Brazil elections: Lula, Bolsonaro face-off in first debate ahead of Presidential runoff

Economic Times - Oct 18, 2026

Brazil's presidential election runoff includes a crucial debate between President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and Senator Flavio Bolsonaro. Lula's campaign has shifted, engaging younger influencers for improved social media strategies to connect with voters. Bolsonaro has criticized Lula's promises, accusing him of deceiving people for electoral gain. Recent polls show a tightening race, and both candidates are ramping up their efforts.

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12 dead, several injured as truck runs over devotees near Gwalior's Sheetla Mata temple in Madhya Pradesh
Oct 18, 2026
12 dead, several injured as truck runs over devotees near Gwalior's Sheetla Mata temple in Madhya Pradesh

At approximately 1:30 AM, a truck lost control while approaching the Sheetla Mata Temple in Gwalior. The vehicle broke through police barricades and collided with gathered devotees, causing widespread chaos and injury. Tragically, 12 people were reported dead, with several others sustaining serious injuries. Authorities have launched an investigation into how the truck bypassed safety measures in place during Navratri.

12 dead, several injured as truck runs over devotees near Gwalior's Sheetla Mata temple in Madhya Pradesh
Oct 18, 2026
12 dead, several injured as truck runs over devotees near Gwalior's Sheetla Mata temple in Madhya Pradesh

At approximately 1:30 AM, a truck lost control while approaching the Sheetla Mata Temple in Gwalior. The vehicle broke through police barricades and collided with gathered devotees, causing widespread chaos and injury. Tragically, 12 people were reported dead, with several others sustaining serious injuries. Authorities have launched an investigation into how the truck bypassed safety measures in place during Navratri.

US military says Hormuz remains open, 97% of ships cross safely despite Iran attacks
Oct 18, 2026
US military says Hormuz remains open, 97% of ships cross safely despite Iran attacks

The US military claims that 97% of vessels have transited the Strait of Hormuz safely. This follows recent incidents where Iranian projectiles targeted commercial vessels in the area. CENTCOM reported that US forces and regional partners are enhancing maritime security to ensure uninterrupted commerce. Additionally, Iran's economy is reportedly under strain due to US actions. Both the US and Iran assert their control over this strategic shipping route.

Vehicle drives through soccer field during game in Kansas, killing 2 & injuring more
Oct 18, 2026
Vehicle drives through soccer field during game in Kansas, killing 2 & injuring more

Kansas Soccer field crash: During a soccer game in Wichita, Kansas, a vehicle drove onto the field, causing chaos and injuries. Tragically, two people, including a child, lost their lives in the incident. Multiple other victims were transported to hospitals for treatment following the event. The police have detained the driver, but details about the motive remain unclear. Mayor Lily Wu expressed her condolences on social media for those affected by this heartbreaking situation.

How land power could help US forces counter China in the Indo-Pacific
Oct 18, 2026
How land power could help US forces counter China in the Indo-Pacific

Senior US commanders have highlighted the importance of land-based troops and equipment stationed in the Asia-Pacific in any conflict with China, countering assumptions that such a war would be fought mainly at sea and in the air. General Ron Clark, commander of US Army Pacific, said the “tyranny of distance” made it difficult to rely on air and naval forces during a panel discussion at the Association of the United States Army’s annual meeting this week. The comments reflect mounting concerns...

Israeli settlers attack Palestinians, European diplomats in West Bank
Oct 18, 2026
Israeli settlers attack Palestinians, European diplomats in West Bank

Israeli settlers attacked Palestinians and European diplomats during an olive harvest in the West Bank. Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prevot reported the incident and emphasized the need for accountability. Belgian consul general, along with French and Polish diplomats, were among those targeted. Settler violence against Palestinians has reportedly surged over the past few years. Israeli police have opened an investigation, although prosecutions of such violence are rare.

19 killed, 25 injured in Kolkata Durga Puja stampede, Bengal orders safety checks at pandals
Oct 18, 2026
19 killed, 25 injured in Kolkata Durga Puja stampede, Bengal orders safety checks at pandals

Kolkata Durga Puja pandal stampede: A tragic stampede at Chorbagan Sarbojanin Durga Puja pandal in Kolkata led to 19 deaths and 25 injuries. Following the incident, the West Bengal government ordered safety inspections for major puja venues. Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced a high-level committee to review safety recommendations and crowd management. Organisers have been instructed to enhance visitor safety during the ongoing Durga Puja celebrations.

19 killed, 25 injured in Kolkata Durga Puja stampede, Bengal orders safety checks at pandals
Oct 18, 2026
19 killed, 25 injured in Kolkata Durga Puja stampede, Bengal orders safety checks at pandals

Kolkata Durga Puja pandal stampede: A tragic stampede at Chorbagan Sarbojanin Durga Puja pandal in Kolkata led to 19 deaths and 25 injuries. Following the incident, the West Bengal government ordered safety inspections for major puja venues. Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari announced a high-level committee to review safety recommendations and crowd management. Organisers have been instructed to enhance visitor safety during the ongoing Durga Puja celebrations.

Kansas Soccer game tragedy: 2 killed, multiple persons hospitalized after person drives vehicle through football field
Oct 17, 2026
Kansas Soccer game tragedy: 2 killed, multiple persons hospitalized after person drives vehicle through football field

Kansas Soccer game tragedy: Police said the driver was in custody but did not give further details about the person or say whether they believe it was intentional.

Christmas cheer, but caution remains: Exporters welcome US tariff relief, keep diversification plans
Oct 17, 2026
Christmas cheer, but caution remains: Exporters welcome US tariff relief, keep diversification plans

US President Donald Trump’s decision to waive proposed tariffs of up to 100% on buyers of Russian oil has eased uncertainty for Indian exporters ahead of the crucial Christmas shipping season. However, businesses across textiles, gems and jewellery, and human hair products say they will continue diversifying export markets after last year’s tariff turmoil, even as the US remains a key destination for Indian goods.

Beyond EVs and perception, how China is gaining ground in Central Asia
Oct 17, 2026
Beyond EVs and perception, how China is gaining ground in Central Asia

In Kazakhstan’s futuristic capital Astana, car dealer Auyez Kabdygali is planning a big change to his business as he switches from importing European cars to Chinese electric vehicles. Kabdygali says there is increasing demand for Chinese EVs both from locals and Russian customers due to their competitive price and quality. His grandfather is among the converts – he has an order in for a BYD Han, the carmaker’s flagship model, and plans to collect it from a terminal on the border with China and...

The Universe has a test for 3 Zodiac Signs on Sunday but they may already know the answer: Here's how Uranus retrograde may influence your decision
Oct 17, 2026
The Universe has a test for 3 Zodiac Signs on Sunday but they may already know the answer: Here's how Uranus retrograde may influence your decision

If you are feeling annoyed because your past challenges have resurfaced again, then it is not your fault. You are going through a cosmic test which is going to empower you once you handle the issue with confidence.

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