supporting AI models. For example, a manufacturing plant using AI for predictive maintenance needs a network that can handle real-time sensor data from thousands of IoT devices. A retail chain deploying AI-powered inventory management must ensure that its branch networks can support the sudden spikes in data traffic when AI agents analyze stock levels and trigger replenishment orders. Similarly, remote workers using AI collaboration tools require reliable, low-latency connections to cloud-based AI services.

The Cisco research shows that AI infrastructure planning can no longer focus only on back-end systems if enterprises expect to scale AI deployments over the next several years. Patel expressed this urgency in his statement: “Eventually there will be only two kinds of companies: those that are AI companies, and those that are irrelevant.” The survey serves as a wake-up call for IT leaders to start evaluating their campus and branch networks now, before AI traffic overwhelms them. Investments in network modernization—such as upgrading to Wi-Fi 6/7, deploying software-defined wide area networking (SD-WAN), implementing AIOps platforms for proactive monitoring, and adopting SASE frameworks for secure access—are likely to become prerequisites for successful AI adoption.

In addition to the technical challenges, the survey points to a cultural shift within IT organizations. Network teams that traditionally focused on maintaining uptime and reacting to incidents are now being asked to become strategic partners in AI initiatives. This requires new skills in data science, cloud networking, and security analytics. Many organizations are struggling to find talent with these hybrid skills, further complicating their AI journeys. The survey did not delve into the workforce implications in detail, but the pressure on IT teams is clear: they must balance day-to-day operations with the need to redesign networks for an AI-driven future.

The findings also have implications for vendors and service providers. Cisco, as the survey sponsor, is positioning itself as a leader in AI-ready networking, but the results suggest that no single vendor can address all the gaps. Enterprises will likely need a combination of hardware upgrades, software tools, and managed services to bridge the visibility, security, and capacity deficits. The emergence of AI agents—which require low-latency, high-bandwidth connections to multiple data sources—will only intensify these requirements. Organizations that fail to adapt may find themselves unable to deploy AI at scale, putting them at a competitive disadvantage.

As AI continues to transform enterprise operations, the network remains the backbone of digital transformation. The Cisco survey provides a timely reality check: while much of the AI conversation has focused on the compute and storage side, the network that connects everything is often an afterthought. For enterprises to fully realize the benefits of AI—automation, insights, efficiency—they must ensure their campus and branch networks are not a bottleneck. The next phase of AI adoption will test whether organizations can align their network strategies with their AI ambitions, and the results of that test will likely determine which companies thrive and which are left behind.

Source: Network World News

What is Gemini Nano 4?

Gemini Nano 4 is the latest iteration of Google's lightweight, on-device AI model designed to run directly on smartphones and tablets without requiring a constant internet connection. Unlike cloud-based AI services, which send data to remote servers for processing, on-device models like Gemini Nano 4 process information locally, offering faster response times, lower latency, and enhanced privacy. The model supports over 140 languages and brings improved multimodal understanding, meaning it can interpret and combine inputs such as text, images, and audio more naturally than its predecessors.

This version builds upon the strengths of Gemini Nano 2 (introduced with the Pixel 8 series in late 2023) and the subsequent Gemma family. It introduces significant upgrades in efficiency and accuracy, enabling more complex tasks to be handled entirely on-device. Google designed Nano 4 to be the engine behind what it calls Gemini Intelligence — a suite of smart features that go beyond simple text generation or image recognition to perform real-world actions.

Gemini Intelligence: A new era of task automation

On Samsung's new foldables, Gemini Nano 4 powers several Gemini Intelligence features that promise to change how users interact with their phones. One of the standout capabilities is the ability to automate routine tasks. For example, users can ask Gemini to order food from a favorite restaurant, book a table for dinner, or purchase movie tickets — all without manually opening multiple apps. The AI understands context, follows multi-step instructions, and can securely access relevant services through integrations supported by Samsung and third-party partners.

Another key feature is the updated Gemini Notebook (previously known as NotebookLM). This tool allows users to upload images, handwritten notes, PDF files, and other documents, and then transforms them into polished, structured information. Whether you're a student compiling research notes or a professional preparing a report, Gemini Notebook uses the on-device model to summarize, organize, and even generate content based on your provided materials. Because processing happens locally, sensitive data never leaves the device, addressing common privacy concerns associated with cloud-based alternatives.

Additional Gemini Intelligence features are set to roll out in the coming weeks. The upcoming "Create My Widget" feature will let users design custom home screen widgets directly through a conversational interface with Gemini. The AI will interpret the user's request — for example, "make a widget showing today's weather and my calendar" — and generate a functional widget on the spot. Similarly, Gboard's "Rambler" dictation mode will allow users to speak in a free-form, rambling manner and have the AI automatically rewrite the transcription into coherent, well-structured notes. This feature is particularly useful for brainstorming sessions, meetings, or voice journaling.

Multilingual and multimodal advances

One of the most technically impressive aspects of Gemini Nano 4 is its support for 140 languages. This is a notable expansion from previous versions, which initially launched with support for only a handful of languages. The multilingual capability enables users around the world to access on-device AI in their native tongue, reducing language barriers. Furthermore, the improved multimodal understanding means the model can now process and combine different types of data simultaneously. For instance, you could take a photo of a restaurant menu, say "find the cheapest option" out loud, and have Gemini analyze the prices and highlight the best deal — all on-device.

This leap in multimodal processing is crucial for tasks like visual question answering, document analysis, and accessibility features. The model can read text from images, understand charts and graphs, and even recognize objects in real-time video. Such capabilities open doors for new applications in education, healthcare, and daily productivity.

The devices that bring it to life

Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra, Z Fold 8, and Z Flip 8 serve as the launch vehicles for Gemini Nano 4. The Z Fold 8 Ultra is the company's flagship book-style foldable, featuring a 7.6-inch inner display, a slimmer design than its predecessor, a 5,000mAh battery, 45W fast charging, and a camera system borrowed from the Galaxy S26 Ultra. The Z Fold 8 adopts a wider aspect ratio for a more traditional smartphone feel in the folded state, with a lighter body, dual 50MP cameras, and a price point that makes it more accessible. The Z Flip 8 continues the clamshell design, now with a 4,300mAh battery, a larger FlexWindow supporting more apps, and a thinner, lighter profile.

All three devices run on the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor, which provides the necessary neural processing power to run Gemini Nano 4 efficiently. Samsung and Google worked closely to optimize the software stack, ensuring that the AI model integrates seamlessly with One UI and Android 17. Users can access Gemini Intelligence through a dedicated button or voice command, and the system intelligently decides whether to handle requests on-device or escalate to cloud-based Gemini when needed for more complex queries.

Background and industry impact

The arrival of Gemini Nano 4 on Samsung's foldables underscores a broader industry trend: the shift toward on-device AI as a core smartphone feature. Apple's recent integration of Apple Intelligence with iOS 19 and the ongoing development of Qualcomm's AI Engine all point to a future where phones are not just communication tools but intelligent assistants capable of understanding and acting upon the world.

For Google, partnering with Samsung — the world's largest Android phone maker — is a strategic move to expand the reach of its AI models. Earlier Gemini Nano versions were limited to Google Pixel devices, but with Samsung on board, the user base for on-device AI expands dramatically. This collaboration also benefits developers, who can now target Gemini Nano 4 through the AI Edge SDK and create apps that leverage local AI for things like smart replies, photo editing, and real-time translation.

The 140-language support is particularly noteworthy for emerging markets where cloud connectivity may be unreliable. On-device AI can operate offline, making advanced features accessible to more people. Additionally, because data stays on the phone, privacy-conscious users can embrace AI without fear of their information being stored on remote servers.

Looking at the competitive landscape, Samsung and Google are pushing the envelope faster than ever. The ability to automate real-world tasks — like ordering food or booking tickets — directly from a voice command is a significant step beyond simple Q&A bots. While some of these actions require backend integrations, the intelligence for reasoning and decision-making happens on the phone.

As more Gemini Intelligence features like "Create My Widget" and Gboard's "Rambler" become available, users will see their foldables evolve into even more capable productivity tools. Pre-orders for the Galaxy Z Fold 8 series are open now, with general sales starting August 7. The coming months will likely reveal how well Gemini Nano 4 performs in real-world usage and whether it can live up to the high expectations set by Google and Samsung.

Source: Android Authority News